Rising Mortgage Stress in Australia: Key Strategies for Borrowers to Stay on Track

Amid mounting mortgage stress in Australia, now over 1.6 million people (i.e., 27.9% of mortgage holders) are facing risks, which has resulted in increased pressure on borrowers. This pressure has only worsened due to projected interest cuts from the Reserve Bank of Australia being rendered ineffective. Without a rate cut shortly, homeowners are forced to manage their finances without assistance from the RBA.

Effective Broker Communication:

MacRae Tony of Bluestone Home Loans indicates that there should be effective communication between brokers and borrowers. This encourages constant contact that allows these brokers to offer financial strain-managing advice at an appropriate time. “Addressing the problem at the earliest possible time gives access to multiple solutions,” MacRae states. This strategy ensures that assistance is provided at an appropriate time before the problem worsens.

Hardship Assistance:

With constant rates, lenders have also been generous enough to offer some out-of-payment hardships, which are beneficial in some situations. Deferring payments, interest-only repayments, and some flexible partial payments are a few options that can be considered. In that pool, borrowers who do require assistance should make sure to get in touch with their lender because they may have options to discuss. Payment holidays, for example, are available by some lenders for certain cases.

Re-financing: A Possible Solution

For some borrowers, re-financing may result in lower monthly mortgage payments, even if the interest rate remains the same. If borrowers are willing to change the terms of their loan or switch to a fixed-rate mortgage, they may gain a more favourable repayment offer. The brokers will of course work with lenders to get the best deal for the borrower. 

Establishing a Financial Firewall

Even without cuts, borrowers have some protection against increases with the establishment of an emergency fund. By putting savings away and changing spending habits, borrowers can weather changes in the market. Having lower-priority mortgage payments and reducing budgetary expenditures brings some comfort in these turbulent economic conditions.

Looking Beyond Mortgage Payments

Aside from mortgage repayments, there are various other components of the cost of living and other aspects that need lifestyle considerations, debt management, and saving for emergencies. A mortgage payment is only part of the life of the borrower. A long-term approach ensures that the borrower can take the necessary steps to remain afloat irrespective of the market conditions. Adopting a holistic approach to finances is crucial.

Managing Your Mortgage Effectively

With mortgage stress being highly impactful to many borrowers, these strategies may be useful in disassociating themselves from the discouraging impacts of RBA’s inaction. Starting from being proactive and building up a net for financial support can take you far in managing the repayments and not getting drowned in them while simultaneously providing the right tools and support to this burden. As long as the set rate isn’t altered, navigating through mortgage challenges remains achievable.

 At OM Financials, we assist clients in making the right financial plan to deal with situations, including with higher interest rates. Our skilled mortgage brokers will assist with the refinance process and provide valuable advice on how to effectively manage mortgage stress Reach out to us today at OM Financials for a consultation with our brokers or give us a call at 04788 769 67.

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