Refinancing your home loan to secure a lower interest rate or to access funds for a home renovation or debt consolidation can be a smart financial move that leads to significant savings over time. However, it's essential to approach the refinancing process with careful consideration and thorough preparation to determine both the short and long-term impact on your financial situation. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the refinancing process.
Assess Your Current Mortgage
Consult with a mortgage broker who can assess your current mortgage, explore available refinancing options, and advise on whether refinancing aligns with your objectives. With their knowledge of the market and access to a wide range of lenders, a mortgage broker can help you make informed decisions about refinancing, ensuring it's the right choice for your situation.
Determine Your Financial Needs
Decide on the amount you intend to borrow through refinancing, considering various factors such as settling your current loan, financing home renovations, or consolidating debts. Remember to include any associated fees or charges in your calculations to determine the total loan amount needed and whether the costs outweigh the savings.
Research Financing Options
Explore different mortgage options and lenders using online comparison tools or with the help of a mortgage broker. Compare interest rates, fees, and features to identify lenders that align with your financial goals and preferences.
Evaluate Your Property's Value
The market value of your property will impact your loan-to-value ratio (LVR) and potential interest rates. To gauge your property’s worth, consult with local real estate agents, research comparable properties in your area, or arrange a privately ordered valuation.
Review Your Credit Report
Request a copy of your credit report from any of Australia’s credit reporting bureaus to get an insight into your credit history. When applying for a new home loan or refinancing an existing home loan, lenders will evaluate your credit history. Take steps to improve your credit score by addressing outstanding debts or inaccuracies on your report.
Get Home Loan Approval
Gather the necessary documents, including proof of income, ID, and property information. Working with a mortgage broker, submit your application to your chosen lender for refinancing. The lender may require a property valuation and, once formal loan approval is granted, will provide you with a loan contract outlining terms and conditions, including fees and charges.
Completing The Process
Remember to let your insurance provider know about any changes to your lender and home loan amount to update your insurance policy details. On the agreed settlement day, your new home loan will be disbursed to pay off your old loan, effectively closing the account and completing the refinancing process.
A Smart Financial Move
When done strategically, refinancing your home loan can be a smart financial move that offers several benefits, including savings on interest rates, access to funds for renovations or debt consolidation, and improved loan terms.
Working with a mortgage broker can help streamline the refinancing process, provide access to a diverse range of lenders, and expert guidance tailored to your specific needs. Secure the most favourable outcome for your financial situation and navigate the complexities of refinancing with confidence. Contact a Mortgage Express broker today to discuss your refinancing requirements.
While all care has been taken in the preparation of this publication, no warranty is given as to the accuracy of the information and no responsibility is taken by Finservice Pty Ltd (Mortgage Express) for any errors or omissions. This publication does not constitute personalised financial advice. It may not be relevant to individual circumstances. Nothing in this publication is, or should be taken as, an offer, invitation, or recommendation to buy, sell, or retain any investment in or make any deposit with any person. You should seek professional advice before taking any action in relation to the matters dealt within this publication. A Disclosure Statement is available on request and free of charge.
Finservice Pty Ltd (Mortgage Express) is authorised as a corporate credit representative (Corporate Credit Representative Number 397386) to engage in credit activities on behalf of BLSSA Pty Ltd (Australian Credit Licence number 391237) ACN 123 600 000 | Full member of MFAA | Member of Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) | Member of Choice Aggregation Services.
