Equity Release: Accessing the Equity in Your Sydney Home
If your property has grown in value since you bought it, you may have more equity than you realise. Equity release lets you access that growth for a renovation, an investment, a major expense, or to help a family member — without selling. We compare 60+ lenders to find the right structure for your goal.
How much equity can you access?
As a general guide, you can borrow up to 80% of your property's value (including your existing loan). Your usable equity is roughly 80% of the property value minus what you owe. For example, if your home is worth $1,200,000 and you owe $500,000, your usable equity is approximately $460,000 (80% of $1.2m = $960,000, minus $500,000).
The exact amount depends on the lender, your income, your property type, and what you're using the funds for. We'll calculate the real figure for your property across multiple lenders.
| Property value | $1,200,000 |
|---|---|
| Current loan balance | $500,000 |
| 80% of property value | $960,000 |
| Usable equity (indicative) | ~$460,000 |
Indicative only. Actual usable equity varies by lender, income assessment and property type.
Ways to access your equity
Cash-out refinance
You refinance your existing loan to a new lender (or stay with your current one) and increase the loan amount, taking the difference in cash. This is the most common way to release equity. The new loan must still meet the lender's servicing requirements — your income needs to support the higher loan amount.
Line of credit
A line of credit lets you draw funds up to an approved limit as you need them, rather than taking a lump sum. You only pay interest on what you draw. This can suit ongoing expenses like a renovation, where you pay tradespeople in stages.
Equity for a second property
You can use the equity in your existing property as the deposit for a second purchase — an investment property, a new home, or a property for a family member. The structure matters here: we generally recommend a standalone loan split rather than cross-collateralising both properties.
Reverse mortgage (for older borrowers)
If you're 60 or older, a reverse mortgage lets you access equity without making repayments. Interest compounds and is repaid when you sell or pass away. It's a significant decision — we'll explain the full implications and recommend you seek independent advice.
What it costs you
Nothing. The lender pays us a commission for introducing the loan — you don't pay us a fee. For reverse mortgages and some specialist products, a fee may apply. We'll tell you exactly what we earn and any fees before you commit, in writing, as the law requires.
Important: releasing equity increases your loan amount and your repayments. It also reduces the equity buffer you have in your property. We'll talk through the risks honestly, including what happens if property values fall, and make sure the structure is right for your goal.
Want to know how much equity you can access?
A free, no-obligation chat. We'll calculate your usable equity and show you the options. No pressure, no fee, no jargon.