Often clients ask us if they should switch their home loan from a variable rate to a fixed rate. Predictions on likely interest rate movements are difficult, but benefits can be obtained by choosing the right type of loan at the right time. It helps to have a clear understanding of the pros and cons of fixed rates versus variable rates, to help make a good decision.

Variable Rate Loan:

If your loan is on a variable rate, your loan will likely be affected by rate movements, up or down. This means that you will pay less interest when the rates are low. You are able to make extra repayments towards your loan without incurring penalties and if you sell your home you will not have to pay a break fee. You will also be free to re-finance, at minimal cost,  should a better deal come along.

Many variable rate loans also come with the option of a 100% offset facility, and the money sitting in this account is offset against the borrowed amount, saving you interest on your loan while giving you free access to the funds just like a transaction account. However, with a variable rate loan you are vulnerable to interest rate hikes which could impact upon your ability to service your loan. You may recall 1990 when interest rates reached an all-time high of 17.5% – which is in the vicinity of your average Credit Card rate today!

Fixed Rate Loan:

So why don’t we all just fix our interest rates? There are pros and cons to having a Fixed Rate loan –

PRO’S:

• Your repayments will remain fixed for the duration of the fixed period, which will provide you with a level of certainty in terms of budgeting

• The balance in your offset account will be taken off your principal loan amount, actively helping to reduce the amount of interest you pay

• Rate rises won’t affect you during this period.

CONS:

• You are unable to refinance during this period without incurring penalties, so if a better deal comes along you could miss out.

• If you sell your home during this period, you may have to pay a break fee.