When a second mortgage is the right tool
Refinancing the whole property to free up equity can mean break costs, a new bank application and weeks of process, all to fix a problem that may only last a few months. A second mortgage leaves the first loan exactly as it is and adds a separate, short-term business loan behind it. When the need has passed, the second mortgage is repaid and the original loan carries on.
Why valuations hurt second mortgages most
A second mortgage sits in the equity between the first loan and the property's value, so it is the part of the deal most exposed to a cautious valuation. A small trim to the valuer's figure can wipe out a large share of the room left for the second loan, and that often happens days into the process. Equity Tap does not need a valuation before approval, so that late surprise is taken out of the picture.
What we need to see
- The property address and who is on the title.
- A recent statement for the first mortgage showing the balance and that it is up to date.
- What the business needs the money for and the date it is needed by.
- How the loan will be repaid: a sale, a refinance of both loans into one, or an incoming business payment.
- Identification for the borrowers and guarantors.
We do not ask for tax returns, BAS or bank statements for a property-secured second mortgage.
The one thing that can affect timing
Some first lenders need to consent before a second mortgage is registered. If you know who your first lender is and whether consent is needed, tell us early so it runs alongside the rest of the work. That is often the biggest variable once the valuation step is gone.
Problems second mortgages solve every week
- Paying an ATO debt without disturbing a sharp first mortgage rate.
- Buying stock or equipment for a contract that has already been won.
- Paying out a cash flow loan with daily or weekly deductions.
- Covering a deposit or settlement gap while a sale or refinance completes.
Repayments while the plan plays out
On eligible facilities, up to six months of interest can be prepaid or added to the loan, so the second mortgage does not add a monthly payment while you work towards the exit. Terms run from one to twelve months. Pricing is set on your individual circumstances, the sharpest rate available for your situation. For a fuller explanation of consent, combined loan-to-value and exits, read our second mortgage business loans page.
Frequently asked questions
Do you need a valuation for a second mortgage?
Does my first lender need to agree?
How much can I borrow on a second mortgage?
Can the second mortgage be over commercial property?
Do you need bank statements or financials?
Brokers: send the scenario through the Equity Tap broker channel and you will deal with the same lending team.
