FAQ
Common Questions
What is a mortgage broker, and how do they differ from a loan officer?
The role of a mortgage broker in connecting borrowers with lenders, as opposed to a loan officer who works directly for a specific lending institution, like a bank.
How does working with a mortgage broker benefit me?
The advantages include access to a variety of loan options, personalised advice throughout the entire lending journey, no service fee to the broker, potentially better rates and various options and we can work directly with your trusted advisors like accountants and financial advisors.
How many lenders will you choose from?
We partner with Loan Market and have access to over 60 lenders.
What information do you need from me to get started with the mortgage process?
Identity and verification documents, proof of employment and income details, credit history, tax returns, bank and savings information’s, asset details and other property, purchasing or loan related information.
How do you determine which lenders and loan products are the best fit for my needs?
Our team use our seven step methodology and evaluate your financial situation and match it with suitable lenders and loan options.
What types of mortgages do you offer, and which one is right for me?
Different types of mortgages such as fixed rates and variable rates, along with advice on which option may be most suitable depending on the client’s circumstances.
Can you help me improve my credit score to secure a better mortgage rate?
We provide tailored guidance on steps to improve creditworthiness and potentially qualify for more favourable loan terms.
What happens if I face financial difficulties and struggle to make mortgage payments?
If you are unable to meet your loan repayments, we are here to support you and get the help you need to overcome any financial difficulty or hardship you may be experiencing. It is a good idea to reach out as soon as you identify there may be a problem so we can act quickly and reduce the impact.
What types of grants are accessible to me?
Numerous grants are accessible for individuals seeking a home loan, with variations depending on the state. To determine your eligibility for available grants, reach out to us.
What is the expense involved in refinancing?
The costs associated with refinancing typically encompass discharge, application, and settlement fees. Hence, it’s crucial to ensure that the long-term savings outweigh the initial costs.
How much of a deposit do I need to buy a property?
Generally, lenders require a 20% deposit of the total house price before considering a loan. However, there are alternatives available. Some lenders may accept a smaller deposit, though this may necessitate paying Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI). Additionally, there could be grants accessible to you.
Can you assist me in comprehending my borrowing capacity?
Certainly! Borrowing capacity pertains to the amount you can borrow from a lender. For an estimate of your borrowing capacity, utilize our calculator: “How much can I borrow?” For a thorough assessment, reach out to us today.
What are the fees I should be mindful of when buying a property?
Several fees often go unmentioned when purchasing a property, including stamp duty, application fees, and pest and building inspections.
Home Loan Questions
What is a grant?
A grant refers to a non-repayable sum provided by a specific entity, often a nonprofit organization or government body.
Should I rent or buy?
Both renting and buying a home have advantages. Renting offers flexibility for relocation and frees up savings, while buying provides stability and the opportunity to build equity. A broker can assist in deciding which option aligns best with your financial situation and future aspirations.
Should I buy or sell first?
Determining whether to buy or sell first depends on timing and individual circumstances. Seeking advice from a professional is recommended to explore the pros and cons of each option.
What is a deposit bond?
A deposit bond is a document assuring the seller that the deposit will be provided during settlement rather than at the contract exchange. It enables a company to cover the deposit cost, with the buyer repaying the company typically after their property has been sold, serving as an alternative to short-term credit.
What is a redraw facility?
A redraw facility, linked to your home loan, serves as a repository for savings earmarked to pay off your mortgage. Utilizing this facility can help reduce the interest on your home loan.
How much can I borrow?
The amount you can borrow depends on various factors such as your current income and savings. Utilize our borrowing power calculator for an estimate or reach out to us for personalized assistance.
What is genuine savings?
Genuine savings refer to funds accumulated over a specified period, typically three months, as opposed to money received as a gift.
What is an offset account?
An offset account is a transaction account linked to your home loan, allowing deposits and withdrawals. Holding funds in this account can potentially reduce the interest charged on your loan.
What is a residual amount?
A residual amount, sometimes termed a balloon payment, is a one-time payment due at the end of the loan term, factored into the total loan cost at the outset.
What is a good interest rate?
A good interest rate depends on factors such as loan type and repayment plan, varying for each individual. Consulting with a broker can help identify competitive rates tailored to your needs.
What is an interest-only loan?
An interest-only loan entails paying only the interest on the principal balance for a set period, without reducing the principal balance.
Should I use a bank or broker?
While banks offer their products, brokers explore multiple options from various lenders to find the right loan for you, with a legal obligation to act in your best interest. This distinction makes brokers a preferable choice.
How does a bridging loan work?
A bridging loan facilitates the purchase of a new home while awaiting the sale of your current property. It covers the cost of the new property, to be repaid upon the sale of the old property.
What is Best Interest Duty (BID)?
Best Interest Duty (BID) mandates mortgage brokers to act in the client’s best interest, ensuring ethical and responsible service, a requirement not applicable to banks.
What does a mortgage broker do?
A mortgage broker assists borrowers in finding loans suited to their needs by offering access to diverse products and lenders, guiding clients throughout their loan duration to optimize savings.
What is Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI)?
Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI) safeguards lenders in case of default by borrowers. It’s an additional fee applicable when the loan poses higher risk, typically when borrowing more than 80% of the purchase price.
What does pre-approval mean and do I need it?
Pre-approval indicates a lender’s provisional approval for a home loan up to a certain limit. It provides clarity on loan eligibility and potential terms but does not bind the lender to provide the loan until further conditions are met.
What is stamp duty and how much does it cost?
Stamp duty refers to state government taxes on property transactions, varying based on location and property price. Utilize our stamp duty calculator for estimates and reach out for further assistance.
What happens to my mortgage when I move house?
When moving house, options include refinancing with the same or a new lender, or paying out the existing loan and obtaining a new one. Professional guidance can help determine the most suitable approach.
How will you decide which loan is best suited to my circumstances?
We’ll explore your preferences and financial situation to narrow down options, considering factors like loan type and features, ultimately arriving at a decision together.
What is the difference between offset accounts and redraw facilities?
While both can save interest on your home loan, offset accounts offer greater flexibility, allowing withdrawals via ATMs and debit cards, whereas redraw facilities serve as storage for savings, with limited accessibility.
What is the difference between a fixed rate home loan vs a variable rate?
Variable rate loans fluctuate with market conditions, offering flexibility, while fixed-rate loans maintain a constant rate for a predetermined period, providing predictability.
Other Loan Questions
Do I need pre-approval for a personal loan?
While not obligatory, obtaining pre-approval for a personal loan offers clarity on loan eligibility, repayment estimates, and available features, aiding in informed decision-making.
Secured or unsecured car loan?
Secured car loans utilize the car as collateral, offering lower rates, while unsecured loans do not require collateral but may carry higher interest rates and lower borrowing capacity.
What other costs should I be aware of?
Beyond the car loan, additional costs like stamp duty, registration, insurance, and running expenses should be considered. Professional guidance can help assess overall affordability.
Do I need pre-approval for a car loan?
Securing pre-approval for a car loan provides insight into affordability, repayment estimates, interest rates, and available features, enhancing negotiation power when purchasing a vehicle.
What does refinancing mean?
Refinancing involves replacing an existing mortgage with a new loan from a different lender, typically to secure better terms or features.
What does negative and positive gearing mean?
Negative gearing occurs when expenses exceed earnings in an investment property, while positive gearing indicates earnings surpass expenses, resulting in a net profit.
Can I use equity to buy an investment property?
Yes, leveraging equity from an existing property can finance the purchase of an investment property, offering an alternative to utilizing savings.
Is buying an investment property right for me?
Assessing affordability, goals, and long-term plans is crucial in determining the suitability of investing in property. Consultation with financial experts can provide valuable insights.
What is the right investment strategy for me?
Selecting an investment strategy depends on factors like investment duration, initial capital, and financial goals, necessitating thorough consideration and professional guidance.
How do I choose the right kind of investment loan?
The ideal investment loan should align with your goals for cash flow and capital growth, considering factors like interest rate type and lender options.
Do I need to get pre-approval for my investment loan?
Formal pre-approval for an investment loan is essential, providing clarity on the maximum loan amount based on financial assessments and investment details.
How long is an asset finance term?
Asset finance terms typically span from one to seven years, offering flexibility in repayment durations.