Renovate without the
financial stress.
A new kitchen, an extra bedroom, or a full do-up: we'll help you tap your equity, structure the lending, and avoid the cost surprises. Free advice, every lender compared.
Ways to fund a renovation
There's usually more than one way to pay for it. The right one depends on your equity and the size of the job.
Top up your loan
If you've got equity, the simplest route is often a top-up on your existing mortgage, sometimes with your current bank, sometimes by moving for a better deal.
A renovation loan
For bigger structural work, the money can be released in stages as the job is done, similar to a new build, usually against a fixed-price contract.
Use your equity
If your home has grown in value, that equity can fund the work. We can tap the same valuation tools the banks use to tell you roughly how a bank will value your place.
What the bank wants to see
For a simple cosmetic update, lending is usually straightforward. For anything structural, banks will generally want quotes or a fixed-price contract, the plans and consent for the work, and often a valuation so they can see what the place will be worth once it's done.
The other big one is a contingency: a buffer for when something runs over, which it often does. We'll tell you exactly what your project needs and make sure the buffer is built in, so a surprise doesn't stall the job. Reviewing your whole mortgage at the same time can be worth it too.
Common questions
How much can I borrow to renovate?
It mostly comes down to the equity in your home and what you can comfortably service. If your place has grown in value, there's often more to work with than people expect. We'll work out a realistic number with you before you start getting quotes.
Do I use my own bank, or move to a new one?
Either can work. Sometimes a quick top-up with your current bank is simplest. Other times moving to a new lender for a sharper rate, or a cash contribution, more than covers the hassle. We compare both so you're not leaving money on the table.
Does it matter if the work is cosmetic or structural?
Yes. A new kitchen or bathroom is usually straightforward. Bigger structural work, like adding a room, often needs plans, consent and a fixed-price contract, and the money may be released in stages as the work is done, like a new build. We'll tell you which camp your project is in.
What about cost overruns?
Renovations are famous for them. Banks will usually want a contingency built in, and so do we, so a surprise doesn't stall the job. We make sure that buffer is part of the plan from the start.
Does it cost anything to talk to you?
No. Our advice is free because the lender pays us, not you. We'll only suggest a move if it genuinely leaves you better off.
Thinking about a renovation?
Book a free chat and we'll work out what you can borrow, how to structure it, and the smartest way to fund the job.
Book your free discovery call