Transfer Home Loan – Secure Your Dream Property (2026)

Have you ever wondered if you can transfer your home loan to another property? Perhaps you're considering moving to a new home, or you've found a lucrative investment property, and you're curious about whether you can carry your existing mortgage over. This question is more common than you might think, especially in Australia's dynamic housing market. The good news is that transferring your home loan to another property is possible, but it requires careful planning and understanding of the process.

Understanding Home Loan Portability

Home loan portability refers to the ability to transfer your existing home loan to a new property without the need to close your current mortgage and open a new one. This can be a cost-effective and convenient option, especially if you have favourable terms with your current loan that you wish to retain, such as a competitive interest rate or a long-term relationship with your lender.

The concept of portability can be appealing; however, it is essential to understand that not all home loans offer this feature. Moreover, lenders have specific conditions and eligibility criteria that must be met for you to take advantage of this option. The key is to ensure that your current loan and the new property meet your lender's requirements for portability.

Current Market Information and Requirements

In 2026, the Australian home loan market continues to be competitive, with interest rates ranging between 6.49% and 12%, depending on the lender and your financial profile. To transfer your home loan to another property, you must first determine if your lender offers portability and if your loan is eligible for it.

Here are some general requirements and considerations:

• Your current home loan must include a portability feature. Check your loan agreement or contact your lender to verify this.
• You will need to sell your existing property and purchase the new one within a specific timeframe, usually within 90 days.
• The new property must be of equal or higher value than your current property.
• You must maintain the same loan balance or repay a portion of the loan if the new property is of lesser value.
• Your lender will likely require a valuation of the new property to ensure it meets lending criteria.

Steps to Transfer Your Home Loan

Transferring your home loan to another property involves several steps. Here’s a practical guide to help you navigate this process:

1. Verify Portability: Check with your lender or review your loan documents to confirm if your loan is portable.
2. Assess Your Financial Situation: Ensure you can afford the new property and meet the lender's criteria.
3. Property Valuation: Arrange for a valuation of the new property to ensure it meets the lender's requirements.
4. Sell Current Property: Finalise the sale of your existing property within the lender’s stipulated timeframe.
5. Purchase New Property: Proceed with the purchase, ensuring all paperwork aligns with the portability feature.
6. Notify Your Lender: Inform your lender about the transaction and complete any necessary documentation.
7. Finalise Transfer: Work with your lender to finalise the loan transfer and settlement.

Tips and Considerations

Before you decide to transfer your home loan, consider the following expert tips:

• Review Costs: Understand the costs involved in transferring your loan, such as valuation fees, legal fees, and any potential penalties.
• Compare Alternatives: Sometimes, refinancing your home loan might be a better option, especially if you can secure a lower interest rate with another lender.
• Consult with a Broker: A mortgage broker, like those at Esteb and Co, can provide insights from over 83 lenders and help you find the best solution tailored to your needs.
• Plan for Timing: Ensure that the sale of your existing property and purchase of the new one align to avoid gaps in financing.
• Stay Informed: Keep up with market trends and interest rates to make informed decisions about your mortgage.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I transfer my home loan to a property of lower value? It depends on your lender's policies. Generally, you may need to reduce your loan amount proportionately.
2. What happens if my loan is not portable? If your loan is not portable, you might need to refinance with a new lender or negotiate new terms with your current lender.
3. Is there a fee for transferring my home loan? Yes, there may be fees involved, such as administrative charges or valuation fees. It's important to check with your lender.
4. How long does the transfer process take? The process can take several weeks, depending on your lender's efficiency and the complexity of the transaction.
5. Can I add more funds to my loan during the transfer? Adding funds may alter the terms of your portability agreement. Discuss this with your lender to understand the implications.
6. Can Esteb and Co help with the process? Yes, our experienced brokers can guide you through the process and explore options across 83+ lenders to find the best fit for your needs.