Equity release refinancing is a common path for investors building beyond their first property. Instead of saving for a new deposit from scratch, you draw on the value you've already built. The mechanics matter, and so does the order you do them in.
What you need to know.
How equity release works
If your property is worth $800K and you owe $400K, you have $400K in equity. Most lenders will let you access equity up to 80% LVR, which in this case would be $240K. That can become the deposit for your next purchase.
Investor Tip · How I Scaled
Rather than save another deposit from scratch, I leveraged capital growth in my existing properties. It let me move faster. The catch... you have to be able to service the additional debt.
Rebecca
The refinancing costs
Equity release refinancing involves discharge fees from your current lender, application fees with the new lender, and a property valuation. I'll model the full cost for you.
Tax implications of the structure
How you draw down and use equity has tax implications, particularly if the existing property is your home. I'll point you toward your accountant or a financial adviser for that piece. It sits outside what a broker can advise on.
Making sure serviceability works for both loans
You'll be servicing two loans after the purchase. I'll model your serviceability across both before we apply for anything.
Know Your Numbers
What could you actually borrow?
Run your real numbers before we speak. Live as you type, no commitment, no credit check.
RBA rate update · 6 May 2026 applied
1 · What are you looking to do?
2 · Your details
3 · Properties you already own
4 · Core debts
Banks assess your limit, not your balance, at 3.8% of the limit per month, even if you pay it off each cycle.
Combined monthly repayments on personal and vehicle loans.
5 · Living expenses
I'll use average household living costs unless you enter your own.
Estimate only. Not a credit offer or pre-qualification. Subject to lender criteria, credit assessment, and a full needs analysis. Rental income and existing lending may be assessed differently by different lenders. Get in touch for advice tailored to your situation.
Equity in your existing property is one of the more useful assets you have. The right refinancing structure means the next deposit doesn't have to come from years of additional saving... subject to lender criteria and your individual circumstances.
Written & reviewed by
Rebecca Tickner
Finance Broker, Maxfin · Diploma of Finance & Mortgage Broking Management (FNS50322) · ASIC Credit Rep 571611 · MFAA Member
I built a seven-property portfolio with my partner. I structure clients' finance the same way I run mine.
More about RebeccaInvestor Playbooks
Other investment loan situations.
Different investor, different structure. Pick whichever sounds most like you for the deeper read.