A recent Finder survey found that on average Australians would refuse to date someone if their personal debt exceeded $59,758 outside of their mortgage.
Kate Browne, personal finance expert at Finder, said that debt can be a major deal breaker in a modern dating world.
“Love and money don’t always mix, especially when debt is involved. It’s hard enough to keep your own personal finances in check, let alone having to worry about someone else’s,” Ms Browne said.
“You don’t want your partner’s debt to prevent you from eventually buying a home or getting ahead financially.”
Men are more lenient when it comes to debt than women, with the average male admitting to looking the other way for up to $64,000, while women would only do the same for $56,000.
Ms Browne said that debt doesn’t necessarily spell disaster in a potential partner.
“For many Aussies who are out there dating, debt can be a red flag. But some types of debt are better than others,” she said.
“A student loan is considered to be good debt because it can help an individual to get ahead in life. You should also consider your partner’s strategy for getting rid of debt. They may repay it in a matter of months with clever budgeting.”
The comparison site explained that one partner's debt could stop the other from getting a mortgage when finances are under the microscope, limit access to joint finance and hold the other partner responsible for debts incurred.
About the author
