When you are shopping for a loan it is vitally important to check out home loan rates from a variety of lenders. That’s because the interest rate is the main thing that will determine the cost of your loan in the long run.
How to compare
When comparing home loan rates, the most important number to look for is the comparison rate.
All lenders are required to display a comparison rate on their loans as a way to help consumers identify the true cost of the loan.
The comparison rate rolls in most of the fees and charges over the life of the loan into a single percentage figure.
This includes establishment fees, approval fees, and any upfront or ongoing fees.
A comparison rate is based upon the following data:
- the amount of the loan;
- the term of the loan;
- the repayment frequency;
- the interest rate; and
- the fees and charges connected with the loan.
Features
When comparing home loan rates between different lenders it is important that you are comparing apples with apples. Make sure that the loans have the same features.
Generally speaking, you will have to pay a slightly higher interest rate for extra features such as a redraw offset facility, or for a fixed rate loan. You also need to make sure that the lender quoting you on a loan has all the relevant information as it can affect your rate.
For instance, if you have a large amount of equity in the home, or a large deposit, you may get a cheaper rate because you represent a smaller risk.
Tools to Compare
Compare our home loan rates and features to find the best home loan that is right for you.
If you want to see how our home loan rates compare to other lenders and how much you can save check out our home loans comparison tool. This comparison uses data sourced from Canstar Research.