Answers to the questions we hear most often, on everything from deposits and borrowing power to refinancing, self-employed lending and commercial finance. Still not sure? Call Sherif on 0402 294 859.
General questions
What does a mortgage broker actually do?
We compare home loans from more than 20 lenders, handle the paperwork, and manage your application from pre-approval through to settlement. As a licensed credit representative we are legally required to act in your best interests.
Does it cost me anything?
No. For standard residential lending you won’t pay us a fee. We are paid a commission by the lender you choose, and we disclose it to you before you proceed.
How many lenders do you compare?
More than 20, including the major banks, second-tier banks, specialist lenders and non-bank lenders, so your options are never limited to a single bank’s policy.
How much can I borrow?
It depends on your income, expenses and deposit, and every lender calculates it differently. Our borrowing power calculator gives you a starting estimate, and we confirm it properly across the panel.
How do I get started?
Call Sherif on 0402 294 859 or send an enquiry, and we will review your situation, compare lenders and tell you honestly what is achievable.
First home buyers
How much deposit do I really need as a first home buyer in Brisbane?
Many first home buyers get in with around 5% saved, and some pathways allow as little as 2%. We show you the deposit, LMI and scheme options side by side so you can see the trade-offs.
Can I use the First Home Owner Grant and a guarantee together?
Yes. The Queensland grant is separate from the national home guarantee schemes, so eligible buyers can often use both at once.
What government help is available for first home buyers in Queensland?
The $30,000 First Home Owner Grant on eligible new homes, a full transfer duty concession for eligible first home buyers, and shared-equity options such as Boost to Buy.
Refinancing
How do I know if refinancing my home loan is worth it?
We compare your current rate and fees against more than 20 lenders and only recommend switching if the numbers genuinely benefit you.
Will refinancing hurt my credit score?
A single, well-matched application has minimal impact. We match you to the right lender first rather than scattering applications.
What does refinancing actually cost?
Usually a discharge fee, a new application or valuation fee, and small government fees. We factor these into your break-even before you commit.
Self-employed borrowers
How many years of financials do I need for a self-employed home loan?
With two years of returns, many lenders treat you much like a PAYG borrower. Low-doc options exist if your financials are not yet up to date.
Can I get a home loan with only one year of trading?
Some lenders accept BAS statements or an accountant’s declaration. We know which ones, and what rate trade-off applies.
What income can be added back for self-employed borrowers?
Depreciation, one-off expenses, extra superannuation and interest on debts being refinanced can often be added back, which can lift your borrowing power significantly.
Property investors
Should I choose interest-only or principal and interest for an investment loan?
It depends on your cash flow and tax strategy. We model both against your plan rather than defaulting to one.
Can I use the equity in my home to buy an investment property?
Often yes. We calculate your usable equity and find lenders comfortable with your purpose and structure.
Do you help with trust or SMSF lending structures?
We work alongside your accountant to structure lending around your entity, and compare the lenders who accept it.
Commercial and equipment finance
What can I finance through commercial and equipment finance?
Equipment and machinery, motor vehicles and fleet, fit-outs and expansion, and working capital, across a range of specialist and mainstream lenders.
Do I need property as security for equipment finance?
Not always. Many equipment and vehicle facilities are secured by the asset itself rather than your home.
How quickly can equipment finance settle?
Straightforward equipment and vehicle finance can move quickly once we have your financials and a quote or invoice.
Still have a question?
Ask us anything. A no-obligation conversation with a real broker who will give you a straight answer.
Cyril Finance Group is a trading name of Cyril Marketing Pty Ltd as Trustee for the Keryakes Family Trust (ABN 63 890 064 995). Sherif Keryakes is Credit Representative 579481 of Finsure Finance and Insurance Pty Ltd (Australian Credit Licence 384704). This information is general only and does not consider your objectives, financial situation or needs.