Getting your deposit together
Whether buying or building, getting the funds together for the deposit is a key part of the home-buying process. So it’s important to know what you need and how to get there without any unnecessary stress.
Typically, banks and other lenders require you to provide 20% of the property price’s cost as a deposit in order to give you a home loan. Based on your profile, the condition of the market and other criteria, some lenders may be willing to lend you money even with a 5% deposit. However, this may attract extra costs such as lender’s mortgage insurance. Your bank or trusted mortgage broker will be able to help you determine your deposit target.
Did you know that having a larger deposit may help you negotiate a lower interest rate? Don Crellin, Managing Director of Resolve Finance, says that a lot more lenders today will adjust the interest rate they charge based on how much deposit you have. “If you’ve got a deposit of 20 per cent or more, you can generally get a more favourable deal,” he says.
But you may still be able to negotiate a competitive rate direct from a lender, even if your savings are close to the minimum deposit for a home loan. Your mortgage broker will be able to provide more detailed information.
“Not all lenders’ assessment processes are the same, and they change quite regularly, so a mortgage broker can help you navigate through this,” says Don Crellin.
As part of the process of working out how much deposit you need, make sure you work with your mortgage broker to factor in the additional costs that come with buying or building a house. These can include:
Then with a full picture of all costs involved, you will be able to set a savings target – and start budgeting.
Ever dreamt of the feeling you’ll get when you pull into the driveway of your ideal home? Well, Stockland can help you make that a reality, with a range of home options to choose from.
