Tag: personal-finance

  • Your First Home, Simplified: A Practical Guide for Aussie Buyers in 2025

    Your First Home, Simplified: A Practical Guide for Aussie Buyers in 2025

    ๐Ÿก Your First Home, Simplified: A Practical Guide for Aussie Buyers in 2025 โœจ

    Written by David F. Chae โ€“ CFO & Founder, Loans AU | The Aussie Lending Lounge

    Introduction: Why 2025 Matters for First-Home Buyers ๐ŸŒŸ

    Buying your first home in Australia is a major life milestone. Itโ€™s exciting, emotional, and often overwhelming. In 2025, the market is moving faster than ever โ€“ with changing interest rates ๐Ÿ’น, rising construction costs ๐Ÿ“ˆ, strong migration ๐ŸŒ and tighter lending policies.

    The good news? With the right strategy and a clear roadmap, first-home buyers in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and across Australia can still get into the market โ€“ often with as little as 5% deposit.

    This guide is designed for young professionals, couples and families who want a professional, educational and practical explanation of how to buy their first home in 2025, without the jargon.

    ๐Ÿ‘‰ Want to know how much you can borrow?
    ๐Ÿ“ž Call 0413 360 888 ๐Ÿ“ง Email theteam@loansau.com


    Chapter 1: Understanding the 2025 Australian Home Loan Landscape ๐Ÿฆ๐Ÿ“Š

    ๐Ÿ” 1. More Lenders, More Choice

    Australia now has 100+ different lenders โ€“ major banks, second-tier banks, non-banks, credit unions and private funders. Each lender has different rules for:

    • How they calculate borrowing power
    • What income they accept (overtime, allowances, bonuses, commission)
    • How they treat casual, contract and self-employed income
    • Deposit and LMI (Lenders Mortgage Insurance) requirements
    • How they assess HECS/HELP and other debts

    For the same person, two lenders can differ by $100,000โ€“$180,000 in borrowing power. Choosing the right lender is a strategy, not guesswork.

    ๐Ÿ“‰ 2. Stricter Living Expense Assessment

    Banks now carefully review your:

    • Day-to-day account transactions
    • Groceries and dining ๐Ÿ”
    • Transport, fuel and Uber ๐Ÿš—
    • Subscriptions (Netflix, Spotify, apps)
    • Gambling activity ๐ŸŽฐ
    • Buy Now Pay Later (Afterpay, Zip, Klarna) ๐Ÿ›๏ธ

    In 2025, itโ€™s not just about how much you earn โ€“ itโ€™s also about how you spend.

    ๐ŸŽ 3. Government Support for First-Home Buyers

    Depending on your eligibility, you may access:

    • First Home Guarantee โ€“ buy with 5% deposit, no LMI
    • Family Home Guarantee โ€“ single parents buy with 2% deposit, no LMI
    • Regional first-home buyer support
    • Stamp duty concessions or exemptions (state-based)
    • First Home Super Saver Scheme โ€“ use super contributions towards your deposit

    โšก 4. Faster Digital Approvals

    Digital ID, electronic signatures, automated income checks and online valuations mean that a clean, well-prepared application can often receive pre-approval in as little as 24 hours.

    ๐Ÿ‘‰ Want a fast, clean pre-approval?
    โšก Call Loans AU ๐Ÿ’ฌ Email our broker team


    Chapter 2: How Much Deposit Do You Really Need in 2025? ๐Ÿ’ฐ๐Ÿงฎ

    Many Aussies still believe, โ€œYou must have a 20% deposit.โ€ In reality, with the right strategy and schemes, you can often buy with 2%โ€“10% deposit.

    Deposit Options for First-Home Buyers (2025)

    Deposit LMI? Best For Notes
    2% ๐Ÿ’ต โŒ No LMI Single parents Family Home Guarantee (eligibility applies)
    5% ๐Ÿ’ต โŒ No LMI Eligible first-home buyers First Home Guarantee (limited places)
    5โ€“10% โœ”๏ธ Yes Most buyers Standard LMI applies
    15% โ†˜๏ธ Reduced Stronger savers Lower risk to the bank, cheaper LMI
    20% โŒ No LMI Ideal scenario No mortgage insurance, more equity from day one

    Other Upfront Costs to Budget For ๐Ÿงพ

    • Stamp duty โ€“ often discounted for first-home buyers
    • Conveyancing / legal fees โ€“ typically $1,000โ€“$3,000
    • Building & pest inspections โ€“ around $300โ€“$600
    • Government & registration fees
    • Moving costs and initial furniture / appliances
    • Building and contents insurance

    Pro tip โญ: Your deposit does not equal your borrowing power. Borrowing power is a combination of income, debts, living expenses, interest rate buffers and lender policy.

    ๐Ÿ‘‰ Not sure how much deposit you actually need?
    ๐Ÿงฎ Request a personalised deposit & cost breakdown


    Chapter 3: What Do Banks Really Look At in 2025? ๐Ÿง ๐Ÿ“ˆ

    Your borrowing power is the maximum amount a lender is prepared to offer. This is driven by your income, debts, expenses, dependants, and how the lender tests your repayment capacity.

    1. Income Types ๐Ÿ’ผ

    Income Type Accepted? How Lenders View It
    Base PAYG salary โœ… Yes Most stable โ€“ often used at 100%
    Overtime โš ๏ธ Depends Usually averaged over 6โ€“24 months
    Bonuses & commissions โš ๏ธ Depends Evidence over multiple periods required
    Casual income โš ๏ธ Depends Typically need 6โ€“12 months history
    Self-employed income โœ… Yes Tax returns or alt-doc (bank statements, accountant letters) used

    2. Existing Debts ๐Ÿงพ

    • Credit cards โ€“ assessed on limit, not balance ๐Ÿ’ณ
    • Personal loans
    • Car finance ๐Ÿš—
    • HECS/HELP student debt ๐ŸŽ“
    • Buy Now Pay Later services (Afterpay, Zip, etc.) ๐Ÿ›๏ธ

    3. Living Expenses ๐Ÿ›๏ธ

    Lenders group your spending into categories (food, transport, utilities, insurance, childcare, entertainment) and compare your declared expenses with a benchmark called HEM (Household Expenditure Measure), using whichever figure is higher.

    4. Dependants ๐Ÿ‘ถ

    More children = higher assumed household costs = lower borrowing capacity.

    5. Interest Rate Buffers ๐Ÿ“‰

    Even if your actual interest rate is 6%, banks might test your repayments at around 9% to ensure you could still cope if rates rise.

    Borrowing Power Examples (Young Professionals, Approximate) ๐Ÿ“Š

    Buyer Type Income City Estimated Borrowing Power*
    Single professional $95,000 Brisbane $430,000 โ€“ $520,000
    Dual-income couple $160,000 Sydney $750,000 โ€“ $880,000
    High-income couple $240,000 Melbourne $1.05M โ€“ $1.25M
    IT professional + nurse $190,000 Sydney $850,000 โ€“ $1.05M

    *Indicative only. Actual figures vary between lenders.

    ๐Ÿ‘‰ Want to know your true borrowing power across multiple banks?
    ๐Ÿ“ž Call 0413 360 888 ๐Ÿงฎ Request a borrowing power report


    Chapter 4: The Step-by-Step Home Buying Process in 2025 ๐Ÿš€๐Ÿ“

    Hereโ€™s a practical roadmap from โ€œthinking about buyingโ€ to holding your keys.

    โœ… Step 1: Borrowing Capacity Assessment

    Youโ€™ll usually need:

    • Photo ID (driver licence or passport)
    • Recent payslips and/or tax returns
    • Bank statements
    • Details of existing loans and credit cards
    • A summary of your living expenses

    โœ… Step 2: Get Pre-Approved โœ”๏ธ

    • Confirms your borrowing limit
    • Checks your credit file and documents
    • Valid for ~90 days (often extendable)
    • Gives you confidence when making offers or bidding at auction

    โœ… Step 3: Start the Property Search ๐Ÿ”

    • Search within your realistic price range
    • Consider transport, schools, shops and infrastructure
    • For units/townhouses: review strata fees and building condition

    โœ… Step 4: Make an Offer or Bid at Auction โœ๏ธ

    • NSW & VIC: Auctions very common for houses
    • QLD: Private treaty more common
    • Engage a solicitor or conveyancer early to review contracts

    โœ… Step 5: Valuation & Unconditional Approval ๐Ÿ“‘

    Once the contract is signed, the lender orders a valuation. If the valuation and all documents are satisfactory, the bank issues unconditional (formal) approval.

    โœ… Step 6: Settlement & Keys ๐ŸŽ‰๐Ÿ”‘

    On settlement day, funds are transferred, the property title is updated, and you finally receive your keys.

    ๐Ÿ‘‰ Want guidance from Step 1 to Settlement?
    ๐ŸŒ Visit www.loansau.com


    Chapter 5: Real-Life First-Home Buyer Case Studies ๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐Ÿ‘งโ€๐Ÿ‘ฆ๐Ÿ“˜

    Case Study 1 โ€“ Sydney Couple Buying with 5% Deposit ๐Ÿ‘ซ

    Profile: James (engineer) & Sophia (nurse), combined income $182,000, renting in Parramatta and wanting to buy a 2-bedroom apartment near work.

    Challenge: Only had around a 5% deposit and rent was rising.

    Solution:

    • Used the First Home Guarantee to avoid LMI with 5% deposit
    • Selected a lender that favoured overtime and penalty rates
    • Lodged a complete file and received pre-approval in 24 hours

    Outcome:

    • Successfully purchased a modern apartment
    • Saved an estimated $30K+ in LMI
    • Kept a healthy emergency buffer in savings

    Case Study 2 โ€“ Single Buyer in Brisbane ๐Ÿ‘ฉ

    Profile: Lara, 28, marketing manager, income $98,000, looking to buy an apartment around Chermside.

    Challenge: She had HECS debt and wasnโ€™t sure if banks would lend enough for a $500K+ property.

    Solution:

    • Matched with a lender that assessed HECS more leniently
    • Used a 10% deposit strategy with reduced LMI
    • Presented realistic but solid living expense figures

    Outcome: Approved for a $510K apartment with comfortable repayments.

    Case Study 3 โ€“ Melbourne Couple with a Car Loan ๐Ÿš—

    Profile: David & Mia, combined income $162,000, had a car loan and multiple credit cards, wanted a townhouse in Melbourneโ€™s east.

    Challenge: Debt and credit card limits were pulling borrowing power down.

    Solution:

    • Reduced credit card limits rather than closing accounts
    • Restructured declared expenses to match realistic spending
    • Chose a lender with more flexible debt-to-income ratios

    Outcome: Purchased a $710K townhouse without having to sell the car.

    ๐Ÿ‘‰ See yourself in one of these stories?
    ๐Ÿ“ฉ Email your situation to Loans AU


    Chapter 6: The 7 Most Common First-Home Buyer Mistakes โš ๏ธ๐Ÿงจ

    1. Waiting too long and trying to time the market โณ
      While you wait for the โ€œperfect timeโ€, prices and rents can continue to rise.
    2. Looking at properties before getting pre-approved ๐Ÿšซ
      This can lead to heartbreak, rushed finance or missing out on the property entirely.
    3. Applying with multiple banks directly and hurting your credit file ๐Ÿ’ณ
      Too many credit enquiries in a short time can be seen as high risk.
    4. Ignoring Buy Now Pay Later and small debts ๐Ÿ›๏ธ
      Even small BNPL limits can meaningfully reduce borrowing power.
    5. Declaring unrealistic living expenses ๐Ÿงพ
      If your bank statements donโ€™t match what youโ€™ve declared, questions will be asked.
    6. Assuming all banks are the same ๐ŸฆโŒ
      Policy differences between lenders can make or break your approval.
    7. Trying to โ€œDIYโ€ complex lending decisions ๐Ÿคฏ
      Online calculators and forums donโ€™t replace professional, tailored advice.

    ๐Ÿ‘‰ Want a pre-application check before you apply?
    โœ… Request a Pre-Application Review


    Chapter 7: Stamp Duty Savings for First-Home Buyers ๐Ÿท๏ธ๐Ÿ“

    Stamp duty is one of the biggest upfront costs, but as a first-home buyer you may qualify for concessions or full exemptions, depending on your state and purchase price.

    NSW (Sydney & Surrounds) ๐ŸŒ‰

    • Full or partial stamp duty relief up to certain purchase thresholds
    • Benefits taper off as the price increases

    VIC (Melbourne & Surrounds) ๐Ÿ™๏ธ

    • No stamp duty for eligible first-home buyers up to a specific price
    • Concessions on properties above that price, up to a capped level

    QLD (Brisbane & SEQ) ๐ŸŒค๏ธ

    • Concessions for first-home buyers and owner-occupiers under certain price caps
    • Higher rates for investment properties

    Note: These rules and thresholds change over time. Always check current government information or seek advice from your broker or solicitor.

    ๐Ÿ‘‰ Want a stamp duty estimate for a specific property?
    ๐Ÿงฎ Request a Stamp Duty Estimate


    Chapter 8: How to Boost Your Borrowing Power โšก๐Ÿ’ก

    Hereโ€™s a practical checklist you can start working on today:

    • Reduce credit card limits โœ‚๏ธ๐Ÿ’ณ โ€“ a $10,000 limit can significantly reduce borrowing capacity.
    • Clear small personal loans โ€“ removing high-repayment debts can improve your serviceability.
    • Close or clean up BNPL accounts โ€“ Afterpay, Zip and others are viewed as ongoing commitments.
    • Review subscriptions & discretionary spending ๐Ÿ“‰ โ€“ fewer โ€œleaksโ€ can help your profile.
    • Increase income where possible ๐Ÿ’ผโฌ†๏ธ โ€“ consistent overtime, allowances or side income can help, if documented.
    • Choose a lender with favourable policy ๐ŸŽฏ โ€“ some banks are more flexible with HECS, overtime, or dependants.

    ๐Ÿ‘‰ Want a tailored โ€œborrowing power upgrade planโ€?
    ๐Ÿ“Š Request a Borrowing Power Review


    Chapter 9: Fixed, Variable or Split โ€“ Which Rate Structure Suits You? ๐Ÿ”’๐Ÿ”„

    Fixed Rates ๐Ÿ“Œ

    • Repayments stay the same for the fixed period
    • Great for budgeting and peace of mind
    • Often fewer features (e.g. limited offset or redraw)
    • Break costs can apply if you exit early

    Variable Rates ๐Ÿ”„

    • Move up and down with the market
    • Often include offset accounts and redraw
    • More flexibility for extra repayments

    Split Loans โž—

    • Part fixed, part variable
    • Blend of certainty and flexibility
    • Very popular among first-home buyers

    ๐Ÿ‘‰ Not sure which structure fits your goals?
    ๐Ÿ“‰ Ask Loans AU for Rate Structure Advice


    Chapter 10: Choosing the Right Property Type in Sydney, Melbourne & Brisbane ๐Ÿ˜๏ธ๐ŸŒ

    Sydney (NSW) ๐ŸŒ†

    • Units and townhouses offer more accessible entry points
    • Middle and outer-ring suburbs may offer better value and land content
    • Always check strata levies and building reports

    Melbourne (VIC) ๐Ÿ–ผ๏ธ

    • Wide range from inner-city apartments to suburban houses
    • Growth corridors in the west, north and south-east
    • Consider infrastructure projects, schools and transport links

    Brisbane (QLD) ๐Ÿž๏ธ

    • Some suburbs still offer relatively affordable houses
    • Strong population growth and infrastructure investment
    • Check flood maps, zoning and local council controls

    ๐Ÿ‘‰ Need help matching your budget to realistic suburbs?
    ๐Ÿ“ Request a Suburb & Budget Chat


    Chapter 11: Why First-Home Buyers Choose Loans AU ๐Ÿค๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡บ

    • Access to 100+ lenders โ€“ major banks, non-banks and specialist funders ๐Ÿฆ
    • Fast pre-approvals โ€“ in as little as 24 hours when documents are ready โšก
    • Expert use of government schemes โ€“ First Home Guarantee, Family Home Guarantee and more ๐ŸŽ
    • End-to-end guidance โ€“ from first chat through to settlement ๐Ÿค
    • Australia-wide service โ€“ Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and beyond ๐ŸŒ

    At Loans AU, our role is to translate complex lending rules into clear, practical options โ€“ and to advocate for your best interests, not the bankโ€™s.


    Conclusion: Your First Home Is Closer Than You Think ๐ŸŽ‰๐Ÿ”‘

    In 2025, buying your first home is still a realistic goal โ€“ even in competitive markets like Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. You donโ€™t have to wait forever, and you donโ€™t have to navigate the process alone.

    The key is not โ€œIโ€™ll just save more and think about it laterโ€, but rather: โ€œWhat can I do right now, with my current income and deposit, to make this happen?โ€

    With the right loan structure, the right lender, and a broker who understands your goals, โ€œOne day weโ€™ll buy a placeโ€ can turn into โ€œWe just got the keys to our first home.โ€

    Your next steps are simple:

    • Find out how much you can borrow
    • Understand how much deposit you truly need
    • Get pre-approved so you can shop with confidence

    ๐Ÿ‘‰ Take the first step with Loans AU today.
    ๐Ÿ“ž Call 0413 360 888 ๐Ÿ“ง Email theteam@loansau.com ๐ŸŒ Visit www.loansau.com

  • Breaking Barriers: How Australiaโ€™s 5% Deposit Scheme is Opening Doors for First Home Buyers

    Breaking Barriers: How Australiaโ€™s 5% Deposit Scheme is Opening Doors for First Home Buyers

    Breaking Barriers: How Australiaโ€™s 5% Deposit Scheme is Opening Doors for First Home Buyers

    The Aussie Lending Lounge by Loans AU

    Written by David โ€“ CFO, Loans AU


    Introduction

    For many Australians, the biggest hurdle to buying a first home isnโ€™t the dream itselfโ€”itโ€™s the deposit. The Australian Government has now supercharged its First Home Buyer Guarantee Scheme, allowing eligible buyers to enter the property market with as little as 5% deposit, while avoiding costly Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI).

    This is a game-changer. From 1 October 2025, the scheme has not only expanded but also introduced higher property price caps and removed income caps altogether. With unlimited places available, more Australians than ever before can take advantage of this opportunity.


    What the 5% Deposit Scheme Means

    Traditionally, lenders require a 20% deposit to avoid LMIโ€”a cost that can easily run into tens of thousands of dollars. Under this government-backed initiative:

    • Buyers can purchase with just 5% deposit.
    • The government acts as a guarantor for up to 15% of the propertyโ€™s value.
    • Eligible buyers can avoid LMI entirely, saving significant upfront costs.
    • There are now unlimited places under the scheme.

    This means Australians can finally stop waiting to save a full 20% deposit and step into the market sooner.


    Updated Property Price Caps

    The scheme now comes with new, higher price limits for properties, allowing first home buyers to target homes in more realistic brackets, especially in high-demand cities.

    StateOld Price LimitNew Price Limit
    NSW: Capital City & Regional Centre$900,000$1,500,000
    NSW: Other$750,000$800,000
    VIC: Capital City & Regional Centre$800,000$950,000
    VIC: Other$650,000$650,000
    QLD: Capital City & Other$700,000$1,000,000
    QLD: Other$550,000$700,000
    WA: Capital City & Regional Centre$600,000$850,000
    WA: Other$450,000$600,000
    SA: Capital City$600,000$900,000
    SA: Other$450,000$500,000
    TAS: Capital City$600,000$700,000
    TAS: Other$450,000$550,000
    ACT$750,000$1,000,000

    Who Can Apply?

    The updated scheme is designed for genuine first home buyers with far fewer barriers than before.

    Eligibility conditions:

    • Must be at least 18 years old.
    • Must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident.
    • Must be a first-time buyer, or not have owned property in Australia for the past 10 years.
    • Must have saved at least 5% deposit.
    • The property must be purchased as your principal place of residence (not an investment).
    • Property value must be within the new state-based price caps.

    No income caps. No limits on places.

    This opens the door for thousands more Australians across different income levels to finally buy their first home.


    Why This Matters

    This initiative will open doors for countless young Australians, couples, and families who may have been locked out of the market. With the expanded price caps and unlimited participation, even properties in high-demand areas such as Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Canberra are now accessible under the scheme.

    For buyers, this means:

    • Entering the market sooner.
    • Saving tens of thousands in LMI.
    • Having access to a wider range of properties.
    • Greater certainty that you can secure a place in the scheme.

    How Loans AU Can Help

    At Loans AU, we specialise in guiding first home buyers through this process. From confirming eligibility to helping you secure pre-approval with the right lender, our team ensures you take full advantage of the scheme.

    ๐Ÿ“ž Call us today at 0413-360-888
    ๐ŸŒ Visit us at http://www.loansau.com
    ๐Ÿ’ฌ Chat with us on WhatsApp here

    Let us help you turn your dream of home ownership into reality.


    โœ… The Aussie Lending Lounge by Loans AU โ€“ keeping you informed, empowered, and ready to own your first home.

  • Chapter 1: Why Australians Are Walking Away from Big Banks

    Chapter 1: Why Australians Are Walking Away from Big Banks

    ๐Ÿงฉ Chapter 1: Why Australians Are Walking Away from Big Banks
    From the eBook: โ€œFrom Bank to Broker: Why More Aussies Are Switching for Better Deals in 2025โ€ โ€“ The Aussie Lending Lounge by Loans AU

    ๐Ÿ” Overview

    For generations, Australia’s “big four” banksโ€”Commonwealth Bank, Westpac, NAB, and ANZโ€”have been the default option for home loans. They were the local institution your parents trusted, the bank where you opened your first savings account, and the lender you instinctively turned to when it was time to buy your first home.

    But not anymore.

    In 2025, the landscape has shifted dramatically. More Australians than ever are walking away from traditional banks and instead choosing to partner with mortgage brokers. The numbers are strikingโ€”and the reasons behind the shift are even more compelling.

    ๐Ÿ“Š The Decline of Big Bank Dominance

    • 74.1% of all new residential home loans are now arranged through mortgage brokers.
    • That figure has grown steadily from around 50% in the early 2010s.
    • Direct-to-bank loan applications have decreased for five consecutive years.

    This isn’t just a blip. It’s a structural shift.

    ๐Ÿšจ Why Are Aussies Losing Faith in Big Banks?

    1. The Loyalty Tax is Real
    Many Australians have discovered theyโ€™re being charged higher interest rates than new customers. This โ€œloyalty taxโ€ can add tens of thousands of dollars in extra interest over the life of a loan.

    โ€œWhen I refinanced with a broker, I saved over $9,000 in the first year alone. My bank never told me I was on the old rate.โ€ โ€“ Paul C., Newcastle

    2. Delayed Processing & Poor Communication
    Borrowers often report:

    • Weeks-long approval delays
    • Repeated document requests
    • Inconsistent communication between branch and credit teams

    Brokers, by contrast, proactively manage the process and escalate issues quickly.

    3. One-Size-Fits-All Policies
    Banks often have rigid criteriaโ€”especially for self-employed borrowers, investors, or anyone with non-standard income. Brokers have access to flexible lenders who can tailor approvals.

    4. Aggressive Cross-Selling
    Bank staff are known to upsell credit cards, insurance, or personal loans. Brokers are bound by a Best Interest Duty to put the client first.

    ๐Ÿ“‰ Real-World Examples: When Banks Drop the Ball

    Case Study 1 โ€“ Settlement Nightmare
    A Melbourne couple received pre-approval from a major bank, but formal approval took 23 business days, nearly losing them the property. A broker wouldโ€™ve:

    • Selected a faster lender
    • Pre-flagged credit concerns
    • Worked directly with the solicitor to avoid delays

    Case Study 2 โ€“ Refinance Rejection
    A Brisbane freelancer was rejected by their bank for refinancing due to inconsistent income. A broker secured approval from a non-bank lender and dropped their interest rate by 1.25%.

    ๐Ÿง  The Psychology of Switching

    Many borrowers stay with banks out of habit or fear of complexityโ€”but that loyalty rarely pays off. Questions more people are asking:

    • โ€œWhy should I pay more just because I stayed longer?โ€
    • โ€œWhy does my neighbour get a better deal for being new?โ€

    Brokers simplify switching by handling paperwork, comparing options, negotiating, and securing cashback offers.

    ๐Ÿ”Ž Data Doesnโ€™t Lie

    • 67% believe their bank puts profit before their needs (CoreData, 2025)
    • 73% trust mortgage brokers more to find them the best deal
    • 82% of broker clients say the process was easier than expected

    ๐Ÿ In Summary

    The big banks are losing ground not because people dislike their brandingโ€”but because theyโ€™re no longer offering the best deals.

    • More competitive rates
    • Broader lending choices
    • Faster, more personalised service
    • Best Interest Duty compliance

    No wonder more Aussies than ever are turning to brokers.

    โœ… Call to Action

    ๐Ÿ’ก Still with your original bank? You could be leaving money on the table. Let Loans AU compare your loan with 30+ lenders and show you whatโ€™s possible.

  • Commercial Property Finance Made Easy โ€” Partner with Loans AU Today

    Commercial Property Finance Made Easy โ€” Partner with Loans AU Today

    Published by: The Aussie Lending Lounge by Loans AU

    Looking to secure a ๐Ÿข commercial property in Australia?

    Whether you’re investing in a retail space, warehouse, office, or mixed-use asset, commercial lending can feel complex โ€” but it doesnโ€™t have to be.

    At Loans AU, we make the process easy, strategic, and results-focused ๐Ÿ’ผโœจ

    Hereโ€™s how we help you from day one to settlement โ€” and beyond.

    ๐Ÿ“Š What Loan-to-Value Ratios (LVR) Can You Expect?

    โœ… Major Banks: Up to 65โ€“70%
    โœ… Non-Bank Lenders: Up to 75%
    โœ… Private Lenders: Up to 80% (higher flexibility, higher cost)

    ๐Ÿ’ก Tip: If your valuation falls short, having extra funds available can be a deal-saver.

    ๐Ÿข Ownership Structures That Lenders Accept

    You can purchase under:

    • ๐Ÿ‘ค Your personal name
    • ๐Ÿข A company
    • ๐Ÿค A unit trust
    • ๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐Ÿ‘งโ€๐Ÿ‘ฆ A discretionary (family) trust

    Each structure affects:

    • ๐Ÿ’ฐ Capital Gains Tax (CGT)
    • ๐Ÿ  Land tax thresholds
    • ๐Ÿ’ผ GST obligations

    ๐Ÿ“Œ Trust setup? Allow 5โ€“10 business days. Talk to your accountant early.

    ๐Ÿงฎ How Do Lenders Assess Your Serviceability?

    Lenders want to know: Can you afford the loan? Here’s what they evaluate:

    • ๐Ÿ“ˆ Business income and net profit (plus depreciation addbacks)
    • ๐Ÿ’ธ Existing loans and debts
    • ๐Ÿงพ Living expenses (for individuals)
    • ๐Ÿ“ƒ Proposed or current lease income
    • ๐Ÿ“Š Financial strength of your entities

    ๐Ÿง  Important: Give your broker a clear breakdown of your business or trust structure โ€” including directors, beneficiaries, and ownership. The more accurate your information, the better we can position your application.

    ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Build the Right Finance Team

    • ๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐Ÿ’ผ Accountant: Provides clean, updated financials
    • โš–๏ธ Solicitor: Handles contract reviews, lease clauses, and negotiations
    • ๐Ÿง‘โ€๐Ÿ’ผ Broker (Loans AU): Structures and presents your application to 100+ lenders

    โœ… Also have ready:

    • Loan contracts
    • Loan statements
    • Bank records
    • Lease proposals

    โณ These docs save time and reduce approval delays!

    ๐Ÿงพ Loan Types Available at Loans AU

    1๏ธโƒฃ Full-Doc Loans โ€“ Tax returns & financials required
    2๏ธโƒฃ Alt-Doc Loans โ€“ Use BAS, accountant letters, or bank statements
    3๏ธโƒฃ Low-Doc Loans โ€“ Minimal paperwork, ideal for fast settlements

    ๐Ÿ’ฐ May 2025 Interest Rates & Loan Terms

    • Full-Doc: from 6.69% p.a.
    • Alt-Doc: 7.99%โ€“9.99% p.a.
    • Private Lending: 10.5%โ€“14% p.a.

    ๐Ÿ“† Loan Terms: 1โ€“25 years (some lenders offer up to 30 years)
    ๐Ÿ’ณ Interest-Only: Up to 5 years available

    โฑ๏ธ Application Timeline

    • ๐Ÿ—๏ธ Entity setup: 5โ€“10 business days
    • โœ… Approval: 10โ€“15 business days (banks), 3โ€“7 days (non-banks)
    • ๐Ÿ Valuation + settlement: 1โ€“2 additional weeks

    ๐Ÿ“ฆ Most deals settle within 4โ€“6 weeks. We can go faster with full docs on hand!

    ๐Ÿ” Directorโ€™s Guarantee Required?

    If youโ€™re buying through a company or trust, most lenders will request a directorโ€™s or personal guarantee. Be prepared โœ…

    ๐Ÿ“‹ What Documents Do You Need?

    • โœ… 2 years of business financials
    • โœ… Personal and business tax returns
    • โœ… BAS statements
    • โœ… Trust deed or company constitution
    • โœ… Proposed or existing lease
    • โœ… Bank statements
    • โœ… Loan contracts + statements
    • โœ… Statement of position
    • โœ… ID documents

    ๐Ÿ’ก A clean credit history + complete documents = faster approval ๐Ÿš€

    ๐Ÿ› ๏ธ Post-Settlement: Maximise Your Property Value

    Once settled, it’s time to increase your assetโ€™s value ๐Ÿ”ง

    Work with commercial property experts to:

    • Boost ๐Ÿ’ธ rental income
    • Improve ๐Ÿ“ layout efficiency
    • Strengthen ๐Ÿ“ˆ valuation per sqm
    • Prepare for future ๐Ÿ’ต refinance or equity release

    ๐Ÿ” This is a key step in maximising return โ€” especially for resale or future loan top-ups.

    ๐Ÿค Why Choose Loans AU?

    At Loans AU, we do more than find you a lender:

    • โœ… Structure your deal the right way
    • โœ… Coordinate with your accountant and solicitor
    • โœ… Pre-empt valuation or funding shortfalls
    • โœ… Push deals through with urgency when needed
    • โœ… Support you through refinance or equity release later on

    ๐Ÿ“ฒ Weโ€™re available 24/7 via WhatsApp or KakaoTalk to help โ€” every step of the way.

    ๐Ÿš€ Ready to Get Started?

    Letโ€™s make it happen:

    ๐Ÿ”— Get Started: http://www.loansau.com/getstarted
    ๐Ÿ’ฌ WhatsApp Us: https://wa.me/61413360888
    ๐ŸŒ Visit Website: http://www.loansau.com

    ๐Ÿ“Œ Hashtags

    | |
    #TrustStructure | |
    #CommercialBroker | |
    #InvestmentReady | |

    Loans AU โ€” Commercial Property Finance Made Easy. Results That Matter.

  • Maximise Your LVR. Minimise Your Interest. Grow Your Wealth – Commercial Property Finance

    Maximise Your LVR. Minimise Your Interest. Grow Your Wealth – Commercial Property Finance

    ๐Ÿข Smart Lending for Smarter Properties

    ๐Ÿ’ผ Maximise Your LVR. Minimise Your Interest. Grow Your Wealth.

    ๐Ÿ“ข Want to purchase or refinance a commercial property in Australia?
    Hereโ€™s how savvy investors structure their loans to unlock maximum LVR and switch to lower rates โ€” all while keeping cash flow strong and future options open.


    ๐Ÿ’ก The Strategy: Max Out LVR First โ€” Then Refinance to Lower Rates Later

    Many property buyers start with non-bank lenders. Why? Because they allow up to 80% LVR with flexible interest-only terms โ€” often over 30 years with the first 5 years as interest only. But these come with higher interest rates.

    ๐Ÿฆ If you want lower rates, major banks are the long-term solution. They typically offer:

    • โœ… Lower interest rates
    • โœ… Stronger servicing options
    • โœ… Better long-term security

    However, they often limit LVR to 60โ€“70% โ€” unless you qualify for a hybrid structure.


    ๐Ÿ” The 10% Amortisation Model with Major Lenders:

    • ๐Ÿ”น 10% of the total loan is repaid as principal + interest over 5 years
    • ๐Ÿ”น 90% remains as interest-only during that period
    • ๐Ÿ”น After 5 years, the remaining 70% may be rolled into a new interest-only loan โ€” at lower rates
    • ๐Ÿ“ Must pass tough credit checks with strong income and documentation

    ๐Ÿ”ง Switching from Non-Bank to Bank? Time for a Revaluation Strategy

    To refinance from a non-bank lender to a major bank, you need to boost your propertyโ€™s valuation.

    ๐Ÿ“ˆ Tips:

    • ๐Ÿ”จ Engage professionals for targeted renovations
    • ๐Ÿ“ Know your price per square metre
    • ๐Ÿ“Š Use quantity surveyors & valuers to guide improvements

    The goal is to increase equity, reduce LVR, and qualify for better terms.


    ๐Ÿงฎ Example: Borrowing $1M with 10% Amortisation

    • $100K = Principal & Interest over 5 years
    • $900K = Interest Only for the full term
    • After 5 years: Refinance remaining 70% if eligible โœ…

    ๐Ÿš€ Ready to Build a Smarter Commercial Loan Strategy?

    Weโ€™ll help you:
    โœ”๏ธ Maximise borrowing power
    โœ”๏ธ Structure your loan for cash flow
    โœ”๏ธ Refinance when timingโ€™s right
    โœ”๏ธ Upgrade your property value strategically


    ๐Ÿ“ฒ Letโ€™s get started now!
    ๐Ÿ”— Apply Today
    ๐Ÿ’ฌ Chat on WhatsApp
    ๐Ÿ“ž Call us: 0413 360 888


    ๐Ÿ“Œ Written by The Aussie Lending Lounge by Loans AU

    ๐Ÿท๏ธ