Here’s how we make lending work for
self-employed Kiwis
Your income isn’t one-size-fits-all — your loan shouldn’t be either.
Tailored for sole traders, contractors, and directors
Whether you pay yourself through drawings, dividends, or PAYE — we’ll help structure a deal that fits your real income flow.
Alt-doc loans designed for real-life income
We work with lenders who accept GST returns, bank statements, accountant letters, and more — no full financials needed in many cases.
We position your income to show strength
We know how to present your financials so lenders see what you’re really earning — not just the surface numbers.
No judgement, no lectures — just good advice
Even if your tax returns are behind, your accounts are messy, or cashflow’s up and down — we’ll work through it with you and build a plan.
FAQs about getting a loan when you’re self-employed
Do I need full financial statements to apply?
Not always. Many non-bank lenders accept alternative documentation (alt-doc) — like bank statements, GST returns, or accountant declarations — especially if you’ve been trading for at least 6–12 months. We’ll assess what’s acceptable for your situation before applying.
Can I borrow if my income is irregular or seasonal?
Yes — as long as we can show overall affordability and explain the pattern. We often work with clients in industries like construction, design, and hospitality where income naturally varies month to month.
What can I do to strengthen my application?
Stay on top of tax returns, manage expenses well, and keep clear income records — but don’t stress if things aren’t perfect. We’ll help you present your case in the best light and advise what to tidy up if needed.
Self-employed and need lending that actually fits?
Book a free, no-pressure chat with a Luminate adviser who gets business — not just banking. We’ll explain your options, work with your accountant if needed, and help you get it done.
We work with trusted bank and non-bank lenders
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Read, watch & listen to insights
First Home
Buyers Guide
Development
Finance Guide
Bridging Finance
Made Simple
Self Employed
Borrowing Guide
Investors
Memorandum
What our clients are saying
We needed funding within days to secure a development site. The banks said no—Luminate said yes. Funds landed within 48 hours and we didn’t miss the deal.
Mike T.
As a self-employed couple, we were getting knocked back left and right. Luminate understood our situation and structured a mortgage that worked. Game-changer.
Andrea & Tim D.
My bank gave me the runaround for months. Luminate had my loan approved in a week—even with a tricky credit history. Can’t thank them enough.
Lucy M.
Trent and Farea - you rocked it :). It was the easiest and the best first home mortgage advice/transaction we have ever had. Farea Khan went above and beyond.
Jashnil K.
We contacted them with the feeling was “give it a try, but no hope”. And now we are sitting on our couch in our living room in our new house and waiting for Christmas.
Marita H.
Total rock stars and know the financing game inside out - extreme professionalism, high level contacts, and a true understanding of the numbers.
Kesh M.
Our specialist lending solutions
Bridging & short-term loans
Buy before you sell, fund urgent settlements, or keep your project on track. We move fast — with lenders who specialise in time-sensitive funding.
Second mortgages & debt consolidation
Top up your lending without disturbing your main home loan. A second mortgage can unlock equity for renovations, business cashflow, or simplify multiple debts into one.
Low deposit or credit challenges
Been told no by the bank? That’s not the end of the road. We help first-time buyers and existing homeowners access finance with as little as 5–10% deposit — even with past credit hiccups.
