This guide breaks down the basics in simple terms so you can make a confident and informed decision.
What is an interest-only home loan?
An interest-only home loan is a loan where your repayments cover only the interest for a set period, usually between five and ten years. During this time, you are not paying off the amount you originally borrowed. The balance of your loan stays the same until the interest-only period ends.
Once that period finishes, your loan will switch to principal and interest repayments, which means you start paying the loan amount as well as the interest. This usually results in higher repayments.
How does an interest-only loan work?
During the interest-only period:
Your repayments cover the interest charged each month. The loan amount does not decrease.
After the interest-only period ends:
Your repayments increase because you begin paying back both the loan amount and the interest. These higher repayments can sometimes come as a surprise if you have not planned for them.
Pros and cons of interest-only loans
PROS
- Lower repayments at the start
You pay less during the interest-only period, which can help you manage your budget or free up money for other commitments. - Useful for investors
Investors may benefit from tax deductions on interest expenses, depending on their situation. - More flexibility with cash flow
Lower initial payments can make it easier to manage irregular income or other financial responsibilities. - Ability to afford a higher-value property
Lower repayments can sometimes allow borrowers to buy a more expensive property than they could with full principal and interest repayments. If the property grows in value, the long-term gain may be significant.
CONS
- Higher costs over the life of the loan
Interest only loans often have higher interest rates, which can make the total cost of the loan more expensive. - Your loan amount does not reduce
Because you are not paying down the principal, your overall debt stays the same during the interest only years. - Repayments increase
- Slower equity growth
Since the loan balance does not decrease, you do not build equity unless your property value rises. -
- Property investors who want flexibility while focusing on rental income or future capital growth
- Borrowers with seasonal or variable income
- Individuals who have a clear financial plan and can manage future repayment increases
- People purchasing multiple properties as part of a long-term investment strategy
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- First-time buyers without a long-term financial plan
- Borrowers who may struggle when repayments increase later
- Individuals who prefer to reduce their debt steadily
- Anyone with limited financial stability or savings buffer
Once the loan switches to principal and interest, the repayments can rise sharply. This may be difficult to manage without planning ahead.
Who can benefit from interest-only loans?
Interest only loans may suit:
Interest only loans may not be ideal for:
Careful planning is essential when taking on an interest only loan. Without proper preparation, the higher repayments later can become difficult to manage.
Switching from principal to interest
Many borrowers feel pressure when their interest-only period ends. Here are simple ways to make the transition smoother:
Start increasing repayments early
If you know your repayments will rise in the future, gradually increase what you pay now. Even a small increase each month can help you adjust.
Check how much the increase will be
Ask your lender or broker to estimate your future repayments. This helps you plan your budget ahead of time.
Make extra repayments where possible
If your loan allows it, paying a little extra now can reduce future stress and help you get used to the higher repayment amount.
Shape your financial future
Interest-only home loans can be helpful for some borrowers, but they are not the best choice for everyone. Understanding the full picture is the key to choosing the right path.
At Manage Your Loans, we redefine the lending experience by putting you at the centre of every decision. Our team gives you the information and support you need to feel confident, informed and in control from the very beginning.
We are here to help you understand your options, make decisions that suit your goals and explore possibilities you might not have considered.
Ready to take charge of your finances and explore new opportunities?