Services Calculator Blog Book a Call Contact
Mortgage Guides & Insights

The BAMA Loans Blog

Plain-English guides on home loans, refinancing, borrowing power and property finance in Australia — written by Sydney mortgage broker Bala Malvatu.

First Home Buyers

First Home Buyer Guide 2026 (Sydney)

Deposit requirements, the First Home Guarantee, LMI waivers and the step-by-step process for buying your first home in Sydney.

Borrowing Capacity

How Much Can I Borrow? Borrowing Power Explained

How lenders calculate borrowing capacity using income, HEM, the APRA serviceability buffer and existing debts.

Refinancing

Refinancing in 2026: When Switching Lenders Actually Saves You Money

When refinancing is worth it, the real costs involved, and how to work out your break-even point.

Self-Employed

Self-Employed Home Loans: Getting Approved Without Payslips

How lenders assess self-employed income, low-doc and alt-doc options, and what documents you actually need.

Investment Property

Investment Property Loans: Interest-Only vs Principal & Interest

How each repayment type affects cash flow, total interest paid, and your negative gearing position.

Car & Commercial

Novated Lease vs Car Loan: Which Actually Costs Less in 2026

Tax treatment, GST, running costs and ownership compared for financing your next vehicle.

Local Market

Buying in Sydney's Growth Corridors: Oran Park & South-West Sydney

New estates, infrastructure, and financing considerations for new builds and off-the-plan purchases.

Rate Strategy

Fixed vs Variable Rate: What Makes Sense Right Now

How each rate type works, the trade-offs, and how a split loan can balance certainty with flexibility.

Why Use a Broker

Mortgage Broker vs Bank: Why Use a Broker in Australia

Lender choice, cost, service, and what a broker actually does for you throughout the loan process.

LMI

What Is LMI and How Can You Avoid It?

What Lenders Mortgage Insurance is, when it applies, typical costs, and how to avoid or reduce it.

Have a Question Not Covered Here?

Book a free, no-obligation call with Bala Malvatu to talk through your specific situation.

Book a Free Consultation