
Frequently asked questions
Questions are part of the process.
From home loans and refinancing to investment lending and applications, here are some common questions customers ask us.
Every customer's circumstances are different, so the answers below are general information only. Lending options, requirements, rates, fees and approval outcomes depend on the relevant lender and individual circumstances.
General
What does a mortgage broker do?+
A mortgage broker helps customers understand their lending options, compare relevant loan products and navigate the application process. The available options depend on your circumstances and the lenders accessible through the broker.
Why should I speak with a mortgage broker?+
A broker can help you understand different lending options and the requirements that may apply to your situation. They can also help guide you through the application process and communicate with the relevant lender.
Do I need to know which loan I want before contacting you?+
No. A conversation can be the starting point. You can tell us about your goals and circumstances, and we can help you understand the types of lending options that may be relevant.
Do you help customers outside NSW?+
Yes. SK Finance and Home Loans is based in Mount Hutton, NSW and provides services Australia-wide.
Home Loans
How much can I borrow?+
The amount you may be able to borrow depends on factors such as your income, expenses, existing commitments, deposit or equity, employment circumstances, property and the lender's assessment criteria. There is no single borrowing amount that applies to everyone.
How much deposit do I need to buy a home?+
The deposit requirement can vary depending on the lender, property, loan structure and your circumstances. Other costs may also need to be considered when planning your purchase.
Can first home buyers get help with their loan?+
Yes. We work with first home buyers and can help you understand the finance process, potential lending options and information that may be required for an application.
Can you help if I have already found a property?+
Yes. If you have already found a property, we can discuss your circumstances and the finance requirements associated with the purchase.
Refinancing
What is refinancing?+
Refinancing generally involves replacing an existing loan with another loan, which may be with the same lender or a different lender. The reasons for refinancing can vary depending on the customer's circumstances and objectives.
Why might someone refinance their home loan?+
Customers may consider refinancing for different reasons, such as reviewing their current loan, exploring different loan features, changing their loan structure or considering their current interest rate and costs.
Can I refinance if I have more than one loan?+
It may be possible depending on your circumstances, the loans involved and lender requirements. We can discuss your existing commitments and help you understand what options may be available.
Investment & Construction
Do you help with investment property loans?+
Yes. We help customers explore lending options for investment property purchases. The appropriate loan structure and available options depend on your circumstances and lender assessment.
Can you help with construction loans?+
Yes. We can help customers explore construction finance and understand the lending process. Construction lending can involve additional requirements relating to the building contract, progress payments, property and lender criteria.
Do you offer SMSF property lending?+
We help customers explore SMSF property lending options where applicable. SMSF borrowing involves specific legal, regulatory, tax and financial considerations, so customers should obtain appropriate professional advice before making decisions.
Self-Employed & Complex Situations
Can self-employed people apply for a home loan?+
Yes. Self-employed customers can apply for home loans, although lenders may assess income and supporting documentation differently depending on the circumstances and the lender's requirements.
What documents might a self-employed applicant need?+
Depending on the lender and circumstances, documents may include business financial information, tax returns, notices of assessment, business activity statements, bank statements and other supporting information.
Can you help if my situation is not straightforward?+
We can discuss your circumstances and help you understand whether there may be lending options worth exploring. Every application remains subject to the relevant lender's assessment criteria.
Application & Approval
What documents will I need?+
The documents required depend on your circumstances and the lender. Common examples can include identification, income evidence, bank statements, details of existing liabilities and information about the property or loan purpose.
How long does a home loan application take?+
Processing times vary depending on the lender, application complexity, supporting documentation and other circumstances. We can help you understand the stages involved and keep you informed as the application progresses.
Does speaking with a broker guarantee loan approval?+
No. A broker can help you explore lending options and prepare an application, but the relevant lender makes the final lending decision according to its own criteria, policies and conditions.
Can interest rates and fees change?+
Interest rates, fees, charges and loan features vary between products and lenders and can change over time. You should review the relevant loan documentation and lender information before making a decision.
Still unsure?
Your situation may not fit neatly into an FAQ.
That is completely fine. Tell us what you are trying to achieve and we can have a conversation about your circumstances and the next steps.
Book a ConsultationLooking for something specific?
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Browse our lending services to learn more about the areas we can help with and the types of information that may be relevant.
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The information provided on this page is general information only and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Lending is subject to lender assessment, eligibility criteria, terms and conditions. You should consider whether the information is appropriate for your circumstances and obtain professional advice where appropriate.
