If you’re thinking about buying a property in 2025, already have a home loan, or you’re running a business – or all of the above – there are steps you can take to improve your situation.
Purchasing a property
To increase your chances of qualifying for a home loan and to maximise your borrowing capacity, you should aim to make yourself as creditworthy as possible in the eyes of lenders. That can be done by:
• Reducing your expenses. Shop around for better deals on your electricity, internet, phone and insurance plans; cancel subscriptions you barely use; eat in more often; and buy less stuff.
• Increasing your income. Ask for a raise, work more hours, get a second job or sub-lease a spare room in your home.
• Improving your credit score. Begin by ordering a free copy of your credit report, from Equifax or Experian. If you have incorrect negative listings, you can apply to have these removed. If you have a suboptimal score, you can work to increase it by paying off loans, making all your repayments on time, limiting your credit applications and reducing your credit card limit.
Keep a close eye on your mortgage
Do you already have a home loan? In that case, it is a good idea to remain aware of your interest rate and features, and compare that to other loans on the market. This is particularly important when there are cash rate cuts as lenders will likely cut interest rates and you may find some offering more competitive rates for new customers.
Contact me to see if your loan is still suitable and your interest rate is still competitive. I’ll let you know if you could improve your situation by refinancing to a new loan – and, if you decide to proceed, manage the application for you.
If you find yourself with additional debts to manage – such as a maxed-out credit card, a car loan or a personal loan – depending on your scenario, you might be able to reduce your interest bill (and simplify your finances) by consolidating several debts into your home loan. I’ll be happy to crunch the numbers for you, so you know whether debt consolidation would be a good move.
Improve your business in 2025
For business owners, there are two contrasting situations to be aware of. On the one hand, business failures are continuing to rise and are now at their highest rate since October 2020, during the pandemic, according to CreditorWatch. On the other hand, the Reserve Bank of Australia has forecast that economic growth will increase in 2025 (albeit off a low base).
If you’re thinking defensively, we could help you with cash flow finance. If you’re thinking about growth – and potentially taking advantage of the instant asset write-off – we could help you secure a business loan. Either way, get in touch to discuss your scenario, so we can work out a plan to move your business forward.
Licensing statement: Rayne Finance ABN [70 605 100 838] is authorised under LMG Broker Services Pty Ltd Australian Credit Licence 517192. Disclaimer: (1) As with any financial scenario there are risks involved. This information provides an overview or summary only and it should not be considered a comprehensive analysis. You should, before acting in reliance upon this information, seek independent professional lending or taxation advice as appropriate and specific to your objectives, financial circumstances or needs. This publication is provided on the terms and understanding that: (2) LMG Broker Services Pty Ltd, Rayne Finance (Seed Lending Pty Ltd) and the authors, consultants and editors are not responsible for the results of any actions taken on the basis of information in this publication, nor for any error in or omission from this publication. (3) LMG Broker Services Pty Ltd, Rayne Finance (Seed Lending Pty Ltd) and the authors, consultants and editors, expressly disclaim all and any liability and responsibility to the maximum extent permitted by the law to any person, whether a purchaser or reader of this publication or not, in respect of anything, and of the consequences of anything, done or omitted to be done by any such person in reliance, whether wholly or partially, upon the whole or any part of the contents of this publication.
Explore other FAQs and Facts
Your quick guide to guarantor home loans
Saving for a deposit can be challenging, but a guarantor home loan offers a solution. By having a guarantor, typically a parent or relative, cover part or all of the deposit, buyers could enter the property market sooner. With this support, you might qualify for a home loan with just 5% or even 0% savings.
Government opens up more housing assistance places
The federal government has expanded the Home Guarantee Scheme, offering an additional 50,000 places for 2024-2025. This includes 35,000 spots for first home buyers, 10,000 for regional buyers, and 5,000 for single parents. Eligible applicants can secure a home with a low deposit and avoid lender’s mortgage insurance.
Understanding Australia’s Major Banks’ Anti-Scam Platform
Seventeen banks, including the big four, have joined forces to combat scams with the Fraud Reporting Exchange (FRX). This innovative system enables near real-time communication between banks, allowing them to swiftly report and respond to fraudulent payments as they move across institutions, enhancing security for all customers.
7 steps to increase your borrowing power
Borrowing power can vary significantly based on financial circumstances and lender choice. While two friends with similar profiles might get approved for different amounts, you can take steps to potentially increase your borrowing power. These steps include reducing expenses, increasing income, reducing debt, lowering credit card limits, improving your credit score, saving a larger deposit, and consulting a broker.
How redraw facilities and offset accounts can save you money
Offset accounts and redraw facilities both reduce the interest on your home loan by applying extra funds. Redraw facilities lower interest while providing conditional access to your money. Offset accounts, acting like savings accounts, offer easier access and higher interest savings, despite potential fees. Choose based on your need for fund accessibility and flexibility.
Federal Budget 24/25 – what does it mean for you?
Discovering the impact of the 2024/2025 Federal Budget is vital in navigating the current economic landscape. With a focus on addressing the cost-of-living crisis and bolstering the construction sector, measures such as infrastructure investment, rent assistance, and tax cuts aim to alleviate financial burdens and stimulate growth.
How a broker guides your way to owning your first home
Dreaming of your first home? A mortgage broker can be your guiding light. From assessing your borrowing capacity to breaking down costs and exploring deposit options, they make the journey smoother. With their expertise, owning your dream home in Australia becomes not just a dream, but a tangible goal.
5 things to keep in mind before refinancing
Considering refinancing your home loan? While securing the lowest interest rate is tempting, it’s vital to assess beyond that. Lenders vary in serviceability criteria, fees, turnaround times, and lending criteria. Additionally, explore promotions and consider restructuring your loan for optimal outcomes. Learn 5 key factors to save time and money.
How to calculate your equity
If you’ve owned your home for some time, you likely have built up equity—a valuable asset. Equity represents the difference between your home’s value and what you owe on your mortgage. Understanding this figure can empower you financially and open up opportunities for leveraging your home’s value.
7 ways to maximise your returns as a property investor
If you’re looking to maximise returns as a property investor, strategic decisions are key. From choosing the right location to savvy renovations, each step impacts your bottom line. And don’t forget about refinancing—regularly reviewing your home loan could unlock significant savings.