Car Loans Australia :: Articles

Pros and Cons of Switching Your Mortgage Lender

What are the pros and cons of switching mortgage lenders in Australia?

Pros and Cons of Switching Your Mortgage Lender

The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.

The concept of home loan refinancing has gained significant popularity among Australian homeowners in recent times, with hundreds of thousands of individuals switching mortgage lenders in search of better home loan rates over the past 12 months alone.

There are numerous reasons for refinancing, including speculation about interest rate hikes, an array of lending options, dissatisfaction with current lender's service, the need for more mortgage flexibility, and the opportunity to pay off a home loan sooner. Some individuals also refinance to consolidate high-interest debt into a lower paying loan such as a mortgage or to tap into the equity in their homes to fund renovations or other investments.

However, refinancing can come with substantial costs. The expenses can run into the tens of thousands, including valuation fees, early discharge fees, application fees, mortgage insurance, and stamp duty (depending on your State).

Time to Refinance?
Image for Time to Refinance?If you are seeking lower rates, lower fees and more flexibility in your home loan. you are in luck! Our national panel of mortgage brokers is looking forward to an opportunity to assist you. Apply online for a free eligibility assessment and one of our broker network refinance specialists will get on the case to track down the best deal for your individual circumstances. Without any obligation and at no charge to you!

Refinancing can also be a time-consuming process as one has to deal with two lenders instead of one and the associated paperwork.

While a mortgage broker can help match you with the right lender and manage the process, it's important to note that brokers receive an upfront fee of around 0.4% of the loan amount and ongoing commissions that may represent 0.2% of the loan balance.

Before refinancing, it's advisable to contact your current lender to see if they can offer you a better deal. Additionally, one should consider the costs of refinancing and the time it will take to recoup them.

If you're planning to sell the property in the short-term, refinancing may not be the best option, but if you're planning to keep it for the long-term, the costs might be worth the hassle. If your calculations show that you can save money by switching lenders, remember to ask if your current lender can match the deal you are considering.

Published: Thursday, 29th Mar 2007
Author: 2


Car Loans Articles

The Role of Loan Terms in Car Buying: Flexibility Explained
The Role of Loan Terms in Car Buying: Flexibility Explained
When it comes to buying a car, understanding the loan terms is just as essential as choosing the right make and model. The terms of a loan can significantly affect your financial journey beyond just the asking price. In a marketplace brimming with attractive deals, comprehending these terms can be your greatest asset, ensuring you drive away with a well-suited financing plan. - read more
5 Critical Steps to Take Before Applying for a Car Loan in Australia
5 Critical Steps to Take Before Applying for a Car Loan in Australia
Stepping into the world of auto financing can be as daunting as it is exciting. The commitment of a new car loan demands more than just desiring your dream car; it necessitates a balanced budget and a solid financial plan. Understanding how to prepare before signing on that dotted line is not only wise, it’s imperative for your financial health. - read more
The Complete Checklist for Choosing a Car Loan Provider in Australia
The Complete Checklist for Choosing a Car Loan Provider in Australia
Finding the right car loan in Australia can be just as critical as selecting the car itself. Car finance, though a common undertaking, involves nuanced decisions that can have a significant impact on your financial future. - read more
The Pros and Cons of Car Loans for Used Vehicles in Australia
The Pros and Cons of Car Loans for Used Vehicles in Australia
With the rising cost of living, many Australians are opting for used vehicles as a cost-effective alternative to brand-new cars. Buying a used car can offer significant savings, reducing the initial financial burden while still providing reliable transportation. - read more
Fixed vs. Variable Interest Rates: Which Car Loan is Right for You?
Fixed vs. Variable Interest Rates: Which Car Loan is Right for You?
Purchasing a car is a major financial decision for many Australians, and it often involves securing a loan. With numerous options available, navigating the car loan landscape can be overwhelming. Understanding your choices is essential for finding the loan that best suits your needs. - read more

Finance News

March 2025: Australian New Car Sales Experience Slight Decline
March 2025: Australian New Car Sales Experience Slight Decline
17 Nov 2025: Paige Estritori
In March 2025, Australia's automotive market recorded a slight downturn, with new car sales totaling 108,606 units—a 0.9% decrease compared to the same month in the previous year. This marginal decline reflects the ongoing economic pressures affecting consumer spending habits. - read more
Green Loans Drive Down Personal Loan Averages in Australia
Green Loans Drive Down Personal Loan Averages in Australia
17 Nov 2025: Paige Estritori
In recent developments within Australia's financial sector, the increasing availability of green loans has begun to influence the average rates of personal loans. Green loans, designed to finance environmentally friendly initiatives such as the purchase of electric or hybrid vehicles and sustainable home upgrades, are typically offered at lower interest rates compared to standard personal loans. - read more
RBA Rate Cuts Provide Mortgage Relief, Personal Loan Rates Unchanged
RBA Rate Cuts Provide Mortgage Relief, Personal Loan Rates Unchanged
17 Nov 2025: Paige Estritori
In 2025, the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) implemented a series of rate cuts, reducing the cash rate from 4.35% to 3.60%. This move was aimed at alleviating financial pressures on borrowers, particularly mortgage holders. Consequently, most lenders, including the major banks, promptly mirrored these reductions, leading to lower mortgage rates and providing relief to homeowners. - read more
Australia's Electric Vehicle Financing Hits $6 Billion Milestone in 2024
Australia's Electric Vehicle Financing Hits $6 Billion Milestone in 2024
09 Nov 2025: Paige Estritori
In 2024, Australia witnessed a remarkable surge in electric and hybrid vehicle financing, with total loans reaching $6.17 billion—a 50% increase from the previous year. This substantial growth underscores a nationwide shift towards more sustainable transportation options. - read more
Westpac Resolves Auto Finance Class Action with $81 Million Settlement
Westpac Resolves Auto Finance Class Action with $81 Million Settlement
01 Nov 2025: Paige Estritori
Australia's Westpac Banking Corporation has reached a settlement of A$130 million (approximately $81.84 million) to resolve a class action lawsuit concerning its auto finance practices. The lawsuit, initiated by law firm Maurice Blackburn in 2020, alleged that between March 1, 2013, and October 31, 2018, Westpac and its subsidiary, St George Finance, permitted car dealers to increase interest rates on car loans to earn higher commissions. - read more

Need Help Finding a Loan?
Get a free car loan eligibility assessment and compare offers tailored specifically to your circumstances.

Let's help find your car loan!

Loan Amount:
Postcode:
All quotes are provided free and without obligation by a specialist from our national broker referral panel. See our privacy statement for more details.
All finance quotes are provided free (via our secure server) and without obligation.
We respect your privacy.

Knowledgebase
Liquidity:
The ease with which an asset or security can be converted into cash without affecting its market price.