Is it worth refinancing my current home loan?

It is recommended to review your home loan interest rates every 12-18 months to ensure you are on the best available rate for your circumstances. Many lenders will offer introductory special rates to secure you as a customer, gradually increasing them over time. Our clients all save money in the first year by refinancing, even when you include the costs associated with changing lenders.

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Can I refinance my home to pay out my other loans?

Yes, you can refinance your home loan to pay out other loans—this is known as debt consolidation. It involves using the equity in your home to pay off other debts (like personal loans, credit cards, or car loans), and consolidating them into your home loan. Whilst this method means you are paying loans off over a longer term, it is a great way to reduce your ongoing monthly financial commitments.

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How much of a deposit do I need to purchase a property?​

Getting the right deposit together is a crucial step in your property journey. Generally, you’ll need at least 10-20% of the property’s value as a deposit, plus stamp duties & fees depending on the type of loan and lender. If you’re a first-time homebuyer, there are options that might allow for a smaller deposit. Our team is here to help you explore every option and find what works best for your financial situation.

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What are some of the current government initiatives available to eligible property buyers?​

First Home Guarantee (FHBG): This initiative allows eligible buyers to purchase a home with a deposit as low as 5% without paying Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI). The government guarantees up to 15% of the property value, facilitating homeownership sooner for many Australians.

Help to Buy Scheme: Expanded in the 2025 Federal Budget, this program provides an equity contribution of up to 40% for new homes and 30% for existing homes. With a minimum 2% deposit, eligible buyers can secure a home with a smaller mortgage. The initiative aims to assist around 40,000 households over its duration.

First Home Owner Grant (FHOG) and State-Based Concessions: Each Australian state and territory offers its own first home buyer grants, concessions, and incentives, such as stamp duty exemptions or reductions.

 

These initiatives can vary by location & your individual financial position, so please contact us for further assistance.

 

​What financial information is required to obtain a loan?​

You’ll typically need to provide information like your income (payslips and/or tax returns), details of your living expenses, your savings and assets, and a breakdown of your current financial commitments.

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How much can I borrow?

The amount you can borrow depends on a range of factors, including your income, current debts, credit history, and the lender’s policies. As a general rule, lenders will typically allow you to borrow up to around 80% of the property value, though it can be more with the right conditions. We are here to work with you to maximise your borrowing power and secure the best loan options available.

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What is an offset account?

An offset account is a transaction account linked to your home loan, where the balance in the offset account is subtracted from your loan balance when calculating interest. This means you can reduce the interest you pay on your mortgage whilst having access to additional funds, which helps you save over time.

 

Scenario:

You have a $700,000 home loan at 6% interest and an offset account with $100,000.

Without Offset Account:

Loan balance: $700,000

Annual interest = $42,000 (6% of $700,000)

With Offset Account:

Effective loan balance: $700,000 - $100,000 = $600,000

Annual interest = $36,000 (6% of $600,000)

Result:

Using the offset account saves you $6,000 in interest over the year.

 

What are low-doc loans?

Low-doc loans are a great option for self-employed individuals or those with irregular income. These loans require minimal documentation compared to standard loans but still require you to prove your ability to repay. The documentation & income verification used to support these applications usually includes self-declarations, accountant declarations & BAS statements.

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Why is using a broker better than going directly to a bank?

Using a broker can help you access a wider range of loan options, as we work with over 70 lenders to find the best fit for you. We can compare rates, terms, and conditions to ensure you get a loan tailored to your needs. Plus, our expertise means we can navigate complex borrowing structures and streamline the process – giving you more time to focus on your other priorities.

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How can I maximise my borrowing capacity?

Maximising your borrowing capacity often comes down to managing your finances strategically. Reducing debts, saving for a larger deposit, and increasing your income can all help. We’ll assess your financial situation and give you expert advice on how to boost your borrowing power – helping you unlock greater opportunities.

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Can I use equity from my current property to purchase another property?

Yes! If your current property has increased in value, you can use the equity as a deposit for a new property. This is a smart way to expand your property portfolio without needing to save up for a full deposit. We offer complimentary property valuations to support your decision-making process.

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Can I use my current equity to purchase a commercial property?

Absolutely! If you have sufficient equity in your existing property, you can use it as a deposit for a commercial property. Commercial loans have different criteria compared to residential loans, however we’re here to help you understand these differences and find the best solution for your investment goals.

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Can I purchase an investment property using my superannuation?

Yes, it’s possible to use your superannuation to purchase an investment property through a Self-Managed Super Fund (SMSF). However, there are strict regulations and requirements involved, so it’s essential to get expert advice. We can guide you through the process obtaining a loan up to 90% of the purchase price, and ensure you’re making an informed decision that aligns with your long-term financial objectives. There are also many tax benefits to consider when purchasing property with an SMSF, however you should always check with a qualified accountant before making a financial decision.

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Can I secure a loan if I have a bad credit history?

Yes, it is possible to secure a loan with a bad credit history, however it can be challenging. Lenders typically use your credit score and credit history to assess your ability to repay a loan. However, there are many options available to those with a less-than-ideal credit history. We can assess your position & provide advice without any impact to your credit score.​

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These answers are designed to give you a clear understanding of the key steps in your property and investment journey. We’re committed to helping you every step of the way—whether you're purchasing your first or next property, looking to reduce costs or free up equity.

 

Book a free strategy call with us below to discuss your options!