Your Trusted Mortgage Broker in Rockhampton

Looking for a reliable mortgage broker in Rockhampton? You’ve come to the right place. With over 20 years’ experience in Queensland home loans, Easy Money Loans is your trusted local mortgage specialist. Our expert brokers know the Rockhampton region inside out and are committed to finding you the best home loan solutions. Whether you’re a first-home buyer, a growing family, a regional investor or a self-employed earner, we provide friendly, personalised guidance every step of the way.

Rockhampton’s property market is thriving. In fact, recent data shows Rockhampton was “one of Queensland’s star performers” in 2024 – house prices jumped significantly and even outpaced Brisbane. The median house price is still very affordable (around $512,000 in late 2024), which means mortgage repayments here can be much lower than in capital cities. This affordability, combined with strong local rental demand (vacancy rates under 1%) and healthy yields (about 5.7% gross for houses), makes Rockhampton a smart choice for families and property investors alike.

As a trusted independent mortgage broker in Rockhampton, we offer a full range of lending services tailored to local needs. We speak your language – literally. As an Indian/Punjabi mortgage broker in Rockhampton, we proudly serve our multicultural community, helping clients from Rockhampton’s Indian and Punjabi families feel comfortable with the home loan process. Our local knowledge of the Rockhampton economy (from cattle and agriculture, to mining and education) and the region’s amenities means we can match you to the best loan for your situation. Best of all, our service costs you nothing up-front – we get paid by the lender, not by charging you fees.

We are proud of our independence and service. Working with Easy Money Loans means access to 40+ lenders across Australia (major banks, credit unions and niche lenders), so we compare dozens of home loan options to find the best interest rates and features for you. Whether you need a low-deposit first home loan, a refinance for a better rate, an investment loan, or even a car loan, we will tailor a solution. And because we have no allegiance to any one bank, we truly work in your best interest under the new ASIC conflict rule.

Our goal is simple: to make your mortgage experience in Rockhampton fast, easy and stress-free. Many of our clients are in busy careers (teachers, nurses, FIFO workers, small business owners) so we handle the paperwork and negotiations for you. From the initial consultation to settlement, we guide you through each step – arranging home loan pre-approval, preparing your application, liaising with lenders and conveyancers, and keeping you informed throughout. This personalised service is why Rockhampton locals trust us as their mortgage broker.

We know Rockhampton’s suburbs and council areas well. If you’re buying in Park Avenue, Norman Gardens, or even rural outskirts like Limestone Creek, we understand the local market dynamics and government incentives. For example, the Queensland Government now offers full stamp duty exemption on new homes under $750,000 for first-home buyers. We’ll help you tap into schemes like the First Home Guarantee or First Home Owner Grant (worth up to $30,000) when you qualify. By combining these grants with competitive loan options, we make it possible for first home buyers to own their dream home even with a small deposit.

With Easy Money Loans by your side, you can feel confident you’ve chosen one of the best mortgage brokers in Rockhampton. We’ve helped hundreds of locals – single professionals, growing families, regional investors and retirees – to secure home loans that fit their budgets and goals. Our blend of experience, local insight, and caring service makes us the mortgage broker Rockhampton residents recommend. Let us put our expertise to work for you.

Rockhampton’s Local Property Market and Lifestyle

Rockhampton offers an attractive mix of affordability and lifestyle that national buyers love. It’s known as the “Beef Capital of Australia” with a strong agricultural and resources-based economy. Yet housing here remains far more affordable than in capital cities. As of late 2024 the median house price was only about $512,000 – roughly half the price of a similar home in Brisbane or Sydney. This means even with recent interest rates, home loan repayments are very manageable for Rockhampton borrowers.

Important local factors supporting the property market include:

• Strong local economy: Rockhampton’s diversified economy (beef, agriculture, mining support, manufacturing, health and education) has kept jobs stable and incomes steady. Key employers (Rockhampton Base Hospital, CQUniversity, mines support, Shoalwater Bay military expansions) continue to drive housing demand.
• Population growth and migration: More people are moving to Rockhampton for lifestyle and affordability. The region’s population is growing, partly due to interstate migration. Many families and retirees from southern cities are relocating for the spacious rural lifestyle. This trend, coupled with historically low rental vacancies (around 0.7% vacancy), means more families are renting or buying here now than ever.
• High rental yields: Rockhampton investors enjoy high rental returns. The current average gross rental yield is about 5.7% for houses – well above most other Australian markets. With rents having risen (~6.3% in the last year) and few homes available to rent, renting out an investment property is very profitable in Rockhampton.
• Limited housing supply: New housing supply has lagged demand. The city’s housing stock is relatively tight (only ~1.6 months of sales inventory as of 2024). Few large new estates are being built to meet the influx of buyers, so existing homes get snapped up fast. This supply-demand gap pushes prices up steadily, benefiting sellers and investors.
• Lifestyle and amenities: Rockhampton offers a relaxed regional lifestyle with good amenities. Families enjoy local schools, parks and shopping centres (e.g. Stockland Rockhampton Mall), plus outdoor attractions like the Great Keppel Island ferry and nature parks. Its riverside setting and community events (titled the Beef Week festival) make it a welcoming place for families, retirees and professional couples alike.

All these factors mean Rockhampton’s local market is active and growing, which is great news for borrowers and investors. By working with an experienced mortgage broker in Rockhampton, you gain a partner who understands this local market inside out. We can advise you on suburbs to watch (like up-and-coming Norman Gardens or Park Avenue), where yields and growth are strong.

For example, we helped a young couple in Park Avenue (an affordable north-side suburb) secure their first home. They took advantage of a low-deposit loan plus stamp duty concessions. Similarly, we’ve guided investors buying duplexes in Frenchville and Rockyview on loans tailored for high-yield rental strategies. Real stories like these – family teachers, FIFO workers, local business owners – show how our mortgage solutions fit into everyday Rockhampton life.

In short, Rockhampton is booming but still affordable. Whether you’re buying your first home in a city suburb or an investment property in rural Capricorn, we have the market knowledge to get you the best deal. With us, you can feel confident about applying for a mortgage in Rockhampton – you’ll get sound advice on affordability, interest rates, local grants, and the ideal loan structure for your goals.

Why Choose Us as Your Mortgage Broker in Rockhampton

Choosing the right broker can save you time and money. Here’s what sets Easy Money Loans apart:

• Local Expertise: We live and work in Queensland, so we know Rockhampton’s suburbs, property trends and lenders well. We use this local insight to tailor solutions (e.g. matching suburban demand with the right loan structure).
• Independent and Trusted: As an independent mortgage broker, we’re not tied to any one bank. We thoroughly shop around for you, comparing hundreds of home loan products across major lenders and niche lenders. This gives you the best chance of securing a lower rate or more flexible loan than any single bank could offer.
• One-Stop Service: We’re genuine home loan experts Rockhampton, covering all home loan needs under one roof. First home buyers, upgraders, investors, those looking to refinance, or even borrowing for a car – we do it all. Instead of meeting with multiple bankers, we streamline the process.
• Culturally Inclusive: Our brokers are fluent in English and Punjabi/Hindi, serving Rockhampton’s diverse communities. As one of the best Indian mortgage brokers in Rockhampton, we understand the needs of Indian and Punjabi families settling here. We explain everything clearly and respectfully, and can communicate with you or your family in your language.
• 0% Broker Fees: Our mortgage advice to you is completely free – no hidden costs. In Australia, brokers are paid by the lenders, so the service doesn’t cost you anything. We simply help the lenders find you, in exchange for a commission from them (usually around 0.6% of the loan amount). This means you get expert guidance without worrying about paying an extra fee.
• Personalised Support: We pride ourselves on exceptional customer service. Your case is handled by a senior broker (with 20+ years’ experience), not a call centre. We take time to understand your unique situation (income, employment, future plans) and explain your options clearly. You’ll get prompt responses to your questions – after all, we’re your neighbours and local experts.
• Proven Track Record: Over the years we’ve helped hundreds of Queenslanders with their home loans. Our client stories speak for themselves – from first-home triumphs to savvy refinances and investment acquisitions. Check out our [About Us] page to learn more about our journey and values.
• Flexible Communication: We work around your schedule. We can meet you in Rockhampton, chat on the phone, or handle much of the process online. We’re also licensed to assist borrowers across Australia, so if you have ties to Brisbane or other cities, we can support you there as well (see our [Mortgage Broker Brisbane] page for details).

With Easy Money Loans as your mortgage broker, you get local Rockhampton service with broad lender access. We’ll keep your best interests front and center, helping you navigate the loan process from start to finish.

How Our Rockhampton Mortgage Service Works

We’ve simplified the home loan process into clear steps to make it easy for you:

1. Free Initial Consultation. We start by understanding your goals: Are you buying your first home, refinancing, investing, or something else? We discuss your budget, income, credit, and what you need in a loan (e.g. fixed vs. variable rate, interest-only vs principal-and-interest). This is entirely obligation-free. We also explain what documents you’ll need (proof of income, ID, etc.) so you know exactly how to prepare.
2. Home Loan Pre-Approval. To give you confidence when you house-hunt, we arrange a home loan pre-approval Rockhampton. This tells you how much you can borrow based on your finances and credit. Having pre-approval can make your offer stronger with sellers. We’ll submit your details to lenders and typically get a conditional approval quickly, so you know your borrowing limit before you start looking at houses.
3. Loan Selection. With your goals and pre-approval in hand, we compare loan products from a wide panel of lenders. We look at interest rates, fees, offset accounts, redraw facilities, loan terms and any special features (like extra repayments). Our experience means we spot the fine print – for example, if you’re self-employed we know which lenders are more flexible with documentation. We’ll present the top options and recommend the one we believe is best for you.
4. Loan Application. We assist you in completing the loan application, gathering necessary documents (income statements, identification, etc.) and verifying everything meets the lender’s criteria. We then submit the application on your behalf. During this time, we stay in close contact with the lender, answer any additional questions they have, and keep you updated.
5. Approval & Settlement. Once your loan is approved, we review the loan contract with you to ensure you’re happy with all terms. We coordinate with your conveyancer or solicitor for settlement, making sure the lender is ready on funding day. Settlement day is when the property transfers to you – and we guide you through this final step too.
6. After-Settlement Support. Our service doesn’t end at settlement. We’re here to help with any post-settlement questions (like how to set up repayments or use any offset account), and if your situation changes, we continue offering advice. In the future, if interest rates drop or you want to refinance for a better deal, we’ll proactively reach out to assist you again.

Throughout this process, we handle the complex work so you can focus on your move or investment. Many clients remark that the ease and personal touch of our service is well worth it – they relax knowing a knowledgeable broker is handling the loan on their behalf.

Our Mortgage Services in Rockhampton

We offer in-depth expertise in a full range of loan products, all tailored to the Rockhampton market. Here are our main services:

1. First Home Buyers Loans Rockhampton

Buying your first home is exciting and stressful – we make it easier. We guide first-home buyers in Rockhampton through every requirement:

• Home Loan Pre-Approval: We can quickly organise a home loan pre-approval so you know your budget before house hunting. This often strengthens your offer on a property.
• Low Deposit Home Loans: Don’t have a 20% deposit? No worries. We access special low-deposit loans that allow first-time buyers to purchase with as little as 5–10% down. We’ll explain lender mortgage insurance (LMI) options or government deposit schemes.
• First Home Buyer Loan Schemes: We assist you with government schemes like the First Home Guarantee (formerly the First Home Loan Deposit Scheme) and the First Home Owner Grant. For example, eligible buyers can get a 5% deposit loan with no LMI under the Guarantee, and up to $30,000 cash grant on a new-build home (house must be under $750,000). We’ll check if you qualify for these benefits and help you claim them.
• Stamp Duty Concessions: Queensland now offers full stamp duty exemption on new homes for first-home buyers (contracts signed from May 2025). We ensure you take advantage of this (worth thousands of dollars) if you’re buying a new house or building. Even for existing homes, we’ll calculate any concessions you can get.
• Best Home Loan Interest Rates: We always aim to get the best home loan interest rates Rockhampton can offer. By comparing across lenders, we secure competitive rates and low fees. This can save you thousands over the life of your loan.
• Personalized Support: As first-home buyer specialists, we explain each step in plain language. We often work with buyers from local suburbs like Park Avenue, Frenchville and Norman Gardens who have never taken a mortgage before. We answer every question about repayments, budgeting, builder loans (if you’re building), and help you confidently submit your application.

For example, we recently helped a young couple build their first home in Norman Gardens. They used a low-deposit loan (first home guarantee) plus stamp duty savings to move into their dream home early. We also guided another family in Rockhampton City through pre-approval and navigating the First Home Owner Grant.

First Home Buyers in Rockhampton: we’re here to make your first home purchase a smooth experience. From pre-approval to picking keys, we’ve got you covered.

2. Refinancing in Rockhampton

If you already have a home loan, a refinancing home mortgage Rockhampton can put money back in your pocket. Many Rockhampton borrowers are surprised how much they can save or improve their loan by refinancing:

• Getting a Better Interest Rate: Even if you refinanced recently, rates may have moved. We review your current loan and market offers – often we find a significantly lower interest rate or waived fees. This can reduce your monthly repayments or total interest paid.
• Debt Consolidation: Refinancing allows you to roll other debts into your mortgage (more on that below). By consolidating credit cards or personal loans into a single home loan at a lower rate, you pay off debt faster and save on interest.
• Changing Loan Type: Maybe your loan is on interest-only (common for investment loans) but you now want to switch to principal-and-interest to build equity. Or vice versa. We handle the paperwork to swap lenders or restructure your loan features as needed.
• Improved Loan Features: Perhaps you want an offset account or extra repayment flexibility. Some older loans lack these features. We can refinance you into a modern loan product that better suits your needs (with redraw, offset accounts, fixed or variable options).
• Securing Your Financial Future: Refinancing can also be a good time to reassess your financial situation. For example, if you or your spouse have changed jobs, or you have another child, we adjust your borrowing capacity. A new loan might also extend or shorten your loan term to improve cash flow or pay it off quicker.

Refinancing may sound complex, but as local Rockhampton brokers we handle the details. We take your existing mortgage, apply to new lenders on your behalf, and ensure switching loans is seamless. Importantly, we only recommend refinancing if it truly saves you money or gives you a tangible benefit. Many clients come to us after interest rates rise and find a better deal – our advice often pays for itself within months.

Example: A Rockhampton family on a 25-year P&I loan came to us worried about rising rates. We refinanced them to a competitor’s loan with a 0.3% lower interest rate and no annual fees. Their repayment dropped by ~$150/month, even after accounting for a small break fee. Over five years, that’s over $9,000 saved.

In short, if you have a home mortgage in Rockhampton, it’s worth talking to us about refinancing for the best rate and terms. We’ll tell you upfront if it makes sense or not, so you can make an informed decision.

3. Investment Property Loans Rockhampton

Rockhampton is a standout market for property investors, thanks to its high rental yields and capital growth. Our team helps investors navigate this market with the right loan strategy:

• Investment Loan Structure: Investment property loans often offer features like interest-only repayments and high LVRs (up to 80-90%) to maximize cash flow. We find loans that let you keep repayments low while you establish your rental income stream.
• Maximising Tax Benefits: By structuring a loan correctly (eg. having an offset account, claiming interest deductions), you can reduce taxable income. We’ll liaise with your accountant if needed to match the loan product to your tax strategy.
• High Rental Yields: With Rockhampton’s rental yields around 5–6%, investors here see strong returns. We crunch the numbers to ensure the loan you pick actually makes sense. For example, if you buy a $500k property renting at $450/week, we’ll show you the expected cash flow and ROI on different loan options.
• Capital Growth Potential: Areas like Park Avenue, Norman Gardens and suburbs north of Rockyview are on an upswing. We’ll advise on loan options (variable vs fixed, how long to fix, etc.) that align with your investment horizon.
• Multiple Properties: If you’re adding to your portfolio, we can help with restructure loans, bridging loans (to purchase a new property before selling another), or even splitting loans between properties. Our wholesale relationships mean we can often get multi-property loans that regular banks won’t approve easily.

Because we’re in Rockhampton, we understand the local rental market. We’ve worked with many investors – from first-time landlords to seasoned pros – helping them secure loans on units and houses. For example, one investor bought a duplex in Quay Street in 2023. We helped arrange an interest-only loan with a great variable rate, which he used to maximize his cashflow. His rental yield (after costs) is nearly 5.5%, so his mortgage repayments are covered by rent and he still has equity growth each year.

If you’re looking to expand or start a property portfolio in Rockhampton, our investment property home loans Rockhampton service will guide you to the best strategy. We’ll make sure you have access to loans with competitive interest rates and features designed for investors.

4. Construction Loans Rockhampton

Building a new home or major renovation? Our residential construction home loan Rockhampton services cover all financing needs:

• Construction Financing: Construction loans work differently from standard mortgages. You don’t need the full amount upfront. Instead, you pay interest only on the drawn amount (progress payments). We help arrange progress-draw loans where the bank releases funds to your builder as each building stage is completed.
• Bridging Loans: If you’re selling one property to build another, a bridging loan can cover the gap between purchasing/building the new home and selling your old one. We compare lenders to find smooth bridge funding options.
• Equity Release: Have equity in your land? If you own land already, you may only need a loan to cover construction. We source the best construction loan for your deposit and build cost.
• Fixed vs Variable Options: Construction loan interest rates may differ for fixed vs variable portions. We advise on locking in rates early or choosing variable depending on your risk profile.
• Local Building Costs: Rockhampton has its own construction market. We can recommend reputable local builders and will ensure the loan amount covers realistic building costs (some lenders have minimum or maximum limits).

For instance, we recently assisted a family building in Park Avenue. They borrowed 90% of the land+build cost, paid just interest during construction, and only started principal repayments after handover. By coordinating with their builder’s schedule, we made sure the loan drawdowns happened smoothly, so there were no delays in paying invoices.

In short, our brokers are experts in construction and renovation loans Rockhampton. We’ll find a lender that suits your project and handle the complex drawdown process. You can focus on designing your new home, while we make sure your financing is solid and on schedule.

5. Vehicle & Car Loans Rockhampton

Need a loan for a car or other vehicle? We offer competitive car loans Rockhampton for everything from compact cars to work utes:

• New and Used Cars: We arrange financing for both brand-new and used vehicles. Even if you haven’t purchased yet, we can pre-qualify you so you know your budget. Many lenders allow up to 100% financing for new cars, meaning no deposit for new first-time buyers.
• Competitive Rates: New car loans often have very low interest rates (sometimes as low as 5–6% for top credit customers). Used car loans are a bit higher but still competitive. We’ll compare lenders to secure you a great rate.
• Loan Terms: We can set up terms from 1 year up to 7 years, depending on what you want to pay monthly. Longer terms reduce your weekly payment, while shorter terms save interest. We’ll help you pick the right balance.
• Balloon Payment Options: If you prefer lower monthly payments, some lenders offer a balloon payment at the end. We can include a balloon term (for example 20–50% of the car value) which you can pay later or refinance again.
• Quick Approvals: As an experienced broker, we can usually get car loan approvals faster than going to a dealership. Once approved, your finance is guaranteed (in most cases) so you can shop with confidence.
• No-Haggle: Our car loans cover the full purchase price, so you can finance extras (like extended warranties or accessories) up to your borrowing limit.

For example, one Rockhampton client borrowed to buy a new SUV. We arranged a $50,000 new car loan with 3-year term at a very low fixed rate. This allowed them to buy the exact model they wanted without compromising on monthly budget.

Car loans are often overlooked by mortgage brokers, but we include them because we know people’s finances are holistic. We’ll treat your vehicle loan with the same care as your home loan – securing you the best new car loan interest rate Rockhampton and terms.

6. Debt Consolidation Loans Rockhampton

If you have multiple debts (like credit cards, personal loans, store cards) piling up, consolidating them into one home loan can save a lot of money:

• Lower Interest Rate: Credit cards and personal loans often charge 15–20% p.a. or more. If you consolidate that debt into your mortgage, you might drop it to ~6–7% (depending on home loan rates), saving thousands in interest.
• Simpler Payments: Instead of juggling many due dates, you make one monthly home loan payment. This reduces stress and helps ensure you don’t miss payments on smaller debts.
• Quicker Debt-Free Goal: By lowering interest and having a fixed repayment schedule, you can pay off your debts faster. We can set up a loan term that clears all debts in a set number of years (e.g. 5 or 10 years), which is difficult to do with minimum credit card payments.
• Use of Equity: If you’ve built equity in your home, we can take some of that out to pay off debts. If not, sometimes lenders allow a “cash-out refinance” (borrow more than the property value by a small amount) specifically for consolidation.
• Credit Score Impact: Consolidating can actually improve your credit score because it lowers the credit utilisation (once cards are paid off) and reduces the number of open accounts. However, you need to ensure discipline – consolidation isn’t free money. We counsel you on the responsible use of credit going forward.

For instance, we recently helped a Rockhampton couple consolidate $30,000 of credit card debt at ~20% into their home loan. After refinancing, their new loan covered that debt at 6.5%. Their monthly payments on the consolidated loan were about the same as their old minimum card payments – but now they are on track to be debt-free in 7 years, instead of paying off just interest forever.

If high-interest debt is weighing on you, speak to us about debt consolidation loans Rockhampton. We’ll crunch the numbers and show you potential savings. Often the benefit is immediate. And by “rolling” the debt into the mortgage, you only have one loan to manage.

Learn More about Debt Consolidation Loans

7. SMSF Home Loans Rockhampton

For Rockhampton investors who want to use their superannuation to invest in property, we offer SMSF home loans Rockhampton (Self-Managed Super Fund loans). This allows your super fund to buy a residential investment property:

• How SMSF Loans Work: The SMSF must set up a Limited Recourse Borrowing Arrangement (LRBA) with the lender. The loan is taken out by a trust (for the SMSF) and secured by the property. Only the SMSF has rights to the property, not you personally.
• Loan-to-Value Ratio: Typically, lenders allow up to 60% LVR for SMSF residential loans (so you’d need at least 40% of the property value in cash or existing SMSF balance). We’ll help you figure out how much deposit your SMSF needs.
• Eligible Properties: The property must be used as an investment for the fund. It can be a house or unit anywhere in Australia. (Remember it cannot be a property that you or any related party personally live in.)
• Lender Options: Not all lenders offer SMSF loans. We have access to specialist lenders that cater to SMSFs at competitive rates. We’ll present options and explain the slightly different fees and interest rates involved.
• Compliance and Process: SMSF loans have extra compliance steps (trust deeds, solicitor’s report, etc.). We guide you through these steps. We work with experienced solicitors and accountants who understand SMSF requirements so the loan is set up correctly.

An example: a Rockhampton business owner wanted to use $200,000 in his SMSF to buy a Gold Coast investment apartment. We arranged an SMSF loan for 60% of the purchase price. The property was titled to the SMSF, and rental income flows back into the fund. All approvals, loan documents and legal checks were handled by us in coordination with his accountant. Now his super fund owns a growing asset outside the stock market.

In summary, our SMSF loans for residential property Rockhampton service helps you diversify your retirement savings through property. We handle the complex loan application, coordinate trustees, and find a lender that suits your fund’s profile.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a mortgage broker?

A mortgage broker is a licensed finance professional who helps people find and secure home loans. Instead of going directly to one bank, a broker shops around dozens of lenders to compare loan options (rates, fees, features). A broker answers your questions, assists with paperwork, and advises on the best loan structure. At no cost to you, we connect you with loans you might not find on your own. Think of us as your personal home loan adviser.

What do mortgage brokers do?

Mortgage brokers guide you through the entire home loan process. We assess your financial situation and borrowing needs, recommend suitable loan products from various lenders, handle the application paperwork, and liaise with lenders on your behalf. We organise things like home loan pre-approvals and help you understand rates, repayments, and eligibility. Essentially, we do the legwork so you can focus on finding your home, not on bank paperwork.

What is the downside of using a mortgage broker?

Many borrowers worry about downsides, but there are very few. One misconception is that using a broker will cost you more – in Australia, it usually doesn’t, because brokers are paid by lenders. Another concern is potential bias: while brokers get paid by lenders, regulations require us to act in your best interests first. We often have access to the same rates as a bank branch or sometimes better wholesale deals. In our experience, the main “downside” people feel is simply having one more advisor in the mix. But since we simplify the process and save you time, the benefits far outweigh any negatives.

Is it better to use a mortgage broker or a bank?

It depends on your needs, but brokers generally have the advantage of choice. A bank’s home loan officer can only offer that bank’s products. A good mortgage broker works with many lenders, giving you a wider range of options to find a better rate or the right loan features. Banks might offer exclusive deals to their customers, but brokers can often match or beat those by comparing across the industry. Many Rockhampton borrowers find brokers save them effort and money. However, if you have a very simple loan and loyalty to one bank, going direct could be straightforward too. We always encourage clients to compare both options.

Is it worth paying a mortgage broker?

In Australia, you typically don’t pay anything out of pocket to use a mortgage broker. Brokers earn a commission from the lender, not from you. So the question is really, “Is it worth using a broker?” The answer is usually yes – because a broker can save you more than their commission. For example, by securing a lower interest rate or finding a lender willing to accept your special circumstances (like low deposit or self-employed income), you often gain far more than the value of that 0.6% fee. Many clients feel our advice and the time we save them is well worth it, especially given it doesn’t cost them upfront.

How much does a mortgage broker make on a $500,000 mortgage?

Typically, a broker’s commission is about 0.6–0.7% of the loan (plus a small ongoing trail fee on the loan balance). On a $500,000 loan, that’s roughly $3,000–$3,500 in commission. (This is paid by the lender after settlement, not by you.) This commission covers the service of finding your loan, helping with the application, and guiding you through settlement. Importantly, these costs are already built into the lender’s rates, so you don’t pay them directly.

How much should a broker charge for a mortgage?

Good question – and in Australia, licensed mortgage brokers typically charge nothing to the borrower. We are prohibited from charging upfront broker fees to clients in most cases. Our earnings come from lender commissions, which are negotiated upfront with the lenders. So, in practice, you should not be paying any extra fee to your broker on top of your home loan costs. If a broker asks you for a fee, it would be unusual in our regulated environment.

What shouldn’t I say to a mortgage broker?

Be open and honest! We always advise clients not to hide financial information. Don’t lie about your income, debts, or living situation – this can come back to bite you during credit checks. Also, avoid giving definitive details like “I won’t consider any loan over X” before seeing all options; sometimes a slightly higher rate with better features might suit you better. Instead, tell us your max budget and ideal loan terms. Also, don’t say things like “I don’t mind paying higher fees” – let us handle those decisions. In short, just treat the broker as your partner: be truthful about your finances and upfront about what you want from a loan, and we’ll do the rest.

How do I tell if a mortgage broker is good?

Look for these signs: a good broker will have clear communication, take time to explain things simply, and be transparent about fees and processes. They should hold a valid Australian credit licence (ACC and MFAA numbers if you want to verify). Check reviews or ask for referrals from friends – trustworthy brokers usually have happy clients. Also, a reputable broker will ask detailed questions about your finances (they need to, to find the right loan) and will say “no” if a loan isn’t a great fit for you. Finally, we believe the quality of a broker’s guidance is demonstrated by whether you end up with better loan terms than you could have gotten on your own. (P.S. Feel free to compare quotes! If we can’t get you a better deal than you found, we’ll tell you.)

How much does it cost to go to a mortgage broker?

If you’re talking about the cost of a consultation, it’s zero – it’s completely free. There’s no application fee just to talk to us or get a quote. And if you proceed with a loan we recommend, still there’s no fee from our side. We are paid by the lender afterward. In short, you risk nothing by consulting us, and often gain a lot in savings and convenience.

Is it worth seeing a mortgage broker?

Absolutely – especially in Rockhampton’s current market. Even if you think you have a decent bank offer, a broker can ensure it’s the best available. In many cases, customers save money or unlock loan features they didn’t know were possible. For example, first-home buyers are often pleasantly surprised to learn about grants and low-deposit loans they didn’t find on their own. Refinancing clients often see reduced repayments. Since seeing a broker costs you nothing extra, we always encourage people to at least get a second opinion. In our 20+ years, we’ve seen countless cases where an hour with a broker has paid off hundreds of dollars per month.

Which banks don’t use brokers?

Almost all major banks do work with brokers in Australia – CBA, Westpac, ANZ, NAB, Suncorp, and most credit unions have broker programs. Some very small local building societies or direct lenders may not accept broker referrals (they might require you to apply directly), but these are the exception. In the Rockhampton area, our lending panel includes all the big players plus many smaller lenders. If there is any lender you specifically want to go with, just let us know and we’ll confirm if our panel covers it. In practice, it’s very rare that a client’s ideal lender is inaccessible – we have access to nearly every mainstream home loan available to Queenslanders.

We hope these FAQs answered your top questions! If you have more, just contact us – we’re here to help Rockhampton borrowers 24/7.

Rockhampton-Focused Scenarios

Let’s illustrate how we can help various Rockhampton clients with realistic scenarios:

• First-Home Families: Priya and Raj live in Frenchville and are saving to buy their first home. They earn stable incomes as a teacher and nurse. We helped them understand the First Home Guarantee scheme, applied for pre-approval and showed that with just a 5% deposit and stamp duty savings, they could afford a house in Park Avenue. They moved into their home ahead of schedule, using our budget guidance.
• Self-Employed Borrowers: Ahmed, a self-employed tradesman in Rockhampton, had trouble getting a bank loan on his own due to complex income. We collected his BAS and business docs and approached lenders we know who specialise in self-employed clients. Thanks to that, he secured a loan on his first try – something he doubted was possible.
• Regional Investors: The Smith family owned a rental in Yeppoon and wanted to buy a second property in Rockhampton. We showed them how their equity and a new investment loan could fund a duplex purchase. By adjusting from a 30-year loan to a 20-year loan on one property and adding a new loan on the second, they maximised depreciation benefits and grew their portfolio quickly.
• Upgraders and Families: Jane and Mick, a couple in Norman Gardens with a growing family, needed a bigger home. Their existing bank loan was old and non-flexible. We refinanced their first home to a larger loan, added the equity to fund the deposit on their next home, and tailored the repayment schedule to match their cash flow. They seamlessly moved into a 4-bedroom house without the stress of multiple bank dealings.

These are just examples – every client is unique, but each trusted us with their Rockhampton home loan needs and got solutions that made their lives easier.