Home loans for single buyers vs. Couples: what you need to know

Buying your own home is a big step, whether you are doing it solo or teaming up with someone. Both routes can lead to a place you are proud to call home, but the path you take influences how the loan works, how much you can borrow and what responsibilities you will carry. At SA Home Loans, we help both single buyers and couples find their best fit. Let’s walk through how each option stacks up so you can make a confident decision.

Buying a home on your own

Pros:

• You have full ownership and control; the decisions are yours.
• You may move faster without needing to align with another person’s financial or lifestyle choices.
• The property is entirely yours, so you set the tone of homeownership.

Considerations:

• Your borrowing power depends solely on your income and affordability.
• Repayments should not exceed 30% of your gross monthly income.
• Credit history, job stability and existing financial commitments are assessed individually.
• With one income, you may qualify for a smaller loan, so consider a more affordable home or longer term to keep repayments manageable.

Tips for this route:

• Use our Affordability Calculator to get an estimate of what you can borrow.
• Make sure your credit profile is well managed : payment history, low other debt, solid employment.
• Consider home loan products designed for flexibility. If you find your income will stretch, a longer term or a product with lower starting instalments may help.

Buying a home as a couple

Pros:

• With two incomes combined, you often qualify for a larger loan, meaning more buying power. Using joint gross household income increases affordability. 
• Shared responsibility for the loan, the home’s upkeep and finances can make things more manageable.
• Potential to save quicker for deposits, access better loan terms or faster accumulation of equity.

Considerations:

• Both applicants’ credit histories and financial profiles are assessed. A weaker profile by either partner can affect the outcome. 
• Applying jointly means both parties are jointly and severally liable. The responsibility lies with both parties, regardless of whose account is used as the debit order account or who has a salary stop order to service the bond. 
• You will want to be aligned on goals, therefor, the property is jointly owned, and decisions (selling, upgrading) typically are mutual.
• If you are married in community of property, assets/liabilities are merged, and this may affect how the bond application is managed.

Tips for this route:

• Have open conversations about income, credit and long-term goals before you apply.
• Consider drafting a simple co-ownership agreement (especially for unmarried couples) to clarify responsibilities, exits and what happens if things change.
• Speak to one of our specialist consultants to explore the best product option for joint applicants and ensure both of you meet the criteria.

How SA Home Loans supports every buyer type

At SA Home Loans, we understand that every buyer’s journey is unique. That is why we offer tailored products for both individuals and joint applicants, along with easy tools to check affordability. Our team provides clear guidance on documentation and expert support every step of the way — helping you feel confident from application to approval.

Next steps

Whether you are buying alone or as a couple, understanding the differences in how your home loan will work is key. A solo purchase offers full control, while a joint purchase often boosts affordability. With SA Home Loans on your side, you will have the guidance, tools and tailored solutions you need — whichever path you choose. Let us get you home.

Contact our team on 0860 2 4 6 8 10 or request a call back today.