Interest Only Repayments
Home loan repayments are generally made up of two components: the principal (your loan balance) and the interest (the amount you’re charged on the outstanding loan balance).
‘Interest only’ means you pay only the interest component on your loan for a select period of time. During this time, you’ll only be paying any accrued interest and won’t be paying off any of the principal amount.
What you need to know
- You’ll have smaller loan repayments during the interest only period, allowing more cash on hand for other purposes.
- However, while you may pay less during the interest only period, since you’re not paying off the principal, your repayments will be higher for the remainder of the loan term and you’ll typically pay more interest overall.
- The interest rate during the interest only term is typically higher than the principal and interest rate, meaning you will likely pay more interest over the life of the loan.
- There are typically limits on how long you can have an interest only period – your loan will automatically switch to principal and interest repayments after this period.
Let’s look at this example
If you take out a $500,000 loan with a 30 year loan term and have the option to pay
principal and interest at 3.85% or interest only for 3 years at 4.25%, this will be the
impact on your repayments.
- Principal and interest
You’ll pay $2,345 per month from the first year (subject to change based on
interest rates) - Interest only
You’ll pay approximately $1,771 for the first 3 years, however in year 4 if you start paying principal and interest, your repayments will increase to $2,597.
Need more information?
Interest only requirements may differ between lenders so it’s important to understand your chosen lender’s requirements.
It should be remembered that this fact sheet is intended to provide general information of an educational nature only.
It does not have regard to the financial situation or needs of any individual and must not be relied upon as financial
product advice.
As this information has been prepared without considering your objectives, financial situation or needs you should, before acting on this, consider the appropriateness to your circumstances. As always, if you have any questions, you can contact
your broker.
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
What the federal budget means for buying property
The 2025 federal budget introduces key measures affecting home buyers, including an expanded Help to Buy scheme, increased infrastructure investment, and incentives to grow the construction workforce. Foreign investors face new restrictions, and funding for prefabricated homes aims to accelerate supply. These changes could significantly reshape Australia’s property market.
Own your debt before it owns you
Here’s the hard truth: If you’re not in control of your debt, it’s controlling YOU.
Debt doesn’t just sit quietly in the background. It piles up, creeps into your financial freedom, and slowly starts calling the shots. It’s time to flip the script.
Find out how taking control of your debt can restore your financial freedom and bring peace of mind.
Rental growth slows as affordability is stretched
Rental growth slowed in 2024, despite the national median rent rising 4.8% for the year. Affordability pressures led renters to form larger households, easing demand. Meanwhile, increased investor activity added supply, lifting vacancy rates slightly to 1.9%. Still, with rents rising and vacancies low, many investors remain in a strong position.
Is the property downturn already over?
Australia’s property market rebounded swiftly in early 2025, reversing December’s brief price decline. Growing expectations of interest rate cuts have boosted confidence, while constrained housing supply continues to drive long-term price growth. With construction delays and undersupply persisting, the market’s dynamics are shifting toward sustained appreciation, rather than traditional boom-and-bust cycles.
Rates are on the move.
Are you getting the best deal on your mortgage?
The Reserve Bank of Australia’s recent cash rate cut presents an opportunity for homeowners to reassess their mortgage. With rates heading downward, it’s the perfect time to refinance, consolidate debt, or increase repayments to pay off your loan sooner. Take control of your financial future and explore your options now.
How to buy a property when you’re self-employed
Securing a home loan when you’re self-employed can be challenging, as lenders often view your income as less predictable and your financial position more complex. Strengthening your finances with stability and transparency can improve your chances. This article shares practical tips to help you secure better loan options, lower rates, and more lender interest.
The pros and cons of paying for LMI
(lenders mortgage insurance)
Lenders mortgage insurance (LMI) often gets a bad rap, but it can open doors for borrowers with smaller deposits. While LMI adds costs, it enables buyers to enter the property market sooner, potentially avoiding years of savings and rising property prices. Understanding LMI’s role is key to making informed decisions.
How to prepare for buying an investment property
Thinking about buying an investment property in 2025? The key to success starts with making yourself as creditworthy as possible. From increasing savings to understanding loan options and deposit requirements, there’s a lot to consider. Here’s how to set yourself up for a strong start.
2025 Money Moves:
Tips for Homeowners, Buyers, and Business Owners
The new year presents an ideal opportunity to reassess your finances. Whether you’re planning to buy property, managing a home loan, or running a business, there are key actions you can take to improve your financial situation. From enhancing your credit score to exploring refinancing options, small changes can make a big impact.
How the property market looks as we head into 2025
Australia’s property market is shifting, with a clear divide between strong and weak performers. While Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide see robust growth, Sydney, Melbourne, Canberra, and Hobart face slower gains. As interest rate cuts loom in 2025, understanding regional trends will be essential for buyers and investors alike.