Construction Loans

construction loans img 1

Construction Loans Australia

The great Australian dream has always revolved around owning your own home. But for a growing number of Aussies, this dream involves not just buying but actually building their dream home.

According to the latest statistics from PropTrack, Australians built approximately 170,000 new homes over the year leading up to March 2023.

With a range of government grants now available to Queensland residents willing to build new homes, you may be wondering:

  • What is the best way to finance the construction of a new home?

  • How do construction loans work?

  • Are construction home loans complicated?

  • What kind of documentation will you need to apply for construction finance?

  • Will the builder invoice the lender directly?

  • Are construction payments made upfront or after the work is completed?

  • Do all lenders currently offer construction loans in Australia?

To help you get a better understanding of how these specialised loans work, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide to construction financing for Brisbane residents.

What is Construction Loans?

First of all, what are construction loans? Simply put, it’s a tailored lending solution for borrowers who want to buy land and build a new home. It can also be used to buy and substantially renovate an existing house.

The key difference between standard home loans and construction loans is in the way the loan is structured. With a typical mortgage, you borrow the total amount of the loan, in full, on the day of property settlement. From that date, you are then paying interest on the total balance of the loan.

In contrast, most construction finance loans will be structured with progressive drawdowns. This means that the lender will release the money in instalments (which have been agreed on in advance) throughout the construction project. This ensures that you aren’t paying interest on the entire loan until your new home is completed.

A couple inspect their new home being built with a construction loan

Is Construction Financing More Complicated Than a
Typical Home Loan?

Construction financing can be more complicated than buying an existing house with a typical home loan. Why? Because when you’re building a new house, there are a lot of different parties, or stakeholders, involved in the process.

In a construction project, stakeholders are defined as individuals or groups who have an interest in the project and can influence or be influenced by its outcomes. This includes:

construction financing icon 1

Builders

These are the primary contractors who are responsible for completing the construction work according to the plans. They will handle the bulk of the physical construction tasks, including ordering materials.

construction financing icon 2

Contractors

These are licenced professionals hired by the builders to handle specific aspects of the project, such as electrical, plumbing, HVAC systems, roofing, etc. They ensure the quality and functionality of these systems within the house.

construction financing icon 3

Building Surveyors

They play a crucial role in ensuring the construction project adheres to building codes, regulations and safety standards. They issue the building permit and then periodically inspect the site to ensure permit compliance.

construction financing icon 4

Local Council

The council may be involved in the planning approval process. They review the proposed construction plans, assess compliance with zoning laws and environmental regulations and grant the necessary permits.

construction financing icon 5

Lenders

The lenders provide the necessary funds to finance the construction project. They have a vested interest in ensuring that the project progresses smoothly and according to the agreed-upon terms to minimise financial risks.

construction financing icon 6

Other Qualified Experts

Depending on the complexity of the project and legal requirements, other professionals may provide specialised services throughout the project. This might include solicitors, accountants, architects and engineers.

Each of these parties may have a significant role to play in the construction of a new home. But with so many stakeholders, it’s easy for complications to arise. To prevent issues from happening once the project is already underway, many lenders will want to review additional documentation from all relevant stakeholders before they’re willing to approve a home construction loan.

Can I Get A Regular Home Loan Instead of Construction Financing?

Since applying for a construction finance loan is more complicated than applying for a traditional mortgage, you may be wondering if it’s worth the effort.

Can you just get a regular home loan instead of construction financing? The answer is yes, but only in certain scenarios.

construction loans

STANDARD HOME LOAN

One situation where you may be able to use a traditional mortgage to fund a construction project is if you already own your own home and you have accumulated sufficient equity in the property.

For example, if you only owe $200,000 on your current property, but it has been valued at $600,000, then you have $400,000 in equity. In this scenario, you may be able to refinance your existing home loan to pay for the construction of your new home. Keep in mind though, that you can’t use your not-yet-built house as security for a home loan.

Another situation that might allow for a traditional home loan would be if you already own the block of land and the land value on its own has sufficient equity to cover the cost of the construction project. In this scenario, you could potentially borrow against the land value instead of applying for a construction loan.

The problem with financing a new-build home with a typical mortgage is that you are being charged interest on the full balance of the loan from the very first day. This can be a substantial added cost if you’re already paying off a mortgage or if you’re planning on renting until the new home is built.

CONSTRUCTION HOME LOANS

In the example scenario where you already own a property with sufficient equity, you could refinance your existing home loan to pay for the construction of your new home.

However, if you were to finance the construction of your new home with a standard mortgage, you would be paying interest on the entire loan amount from the start, resulting in higher interest charges.

With a construction loan:

  • The lender will typically make progress payments to the builder as each stage of the construction is completed.

  • You are only charged interest on the amount of the loan that has been drawn down to that point in time.

  • You will only pay interest on the funds you are currently using, rather than the end full loan amount.

  • You will have more flexible repayment options compared to standard home loans. For example, you may choose to make interest-only repayments during the construction period, which can help to reduce your repayments while the new home is being built.

What Paperwork Will You Need to Apply for A
Construction Loan?

So, you’ve decided that a construction loan may be the best option for financing your new home. The next question is: What paperwork will you need before you can apply for construction financing?

When you’re applying for a construction loan, you’ll (first of all) need the standard documents required for a typical home loan application. These include things like proof of income, photo ID and evidence of savings.

Additionally, you’ll also be asked to supply:

These plans don’t need to be approved by Council or a building surveyor, but they should be detailed enough that a valuer can determine the layout, size and design of your proposed new home.

The specifications should include what type of materials are going to be used to build the various parts of the house. For example, will you be using a steel or timber frame? A Colourbond or tiled roof?

The specifications should also include a detailed list of what finishes you’ve chosen for the interior (e.g., tiles, appliances, bathroom fixtures, floor coverings, etc.).

The project specifications help a lender determine how much the property is likely to be worth once it has been completed. This helps to reassure the lender that you won’t be overcapitalising on the project.

When it comes to construction loans Australia has state-specific requirements. Under Queensland law, you don’t have to provide a signed contract (so you aren’t being asked to commit to a project before you have finance approval). However, the contract will need to show the overall cost of the project, the various stages of construction, any exclusions and the estimated build time.

Your builder will be able to provide you with a copy of the contract once you’re ready to apply for finance.

A standard building contract often won’t allow for a range of optional features. This could include solar panels, extensive landscaping, the installation of a pool or the construction of an outdoor entertaining area.

If you want these additions to be covered by your construction finance, then you’ll need to include detailed quotes for these additional works as part of your application.

A couple review house plans and discuss construction loans

How Do Construction Loans Work?

The main difference between construction finance and a traditional home loan is how the loan is structured. With a typical mortgage, the lender releases the entire value of the loan on the day of settlement. The borrower is then charged interest on the full value of the loan from Day 1.

In contrast, a construction loan is structured with progressive drawdowns. These drawdowns are used to make progress payments to the builder when certain predetermined milestones are achieved.

The progress payment schedule will be included in your building contract and the costs associated with each stage are typically calculated based on the percentage of works completed. For example, a certain percentage of the loan will be released when the foundation is completed, followed by an additional percentage once the frame is finished.

The 5 Stages of Building A New House

While progress payment schedules may vary between builders, there are typically five key stages when it comes to building a new house in Australia. These include:

Construction Financing stage 1

Base

This progress payment will be invoiced when the initial foundation for your home has been completed. It may include some excavation and levelling works, footings, pre-plumbing pipework and the pouring of a concrete slab.

Construction Financing stage 2

Frame

The next stage of construction involves putting up the frame for your new home. The frame stage will usually include framing for the external and internal walls, the installation of roof trusses, necessary bracing and the framing out of door and window cavities.

Construction Financing stage 3

Lockup

Once the frame is finished the builders will start closing up the building (getting it ready to ‘lock up’). This will include finishing the external walls, installing the roof cladding and fitting doors and windows into the frame.

Once the building is secured (so no one can access it without a key), then the lockup stage is complete.

Construction Financing stage 4

Fixing

The fixing stage refers to the internal carpentry (such as fitting door jambs, skirting boards and architraves) plus the installation of fixtures and finishes.

This is the stage where you’ll see plastering, painting, cabinetry, tiling, carpet laying and other interior design elements being completed. The fixing stage will also involve licensed trades such as plumbers and electricians.

Construction Financing stage 5

Completion

The completion payment will only be invoiced once the house is completely finished.

The final stage covers any finishing touch-ups, punch list items, quality control requests and the final cleaning of the building.

construction loans

How Is the Construction Progress Payment Schedule Calculated?

Although building progress payment schedules can be customised to suit the scope of work, most Queensland builders will use the schedule set out in the HIA New Homes Construction Contract. This contract recommends the following progress payment schedule for new houses being built in Queensland:

  • Initial Deposit: 5% of the contract total.

  • Base Stage Complete: 15% of the contract total.

  • Frame Stage Complete: 20% of the contract total.

  • Lockup Stage Complete: 25% of the contract total.

  • Fixing Stage Complete: 20% of the contract total.

  • Project Completed: Remaining 15% of the contract total.

Builders may sometimes want to change the percentages of progress payments so that the bulk of the cost is paid earlier in the project. This reduces the risk for the builder but increases the risk for the lender (if something goes wrong with the project part-way through). Because of this, some lenders may object if builders try to make substantial changes to the HIA-recommended progress payment schedule.

Once the construction finance has been approved, the builder will need to provide the lender with a Council-approved building plan, a copy of the project insurance policy and a finalised drawdown schedule.

How Are Payments Made on Construction Home Loans?

As your builder completes each stage of the construction project, they will issue you with a progress payment invoice. This invoice should be forwarded to your lender with a request for a drawdown on the construction loan. Your lender can then arrange for each progress payment to be transferred directly to the builder (typically within 5 business days of the request being received).

However, some lenders will want to verify that the works have been completed to the satisfaction of an independent valuer before they’re willing to make the payment. This acts as a protection for you, as it ensures you’re not paying for work that hasn’t yet been completed. But it can also create minor delays in the project.

To minimise potential delays, make sure you clearly understand what your lender requires before they can release a progress payment. Some lenders may just need a signed copy of the invoice, while others may also want you to submit a form along with the invoice.

Being ready to submit all the necessary paperwork as soon as the builder issues an invoice will help to keep the project moving on schedule.

Construction home loans finance a new build that is now at frame stage
A man meets with his broker to discuss construction home loans

How is Interest Calculated on Construction Loans in Australia?

With interest-only construction loans, your lender will only charge you interest on the progress payments that have already been paid.

For example, the total cost of your construction loan might be $350,000. After the initial deposit is released, you’ll only be charged interest on 5% of the loan total (if using the HIA-recommended progress payment schedule). This works out to be $17,500.

After the base stage is completed, you’d be charged interest on $70,000, or 20% of the total loan (5% deposit + 15% base stage progress payment).

With this kind of loan structure, the amount of interest charged will gradually increase with time. However, it can significantly reduce the amount of interest that you will have to pay over the life of the loan.

Once the construction is completed you may have the option to continue with an interest-only loan for a period of time. But more likely, your construction finance loan will change to a principal and interest repayment structure (where you’ll start paying back the balance of the money borrowed, not just the interest). At this point, your construction loan would revert to the typical structure used on standard mortgages.

It’s a good idea to be familiar with your loan structure (and any scheduled changes) from the very beginning so you don’t end up with any unexpected surprises once you’re ready to move into your brand-new home.

An experienced construction finance mortgage broker will be able to talk you through the various pros and cons of different loan structures and answer any lingering questions that you may have.

Do All Major Lenders Offer Construction Loans?

Construction loans in Australia are available from most of the big banks. However, just like with any loan, it’s important to carefully consider all of the relevant details (including fees, charges, interest rates, conditions and loan features) before making a final decision.

Currently, not all of the smaller lenders are offering construction loans, likely because they come with a higher level of risk and are more labour-intensive for the lender to process and manage.

To minimise potential delays, make sure you clearly understand what your lender requires before they can release a progress payment. Some lenders may just need a signed copy of the invoice, while others may also want you to submit a form along with the invoice.

A construction finance mortgage broker will be able to compare a range of lenders and finance products to determine which construction loan is going to best suit your personal situation.

A couple with 2 small children move into their brand new home that they financed with construction loans

Tips for Getting Approved for Construction Loans Australia

Lenders will scrutinise your credit score to assess your financial reliability. A good credit score increases your chances of loan approval.

If your score is low, work on improving it by paying off debts and sorting out any errors on your credit report. A higher credit score signals to lenders that you’re a low-risk borrower, enhancing your chances of securing a competitive construction loan.

A comprehensive building contract is crucial for demonstrating to lenders that you have a well-thought-out plan for your construction project.

Having a contract that includes a fixed price, a clear timeline and other relevant details shows the lender that you’re committed to the project and that you’ve done your homework.

It also reassures the lender that you’re working with reputable builders and have a solid plan in place for completing the project.

Getting pre-approval for your construction loan before you finalise all your plans can help streamline the application process.

It provides a clear picture of your borrowing capacity, which will help you to make informed decisions about your project’s scope and budget.

Pre-approval also gives you added leverage when negotiating with builders and contractors, as you know exactly how much you can afford to spend.

Accurate cost estimates are essential for ensuring you have enough funds to complete the construction project. Make sure you include all associated costs such as council fees, permits and professional fees in your estimates.

This transparency not only helps you budget effectively but also reassures lenders that you have a realistic understanding of the project’s financial requirements, reducing the risk of funding delays.

Selecting a reputable builder with a proven track record is key to gaining lenders’ confidence. A builder’s experience and past successes demonstrate their ability to complete projects on time and within budget.

Lenders are more likely to approve your loan when they see that you’re working with a trusted professional who can deliver quality results, minimising the risks associated with the construction project.

Consulting a mortgage broker or financial advisor can provide valuable insights and guidance throughout the construction financing process.

A broker with experience in construction finance can help you navigate the complexities of construction loans so that you fully understand all your options. They can also help you to prepare your application in a way that will optimise your chances of approval. Their expertise ensures that you’re well-prepared and ideally positioned to secure the financing you need for your construction project.

A couple apply for construction loans with the help of their mortgage broker

How to Apply for Construction Home Loans in Brisbane

If you’re interested in applying for a construction loan in Brisbane, then start by talking to a Brisbane mortgage broker. A mortgage broker can explain what options you have available to you when it comes to financing the construction of your new home. They can also advise which loan products will offer the best solution.

Additionally, when you talk to a construction finance broker, you’re covered by ‘Best Interests Duty’. This legislation (which doesn’t apply to banks) ensures that a broker is always working in your best interests, giving you total peace of mind that you can trust their advice.

If you’ve been considering building a home with a construction loan, but don’t know where to start, North Brisbane Home Loans experts can help. Our brokers have extensive experience in construction financing and are familiar with the local market here in Brisbane.

Why Choose North Brisbane Home Loans for Construction Financing?

When you partner with North Brisbane Home Loans, you’re gaining access to a great range of benefits that can save you time, money and a whole lot of stress.

5 Star Review Rating

Being a top-rated finance broker in Brisbane, we put your needs first and genuinely want to help you achieve your property ownership dreams with the best home loan products.

We have hundreds of verified reviews from happy customers and a 5-star Google review rating.

Experienced Mortgage Brokers

With more than 100 years of combined experience in the finance industry, our expert team of brokers can confidently offer you the best advice.

This means we can accurately compare finance products and recommend the ideal loan to suit your needs.

We Work For You – Not The Banks

We don’t charge any fees for our construction loan services, since our commission comes from whichever lender you decide to choose.

This means our brokers are by your side, every step of the way, to ensure you end up with the right loan.

Exclusive Partner Network

Not only do we provide you with the best advice on your construction loan needs, but we’ll also introduce you to our network of trusted partners offering discounted rates.

Save time and money searching for reliable conveyancers, solicitors and more.

Personalised Service

Our team is dedicated to providing personalised service tailored to your specific needs and circumstances.

Whether you’re a first-time home builder or an experienced property developer, we take the time to understand your goals and offer customised solutions.

Streamlined Process

We pride ourselves on offering a streamlined and hassle-free process for obtaining construction financing.

Our experienced mortgage brokers guide you through every step of the loan application and approval process, minimising stress and preventing any avoidable delays.

FAQs on Construction Financing

How do I qualify for a home construction loan?

You’ll need to have a good credit rating and sufficient income in order to qualify for a construction loan.

You’ll also need to supply a range of specific documentation, including project plans and specifications, a proposed building contract and quotes for any additional works that you want to include (such as a swimming pool or the installation of solar panels).

The lender will have assessors/valuers review your plans to check that the proposed works are feasible and won’t overcapitalise on your property’s value.

What types of construction loans are available in Australia?

The most common types of home loans in Australia are:

  1. Construction-only loans: Where funds are released in stages as construction progresses.
  2. Construction-to-permanent loans: These automatically convert to a traditional mortgage after construction is complete.
  3. Owner-builder loans: For those building their own homes without a licensed builder.
  4. Renovation loans: For refurbishing or extending existing properties.
  5. Land and construction loans: Finance for both land purchase and construction costs. These loans offer flexibility to suit various construction needs and borrower situations.

To find out what kind of loan would best suit your needs, contact an experienced construction finance broker.

What is a variable rate construction loan?

A variable rate construction loan has a variable interest rate, which means that the interest rate can change over time. This type of loan can offer more flexibility but may be subject to interest rate fluctuations.

What is a fixed rate construction loan?

A fixed rate construction loan has a fixed interest rate, which means that the interest rate remains the same for a set period. This type of loan can offer more certainty (since you know your repayments won’t change) but may be less flexible than a variable rate loan.

How long does it take to get approved for construction financing in Australia?

The timeframe for approval can vary depending on the lender and the complexity of the project. It is important to allow sufficient time for the application process.

What is a progress payment in construction financing?

A progress payment is a payment made to the builder by the lender at certain milestones during the construction process, such as on completion of the foundation or after the house frame is finished.

Can I use the equity in my existing home to fund a new construction project?

Yes, if you have sufficient equity in your existing home, you may be able to use this to fund a new construction project. This can be done through a refinance or by using the equity as security for a construction loan.

Can I get construction financing for a renovation project?

Yes, you can get construction financing for a renovation project. Renovation construction financing can be used to fund substantial home renovations, such as adding an extension or completely revamping the interior of the home.

This type of financing typically requires a detailed building contract and a fixed-price quote from a licensed builder. The lender may also require you to provide plans, permits and other documentation to assess the feasibility and value of the renovation project.

Construction financing may not be suited to smaller renovation projects such as simple cosmetic upgrades or a basic kitchen renovation. In this case, you may be better off obtaining a personal loan or enquiring about a top-up (cash-out)  to your existing home loan.

Do I need to have a builder lined up before applying for construction financing?

Yes, most lenders will require you to have a builder lined up and a detailed building contract in place before approving a construction loan. The contract doesn’t need to be signed, but it will need to include all relevant details, including the progress payment schedule. You can get the build loan pre-approved without a building contract to hand, so at least you know that you can move forward however.

Can I change the plans during the construction process?

Changes to the plans during the construction process may be possible, but typically require approval from the lender and may result in additional fees. Any changes to the plans must also comply with local building regulations and may require additional permits or inspections.

It’s important to communicate any proposed changes with your builder and lender as early as possible to minimise delays and costs. Some lenders may also require you to obtain written consent from your lender before making any changes to the plans and may charge a fee for reviewing and approving the changes.

Before making any changes to the plans, consult with your builder and lender to understand the implications for the construction timeline, budget and financing.

How is the progress of the construction project monitored?

The progress of the construction project is typically monitored by the lender or an independent valuer. They may want to inspect the property at each stage of construction before releasing funds. This helps to ensure quality control throughout the project.

What happens if the project takes longer than expected?

If the project takes longer than expected, you may need to apply for an extension of the loan or you may be required to make additional payments to cover the extra interest charges.

Can I use a construction loan to build a duplex or multi-unit development?

Yes, a construction loan can be used to build a duplex or multi-unit development. However, these kinds of projects may be subject to additional requirements and fees.

What happens if I sell the property before the construction loan is paid off?

If you sell the property before the construction loan is paid off, the loan will need to be repaid in full at the time of sale.

What happens if the builder goes bankrupt during the construction process?

If a builder goes bankrupt during construction, it can cause delays and financial complications. The lender may require you to find a new builder to complete the project or they may choose to appoint a new builder themselves.

In this situation, it is imperative that you contact your broker for advice as soon as possible to minimise potential costs and delays.

5.0 STAR REVIEWS

NBHL Brokers for Brisbane Home Loan Reviews

5.0
Based on 303 reviews
powered by Google
kelly dalby
04:21 04 Apr 24
The best customer service ever! The team is still getting us fantastic rates and deals years later after our initial consultation... without asking!! They just do it!! Brilliant to deal with and would absolutely use them again and again.
Mackenzie Vandeberg
04:48 03 Apr 24
Pat and Fiona are a dream team. As nervous first home buyers, they stepped us through everything. They were very accessible for appointments and had frequent, open communication I needed at all stages of the process. They are thorough and experts at what they do, helping us to get into a property faster and easier than we thought possible. They also got us an amazing interest rate. Highly recommend to anyone and will definitely be using them in the future for any subsequent purchases or refinancing.
Cassidy Hardingham
07:03 27 Mar 24
Pat, Di and Jake were amazing to work with. We are first home buyers and they really helped us through the process and took the time to explain every little detail. Very friendly and down to earth. Would 100% recommend!
Darren Stoneman
07:21 25 Mar 24
Brendan helped us find a loan perfect for us and our situation. Always happy to answer any questions and was very friendly. Would recommended the team here at NBH.
Steph Jessup
04:53 21 Mar 24
Pat and the team helped us secure our second mortgage and could not have been more helpful. They know their stuff and go above and beyond. Would highly recommend!!
Meditech Service
12:43 15 Mar 24
Pat and his team are a league to their own, nothing but acute professional care with knowledge to match. Even with the banks being difficult they fought a good fight and got me approval. This is my 3rd mortgage with them and I won’t go anywhere elseA*
Ryan Cameron
05:30 08 Mar 24
Very happy with the product and service provided by these guys, would recommend/use again
Antoinette Both
00:50 21 Feb 24
Exceptional service. I have used Pat for a number of years and he has always provided exceptional service. He provides clear and professional advice and always made sure the process was easy. I have used him for new mortgages as well as refinancing and every time it is seamless.I highly recommend Pat and his team to anyone looking for finance.
Chloe Foster
00:21 17 Feb 24
Best broker in town! . We’ve bought and sold a number of properties using other brokers, however our last purchase was the best experience we have ever had! Customer service and skill were on point and the speed and efficiency of the application was amazing. Patrick and his team went above and beyond to give us an experience that left us without stress and got us into our new home with ease. Cannot recommend these guys enough. They will have our business forever!
B C
02:11 16 Feb 24
NBHL provide great service. They provide straightforward advice & their communication is fantastic
Ian Cossart
05:34 11 Feb 24
We recently engaged NBHL as our mortgage broker. Could not be happier with the whole team. The process was smooth, timely and painless. They provided fantastic advise along the way and went out of their way ensuring that we understood everything. I highly recommend the team at NBHLs. They were brilliant!
Joanne Nelson
23:06 07 Feb 24
Patrick and his team are very people focused. They took the time to walk me through what can be a minefield, provided options and explained the process. I was so grateful for their updates and communication throughout the process. Knowing they were in control gave me confidence and that nothing was missed and the outcomewas exactly as discussed with no surprises. I will continue to use their services, it's a great family and local business.
Mattie Ryan
22:29 04 Feb 24
The best in the businessWe have bought a number of properties over the years. Pat and and the team make everything so easy for us. Pat’s knowledge and expertise has saved us so much money over the years, and we will continue to go back to NBHL time after time.
Braden Twomey
02:52 31 Jan 24
Excellent service and knowledge. Pat and Jake were able to support through the entire process and were contactable almost every step of the process. They supported my loan preferences and knew the right angles to take to ensure successful loan approval and settlement.
Elaine Lawry
02:24 22 Jan 24
Invaluable advice . We have engaged Pat and his team several times over the last 15-20 years, whenever we have needed to refinance. Each time the experience has been trouble free, taking all the pressure off us to wade through everything ourselves enabling us to make informed decisions about our home loans. We have even recommended Pat and his team to family members who have also had a very positive experience.
Emma Eyre
01:18 15 Jan 24
We highly recommend the service of Pat and the team at NBHL. Pat is extremely knowledgeable and professional, and works in an engaging and personable manner. Communication is always prompt, and we have been incredibly satisfied with the result each time we've worked with the team.
Long Dinh
05:51 02 Jan 24
Outstanding, informative & efficient!Pat and the team have a truly spectacular and streamline business. Their secure platform, digital systems and informative communications & instruction helped us broker a competitive loan and secure a property. With how busy life can get, having North Brisbane Home Loans provide their services has been an absolute stress saver!
Mel Small
05:24 20 Dec 23
Best in the business!I have been doing business with NBHL for quite some time as Patrick is an exceptional Mortgage Broker! He is professional, very knowledgeable, and quick to respond to any questions I had regarding my home loan, he consistently exceeds my expectations. I highly recommend Patrick and his team to anyone applying for a home loan or just wanting to refinance.
Madelinne Davillo
23:32 18 Dec 23
We just recently purchased our first home with the help of NBHL amazing team! They have made this process so much easier due to their efficiency and outstanding communication. I cannot recommend them enough. Thank you so much Pat, Fiona and Di!
Elaelah
04:58 18 Dec 23
Pat and Jake helped me and my partner through so many questions when getting our first home loan! I can't imagine having a better crew on my team. I learnt so much, and felt like I had some great friends looking out for me along the way. Definitely recommend!
Andrew Lawry
00:09 15 Dec 23
Brodie
05:46 13 Dec 23
Excellent service, highly recommend
Ben Price
06:22 06 Dec 23
North Brisbane Home Loans stands out as best in the business for home loans. Pat and his team’s commitment to first class service and transparent communication make them leaders in their field. Their seamless and stress-free approach ensures clients receive a second-to-none service. I confidently recommend Pat and the team at North Brisbane Home Loans. Thanks team!
Bogdan Zolotic
06:13 01 Dec 23
Pat and Jake were amazing, really want to shout out Jake for the effort he went to making sure that everything ran smoothly I couldn’t recommend the team more they were quick and made sure to follow up on every loose end and we ended up making the deadline and securing the place we wanted, you can see why they have such good reviews, even the little care package at the end with the letter addressed to us with the gifts the reviews really do show how much the team care about the work that that they do.Bogdan & Eleanor
Kanchana Murugesh
01:42 30 Nov 23
Immense market knowledge and very professional. He has a very good experience and knowledge on the current market. He really paid attention to every detail and updated with the info needed. Due to his timely action, we were able to buy our First Home on time. 🙂 Grateful to him and the Team.
Tim Keleher
04:40 29 Nov 23
Easy and stress free . My wife and I have used Patrick a number of times and this time was no different to other experiences with him. He was always on hand to answer any questions and put our minds at ease. Patrick’s technology based approach made getting all our documents from our existing bank accounts into a format required for reviewing was brilliant to use. Anyone considering a new loan I would highly recommend Patrick Cranshaw and his services.
Adrian Girgenti
23:45 16 Nov 23
Wonderful experience with Pat, Fiona and the team at NBHL. As a first home buyer, they made it simple for me to understand and were very responsive to my questions and concerns. Thank you!
Lauren Maidens
10:56 09 Nov 23
Aidan Cureton
04:41 08 Nov 23
Pat and his team were a pleasure to work with while we were looking for our first home. I want to pay special thanks to Jake, who truly went above and beyond for us and was always happy to answer our questions (which there were many of)
Emilie Gehrke
02:14 07 Nov 23
The team at NBHL have been amazing throughout our whole time with them. As first home buyers they’ve made the process a lot more easier & stress free. Huge thanks to Pat & Fiona!
Brittany Adams
12:09 19 Oct 23
Thank you Patrick, Di and team. We really appreciate all the help and information you provided us with our first home loan. NBHL made the process simple and easy to go through. You and your team were very quick to answer any queries we had and easy to get in touch with. We will definitely be using the NBHL team again in the future.I recently had the pleasure of working with Patrick again after 3 years for our refinance, and I couldn’t be happier with the experience. Patrick, Jake and the whole team were extremely knowledgeable, professional, and patient as we navigated the whole process. They took the time to understand our needs and preferences, and found us the best suited option. The use of their portals to upload information and documents is a game changer! I would also like to mention the articles in the monthly newsletters are quite in depth and have been incredibly insightful. I have highly recommend Patrick and NBHL to friends, family and colleagues. See you next time! Cheers!
Nicola Barnes
22:10 12 Oct 23
Fantastic support and experience! . My partner and I loved our experience with the Brokers, they were always knowledgeable, supportive and friendly in all communications. We were a little sad to stop our regular catch ups once we had our new home!
Trish Catley
04:04 12 Oct 23
I can not recommend Pat and his team enough!They went above and beyond to help us get our loan at the best deal and worked around the clock for usCannot thank then enough!
Annaliese Jade H
07:11 10 Oct 23
Pat and the NBHL team are so helpful and easy to deal with. I used them for my first home purchase a few year ago, and recently for a refinance. Both times they were responsive and proactive, and able to answer all our questions in easy to understand terms. I won't hesitate to use them again next time
Ellen Jenkins
09:35 07 Oct 23
Pat and his team were fantastic to deal with for the purchase of our first home. Not only were we guided to a great rate, the hassle and stress was minimised greatly! Thanks NBHL, we’re super excited to be in our first home with your assistance.
prakash n
02:43 03 Oct 23
The best mortgage broker I have dealt with. My application was not straight forward due my partner is on a different visa. I did try few other brokers before I reached out to NBHL, none of them had a correct approach or answers for my situation. But Patrick and team have experience dealing with similar situation to mine, he took time explaining every single possibility and how to approach them.Any issues you come across, they will know how to handle it.Would definitely recommend to friends and family.
Amara N
05:38 29 Sep 23
I can highly recommend Pat Cranshaw and his team for prompt, honest and professional advice. I very much appreciated Pat's knowledgeable advice on refinancing my home loan . Thank you and best wishes to Pat and his team.
Russell Vosseler
08:36 25 Sep 23
Pat, Jake & their team are absolutely great at securing the best rate. I have been using them for many years now, and always consult them for refinancing every 1-2 years to check what is the best rate available to me. They are able to negotiate much better rates with the banks than if you go to the banks directly.
Lloyd Finucane
04:48 19 Sep 23
Without pre-approval, Pat and Jake allowed us to buy ourselves the house we wanted. They managed to get us financial approval with a lender perfect for us in only 6 days.We are very happy with our experience and would recommend others to use NBHL when looking for a fast and easy borrowing experience.
Shane Clarke
09:40 14 Sep 23
Highly Professional and helpful. I would highly recommend Pat and his team!! Our situation was slightly complex, however they guided us through the process and were able to achieve a successful outcome.Their professionalism and communication with us were of the highest order. I would highly recommend Pat to anyone looking for a homeloan!!
Bernadette Gillies
00:19 13 Sep 23
Seamless from start to finish! Pat and his team were amazing. The whole process was so easy and painless. The application process was seamless from the upload of supporting docs right through to the actual signing of loan application and mortgage docs. Pat and his team were there to support us every step of the way with regular contact and simple explanations. I can’t thank them enough.
Carolyn R
11:59 12 Sep 23
I can’t thank the team at North Brisbane Home Loans enough for getting my home loan unconditionally approved today after an unexpected last-minute hiccup. From the very first call I had with Pat, talking me through the process and various options, to liaising with Di and Jake through the pre-approval process and then having Fiona on speed dial over the past week or so, answering all my calls and diligently working to get full approval while up against the clock - everything was done promptly and efficiently, with all communications clearly setting out what was required at every stage to make the whole process seem less daunting. Nothing was too much trouble for this friendly, helpful, calm-under-fire, amazing team. Woohoo! Thank you, thank you, thank you! Team work really does make the dream work and NBHL are the dream team. Thanks again!
This is the second time we have used Pat and the team; this most recent venture was exceptionally complicated, daunting and stressful. However Pat and Jake almost made it simple. They responded to my 1000 panicked emails with patience and clarity, never sugar coating anything. All the legalities were made transparent and easy to understand. We are so happy to say as from today, this amazing team of professionals played a very big part in bringing a very traumatic previous 18 months for our family to an end, with our new home purchase becoming unconditional literally hours ago. We can't thank them enough, it's been a long journey, but we made it thanks to them. If there was an option to pop down 10 stars, we wouldn't hesitate. Thanks, NBHL
Danielle Swann
06:28 26 Aug 23
Very helpful. Patrick was very professional and easy to deal with, and I felt that I could ask all the silly questions during the home loan refinancing process and get real answers and still be taken seriously. He took his time to explain my different options thoroughly, and made the process as smooth as possible once a decision had been made.
Sarah Kolkka
05:12 23 Aug 23
10/10 recommend. Pat recently helped my husband and I remortgage our home and the whole process was simple and effortless. I always felt like Pat and his team were working hard for us and we were looped in through the whole process. Would absolutely recommend 🙂
Nathan Gerchow
00:11 21 Aug 23
Reanna Harper
00:42 11 Aug 23
Exceptional Broker and Team - Honest, Prompt and Realistic. Highly recommend Patrick and the Team he works with. Our trusted broker that we go to repeatedly for mortgaging and refinancing. Always honest and seeks products that fit primary needs, plus offers valuable and realistic advice. The only broker we refer our friends and family to! Always in touch with us on time, made refinancing easy, friendly and upfront - every member of the Pat's team answered all our questions and laid out the steps ahead well in advance of settlement. Refinancing couldn't have gone any smoother! Only praise to share. We will continue to use Pat indefinitely.
Chloe S
07:13 10 Aug 23
That AUS FAMILY
00:16 10 Aug 23
Great experience
Gavin Shields
23:09 08 Aug 23
Excellent customer service, advice and attention to detail.Have now used NBHL for re-financing our home loan and to purchase our investment property. Can highly recommend.
Johan Van Zyl
21:50 24 Jul 23
Luke was great. Very professional. Recommend NBL services.
Kallum Francis
11:42 24 Jul 23
Luke and the team at NBHL were a pleasure to deal with throughout the entire process of buying our first home. Luke was always contactable and made the effort to answer all our queries promptly and simplify the entire journey. As first home buyers we couldn't imagine buying without the help of such a knowledgeable team that has put a great emphasis on customer care.
Royce khan
06:27 04 Jul 23
I am writing to express our sincerest gratitude for the exceptional assistance you provided us in navigating the complex process of securing a home loan. Your professionalism, clear communication, unwavering transparency, and adept use of technology truly set you apart.You consistently ensured that we understood each step of the home loan process. Your ability to explain complex financial terms in a simplified manner made us feel confident and empowered in making informed decisions.Moreover, your expertise in utilising technology to streamline the loan application process was truly remarkable. From secure online document submission to virtual meetings, you effortlessly incorporated modern tools into our interactions. This not only saved time but also demonstrated your commitment to staying at the forefront of industry trends, ensuring a smooth and efficient experience.Once again, thank you for everything you have done. I wish you continued success in your endeavours, and may your expertise positively impact many more individuals like myself.Well done Team North Brisbane Home Loans!!
E Viennet
22:01 26 Jun 23
6 years ago we used NBHL service to buy our house/land package as a first time owner in Australia. Pat, Di and the team have been really professional. Everything went so smoothly. A month ago, we contacted NBHL to discuss any possibility to buy an investment property. Luke has been awesome, and went through all the options in details. Here, again the communication was great and everything went smoothly. Highly recommended.
Nicholas Thorburn
03:24 24 Jun 23
Hassle-free re-finance. Pat and the team from North Brisbane Home Loans made our complicated re-finance very easy. The team go out of their way to ensure a smooth loan application/transfer process. Second time with this great experience from the NBHL team, highly recommended.
Alicia Pharoah
06:19 15 Jun 23
Friendly, professional service for expat loan refinancing. Pat, Di and team were incredibly helpful, patient, and flexible while finding an Aussie non-resident refinancing solution for me. These days that is no easy task!They kept me informed at every stage of the process from the solution hunting, to the decision making and throughout the closing process.Their services were invaluable and I couldn’t recommend them highly enough.
Just Teenz
01:23 11 May 23
I contacted Pat at North Brisbane Home Loans based on their reviews. From the minute I spoke with Pat I felt at ease with his knowledge, experience, friendliness and felt straight away that he had our best interests at heart.Pat, Di and the team at North Brisbane Home Loans are so lovely and took away a lot of the stress of the whole process by communicating regularly and by explaining in detail all answers to any questions we had. They guided us through every step of the way and now thanks to the team we are in our dream home.Thank you all so much, we are over the moon!10/10 recommend!
Celene Keepence
23:28 23 Mar 23
Pat, Di, and the team at North Brisbane Home Loans are fantastic. They supported us every step of the way in our home loan application/home buying journey, and we couldn't be happier with the service recieved. They made the process so easy for us and we will definitely use their services again. We highly recommend!
Hayden Meyers
05:52 12 Feb 23
The team at North Brisbane Home Loans were phenomenal from the very first point of contact. Pat was amazing in taking us through a step by step guide on how to purchase our first home!They were extremely responsive throughout the entire process with consistent and reliable communication.Would recommend to anyone looking to get into the market with a knowledgeable Broker!Thankyou.
Laura Cromb-Smith
06:47 27 Dec 22
The most amazing service from Pat & Di at NBHL. Their expertise and patience throughout the entire process made it feel easy to buy our first home. Their guidance and support was immeasurable and we couldn’t have done it without them!Thanks to the team at NBHL for everything.
Katie Chittenden
02:05 01 Dec 22
Fantastic mortgage Broker!We used Pat and his team when we originally bought our first home back in 2017, and they were so fabulous that we went back to them this year (2022) to re-mortgage and change up our home loan. They do a wonderful job - great communication and dedication to get you the best rates possible. They also fix any mistakes the bank makes for you, quickly and efficiently. Can't rate them high enough, we will definitely be going back to them in the future.
Betty Visensang
21:18 23 Oct 22
Knowledgeable, Professional and CalmBack in 2021 a colleague referred me to Patrick, we weren’t ready to buy yet but wanted to meet Pat as he had helped my colleague with his family home, plus 2 additional investment properties. My colleague was so impressed by the services offered by Pat that I had to meet him for myself! He didn’t disappointment, we decided after our first meeting on a plan and locked in to touch base again in a years time!1 year later, everything was in place and Pat helped us put everything in place and we are now proudly living in our new family home!Many healthily conversations were had, and Pat is really knowledgeable but we also appreciate his cool and calm manner.We will not hesitate to refer him and North Shore Home Loans to friends and family. We will also definitely be reaching out again when we expand our investment portfolio in the future.
Brianna Dobing
09:46 09 Jun 22
We had a great experience with North Brisbane Home Loans. Our broker was Luke and he was excellent in listening to what we needed and providing us with loan options that would work for our situation. We liked the videos they provided explaining the product options and recommendations. Being able to watch the videos in our own time was helpful. Fiona was amazing in collating all our information and documents and working with the bank once we did find a house. The communication and customer service was superb. I would recommend NBHL.
Rachael Wishart
09:28 25 May 22
The team at North Brisbane Home Loans were phenomenal from the very first point of contact. Luke was brilliant in taking us through a step by step guide on how to achieve our goals, provided us with useful resources, and was very willing to answer all questions we had as first home buyers. We had a tight settlement timeline and the team (Luke and Fiona in particular) made it appear effortless. They were extremely responsive throughout the entire process with consistent and reliable communication. We could not recommend NBHL highly enough!
Trish Chand
06:37 14 Mar 22
My husband and I are grateful to Luke, Fiona and the team at North Brisbane Home Loans they are absolutely brilliant to deal with.We had a very pleasant experience with Luke he took the time to investigate several different scenarios to get us the best possible product and solution. Luke and Fiona were very responsive to our queries even calling after hours when necessary. While we were first time home buyers they reassured us every step of the way, confident in their advice and decision. Their patience and willingness to walk us step by step each process over the phone was greatly appreciated.Overall a very efficient and professional organisation you won’t be disappointed.
Tam
10:57 06 Sep 21
I had an absolutely amazing experience with North Brisbane Home Loans. I was able to buy my first home with the advice, help and professional guidance of Pat and his team. I was very well looked after from the minute I reached out. Everything was handled in a very friendly, professional and timely manner. Whenever I was worried, unsure or needed assurance I was replied to promptly with everything I needed to know. The team were even willing to drive to my workplace to ensure all of my documentation could be signed and submitted promptly. I cannot recommend them enough!
js_loader