Debt management and lending advice
Your home loan is probably your biggest debt. Make sure it works with your financial plan, not against it.
Is debt holding the rest of your plans back?
A mortgage, a car loan, a credit card or two: for most households, debt is simply part of life. The problem is when it starts dictating everything else, from how much you can save to when you can afford to retire.
We provide financial advice on managing debt, planning repayments and saving towards your next property purchase. For home loans, refinancing and other mortgage broking services, we can also refer you to Stevens Lending, whose accredited Credit Representatives can assist with your lending needs.
Making sense of your borrowing decisions
From saving for your first home to managing an existing mortgage, borrowing decisions can have a lasting impact on your finances.
Saving for your first home
A deposit is only part of the cost of buying a home. We help you plan for upfront expenses, ongoing repayments and the costs of homeownership, so you can assess what may be affordable before taking the next step.
Buying your next home or investment property
Thinking about upgrading, keeping your current property or buying an investment? We look at the financial implications, including your existing commitments, available funds and the potential impact of additional borrowing.
Managing multiple debts
Credit cards, personal loans and other debts can come with different interest rates and repayment terms. We review your commitments and consider repayment priorities, ways to reduce the interest you pay and the potential costs involved.
Reviewing your mortgage repayments
Extra repayments, offset accounts and redraw facilities can all affect how you manage your home loan. We consider how these options may fit with your household budget, savings needs and other financial commitments.
Referral to Stevens Lending
Stevens & Co Financial Services is not a lender and does not provide credit.
Michael Stevens and MJGM Pty Ltd t/a Stevens Lending Services are credit representatives (No. 480961 and 480962, respectively) of National Mortgage Brokers Pty Ltd ABN 88 093 874 376 (Australian Credit Licence No. 391209). Credit services by these entities are not provided by Infocus Securities Australia Pty Ltd.
Financial planning advice and mortgage broking are separate services, and we'll always be clear about which one you're receiving.
Debt and lending questions
Is a mortgage broker different from a financial planner?
Yes. A mortgage broker helps you find and apply for a loan, while a financial planner advises on your overall finances, such as super, investments, insurance and managing debt. Stevens & Co provides financial planning, and we can also provide a referral to Stevens Lending who are accredited Credit Representatives to assist you with mortgage broking.
How much deposit do I need to buy a home?
Many lenders look for a 20% deposit to avoid lenders mortgage insurance, although some accept less. Government schemes may help eligible first home buyers purchase with a smaller deposit. We help you build a savings plan and timeline to reach your target.
Can I use my super to save for a home deposit?
Potentially. The First Home Super Saver Scheme (FHSS) allows eligible first home buyers to make voluntary contributions to super and later withdraw eligible amounts, plus associated earnings, towards a home deposit.
Contribution and withdrawal limits apply, along with eligibility and tax rules. It's worth understanding these before deciding whether the scheme is suitable for you.
How much can I afford to borrow?
The amount a lender may approve depends on factors including your income, living expenses, existing debts, deposit and the lender's assessment criteria.
But being approved for a loan and being comfortable with the repayments aren't necessarily the same thing. We can help you consider repayments alongside your everyday expenses and other financial commitments, while Stevens Lending can assist with mortgage options and borrowing assessments.
Explore our other services
Get your debt working with your plan.
Planning to buy, upgrade or get on top of debt? A conversation now can help you plan with confidence and make sure your borrowing fits the rest of your goals.