The situation
Passive product transfer with the incumbent is often the default — and often the wrong answer. Rates, LTVs and structures have changed meaningfully; running a proper market comparison at maturity is basic hygiene.
How we approach it
We compare incumbent lender's product-transfer offer with whole-of-market alternatives, factoring switching costs honestly. Sometimes the answer is stay; sometimes it's move — but always evaluated properly.
What that looks like in practice
- Product transfer with incumbent lender assessed
- Whole-of-market alternatives compared with switching cost factored
- Structural improvements (LTV, term, interest-only) considered
- Fixed vs variable rate view for your hold horizon
- Sometimes cheapest answer is stay — we'll say so honestly
Typical timeline
- 3 months pre-maturityIncumbent offer requested, market comparison started.
- 2 months pre-maturityApplications submitted where refinance justified.
- MaturityRefinance completes or product transfer confirmed.
Common questions
Is product transfer always cheapest?
No — often materially not. Switching cost is real but often outweighed by better rate or structure elsewhere.
How far ahead should I start?
3-4 months minimum. Commercial refinance takes 8-10 weeks properly — starting late means going onto SVR or accepting sub-optimal terms.
Can I extend the loan at maturity?
Sometimes — depends on lender and covenant. Formal extension or refinance both routes to consider.
Don't drift into product transfer
Send current loan details 3-4 months before maturity — we'll compare properly and give a clear recommendation.