Buying a Property for Dummies (AU Edition)

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The first home buyer guide that doesn't overcomplicate it.

Buying a Property for Dummies (AU Edition)

$17.35 ★★★★ 4.4 (10 reviews)
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Property & Home Loans

Extra Repayment Calculator

See how much interest you save and how many years you cut off your mortgage by making extra monthly repayments.

$

Your current outstanding loan balance

% p.a.
years
$

The additional amount you want to pay each month on top of the minimum

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Buying a Property for Dummies (AU Edition)

Buying a Property for Dummies (AU Edition)

First home buyers who research before they apply get better outcomes.

$17.35 ★★★★ 4.4 (10 reviews)
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Before you start the application process, the Australia's Home Buying Guide ($25.20, 4.4★ from 16 reviews) is worth a look. Affiliate link

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

How much does $500 extra per month save on a $500,000 mortgage?

On a $500,000 loan at 6.5% over 30 years, paying an extra $500 per month saves approximately $170,000 in interest and cuts about 9 years off the loan term.

Is there a limit to how much extra I can repay?

On variable rate loans, you can typically make unlimited extra repayments. On fixed rate loans, most lenders cap extra repayments at $10,000–$20,000 per year during the fixed period. Check your loan terms.

What is the effect of making extra repayments early in the loan?

Extra repayments are most powerful early in a loan when the outstanding balance (and therefore the interest component) is highest. Every dollar of extra principal reduction saves interest compounding over the remaining years.

Can I use an offset account instead of extra repayments?

Yes. An offset account achieves the same interest-saving effect — money in the offset reduces the balance on which interest is calculated. Some borrowers prefer offset accounts for flexibility (the money is accessible). Check whether your loan has a free offset account.

Australia's Home Buying Guide

Australia's Home Buying Guide

$25.20 ★★★★ 4.4 (16)
Check price →