Was owning your own home on your bucket list this year? Do you know what you’re waiting for (and is it interest rates)?
While it’s tempting to hold off in hopes of buying with lower borrowing costs, delaying your home buying now could mean you’re missing out on well-priced properties right now. The longer you wait, the more you could risk losing.
Getting your home loan pre-approval ready is a smart way to make sure you're ready when you find the home you want (especially if it's going to auction).
Why is getting pre-approved for your home loan now a good idea?
Delaying your new home purchase in hopes of interest rates coming down could backfire.
1. Rising housing costs = missed opportunities
As home prices continue to climb in high-demand markets, waiting could mean missing out on the home you want There are also markets where prices are stabilising - but don’t just take our word for it:
“Auction clearance rates in Melbourne and Sydney have softened. ANZ Research now expects housing prices in Melbourne will fall 1.7 per cent by the end of this year.”^
2. Unpredictable interest rates
By the time rates fall, property prices could be a lot higher, offsetting any savings from waiting around.
Holding out for that 'perfect' home loan rate can actually lead to higher mortgage costs down the road, reducing your options for the type of home you can buy.
3. Increased competition from other home buyers
The housing market is competitive, especially when demand outpaces supply. Waiting too long can mean you lose out to pre-approved buyers.
Buying sooner provides you with stability, locking down your housing costs and shielding you from market volatility.
Learn more about home loans with these guides
Accessing fixed-rate loans at under 5.5% can help you lock in manageable repayments today.
If you’ve found a property you love and can manage the current mortgage repayments, don’t miss out.
Talk to our expert mortgage brokers about your pre-approval today.
What's new in home loans - February 2026
RBA rate hike: The RBA lifted the cash rate to 3.85% this month. While we had three cuts in 2025, offering some relief after thirteen rate hikes since May 2022, this new direction is worrying Australian mortgage holders.
Cheaper to borrow: A higher cash rate can lower your borrowing power - but working with your broker to find the right lender can offset the damage. Not all lenders are created equal. Ask your mortgage broker which ones really want your business.
Fixed rate ending? Now’s the time to speak with a broker at Compare Club about your next steps, so you’re not hit with a staggeringly high revert rate.
Disclaimer
This information has been prepared by Compare Club Australia Pty Ltd, authorised representative of Alternative Media Pty Ltd, AFS Licence number 486326, www.compareclub.com.au. It is of a general nature only and does not take into account your individual needs, objectives or financial situation. Before making a decision about a finance product, you should consider the relevant PDS. Compare Club receives commissions in respect of home loans it arranges for customers. #Compare Club does not compare all products in the market. ^5 in 5 with ANZ Podcast
