FAQs about home loan fees and charges

Here you'll find answers to questions about fees and charges on your home loan and how to minimise fees and save on interest. If you want to talk to a BankSA home loan expert, call us on 13 13 76.

1.  What bank fees will I pay on my home loan?

   Fees vary depending on the type of loan you choose. You can take a look at the "Fees & Rates" tab for each of our home loans or you can view a complete list of home loan fees.

2.  What are Comparison Rates and where can I see them?

   A Comparison Rate is an indicative interest rate that helps consumers compare loans. This rate is calculated by taking into account both the interest rate and the fees and charges related to the home loan product, and reduces these to a single percentage figure for a secured loan amount of $150,000 and a term of 25 years.
   
   A Comparison Rate includes certain fees and charges but not all fees and charges. You should check the fees and charges that apply to any loan you are considering.When you read about home loans on our website, the Fees & Rates tab will list the Comparison Rate as well as the interest rate for the home loan.

3.  How is a Comparison Rate calculated?

   Comparison Rates are calculated in accordance with a standard formula set out in the National Credit Code.

4.  Where can I see how far ahead I am with my home loan?

   You can use either Phone or Internet Banking to see the status of your home loan. You can also call us on 13 13 76.

5.  Can I repay my loan early?

   Depending on the home loan you choose, there may be a penalty for repaying it early. Our introductory home loans (Discount Variable Rate and One Year Introductory Fixed Rate) carry an early termination fee based on a percentage of the loan amount as at the day of discharge. Early Termination Fees do not apply for loans approved from 3 June 2011. Where applicable, the fee will be disclosed in the Offer.
   
   This fee is payable if the loan is discharged within a certain time frame. Other home loans have a flat fee payable if the loan is discharged within a certain time frame. These fees are clearly stated in our home loan documentation so you can make an informed decision about the best home loan for your needs. See a complete list of Home Loan fees and charges.

6.  What are BankSA's fixed and variable interest rates?

   Compare interest rates across all our home loan products.

7.  What is the best interest rate I can get?

   We do have a list of current interest rates across all our home loans available. It's important to remember that when it comes to saving money on your home loan, it's not all about the interest rate. For example, you should also consider the cost of monthly fees and the benefit of offset facilities. Learn more about your loan and interest rates.

8.  What stamp duty and other government charges do I have to pay when I buy my home?

   Calculate Stamp Duty and other government fees and duties when you purchase property.

9.  With a refinance, how is stamp duty calculated and when is it payable?

   The amount of Stamp Duty you pay on a refinance is based on the loan amount and it is payable at the time of settlement. You may be able to apply for an exemption or a discount on the amount payable. Your solicitor or conveyancer will be able to provide you with this information. Learn more about Stamp Duty.

10.  What is a 'switch fee'?

    When you choose to change any of the following features on your home loan, you may have to pay a 'switch fee':
    
    1. Changing the interest rate (e.g. from variable to fixed)
    
    2. Changing the repayment option (e.g. between ‘interest based’ and ‘principal and interest’).
    
    If you include your loan in Advantage Package, you will not pay switch fees, account service fees and can also access a range of other benefits like interest rate discounts, no monthly fees, free everyday banking and a fee-free credit card. An annual package fee applies¹.
    
    See a complete list of Home Loan fees and charges.

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