Loan to Value Ratio Calculator

The Loan to Value Ratio (LVR) calculator helps you estimate how much you can borrow for your home loan based on your property’s value.

Understanding your Loan-to-Value Ratio (LVR) is crucial when you're looking to buy a home or refinance. This simple measure shows how much you owe on your home compared to its current value. By grasping LVR, you can make informed decisions about your home loan and improve your chances of securing a better interest rate.

Key Takeaways

  • The Loan-to-Value Ratio (LVR) is a key measure lenders use to assess the risk level of your loan application.
  • A lower LVR may give you access to better interest rates, saving you money over time.
  • To calculate your LVR, simply divide your loan amount by your property's value. An online calculator can make this easier.
  • Managing your LVR is like paying down your mortgage or boosting your property value to help secure better loan options.
  • Navigate home loans with AI-driven insights from Bheja.ai. Compare 100+ brands, get proactive alerts, and make smarter financial decisions easily.

Understanding Loan to Value Ratio (LVR)

What is LVR?

Loan-to-Value Ratio (LVR) is a financial term used to assess the risk of lending for real estate. It’s calculated by dividing the loan amount by the property's appraised value, then multiplying by 100 to get a percentage. For instance, if you’re purchasing a house worth $500,000 and you’re borrowing $400,000, your LVR would be 80% ($400,000 ÷ $500,000 x 100).

Why Does LVR Matter?

Knowing your LVR is crucial when applying for a mortgage. Lenders analyse your LVR to determine the risk associated with your loan. A high LVR indicates a greater risk, as it means you're borrowing a large percentage of the property's value. This affects not just the approval of your loan but also the interest rates you might be offered. Generally, lower LVR ratios are viewed more favourably, as they suggest you have more equity in the property.

How to use a Loan-to-Value Ratio calculator?

Calculating your LVR is quick with a Loan-to-Value Ratio Calculator. Here’s how to use one:

Step 1: Gather Your Information

Start by gathering details about the loan amount and the property’s value. Ensure the numbers are accurate to get an exact LVR percentage.

Step 2: Adjust prompt

We have the most used prompts listed. You need to click the prompt closest to your needs and adjust it accordingly.

Step 3: Click on Ask Bheja

Follow the conversation with Bheja.ai and provide information to personalise your result.

Step 4: Analyse the Result

Once you have your LVR, reflect on its implications.

  • Low LVR (below 80%): Generally seen as low risk. You may qualify for better interest rates and conditions.
  • Moderate LVR (between 80% and 90%): May require Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI) and likely higher interest rates.
  • High LVR (above 90%): Suggests higher risk, often leading to more challenging loan approvals and the highest costs.

How Lenders Interpret LVR Statistics

Lenders use your LVR to gauge your financial stability. Here’s how different LVR ratios can affect your mortgage:

Low LVR Ratios

With a low LVR ratio, lenders typically see you as a safer borrower. You might enjoy advantages such as:

  • Lower interest rates.
  • Fewer fees, such as LMI.
  • Better overall loan conditions.

Moderate to High LVR Ratios

Alternatively, a moderate to high LVR ratio signifies more risk. As a result, you might encounter:

  • Higher interest rates to offset that risk.
  • Requirement to pay LMI, which can add to your upfront costs.
  • Limitations in your borrowing capacity.

Understanding how lenders perceive LVR helps you strategise better for your home loan application.

Tips for Managing Your LVR

Balancing your Loan-to-Value Ratio is essential for securing loan approvals and for strategically refinancing down the line. Here are some actionable tips:

1. Prospective home buyers

If you're looking to buy, consider saving for a larger deposit. Aiming for a deposit of at least 20% can help you avoid LMI and secure lower rates.

2. Current homeowners refinancing

If you currently own a home and seek to refinance, consider the following:

  • Increase Property Value: Undertake renovations or improvements to boost your property’s market value. This helps lower your LVR when refinancing.
  • Reduce Debt: Pay down your existing mortgage or other loans. Every dollar counts toward your loan amount, improving your LVR.

3. Regular monitoring

Periodic checks of your property's value and your loan balance can keep you informed about your current LVR. Use resources like ASIC’s MoneySmart for insights into managing debt and making informed financial decisions.

4. Leveraging information and tools

Explore various financial tools to better understand your financial landscape. Websites like Canstar offer comparisons of home loans, helping you make informed choices about your mortgage options.

Additional Resources

Educating yourself about mortgage processes can significantly affect your financing journey.

  • For a deep dive into the importance of LTV in home loans in Australia, you can check this insightful article.
  • If you're considering refinancing but worried about declining property values, click here for more information.
  • Explore cashback home loan options to potentially save money on your new loan through this link.
  • You can visit all other mortgage calculator hub.

With your LVR knowledge and these tips, you're better equipped to navigate the home loan landscape and make the most informed financial decisions possible.

Frequently Asked Questions


The Loan-to-Value Ratio is a percentage that compares the amount you borrow to the value of your property. It’s calculated by dividing your loan amount by the property’s value. For example, if you’re borrowing $400,000 for a property worth $500,000, your LVR is 80%.