Three Capes Finance Blog:
Expert Mortgage & Loan Advice
Simple Steps to Pay Off Your Mortgage Faster
Paying off your home loan ahead of schedule might seem ambitious, but with a few smart strategies, it’s entirely achievable and can save you tens of thousands in interest. For many Australians, their mortgage is the single biggest financial burden they have. Reducing it faster not only delivers peace of mind, but also gives you financial freedom sooner.
How can I improve my credit score?
A healthy credit score is essential for securing loans, mortgages, and even some jobs in Australia. Whether you're applying for a home loan or a credit card, lenders use your credit score to assess your financial reliability. Fortunately, improving your credit score is possible with the right approach and discipline. Here are some valuable tips and strategies to enhance your creditworthiness.
How to shop around for the best home loan rate
Securing a home loan is a significant financial commitment, and selecting the right one can save you thousands over the life of the loan. With numerous options available, it's essential to understand the key factors that influence your decision. This guide provides practical advice on how to compare home loan rates and features to ensure you secure the best deal.
2025 Guide to Property Investment in Tasmania
Whether you’re a seasoned investor or exploring your first investment property in Tasmania, this updated 2025 guide cuts through the noise, arming you with the latest figures and strategies tailored to help investors succeed in buying property in Tasmania.
Questions every buyer should ask at a property inspection
Purchasing a home is a significant financial commitment, and ensuring the property's condition is paramount. A thorough house inspection can uncover hidden issues that might not be evident during a casual viewing. Here's a detailed guide to help you navigate the inspection process.
Can I buy a house with no deposit?
Entering the property market can be daunting, especially for first-time buyers lacking a substantial deposit. Fortunately, various options are available in Australia to assist buyers in securing a home loan without a traditional deposit. These alternatives often involve leveraging a guarantor's support or utilising government-backed schemes.
Home loan rejection after pre-approval: Key reasons and how to avoid them
Securing pre-approval for a home loan is often seen as a green light to proceed with property hunting. However, it's important to understand that pre-approval is not a guarantee of final loan approval. There are several reasons why a lender might reject a home loan application even after pre-approval has been granted.
Can I apply for a home loan if I’m self-employed?
Securing a home loan as a self-employed individual in Australia is very possible but can present unique challenges compared to traditional salaried employees. Lenders often perceive self-employed borrowers as higher risk due to income variability and less predictable financial histories. However, with good preparation and a clear understanding of the application process, self-employed applicants can enhance their chances of approval.
Australia's Help to Buy Scheme: A pathway to homeownership
Australia's escalating housing affordability crisis has prompted the federal government to introduce the Help to Buy scheme, a shared equity initiative aimed at assisting first-time homebuyers. This program is designed to make homeownership more accessible by reducing the financial barriers typically associated with purchasing a property.
Refinancing 101: How to reduce debt and build equity faster
Managing personal finances can often feel overwhelming, especially when juggling multiple debts. However, refinancing and debt consolidation can be viable solutions to streamline repayments and potentially reduce interest costs. Additionally, leveraging the equity in your home can serve as a powerful tool for financial growth.
Expat Home Loans: A Guide for Australians Living Abroad
For Australian citizens living overseas, the prospect of purchasing property back home is an achievable goal, thanks to the availability of expat home loans. However, the process differs from that of residents, necessitating a clear understanding of the requirements and steps involved.
How to get into property investing using your existing equity and no cash
For many Australians, the dream of property investment begins with the equity built up in their own home. Equity - the difference between your property's market value and the outstanding mortgage - is a valuable asset that can be leveraged to acquire investment properties, potentially accelerating your wealth-building journey.
Are You an Australian Expat Looking to Purchase Your Dream Home or Investment?
Navigating the Australian property market as an expatriate can feel overwhelming, especially when lender policies differ so significantly. From acceptable currencies to documentation requirements, securing a mortgage as an expat requires careful planning and expert guidance.
Everything You Need to Know About Refinancing Your Mortgage
Refinancing your mortgage can be a game-changer, offering opportunities to save money, access equity, or restructure your loan to better fit your needs. By replacing your current home loan with a new one, you could secure lower interest rates, reduce monthly repayments, or consolidate high-interest debts into a single, manageable loan.
For instance, refinancing a $500,000 mortgage from 6.5% to 6% could save you $165 per month—adding up to nearly $50,000 over 25 years. It’s also a practical way to unlock equity for renovations or investments.
However, refinancing comes with costs like application fees, valuation fees, and potential break fees for fixed-rate loans. Consulting a mortgage broker can help you navigate these challenges and find the right loan for your goals.
Work with experts who aim to be the best mortgage broker in Hobart and beyond—ensuring your refinancing decision is informed and beneficial.
How is Stamp Duty Calculated in Tasmania?
Stamp duty in Tasmania is calculated as a percentage of the property’s purchase price. The amount you pay depends on the property’s value. Read on for a breakdown of how stamp duty is calculated.
Security Guarantee Loans: Enhancing Home Ownership with Guarantor Support
Security guarantee loans offer a practical pathway to home ownership by allowing a family member or related party to provide additional property equity as security for a loan. This approach can help borrowers secure a larger loan amount, avoid costly Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI), and potentially access better lending terms.
How is Stamp Duty Calculated in New South Wales?
As with other states, stamp duty in NSW is calculated as a percentage of the property’s purchase price. The amount you pay depends on the property’s value.
Bridging Finance Simplified: Everything You Need to Know
Bridging finance is a solution tailored for Australians navigating the often challenging process of buying and selling properties. Whether you're downsizing, upsizing, or dealing with specific financial situations like inheritance or separation, bridging loans can offer the flexibility to make transitions smoother.
At Three Capes Finance, we specialise in helping clients make sense of bridging finance, ensuring every step is clear, tailored to your needs, and aligned with your financial goals.
Property Investment Loans
Whether you’re starting your property investment journey or expanding your portfolio, having the right loan structure is essential for maximising returns.
Is It Time To Upsize?
Is it time for your family to upsize?
Use our guide to arm yourself with the right information and plan.