Your eyes are on the perfect home, your deposit is ready and now you just need the bank’s stamp of approval.

But wait, there’s this thing called the Household Expenditure Measure (HEM) lurking in the background.

WHAT IS IT, AND HOW MIGHT IT RAIN ON YOUR HOMEOWNERSHIP PARADE?

HEM – It’s similar to your financial yardstick

Think of HEM as a financial measuring stick for different types of households. Developed by the Melbourne Institute, it uses Australian Bureau of Statistics data to estimate the average amount of money spent on basic living expenses (but excluding rent/mortgage).

Lenders compare this benchmark to your actual spending habits to gauge if you can handle the loan you’re seeking.

HEM isn’t a ‘ONE SIZE FITS ALL SOLUTION’

HEM is an average, and your spending could easily fall above or below it.

Don’t get stressed though – lenders don’t rely solely on HEM.

They’ll dig into your bank statements, compare the data and usually use the higher figure for their calculations. It’sPicture this…

Your eyes are on the perfect home, your deposit is ready and now you just need the bank’s stamp of approval.

But wait, there’s this thing called the Household Expenditure Measure (HEM) lurking in the background.

WHAT IS IT, AND HOW MIGHT IT RAIN ON YOUR HOMEOWNERSHIP PARADE?

HEM – It’s similar to your financial yardstick

Think of HEM as a financial measuring stick for different types of households. Developed by the Melbourne Institute, it uses Australian Bureau of Statistics data to estimate the average amount of money spent on basic living expenses (but excluding rent/mortgage).

Lenders compare this benchmark to your actual spending habits to gauge if you can handle the loan you’re seeking.

HEM isn’t a ‘ONE SIZE FITS ALL SOLUTION’

HEM is an average, and your spending could easily fall above or below it.

Don’t get stressed though – lenders don’t rely solely on HEM.

They’ll dig into your bank statements, compare the data and usually use the higher figure for their calculations. It’s

all about ensuring you’re not financially stretched too thin after acquiring that mortgage.

TOP HEM TIPS TO BOOST YOUR BORROWING POWER

Want to make HEM your friend?

Here are the steps a savvy home loan applicant should take:

Know your spending
Before applying, review your bank statements. Note any big, one off expenses (emergency dental work etc). By explaining these, you avoid artificially inflating your typical monthly costs.
It’s for your protection
It might feel intrusive, but this deep dive into your spending is done for everyone. Lenders want to safeguard you from taking on a loan you can’t comfortably repay.
Get expert help
As your home loan specialist we know exactly what to highlight in your statements to make the HEM process smoother. We are your allies in securing that loan.

THE FINE PRINT

It’s important to understand HEM’s limitations:

No fancy items
HEM focuses on absolute and discretionary basics (food, utilities, some entertainment).
It doesn’t include private school fees, life insurance, super contributions, owners’ corp fees etc.
Not all expenses count
Unlike living expenses calculators, HEM is purely a statistical benchmark for lenders, not a personal budget tool.

Your financial story

HEM is just one piece of your home loan puzzle.
Lenders also look at income, debt, credit history and many other factors.
Your financial habits matter.

Live within your means
Save diligently
Tackle existing debt

That’s what makes the lenders say “yes” more often.

Disclaimer: This article provides general information only and has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. We recommend that you consider whether it is appropriate for your circumstances. Your full financial situation will need to be reviewed prior to acceptance of any offer or product. It does not constitute legal, tax or financial advice and you should always seek professional advice in relation to your individual circumstances. ©2024