How to Get a Low Interest Rate

14 Mar How to Get a Low Interest Rate

Getting a low interest rate is possible if you go about it in the right way.

A lower interest rate can potentially reduce the amount you pay on your mortgage repayments and may results in getting your loan paid off faster. A good credit standing doesn’t usually guarantee you of a low interest rate as you need to shop around to find competitive rates. Consulting a finance broker to help you with this is always a good way to go. Banks and lenders have their varying measures in assessing the risk a borrower poses. Knowing what you can do to qualify for a low interest rate is a helpful way to save yourself from potentially paying too much.

Here are some tips to help you land a low interest rate for your home loan:

Check your credit report.

This particular tip is something all lenders will look at. Ideally, your credit report should be free of bankruptcy and/or other serious delinquencies. Dispute any information on your credit report that you deem inaccurate. To request a copy of your credit report, visit Equifax website (formerly Veda). However, you have also to take note that multiple and consecutive inquiries on your credit report may hurt your home loan application. If you have too many inquiries on your credit report, a lender may think that you are having trouble obtaining credit making you a high lending risk. In that case, the lender could charge you a higher interest rate.

Research current home loan interest rates.

You know what they say, knowledge is power. The more you know, the more ways you can think in landing that low interest rate. Check the interest rates offered by various lenders and non-lenders.

This will give you an idea on whether you’re paying too much in terms of interest, and can give you a good bit of bargaining power if you show that you know what you’re doing. Make sure you look for loan rates that are at or below the market average. On the other hand, if you wish to avoid this hassle, seeking the help of a finance broker can give you the same advantage.

Ask and you shall receive.

When all else fails, consult a finance professional. But while you’re at it, contact your current lender. There are lenders who tend to offer their new customers discounted rates and special deals that existing customers don’t get. The most effective approach you can do is to prove your loyalty to them. Maximise the fact that you’re paying your repayments on time. You have nothing to lose and much to gain by enquiring about a lower interest rate. Call your lender stating that you have found a better offer from a competitor (even if you haven’t). Negotiating for an interest rate that’s just 0.25% lower than your existing rate can potentially save you a significant amount of money over the duration of the loan.

Disclaimer:

Credit Representative (486927) is authorised under Australian Credit Licence 389328.

 This article provides general information only and has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. We recommend that you consider whether it is appropriate for your circumstances and your full financial situation will need to be reviewed prior to acceptance of any offer or product. It does not constitute legal, tax or financial advice and you should always seek professional advice in relation to your individual circumstances. Subject to lenders terms and conditions, fees and charges and eligibility criteria apply.