Equity is the difference between your property's current market value and the amount you still owe on your mortgage. For example, if your home is worth $1,000,000 and your mortgage is $400,000, you have $600,000 in equity.

You can often borrow against this equity to fund the deposit for an investment property. Lenders will typically require you to leave at least 20% equity in your own home. In the example above, you would need to keep $200,000 (20% of $1M) in your home, which leaves you with $400,000 of usable equity to put towards your investment purchase.

Use our free equity calculator to find out how much equity you may have in your property.

This depends entirely on your personal financial strategy.

Rental Yield is the annual rental income you receive as a percentage of the property's value. A high rental yield provides strong cash flow, which can help cover mortgage repayments and other expenses. This is often a focus for investors seeking passive income.

Capital Growth is the increase in the property's value over time. This is a long-term strategy focused on building wealth through asset appreciation.

Ideally, a great investment property offers a balance of both. We can help you clarify your goals and identify properties that align with your strategy.

Yes, investment loans have stricter criteria than owner-occupied loans, including lower LVR limits (meaning a larger deposit is needed). We specialise in navigating these differences to find the right loan product for your investment goals.

An interest-only loan can improve your cash flow by lowering repayments, freeing up funds for other investments. However, you won't be paying down the principal loan amount. We can help you decide if this strategy aligns with your long-term financial plan.

Rental income is taxable, but you can claim expenses like mortgage interest (subject to current rules), insurance, and maintenance. Tax laws for property are complex and change often, so we always recommend consulting with a property accountant.

This depends on your goals for asset protection and your tax situation. Buying in your own name is simpler, while a trust or company can offer better protection. It's a crucial decision to discuss with your accountant and solicitor.

Beyond the mortgage, remember to budget for council rates, insurance, property management fees, and a buffer for maintenance and potential vacancy periods. A well-planned budget is key to a successful, stress-free investment.