What are home loan break fees?
Estimated read time: 3 Minutes
When you first take out a home loan, chances are that you’re not thinking about paying off your loan early or even refinancing. But it’s a good idea to think ahead and be aware of any costs that might apply if you find yourself in a situation where you’re ending your loan early.
It could be that you want to sell your home, to renovate, to refinance, to take advantage of a lower interest rate, or even to consolidate other debts. Whatever the reason you’re paying off your home loan early, it’s always worth being aware of the home loan break fees which will vary from lender to lender.
We help outline types of fees to look out for, and when these fees may apply:
What are home loan break fees?
Break fees are usually charged when you end your fixed rate loan before the end of the agreed period. These fees can be extremely high, so a word to the wise - when you’re considering refinancing your fixed rate loan or repaying it in full ahead of fixed rate term, look out for these break fees.
When do break fees apply?
Usually you’re required to pay the break fee at the time you end your loan. These fees may include the difference in interest payments between the rate you fixed your loan at and the current interest rate. So if interest rates have fallen a lot since you took out your loan, your break fee could be very high. The calculation of break fees can be quite complex so it’s a good idea to ask your loan provider for a quote before you decide to end your fixed rate loan.
What are the different types of break fees?
The names used for break fees vary between lenders, but they all refer to a fee charged when paying out you loan early. Here is some common terminology:
Early exit fees
Discharge fees
Refinancing fees
If you’re thinking of refinancing your home loan there could be some fees involved. Some may relate to setting up the new loan, while others may be payable upon discharging your current home loan - such as the early exit fee (for loans signed up before 1 July 2011), discharge fees or a fixed rate loan break fee.
There are many different fees that can be charged as part of a home loan refinance, and break fees are just one category. That’s why it’s important to look at all the possible costs carefully when you’re considering a home loan.
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Contributor | Dianne Wassouf, Head of Customer Solutions
Dianne joined Pepper in 2012 and is now responsible for all Customer Service and Resolutions post settlement teams across Australia and Manila. Her expertise focuses on customer solutions and assistance and has equipped her with a deep understanding of client relations and service excellence.
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