Top Mistakes to Avoid When Refinancing Your Home Loan

By Deltos Finance on August 29, 2023
refinancing-loans-tips-min

Say you’re on the brink of refinancing your home loan. The potential benefits are alluring — lower interest rates, better terms and a chance to tap into your property’s equity. But amidst the potential benefits, there lie the pitfalls, ready to entrap the uninformed. Whether you’re a seasoned homeowner seeking better terms or a first-time refinancer, understanding the nuances of refinancing is paramount. Today, we’ll share the top refinancing mistakes to avoid so you can get the most out of your new home loan. Plus, we’ll give insights on how Deltos Finance can help you steer clear of such pitfalls.

Neglecting the Research Phase

Just as you wouldn’t invest blindly in a venture, diving headfirst into refinancing without proper research can lead to missed opportunities. The refinancing landscape is rich and diverse, with multiple options tailored to varying needs. 

When you rush or neglect the research phase, you might overlook competitive interest rates, favourable terms or better deals. But don’t fret. Deltos Finance’s philosophy of careful financial consultation underscores this step. We’ll meticulously evaluate loan options to ensure they align with your unique financial journey.

Ignoring Your Credit Score

Your credit score is the gateway to favourable interest rates and terms. No wonder ignoring it has become one of the top refinancing mistakes many people make. 

Monitoring your credit score is a crucial preliminary step when refinancing your home loan. A poor credit score might limit your refinancing options or lead to higher rates. Deltos Finance’s commitment to education and guidance stands tall here, echoing the importance of credit awareness and the measures you can take to improve it before making any refinancing decisions.

Overlooking Closing Costs

The promise of lower interest rates can be truly persuasive, but it’s crucial to remember that refinancing may come with more expenses than expected. Just like when you initially purchased your property, refinancing involves additional expenses. These costs can include break fees, application fees, legal fees and other administrative charges. When refinancing, you may face fees for closing one mortgage, plus additional fees for implementing your new mortgage. It’s important to ensure the cost savings inherent in the refinance outweigh the costs of refinancing. Overlooking these expenses can disrupt your carefully laid budget calculations. 

Deltos Finance’s informative approach ensures you’re well aware of all potential costs, empowering you to make decisions with accurate financial planning in mind. We also ensure refinancing is going to put you in a better financial position. With our guidance, you can avoid one of the pitfalls of refinancing your mortgage.

Fixating on Interest Rates Alone

Yes, interest rates are undoubtedly vital, but fixating solely on them can be a tunnel vision approach. Other critical factors, such as loan terms, fees, flexibility and features need equal attention. So you should weigh in on all the factors, including the pros and cons of refinancing a home loan, before deciding to proceed. 

While interest rates are an important aspect to take note of, they’re certainly not the only aspect nor should they be the deciding factor. For example, the home loan on the market with the lowest mortgage rate might come with high monthly fees that could end up costing you more overall than if you’d chosen a loan with a higher interest rate. 

Unsure how to deal with all the critical factors? Deltos Finance’s holistic approach ensures you consider a comprehensive set of factors when evaluating refinancing options. An adept assessment of these things can lead to a more informed and well-rounded decision.

Disregarding Future Plans

Refinancing isn’t just a present decision; it’s a stride toward your financial future. Ignoring future plans might mean you get locked into a new home loan structure that doesn’t align with your long-term goals. Be sure to factor in upcoming life changes, career prospects and potential investments. You can count on Deltos Finance’s local mortgage brokers to guide you to think beyond the immediate, helping you choose a refinancing option that matches your evolving financial roadmap.

refinancing mistakes

Rushing Through Documentation

The paperwork involved in refinancing can be intricate. Rushing through this step due to impatience or haste can result in missed details or even errors with far-reaching consequences. Deltos Finance’s commitment to ensuring seamless loan processes echoes strongly in this area. Engage with our Hobart mortgage brokers, and you can count on a meticulous approach to documentation that reduces the risk of errors and ensures the refinancing experience remains as smooth as possible.

Getting Swayed by Cash-back Offers

Cash-back offers might seem like an attractive proposition, but it’s crucial not to let them cloud your judgement. These offers can sometimes come with higher interest rates or unfavourable terms, nullifying the perceived benefits. But fret not, as Deltos Finance is here to help you evaluate the overall value of such offers. With our expert guidance, your refinancing decision won’t be swayed solely by short-term gains.

Not Getting Expert Guidance

In a world brimming with information, not seeking help from an expert can be a major refinancing mistake. For instance, here at Deltos Finance, we have tons of blogs that may help answer some of your questions & concerns. Also, you can reach out to us for expert guidance and leverage our local real estate market knowledge. With one of the highest home loan approval rates across mortgage brokers in Australia, we’re equipped to point you in the right direction. 

Summing It Up

Refinancing your home loan isn’t just a financial decision; it’s a strategic manoeuvre. By sidestepping these common refinancing mistakes, you’re arming yourself with the wisdom to make choices that align seamlessly with your financial goals. And as you tread the path of refinancing, remember that in the heart of Hobart’s vibrant real estate market, Deltos Finance is here to empower you to make the right decisions.

Contact us today to get started. 

Enquire Now

Find Your Perfect Finance Solution

Let's discuss your finance needs. We’re here to help.

More posts from Deltos Finance

buying a second home

Is Buying a Second Home Right for You?

The idea of owning a second home can be incredibly appealing. It could be a holiday house or an investment property that can generate additional income. But is buying a second home the right decision for you? Let’s explore the key considerations and steps involved in purchasing a second property in Australia. Top Reasons for […]

A house in Australia can have equity over time.

How to Use Equity to Buy Another Property

As a homeowner, you’re sitting on a valuable asset that can do more than provide a roof over your head. Your property’s equity can be a powerful financial instrument to help you buy a second home or expand your real estate portfolio. So, whether you’re dreaming of a holiday home by the beach near Carlton […]

A woman ecstatic about receiving home loan approval documents.

What to Know About the Home Loan Approval Process

Understanding the home loan approval process and knowing what to do at each stage can make it less intimidating. Today we’ll guide you through the stages, including what to do before lodging your application, when to apply, important considerations, and the support and tools available to make the process smoother. Before You Apply: What You […]

cash out refinancing

Cash-Out Refinancing: Tapping into Home Equity

As a homeowner in Australia, you may have built up significant equity in your property over the years. But did you know you can tap into this equity to access cash for various financial needs? This is where cash-out refinancing comes into play. In this article, let’s explore what cash-out refinancing is, how it works, […]

stamp duty exemption

No More Stamp Duty: Tasmania’s Gift to New Homeowners

Imagine stepping into your first home without the burden of thousands of dollars in stamp duty. Sounds too good to be true? Well, for Tasmanian first-home buyers, this dream has now become a reality. The Tasmanian government has just delivered a game-changing gift that could save you up to $28,945 on your first home purchase. […]

shared equity scheme

The Australian Shared Equity Scheme Explained

These days, it’s not easy to break into the property market. That’s especially true for young and first-time homebuyers who encounter several obstacles, especially amidst rising inflation and interest rates. But don’t fret because there are ways to make homeownership more accessible and affordable. One of which is shared equity. The Australian shared equity scheme […]

rentvesting

Let’s Talk About Rentvesting in Australia

You might find the traditional path to homeownership challenging, especially with rising property prices in desirable areas. Plus, it usually takes an average Australian over five years to save for a home loan deposit for a median-priced residential property. Enter rentvesting—a strategic approach for getting a foot on the property ladder without compromising your lifestyle. […]

redraw vs offset

Redraw vs Offset: Which Should You Choose for Your Home Loan?

When taking out a home loan, you might focus too much on comparing rates and terms. We’re here to remind you to explore different home loan features before signing the dotted line. Two popular options that can help you save on interest and pay off your mortgage faster are redraw facilities & offset accounts. But […]

first home guarantee eligibility

Let’s Talk About the Expanded First Home Guarantee Eligibility

Have you heard of the First Home Guarantee scheme? Did you know its eligibility has expanded to include more aspiring homeowners who previously faced barriers to entry into the property market? Today, let’s talk about the expanded First Home Guarantee eligibility to help you know whether you can maximise this scheme.  A Refresher: What Is […]

first home guarantee scheme

The First-Home Buyers 5% Home Loan Deposit Scheme Explained

As a first-time home buyer in Australia, one of the biggest hurdles you’ll face is coming up with a substantial deposit. Traditionally, lenders have required a deposit of at least 20% of the property’s value, but what if you could secure your dream home with just a 5% deposit? That is possible through the First […]