THE PROPERTY NERDS: How an LMI waiver could save investors $20k and wipe years off their investment journey

In this episode of The Property Nerds, co-hosts Arjun Paliwal and Adrian Lee from InvestorKit, and Jack Fouracre from Fouracre Financial, unpack the often-overlooked world of Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI) – and the surprising ways investors can avoid it altogether.

The trio demystifies LMI, typically required when buyers have less than a 20 per cent deposit, and reveals how select professions can borrow up to 95 per cent of a property’s value without paying a cent in LMI. From doctors and lawyers to pilots, train drivers, and even media personalities, a wide range of Australians could be eligible for these little-known waivers, potentially saving $12,000 to $20,000 on a $600,000 purchase.

But the conversation goes deeper. Adrian breaks down the opportunity cost of waiting to save a full deposit, showing how a two-year delay could cost investors $60,000 in capital growth. Instead, entering the market earlier, even with LMI, can fast-track wealth creation.

The episode also explores government-backed schemes for first home buyers, single parents, and guarantor loans that allow borrowers to access up to 107 per cent of the purchase price, covering costs like stamp duty and buyer’s agent fees.

Rounding out the episode is a discussion on trust structures, how they can preserve borrowing power, and create tax efficiencies for serious investors.

With expert guidance, strategic financing, and a clear understanding of LMI, Australian property buyers can sidestep unnecessary costs and accelerate their portfolio growth.