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HSBC Home Loan Review: A Comprehensive Guide for First Homebuyers in Australia

There’s more to it than you think

Calculate how your deposit translates to your home price and monthly payment.

If you’re a first homebuyer in Australia exploring your mortgage options, chances are you’ve come across HSBC home loans. But how do they really stack up against the competition? In this in-depth review, we’ll unpack everything you need to know about HSBC home loans in Australia. We’ll also compare them to other banks, look at real customer reviews, discuss the pros and cons, and answer all your frequently asked questions.

HSBC home loans

Top 5 Things HSBC Are Good At

#1 - Competitive Interest Rates

HSBC consistently offers some of the lowest interest rates on both fixed and variable home loans in Australia. This can save borrowers thousands of dollars over the life of their loan. Their rates are especially attractive for borrowers with high credit scores and those with larger deposits (typically 20% or more).

#2 - Global Banking Services

As a major international bank, HSBC provides seamless cross-border banking services. If you work abroad, receive foreign income, or own overseas property, HSBC’s global account linking and currency transfer capabilities are extremely valuable.

Customers benefit from reduced transfer fees, making international transactions more cost-effective. Additionally, the Global-View feature through HSBC online banking allows users to manage multiple accounts across countries seamlessly.

#3 - Strong Customer Service for Premier Clients

HSBC Premier offers a relationship-managed banking experience. Customers who qualify (usually with a combined home loan or deposit balance over $500,000) receive priority service, a dedicated relationship manager, and financial advice.

HSBC Australia offers a 24/7 Premier customer service line for round-the-clock support. Customers can access a global emergency cash service when travelling. The bank also provides preferential rates and waives certain fees for eligible clients.

#4 - Green Home Loan Options

HSBC supports sustainable homeownership with their Green Home Loan product. Buyers purchasing energy-efficient homes or undertaking green renovations may be eligible for rate discounts or cashback offers.

Enjoy up to 0.25% p.a. rate discount on eligible home loans. This offer is designed for properties with a 7-star NatHERS rating or equivalent. It supports environmentally responsible living through energy-efficient housing.

#5 - Fully Featured Online Banking

HSBC’s mobile app and online banking platform are robust and user-friendly. From mobile cheque deposits to in-app chat support and digital redraws, the technology stack supports modern borrowers’ expectations.

Notable features:

  • Loan repayment calculators
  • Online redraw and offset access
  • Global account visibility
  • Secure document upload

Top 5 Things HSBC Aren't So Good At

5 Things HSBC aren't so good at
What are some of the things HSBC is not so good at?

#1 - Strict Eligibility Criteria

HSBC home loan applications are subject to stricter underwriting standards compared to many other lenders. To qualify, borrowers typically need a strong credit history, a minimum 20% deposit (although Lenders Mortgage Insurance options are available for those with smaller deposits), and evidence of full-time employment or a stable income history. These requirements are designed to ensure that applicants have the financial stability to manage their loan obligations.

However, these tighter criteria can present challenges for certain borrowers. Casual workers, self-employed applicants, and buyers with smaller deposits may find it more difficult to secure approval. While HSBC offers competitive products, its conservative lending approach means it’s best suited for financially secure borrowers.

#2 - Limited Physical Branch Network in Australia

HSBC has a limited branch network in Australia, with around 30 locations, primarily in major cities such as Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Adelaide. If you live in a regional or rural area, access to in-person support may be limited, which could be a drawback for those who prefer face-to-face banking services.

In comparison, Commonwealth Bank has approximately 1,000 branches across the country, and ANZ operates around 500, offering much broader coverage. This makes other banks potentially more convenient for customers outside metropolitan areas.

#3 - Slow Application Processing

Compared to some other lenders and mortgage brokers, HSBC can be slower when it comes to processing home loan applications. Their more thorough and conservative approach to assessing applications often involves detailed document checks and stricter internal procedures, which can add to the turnaround time.

This slower processing is especially noticeable during peak lending periods, such as when interest rates drop or property markets heat up. Delays can also occur if the application is missing required documents or if there are complexities in the borrower’s financial situation. As a result, ensure that all paperwork is accurate and complete to help avoid unnecessary delays.

#4 - Less Competitive for Cashback Offers

While many competing lenders regularly offer cashback incentives ranging from $2,000 to $4,000 to attract new customers, HSBC rarely takes part in these promotions. This absence of upfront incentives can be a disadvantage for borrowers who are looking to maximise immediate financial benefits when switching or applying for a home loan.

Instead of relying on cash offers, HSBC tends to focus on long-term value through competitive rates and premium services. While this may appeal to financially secure borrowers seeking stability and service, it may not be as attractive to those prioritising short-term savings.

#5 - Not as Flexible with Loan Structures

Some home loan types and structures, such as interest-only periods or loans involving complex company or trust arrangements, may not be available through HSBC. Even when these options are offered, they often come with stricter eligibility requirements and more detailed assessments.

This can limit flexibility for investors, business owners, or borrowers with non-standard financial setups. Those needing specialised loan features may find more tailored solutions with lenders that have broader product offerings or more lenient policies.

What Are the Different Home Loan Products HSBC Offers?

Home Value Loan HSBC

The HSBC Home Value Loan is a straightforward, low-fee mortgage option designed for borrowers seeking competitive rates without additional features. It’s ideal for owner-occupiers and investors who prioritise simplicity and cost-effectiveness.

Features:

  • Competitive Variable Interest Rate – As of 26 May 2025, the owner-occupier principal and interest rate for loans with a Loan-to-Value Ratio (LVR) of 60% or less is 5.74% p.a., with a comparison rate of 5.75% p.a.
  • No Ongoing Fees – The loan does not charge monthly or annual service fees, helping to minimise long-term costs.
  • Flexible Repayment Options – Borrowers can make unlimited extra repayments without incurring penalties, allowing for faster loan payoff.
  • Free Online Redraw Facility – Access additional repayments through a free online redraw facility, providing flexibility in managing funds.
  • Loan Amount and Term – Loan amounts range from $50,000 to $15,000,000, with terms of up to 30 years.
  • Loan-to-Value Ratio (LVR) – Borrow up to 80% of the property’s value without Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI) and up to 90% with LMI, subject to HSBC’s lending criteria.
Fixed rate

This home loan is ideal for borrowers who want the certainty of fixed repayments and protection against interest rate rises for a set period.

Features:

  • Fixed terms from 1 to 5 years – You can choose a fixed interest rate period of 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 years, providing flexibility to suit your financial plans and budget stability needs.
  • Option to split loan with a variable portion – HSBC allows you to split your loan between fixed and variable interest rate components. This gives you the benefit of rate certainty on one portion of your loan while still enjoying the flexibility of a variable loan on the other.
  • Allows extra repayments (capped annually) – During the fixed rate term, you are allowed to make up to $10,000 in additional repayments per year without incurring early repayment fees. This feature helps you reduce your principal faster, even during a fixed rate period.
  • Free online redraw on variable portion – If you choose to split your loan and make extra repayments on the variable portion, you can access those funds through a free online redraw facility.
  • Predictable repayments – Your monthly repayments remain the same throughout the fixed term, making it easier to budget and plan your finances.
  • No annual fee – The HSBC Fixed Rate Home Loan does not charge an annual service fee, which helps you save on ongoing costs.
  • Reverts to variable rate after fixed term – Once your fixed rate period ends, your loan will automatically switch to HSBC’s standard variable rate unless you renegotiate or refinance.
  • Available for owner-occupiers and investors – This product is suitable for both people buying a home to live in and for property investors.

The HSBC Home Smart Loan is a flexible mortgage product that combines the benefits of a variable rate home loan with features typically associated with an equity loan. It’s designed for borrowers who want to manage their finances more effectively by integrating their loan with everyday banking.

Features:

  • Integrated Loan and Banking Account – The Home Smart Loan enables you to consolidate your income, savings, and loan into a single account, effectively functioning as a one-stop facility. This integration helps reduce the interest charged on your loan by offsetting your daily balances.
  • Unlimited Free Redraws – You can make unlimited additional repayments and access those funds at any time through free redraws, providing flexibility to manage your finances.
  • Visa Debit Card Access – The loan includes a Visa Debit card, enabling you to make free local transactions and access your available funds directly from your home loan account.
  • Flexible Repayment Options – You have the option to make principal and interest repayments, with the ability to make extra repayments at any time without penalty, helping you pay off your loan faster.
  • Loan Amount and Term – Borrowers can apply for loan amounts ranging from $50,000 to $15 million, with loan terms of up to 30 years.
  • Loan-to-Value Ratio (LVR) – You can borrow up to 80% of the property’s value without Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI) and up to 90% with LMI, subject to HSBC’s lending criteria.
  • Home Loan Package – The Home Smart Loan is eligible for HSBC’s Home Loan Package, which, for an annual fee of $390, offers benefits such as discounted interest rates and waived establishment, settlement, and valuation fees.
  • Interest Rates – As of May 26, 2025, the interest rate for owner-occupiers with a loan-to-value ratio (LVR) of 80% or less is 5.99% per annum, with a comparison rate of 6.36% per annum. For LVRs above 80%, the interest rate is 6.29% p.a., with a comparison rate of 6.66% p.a.
  • Support from a Home Loan Manager – HSBC provides access to a dedicated Home Loan Manager to assist you throughout the loan application and management process. 
Standard Variable

The HSBC Standard Variable Rate Home Loan is designed for borrowers seeking flexibility, featuring a 100% offset account and the ability to make unlimited extra repayments. It’s suitable for owner-occupiers, investors, and those looking to refinance or consolidate debts.

Features:

  • Offset Account – This loan includes a 100% offset account, allowing you to reduce the interest charged by offsetting your loan balance with your savings.
  • Unlimited Extra Repayments – You can make additional repayments at any time without incurring penalties, helping you pay off your loan faster.
  • Free Redraw Facility – Access your extra repayments through a free redraw facility, providing flexibility to manage your finances.
  • Flexible Repayment Options – Choose between principal and interest or interest-only repayments, with the ability to make payments weekly, fortnightly, or monthly.
  • Loan Amount and Term – Borrow between $50,000 and $15 million, with loan terms of up to 30 years.
  • Loan-to-Value Ratio (LVR) – Borrow up to 80% of the property’s value without Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI) and up to 90% with LMI, subject to HSBC’s lending criteria.
  • Interest Rates – As of May 26, 2025, the interest rate for owner-occupiers with a loan-to-value ratio (LVR) of 60% or less is 5.89% per annum, with a comparison rate of 6.26% per annum.
  • Support from a Home Loan Manager – HSBC provides access to a dedicated Home Loan Manager to assist you throughout the loan application and management process.
HSBC Home Equity Loan

The HSBC Home Equity Loan is a flexible line of credit designed for borrowers who want to access the equity in their residential property. It is ideal for those seeking interest-only repayments, flexible access to funds, and the ability to manage variable income or expenses.

Features:

  • Line of Credit Structure – The loan operates as a line of credit, allowing you to borrow funds up to your approved limit and access them as needed.
  • Interest-Only Repayments – You can make interest-only repayments, providing flexibility in managing your cash flow.
  • Loan Amount and Term – Borrowers can apply for loan amounts between $20,000 and $1 million, with no minimum or maximum loan term.
  • Loan-to-Value Ratio (LVR) – You can borrow up to 80% of the property’s value, subject to HSBC’s lending criteria.
  • Unlimited Additional Repayments and Free Redraws – Make unlimited additional repayments and access those funds at any time through free redraws.
  • Visa Debit Card Access – The loan includes a Visa Debit card, enabling you to access your available funds directly from your home loan account.
  • No Ongoing Fees – There are no monthly service, loan establishment, or settlement fees associated with this loan.
  • Interest Rates – As of May 26, 2025, the interest rate for owner-occupiers with a loan-to-value ratio (LVR) of 80% or less is 7.12% per annum.
Package home loan

The HSBC Home Loan Package is designed for borrowers seeking to streamline their mortgage with added benefits and cost savings. By consolidating your home loan with this package, you can access discounted interest rates and reduced fees across various HSBC home loan products.

Features:

  • Annual Package Fee – For an annual fee of $390, the package offers significant savings on various fees and charges.
  • Interest Rate Discounts – Eligible home loans under the package receive discounted interest rates, helping you reduce your overall borrowing costs.
  • Fee Waivers – The package waives several standard fees, including establishment, settlement, and standard valuation fees, leading to upfront cost savings.
  • Dedicated Home Loan Manager – Benefit from personalised support with access to a dedicated Home Loan Manager to guide you through the loan process.
  • Eligibility Criteria – To qualify, you must have a minimum borrowing amount of $150,000. The annual package fee is deducted from the loan proceeds at settlement and charged to the loan on the first business day of the loan anniversary month.
  • Applicable Loan Products – The package is available with several HSBC home loan products, including:
    • Standard Variable Rate Home Loan
    • Fixed Rate Home Loan
    • Home Smart Loan
    • Home Equity Loan 

What Documents Does HSBC Need For A Home Loan?

What documents does HSBC require

When applying for a home loan with HSBC Australia, it’s essential to have the necessary documentation ready to ensure a smooth application process. Below is a comprehensive list of the documents typically required:

Personal Identification & Residency

  • Primary Identification: A valid passport or Australian driver’s licence.
  • Proof of Residency: Recent utility bills or bank statements confirming your address.

Income Verification

  • Employed Applicants:
    • Recent payslips (usually the last two).
    • Most recent PAYG summary or group certificate.
    • Bank statements for the past three months.
  • Self-Employed Applicants:
    • Tax returns for the last two years.
    • Notice of Assessment from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO).
    • Business financial statements for the last two years.

Property Details

  • Contract of Sale: For purchasing a property.
  • Council Rates Notice: For the property being purchased or refinanced.
  • Property Valuation: HSBC may arrange this; however, additional valuations might be required depending on the loan type.

Financial Commitments

  • Existing Loan Statements: For current mortgages or personal loans.
  • Credit Card Statements: For the past three months.
  • Other Liabilities: Details of any other debts or financial obligations.

Additional Documents (If Applicable)

  • First Home Buyer Documents: Eligibility for first home buyer grants or schemes.
  • Guarantor Information: If someone is guaranteeing your loan, their identification and financial details will be required.
  • Foreign Income Documents: If you earn income from overseas, provide relevant documentation.

How Much Can I Borrow From HSBC?

Borrowing Capacity
How much you can borrow from HSBC depends on your income, expenses, existing debts, and deposit.

Scenario 1: Single Applicant with Moderate Income and Expenses

  • Household Income: $100,000
  • Existing Debts: $5,000 credit card
  • Deposit: 20%
  • Monthly Expenses: $3,000
  • Dependants: 0
  • Estimated Borrowing Power: $400,000

Scenario 2: Family Household with Higher Income and Dependants

  • Household Income: $150,000
  • Existing Debts: None
  • Deposit: 10%
  • Monthly Expenses: $2,500
  • Dependants: 2
  • Estimated Borrowing Power: $674,000

These are just examples. Use HSBC’s borrowing calculator or speak to a broker for a tailored estimate.

How Long Do HSBC Loans Take to Approve?

When applying for a home loan with HSBC Australia, the time it takes to receive approval and reach settlement can vary based on your financial circumstances and the completeness of your application. Below is a typical timeline for the different stages of the loan process:

Stage

Timeframe

Pre-Approval

3–5 business days

Formal Approval

7–14 business days

Settlement

4–6 weeks

Tips for faster approval:

  • Submit all documents at once
  • Get a pre-approval before house hunting
  • Use a broker to manage communication

What Else Does HSBC Offer?

What else does HSBC offer
HSBC also offers foreign currency accounts

In addition to home loans, HSBC Australia provides a wide range of financial products and services to meet your everyday banking, investment, and insurance needs—whether you’re living locally or managing finances globally.

Savings and Transaction Accounts

HSBC offers a variety of everyday bank accounts designed to help you manage your money with ease. These include:

  • Day-to-day transaction accounts with debit card access, mobile payments, and online banking.
  • High-interest savings accounts, such as the HSBC Bonus Savings Account, reward you for regular saving habits.
  • Joint accounts and student banking options tailored to different life stages.

Foreign Currency Accounts

Ideal for frequent travellers or those with global financial commitments, HSBC’s foreign currency accounts let you:

  • Hold funds in multiple currencies.
  • Make international transfers easily.
  • Avoid unnecessary conversion fees.
  • Access competitive exchange rates.

These accounts are useful for expatriates, overseas investors, or Australians supporting family abroad.

Personal and Car Loans

HSBC provides unsecured personal loans and specific car loans with flexible terms and competitive fixed interest rates. These loans can be used for:

  • Buying a new or used car.
  • Consolidating existing debts.
  • Funding travel, education, or major life events.

Repayments can be tailored to weekly, fortnightly, or monthly schedules.

Investment Products

HSBC offers a suite of investment services for customers looking to grow their wealth, including:

  • Term deposits with fixed interest returns over a set period.
  • Managed funds and access to international markets.
  • Financial planning tools and advisory services for long-term portfolio building.

These are geared toward both beginner investors and experienced clients.

Insurance Options

Through partnerships, HSBC provides a range of insurance products to help protect your family, belongings, and travel plans:

  • Home and contents insurance to protect your property and valuables.
  • Life insurance to provide financial support to your loved ones.
  • Travel insurance with coverage for cancellations, medical expenses, and lost luggage.

You can tailor your insurance policies to suit your lifestyle and budget.

HSBC Global Money Account

This multi-currency account is designed for international citizens and travellers. With the HSBC Global Money Account, you can:

  • Hold and convert up to 10 foreign currencies in one account.
  • Send and receive international payments with low FX fees.
  • Use your HSBC Everyday Global Debit Card for purchases in local currencies worldwide.
  • Track spending and manage your account via the HSBC mobile app.

This product is especially useful for digital nomads, expats, and frequent travellers who need seamless global banking.

What Are Some HSBC Home Loan Customer Reviews?

HSBC Customer Reviews

HSBC Australia receives a mix of customer reviews, reflecting both strengths in certain areas and challenges in others. Here’s a balanced overview based on recent feedback:

Positive Feedback

Competitive Interest Rates – HSBC’s home loan products are often praised for their competitive rates, especially for borrowers with substantial deposits. 

Global Banking Services – Customers appreciate HSBC’s international banking capabilities, such as the Global Money Account, which allows holding multiple currencies and making international payments with low fees. This is particularly beneficial for expatriates and frequent travellers.

Areas of Concern

Customer Service Challenges – Some customers have reported difficulties with HSBC’s customer service, citing issues such as delayed responses and limited support channels. 

Digital Banking Experience – Feedback indicates that HSBC’s online and mobile banking platforms may not be as user-friendly or reliable as those of other banks. Users have reported issues with app functionality and online banking features.

Fraud Protection Concerns – HSBC has faced scrutiny over its fraud prevention measures. The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) filed a lawsuit against HSBC Australia, alleging inadequate fraud controls that led to customers losing a collective $23 million over five years. 

While HSBC offers attractive features like competitive loan rates and robust international banking services, potential customers should be aware of reported challenges in customer service, digital banking experience, and fraud protection. It’s advisable to consider these factors and conduct thorough research or consult with a financial advisor before choosing HSBC for your banking needs.

Is HSBC An Ethical Australian Bank?

Is HSBC an Ethical Bank

HSBC Australia’s ethical standing is a subject of both commendation and criticism, reflecting a complex balance between its sustainability initiatives and regulatory challenges.

Sustainability and Ethical Initiatives

HSBC has made significant commitments to environmental sustainability and responsible finance:

  • Sustainable Finance Commitment: The bank aims to provide between USD 750 billion and USD 1 trillion in sustainable finance and investment by 2030 to support the transition to a net-zero economy.
  • Green Financial Products: HSBC offers green loans and sustainability-linked loans to a broader range of commercial banking clients, supporting projects that contribute to environmental objectives.
  • Blue Carbon Projects: The bank has funded projects aimed at increasing the supply of initiatives eligible to generate Australian Carbon Credit Units under the blue carbon methodology, supporting marine ecosystem restoration.
  • Sustainability-Linked Loans: HSBC has supported companies like Ramsay Health Care with sustainability-linked loans that align financing with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) strategies. 

Ethical Concerns and Regulatory Challenges

Despite these initiatives, HSBC Australia has faced several ethical and regulatory issues:

  • Fraud Protection Failures: The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has filed a lawsuit against HSBC Australia, alleging that the bank failed to adequately protect its customers from scams, resulting in approximately A$23 million in losses between January 2020 and August 2024.
  • Consumer Data Right Breaches: In April 2024, HSBC was fined A$33,000 by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) for allegedly providing incomplete and inaccurate data on home loans and credit cards, hindering consumers’ ability to make informed choices.
  • Ethical Ratings: The Good Shopping Guide has rated HSBC with the lowest score in its Ethical Banks & Building Societies Ratings Table, indicating significant room for improvement in meeting ethical standards. 

How Does HSBC Compare to Other Banks?

HSBC Australia offers a unique banking experience, particularly appealing to individuals with international financial needs. Here’s a comprehensive comparison

 

Feature

HSBC

CBA

ANZ

NAB

Westpac

Interest Rates

Competitive

Moderate

Moderate

Moderate

Moderate

Global Banking

Excellent

Basic

Basic

Basic

Basic

Customer Service

Good (Premier)

Excellent

Good

Good

Good

Cashback Offers

Rare

Common

Common

Common

Common

Branch Access

Limited

Extensive

Extensive

Extensive

Extensive

Bonus: How Much Can I Borrow From An HSBC Personal Loan?

HSBC Personal Loan
HSBC Australia offers unsecured personal loans ranging from $5,000 to $50,000

HSBC Australia offers unsecured personal loans ranging from $5,000 to $50,000, with fixed interest rates between 12.99% p.a. and 16.99% p.a., depending on your credit profile and financial situation.

Key Features of HSBC Personal Loans

  • Loan Amounts: Borrow between $5,000 and $50,000.
  • Loan Terms: Repayment periods range from 1 to 5 years, allowing flexibility to suit your financial goals.
  • Interest Rates: Fixed rates starting from 12.99% p.a., with the exact rate determined by your creditworthiness.
  • Fees:
    • Establishment Fee: $150.
    • Monthly Account-Keeping Fee: $5.
    • Early Termination Fee: $199 (waived if the loan is paid out in the last six months of the term).

HSBC Home Loans FAQs

How to check HSBC home loan application status?

To check the status of your HSBC loan application, you can log in to your online banking account, where updates are often available. Additionally, you can contact your lending manager directly for the latest information on your application. The HSBC Australia mobile app also provides convenient updates on loan progress, allowing you to stay informed from your phone.

How long does it take for HSBC to release mortgage funds?

Mortgage funds from HSBC are typically released on the settlement day and are usually handled by your conveyancer. This means that once all the paperwork and legal processes are complete, the funds will be disbursed at the appropriate time to finalise the property purchase.

What is the 6-month rule for HSBC mortgages?

The “6-month rule” for HSBC mortgages refers to the requirement that borrowers must hold a property for at least six months before applying to refinance their mortgage. This is to ensure stability and compliance with HSBC’s lending policies.

Does a valuation mean a mortgage is approved at HSBC?

A property valuation conducted by HSBC does not guarantee mortgage approval. The valuation is only one part of the overall credit assessment process, which also considers your financial situation, income, credit history, and other factors before approving the loan.

Is HSBC hard to get a mortgage with?

Getting a mortgage with HSBC can be challenging if you have complex finances or a small deposit. Because of this, it’s often recommended to work with a mortgage broker who can help navigate the application process and improve your chances of approval.

What is the maximum age for a HSBC mortgage?

HSBC generally requires borrowers to fully repay their mortgage by the time they reach the age of 75. This means the maximum loan term is often structured so that repayments finish before the borrower reaches this age.

What are the disadvantages of HSBC Bank?

Some disadvantages of banking with HSBC include having fewer physical branches compared to major Australian banks, which may limit in-person service options. HSBC also has stricter eligibility criteria, which can make it harder for some applicants to qualify. Additionally, HSBC tends to offer less promotional flexibility, meaning fewer special deals or discounts on loans compared to competitors.

Can I get pre-approval for a home loan with HSBC?

Yes, HSBC offers home loan pre-approval (also known as conditional approval), which gives you a clear idea of how much you may be able to borrow. This can be useful when house hunting. Pre-approval typically lasts for 90 days and is subject to conditions such as property valuation and full financial assessment.

What documents are required for an HSBC home loan application?

To apply for an HSBC home loan, you’ll typically need to provide proof of identity, recent payslips or income statements, bank statements, tax returns (if self-employed), and details of any other loans or liabilities. If you’re purchasing a property, a copy of the contract of sale may also be required.

Can I make extra repayments on my HSBC home loan?

Yes, HSBC allows extra repayments on variable-rate home loans without penalties. This can help reduce your loan balance faster and save on interest. However, fixed-rate home loans may have restrictions or fees for additional repayments, so it’s important to check your loan terms.

Does HSBC offer offset accounts with its home loans?

Yes, HSBC offers 100% offset accounts with eligible variable-rate home loans. An offset account helps reduce the amount of interest you pay on your loan by offsetting your loan balance with the money held in your account, effectively lowering your interest charges.

Can I refinance my existing mortgage to HSBC?

Yes, HSBC offers refinancing options if you wish to move your existing mortgage from another lender. Refinancing with HSBC could help you secure a better interest rate, consolidate debt, or access equity in your home. It’s advisable to compare costs and speak with a lending specialist or broker before proceeding.

Final Thoughts: Is An HSBC Home Loan Right for You?

Choosing the right home loan is a major financial decision, and HSBC offers a range of products that cater well to borrowers who value competitive rates and international banking convenience. If you are looking for flexible options, such as variable or fixed rates, and especially if you have global financial needs or an existing HSBC relationship, their home loans can be a strong fit. However, HSBC’s stricter eligibility criteria, fewer branch locations, and mixed customer reviews mean it may not be the best choice for everyone.

If you have a straightforward financial situation, want personalised support, and access to a broad domestic network, some of Australia’s major banks might offer more convenience and better customer service. On the other hand, if you prioritise global banking features and digital tools and are comfortable working with brokers or managing online, HSBC could be a great option.

Ultimately, it’s important to carefully compare loan features, rates, fees, and customer service experiences to decide whether an HSBC home loan matches your financial goals and lifestyle. Consulting a mortgage broker or financial advisor can also help ensure you choose the best loan for your unique situation.

Need Help Finding The Right Home Loan?

Our team at Hunter Galloway is here to help you buy a home in Australia.  Unlike other mortgage brokers who are one-person operations, we have an entire team of experts dedicated to helping make your home loan journey as simple as possible.

If you want to get started, please give us a call on 1300 088 065 or book a free assessment online to see how we can help.

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Our team of home loan experts is here to help you buy a home in Australia

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Disclaimer: The information in this article is general in nature and does not constitute financial advice. Please consult a licensed mortgage broker or financial advisor before making decisions.

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