A swing loan, also known as a bridging loan, is a short-term financing option designed to provide immediate funds to cover the gap between the purchase of a new property and the sale of an existing one. It allows homeowners and property investors to secure a new property quickly without waiting for their current property to sell. Swing loans are typically secured against the borrower’s current property or the new property being purchased and are repaid once the existing property is sold or long-term financing is secured.
Advantages of swing loans
Quick access to funds
Swing loans provide fast access to funds, allowing borrowers to secure new property and take advantage of time-sensitive opportunities quickly.
Financial flexibility
These loans offer financial flexibility by allowing borrowers to move forward with new property purchases without first selling their existing property.
Avoiding delays
Swing loans help avoid delays in property transactions, ensuring a smoother and more efficient buying process.
Customisable terms
Swing loans often come with customisable terms, including the option to repay the loan once the existing property is sold.
Competitive advantage
Access to a swing loan can give buyers a competitive advantage in the property market, enabling them to make solid and non-contingent offers on new properties.
Types of swing loans
Closed swing loans
Closed swing loans have a set end date by which the loan must be repaid. These loans suit borrowers with a clear exit strategy, such as a confirmed sale date for their existing property.
Open swing loans
Open swing loans are more flexible and do not have a fixed repayment date. They are suitable for borrowers who have not yet secured a buyer for their existing property but need funds to purchase a new property.
Critical components of a swing loan
Loan amount
The loan amount is the total amount borrowed and is usually based on the equity in the borrower’s existing property or the value of the new property being purchased.
Interest rate
Swing loans typically have higher interest rates than traditional mortgages due to their short-term nature and higher risk.
Loan term
The loan term for swing loans is usually short, ranging from a few weeks to two years. The exact term depends on the borrower’s needs and the lender’s policies.
Repayment terms
Repayment terms for swing loans can vary. Some loans require monthly interest payments, while others allow the interest to be rolled up and paid at the end of the loan term.
Security
Swing loans are secured against the borrower’s existing property or the new property being purchased. This collateral reduces the lender’s risk and determines the loan amount available.
Exit strategy
An exit strategy is a plan for repaying the swing loan, typically involving selling the existing property or securing long-term financing.
Applications for swing loans
Property purchase
Swing loans are commonly used to finance the purchase of new property while awaiting the sale of an existing property, ensuring a seamless transition.
Swing loan for renovation and refurbishment
Property investors and developers use swing loans to fund renovations and refurbishments, adding value to properties before selling or refinancing.
Auction purchases
Swing loans are ideal for auction purchases, where quick access to funds is required to secure the property quickly.
Business opportunities
Businesses use swing loans to take advantage of time-sensitive opportunities, such as acquiring new premises or expanding operations.
Financial emergencies
Swing loans provide immediate funds to cover urgent expenses or liabilities in financial emergencies.
Get started
Swing loans provide quick and flexible financing solutions for homeowners and property investors looking to purchase new property while awaiting the sale of an existing one. Understanding the key components, benefits, and potential drawbacks of swing loans is essential for making informed financial decisions. Whether for property purchases, renovations, or business opportunities, swing loans play a vital role in managing short-term financial needs.
Learn more
For more information on swing loans and their implications, visit the following resources:
- Fast bridging loans: accelerating property transactions
- Swing loans: A flexible financing solution for retirees
- ASIC Moneysmart: Home Loans