subject: Getting the Best Home Loan in Australia [print this page] Getting the Best Home Loan in Australia Getting the Best Home Loan in Australia
Home ownership can be an exciting but daunting task. Knowing where to start, and how to be in a position to get the best home loan available, just takes some time and a little bit of research. Becoming familiar with the terms and process for securing a home loan, and knowing what the banks are looking for in a customer are key in getting the best home loan. Also, knowing when to seek the advice of a professional and when you can do things on your own, will help save money and give you confidence when approaching lenders.
Finances
Begin preparing as early as possible for the eventuality of seeking home ownership. Keeping careful watch of your credit and making smart financial choices can go a long way in helping to secure the best home loan rates.
There are some steps you can take to put yourself in the best financial health. First, if you don't already have one, open a savings account. Showing that you have an established bank account, and money already put aside for the down payment is a great way to show financial stability. Second, be sure to improve your credit by paying off debt and being sure to not carry to much open credit through credit cards and other loans. Finally, consider combining any household income. By applying for a home loan with a spouse or partner, both incomes will be considered which is better in determining how much money you are eligible to borrow.
Compare Rates
Just like when shopping for any big purchase and looking for the best deal, shopping for a home loan should be the same. Visiting many financial institutions and comparing their rates is a smart step to ensuring the best home loan. Don't be intimidated by the banks and lenders, they are seeking your business and are in competition with other lenders. Therefore, you have some negotiating power. Know that each lender is different and has their own rates and own criteria for approving home loans. By shopping around, you might find that you can get a larger home loan from one lender or a better interest rate from another. Don't worry about judging your own financial health, lenders will work with you to see what kind of rates and loans you are eligible for.
Negotiate
The worst a lender can say is no, so the key is to just ask. Ask if there are fees that can be waived, perhaps the loan application fee. If you are a loyal customer of the bank, ask if there are discounts or considerations for having multiple accounts with the lender. Again, the banks want your business, so you are the one with the leverage. Be confident and work with various lenders to find the best rates, and the ones who are willing to work with you to save you some money.
Seek Expert Advice
If you have a tough financial situation, perhaps no savings, or a bankruptcy in your past, it might be best to seek the assistance of a professional. While you will have to pay for the services of a financial planner or adviser, or a realtor or lawyer, the money that you could save by securing a better home loan will be worth it. Professionals will know how to negotiate the best terms for your particular financial situation or tell you how to put yourself in a better position to apply for a home loan.
