Awesome Lending Solutions

Saturday, 17 October 2026

Mortgage Broker in Sydney: Local Home Loan Help From North Strathfield

This article first appeared on awesomelendingsolutions.com.au.

When you search for a "mortgage broker near me" in Sydney, you'll find hundreds of options. Choosing a local broker you can trust makes a big difference. A broker who knows Sydney understands the suburbs, the price caps, the lenders' local policies and the challenges buyers face here.

Awesome Lending Solutions is a Sydney mortgage broking business based in North Strathfield in Sydney's Inner West. We help people across Sydney and NSW buy homes, refinance and invest.

Why choose a local Sydney broker?

Local market knowledge

Sydney is a big and diverse market. Prices, property types and lender attitudes vary from suburb to suburb. A local broker understands:

Scheme price caps by postcode
Lender policies on unit sizes, high-density buildings and certain postcodes
Flood zones and other issues that can affect valuations
How NSW stamp duty and grants work

Face-to-face meetings

Many clients like to sit down in person, especially for big decisions. We also meet by phone and video for busy families and clients across NSW.

Relationships with local professionals

A local broker often works alongside conveyancers, accountants, buyer's agents and real estate agents in the area, which can make the process smoother.

About Awesome Lending Solutions

Our director and finance strategist, Albert Waldron, has been a mortgage broker since 2002 and started Awesome Lending Solutions in its current form in 2014. Over that time, the business has:

Settled more than 1,000 loans
Worked with a panel of over 60 lenders
Helped clients in every state and territory except the Northern Territory

Albert is a member of the FBAA and a Credit Representative (CR 407514) of AFG's Australian Credit Licence 389087.

Our office is at Level 1, 5 George Street, North Strathfield NSW 2137, close to Strathfield, Concord, Homebush, Burwood and Rhodes.

Who we help

First home buyers – including the 5% Deposit Scheme, Help to Buy and NSW stamp duty exemptions
Single parents – including the Family Home Guarantee with a 2% deposit
Refinancers – to lower rates, consolidate debts or access equity
Property investors – including structure, portfolio planning and the 2026 tax changes
Self-employed borrowers – including low doc options
SMSF borrowers – for commercial property, now that residential SMSF borrowing is banned

How the process works

Free first chat – we learn about your goals and situation.
Assessment – we work out your borrowing power and scheme eligibility.
Comparison – we compare suitable loans across our lender panel.
Recommendation – we explain our recommendation and the alternatives.
Application – we prepare and lodge the paperwork.
Approval and settlement – we manage the process and keep you updated.
Ongoing reviews – we check in to make sure your loan stays competitive.

The Sydney market in 2026

Sydney has seen a lot of change this year:

The cash rate rose to 4.60% at the end of September, its fourth rise in 2026.
Sydney home values were about 8.6% below their February peak by the end of September.
The 5% Deposit Scheme now allows purchases up to $1.5 million in Sydney with no income cap.
NSW first home buyers pay no stamp duty on homes up to $800,000.

These changes create both challenges and opportunities. Local advice can help you make sense of them.

What our clients value

Clients often tell us they value plain-English explanations, quick responses and the feeling that someone is on their side. Buying a home is stressful. Our job is to make the finance part as clear and calm as possible.

How brokers are paid

For most home loans, we are paid by the lender. This doesn't add to your loan costs, and we disclose all payments to you in writing. Under the law, we must act in your best interests.

Suburbs we often help with

We regularly help buyers and home owners in North Strathfield, Strathfield, Concord, Homebush, Burwood, Rhodes, Five Dock, Parramatta and across the Inner West and Western Sydney. We also help clients in regional NSW and interstate, so wherever you're buying, we can help you understand your options.

What to bring to your first chat

Recent payslips or tax returns
Recent bank statements
Details of any debts
Your goals and rough timeframe

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to live near North Strathfield to use you?

No. We help clients across Sydney and NSW, and in most other states, by phone and video.

Is the first meeting free?

Yes. There's no cost or obligation for an initial chat.

How quickly can I get pre-approval?

It depends on the lender and your documents, but many pre-approvals are completed within a few days to two weeks.

Talk to Awesome Lending Solutions

Every situation is different, and the right loan depends on your goals, income and timing. At Awesome Lending Solutions, we compare a wide panel of lenders and explain your options in plain English, with no pressure. Call us on 02 7904 9560 or visit awesomelendingsolutions.com.au to book a chat.

This article is general information only. It does not consider your objectives, financial situation or needs, and it is not financial, tax or legal advice. Scheme rules, interest rates and laws were current as at October 2026 and can change. Speak with a licensed professional before making any decision. Albert Waldron is a Credit Representative (CR 407514) of AFG's Australian Credit Licence 389087.

Friday, 16 October 2026

Investment Loan Rates in Australia: How to Find the Best Deal

This article first appeared on awesomelendingsolutions.com.au.

Investment loan rates directly affect your cash flow and returns. Even a small difference can add up to thousands of dollars a year. But the "best" investment loan isn't just the one with the lowest rate. This guide explains how investment rates work and how to compare them properly.

Why are investment rates higher?

Lenders usually charge investors a little more than owner-occupiers. This is because:

Investors are seen as slightly more likely to default in tough times
Regulators expect banks to hold more capital against investor loans
Investment loans are often interest-only, which carries more risk

The gap between owner-occupied and investor rates changes over time, so it's worth checking the current market.

What affects your rate?

Your rate depends on:

Repayment type – interest-only rates are usually higher than principal and interest
Loan to Value Ratio (LVR) – lower LVRs usually get better rates
Loan size – larger loans may get bigger discounts
Rate type – variable, fixed or split
Your profile – income, credit history and portfolio size
The lender – each has its own pricing and appetite for investors

Rates in 2026

The Reserve Bank raised the cash rate four times in 2026, to 4.60% at the end of September. Most lenders passed these rises on to variable rates. If you haven't reviewed your investment loan this year, you may be paying more than you need to.

How to compare investment loans

1. Compare the comparison rate

This includes most fees and gives a better picture of the real cost.

2. Check the interest-only terms

If you want interest-only, ask:

How long can I have interest-only?
What's the rate difference?
What happens when it ends?

3. Look at features

Offset account – useful, but for investment loans, an offset on your home loan is often more valuable
Split loans – useful for different purposes
Free extra repayments

4. Check lender policies

This is often more important than the rate for investors. Ask:

How much rental income will you count?
How do you treat negative gearing in serviceability?
Do you accept my property type and location?
How do you assess existing investment loans with other lenders?

Since February 2026, banks are limited in how much lending they can do where total debt is six or more times income. If you have several properties, some lenders may have more capacity than others.

5. Watch the fees

Annual package fees are common. On larger loans, a package can be worth it for the rate discount. On smaller loans, it may not be.

An example

Two investment loans on $600,000:

Loan A: 6.49% interest-only, $395 annual fee

Loan B: 6.69% interest-only, no annual fee

Interest cost per year:

Loan A: about $38,940 plus $395 = $39,335
Loan B: about $40,140

Loan A is around $800 cheaper each year, even with the annual fee.

Tax and your rate

Interest on investment loans is usually tax deductible. But the 2026 tax changes mean that for established residential properties bought after 7:30pm on 12 May 2026, losses can only be used against rental income or capital gains from 1 July 2027, not against your wages. This changes the after-tax cost of interest for some investors. A lower rate helps no matter which rules apply to you.

Ways to get a better rate

Ask your current lender for a rate review
Reduce your LVR below key thresholds (like 70% or 60%)
Switch from interest-only to principal and interest if it suits your plan
Use a broker to compare a wide range of lenders

Fixed or variable for investors?

Fixed rates give certainty for budgeting, which some investors value when rates are rising. Variable rates give flexibility to sell, refinance or pay down without break costs. Many investors split their loans.

Frequently asked questions

Is the lowest investment rate always best?

No. Lender policy and features can matter more, especially if you plan to keep buying.

Can I get owner-occupied rates on an investment?

No. If you rent out the property, it must be on an investment loan.

How often should investors review their rates?

At least once a year, and whenever the cash rate changes.

Do all lenders charge the same investor premium?

No. Some lenders price investors much more competitively than others, which is why comparing a wide range matters.

Will a lower rate improve my borrowing power?

Slightly, yes. Lenders assess your repayments at your rate plus 3%, so a lower rate can help a little with serviceability for future purchases.

Talk to Awesome Lending Solutions

Thursday, 15 October 2026

Home Loan Refinancing Options in Australia: Which One Suits You?

This article first appeared on awesomelendingsolutions.com.au.

Refinancing isn't one single thing. There are several ways to refinance, and each one suits a different goal. Before you start, it helps to know what you want to achieve. Then you can choose the option that fits.

Option 1: Ask your current lender for a better rate

This is the simplest option. You stay with your lender but ask for a lower rate. Many lenders offer better rates to new customers than to existing ones. If you ask, especially with a competing offer, they may lower your rate.

Best for: people who are happy with their lender and want a quick saving with no paperwork.

Pros: fast, no new application, no fees.

Cons: your lender may only offer a small discount.

Option 2: Switch to a new lender

You move your loan to a new lender with a lower rate or better features.

Best for: people who want the best possible rate or features their current lender doesn't offer.

Pros: potentially larger savings, access to better products.

Cons: new application, valuation and some fees.

Option 3: Switch products with your lender

Some lenders let you change to a different product, such as a loan with an offset account, without a full refinance.

Best for: people who need different features but like their lender.

Option 4: Cash out refinance

You refinance for a higher amount and take out some of your equity as cash, for things like renovations or investing.

Best for: people with good equity and a clear purpose for the funds.

Pros: access to cash at a home loan rate.

Cons: bigger loan, more interest. Lenders will want to know how you'll use the money.

Option 5: Debt consolidation

You roll higher-interest debts, like credit cards or personal loans, into your home loan.

Best for: people struggling with multiple debts who want one lower repayment.

Pros: lower interest rate, simpler budgeting.

Cons: short-term debts become long-term debts. If you don't repay them faster, you may pay more interest overall.

Option 6: Change your rate type

You can refinance to change between:

Variable – flexible, often with an offset account
Fixed – certainty for one to five years
Split – part fixed, part variable

With the cash rate at 4.60% after four rises in 2026, some borrowers are looking at fixed rates for peace of mind. Others prefer to stay variable in case rates fall later. A split loan can give you a bit of both.

Option 7: Restructure your loans

Refinancing can also be a chance to fix a poor loan structure. For example:

Separating investment and home loan debt for tax reasons
Splitting a loan to use an offset account effectively
Removing a former partner from a loan after a separation
Releasing a guarantor

Option 8: Refinance an investment loan

Investors can refinance to lower rates, switch between interest-only and principal and interest, or release equity for the next purchase. Investors should also think about recent tax changes, such as the 2026 negative gearing rules, before restructuring.

How to choose the right option

Ask yourself:

What is my main goal? Lower repayments, cash, features or certainty?
How much equity do I have? Ideally your loan is 80% or less of the property value.
How long will I keep the loan? This affects whether fees and costs are worth it.
Am I on a fixed rate? If so, check break costs.
Has my financial situation changed? This affects what lenders will approve.

Refinancing in NSW

In NSW, refinancing involves registering a new mortgage and discharging the old one through the land registry. Your new lender usually handles this through electronic settlement. Government fees apply, but they are usually a small part of the overall cost.

An example

Jess has a $480,000 loan at 6.89% with her original lender. She also has a $12,000 credit card at 19.99%.

She refinances to a new lender at 6.19%.
She adds the credit card to her home loan.
Her total monthly repayments drop significantly.

Jess commits to paying an extra $350 a month so the credit card debt is still cleared within three years.

Frequently asked questions

Which refinancing option saves the most?

It depends on your situation. Switching lenders often gives the biggest rate cut, but asking your lender first is quick and easy.

Can I do more than one option at once?

Yes. Many people switch lenders, change rate type and consolidate debt in one refinance.

Is now a good time to look at my options?

If you haven't reviewed your loan this year, yes. Four rate rises in 2026 mean many loans are no longer competitive.

Talk to Awesome Lending Solutions

Wednesday, 14 October 2026

First Home Owner Grant 2026: How Much You Can Get and Who Qualifies

This article first appeared on awesomelendingsolutions.com.au.

The First Home Owner Grant (often called the FHOG) is one of the best-known forms of help for first home buyers. But it is also one of the most misunderstood. Many people think everyone buying their first home gets a grant. In fact, the grant is mainly for people buying or building a brand-new home.

Here is how the grant works in 2026, what it is worth in each state, and how it fits with other schemes.

What is the First Home Owner Grant?

The First Home Owner Grant is a one-off cash payment from your state or territory government. It is designed to encourage people to buy or build new homes, which adds to housing supply.

Each state runs its own grant, so the amount and rules depend on where you are buying, not where you live.

How much is the grant in each state?

As at 2026, the grant for new homes is roughly:

NSW – $10,000
Victoria – $10,000
Western Australia – $10,000
South Australia – $15,000
Tasmania – $20,000
Queensland – $30,000
Northern Territory – up to $50,000
ACT – no grant, but a separate stamp duty concession is available

Price caps and rules change, so always check your state revenue office website before you sign anything.

The NSW First Home Owner Grant

In NSW, the grant is $10,000. To be eligible, the property must be:

A newly built home, off-the-plan purchase or substantially renovated home with a purchase price of $600,000 or less, or
A home you build yourself (house and land) with a total value of $750,000 or less

The grant is not available for existing homes. If you buy an established apartment or house, you will not receive the FHOG in NSW. However, you may still save a lot through the stamp duty scheme (more on this below).

Who is eligible?

In general, you must:

Be at least 18 years old
Be an Australian citizen or permanent resident (at least one applicant)
Never have owned residential property in Australia before
Never have received a first home owner grant in any state
Live in the home for at least 12 continuous months, usually starting within 12 months of settlement or completion

Your spouse or partner must also meet the "never owned" rule, even if they are not on the loan.

How to apply

There are two main ways to apply:

Through your lender – many approved lenders can lodge the application for you. The grant is then usually paid at settlement and can help with your deposit or costs.
Directly to Revenue NSW – you can apply online, usually after settlement or once your home is built.

If you are building, the grant is often paid at the first progress payment to your builder.

Other first home buyer help that may be worth more

For most NSW buyers, the grant is not the biggest saving. These schemes can be worth far more:

First Home Buyers Assistance Scheme (NSW) – no stamp duty on new or existing homes up to $800,000, and reduced duty up to $1 million. On an $800,000 home, that is a saving of around $30,000.
5% Deposit Scheme (federal) – buy with a 5% deposit and no LMI. There are no income caps. The NSW price cap is $1.5 million in Sydney and regional centres and $800,000 elsewhere.
Help to Buy (federal) – the government can take up to a 40% share of a new home or 30% of an existing one, with a 2% deposit. Income and price caps apply.
First Home Super Saver Scheme – save part of your deposit inside super, with tax benefits.

In many cases, you can combine these. For example, a first home buyer in NSW buying a new $580,000 apartment could get the $10,000 grant, pay no stamp duty and use the 5% Deposit Scheme to avoid LMI.

Common mistakes to avoid

Assuming you will get the grant on an existing home. In NSW, you will not.
Going over the price cap by a small amount. Even $1 over can make you ineligible.
Not checking your partner's history. If your partner owned property before, it can affect your eligibility.
Moving out too early. If you do not meet the live-in rule, you may have to pay the grant back.

Frequently asked questions

Can I get the grant if I buy an existing home in NSW?

No. The NSW grant is only for new or substantially renovated homes. You may still get stamp duty relief, though.

Can I use the grant for my deposit?

If your lender lodges the application, the grant is usually paid at settlement and can count towards your costs. Some lenders count it towards the deposit; others do not. A broker can check this for you.

Do I have to pay the grant back?

Only if you do not meet the rules, such as living in the home for 12 months.

Talk to Awesome Lending Solutions

Tuesday, 13 October 2026

When Should You Start the Home Loan Process?

This article first appeared on awesomelendingsolutions.com.au.

Many people wait until they've found a property before they think about their home loan. That's often too late. The best time to start the home loan process is much earlier than most people expect. Here's a timeline to help you get ready.

Why start early?

Starting early helps you:

Know your real budget before you fall in love with a property
Fix problems with your credit or finances
Build a stronger deposit and savings history
Find out which government schemes you qualify for
Act quickly when you find the right home

12 months or more before buying

This is the ideal time to have your first chat with a broker. At this stage you can:

Set a savings goal – based on your target price and scheme eligibility
Check your credit report – and fix any errors
Plan for genuine savings – many lenders want to see savings built over at least three months
Consider the First Home Super Saver Scheme – it works best if you start contributing well before you buy
Reduce debts – pay down credit cards and avoid new loans

6 to 12 months before buying

Keep your job stable – lenders prefer at least a few months in your current role, and some require you to be past probation
Track your spending – lenders look at your bank statements
Cancel unused subscriptions and reduce discretionary spending
Research suburbs – and check scheme price caps
Talk about family help – if a guarantor or gift is part of your plan

3 to 6 months before buying

Gather documents – payslips, bank statements, ID, debt statements
Get pre-approval – ideally fully assessed
Line up your team – conveyancer, building inspector, possibly a buyer's agent
Attend open homes and auctions to get a feel for prices

When you find a property

Tell your broker before you make an offer or bid
Get the contract reviewed by your conveyancer
Organise inspections
Check the property suits your lender (some lenders have rules on small units or certain locations)

After exchange

Formal approval – the lender values the property
Sign loan documents
Arrange insurance
Prepare for settlement

Refinancing timeline

If you're refinancing, start:

2 to 3 months before your fixed rate ends
Any time you notice your rate is higher than market rates
At least once a year for a review

Starting early in 2026

2026 has shown how quickly things can change. The cash rate rose four times, lifting assessment rates and reducing borrowing power for many buyers. The 5% Deposit Scheme expanded, and APRA introduced a debt-to-income limit. Talking to a broker early means you can plan around these changes instead of being surprised by them.

An example

Lily wants to buy her first home in about a year. She speaks to a broker now.

Her broker shows her she'll qualify for the 5% Deposit Scheme.
She learns that her $8,000 credit card limit is reducing her borrowing power, so she lowers it to $2,000.
She starts salary sacrificing into super for the First Home Super Saver Scheme.
Twelve months later, she's pre-approved, organised and ready to buy.

Signs you're ready to start

You're thinking about buying in the next one to two years
You're unsure how much you can borrow
You want to know which schemes you qualify for
You have debts or credit issues to sort out
Your fixed rate is ending soon

What does an early chat cost?

Usually nothing. Most brokers are happy to have an initial conversation at no cost, even if you're a year or more away from buying. It's a low-risk way to get a clear plan and avoid surprises later.

A simple countdown checklist

12 months out: first broker chat, credit check, savings plan
6 months out: stable job, tracked spending, suburb research
3 months out: documents ready, pre-approval, team lined up
Ready to buy: inspections, contract review, offer or bid

Following this countdown means you'll be ready to move when the right home comes along, rather than scrambling to catch up.

Frequently asked questions

Is it too early to talk to a broker if I'm two years away?

No. It's a great time to plan your savings and finances.

Will talking to a broker affect my credit score?

No. A conversation doesn't involve a credit check. A check only happens when you apply.

How long does pre-approval last?

Usually three to six months.

Should I get pre-approval before I start looking?

Yes, ideally before you start looking seriously, so you know your budget.

Talk to Awesome Lending Solutions

Monday, 12 October 2026

How to Choose the Best Mortgage Broker in Australia

This article first appeared on awesomelendingsolutions.com.au.

Around three in four new home loans in Australia are now arranged through mortgage brokers. But not all brokers are the same. The right broker can save you money, time and stress. The wrong one can leave you with a loan that doesn't suit you. Here's how to choose a good mortgage broker.

What does a mortgage broker do?

A mortgage broker helps you find, compare and apply for a home loan. They:

Work out how much you can borrow
Compare loans from a panel of lenders
Explain options in plain English
Check eligibility for government schemes
Prepare and lodge your application
Manage the process through to settlement
Review your loan over time

How are brokers regulated?

Mortgage brokers must hold an Australian Credit Licence or be authorised as a credit representative under a licence. They must:

Follow responsible lending rules
Act in your best interests under the Best Interests Duty
Disclose how they are paid
Belong to the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA)

Many brokers are also members of industry bodies such as the FBAA or MFAA, which have their own standards and training requirements.

What makes a great broker?

1. A wide lender panel

The more lenders a broker can access, the more choice you have. Ask how many lenders they work with, and whether that includes major banks, smaller banks and non-bank lenders.

2. Experience with people like you

First home buyers, investors, self-employed borrowers and single parents all have different needs. Look for a broker with experience in your situation.

3. Clear communication

A good broker explains things simply, answers your questions and keeps you updated. You should never feel rushed or confused.

4. Transparency

A good broker tells you how they're paid, explains why they recommend a loan, and shows you the alternatives.

5. Ongoing support

The best brokers don't disappear after settlement. They review your loan regularly and help you as your life changes.

6. Strong reviews

Check Google reviews and ask friends and family for recommendations.

Questions to ask a broker

Are you licensed, or a credit representative? What is your licence number?
How many lenders do you work with?
How are you paid?
Have you helped people in my situation?
Do you work with lenders that offer the 5% Deposit Scheme and Help to Buy?
Will you review my loan after settlement?
What happens if I'm not happy?

Red flags to watch for

Pressure to sign quickly
Pushing one lender without showing alternatives
Vague answers about fees or commissions
Encouraging you to borrow the maximum
Promising guaranteed approval
Suggesting you leave out information on your application

Why a broker matters more in 2026

2026 has been a big year of change:

The cash rate rose four times to 4.60%
APRA introduced a debt-to-income limit from February
The 5% Deposit Scheme expanded with no income caps
New negative gearing and CGT laws passed
SMSF residential borrowing was banned from August

With so many moving parts, an experienced broker who keeps up with the changes can make a real difference.

Broker or bank?

A bank can only offer its own products. A broker can compare many lenders. That doesn't mean a broker will always find a cheaper loan than your bank, but it means you'll see more options before you decide.

Local knowledge matters

If you're buying in NSW, a broker who knows the local market understands things like scheme price caps by postcode, valuation issues in certain suburbs and NSW stamp duty rules. Local experience can help avoid surprises.

What to bring to your first meeting

To get the most from your first chat, have these ready:

Recent payslips or tax returns
Bank statements showing savings
Details of debts, like credit cards and car loans
A rough idea of your budget and goals

This helps your broker give you a realistic picture from the start.

Frequently asked questions

Does using a broker cost me anything?

For most home loans, brokers are paid by the lender, so there's no direct cost to you. Some brokers charge fees for complex loans. They must tell you upfront.

Can a broker get me a better rate than my bank?

Often, yes, but not always. The value is in comparing the market and finding the right fit.

How do I check a broker's licence?

You can search ASIC's Professional Register for credit licensees and representatives.

Should I use more than one broker?

It's usually best to choose one broker you trust. Multiple brokers can lead to multiple credit enquiries.

Talk to Awesome Lending Solutions

Sunday, 11 October 2026

Home Loan Interest Rates in Australia and NSW: What Drives Them in 2026

This article first appeared on awesomelendingsolutions.com.au.

Interest rates have a huge impact on your home loan repayments. In 2026, rates have been rising, and many Australians are feeling the pinch. Understanding how rates are set, and why your rate might be different from someone else's, can help you get a better deal.

Where rates are in 2026

The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) raised the cash rate four times in 2026: in February, March, May and September. On 29 September 2026, it lifted the cash rate by 0.25% to 4.60%, its highest level since late 2011. The RBA said inflation remained too high and left the door open to further rises.

Most lenders passed these increases on to variable rates. That means many borrowers are paying hundreds of dollars more a month than at the start of the year.

How home loan rates are set

Your home loan rate isn't the same as the cash rate. Lenders set their own rates based on:

The cash rate – the RBA's main tool
Funding costs – what it costs the lender to borrow money
Competition – how hard lenders are chasing new customers
Risk – the type of loan and borrower
Regulation – capital and lending rules from APRA

Why your rate may differ

Two people can borrow from the same lender on the same day and get different rates. That's because rates depend on:

Loan to Value Ratio (LVR) – lower LVRs usually get better rates
Loan purpose – owner-occupied loans are usually cheaper than investment loans
Repayment type – principal and interest is usually cheaper than interest-only
Loan size – bigger loans may get larger discounts
Rate type – fixed and variable rates are priced differently
When you took out the loan – new customers often get better rates than existing ones

Are rates different in NSW?

Most lenders offer the same rates across Australia. However, NSW borrowers tend to have larger loans because of higher property prices. A larger loan means each rate change has a bigger dollar impact. On a $800,000 loan, a 0.25% increase adds roughly $130 a month to repayments.

How to get a better rate

Ask your lender for a rate review. Many lenders will lower your rate if you ask, especially with a competing offer.
Compare the market. New customer rates are often lower.
Lower your LVR. Extra repayments or a higher valuation can unlock better pricing tiers.
Consider refinancing. If your lender won't move, switching could save thousands.
Check your loan type. Moving from interest-only to principal and interest can reduce your rate.

Fixed or variable in a rising rate market?

When rates are rising, some borrowers choose to fix for certainty. Fixed rates are based on what lenders expect rates to do in the future, so they're not always lower than variable rates. A split loan can give you some certainty while keeping flexibility.

Planning for further rises

The RBA has said it may raise rates again if needed. To prepare:

Build a buffer in an offset account
Test your budget at a rate 0.5% to 1% higher
Cut unnecessary spending
Talk to your lender early if you're struggling

An example

Emily has a $700,000 variable loan. At the start of 2026, her rate was 5.64%. After four rises of 0.25% each, her rate is 6.64%.

Repayments at 5.64% over 30 years: about $4,040 a month
Repayments at 6.64%: about $4,490 a month
Increase: about $450 a month

By refinancing to 6.14%, she cuts her repayments to about $4,260, saving around $230 a month.

What the serviceability buffer means

When you apply for a loan, lenders test whether you could afford repayments at your rate plus 3%. As rates rise, this test gets harder to pass, which can reduce how much new borrowers can borrow.

Rates and your borrowing power

Higher rates don't just affect existing borrowers. They also reduce how much new buyers can borrow, because lenders test repayments at a higher assessment rate.

Frequently asked questions

Will rates go down?

No one knows for sure. The RBA has signalled more rises are possible if inflation stays high.

Do lenders pass on rate rises in full?

Usually, but not always. Some lenders pass on more or less than the RBA change.

Should I fix my rate now?

It depends on your budget and need for certainty. Compare fixed rates with variable and consider a split.

How can I find out what rate I could get?

A broker can give you real rate quotes based on your LVR, loan type and situation.