How To: Compare Home Loans

There are many aspects to analyse before deciding on a home loan. To help you get rolling, here are some different methods you can use to compare.

1. Interest Rate

Lenders propose two interest rate options: variable and fixed.

a. Fixed

The interest rate on your mortgage will remain the same for the fixed period of up to five years. Subsequently, your loan will return to a variable interest rate.

b. Variable

The interest rate on your mortgage may fall or rise, generally in line with the cash rate change; however, lenders may make amendments independently.

2. Loan Type

To enjoy the varied loan features, you should choose one of the following loans:

a. Standard Loan

This loan gives more flexibility than a basic loan. For instance, you can switch to fixed rate, redraw any additional money you have paid, or split the loan into variable and fixed parts.

b. Basic Loan

This is a low-interest loan with limited features and added features comes with certain restrictions.

c. Home Loan Package

It is a standard loan with an interest rate reduction of up to 1.2 per cent based on your loan amount, which is generally affordable than many basic loans.

d. Bridging Loan

You may use the bridging loan to manage the transition between selling and buying properties.

e. Line Of Credit Loan

In this loan, the credit limit is fixed and does not decrease as you repay the loan. Therefore, you can always draw up to that original limit. It suits better someone who is a careful budgeter and disciplined with irregular income.

f. Construction Loan

If you are constructing a new house, you may want to apply for a construction loan. With this type of mortgage, you can withdraw the amount in stages as you receive invoices from suppliers and tradespeople. Moreover, you will pay interest on the amount you have used.

3. Loan Features

Following features may seem helpful, but they come with a cost. Hence, you must think carefully about which loan feature(s) you need.

 

  1. Offset Account: It is a saving or transaction account linked to your mortgage.
  2. Split Rate Option: In this selection, you can divide your home loan into two parts – one on a variable rate and the other on a fixed rate.
  3. Repayment Holiday: Some loan products offer this feature for up to six months. Check the conditions before opting for this feature.
  4. Redraw Facility: It enables you to pay additional funds into your loan that you can take out later when needed.

4. Repayment Type

There are two primary loan repayment options.

a. Interest-only

Your repayment sum will only cover the interest of your mortgage. The principal amount you borrowed will not decrease unless you choose to make additional repayments.

b. Principal-and-interest Loan

You make regular repayments against the borrowed sum (principal), including the interest. This loan is intended to be repaid in full over its term.

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