
Frequently asked questions
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We offer a comprehensive suite of services designed to support you at every stage of your financial journey. Whether you’re looking to secure a new home loan, refinance your current mortgage, invest in properties or receive personalized financial guidance, we’re here to help. Our expertise doesn’t just stop at Home loans. We can also assist with Business loans, Asset finance & Personal loans. Our mission is to navigate you through the entire borrowing process, ensuring a seamless experience from your initial consultation all the way to settlement and beyond.
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Our services are free for our clients, as we are paid by lenders once a loan is settled. As brokers, we are committed to following Best Interest Duty (BID), ensuring that your needs are our top priority. We have your best interests at heart, guiding you towards the most suitable loan options and providing transparent advice throughout the process.
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The deposit required can vary based on the lender and the type of loan. Generally, a deposit of at least 20% of the property’s value is recommended to avoid Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI). If you are a professional, you may be eligible for a LMI waiver. Look at our professionals page for more information.
Some lenders may also offer options with lower deposits, often starting from 5% and in some cases, as low as 2%. Refer to our schemes page to find out more about this option!
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Lenders Mortgage Insurance is a policy that protects the lender in case the borrower defaults on their loan. If your deposit is less than 20% of the property’s value, you may be required to pay LMI, which can add to the overall cost of your loan.
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Yes! We are well-versed in various government schemes and grants available for first home buyers and other eligible clients. We can guide you through the application processes and help you determine your eligibility for programs like the First Home Owner Grant or the First Home Loan Deposit Scheme.
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We assess your financial situation and goals to find a loan that suits your needs. By comparing a wide range of lenders and their products, we can identify the best options for you and negotiate competitive rates and terms.
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We assist with various loan types, including residential home loans, investment property loans, refinancing options, construction loans, business loans, asset finance and more! Our team is experienced in navigating the complexities of different loan products to find the best fit for you.
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The loan application process typically involves gathering your financial information, selecting a loan product, completing the application, and providing necessary documentation. We guide you through each step to ensure everything is completed accurately and efficiently.
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The time it takes to secure a loan can vary based on several factors, including the lender's processing time and the complexity of your application. Generally, it can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks for the more complex scenarios. We work diligently to expedite the process for you.
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Common documents required include proof of income (like payslips or tax returns), bank statements, identification, and information about your current financial situation and any properties you own or are looking to buy. We provide a complete list during our initial consultation.
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Yes, we can assist clients with various credit histories. While having a poor credit score may limit some options, we work with lenders who specialize in helping clients improve their financial situations and find suitable loan products.
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It's recommended to review your mortgage annually or whenever there are significant changes in your financial situation or the property market. We offer ongoing reviews to ensure your mortgage continues to meet your needs.
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When deciding on a home loan, one of the key considerations is whether to choose a Principal and Interest (P&I) loan or an Interest-Only loan. A Principal and Interest loan requires you to pay both the principal amount and the interest throughout the loan term, gradually reducing your debt and building equity in your property over time. This option typically results in lower overall interest costs and a clear repayment plan.
On the other hand, an Interest-Only loan allows you to pay only the interest for an initial period, which can result in lower monthly repayments at the start. While this can provide more cash flow flexibility in the short term, it means your loan balance remains unchanged during the interest-only period, and you may face higher repayments once this period ends.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your financial goals, cash flow needs, and long-term plans. Our team is here to help you evaluate your options and find the best fit for your situation.
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When selecting a home loan, a crucial decision is whether to opt for a Fixed or Variable interest rate. A Fixed rate locks in your interest rate for a specified period, providing stability and predictability in your repayments. This can be particularly advantageous in a rising interest rate environment, as it protects you from potential increases.
In contrast, a Variable rate fluctuates based on market conditions, meaning your repayments may change over time. While this option can offer the possibility of lower initial rates, it may also come with added features, such as the ability to make extra repayments or access an offset account.
Choosing between fixed and variable rates ultimately depends on your financial situation, risk tolerance, and how long you plan to stay in your home. Our team is here to guide you through this decision, helping you weigh the pros and cons to find the option that best aligns with your financial goals.
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An offset account is a savings or transaction account linked to your home loan. The balance in this account is offset against your loan balance, reducing the amount of interest you pay. For example, if you have a home loan of $300,000 and $20,000 in your offset account, you only pay interest on $280,000. This feature can significantly reduce your interest costs over time and help you pay off your mortgage faster. It also provides you with easy access to your funds, offering both savings benefits and flexibility.
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A redraw facility allows you to withdraw extra payments you’ve made on your mortgage. If you have paid more than the minimum required amount, you can access these extra funds when needed. This feature is particularly useful for borrowers who want to maintain flexibility in their finances. However, not all loans come with a redraw option, and there may be conditions or fees associated with accessing these funds. It’s an excellent tool for managing your mortgage while providing access to savings for future expenses.
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Stamp duty is a government tax imposed on certain transactions, including the purchase of real estate. It is typically calculated as a percentage of the property’s purchase price and varies from state to state in Australia. Stamp duty must be paid at the time of settlement, and the amount can significantly impact your overall purchasing costs.
The rates can depend on factors such as the property type (residential, commercial, or investment) and whether you’re a first home buyer, as some states offer concessions or exemptions for eligible buyers. It’s important to factor stamp duty into your budget when planning to purchase a property, as it can add a considerable amount to your initial costs. Our team can help you calculate the expected stamp duty for your property purchase and explore any available concessions.
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Experiencing financial hardship can be overwhelming, but it’s important to know that support is available. If you find yourself struggling to make your mortgage repayments due to unforeseen circumstances such as job loss, illness, or other financial pressures, it’s crucial to take action as soon as possible.
The first step is to communicate with your lender. Many lenders have hardship programs that can offer temporary relief, such as repayment deferrals, loan restructuring, or reduced payment plans. Additionally, reaching out to a mortgage broker like us can provide you with valuable guidance and support during this challenging time.
We can help assess your situation, explore your options, and negotiate with your lender on your behalf. Remember, you are not alone, and there are pathways available to help you navigate through financial hardship and get back on track.
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