Coles Financial Services Review for Australian Expats
Coles Financial Services is a subsidiary of Coles Group, one of Australia’s largest retailers. They offer a range of financial products, including credit cards, insurance, and personal loans. They also have a Coles Mobile Wallet app that allows you to manage your account, track your purchases and balances in real-time, keep track of your Flybuys points balance and activate your Flybuys offers.
Please note that Coles does not currently offer home loans, so you can’t apply for an overseas expat home loan with them.
Coles Financial Services Review
Coles Financial Services is a well-established financial services provider in Australia. It has been in operation for over 20 years and offers a variety of personal loans and credit cards. It is a division of Coles Supermarkets Australia Pty Ltd, one of the largest supermarket chains in Australia. This gives them a strong brand reputation and access to a large customer base.
The company is generally well-regarded by the general public in Australia. They have a good reputation for offering competitive interest rates and fees, as well as for providing good customer service. They are also known for their innovative products, such as the Coles Mobile Wallet app.
Coles offers a variety of products and services that meet the needs of a wide range of customers in Australia. However, since they do not offer mortgage-related products and services, you will have to find another lender for your Australian expat home loan.
Here are some other lenders that you can go with instead:
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Facts About Coles Financial Services
Coles Financial Services was established in 1998 and was originally known as Coles Credit Union. In 2006, Coles Credit Union merged with Citibank Australia to form Coles Financial Services.
Coles also offers a mobile wallet app called Coles Mobile Wallet. The Coles Mobile Wallet app allows customers to make payments with their smartphones at Coles supermarkets and other participating retailers.
Coles is regulated by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC). ASIC is the government agency responsible for protecting consumers in the financial services industry.
How Do I Apply for an Overseas Home Loan?
The process of applying for a home loan in Australia as an Australian expat, Australian permanent resident, or foreign investor living overseas is similar to that of a resident borrower, but there are some specific considerations and requirements to keep in mind due to your non-resident status. Here’s a general guide to help you navigate the process.
- Research Lenders and Loan Options: Start by researching Australian banks, financial institutions, and mortgage brokers that offer home loans to non-resident borrowers. Different lenders may have varying eligibility criteria, interest rates, fees, and loan terms. Compare the options to find the one that suits your needs best.
- Eligibility Criteria: Check the eligibility criteria set by the lenders. Generally, the criteria might include factors such as your income, credit history, employment status, the type of property you’re buying, and the deposit you can provide.
- Documentation: Prepare the necessary documentation for your loan application, such as proof of identity (passport, residency/citizenship documents) and proof of income (recent pay stubs, tax returns, employment contracts).
- Deposit: Depending on the lender and your residency status, you might need to provide a larger deposit compared to resident borrowers. Australian banks typically require non-resident borrowers to provide a deposit of around 20% of the property’s value.
- Loan Application: Complete the loan application form provided by the lender. You can often do this online through the lender’s website or by contacting them directly. Ensure that all the information provided is accurate and complete.
- Loan Approval: The lender will review your application and documentation. If your application is approved, they will issue a loan offer outlining the terms and conditions of the loan.
- Property Valuation: The lender will likely require a property valuation to ensure that the property’s value aligns with the loan amount you’re seeking.
- Legal Advice: Given the complexities involved in cross-border property transactions, it’s advisable to seek legal advice from experts who specialise in international property transactions and Australian property law.
- Loan Settlement: Once all conditions are met, and the loan offer is accepted, the loan can proceed to settlement. This is when the funds are exchanged, and legal ownership of the property is transferred to you.
- Repayment and Maintenance: After settlement, you will be responsible for making regular mortgage repayments. It’s important to stay informed about changes in exchange rates and any legal or tax obligations related to owning property in Australia while living abroad.
Please note that the above is general information, and it can vary based on individual circumstances and changes in regulations. Consulting a mortgage broker or financial advisor who specialises in non-resident home loans, such as Odin Mortgage, is recommended. This way, you can get personalised guidance based on your situation.
Who is Eligible?
Eligibility criteria for overseas home loans in Australia can vary depending on factors such as residency status, income, credit history, and the lending policies of different financial institutions. Here’s a breakdown of eligibility for different categories.
- Australian Expats: Australian expats are typically eligible for home loans in Australia, similar to resident borrowers. Lenders may consider your Australian citizenship, credit history, income, and ability to service the loan. Some lenders might even offer special home loan packages for expats.
- Australian Permanent Resident: Australian permanent residents are generally eligible for home loans on similar terms as citizens. Lenders might consider your credit history, income stability, and residency status. Your status as a permanent resident is usually seen as a positive factor in loan applications.
- Foreign Investor Living Overseas: Foreign investors living overseas can also apply for home loans to buy property in Australia. However, the eligibility criteria for this group might be more stringent. Lenders could require a higher deposit (usually around 20-30% of the property’s value) due to your non-resident status. Some banks might have restrictions on the type of property you can purchase (e.g., new properties vs. existing properties) and could have specific lending policies for foreign investors.
It’s important to note that lending policies and eligibility criteria can change, and different lenders might have varying requirements. Some additional factors to consider include the following.
- Income Requirements: Lenders usually require proof of stable and sufficient income to service the loan. Some lenders might consider foreign income, but it could be subject to specific conditions.
- Credit History: A good credit history is essential for loan approval. Lenders will assess your creditworthiness based on your credit report, which might include information from your home country.
- Loan Purpose: Some lenders might have restrictions on the purpose of the loan, such as whether it’s for investment or owner-occupier purposes.
- Property Type: Lenders might have preferences for certain property types, and some could have restrictions on properties that are considered higher risk (e.g., inner-city apartments).
- Legal and Tax Implications: Owning property in Australia as a non-resident can have legal and tax implications. It’s advisable to seek legal and financial advice to understand these implications before proceeding with a loan application.
What Documents Do I Require?
The specific documentation requirements can vary between lenders and depending on your individual circumstances, but here is a general list of documents that you might need to provide when applying for a home loan to buy Australian property from overseas.
Proof of Identity and Residency/Citizenship
This includes a copy of your passport or national identity card, proof of Australian citizenship (if applicable), or proof of Australian permanent residency (if applicable).
Proof of Income
This includes your recent payslips (if you're employed), employment contract or letter from your employer, recent tax returns or income statements, or rental income statements (if applicable).
Proof of Assets and Liabilities
This includes bank statements (both local and international accounts) to show your savings and financial stability and statements for other assets such as investments, shares, or properties you might own.
Credit History
If available, provide your overseas credit report to demonstrate your creditworthiness. This might not be mandatory, but it can help your case.
Property Details
This includes the purchase contract or offer and acceptance document for the property you intend to buy.
Taxation and Legal Documentation
Depending on your situation, you might need to provide tax returns or other financial documents required by Australian authorities.
Other Documentation
Depending on the lender and your individual situation, they might request additional documents to support your application.
Remember that documentation requirements can vary, and it’s important to check with your chosen lender or mortgage broker for their specific requirements.
Need a Home Loan to Buy Property in Australia?
While Coles Financial Services offers a variety of financial solutions, its lack of home loan offerings directs those seeking home financing to explore other options available within the broader Australian financial landscape. To secure an overseas mortgage and achieve their property ownership goals, Australian expats, permanent residents, and foreign investors living overseas should turn to established banks and lenders that cater to their specific needs.
Odin Mortgage is here to help you with just that!
We are the leading mortgage broker with extensive experience in securing and handling overseas home loans in Australia. Reach out to us to discuss your requirements and situation and find out how we can help you in your property purchase journey!
Other Australian Lender Reviews
Allow us to find you the perfect home loan.
Apply online to get expert recommendations with real interest rates and repayments.
FAQs About Coles Financial Services
Does Coles Financial Services offer home loans to Australian expats and foreign investors living overseas?
No, Coles Financial Services does not currently provide home loans. While they offer various financial products like insurance, credit cards, and personal loans, they do not offer home loan solutions for Australian expats, permanent residents, or foreign investors living overseas.
What options do Australian expats and foreign investors living overseas have for home loans in Australia?
Australian expats, permanent residents, and foreign investors living overseas seeking home loans will need to explore other banks and lending institutions that offer specialised products for non-resident borrowers. Many traditional banks and financial institutions in Australia provide overseas mortgage options.
Should Australian expats and foreign investors seek mortgage brokers for assistance?
Yes, consulting a mortgage broker who specialises in non-resident home loans can be very helpful. These professionals have expertise in navigating the complex landscape of overseas mortgages and can guide you toward the most suitable lenders and products for your individual situation.
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