Getting your own home is an exciting time. It's a big step and will take you on quite a journey. Whether you’re buying your first home, or just making your next move, owning a home is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make. So it’s important you make the right decisions and understand how to get a home loan. We're here to support you as you go. There are five major stages in the home loan process.
Find out if Keystart is right for you.
We're a little different here at Keystart. We focus on helping people get started on home ownership. We want you to be successful in managing a home loan. So we have a few simple requirements to be eligible for a Keystart loan. You can find out if you qualify in five minutes. We call this pre-qualification. When you have finished pre-qualification, we'll let you know if you may be eligible and the amount you may be able to borrow. You can then continue on to start an application.
We have a range of home loan options that may be suitable for you. Or you may find a better solution at another lender. Take the time to consider all your options, and call us if you want to chat or have any questions.
So - you've submitted your application. What happens next? We'll review and assess your application and will let you know if we need any further information. If your application meets Keystart’s lending requirements, you'll be issued with a conditional approval letter. Then you'll know how much you can borrow, so you can start looking for a home!
We'll also send you an invitation to register for our application tracker, an online tool to keep you update and informed as you move through your application. Keep an eye on your inbox for your registration email.
Remember - it's important to get conditional approval before making an offer or put a deposit on building a home.
This is a great time to consider what you really want (or need!) for your new home. Now may be the perfect time to consider a unit rather than a house. Perhaps you can start off with a two-bedroom home rather than three. Take a moment to look closely at your budget and consider what you can comfortably afford. Your conditional approval will include the required monthly repayment for the amount you may be able to borrow. Check how affordable that will be for you.
So, you've made a successful offer on a property. Exciting times! Once all your conditional approval conditions have been met, we will move your loan into the formal approval stage.
Your loan documents will be sent to you to review, sign and return to Keystart. These documents formalise the contract between you and Keystart. It's important you take the time to read these documents carefully. If you have any questions about the contract or other documents, you should obtain independent legal advice.
Next, we'll get your application ready for settlement.
Settlement is the official process of transferring ownership from the seller to the buyer.
When you receive your loan and mortgage documents, we'll liaise with your settlement agent to arrange settlement. A date will be set to transfer the property into your name. Once settlement has occurred you can move into your new home!
We aim to support you through your home loan journey. The application process is just the beginning. Now you will begin to manage your home loan.
Once you have moved in and are enjoying your new home, grab a coffee and explore the resources on this site. Read our guides and blog stories to keep up to date. Register for the Client Portal.
Keystart is a transitional lender. We're here to help you get started, but we encourage you to move on to another lender when you are in a position to do so. You may wish to create a 5-10 year plan for your home loan. Think about your long term goals and key an eye on the property market.
We recommend that you seek independent financial advice prior to making any decisions about your financial needs.
By giving us a few basic details, we can tell you how much you may be able to borrow.
How much can I borrow?