finder.com.au
Home
Home Loan Finder

Interest-only home loans

Interest only loan repayments start lower because you just pay off the interest. You pay more interest in the long run, but for the right borrower it can be a good option.

Richard Whitten
Richard Whitten

Last updated:

Compare loans Learn More
Happy couple with son in front of their home

On this page you can find competitive interest only mortgages, get more information about these products and find out if they're right for you.

Compare interest only rates
How interest only loans work?
Risks and benefits
Eligibility and application

Interest only home loan rates October 2019

You can sort the mortgages in the table below by lowest interest rate, LVR or fees. Click "Advanced search" to see just investor loans or just owner occupier loans. The loans below have interest only repayments. However, the repayment calculation shows principal and interest repayments. Your initial repayments will be lower.

Rates last updated October 24th, 2019
$
Loan purpose
Offset account
Loan type
Repayment type
Your filter criteria do not match any product
Name Product Interest Rate (p.a.) Comp Rate^ (p.a.) Application Fee Ongoing Fees Max LVR Monthly Payment Short Description
UBank UHomeLoan Variable Rate - Discount Offer Owner Occupier Interest Only (*now 3.63%, drops to 3.38% on 29 Oct)
UBank UHomeLoan Variable Rate - Discount Offer Owner Occupier Interest Only (*now 3.63%, drops to 3.38% on 29 Oct)
3.38%
3.38%
$0
$0 p.a.
80%
This rate will drop to 3.38% p.a on 29 October 2019 for new and existing customers. This is a competitive interest-only rate product that's also low in fees.
Go to site More info
Athena Variable Home Loan - Refinance (Owner Occupier, IO)
Athena Variable Home Loan - Refinance (Owner Occupier, IO)
3.34%
2.99%
$0
$0 p.a.
80%
Owner occupiers can refinance to one of the most competitive interest-only rates in the market. No application fee and no ongoing fees. Refinancers only.
Go to site More info
UBank UHomeLoan - 1 Year Fixed Rate (Owner Occupier, IO)
UBank UHomeLoan - 1 Year Fixed Rate (Owner Occupier, IO)
2.89%
3.62%
$395
$0 p.a.
80%
A one year fixed rate offer with no ongoing bank fees.
Go to site More info
ANZ Breakfree Package Home Loan - 2 Year Fixed (Investor, IO)
ANZ Breakfree Package Home Loan - 2 Year Fixed (Investor, IO)
3.49%
5.01%
$0
$395 p.a.
80%
Enquire now More info
Athena Variable Home Loan - Refinance (Investor, IO)
Athena Variable Home Loan - Refinance (Investor, IO)
3.34%
3.24%
$0
$0 p.a.
80%
Current property investors can switch to one of the most competitive interest-only investor rates in the market. No application or ongoing fees. Refinancers only.
Go to site More info
UBank UHomeLoan - 1 Year Fixed Rate (Investor, IO)
UBank UHomeLoan - 1 Year Fixed Rate (Investor, IO)
3.04%
4.08%
$395
$0 p.a.
80%
Investors can enjoy flexible repayments and an easy application process with this pioneering online lender.
Go to site More info
Virgin Reward Me Variable Home Loan - LVR <=80% ($500k to $750k Owner Occupier, IO)
Virgin Reward Me Variable Home Loan - LVR <=80% ($500k to $750k Owner Occupier, IO)
3.94%
3.93%
$0
$10 monthly ($120 p.a.)
80%
A variable rate home loan with no application fees and the opportunity to earn Velocity points.
Enquire now More info
UBank UHomeLoan - 3 Year Fixed Rate (Owner Occupier, IO)
UBank UHomeLoan - 3 Year Fixed Rate (Owner Occupier, IO)
2.84%
3.41%
$395
$0 p.a.
80%
A competitive 3 year fixed rate with no ongoing bank fees.
Go to site More info
Adelaide Bank SmartFix Home Loan - 2 Year Fixed Rate (Owner Occupier, IO)
Adelaide Bank SmartFix Home Loan - 2 Year Fixed Rate (Owner Occupier, IO)
3.69%
3.45%
$375
$15 monthly ($180 p.a.)
80%
Home buyers with a 20% deposit can get this low interest-only rate. It also comes with a 100% offset account.
Enquire now More info

Compare up to 4 providers

Aussie Home Loans Logo

Start your home loan application with expert help from Aussie.

By submitting this form, you agree to the Finder Privacy and Cookies Policy and Terms of Use

Applications are subject to approval. Conditions, fees and charges apply. Please note that you need to be an Australian citizen or permanent resident to apply.

Credit services for Aussie Select, Aussie Activate and Aussie Elevate products are provided by AHL Investments Pty Ltd ACN 105 265 861 (“Aussie”) and its appointed credit representatives, Australian Credit Licence 246786. Credit for Aussie Select products is provided by Residential Mortgage Group Pty Ltd ACN 152 378 133, Australian Credit Licence 414133 (“RMG”). RMG is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Commonwealth Bank of Australia ABN 48 123 123 124 AFSL and Australian Credit Licence 234945. Credit for Aussie Activate products is provided by Pepper Finance Corporation Limited ACN 094 317 647 (“Pepper”). Pepper Group Limited ACN 094 317 665, Australian Credit Licence 286655 acts on behalf of Pepper. Credit services for Aussie Elevate products are provided by AHL Investments Pty Ltd ACN 105 265 861 Australian Credit Licence 246786 (“Aussie”) and its appointed credit representatives. Aussie is a trade mark of AHL Investments Pty Ltd ABN 27 105 265 861. Credit and any applicable offset accounts for Aussie Elevate are issued by Bendigo and Adelaide Bank Limited ABN 11 068 049 178 AFSL / Australian Credit Licence 237879.

Aussie is a trade mark of AHL Investments Pty Ltd. Aussie is a subsidiary of the Commonwealth Bank of Australia ABN 48 123 123 124. ©2019 AHL Investments Pty Ltd ABN 27 105 265 861 Australian Credit Licence 246786.

By submitting this form, you agree to the Aussie privacy policy.

An Aussie mortgage broker can find the right home loan for you.

  • FREE Suburb and Property Report with every appointment.
  • Access 3,000+ loans from over 20 lenders.
  • Get expert help with your loan application, including paperwork and eligibility.
Aussie Home Loans Lender Logos

The Adviser’s number 1 placed mortgage broker 7 years running (2013-2019)

How interest only loans work

Most mortgages are principal and interest loans. You borrow money and repay it, plus interest. The money you borrow is called the principal.

But with an interest only loan you just repay the interest on top, not the money you've borrowed. At first. When the loan reverts to principal and interest repayments, you have to repay both the principal and the interest together.

This means interest only loans start with much lower repayments. But over time they cost you more because you have to pay more interest.

They can be risky because the principal is the main part of the loan. If you're not repaying the principal, you're not really owning more of your home.

Read more about how investors can make use of interest only mortgages.

What are the risks and benefits of interest only home loans?

  • Lower repayments. Interest only loans are cheaper at first. If you're struggling to make repayments this loan type can help, for a while. But in the long run they won't.
  • High-growth investment. Property investors in booming markets often use interest only loans. They buy a property, make small interest only payments and watch the property grow in value. Then they sell it for a big profit. They never need to repay the loan.
  • Tax savings. If you're an investor, your repayments may be tax-deductible, particularly if you use a 100% offset account. This is because interest on funds withdrawn from an offset account rather than redrawing from your home loan are tax deductible.

But the risks are obvious.

  • No equity. If your property doesn't grow in value you don't much of it if you're not repaying the principal. You could end up in negative equity.
  • Revert. Repayments will jump up when the loan reverts to principal and interest.
  • Higher interest rates. These mortgages usually come with higher interest rates.

For the well-informed, well-organised borrower an interest only loan can work well. But if you don't know what you're doing it can get messy.

Learn more about the pros and cons of interest-only loans

The interest only trap

Imagine you bought an investment property in 2016. For three years you made interest only repayments. You had trouble renting it out, but you were waiting for the property to grow in value.

But the market slowed and your property lost value. Then your loan reverted to principal and interest.

Now your repayments are much higher and your property is worth less. You haven't paid off any of your loan and if you sell you'll still in debt.

This is the interest only nightmare scenario.

Is it harder to get an interest only home loan now?

APRA's limits on interest only lending have been lifted, but lenders are still careful when assessing interest only borrowers.

Maximise the chances of getting your application approved by:

  • Saving a bigger deposit. Many banks are more willing to consider an interest-only home loan if you have a lower loan-to-value ratio (LVR). A bigger deposit, usually at least 20%, will make you a more attractive borrower. Check out our detailed guide to saving a home loan deposit.
  • Making a plan. Lenders will want to know why you want an interest-only home loan versus a principal and interest loan. If you can explain your justification for the loan and demonstrate your investment plans, you'll be in a much better position.
  • Talk to a mortgage broker. A broker's job is to help you find a loan that suits your needs and financial situation. The broker vets your application before the lender does, maximising your chances of approval. Get in touch with a broker today.

Detailed guide to home loan applications and paperwork

Interest only infographic

Was this content helpful to you? No  Yes

Home Loan Offers

Important Information*
Logo for UBank UHomeLoan Variable Rate - Discount offer for Owner Occupiers (*now 3.09%, drops to 2.84% on 29 Oct), P&I $200K+
UBank UHomeLoan Variable Rate - Discount offer for Owner Occupiers (*now 3.09%, drops to 2.84% on 29 Oct), P&I $200K+

Take advantage of a low-fee mortgage with a special interest rate of just 2.84% p.a. and a 2.84% p.a. comparison rate.

More info
Logo for Athena Variable Home Loan - Refinance (Owner Occupier, P&I)
Athena Variable Home Loan - Refinance (Owner Occupier, P&I)

Owner occupiers looking to refinance can get one of the lowest rates in the market with this variable rate mortgage. $0 application fee and $0 ongoing fees. Refinancers only.

More info
Logo for Virgin Reward Me Fixed Rate Home Loan - 2 Year $300k+ Special offer (Owner Occupier, P&I)
Virgin Reward Me Fixed Rate Home Loan - 2 Year $300k+ Special offer (Owner Occupier, P&I)

Buy your home and lock in a low rate for the first two years. Available with a 10% deposit. Earn Velocity Frequent Flyer Points at settlement, monthly and every three years, plus extra bonus points for a limited time.

More info

Ask an Expert

You are about to post a question on finder.com.au:

  • Do not enter personal information (eg. surname, phone number, bank details) as your question will be made public
  • finder.com.au is a financial comparison and information service, not a bank or product provider
  • We cannot provide you with personal advice or recommendations
  • Your answer might already be waiting – check previous questions below to see if yours has already been asked

Finder only provides general advice and factual information, so consider your own circumstances, or seek advice before you decide to act on our content. By submitting a question, you're accepting our Terms of Use, Disclaimer & Privacy Policy and Privacy & Cookies Policy.

34 Responses

  1. Default Gravatar
    AlanJune 15, 2019

    How likely is it that our lender would consider interest only on our mortgage which is 5.4% interest and we are finding it difficult to pay the high repayments and/or reduce the rate to a more reasonable rate? Would a mortgage moratorium be useful to us as we will need some breathing space before we sell if rates could not be negotiated down?

    Reply
    • Avatarfinder Customer Care
      JeniJune 16, 2019Staff

      Hi Alan,

      Thank you for getting in touch with Finder.

      Since the moratorium is a grace period of sorts after the loan amount has been disbursed to the borrower, I suggest that you discuss your possible options with your current lender. Now, if you’re unhappy with what they’ve provided, please seek help from a mortgage broker for your other options.

      I hope this helps.

      Thank you and have a wonderful day!

      Cheers,
      Jeni

      Reply
  2. Default Gravatar
    samuelDecember 21, 2018

    I have a interest only loan on an investment property. The bank wants now to revert to interest and principle. This doesn’t suit me. I would like to refinance to an interest only loan with an off-set account or redraw facility.

    Reply
    • Avatarfinder Customer Care
      MayDecember 21, 2018Staff

      Hi Samuel,

      Thanks for getting in touch.

      I’m sorry to hear about this change on your home loan. Well, if the principal and interest type of loan does not suit you, best to communicate this with your lender so they can offer other options for you. In case they will insist the P&I on your mortgage, you can go ahead and refinance. There are home loan refinancing options on this page where you can compare. Brands listed on the page also offer P&I, but of course, you can contact the lender first to discuss your option for interest only with offset and redraw facility.

      Alternatively, best to speak to a mortgage broker who can consider your circumstance and offer you a wide range of refinancing options.

      Hope this has helped.

      Cheers,
      May

      Reply
  3. Default Gravatar
    MarishaSeptember 28, 2018

    i want interest only as later lookin at selling and buying retirement villa house worth 750 or so hsve 150 mortgage 1 credit card maxed to 2thousamd and 1 6 tjousand who can help me find interest only home loan in wa

    Reply
    • Avatarfinder Customer Care
      JoshuaSeptember 30, 2018Staff

      Hi Marisha,

      Thanks for getting in touch with finder. I hope all is well with you. :)

      We do have a list of interest-only home loans on this page. Check the table above and compare your options. Once you found the right for you, click on the “Go to site” green button. Please review the criteria, details of the loan product, and its conditions, then contact the lender directly to discuss your loan options and eligibility. These providers should be able to help you even if you live in WA.

      I hope this helps. Should you have further questions, please don’t hesitate to reach us out again.

      Have a wonderful day!

      Cheers,
      Joshua

      Reply
  4. Default Gravatar
    MarcSeptember 18, 2017

    What is your best investment comparison rate interest only for loan of 1.14 million thanks

    Reply
    • Avatarfinder Customer Care
      RenchSeptember 20, 2017Staff

      Hi Marc,

      Thanks for your inquiry. Please note that we are not affiliated with any company we feature on our site and so we can only offer you general advice.

      Unfortunately, we can’t actually recommend a specific provider or say what is best. You can also have a look on this page to compare your options and see more info.

      Cheers,
      Rench

      Reply
  5. Default Gravatar
    KyawJuly 25, 2017

    Can I borrow moneys?

    Reply
  6. Default Gravatar
    MichaelMay 29, 2017

    1) Can i get 5 years interest only loans for construction of house & Land packages for Residential homes for investment purposes.
    2) Also what is the best rate for this type of loan

    Reply
    • Avatarfinder Customer Care
      DeeMay 30, 2017Staff

      Hi Michael,

      Thanks for your question.

      Interest-only periods generally last for 5 years and you can use them for owner-occupier of investment purposes.

      In the above page, the lowest comparison rate that I can see is 3.72%. Kindly note that the comparison rate takes into account some of the fees and charges of a home loan to give you a more accurate representation of a loan’s interest rate once the costs are taken into account.

      If you need assistance in finding the best option for your situation, you may also get in touch with a mortgage broker by filling out our online form above.

      Cheers,
      Anndy

      Reply
  7. Default Gravatar
    tomApril 2, 2017

    With interest only loans, can you make lump sum payment (for example if you inherited some money) into the loan to reduce the monthly interest payments or do the interest only payments relate to the loan amount for a fixed term?

    Reply
    • Avatarfinder Customer Care
      MayApril 2, 2017Staff

      Hi Tom,

      Thank you for your question and for contacting finder.com.au – we are a financial comparison website and general information service we are not mortgage specialists so can only offer general advice.

      That would depend on the lender you go with and the term of payments you have with them. So it’s best that you contact the lender directly to confirm if you can make a lump sum payment and how they would treat such payment.

      Cheers,
      May

      Reply
  8. Default Gravatar
    LyndaJune 15, 2015

    Can a line of credit account be secured against anything else but a home mortgage, e.g. secured against your super fund?

    Reply
    • Default Gravatar
      JodieJune 15, 2015

      Hi Lynda,

      Thank you for contacting finder.com.au, a financial comparison website.

      There are line of credit loans available as a personal loan rather than a home loan, please visit this page to find out more, in terms of home loans it would be best to speak to a lender directly as they each have their own lending criteria.

      There is a selection of line of credit home loans available from different lenders that you can contact to discuss your needs.

      Regards
      Jodie

      Reply
  9. Default Gravatar
    rosemaryMay 14, 2015

    do you have interest only home loans

    Reply
    • Avatarfinder Customer Care
      MarcMay 14, 2015Staff

      Hi Rosemary,
      thanks for the question.

      This page compares a range of interest only home loans which you can enquire with the lender directly for more information.

      Cheers,
      Marc.

      Reply
  10. Default Gravatar
    AntonioMay 7, 2015

    I’d like to know the best interest rate for interest only loan, for a period of 3 years. Cheers.

    Reply
    • Default Gravatar
      JodieMay 12, 2015

      Hi Antonio,

      Thank you for your question.

      You have come through to finder.com.au, a financial comparison website, please use the above table with your loan details to see what current interest rates are offered for a 3 year fixed rate loan of the amount you are wanting to borrow.

      Regards
      Jodie

      Reply
Ask a question
Go to site