20/07/2026
Wondering how a bridging loan actually works? Let’s break it down with a simple example.
Meet Sarah and James.
They’ve found their dream home but haven’t sold their current home yet. Rather than risk missing out, they decide to use a bridging loan to help buy first and sell later.
Here’s how it works.
Purchase Stage
• Sarah and James still owe $200,000 on their current home.
• They find a new property costing $800,000 (including eligible purchase costs).
• Their lender combines these amounts into one temporary loan.
Peak Debt = $1,000,000
This temporary balance is known as Peak Debt.
During this period, they own their new home while preparing their existing property for sale. Depending on the lender and loan structure, they may be able to make interest-only repayments or capitalise the interest while they wait for their home to sell.
Sale Stage
Once their existing home sells, they receive $600,000 in net sale proceeds.
That $600,000 is immediately used to reduce their Peak Debt.
$1,000,000 Peak Debt
− $600,000 Sale Proceeds
= $400,000 End Debt
The remaining $400,000 becomes their standard home loan, which they continue to repay as normal.
A bridging loan can offer more flexibility when moving home by allowing you to buy before you sell. It may also give you extra time to prepare your existing property for sale and help you avoid the stress of temporary accommodation.
Every situation is different, and bridging loans aren’t suitable for everyone. That’s why it’s important to understand your options before making your next move.
This is an example scenario only. Figures have been simplified for illustrative purposes and do not take into account interest, fees or individual lending criteria.
If you’re wondering whether a bridging loan could work for your circumstances, we’re here to help.
📍 Reach out to Mortgage Choice in Merimbula, Bega, Narooma, & Dapto today, your home loan experts on the Far South Coast.
📞 Office phone: 0432 281 837
📱Mobile: 0431 290 042