Jacqueline Barton

Inflation has been heading in the right direction and the Reserve Bank of Australia has cut the cash rate three times in 2025.

So, is now a good time to refinance?

The decision as to whether to refinance depends largely on your individual situation and goals.

Here are a few key considerations to think about when deciding whether or not to refinance.

The latest inflation data was promising

In positive news, the consumer price index (CPI) rose by 2.1 per cent over the 12 months to the June quarter, while the trimmed mean annual inflation was 2.7 per cent to the June quarter. This is the figure the RBA pays close attention to when deciding what to do with the cash rate.

With trimmed mean inflation now at its lowest since December 2021 and well within the RBA’s target band of 2–3 per cent, there is a strong case for further cash rate cuts if inflation and economic growth continue on their current path.

The RBA’s latest Statement on Monetary Policy offered fresh insights into the outlook. Despite markets expecting lower rates since May, the RBA’s inflation forecast remains steady, with the trimmed mean sitting at 2.6 per cent for the next two years.

Financial markets are currently pricing in

A cash rate low of 2.9 per cent by December 2026 before edging back up to 3.1 per cent in 2027. If the RBA’s projections are correct, they suggest the economy can operate with a cash rate around 3 per cent and inflation will remain within their target band.

Lender offers are getting sharper

Given the three rate cuts so far this year, there’s a lot of competition amongst lenders to get mortgage holders through the doors.

By refinancing, you may access an attractive cash back offer that helps you get ahead with your goals or secure a more competitive home loan rate. Refinancing and setting you up with a home loan with interest-saving features like a redraw facility or offset account could also help you get ahead financially.

So, should I refinance now or wait it out?

It’s hard to know exactly how soon the RBA will cut the cash rate again. While refinancing will depend largely on your individual situation and goals, there are mounting reasons why refinancing should be on your radar. At the very least, now is a good time to review your home loan to make sure it still measures up, particularly if you fall under any of the following categories:

You’ve been with the same lender for a long time

If your current home loan was locked in at the cycle’s peak, you may be paying more than is necessary on your mortgage. If you’ve had the same home loan for several years, chances are you could be getting a more suitable offer with another lender, so it’s worth exploring your options and shopping around.

Your situation has changed

Have your financial circumstances changed since you took out your original home loan?
If so, all the more reason to consider refinancing to a home loan that marries with your current financial situation and long-term objectives.

Your debt is feeling overwhelming

If you’re juggling multiple debts at once, such as a personal loan and credit card debt, it may be worthwhile considering debt consolidation.

With debt consolidation, you essentially roll all your debts into your home loan.
It means you only have to make one repayment, making it easier to manage your debt.

It’s important to remember that you may end up paying more interest over the life of the loan if you go down this road, so speak to us and we’ll crunch the numbers for you.

You want to access your equity

Want to make a big-ticket purchase, like buying an investment property or doing a home renovation?
Refinancing to access your equity could help you achieve these kinds of goals.

Like to know more?

If you’re considering refinancing, reach out to us for a home loan health check.

We can help you work through all the options out there and find you a home loan to suit your specific circumstances and goals.

We’ll also explain any costs involved and help you weigh up whether it’s worth refinancing.

Please contact us today to explore your options.

Buying an investment property in another state or territory can open the door to a range of new opportunities. From more affordable price points to higher rental yields and market diversification, there are plenty of reasons to look beyond your own backyard. But investing interstate also requires careful planning, local insight, and the right financial support.

Here are 7 practical tips to consider if you’re thinking about taking that next step.

1. Define your investment strategy

Before exploring property listings, it’s helpful to think about what you want to achieve – whether that’s long-term value growth, consistent rental income, or managing cash flow. These goals can guide your decisions around location, property type, and loan structure.

If you’re unsure where to begin, I can provide general information about available finance options and suggest ways you might continue your research or seek licensed advice.

2. Know your numbers

Many investors use equity in their current home or investment property to fund their next purchase. Depending on your situation, you may be able to borrow up to 80% of your property’s value, minus any outstanding loan balance.

It’s also important to budget for all the costs involved in buying interstate. These may include stamp duty, legal and conveyancing fees, building and pest inspections, insurance, property management, maintenance, and ongoing loan repayments. Some of these expenses vary significantly between states, so be sure to get detailed advice early.

Getting pre-approval is a valuable step in the process. It gives you a clear idea of your borrowing power, helps you set a realistic budget, and shows sellers you’re serious when it’s time to make an offer.

3. Choose a finance structure that suits your needs

Not all investment loans are the same. Depending on your goals and personal circumstances, you might consider features such as interest-only repayments, offset accounts, or redraw facilities. The right loan structure can help you manage cash flow, reduce interest, and stay flexible over time.

As a mortgage broker, I can walk you through your options, compare lenders, and help tailor a finance solution that fits your strategy.

4. Research the location thoroughly

An affordable property doesn’t always mean a good investment. When buying interstate, take the time to research the local market. Look at vacancy rates, population growth, infrastructure projects, access to public transport, schools, and employment hubs.

Focus on areas with consistent demand and strong long-term potential. Read suburb reports, follow property trends, and review local council plans for future development.

If you’re unfamiliar with the area, working with a buyer’s agent can be helpful. They can provide local knowledge, assist with negotiations, and may even uncover off-market opportunities.

5. Build a reliable local team

Managing a property from another state requires trust in your support network. A good property manager will handle tenant communication, organise maintenance, conduct inspections, and ensure your property complies with local regulations.

You’ll also need a local conveyancer or solicitor who understands the legal requirements of that state or territory. And don’t forget about building and pest inspections – they’re essential when you can’t view the property yourself.

6. Understand how the local market works

Every state and territory has its own rules and processes for buying property. Cooling-off periods, contract terms, settlement timeframes, and auction regulations can all differ. Make sure you’re familiar with how things work in the area you’re buying in, so there are no surprises.

If you’re not able to travel for inspections, consider using virtual tours or requesting detailed video walkthroughs. Independent building and pest reports are also a must.

7. Keep track of your investment

Once your property is up and running, make it a habit to review its performance regularly. Monitor your rental income, track expenses, and stay informed about local market conditions. If your property grows in value or rental demand increases, it may open the door to further investment down the line.

Think about how long you plan to keep the property and what might prompt you to sell. Before you buy, have a chat with your accountant or tax adviser about the exit strategies that could work for your situation.

Thinking of buying interstate?

If you’d like help understanding your borrowing power, getting pre-approval, or structuring your finance to support an investment purchase, feel free to get in touch. I can walk you through the process and help you feel confident every step of the way.

If you’re looking to buy a property, it’s important to remember that your gambling habits could be taken into account when you apply for a home loan.

Your lender will look at any track record of gambling when assessing your financial situation and ability to repay the mortgage.

Not only could gambling jeopardise your chances of being approved for a loan, but it could also impact your ability to refinance down the track.

Understanding the process

When you apply for a home loan, your lender will do an affordability assessment. As part of this, they’ll assess your income (from all sources) against your outgoings (your regular expenses). They’ll also likely check your credit score.

If a lender sees evidence of regular gambling transactions as part of your expenses, it may be a red flag. They’ll look at how much money you’re gambling, how frequently you’re betting and what type of gambling you’re participating in.

If it’s a small amount you’re gambling relatively infrequently for leisure, it probably won’t raise any alarm bells with the lender. The occasional Powerball ticket, for example, will be considered harmless. However, if it’s an ongoing habit that’s getting out of control, it could limit your ability to secure finance.

How to turn things around

There are steps you can take to try to maximise your chances of getting approved for a home loan if you do have a history of gambling.

• Domino your debts: Paying off your debts – whether it be credit card debt, car loan or personal loans – is a good place to start, as it shows you are able to manage your finances effectively.
• Budget and save: A strong track record of saving will go down well with lenders. Keep putting money aside regularly and grow your savings nest egg.
• Boost your credit score: You can access your credit score and credit report for free every few months. If you notice any errors in the report, contact the credit provider. The government’s moneysmart website offers tips on how to improve your credit score, such as lowering your credit card limit, paying your utility bills on time and keeping on top of credit card repayments.
• Stop gambling: If you think your gambling may jeopardise your home loan application, try to reduce or quit gambling.

Seeking help

There are many resources available to help you tackle a gambling addiction. GambleAware offers tools and support for those who are looking to stop gambling. The site includes a gambling assessment to see how the habit may be impacting your life, as well as research and links to gambling support groups.

You can also get immediate support from Gambling Help Online on 1800 858 858. It’s free and confidential. Other options can be found on the Health Direct website.

Like to talk through your finance options?

If you’d like to know more about how your gambling habit may affect your home loan application, we’re here to answer your questions.

Talk to us confidentially about your financial situation and we’ll help you work towards getting the finance you need.

When it comes to taking out a home loan, all the options can be overwhelming.

Should you go with a Big Four bank or a lender that’s less known?

Is it best to choose a variable home loan or a fixed-rate loan in today’s lending environment?

With so many questions to ponder, it’s little wonder why more Australians than ever are choosing to use a mortgage broker.

The mortgage broker market share hit a record high of 76 percent in the December quarter.
That’s right – three in four borrowers now use a mortgage broker to help them navigate the home loan application and approval process.

Here are some compelling reasons why Aussies are placing their trust in the expertise of their brokers, rather than going direct to a lender.

Maximise your borrowing power

Different lenders have different lending criteria, so the amount one bank will lend you may vary considerably compared to a competitor.

Mortgage brokers understand the nuances between lenders and their home loan products.

If you want to maximise your borrowing power or you have a complex financial situation (for example, you’re self-employed), a mortgage broker can help get you over the line with finance.

Options that work for you

Mortgage brokers work with a wide range of lenders, giving you access to many different home loan products.

A broker will take the time to understand your specific financial situation and goals, then recommend a home loan that suits your needs.

A bank, on the other hand, is solely interested in getting your business.

Access to special offers

Some lenders offer special home loans or products based on your profession.

If you’re a teacher or a doctor or you’re self-employed, for example, your broker could line you up with a lender that may have special offers for you.

Brokers may also be able to negotiate a more competitive interest rate or loan terms on your behalf.
However, if you went direct to the bank yourself, you’d be the one doing the negotiating.

Brokers have your back

A broker is bound by a Best Interests Duty, meaning they are legally obliged to put your interests first.
That means providing home loan options that are based on your unique circumstances and goals.

Someone to do the legwork for you

For many borrowers, having someone to walk them through the pre-approval and home loan application process is invaluable.

Your broker will take care of the paperwork and optimise your chances of a successful home loan application.

A mortgage broker can also answer questions at any point in the home loan journey – whether you’re curious to know what your borrowing capacity is, or you want to evaluate your home loan 12 months after settlement.

Ready to chat about your finance needs?

For most people, buying a property is the biggest financial decision of their life. You want to get it right.

Using a mortgage broker makes the process smoother and more efficient, while also potentially saving you time and money.

To explore your borrowing capacity, organise pre-approval or to review your current home loan, get in touch today and discover why three in four Aussies use a broker.