Key Finance

Your local mortgage broker for Melbourne’s East & South-East
Key Finance—Melbourne mortgage broker since 2002. Plain-English advice, 30+ lenders, BID-aligned, proactive support from first chat to settlement.
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First Home Buyers FAQs

General Information About Our Services
Can I borrow to renovate?
Basic home improvements are different from adding another room. Both are possible but require a different strategy
Can I act as an owner‑builder?
Specialist policy applies and LVRs are often lower. We’ll outline viable lenders and alternatives.
Do I need a bigger deposit for construction?
Often similar to standard lending, but lenders look closely at contingencies, builder credentials and valuations.
Fixed‑price vs cost‑plus contracts — which do lenders prefer?
Most lenders prefer fixed‑price contracts to reduce cost‑overrun risk. We’ll match lender policy to your build type.
How do progress‑payment (construction) loans work?
Funds are drawn in stages (slab, frame, lock‑up, etc.). You usually pay interest only on funds drawn during the build.
Do lenders still offer cashbacks?
These change frequently. We focus first on long‑term value (rate, policy, fees, features) and only then consider any incentives on offer.
Can I access equity for renovations, a car or other needs?
Subject to policy and valuation, yes. We’ll confirm acceptable purposes and any documentation required.
Will consolidating debts into my home loan cost more interest?
You’ll likely lower monthly repayments, but the longer term can increase total interest without a plan. We’ll model options and set a pay‑down strategy.
What costs are involved in switching?
Possible discharge, settlement and government fees, plus any break costs if you’re fixed. We’ll tally the numbers before you decide.
When does refinancing make sense?
When pricing, product features or structure no longer suit your goals — or when your fixed term expires. We benchmark your loan against current market options.
Can I borrow if my latest year dipped?
Some lenders average 2 years; others use the lower/higher year with commentary. Others require just 1 year of financials. We package your story clearly for credit.
How long do I need to have been in business?
Many lenders want 2 years; some consider new business with strong evidence. Policy varies.
My taxable income is low due to deductions — can I still borrow?
Potentially. Lenders assess verified income, but some allow add‑backs or alternate verification. We’ll find the best fit.
What if haven’t done my tax returns?
Alternative‑doc pathways exist. Some of my 30+ lenders specialize in what the ‘majors’ don’t touch.
What income evidence do I need?
Commonly: last 2 years’ tax returns/NOAs and sometimes BAS or financials.

General FAQs

General Information About Our Services
Can I borrow to renovate?
Basic home improvements are different from adding another room. Both are possible but require a different strategy
Can I act as an owner‑builder?
Specialist policy applies and LVRs are often lower. We’ll outline viable lenders and alternatives.
Do I need a bigger deposit for construction?
Often similar to standard lending, but lenders look closely at contingencies, builder credentials and valuations.
Fixed‑price vs cost‑plus contracts — which do lenders prefer?
Most lenders prefer fixed‑price contracts to reduce cost‑overrun risk. We’ll match lender policy to your build type.
How do progress‑payment (construction) loans work?
Funds are drawn in stages (slab, frame, lock‑up, etc.). You usually pay interest only on funds drawn during the build.
Do lenders still offer cashbacks?
These change frequently. We focus first on long‑term value (rate, policy, fees, features) and only then consider any incentives on offer.
Can I access equity for renovations, a car or other needs?
Subject to policy and valuation, yes. We’ll confirm acceptable purposes and any documentation required.
Will consolidating debts into my home loan cost more interest?
You’ll likely lower monthly repayments, but the longer term can increase total interest without a plan. We’ll model options and set a pay‑down strategy.
What costs are involved in switching?
Possible discharge, settlement and government fees, plus any break costs if you’re fixed. We’ll tally the numbers before you decide.
When does refinancing make sense?
When pricing, product features or structure no longer suit your goals — or when your fixed term expires. We benchmark your loan against current market options.
Can I borrow if my latest year dipped?
Some lenders average 2 years; others use the lower/higher year with commentary. Others require just 1 year of financials. We package your story clearly for credit.
How long do I need to have been in business?
Many lenders want 2 years; some consider new business with strong evidence. Policy varies.
My taxable income is low due to deductions — can I still borrow?
Potentially. Lenders assess verified income, but some allow add‑backs or alternate verification. We’ll find the best fit.
What if haven’t done my tax returns?
Alternative‑doc pathways exist. Some of my 30+ lenders specialize in what the ‘majors’ don’t touch.
What income evidence do I need?
Commonly: last 2 years’ tax returns/NOAs and sometimes BAS or financials.
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