By Jason Given · April 2026 · 6 min read
The solo buyer reality
Buying on a single income is harder than buying as a couple - that is just maths. One income means lower borrowing capacity and a single source of repayment risk. But harder does not mean impossible, and Adelaide is one of the most accessible capital city markets for solo buyers in Australia.
The key is understanding exactly where you stand, which government support applies to you, and which lenders will give you the best borrowing capacity on your specific income profile.
Government support for solo buyers
Every first home buyer scheme in SA is available to single applicants. The First Home Guarantee allows purchase with a 5% deposit and no LMI - with no income cap since October 2025. Single parents with dependents can access the Single Parent Stream (the Family Home Guarantee) with just 2% deposit.
For new builds, the $15,000 First Home Owner Grant and zero stamp duty dramatically reduce upfront costs - potentially saving a solo buyer $25,000+ in entry costs.
Maximising your borrowing on one income
Lender selection matters enormously for single-income buyers. The difference between the most and least generous lender can be substantial. We test your application across 60+ lenders to find the lender that maximises your capacity while keeping the rate competitive.
Buying solo? Book a chat - we specialise in getting the best result for single-income buyers and will show you exactly what you can achieve.
Sources: RevenueSA (First Home Owner Grant) · Housing Australia (First Home Guarantee). Information current as at October 2026 - confirm details with Lendology or the relevant body before making decisions.
Frequently asked questions
How much can I borrow on one income?
There is no single answer. Your capacity depends on your income, debts, dependants, any HELP repayments and each lender's assessment rate (your loan rate plus at least 3 percentage points). Lenders assess the same income differently, so the gap between the most and least generous can be significant - Lendology can show what your income supports across 60+ lenders and find the one that gives you the best result.
What suburbs can I afford on a single income?
That depends on what a lender will approve for your income plus the deposit you have saved. Solo buyers in Adelaide most often land in the outer south and north - suburbs like Morphett Vale, Hallett Cove, Noarlunga and Lonsdale - where entry prices sit well below the city median. With the First Home Guarantee reducing the deposit requirement to 5%, your savings go further and can open more options. A pre-approval tells you the exact price range to search in.
Get a fully assessed pre-approval before you make an offer
We assess your full file against lender policy before you start making offers, so there are no surprises later. Leave your details and Jason or Steve will reply within one business day.
Rather talk it through? Book a free 15 minute call with Jason or ring 08 8270 5138.