Refinancing the Current Loan
The existing mortgage is often refinanced so the whole project sits with one lender. This keeps the old loan and the new build working together.

Loving where you live but not the house on it is a common spot to be in. A knockdown rebuild lets you demolish the existing home and build new on the same block. Knockdown rebuild finance ties together the parts that make it more involved than a standard build.
Ausfirst Lending Group works as a specialist rebuild finance adviser, helping Sunshine Coast owners structure the current loan, the demolition and the new build so the funding holds together.
Structure the existing mortgage so it works with the rebuild.
Arrange funding before the property becomes a bare block.
Release construction funds progressively as the build advances.
A knockdown rebuild is rarely just a construction loan. There is usually an existing mortgage on the property, equity in the land, demolition to fund and a new build to stage. The lender needs to see how all of that works as one plan, because the old loan and the new construction have to line up rather than clash.
The new build itself runs on a construction loan.
The funding usually moves through a few stages, in order:
The existing mortgage is often refinanced so the whole project sits with one lender. This keeps the old loan and the new build working together.
Demolition is quoted and funded before the build begins, with the lender aware the security becomes a bare block for a time. Getting the order right protects everyone.
The new home is funded in stages, the same way a standard construction loan is, with interest usually charged only on what is drawn. Progress inspections sit between releases.
At completion, the property is revalued as a finished home and the loan settles into its ongoing form. The final valuation confirms the security.
The moment the old home comes down, the property securing the loan changes. For a window, the security is a bare block rather than a house. That is why the structure has to be approved before demolition starts, not after, and why getting the order of events right protects both you and the lender.
Many rebuilds lean on the equity already sitting in the land. That equity can form part of the funding, alongside the new construction loan and any refinance of the current mortgage. How much is usable depends on the current debt, the land value and the valuation on completion, so the numbers are worth mapping before you commit to a builder.
A few things shape the rate and terms on a knockdown rebuild:
A rebuild carries risks a standard build does not:
Once the home is down, the lender's security is a bare block rather than a house, so the structure has to be approved before demolition starts.
A valuation that comes in under the project cost can leave a gap you have to fund from your own pocket.
Living elsewhere during the build adds a cost that is easy to overlook when the budget is set.
The terms of your current mortgage may mean a refinance has to happen first, which is better sorted before demolition than during it.
The lender needs to see the current position and the future build. You usually need:
As a general guide only. Requirements, rates and terms vary by lender and your circumstances.
Before you book demolition or sign the final build contracts, know how the funding works across the whole project. Ausfirst Lending Group can review the current loan, the equity and the build so the rebuild is planned before the old home comes down.
It usually involves a construction loan, but it can also mean refinancing the current home loan, using equity and funding demolition, so there is more to structure.
Possibly. The lender assesses the current property value, existing debt, valuation on completion, your capacity and the project costs.
Yes, it can. Once the existing home is demolished, the security changes, so the lender needs to approve the structure before demolition starts.
Many lenders prefer a fixed-price contract for the construction stage. Non-standard arrangements may narrow appetite or need more documents.
Some borrowers factor related costs into their planning, but lender treatment varies. The repayment impact is worth weighing before you commit.
This page provides general information only. It does not consider your objectives, financial situation or needs and is not financial, tax or legal advice. Lending is subject to lender criteria, terms, conditions and eligibility. Speak with a qualified accountant, solicitor or finance professional before making tax, legal or business decisions.

Whether you're buying your first home, refinancing, or exploring loan options through a trust or SMSF, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. As your trusted Mortgage Broker on the Sunshine Coast, we offer personalised advice tailored to your needs.


















At Ausfirst Lending Group, we understand that medical and healthcare professionals need more than just a loan—they need a lending partner who appreciates their unique journey. Whether you're a doctor, nurse, dentist, or allied health specialist, we provide tailored home loan solutions with personal guidance, LMI waivers, and flexible options that fit your career and lifestyle. With Richard’s 30+ years of hands-on broking experience, we ensure your loan process is managed with care, transparency, and expertise from start to finish







Educators play a vital role in shaping future generations, and we’re here to ensure their home loan journey is just as rewarding. Whether you're a school teacher, early childhood educator, university lecturer, or support staff member, we offer home loan solutions designed to recognise your dedication to the community. From exclusive lending benefits to flexible loan structures, we simplify the process so you can focus on what you do best—teaching and supporting others.

For those who serve and protect—whether in law enforcement, emergency services, legal professions, or defence—navigating the home loan process should be as straightforward as possible. We offer tailored mortgage solutions that acknowledge the unique demands of your profession, providing structured lending benefits, flexible options, and personalised support.
From police officers and firefighters to lawyers and defence personnel, we’re here to simplify your path to homeownership with solutions designed around your service.









