Question 1

What is the main advantage of using a mortgage broker like Local Knowledge Finance instead of going directly to a bank?

Accepted Answer

Going directly to a bank gives you access to only one product set—theirs. As your mortgage broker we work for you, not the banks. We compare hundreds of products from a panel of dozens of lenders to find a loan tailored to your situation. Our CPA-certified experts manage paperwork through to settlement, saving you time, stress, and potentially thousands.

Question 2

How much does it cost to use Local Knowledge Finance's services?

Accepted Answer

For most residential home loans our service is at no cost to you — we are paid by the lender after settlement, with full upfront disclosure. We are bound by the Best Interests Duty, which legally requires us to act in your best interest.

Question 3

I'm a first-home buyer feeling overwhelmed. How can you help me?

Accepted Answer

We bring clarity to every step. We help you understand your real borrowing power and the full costs, then guide you through every relevant grant and concession (FHOG, 5% Deposit Scheme, Family Home Guarantee). We handle lender negotiations and paperwork with regular, plain-English updates.

Question 4

I'm a single professional woman. Do you have experience with my situation?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. This is a key area of specialisation for us. We help single and divorced professional women secure finance with strategies to strengthen single-income borrowing capacity, navigate property settlements, and use programs like the Family Home Guarantee.

Question 5

Is now a good time to refinance my home loan?

Accepted Answer

In a shifting rate environment, a Loan Health Check is a smart move. Many Australians are refinancing for certainty (fixed rates), lower repayments, or to consolidate debt. We benchmark your loan against the market and quantify potential savings.

Question 6

I'm self-employed. Will I have trouble getting a home loan?

Accepted Answer

It is more complex but very achievable with the right preparation. As CPA-certified brokers and Registered Tax Agents we know exactly what lenders need — including BAS, tax returns, P&L statements and add-backs — and can present the strongest possible case.

Question 7

What awards has Local Knowledge Finance received?

Accepted Answer

Local Knowledge Finance has been recognised across nine national award programs spanning five industries over twelve consecutive years (2014–2026). In 2026, we were named finalist in three cross-sector categories at the Australian AI Awards — Innovation in Healthcare, Innovation in Property Investment, and Innovation in Cybersecurity — selected from 744 submissions. We are also a 6× Innovator of the Year finalist at the Australian Accounting Awards, Governance Top 100 ranked (3 consecutive years), and a previous finalist for Best Use of AI in Fintech.

Question 8

What is the Australian AI Awards and why does it matter for a mortgage broker?

Accepted Answer

The Australian AI Awards (by Momentum Media) is a leading national program recognising AI innovation across 37 categories spanning healthcare, property, cybersecurity, accounting, and more. Local Knowledge Finance is a 2026 finalist in three cross-sector categories — a rare distinction that validates our use of AI technology to deliver better outcomes for borrowers. It reflects the depth of our technology platform and our commitment to innovation beyond traditional broking.

Question 9

How does Local Knowledge Finance use AI technology?

Accepted Answer

We apply AI across our entire platform to improve client outcomes — from intelligent lender matching and rate comparison to automated market analysis, content-driven borrower education, and operational efficiency. Being recognised as an AI innovator across healthcare, property, and cybersecurity by the Australian AI Awards demonstrates that our technology capabilities extend well beyond mortgage broking into genuine cross-industry innovation.

Question 10

What makes Local Knowledge Finance different from other mortgage brokers?

Accepted Answer

Local Knowledge Finance is led by James Chee — a triple-certified professional who is simultaneously a Registered Mortgage Broker, Certified Practising Accountant (CPA), and Registered Tax Agent. This rare combination means your broker understands the full tax and financial picture, not just the loan. Based in Mascot, NSW, we compare products from 40+ lenders at no cost to you, are bound by Best Interests Duty, and have been recognised across 9 national award programs over 12 consecutive years (2014–2026), including 3 finalist categories at the Australian AI Awards 2026.

Question 11

What are Local Knowledge Finance's fees and how does the broker get paid?

Accepted Answer

For most residential home loans, our service is completely free to you. We are paid a commission by the lender after your loan settles — and we disclose every commission upfront before you proceed. We are legally bound by the Best Interests Duty, which requires us to prioritise your interests above our own. There are no hidden fees, no lock-in contracts, and no cost to get a second opinion on your current loan. For complex commercial transactions, any fee is discussed and agreed in advance.

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Refinancing

FAQCommon questions, clear answers.