I hope I get this right (DH is out ATM)... There are lots of tricks to the trade if you know them but especially since the GFC the climate has changed somewhat and lots of these loop holes have been closed eg the "Low Doc" and even "No Doc" loans. 60% of gross income is too high unless you are have a private banker which means you are a high net worth customer. DH mentioned that 30% - %40 is the figure most banks work with. DH is a fairly "aggressive" lender ie he will really go in to bat for his clients... most lenders take a very conservative approach especially since the GFC like I mentioned. Of course DH works as a private banker now and things may be different in branch-land. Please don't hesitate to give us a call or even drop over for a cuppa, and DH will give you the low down from the perspective of lending through the "Big Four".