Savvy homeowners refinance their home loans to secure competitive interest rates and better mortgage terms. Even when interest rates are rising, refinancing can save you thousands of dollars over the life of your loan, so it’s definitely worth considering if you’re looking to save money on your mortgage. What role does a mortgage broker play in refinancing? How can they help you with a mortgage refinance?
How to Refinance a Home Loan: 8 Steps to Follow
Looking to give your mortgage a makeover? With the help of a trusted NBHL mortgage broker, refinancing has never been easier! Here are 8 simple steps to guide you through the process:
1
Define Your Goals and Financial Situation
The first step when you refinance a home loan is to evaluate your current mortgage and financial situation. Define your financial objectives and determine if refinancing aligns with your needs. Whether it’s lowering your repayments, accessing equity, or consolidating debts, check to see if refinancing is your best recourse for these.
2
Crunch the Numbers
Calculate the potential savings you will get with a refinance based on your current financial situation. A trusted mortgage broker can identify any potential penalties or fees for refinancing, such as exit fees or break costs to inform you. Then check your financial situation, which includes your income, expenses, and credit score.
3
Ask a Mortgage Broker for Assistance
An experienced broker will help you do research on refinancing options with different lenders and compare their loan products. They can explain factors such as variable vs. fixed rates, repayment options, offset accounts, and loan terms. They can help you find lenders that offer competitive rates and favourable terms that align with your financial goals.
4
Gather Documentation
Collect the necessary documentation required for the refinancing process. This may include proof of income, bank statements, identification documents, and details about your current loan. Having these documents ready will streamline the application process for refinancing your home loan.
5
Submit an Application
Submit a pre-approval application to your chosen lender. The lender will assess your application, creditworthiness, and the value of your property to determine if you meet their criteria for refinancing.
By using a mortgage broker, you can take the stress out of your application because your loan broker will ensure your application is the best it can be and submit it on your behalf.
6
Receive and Review Loan Offer
If your pre-approval is successful, the lender will provide you with a formal loan offer. Review the terms and conditions, including the interest rate, loan term, fees, and repayment schedule. Pay close attention to any potential fees or penalties associated with the new loan.
7
Get Help for Your Valuation and Legal Needs
Engage professionals to conduct a property valuation and handle the legal aspects of refinancing. A solicitor or conveyancer can review the loan documents and provide guidance to ensure your interests are protected.
8
Settlement and Savings
Once you are satisfied with the loan offer and have received the necessary advice for it, you can formally accept the offer from the lender. Your mortgage broker will guide you through the settlement process and will facilitate every step from
finalising the paperwork, paying off your existing loan, to transferring the mortgage to the new lender. Your new loan will then be in effect, and you can start making repayments as per the agreed terms.
Factors to Consider When Refinancing a Home Loan
When you refinance a home loan, you essentially replace your current mortgage with a new loan from the same, or a different, lender. Any reputable mortgage broker Brisbane homeowners can trust will know what fees and terms to explain to you when you decide to take this path with your mortgage. Some of the things factors they can explain to you include the following:
Refinancing allows you to potentially secure a lower interest rate on your new loan. A lower interest rate can result in reduced monthly repayments, saving you money over the life of the loan.
When you refinance, you may have the opportunity to adjust the repayment terms of your loan. You can choose a shorter loan term to pay off your mortgage faster or extend the term to lower your monthly repayments, depending on your financial goals and affordability.
With refinancing, you can select loan features that better suit your needs. This may include options such as an offset account, which can help you save on interest by offsetting your mortgage balance with your savings, or a redraw facility, which allows you to access any additional repayments you have made.
Depending on the new loan terms and interest rate, your monthly repayments may increase or decrease. Lowering your monthly repayments can free up cash flow for other purposes, while higher repayments can help you pay off your loan faster.
Refinancing can also provide an opportunity to consolidate other high-interest debts, such as credit cards or personal loans, into your new home loan. This can simplify your finances and potentially lower your overall interest costs.
Refinancing can offer increased financial flexibility by providing access to equity in your home. You can use this equity for various purposes, such as home renovations, investments, or further debt reduction.
Keep in mind that refinancing incurs certain costs, such as application fees, valuation fees, and legal fees. These costs should be factored into your decision-making process, and you should weigh them against the potential savings and benefits of refinancing.
It is important to carefully evaluate your individual circumstances and financial goals before refinancing. Consider consulting with a professional to assess the potential impact of refinancing on your specific situation. To find a mortgage broker Brisbane homeowners can trust, you can type in the search term “mortgage broker near me” in a search engine, or you can simply contact us for help.
Our team can provide personalised guidance and help you make an informed decision that aligns with your long-term financial objectives.
Our Home Loan Refinancing Videos
Introducing Refinancing
What is a cashback offer?
Will I need to contact my bank?
What is the right time to refinance?
Can I combine personal debt?
Best Tips For Refinancing Brisbane Home Loans
If you’re a Brisbane homeowner looking to refinance your home loan, there are a few things you need to know. Here are some tips that can help you get the most out of refinancing:
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Determine what your credit score is
The first step to refinancing your home loan is to find out what your credit score is. This will help you determine what kind of interest rate you can qualify for.
You can get your credit score from a number of sources, and these include online credit report providers.
You can also visit the Australian Government Money Smart website for more information on how you can get your credit report.
NBHL can help you assess your credit score quickly and easily.
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Weigh the pros and cons of debt consolidation
If you have multiple debts, you have the option of consolidating them into your home loan. This can be a good way to save money on interest payments.
Before you do this, however, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons carefully before making such a decision.
Run the positives and negatives of debt consolidation with an experienced mortgage broker to assess if it’s worth it in the long run.
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Determine if you need a fixed or variable interest rate
Choose between a fixed interest rate and a variable interest rate.
A fixed-rate charges a defined rate of interest that doesn’t change for a period of time. At the end of a fixed interest rate period, you can choose to fix again or opt for the variable interest rate offered at the time.
A variable interest rate, on the other hand, has a rate that changes as time goes by. This means it can go up or down over the loan term, depending on market conditions.
These fluctuations in interest rates can happen at any time, but they often occur in accordance with
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Know which loan features are the most beneficial
There are a number of different loan features you can choose from when you refinance a home loan. Some of the most popular options include redraw facilities, offset accounts, and fixed interest rates.
Think about which features will be the most beneficial to you before making a decision. If you’re unsure of which features to choose, our experienced mortgage brokers can walk you through the selection of mortgage features that are available. They can also help you choose the right one for you.
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Compare mortgage products
When you’re choosing which refinancing home loan is best for you, remember to compare complete products on offer and not just the interest rates on these offers.
Some lenders may offer you a low interest rate but charge high fees for the service. To help get the best deal, always compare the total cost of the loan before making a decision.
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Get ready for your property valuation
An important step in the refinancing process is the one where you get your property valued. A valuation is when your home is assessed for its worth and will help your lender check whether or not you have enough equity to qualify for a refinance.
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Keep an open mind about loan options
You should be aware that there are a number of different loan options available to you. This is why it’s vital you keep an open mind when refinancing a home loan.
Talk to your mortgage broker about all of the different options you have and compare these carefully before making a decision.
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Always work with an experienced mortgage broker
If you’re unsure where to start, or if you’re feeling overwhelmed by the amount of work involved in refinancing your home loan, having an experienced refinance mortgage broker by your side is one great way to get the ball rolling, so to speak.
Mortgage brokers can help you compare home loan options, understand what’s happening, and find the right deal for your situation
North Brisbane Home Loans has more than 90 years of combined experience and can provide expert advice to homeowners considering a home loan refinance.
Reviews from First Home Buyers Brisbane, QLD
5.0 STAR REVIEWS
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Why Choose North Brisbane Home Loans?
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5 Star Rating
Being a top-rated finance broker in Brisbane, NBHL puts you and your needs first. Our team genuinely wants to help you achieve your property ownership dreams with a range of refinancing options available to you.
We’ve served hundreds of happy customers. If you want to find out what they think about working with check out their reviews here.
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Experienced Mortgage Brokers
Our team has more than 90 years of combined experience in the finance industry.
With such a wealth of experience, our expert refinance brokers can confidently offer you the best advice when it comes to finding the right refinance option for your needs.
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We Work For You – Not The Banks
NBHL doesn’t charge you any fees for home loan refinancing services. Our commission comes from the lender.
This means our top-rated refinance brokers are by your side, helping you every step of the way.
We strive to assist you in selecting the right refinancing home loan product for your individual circumstances.
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Exclusive Partner Network
Not only does NBHL provide you with the right advice on your home loan refinancing needs, but we also introduce you, our clients, to our network of trusted partners who are constantly offering discounted rates.
Save time and money searching for reliable building and pest, real estate agents, solicitors and more. We have what you need right here.
North Brisbane Home Loans: Your Best Choice for Refinancing Your Home Loan
North Brisbane Home Loans is one of Australia’s leading mortgage brokers. We’re backed by more than 20 years of experience, helping people refinance their home loans and reaping multiple accolades for what we do. Our mortgage brokers know the process inside and out, and we’re here to help you every step of the way.
NBHL offers a free, no-obligation consultation so that we can learn about your unique situation and goals. We’ll then work with you to find competitive home loan options for your needs. We’ll compare products from a range of different lenders so that you can be sure you’re getting the right refinancing deal for you.
If you’re ready to start saving money on your home loan, and looking for a mortgage broker near you, contact us today to schedule a free consultation. We look forward to helping you achieve your financial goals.
Home Loan Refinancing Frequently Asked Questions
Why should you consider refinancing your home loan?
Refinancing your home loans allows you to change the terms of your mortgage to get lower interest rates and monthly payments. In addition, you can access equity from your loan for home improvements, repairs, or even renovations.
What are the different types of home loan refinancing?
These are the 2 most common types of refinancing:
External refinance – refers to refinancing by transferring your loan to another lender.
Internal refinance – this is when you refinance your home loan with the lender that you’re already working with.
The type of refinancing that you choose is crucial as it helps you decide if it’s even necessary for you to refinance in the first place. Opting for internal refinancing, for example, might save you from paying fees associated with changing to another lender. It’s best to speak with an experienced mortgage broker to decide which option is best for your personal situation.
What are the reasons to refinance your home loan?
There are several reasons for refinancing a home loan. Here are some of them:
- You want a lower interest rate to save more money
- You need a loan that suits your needs
- You have other loans that you’re paying off
- You want to renovate, improve, or repair your home
- You want to invest in properties, shares, or other opportunities
How do I work out my borrowing capacity when refinancing?
To calculate your borrowing capacity when refinancing, ask a professional mortgage broker to help you. Refinance mortgage brokers can provide you with unbiased opinions regarding your options. Of course, you can talk to banks or non-bank lenders, but they’ll try to convince you towards their own refinancing home loan options without considering what else is available.
How do I know if I will qualify for home loan refinancing?
Aside from documents like proof of income and a list of existing loans and expenses, there are several criteria for eligibility to qualify for home loan refinancing. Here are some of them:
- Proof of Australian citizenship/permanent residency
- Have more than 20% of equity in your home
- Excellent credit score
- Must be employed and have proof of income
What information will I need to apply for a refinance?
A professional mortgage broker will have a checklist of all the documents required to help you refinance your home loan. These documents include, but are not limited to the following:
- Personal information and an ID
- Proof of income (tax returns if self-employed, payslips if employed, and business activity statements for business owners)
- Current home loan record
- Statement of living expenses
- Statement of assets and liabilities
Should I refinance with a fixed or variable interest rate?
The interest rate of a home loan refinance is crucial for those looking for better options. A mortgage broker can help you sort through the options available, depending on your unique situation. They can also help you understand what the interest rates on your loan will mean for your repayments.
Mortgage brokers can also help you understand the difference between getting a fixed rate vs. a variable interest rate. You can opt for a fixed rate if you want security and stability in your repayments during a set period of time. On the other hand, variable home loan rates will work if you want to take advantage of cash rate movements.
Is it a good time for me to refinance?
If you’re unsure whether it’s the right time to refinance, you can ask for the help of an NBHL mortgage broker. They will know what to do before you make that big of a financial decision. If you have a mortgage with a high interest rate, refinancing can save you thousands of dollars over the life of the loan. But if your credit score is low, or you have other debt problems, refinancing might not be your best option.
When can you refinance a home loan?
You can refinance your loan at various stages throughout the life of your mortgage. There is no limit to how many times you can review your mortgage, and our team at North Brisbane Home Loans can help you with a free, no-obligation review at any time to help you understand the pros and cons of your specific circumstance.
How long does it take to refinance a home loan?
The timeframe to refinance a home loan can vary, but it typically takes around 4-5 weeks.
How much does it cost to refinance a home loan?
The cost of refinancing a home loan can vary depending on factors such as lender fees, valuation fees, and legal fees.
Can a mortgage broker give me access to the best refinancing home loan rates?
A qualified mortgage broker Brisbane homeowners can rely on will provide access to a wide range of competitive home loan refinance rates from various lenders. They can help you explore and compare different options to find the most suitable rate for your specific needs and financial situation.
While NBHL cannot claim that certain rates are the “best” in the market, as determining the best rate depends on individual circumstances and preferences, our team can help you find the most competitive rates available. Our mortgage brokers have a legal duty of care to work in your best interest, so you can have peace of mind that the options presented to you are exactly that.
Are cashback offers worth switching lenders?
Cashback offers from lenders can be enticing, but it’s important to carefully evaluate their worth when considering switching lenders. While a cashback offer can provide an immediate financial benefit, look beyond the short-term incentive and consider the long-term implications of the loan.
Cashback offers are often used by major banks as a customer retention strategy, rather than focusing on educating borrowers and providing competitive interest rates. They can create a distorted market and potentially hide the true cost of a loan. Furthermore, the recent trend of major banks winding down their cashback offers indicates a shift in the lending landscape. Borrowers should be cautious about solely relying on cashback offers as a deciding factor for refinancing.
Before making a decision based on cashback offers, you should carefully read the fine print, understand the terms and conditions, and consider the overall cost of the loan. Consulting with a mortgage broker can provide valuable guidance in evaluating the full range of loan features, interest rates, and potential savings to make an informed decision that aligns with their financial objectives.
How many times can I refinance my home loan?
There is no specific limit to the number of times you can refinance your home loan. You can refinance multiple times throughout the life of your loan if it makes financial sense and aligns with your goals.
Can I speak with a mortgage broker in North Brisbane?
Absolutely. Our mortgage brokers at North Brisbane Home Loans are equipped to assist you with your mortgage needs. They can provide guidance tailored to your specific situation in North Brisbane. Feel free to reach out to us at 07 3889 9719 or book an appointment online to discuss your home loan requirements and explore the options available to you.
Book a Free Home Loan Refinancing Consultation with an NBHL Broker
To book a free home refinancing consultation, or for expert mortgage broker advise to help you refinance your mortgage, contact the team at North Brisbane Home Loans.