That is one of the most common questions we’ve been hearing from clients right now.

It’s a great question—and in the current Australian lending environment, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer.

After several years of rising interest rates, many lenders are now competing harder for borrowers. Some are offering sharper variable rates, cashback alternatives, fee waivers, and refinance incentives. At the same time, fixed rates have become more attractive than they were during the peak of the rate cycle.

So, what does that mean for homeowners, refinancers, and buyers in 2026?

Let’s break it down in simple terms.

What’s Happening in the Australian Mortgage Market?

As of June 2026:

• The RBA cash rate has eased from its peak, but lenders have not passed on every reduction in full.
• Variable rates have become more competitive, especially for borrowers with strong equity.
• Fixed rates are generally lower than they were 12–18 months ago, but they’re still not as low as the ultra-cheap rates seen during 2021.
• Many borrowers are coming off older fixed rates and are reassessing their loan structure.

This is why reviewing your home loan has become more important than ever.

What Is a Variable Home Loan?

A variable loan means your interest rate can move up or down over time.

Pros of a variable loan

• You benefit if interest rates fall.
• Extra repayments are usually allowed without penalty.
• Offset accounts are commonly available.
• Redraw facilities provide flexibility.

Cons of a variable loan

• Repayments can increase if rates rise.
• Budgeting can be less predictable.
• Market changes may affect your cash flow.

Best suited for

• Borrowers who want flexibility.
• Homeowners with offset savings.
• People planning renovations, investing, or making extra repayments.
• Borrowers who expect rates to continue easing.

What Is a Fixed Home Loan?

A fixed loan locks in your interest rate for a set period, usually one to five years.

Pros of a fixed loan

• Repayments stay the same during the fixed term.
• Easier to budget.
• Protection against future rate increases.
• Peace of mind for families and first home buyers.

Cons of a fixed loan

• Limited flexibility.
• Extra repayments are usually capped.
• Offset account features may be restricted.
• Break costs can apply if you refinance or sell during the fixed term.

Best suited for

• Borrowers with tight household budgets.
• First home buyers wanting certainty.
• Families with upcoming expenses.
• Anyone who values stability over flexibility.

So… Which Option Is Better Right Now?

Here’s the honest answer:

In the current market, many lenders are pricing variable loans very aggressively, while fixed rates are offering more certainty than they did during the height of the rate cycle.

That means the decision should be based on your goals, not just the headline rate.

The Option Many Borrowers Overlook: Split Loans

A split loan combines both fixed and variable portions.

For example:

• 50% fixed
• 50% variable

This can give you:

• some repayment certainty,
• access to an offset account on the variable portion,
• and the ability to make extra repayments.

For borrowers who are unsure where rates are heading, a split loan can be a sensible middle ground.

Why Comparing Lenders Is More Important Than Ever

One of the biggest mistakes we see is borrowers staying with their current lender without reviewing their options.

In 2026, the difference between lenders can be significant. Two borrowers with the same income and property value may receive very different rates depending on:

• their loan-to-value ratio (LVR),
• whether they’re refinancing,
• the size of the loan,
• and the lender’s current pricing campaign.

A mortgage broker can compare a wide range of lenders and negotiate on your behalf, rather than relying on a single bank’s offer.

A Quick Example

Imagine a borrower with a $650,000 loan.

• A slightly lower variable rate could reduce repayments and improve cash flow.
• A fixed rate might cost a little more, but it could provide certainty for the next few years.
• A split loan could provide a balance between the two.

The “best” option depends on whether that borrower is focused on saving money, reducing risk, or improving flexibility.

Not Sure Which Loan Structure Is Right for You? Choosing between fixed and variable isn’t just about predicting the RBA—it’s about choosing a loan that fits your income, savings, future plans, and comfort level with risk.

If you’d like a personalised comparison, the team at QMP Financial can help you review your current loan and explain the pros and cons of each option.

At QMP Financial, we’re currently helping many clients with:

• refinancing from older fixed rates,
• reviewing whether their current variable rate is still competitive,
• structuring split loans,
• and using equity to purchase investment properties.

In many cases, clients are surprised to discover they may be able to secure a better rate or a more suitable loan structure simply by reviewing their options.

Book your free finance consultation today and find out whether a fixed, variable, or split loan makes the most sense for your situation.

The post Is Now the Right Time to Fix Your Home Loan? A Guide for Australian Borrowers first appeared on Mortgage Brokers Brisbane Gold Coast.

Whether you’re a homeowner, first home buyer, investor, or looking to refinance, taking a few simple steps now can help you save money and put yourself in a stronger financial position for the year ahead.

Here are eight smart financial moves to consider.

Review Your Home Loan

Interest rates and lending products change regularly. If you haven’t reviewed your mortgage in the last year, you could be paying more than you need to.

Ask yourself:

• Is my interest rate still competitive?
• Does my loan still suit my needs?
• Could refinancing help reduce my repayments or unlock equity?

Even a small reduction in your interest rate may save you thousands over the life of your loan.

Set Clear Financial Goals

Having a plan makes it easier to stay on track.

Think about what you want to achieve over the next twelve months:

• Buy your first home
• Upgrade to a larger property
• Purchase an investment property
• Renovate your home
• Pay off debt faster
• Build your savings

Once you know your goals, you can create a financial strategy to help you achieve them.

Create or Update Your Budget

A fresh financial year is a great time to review your income and expenses.

Look for areas where you can:

• Reduce unnecessary spending
• Increase your savings
• Pay extra towards your mortgage
• Build an emergency fund

Small changes each month can make a big difference over time.

Check Your Borrowing Power

f you’re planning to buy property this year, it’s worth understanding how much you may be able to borrow before you start searching.

Your borrowing capacity can change depending on:

• Income
• Existing debts
• Living expenses
• Interest rates
• Credit history

Knowing your borrowing power helps you plan with confidence.

Make the Most of Your Home Equity

If you’ve owned your property for a while, you may have built equity that could help you achieve your next financial goal.

Home equity may be used for:

• Buying an investment property
• Home renovations
• Debt consolidation
• Purchasing another home

A mortgage broker can help you understand your options and whether accessing equity is right for your situation.

Review Your Insurance

The new financial year is also a good reminder to review your insurance policies.

Consider checking your:

• Home insurance
• Contents insurance
• Income protection
• Life insurance

Making sure your cover is up to date can help protect you and your family if circumstances change.

Improve Your Credit Position

A healthy credit profile can improve your chances of securing a competitive home loan.

Simple ways to improve your financial position include:

• Paying bills on time
• Reducing credit card balances
• Avoiding unnecessary debt
• Keeping your personal information up to date

These habits can strengthen future lending applications.

Speak with a Mortgage Broker Before Making Big Financial Decisions

Whether you’re buying, refinancing, investing, or simply reviewing your options, getting professional guidance can help you make informed decisions.

Every borrower has different goals, and the right loan structure today may help support your plans well into the future.

The beginning of a new financial year is the perfect time to take control of your finances and plan for what’s next.

At QMP Financial, we help Australians navigate the home loan process with personalised advice tailored to their financial goals. Whether you’re purchasing your first home, refinancing an existing loan, or growing your property portfolio, we’re here to help.

Book your free finance consultation today and let’s build a strategy that works for you.

The post New Financial Year, New Financial Goals: 8 Smart Money Moves to Make This Financial Year first appeared on Mortgage Brokers Brisbane Gold Coast.

What Does EOFY Mean?

The end of the financial year marks the close of Australia’s annual tax period, running from 1 July to 30 June. It’s the time when individuals and businesses review their financial position, finalise records, and prepare to meet their tax obligations.

Whether you’re a PAYG employee, self-employed, running a small business, or managing investment properties, EOFY is an important opportunity to get your finances in order and start the new financial year on the right foot.

Why EOFY Matters

For many Australians, EOFY is more than just lodging a tax return. It’s a chance to take a closer look at spending habits, review financial goals, and ensure everything is up to date.

If you’ve purchased an investment property, started a side business, changed jobs, or received income from multiple sources during the year, now is the time to make sure those details are properly accounted for.

Documents You’ll Need for EOFY

One of the most important steps is gathering all the documents you’ll need. This may include:

• Income statements
• Investment income records
• Receipts for work-related expenses
• Bank statements
• Documentation relating to deductions you intend to claim

Business owners should also ensure their financial records are accurate and complete, including profit and loss statements, balance sheets, invoices, and records of business expenses.

Make EOFY Easier with Digital Tools

The good news is that technology has made EOFY preparation much easier than it used to be. Accounting platforms such as Xero, MYOB, and QuickBooks can help automate record keeping, track expenses, and generate reports when needed.

Keeping digital records throughout the year can significantly reduce the workload when tax time arrives and help ensure important information isn’t overlooked.

Important EOFY 2026 Tax Return Dates

Timing is critical when it comes to meeting your tax obligations.

Individual tax returns for the 2025–2026 financial year can be lodged from 1 July 2026 and are generally due by 31 October 2026.

If you’re working with a registered tax agent, you may be eligible for an extended lodgement deadline, provided you’re registered with them before the October cut-off.

For businesses operating through a company structure, lodgement deadlines may differ, with many company tax returns due in early 2027. It’s always a good idea to confirm your specific deadline with your accountant or tax professional.

EOFY Is Also a Good Time to Review Your Mortgage

If you’re a property owner or investor, EOFY can be a valuable time to review your lending arrangements.

With rising living costs and ongoing interest rate changes, many Australians are taking a closer look at their finances. Reviewing your mortgage, checking whether you’re still on a competitive rate, and exploring refinancing opportunities could potentially improve your cash flow and overall financial position heading into the new financial year.

A simple review could reveal opportunities to reduce repayments, access equity, or better align your loan with your current goals.

Don’t Leave It Until the Last Minute

One of the biggest EOFY mistakes is waiting until June to start organising documents. Last-minute preparation often creates unnecessary stress and increases the risk of missing important information.

Starting early gives you time to gather records, identify any gaps, seek professional advice if required, and ensure everything is ready when lodgement opens.

While EOFY can seem daunting, it doesn’t need to be. Staying organised, keeping accurate records, and seeking guidance from trusted professionals can make the process far smoother.

More importantly, EOFY is an opportunity to reset, review your financial position, and put plans in place for the year ahead.

If you’d like to review your current mortgage, explore refinancing opportunities, or discuss your financial goals for the new financial year, the team at QMP Financial is here to help. Contact us today and let’s make sure you’re heading into the next financial year with confidence.

The post Feeling the EOFY Stress? Here’s How to Get Ahead for 2026 first appeared on Mortgage Brokers Brisbane Gold Coast.

That is why the Federal Government’s proposed changes to negative gearing, announced as part of the 2026 Federal Budget, have attracted significant attention from investors, homebuyers, and property professionals alike.

While the proposed reforms are still working their way through Parliament, they have already sparked debate about what the future of negative gearing could look like and how the changes may affect Australia’s property market.

Why Is the Government Looking at Negative Gearing?

The Government has stated that the proposed negative gearing reforms are designed to improve housing affordability and encourage investment in newly built homes. By directing more investor activity towards new housing supply, the Government hopes to support housing construction while making it easier for first-home buyers to compete in the established property market.

Housing affordability remains a key issue across Australia, particularly in major cities where demand continues to outpace supply. The proposed negative gearing changes form part of a broader strategy aimed at increasing the availability of housing and supporting future growth.

How Could Negative Gearing Change?

Under the current rules, negative gearing allows property investors to claim a tax deduction when the costs of owning an investment property exceed the rental income it generates. These losses can often be offset against other forms of income, such as wages and salaries.

Under the proposed reforms, negative gearing would continue to apply to newly built residential properties. However, investors purchasing established residential properties after the proposed commencement date may no longer be able to use negatively geared losses to reduce their taxable employment income.

Instead, those losses may only be available to offset future rental income or capital gains from residential property investments.

Importantly, the Government has indicated that existing investment properties are expected to be grandfathered, meaning current owners would generally retain access to the existing negative gearing arrangements.

What About Capital Gains Tax?

Alongside the proposed negative gearing reforms, the Federal Budget also included plans to change the way capital gains tax (CGT) is calculated on investment assets.

Currently, investors who hold an asset for more than 12 months may qualify for a 50% CGT discount when they sell and realise a capital gain. The Government has proposed replacing this discount with an indexed cost-base system, which aims to ensure investors are taxed on real gains rather than gains that may simply reflect inflation over time.

These proposed capital gains tax changes would work alongside the negative gearing reforms as part of the Government’s broader housing and tax policy agenda.

What Could the Negative Gearing Changes Mean for Investors?

For many investors, negative gearing is only one part of a much larger investment strategy. Factors such as rental demand, property growth, cash flow, interest rates, and borrowing capacity often play an equally important role when assessing an investment opportunity.

If the proposed negative gearing changes proceed, future investors may place greater emphasis on newly built properties, where the tax benefits would remain available. Some market commentators believe this could help stimulate housing construction, while others have expressed concerns about potential impacts on rental supply and investor participation.

As with any major policy proposal, the overall market impact will depend on a range of economic and property market conditions over time.

What Should Property Investors Do Now?

At this stage, the proposed negative gearing reforms have not yet become law. The legislation must still complete the parliamentary process, and there is always the possibility that changes could be made before any final implementation.

For investors considering their next move, now may be a good opportunity to review their plans and understand how different scenarios could affect their long-term goals. Whether you are purchasing your first investment property, expanding your portfolio, or reviewing your existing lending structure, it is important to make decisions based on your overall financial position rather than tax considerations alone.

The Bottom Line on Negative Gearing

Negative gearing has been a cornerstone of Australian property investing for decades, which is why any proposed changes naturally attract significant attention. While the Government believes the reforms could help improve housing affordability and encourage new housing supply, there remains ongoing debate about how the changes could affect investors and the broader property market.

For now, the key message is that the proposed negative gearing reforms are still under review and have not yet been implemented. Staying informed and seeking professional advice can help you understand how any future changes may impact your property investment strategy and borrowing options.

As the conversation around negative gearing continues to evolve, investors who focus on long-term planning and informed decision-making will be best placed to navigate whatever changes may lie ahead.

If you’re unsure how the proposed negative gearing changes could affect your current property, future investment plans, or borrowing capacity, it’s a good time to get clarity before any legislation takes effect. Every investor’s situation is different, and having the right advice can make a significant difference to your long-term strategy.

If you’d like to discuss your options or understand how these changes may impact you personally, feel free to contact us at QMP Financial. We’re here to help you navigate your property and lending decisions with confidence.

The post The Truth About Negative Gearing Changes in the 2026 Budget first appeared on Mortgage Brokers Brisbane Gold Coast.

What Is a Pre-Approval

A pre-approval is an indication from a lender that a borrower is eligible to borrow up to a certain amount based on their financial situation. It’s not a guaranteed loan approval, but it’s the closest thing to a green light before a property is selected. Essentially, it tells buyers, “Yes, your finances meet our criteria, and you’re likely to be approved once a suitable property is found.” This reassurance helps clients search for homes confidently within a realistic budget.

How to Qualify for a Pre-Approval

Qualifying for a pre-approval means showing the lender that the borrower is financially stable, responsible, and capable of meeting future repayments. Lenders look for consistent income, manageable debts, genuine savings, and a clean credit history. They also check if living expenses are reasonable and if the borrower can comfortably afford repayments even if interest rates increase. Meeting these criteria gives lenders confidence that the borrower is a strong candidate for a home loan.

Getting the Documents Ready

The pre-approval process begins with gathering the essentials. Lenders need to see identification, payslips, bank statements, tax returns where needed, and a snapshot of living expenses. This is the foundation of the application, and it’s how lenders verify that everything matches their policy requirements. PAYG income is usually assessed using base salary, while overtime, bonuses, or commissions are only counted if they can be proven as regular. Self-employed clients undergo a deeper review, where lenders look at tax returns and financials to check the stability of the business.

Checking Liabilities and Living Expenses

Once income is confirmed, lenders move on to liabilities and expenses. Every credit card, personal loan, car loan, HECS/HELP debt, and even buy-now-pay-later activity must be included. Even an Afterpay balance sitting at zero is still assessed because it counts as an active facility. Lenders also compare declared expenses with benchmarks to make sure the figures are realistic. This step helps them understand how comfortably a borrower can take on a mortgage.

Calculating Borrowing Capacity

With income and expenses verified, lenders calculate borrowing power. They use what’s called an assessment rate—usually the actual interest rate plus around 3%—to make sure the borrower can still afford repayments if rates rise. This buffer forms a big part of the lender’s policy and plays a huge role in determining the maximum loan amount.

Running the Credit Check

Lenders then run a credit check to assess repayment history and financial behaviour. They look for late payments, defaults, or too many enquiries in a short timeframe. A clean credit report supports the application, but even a few issues don’t automatically mean a decline. Lenders simply want to understand the story behind the numbers.

Getting the Pre-Approval

If everything aligns with the lender’s policy, the pre-approval is issued. Some banks provide instant automated approvals for simple applications, while more complex cases go through a manual assessment. Most pre-approvals last between 60 and 90 days and can be refreshed if needed. This gives clients a clear budget range and confidence while they shop for a home.

When the Right Property Is Found

Once a buyer chooses a property, the lender updates the application with the property details, orders a valuation, and checks for any changes in the client’s financial situation. Because most of the heavy lifting has already been done at the pre-approval stage, this part usually moves faster. The valuation must meet lender standards to make sure the property is suitable security for the loan.

Understanding how pre-approval works helps clients feel more prepared and less stressed during their property search. It’s not a guarantee, but it’s a powerful tool that gives clarity, direction, and peace of mind. With most of the assessment already done upfront, buyers can focus on finding the right home—knowing they’re backed by a lender who has already reviewed their financial picture. If they’re ready to take the first step, have questions, or want guidance through the process, they’re always welcome to contact us anytime.

The post Pre-Approval Made Simple: How to Qualify and What Lenders Look For first appeared on Mortgage Brokers Brisbane Gold Coast.

Inflation Pressures Remain Persistent

Recent data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics shows annual trimmed mean inflation rising to 3.4% in the 12 months to January 2026, a slight uptick from 3.3% in December. This increase signals that underlying price pressures are sticking around, and inflation still hasn’t returned to the RBA’s preferred 2–3% target range.

What’s Driving the Rate Increase?

During a recent address, RBA governor Michele Bullock outlined several key factors influencing the Board’s decision. She pointed to stronger-than-expected private demand, a still-tight labour market and a gradual rise in near-term inflation expectations over the past six months. With demand continuing to exceed the economy’s supply capacity, the Board determined that further tightening is needed to steer inflation back toward target within a reasonable timeframe.

What This Means for Borrowers

For borrowers, every rate change is a reminder of how quickly financial conditions can shift. Rising rates can influence monthly repayments, borrowing power and lending sentiment—but they also present an opportunity to reassess whether a current loan structure still aligns with long-term goals. Even in a tightening environment, options such as refinancing, rate reviews or exploring new product offerings can help strengthen a borrower’s position.

With the cash rate now sitting at 4.10%, it’s an ideal moment for homeowners and future buyers to revisit their strategy. Ensuring your loan continues to work in your favour can make all the difference during uncertain periods. If you’d like support reviewing your options or understanding how this change may affect you, contact us today—we’re here to provide personalised guidance and help you move forward with confidence.

The post Australia’s Cash Rate Jumps to 4.10%: What You Need to Know Right Now first appeared on Mortgage Brokers Brisbane Gold Coast.

Experience and Convenience Remain Key Drivers

More respondents identified a broker’s market knowledge as a leading reason for seeking support, with growing numbers also highlighting how much easier and more efficient the lending process becomes when guided by a professional. While access to a variety of lenders is still important, borrowers are shifting their focus toward the quality of advice and the overall service experience.

Satisfaction and Trust Continue to Strengthen

The research shows that satisfaction with brokers remains exceptionally high, especially around communication and accessibility. Many borrowers felt that their broker acted in their best interests, and reported issues continued to decline. Trust also strengthened, particularly among those who had recently worked with a broker—reinforcing how positive interactions continue to shape industry confidence.

The Importance of Genuine Expertise

Although trust levels are strong, the study highlighted shifting borrower expectations. Concerns around communication, advice quality, and payment clarity have grown slightly, and many Australians are becoming more conscious of choosing a broker with genuine market experience. Despite these emerging pressure points, perceptions around mortgage brokers improved, with fewer borrowers feeling that their interests weren’t prioritised.

Loyalty Holds Strong Despite Rising DIY Options

Even as digital tools and direct-to-lender pathways gain traction, loyalty to brokers remains steady. Most respondents said they would use the same broker again, and referrals continue to be a major source of new clients. Women, in particular, were more likely to choose their broker based on a recommendation from friends or family. Meanwhile, increased interest in government initiatives such as Help to Buy is leading more borrowers to seek clear, personalised guidance.

If you’re planning to enter the market, refinance, or simply want clarity in a fast-changing environment, now is the perfect time to reach out. Contact us today and let our team guide you with the expertise, transparency, and personal support borrowers value most.

The post The Numbers Are In… and Brokers Are Leading the Way first appeared on Mortgage Brokers Brisbane Gold Coast.

How Rising Inflation Affects Interest Rates

For everyday Australians, this latest jump in inflation isn’t just a number on a chart — it directly influences the cost of living and, more importantly, the direction of interest rates. When inflation rises, it signals to the RBA that the economy might still be running hotter than ideal. As a result, rather than easing interest rates to give borrowers some breathing room, the central bank may decide to hold steady or even wait longer before making any cuts.

The Biggest Price Hikes Driving Inflation

The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) reported that the Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose by 3.2 per cent over the year to September, driven by higher housing, transport, and recreation costs. Electricity prices surged 9 per cent during the quarter, contributing heavily to overall price growth. Annual electricity costs have jumped a staggering 23.6 per cent as several state government rebates have come to an end. Property rates and council levies also saw their largest rise in over a decade, pushing household budgets even further.

What This Means for Homeowners

For homeowners, this means the cost of running a home — from energy to council rates — continues to climb. Even though rental inflation has eased slightly, the broader picture remains challenging for both property owners and those looking to buy. A higher inflation rate often delays relief on mortgage repayments, since rate cuts are less likely when the economy still shows strong price pressures.

Banks Adjust Their Forecasts

The big banks have already adjusted their outlooks in response. The Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA) noted that the unexpected strength in trimmed mean inflation makes a rate hold more likely for a “prolonged period.” Westpac and Bendigo Bank have also hinted at pushing back their forecasts for the next rate cut, with some now expecting any movement to come as late as February 2026.

What Borrowers Can Do Now

For borrowers, this means the current higher-rate environment could stick around a little longer than hoped. It’s another reminder of how closely inflation and interest rates are tied — and how shifts in one can ripple quickly through household budgets. While this may feel discouraging, it’s also a good opportunity for homeowners to review their current loan, explore refinancing options, or speak with their broker about strategies to stay ahead of rising costs.

Inflation may be rising, but with the right advice and a proactive approach, homeowners and borrowers can still navigate the challenges and keep their financial goals on track — no matter what direction the next RBA decision takes.

Get in touch with our team today. We’re here to help you explore your options and find the right solution for your financial goals.

The post The Plot Twist No One Wanted: Inflation Makes a Comeback first appeared on Mortgage Brokers Brisbane Gold Coast.

Refinancing Is on the Rise

The latest Mortgage and Finance Association of Australia (MFAA) survey revealed that 99% of brokers helped clients refinance within the last six months. This is a clear sign that refinancing is no longer out of reach for many borrowers. Almost all clients who refinanced were also able to secure a discount, proving that better deals are on the table.

When you refinance, you can potentially reduce your repayments, unlock equity, or simply move to a loan that better suits your needs. With lenders becoming more flexible, now is a prime opportunity to consider refinancing.

Why More Borrowers Can Refinance Now

So, why is refinancing becoming more accessible? The biggest reason is the shift in economic conditions. Easing inflation and lower interest rates have opened the door for more borrowers to refinance.

At the same time, many homeowners are seeking help for the first time. In fact, 92% of brokers reported working with clients new to refinancing. This shows that more people are recognising the value of professional advice when it comes to navigating the refinance process.

Borrower Confidence Is Growing

Another positive trend is borrower confidence. Brokers observed that clients are starting to feel more optimistic about their finances now that refinance opportunities are available. While nearly half of clients remain “neutral,” more are showing a brighter outlook compared to earlier this year.

This shift highlights the impact of refinancing—by lowering repayments or securing better rates, households gain much-needed breathing room, which boosts financial confidence.

Brokers Are Helping Beyond Refinancing

While the chance to refinance has improved, challenges like cost-of-living pressures and job security concerns remain. That’s why 80% of brokers are now also supporting clients with hardship options.

Brokers aren’t just there to help you refinance; they’re also a trusted guide if financial stress arises. Whether you’re aiming to refinance to a more affordable loan or explore hardship support, having a broker makes the process easier.

Job Security and Housing Supply Concerns

Even though refinancing is now within reach for many, some borrowers remain cautious. Concerns about job security jumped from 4.8% earlier this year to 18.3%, while housing supply shortages continue to add pressure.

This means that while refinance opportunities are improving, broader issues like employment and housing availability still shape how confident borrowers feel about their future.

The key message is this: if you’ve been unable to refinance before, now may be the right time to take another look. With more lenders open to applications and brokers guiding clients through the refinance process, breaking free from mortgage prison is finally possible.

Contact us today to explore how we can help you refinance your home loan and secure a deal that works better for you.

The post Refinance and Break Free: How Borrowers Are Escaping Mortgage Prison first appeared on Mortgage Brokers Brisbane Gold Coast.

For years, first home buyers faced hurdles like strict income caps, limited scheme places, and property price ceilings that didn’t reflect today’s rising housing costs. The new changes aim to remove these barriers and make home ownership more achievable, even in a competitive property market.

What’s Changing?

Here’s a breakdown of the updates that will roll out from 1 October 2025:

• Unlimited places – No more limits on the number of guarantees. Any eligible first home buyer with a 5% deposit can apply.
• No income caps – Higher-income earners are now included, meaning more buyers can access the scheme.
• Higher property price caps – Adjustments have been made to reflect current market conditions, especially in capital cities and regional hubs.
• Simplified access in regional areas – The Regional First Home Buyer Guarantee will merge into the broader First Home Guarantee, streamlining the process.

These changes mean that buyers can secure a home with as little as a 5% deposit while avoiding LMI, a significant saving that can help them get into their first property sooner.

Property Price Caps Rising

Property price limits will also increase significantly in many areas, bringing them closer in line with market values. For example:

• NSW capital cities and regional centres: from $900,000 to $1.5 million
• QLD capital city and regional centres: from $700,000 to $1 million
• VIC capital city and regional centres: from $800,000 to $950,000

These adjustments provide greater flexibility for buyers in markets where housing prices have surged.

What This Means for Buyers

The expansion of the Home Guarantee Scheme could be a game-changer. With unlimited places and no income restrictions, the scheme opens the door for a wider range of Australians to step onto the property ladder.

Instead of competing for limited scheme slots, buyers can now plan their property journey with more confidence. Regional buyers also benefit from a more streamlined approach, ensuring fairer access across the country.

Getting Started

From 1 October 2025, buyers can:

1. Review their eligibility using the updated online tool.
2. Check new property price caps for their area.
3. Apply through a participating lender.

The updates to the Home Guarantee Scheme aim to give first home buyers a fairer shot at home ownership, even in today’s high-priced market. By removing restrictions and expanding access, the scheme supports more Australians in turning the dream of owning a home into reality.

Thinking about buying your first home? Now could be the time to prepare. Contact us today to explore your options and take advantage of these upcoming changes.

To find out more about the Scheme, and view our Frequently Asked Questions, visit the Housing Australia website here.

The Housing Australia Investment Mandate Amendment to effect these changes can be found here.

Note: These changes are not effective until 1 October 2025. The Home Guarantee Scheme is still available for borrowers to access today with the current eligibility criteria and price caps.

To read the Australian Government announcement, click here. 

The post Unlocking Doors: Big News for First Home Buyers first appeared on Mortgage Brokers Brisbane Gold Coast.