Why Refinancing Numbers are Surging Across the Country?
Has rising interest rates got you feeling a bit vulnerable? It may be time to take some control back by refinancing or asking for a rate review. Why are we seeing refinancing numbers surge across the country?
In just a couple of months we have seen the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) increase the cash rate from a record low of 0.10% to 0.85% and it has not taken long for most lenders to pass those rate increases onto customers. Unfortunately, the RBA has warned us that more rate hikes are on the way.
There are ways you can make yourself feel more in control, including by doing what tens of thousands of mortgage holders around the country have done – refinancing or asking their current lender for a better rate.
Homeowners are Refinancing in Droves
According to PEXA’s largest refinancing insights, refinancing increased by more than 20% in May (from April) across each of Australia’s most populous states.
Here is a breakdown:
NSW: 10,823 refinances – May up 20.8% on April, and up 15.6% year on year.
VIC: 11,500 refinances – May up 26.7% on April, and up 23.3% year on year.
QLD: 6,699 refinances – May up 21.8% on April, and up 49.6% year on year.
WA: 3,244 refinances – May up 25% on April, and up 46.1% year on year.
Why the Big Increase in Refinancing?
Lenders now, more than ever, need to attract and retain borrowers.
Just because rates are going up, does not mean you can’t scope out a better deal, especially if you have a decent amount of equity and strong track record of meeting your mortgage repayments. If that sounds like you, then you are a good customer, and lenders want good customers.
The other big reason for the recent surge in refinancing is that smaller lenders are stealing more and more borrowers away from the major banks with super-competitive rates.
In fact, according to PEXA, in NSW, VIC, QLD and WA combined, the major banks and their subsidiaries had a net loss of more than 5,000 borrowers to non-major lenders in May.
Competition is fierce!
Why Work with a Broker Now?
The amount of loans being written by brokers continue to grow. Brokers are currently writing 70% of all new home loans in the country – which is the biggest market share ever. And as you know, brokers are loyal to you, not to any lender.
This means, that if we think you can get a better deal elsewhere, we will encourage and help you to do so, not hope that you will stay put on your current rate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are refinancing numbers surging across Australia?
The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has recently increased the cash rate, leading most lenders to pass on the rate hikes to customers. This has prompted many homeowners to seek better rates through refinancing.
What are the statistics on refinancing in different states?
According to PEXA's largest refinancing insights, refinancing increased by more than 20% in May across Australia's most populous states, including NSW, VIC, QLD, and WA.
Can I still get a better deal even if rates are rising?
Yes, especially if you have a good amount of equity and a strong track record of meeting your mortgage repayments. Lenders are keen to attract and retain good customers.
Are smaller lenders offering better rates?
Smaller lenders are increasingly attracting borrowers away from major banks with super-competitive rates. In May, major banks and their subsidiaries had a net loss of more than 5,000 borrowers to non-major lenders.
Why should I consider working with a broker?
Brokers are currently writing 70% of all new home loans in the country. They are loyal to you, not any lender, and can help you find a better deal or negotiate with your current lender.
What should I do if I don't want to refinance with another lender?
You can ask your current bank to review your rate and indicate that you are prepared to refinance if they don't offer a better deal.
And even if you do not want to refinance with another lender, there is always the option of asking your current bank to review your rate (and indicating that you have prepared to refinance if they don’t come to the table). If you would like to find out more about what options are available to you, get in touch with us today. We would love to help you feel like you have some agency in the period ahead.
Phone: 1300 855 022
Zippy Financial is an award-winning mortgage brokerage specialising in home loans, property investment, commercial lending, and vehicle & asset finance. Whether you are looking to buy your first home, refinance or build your property investment portfolio, the team at Zippy Financial can help find and secure the right loan for you and your business.
About the Author:
Louisa Sanghera is an award-winning mortgage broker and Director at Zippy Financial. Louisa founded Zippy Financial with the goal of helping clients grow their wealth through smart property and business financing. Louisa utilises her expert financial knowledge, vision for exceptional customer service and passion for property to help her clients achieve their lifestyle and financial goals. Louisa is an experienced speaker, financial commentator, mortgage broker industry representative and small business advocate.
Connect with Louisa on Linkedin.
Louisa Sanghera is a Credit Representative (437236) of Mortgage Specialists Pty Ltd (Australian Credit Licence No. 387025).
Disclaimer: This article contains information that is general in nature. It does not take into account the objectives, financial situation or needs of any particular person. You need to consider your financial situation and needs before making any decisions based on this information. This article is not to be used in place of professional advice, whether business, health or financial.
