In this episode of Talk Property To Me, hosts Brad East and Aaron Downie break down what banks really look at when approving a home loan in Australia — and why having a big deposit alone is no longer enough. If you're planning to buy a home in 2025 or 2026, this episode is essential viewing. We explain how lenders assess your spending habits, credit score, borrowing power, and financial behaviour, and why so many buyers are shocked when their loan is rejected. In this episode, we cover: Why banks rely on the Household Expenditure Measure (HEM) How your spending habits impact borrowing capacity Why credit behaviour matters more than your deposit The hidden impact of credit cards & Buy Now Pay Later How loan enquiries can damage your credit score Why speaking to a mortgage broker can dramatically improve approval odds Whether you're a first home buyer, upgrading, or planning your next investment, this episode will help you avoid costly mistakes and understand how lenders really think. 🔍 Key Topics Covered ✔️ Mortgage approval process in Australia ✔️ Credit score requirements explained ✔️ Borrowing power & household expenses ✔️ Why banks reject home loans ✔️ How to improve your loan approval chances