Refinancing solutions

Refinancing done properly is a strategy, not a rate chase

Switching lenders for a slightly lower rate can be worthwhile, but it’s rarely the whole story. I look at the true cost, the structure and where you’re headed next, not just this month’s advertised rate.

Prefer to talk first? Call Durand direct on 0450 275 656

Melbourne homeowner reviewing refinancing options with a mortgage broker at a laptop

Refinancing that improved his rate and funded his renovation

Situation: His bank refused a rate review.

Result: $166 a month saved and $70,000 released for renovations.

Julian earns about $175,000 a year as the Victorian sales rep for one of Australia’s largest commercial heating and air conditioning providers. He had no credit cards, no personal loans and a clean history, yet when he asked his lender for a rate review, they told him no further discount was available.

He wanted to refinance his $785,000 home loan and release $70,000 to renovate at his own pace. A borrower like Julian is attractive to the right lender, so I approached several and negotiated on his behalf.

His repayment dropped from $4,922 to $4,756 a month, a saving of $166 a month or $1,992 a year. The extra $70,000 added just $254 a month.

I also moved Julian to a lender with multiple offset accounts, so his renovation budget sits apart from everyday spending while still cutting the interest on his loan.

The result was a lower rate, funding for the renovation he’d been planning, and a loan structure that actually matched how Julian runs his finances day to day.

Sound like your situation? Tell me a bit about your loan and I’ll let you know if a refinance is worth it.

Refinancing is more than switching lenders

A refinance can lower your rate, unlock better features, consolidate debt, or free up equity for your next goal. But it can also come with exit fees, new establishment costs, and a reset loan term that quietly adds years back onto your mortgage if it isn’t structured with care. The right refinance is the one that moves you closer to your actual goals, not just to a smaller number on your next statement.

Melbourne mortgage broker comparing home loan refinancing options on a laptop with a client

It suits you if you are

Why clients choose me for refinancing

I don’t just chase the lowest number, I look for the detail in your numbers that determines whether a refinance genuinely leaves you better off.

How I can help

A lower rate that costs you flexibility later isn’t a win. Every refinance I arrange starts with what you’re paying now, what switching would really cost, and how your loan needs to work for the years ahead.

True cost comparison

Comparing exit costs, fees and rate honestly, not just the number in the advertisement.

 

Structuring for flexibility

Offset, redraw and split options set up for where you are headed next.

Timing around fixed rate expiry

Avoiding the trap of rolling onto your lender’s default variable rate.

Full market comparison

Checked across 70+ lenders so you know whether your current lender is still competitive.

How refinancing with me works

Refinancing can feel like a hassle. The process working with me shouldn’t be.

01
Review
I look at your current loan, rate, fees and features.
02
Compare
I work out the true cost of switching across 70+ lenders.
03
Switch
I manage the move so there’s no gap in your offset.

Why professionals work with me

You’ll deal with me from the first review to settlement, and I’ll check in when it’s worth looking again.

23+

Years in financial services

70+

Lenders on panel

5★

Google rating

1:1

End-to-end service, no handoffs

Refinancing FAQs

How do I know if refinancing is worth it?

It depends on the gap between your current rate and what’s available, how long you plan to stay in the loan, and what fees apply on both sides. I’ll run the numbers with you so you can see the real, after-cost benefit before deciding.

What costs are involved in refinancing?

Common costs include discharge fees from your current lender, application or valuation fees with the new lender, and government registration fees. Some of these can be waived or covered by cashback offers, which I’ll factor into the comparison.

Can I refinance if I am self-employed?

Yes. Self-employed income is assessed differently, usually against tax returns or business financials, but it’s absolutely possible with the right lender and the right presentation of your numbers.

Should I refinance with my current lender or switch?

Sometimes your current lender will match a competitor’s offer to keep you, which can save you the hassle of switching. Other times a genuine switch is the better outcome. I’ll compare both paths honestly rather than assuming either is best.

Ready to see if refinancing is worth it?

Tell me about your current loan and goals and I’ll come back with an honest, numbers-based comparison.

Prefer to talk now? Call 0450 275 656 or email durand@willowandreedprivate.com.au

Related reading

Want to go deeper before you get in touch? Start here.

What to consider when refinancing?

A closer look at the factors that matter beyond the headline rate.

Offset vs redraw

Understanding which loan feature actually suits how you manage money.

Explore more lending options

Refinancing often opens the door to other strategies. Here’s where else to look.

Equity release

Access the equity you’ve built for your next investment or project.

Debt recycling strategy

Turn your refinanced loan into a tool for building long-term wealth.

Debt consolidation

Combine scattered debts into one structured, lower-interest facility.