Frequently asked questions
Questions we get asked a lot
The questions clients raise most often, grouped by the kind of lending they relate to. If yours is not here, ask us directly and we will give you a straight answer.
Refinance and restructure
Do I have to switch banks?
No. Staying put can be the right call. We look at whether your current lender is still working for you and only suggest moving if there is a clear reason to. Sometimes the better result comes from restructuring the lending you already have.
Is refinancing always worth it?
Not always. A sharper rate is only part of the picture, and there can be costs or break fees to weigh up. We help you see whether the numbers and the structure genuinely stack up before you decide.
Can you help untangle properties secured together?
Yes. Where it makes sense, we look at how your properties are secured so they can stand on their own. That can give you more flexibility to sell or refinance one without dragging the others into it.
Does a refinance or restructure cost anything?
For most standard residential lending there is no direct fee to you, as we are usually paid by the lender when your loan settles. If any fee could apply to your situation, we will explain and agree it with you before you proceed.
What happens when my fixed rate is ending?
That is a natural point to review. We look at your refix options and the wider structure so the decision is made on purpose, rather than rolling onto whatever rate arrives by default.
Property investment
Can you help me work out how much I may be able to borrow?
Yes. We work through your equity, income and deposit position so you have a realistic picture of what you may be able to do before you start looking.
Do I need a property under contract before speaking with you?
No. It often helps to talk earlier, so you understand your position and have your lending structured before you make an offer.
Can you help if my main bank has said no?
Often, yes. A single bank is only one view. We work across major banks and specialist and non-bank lenders, so a no in one place does not always mean no everywhere.
Can you help structure lending across multiple properties?
Yes. How each property is secured and how the lending is split affects your flexibility later. We structure with your next move in mind, not just the current one.
Do you work with specialist and non-bank lenders?
Yes, where they are genuinely the right fit for your goals. We will always explain why a particular lender suits your situation.
Commercial and development
What kinds of commercial lending can you help with?
We help with commercial property, business lending and development or construction funding, along with more complex situations that do not fit a standard home-loan application.
What information is usually required?
It varies with the deal, but commercial and development lending generally needs more detail on the project, the numbers and your wider position. We will tell you what is likely to be needed for your situation.
Do fees apply?
A fee may apply for commercial, development or unusually complex work. We will explain and agree any fee before you proceed.
Can you help with development and construction funding?
Yes. These deals often involve stage funding and their own tests around security and serviceability. We work through the detail so the structure matches how the project actually runs.
Do you work with lenders outside the major banks?
Yes. The best option depends on the property and the project. We work across major banks and a broad range of specialist and non-bank lenders to find a fit.
Reverse mortgages
What is a reverse mortgage?
It is a way to borrow against the equity in your home later in life without having to sell it or make regular repayments. The loan is usually repaid when the home is sold or from your estate.
Does interest compound?
Yes. Interest is added to the loan over time, so the balance grows and the equity remaining in your home reduces. We walk through what that looks like over time before any decision is made.
Can family members be involved in the conversation?
Absolutely. These decisions often involve family, and we are happy to include the people you trust so the choice is made with everyone informed.
How does it affect the equity remaining in my home?
Because interest compounds, the equity left in your home reduces over time. How much depends on the amount borrowed, the interest rate and how long the loan runs. We explain this clearly so you can weigh it up.
Is a reverse mortgage the only later-life option?
No. It is one option among several. We will talk through the broad alternatives and implications so you can decide what suits your circumstances.
Reckon your mortgage could be working harder?
Book a free 20-minute review and we will work out whether there is anything worth changing.
