The Challenge
Legal income is highly variable: partnership structures, contingency fees, billable hours, and solo practice all present unique challenges to traditional lenders. Here's how specialist lenders value your earning capacity across different practice structures.
Real Examples: How Specialist Lenders See It
Law Firm Partner
Income: $250k draw + $150k average profit share
Home Value: $950k home
Result: Tax return shows $400k but with variability. Specialist: partnership agreement + performance history, approved $1.1M
Solo Practitioner
Income: $280k/year from private clients, variable client base
Home Value: $650k home
Result: Income varies 20% year-to-year. Specialist: 2-year average + client retention history, approved $750k
Associate with Bonus Structure
Income: $120k salary + $80k bonus (5 years history)
Home Value: $600k home
Result: Traditional bank: 'Bonus is discretionary.' Specialist: payment history + employment contract, counted full amount, approved $720k
How to Get Approved
- Gather documentation specific to your income structure (not just tax returns)
- Find a specialist lender who understands your profession
- Present your income optimally—showing gross, net, projections, and add-backs
- Work with a broker who can match you with the right lender first time
Get Your Free Assessment
Tell us your income structure and we'll show you exactly how much you can borrow—and which lenders will approve you.
Call 0432 634 648 — Free AssessmentNo obligation. No broker fees.