Frequently Asked Questions

A bank only offers its own specific branded products. A mortgage broker acts as an intermediary who has access to a panel of dozens of different lenders (including the "Big Four" banks, smaller banks, and non-bank lenders). While a bank employee represents the bank, a broker is legally required to act in your Best Interests Duty, helping you compare multiple options to find the one that fits your specific needs.

In most cases, a mortgage broker’s service is free for the borrower. Brokers are paid a commission by the lender after your loan settles. This commission is not added to your loan amount or interest rate; it is a cost paid by the bank to the broker for doing the administrative work.

• Upfront Commission: Paid by the lender upon settlement.

• Trail Commission: A smaller ongoing payment paid over the life of the loan.

• Note: In rare, highly complex cases, a broker may charge a service fee, but they must disclose this to you upfront.

Yes, often they can. Because brokers have access to a wide range of lenders, they can identify competitive rates you might not find on your own. Furthermore, brokers often have the power to negotiate with lenders to secure a lower rate or a fee waiver that isn't advertised to the general public. They also help you avoid "loyalty tax"—where existing bank customers pay more than new ones.

While every situation is different, here is a general timeline:

• Pre-approval: Usually 2 to 5 business days once all documents are submitted.

• Valuation & Formal Approval: Once you find a property, this typically takes another 3 to 7 business days.

• Settlement: Usually 30 to 42 days from the date of the signed contract, depending on the terms agreed upon with the seller.

Standard requirements for an Australian home loan usually include:

• ID: Passport, Driver’s License, and Medicare card.

• Income: Your two most recent payslips and most recent Group Certificate (PAYG Summary).

• Tax: If self-employed, usually the last two years of personal and business tax returns.

• Expenses: 3–6 months of bank statements showing your spending and savings.

• Liabilities: Statements for any existing loans or credit cards.

Your borrowing capacity is determined by several factors, including:

• Income: Your gross salary, bonuses, or self-employed earnings.

• Expenses: Your regular living costs (HEM) and dependents.

• Existing Debts: Credit card limits, car loans, and HECS/HELP debts.

• Deposit: Usually, you need at least 5% to 20% of the property value.

• Interest Rate Buffers: Lenders assess your ability to pay at a rate approx. 3% higher than the current market rate to ensure you can handle future increases.

Yes, interest-only loans are common for investors because they can improve cash flow in the short term. We can discuss whether this approach fits your investment goals.

Yes! We specialise in helping property investors find the right loan structure for their portfolio. Whether it’s a first investment property or multiple properties, we can guide you to the best options.

This depends on your income, expenses, existing loans, and the lender’s criteria. We’ll run the numbers for you and help structure your loan to maximise borrowing capacity while managing risk.

Not necessarily. We can help you explore options, including leveraging equity from existing properties.

Absolutely. Refinancing can help you access equity, reduce your interest rate, or restructure your loans to improve cash flow. We can assess your portfolio and suggest the most efficient approach.

Yes, we can advise on investment loans through SMSFs and guide you through the lender requirements, helping you make compliant, effective borrowing decisions.