You have probably seen or read in the news recently that the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) has issued guidelines resulting in changes to mortgage lending policy.
You may be wondering exactly what the changes mean — and particularly what they mean for you.

Background
Briefly, the Federal Government and the Reserve Bank have expressed concerns about a potentially overheated property market, especially in Sydney and Melbourne. APRA is looking to take the heat out of the market by slowing the growth of investment lending.
In its role as regulator of banks and other financial institutions, APRA has issued guidelines designed to do that, as well as ensuring the ongoing strength of Australian banks.

Key changes
APRA has asked banks to cap investment loan growth at 10%. A number of lenders are already at, or even over, this limit, so they are under pressure to significantly reduce their investment lending.
The four major banks and Macquarie Bank are also required to increase the capital they hold against mortgages, which tends to increase the cost of lending. It is likely the banks will pass on some of those costs to customers via higher interest rates.

What does this mean for you?
If you have a home loan that includes principal repayments, you may not be affected.
Some lenders may even decrease interest rates on owner-occupier loans.
If you have a variable rate investment loan, or an ‘interest only’ variable rate home or investment loan, you may find that your lender increases the interest rate on that loan.
If you are looking at buying an investment property, you are likely to find the lending market more restricted than in the past. This doesn’t mean you won’t be able to find a loan that suits you, just that it may take a little more time. That’s where I can help.

Talk to me
Of course, everyone’s situation is different, and the information above is simply an overview. I am always happy to discuss your situation, particularly if you have any queries or concerns. You can reach me via phone or email.
Regards
Russell Thompson
russell@azura.net.au
0409 993 264

This is general information only. When considering whether or not to obtain a loan or
review your loan, we recommend that you obtain advice on your circumstances from
appropriate experts.