If you’ve tried to secure an investment loan through a major bank branch this month, you may have noticed the door starting to close.

As we enter 2026, a “perfect storm” of regulatory changes and shifting bank risk appetites is fundamentally changing how Australians access credit. For many, the traditional path of walking into a local branch is no longer enough to secure a “Yes.”

The Rise of “Complex-Prime”

Australia’s housing market is evolving, and so is the definition of a “standard” borrower. With the rise of the self-employed, trust-based investment structures, and SMSF portfolios, “complex” is the new normal. While major banks are retreating from these structures to simplify their balance sheets, mortgage brokers are stepping in to provide the specialized expertise needed to navigate this diverse market.

Why the 77.3% Milestone Matters

For the first time in history, nearly 8 out of 10 Australians are choosing a broker over a bank. The reason is simple: Choice and Protection.

• Legally on Your Side: Unlike bank employees, brokers are bound by the Best Interests Duty (BID), a legal requirement to put your financial goals first.

• Access Beyond the “Big Four”: As majors tighten their criteria, non-bank lenders are filling the gap with more flexible solutions for self-employed and high-LVR borrowers.

Preparing for February 1st

With APRA’s new DTI limits taking effect on February 1st, borrowing capacity is about to become more sensitive than ever. Now is the time to be proactive. Whether you are looking to unlock equity or secure your first home before the next RBA meeting, the smartest move in 2026 is to work with an expert who sees the whole market.