What Is a Redraw Facility and How Can It Benefit Your Mortgage?

A redraw facility is a feature offered by many mortgage lenders that allows borrowers to make additional repayments on their home loan and then access those funds later if needed. This type of facility can provide flexibility and potential cost savings for homeowners. In this article, we will explore what a redraw facility is, how it works, and the benefits it can offer to those with a mortgage.

Understanding a Redraw Facility

A redraw facility is essentially a feature that enables borrowers to make extra payments on their mortgage, over and above the required minimum repayments. These additional funds are then held in a separate account linked to the loan, known as the redraw facility. Borrowers can typically access these extra funds at any time, subject to certain conditions set by the lender.

How Does a Redraw Facility Work?

When a borrower makes extra payments on their mortgage, these funds are not directly reducing the loan balance. Instead, they are credited to the redraw facility account. The loan balance remains the same, but the available funds in the redraw facility increase. Borrowers can then choose to access these funds if needed, such as for unexpected expenses or financial emergencies.

Benefits of a Redraw Facility

There are several benefits to using a redraw facility as part of your mortgage:

  • Flexibility: A redraw facility provides borrowers with the flexibility to make extra repayments when they can afford to do so, while still being able to access those funds if needed in the future.
  • Cost savings: By making extra repayments into the redraw facility, borrowers can potentially save on interest costs over the life of the loan. This is because the additional funds reduce the outstanding balance on which interest is calculated.
  • Emergency funds: The redraw facility can serve as a source of emergency funds for unexpected expenses, without the need to apply for a separate loan or credit facility.
  • Reduced loan term: Making extra repayments through the redraw facility can help borrowers pay off their mortgage sooner, potentially saving thousands of dollars in interest payments.

Considerations When Using a Redraw Facility

While a redraw facility can offer many benefits, there are some important considerations to keep in mind:

  • Redraw fees: Some lenders may charge a fee each time you access funds from the redraw facility. It’s important to be aware of any fees or charges associated with using this feature.
  • Minimum redraw amounts: Lenders may have a minimum amount that you can redraw at any one time. Check the terms and conditions of your loan to understand these requirements.
  • Impact on loan terms: Redrawing funds from the facility may extend the term of your loan or affect the repayment schedule. It’s essential to understand how accessing the redraw facility can impact your overall mortgage.

Conclusion

A redraw facility can be a valuable feature for homeowners looking to manage their mortgage more effectively. By making additional repayments and having the flexibility to access those funds when needed, borrowers can potentially save money on interest costs and pay off their loan sooner. However, it’s essential to understand the terms and conditions of the redraw facility and consider any potential fees or impacts on your loan before utilizing this feature. Overall, a redraw facility can provide financial flexibility and peace of mind for homeowners with a mortgage.