If you’re looking to finance a property – whether personal or business-related – having the right team in your corner can make a significant difference. Working with a mortgage broker alongside your accountant provides strategic advantages far beyond interest rates. A team approach will ensure you secure the right structure to support your long-term goals, cash flow, and financial growth.
At Colledges, we collaborate with trusted professionals like Own Home Loans to offer tailored lending solutions with experienced financial insight. In this Q&A, Angelo Sirianni (Partner at Colledges) and Rory Sercombe (Mortgage Broker at Own Home Loans) explore the benefits of this team-based approach, and why engaging a mortgage broker provides many advantages.
Why work with an accountant and a mortgage broker rather than going straight to the bank?
Angelo: We work closely with brokers to review options and consider tax efficiencies, debt structuring, and cash flow needs. For business owners, having tax returns and balance sheets prepared by an accountant can significantly increase credibility with lenders. A broker doesn’t just chase a low rate, they help structure your loan to work smarter, and with our input, they’ll be able to secure the best loan structure for you.
Rory: Mortgage brokers are now required to operate under a Best Interests Duty which is a legal obligation to prioritise the client’s needs over commission. This duty requires us to find the lender and structure that is best for you the client, rather than trying to shoehorn you into their products. We make the structure and lender fit your needs, instead of trying to fit you into the loan.
How can a broker help clarify your property and financial goals?
Angelo: Brokers provide clarity on borrowing capacity, which directly influences your buying strategy. With a clear view of your finances, you can make more confident decisions about what’s achievable, and without adding too much stress to your finances.
Rory: We work with clients over the long term. A good broker reviews your goals regularly, whether that’s debt reduction, equity building, property improvement, or property investment, and adjusts the loan structure accordingly. Whatever your financial objectives are, a mortgage broker will review them and ensure you’re on track to achieving them. If your needs have changed, then they’ll help you find a better loan structure to support your growing and changing needs.
Do brokers have better access to loan products?
Angelo: Absolutely. Brokers have access to a vast panel of lenders including many that consumers have never heard of. This means more options and more flexibility when it comes to product features.
Rory: Lenders can vary greatly not only in interest rates but also in their loan features and options. Getting the right loan is not only about the best interest rate available. Sometimes people have specific needs, for example: they may need a loan that can settle in 30 days; there may be an issue on the credit file which makes it harder to get loan approval; they may want cashback for refinancing; some lenders are more likely to approve a loan if it’s specific type of property, development, or in the right zoning category; some lenders prefer specific industries and will have better loan structures for a range of work types. Some lenders are more generous with their loan amounts simply because their risk profile has changed and they want more business.
A good broker will stay across these changes and preferences and be able to bring you the best loan which comprises of a good interest rate, an ideal structure, and flexibility to suit your personal or business financial objectives as they grow.
Is using a mortgage broker more efficient than applying for a loan myself?
Angelo: Yes. Think of it as having a knowledgeable partner doing the legwork who saves you time, stress, and the guessing game. A broker takes on the heavy lifting, saves you hours of paperwork, research, and back-and-forth with banks.
Rory: We streamline the process by collecting only what’s needed for a specific lender. We know what documentation each lender requires and can navigate around obstacles, like fast settlements or irregular income, more efficiently than someone applying solo. Some lenders insist on one year or two years of financials, some will approve a loan on a BAS statement. Knowing what information lenders needs will save you time and increase chances of getting the approval.
What extra value does a mortgage broker provide?
Angelo: A good mortgage broker thinks strategically. They review your existing setup to look for savings, improve structure, or increase borrowing capacity as your circumstances evolve. That ongoing advice can be invaluable. For a small business wanting a loan to help fund their growth, understanding your expenses and current balance sheet informs you on your cashflow and how it is being moved within the business, and the opportunities to make more cashflow available to fund a new loan and growth.
Rory: Especially for business owners, understanding cash flow, equity, and profitability is essential. With an accountant and broker working together, we create a finance strategy aligned with your business goals. Plus, with us, you’re not dealing with a new face every time. This is our business, and we’re here for the long haul.
What if I’m self-employed?
Angelo: Self-employed clients often struggle with mainstream lenders because banks may struggle to interpret self-employed income, especially if it’s irregular or structured across multiple entities. As a team, we understand how to present complex financials and we work with lenders who genuinely understand business income structures.
Some lenders are more flexible with self-employed applicants and offer loan products tailored to business owners. We can match you with options you likely won’t find walking into a bank branch. As your business grows, so do your lending needs. Your accountant and mortgage broker working together becomes part of your advisory team, ready to reassess and adapt your strategy when needed.
Rory: We look beyond just the loan approval. Whether it’s using offset accounts, interest-only periods, or the right ownership structure, we’ll align the loan to your business and personal tax goals.
We know which lenders say ‘no’ to certain business structures, so you don’t waste time applying where you won’t qualify. Our process is efficient and guided from day one.
Contact the Colledges team today to find out more
We’re here to help so please give us a call at Colledges on 9851 6500 or email us at hello@colledges.com.au to discuss your loan needs. Or contact Rory Sercombe at Own Home Loans www.ownhomeloans.com.au if you would like to discuss your home, business or commercial loan.
