What Is A Company Title Property?
A company title is an older form of property ownership that was commonly used before strata title became standard in the 1960s.
Instead of owning the property directly, you own shares in a company. Those shares give you the right to occupy a specific unit.
This ownership structure affects how the property is managed and financed. As a result:
- You don’t hold a traditional Certificate of Title
- The company owns the building
- Other shareholders (owners) often have a say in decisions like selling, leasing or mortgaging the property
How Much Can You Borrow For A Company Title Mortgage?
- First home buyer: 85% of the property value.
- Investor: 85% of the property value.
- Guarantor mortgage: 100% of the property value plus costs.
- Low doc: 60% of the property value (80% is available if you have BAS statements to support your income).
- Discounts: Competitive professional package interest rates available.
Do you need help to finance your purchase?
Please call us on 1300 889 743 or enquire online.
One of our mortgage brokers will call you to let you know if you qualify for a company title mortgage.
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View Program DetailsAre Small Company Title Blocks Harder To Finance?
Recently, some banks have had trouble registering their charge over the shares in the company for small blocks of units.
For this reason, some lenders have adopted a policy of not financing a unit if the block has fewer than five units.
They also ask for some additional information:
- A full bank valuation is required.
- Memorandum and articles of association of the company.
- ASIC search confirming the company is a Home Unit Proprietary Company.
We have lenders that will accept apartments in small blocks (1 – 4 units) on a case by case basis.
Fill in our online enquiry form and tell us about the property you have in mind.
What Types Of Company Title Properties Are Acceptable?
Company Title Units
Most commonly accepted, subject to lender policy and building characteristics.
Company Share Title (Victoria)
In Victoria, the company title is often referred to as the company share title. Some lenders will accept this structure under similar conditions.
Company Title Duplexes Or Townhouses
Duplexes or dual occupancy properties and townhouses under a company title may also be considered.
It’s often easier to get permission to buy or sell because there is only one other tenant that you need to get permission from.
Pros And Cons Of Buying A Company Title Property
Pros
- Lower purchase price: Often cheaper than strata title properties.
- Lower or simpler fees: Costs may be structured differently from strata levies.
- Controlled living environment: Strict approval processes can help maintain resident quality.
- Can suit long-term owner-occupiers: Stable resident base with less turnover.
- Rules can protect the building’s character: The company constitution can restrict undesirable changes.
- Entry into desirable areas: Lower prices can make certain locations more accessible.
Cons
- Limited lending options: Fewer lenders, lower LVRs and stricter loan criteria.
- No direct property ownership: You own shares, not the title to the unit.
- Approval required for key actions: Buying, selling or renting may need board consent.
- Rental restrictions: Leasing may be limited or subject to approval.
- Restrictive rules: Limits may apply to renovations, borrowing, and share transfers.
- Slower resale: Approval processes and niche buyer pool can delay sales.
- Lower demand: Less familiar structure reduces buyer interest.
- Weaker investment performance: Rental yield and capital growth may be lower.
- Ongoing costs still apply: Owners contribute to building expenses via company levies.
- Dispute resolution can be complex: Governed by company law rather than strata frameworks.
Apply For A Company Title Home Loan
Getting a loan for a company title unit isn’t as straightforward as a standard apartment, but it’s definitely doable.
Working with a specialist mortgage broker can help you find lenders that actually accept company title properties and see how much you could borrow based on your situation. You might even be eligible for a sharper interest rate.
Call us on 1300 889 743 or complete the free online assessment form to find out if you qualify for a company title mortgage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Difference Between A Company Title And A Strata Title?
The key difference is ownership structure:
- Company title: You own shares in a company that give you the right to occupy a unit
- Strata title: You directly own your individual unit and share ownership of common areas
Strata title is more widely accepted by lenders and buyers, which is why it is now the standard.
Which Banks Or Lenders Accept Company Title Properties?
Can First Home Buyers Purchase A Company Title Property?
Can You Refinance A Company Title Mortgage?
Is A Company Title Property A Good Investment?
Are Low Doc Loans Available For Company Title Properties?
Why Are Banks Conservative With Company Title Properties?
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