How does OAUM Securities get paid?
In most cases, finance brokers in Australia are paid a commission by the lender once a loan settles. This means that in many situations, you do not pay us directly for our services. However, there are some circumstances where a fee may apply, and we will always be upfront and transparent about this before we proceed. As part of our commitment to acting in your best interests, we are required under Australian law to disclose how we are remunerated. We believe it is important that you fully understand how the process works before making any decisions, so we encourage you to ask us any questions you have about our fees and commissions at any point.
Why should I use a finance broker instead of going directly to my bank?
When you go directly to a bank, you are only seeing the products that one lender offers. A finance broker like OAUM Securities has access to a panel of multiple lenders, which means we can present you with a wider range of options to consider. This broader view of the market can be genuinely valuable when you are making a significant financial decision. Beyond access to more options, we also bring expertise in understanding loan structures, fees, and conditions that may not always be obvious at first glance. We guide you through the process, help you understand what you are agreeing to, and work in your interest rather than the interest of any single lender.
How long does the finance application process take?
The timeline for a finance application can vary depending on a number of factors, including the type of finance you are applying for, the lender involved, and how quickly all required documentation can be gathered and submitted. In general terms, once we have a complete picture of your situation and all necessary documents are in order, we can move through the process as efficiently as possible. Some applications may receive a response within a few business days, while others, particularly those involving more complex circumstances or commercial lending, may take longer. At OAUM Securities, we keep you informed at every stage so you always know where things stand and what to expect next.
Can OAUM Securities help if I have had credit issues in the past?
Having a history of credit issues does not automatically mean finance is out of reach. There are lenders in the Australian market who specialise in working with clients who have had difficulties in the past, such as defaults, late payments, or previous bankruptcies. At OAUM Securities, we will take the time to understand your full financial history and current situation before discussing what options, if any, may be available to you. We want to be honest with you about what is realistic, and we will never encourage you to take on finance that does not suit your circumstances. Our role is to give you the information you need to make a sound decision for your future.
How do I get started with OAUM Securities?
Getting started is straightforward. You can reach out to us by phone, email, or through our website to arrange an initial conversation. This first discussion is an opportunity for us to learn about your situation and goals, and for you to ask any questions you might have about the process. There is no obligation involved in having that initial conversation. From there, if you decide you would like to proceed, we will outline the next steps and what information we will need from you. At OAUM Securities, we believe that a good working relationship starts with clear communication and mutual understanding, so we take the time to make sure you feel informed and comfortable before anything moves forward.
Do I need to be based in Canberra or the ACT to work with OAUM Securities?
While OAUM Securities is proudly based in Canberra and has a strong focus on serving clients across the ACT, we are able to assist clients in other parts of Australia as well. Much of the finance process can be handled remotely through phone, email, and video calls, which means geography does not have to be a barrier. That said, we have a deep understanding of the local Canberra and ACT property market and financial environment, which can be particularly useful if you are purchasing or investing in this region. If you are unsure whether we can assist with your specific situation or location, we encourage you to get in touch and we will let you know how we can help.
What is a finance broker and what do they do?
A finance broker is a professional who acts as the go-between for you and a range of lenders, such as banks, credit unions, and other financial institutions. Rather than you having to approach each lender individually, a finance broker does the legwork on your behalf. At OAUM Securities, we work to understand your financial situation and goals, then research and present loan or finance options that may suit your needs. We handle much of the paperwork and communication with lenders throughout the process, which can save you a significant amount of time and effort. Our role is to help you make informed decisions about your finance options, not to make those decisions for you.
Is OAUM Securities licensed and regulated?
Yes. OAUM Securities operates in accordance with Australian financial services regulations. Finance brokers in Australia are required to hold an Australian Credit Licence (ACL) or operate as a credit representative under an ACL holder, and are regulated by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC). We are also required to comply with the National Consumer Credit Protection Act, which sets out obligations around responsible lending and acting in the best interests of our clients. You can verify the credentials of any finance broker through the ASIC Connect Professional Registers. We are proud to operate with full transparency and to meet all regulatory requirements that protect our clients.
What documents will I need to provide?
The documents required will depend on the type of finance you are applying for and your individual circumstances. Generally speaking, lenders will want to verify your identity, your income, your assets and liabilities, and your credit history. For most applications, this means providing documents such as recent payslips or tax returns, bank statements, identification documents like a passport or driver's licence, and details of any existing debts or financial commitments. If you are self-employed or applying for business finance, additional documentation such as business financial statements may be required. At OAUM Securities, we will give you a clear list of what is needed for your specific situation so you can prepare without any confusion.
What types of finance can OAUM Securities help me with?
OAUM Securities works with clients across a broad range of finance needs. This includes home loans for owner-occupiers and investors, refinancing of existing loans, commercial property finance, business lending, vehicle and equipment finance, and personal loans. Whether you are purchasing your first home in Canberra, looking to grow a property portfolio, or seeking finance to support a business venture in the ACT, we can help you explore what options may be available to you. Every client's situation is different, so we take the time to understand your individual circumstances before discussing what types of finance may be worth exploring.