In Australia, the allure of homeownership remains a significant aspiration for many, but the path to securing a mortgage can be difficult for some.

With the rise in popularity of of buy-now-pay-later (BNPL) services like Afterpay reshaping spending habits, it’s crucial to understand how these platforms can influence an individual’s borrowing power when it comes to obtaining a home loan.

Afterpay has surged in popularity across Australia, offering a convenient alternative to traditional credit cards by allowing users to split purchases into interest-free instalments. However, while Afterpay may seem like a harmless tool for managing discretionary spending, its implications on borrowing power can be significant, particularly in the context of securing a home loan.

When individuals sign up for Afterpay, the service typically conducts a credit check, albeit a soft enquiry, to assess the applicant’s creditworthiness. While this check doesn’t have a substantial impact on credit scores, it still registers on the credit report. Consistent and timely payments with Afterpay can demonstrate responsible financial behaviour and potentially boost credit scores. However, missed payments or defaults could have adverse effects, potentially lowering credit scores and raising concerns for lenders when assessing mortgage applications.

Australian lenders prioritise the assessment of debt serviceability when evaluating mortgage applications. This involves analysing an applicant’s ability to meet their financial obligations, including mortgage repayments, based on their income and existing debts. While Afterpay debt might not carry the same weight as traditional loans, it still factors into the overall debt equation. Lenders consider the total debt burden, including Afterpay balances, when determining an individual’s borrowing capacity. High Afterpay usage could reduce the amount a lender is willing to extend for a home loan, impacting the borrower’s purchasing power.

In recent years, Australian regulators have heightened their focus on responsible lending practices to ensure borrowers can comfortably manage their financial commitments. Lenders are required to conduct thorough assessments of borrowers’ financial circumstances, including their spending habits and existing debts, to mitigate the risk of loan defaults. Consequently, heavy reliance on Afterpay or other BNPL services could raise red flags during the lending process, prompting lenders to scrutinize applicants more closely or offer reduced loan amounts to mitigate perceived risk.

For individuals navigating the intersection of Afterpay and home loan applications in Australia, proactive measures can help mitigate its impact on borrowing power:

• Regularly review credit reports to ensure accuracy and address any discrepancies promptly.
• Keep Afterpay balances low and prioritise timely repayments to maintain a positive credit profile.
• Pay down Afterpay balances and other debts to improve debt-to-income ratios and enhance borrowing capacity.
• Consult with a mortgage broker who can provide personalised advice and guidance tailored to individual financial circumstances.

While Afterpay offers convenience and flexibility in managing short-term expenses, its implications on borrowing power in the Australian home loan market should not be overlooked. Aspiring homeowners must be mindful of their Afterpay usage and its potential impact on creditworthiness and debt serviceability when seeking mortgage financing. By adopting responsible financial habits and understanding how Afterpay factors into the lending equation, individuals can navigate the path to homeownership with greater confidence and success in the housing market.