Learn About the Best Loans for Investment Properties

Maximise Your Investment Potential: Discover the Top Loans for Profitable Properties

Investing in property is a popular wealth-building strategy amongst Australians. But, of course, it requires a lot of capital. Most Australian investors utilise finance when investing in property. But, with so many options available, it can be challenging to determine which mortgage loan is the best fit for your investment property. Don’t fret, as we are here to guide you through some of the best loans for investment properties in Australia.

Conventional Mortgage Loans

First on the list are conventional mortgage loans. These loans are provided by financial institutions like banks and credit unions. Usually, lenders ask for a down payment of at least 20 percent of the property value. Some lenders may offer loans with a lower deposit, but this will depend on their individual lending criteria.

The advantage of a conventional mortgage loan is it typically offers lower interest rates than other types of loans or non-conventional lenders. Additionally, mortgages may be used to finance a wide variety of investment properties, including single-family homes, condos and multi-unit buildings.

Interest-Only Loans

Next up, we have interest-only loans. As the name suggests, with this loan, you only pay the interest on the loan for a specified period, usually five to ten years. This can keep your initial monthly payments low, allowing you to have more cash flow to invest in other properties or expenses.

The downside of interest-only loans is that you’ll start repaying the principal after the interest-only period ends. So you have to brace yourself for higher monthly payments and an overall higher loan cost after the interest-only period. Interest-only loans may be the right option for investors looking to maximise their cash flow or reduce their tax liability through negative gearing.

Line-of-Credit Loans

Moving on, we have line-of-credit loans. This type of loan is flexible and can be used to purchase an investment property or renovate an existing one. With a line of credit, you can access funds, as needed, up to a predetermined limit. This may be the right choice for investors who need to renovate or repair an investment property and are looking for flexibility in the finance amount and timing of drawdowns.

The downside of line-of-credit loans is they typically come with higher interest rates than other mortgage loans. Also, because they are revolving credit, you may be tempted to use the funds for non-investment purposes, which can lead to financial trouble. How do you know if it’s ideal for you? Often, a line of credit is recommended for investors who need flexibility and want to keep their options open.

SMSF Loans

SMSF loans, or Self-Managed Super Fund loans, are used by investors looking to purchase investment properties in Australia within their SMSF. These loans are specifically designed for individuals who want to invest their superannuation funds into property.

It’s vital to note that SMSF loans come with some risks and restrictions. For example, you can only use an SMSF loan to purchase a property intended solely for investment purposes and not for personal use. Additionally, there are strict rules on managing and investing your super. Failure to comply with these rules can result in severe penalties.

Overall, SMSF loans can be a viable option for investment properties, but they’re not suitable for everyone. It’s essential to weigh the pros and cons carefully and seek expert advice before investing your superannuation funds in a property.

Low-Doc Loans

Finally, we have low-doc loans, a practical option for self-employed investors who may not have traditional income documentation, such as tax returns or bank statements. With a low-doc loan, you may be able to provide an accountant’s letter or alternative documentation to demonstrate your ability to repay the loan.

But be mindful of low-doc investment loan rates and fees because they are usually higher than other types of loans. Additionally, because they are riskier for lenders, you may need to provide a higher down payment or have a higher credit score to qualify for a low-doc loan. Still, low-doc loans are suitable for self-employed investors without enough documents to show lenders their ability to repay.

Additional Tips 

Still can’t decide which loan to get for your new investment venture? Here are some additional tips to help you choose the best loan for your investment property:

• Research different lenders and compare their interest rates, fees and loan terms to find the best deal.
• Consider the type of property you want to invest in and the loan options available for that property.
• Think about your long-term investment goals and select a loan that aligns with those goals.
• Be realistic about your financial situation and only take out a loan you can comfortably repay.
• Don’t be afraid to ask questions and negotiate with lenders to get the best possible terms for your loan.

Final Thoughts

Investing in property may be a profitable venture for many Australians, but it requires careful planning and financial management. Choosing the right loan for your investment property is an essential part of that process. By considering your options and working with a reputable lender, you can find the loan that best suits your needs and helps maximise your investment returns.

Remember, the key to success in property investment is to be patient, realistic and diligent in your approach. With the right loan and a solid investment strategy, you increase your chances of building a profitable portfolio of investment properties. Get in touch with Deltos Finance today to learn more.