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How lenders calculate usable equity — and why it's less than you think

Apr 15, 2026

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5 min read

How lenders calculate usable equity — and why it's less than you think

Total equity and usable equity are not the same number. This guide explains how the 80% LVR limit works, how lenders calculate the equity you can actually access, and why serviceability is a separate step that matters just as much.

Josh Stewart
Josh Stewart
What Two Rate Rises in a Row Actually Do to Borrowing Capacity

Apr 15, 2026

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5 min read

What Two Rate Rises in a Row Actually Do to Borrowing Capacity

A pre-approval from mid-2025 reflects a different assessment environment to the one borrowers are in now. Understanding what changed — and by how much — matters before relying on an older figure to make a purchase decision.

Josh Stewart
Josh Stewart
Why Rising Property Values Don't Increase Your Borrowing Capacity

Apr 15, 2026

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4 min read

Why Rising Property Values Don't Increase Your Borrowing Capacity

Regional property values have risen sharply across Australia. But borrowing capacity is assessed on income and serviceability — not on what the market is doing. Here's what that means in practice.

Josh Stewart
Josh Stewart
APRA DTI Cap Explained: What It Means for Property Investors in 2026

Apr 15, 2026

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4 min read

APRA DTI Cap Explained: What It Means for Property Investors in 2026

The APRA DTI cap limits lenders on high-ratio mortgages — and the effect on property investors is showing up in how applications are handled, not just whether they're approved. Here's what's actually happening.

Josh Stewart
Josh Stewart
Why Waiting to Refinance Can Close the Window — Even When Nothing Has Changed

Apr 15, 2026

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6 min read

Why Waiting to Refinance Can Close the Window — Even When Nothing Has Changed

How rising assessment rates affect serviceability for variable rate borrowers — and why timing a review matters more than most people realise

Josh Stewart
Josh Stewart

Lending Notes

Practical notes from Value Lending on how lending decisions are made, how loans are assessed, and what to expect as conditions change.

© 2026 Value Lending.
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