The calculator shows your estimated regular repayment, total interest over the term, and any balloon owing at the end. Visualisations break each repayment into interest and principal and plot the remaining balance across time. Interpreting these correctly helps you choose the right structure for your budget and goals.
Use the live calculator
Key outputs and what they mean
Repayment
Your per‑period payment (principal + interest)
Total interest
Sum of all interest charged over the schedule
Balloon
Residual lump sum owed at the end
Comparison rate
All‑in annual rate estimate including fees
If your repayment is too high
- Increase term (watch total interest)
- Add deposit or trade‑in equity to lower amount financed
- Consider a modest balloon if appropriate and planned for
If total interest feels excessive
- Shorten the term (if cash flow allows)
- Reduce or remove the balloon; it lowers regulars but increases total interest
- Make extra repayments; even $25–$50/week helps
Reading the charts
- Balance over time: should decline smoothly; a balloon leaves a final step down at term end.
- Totals breakdown: compares principal financed vs total interest (and balloon, if any).
- Repayment composition: early periods are interest‑heavy; principal share grows over time.
Common pitfalls
- Chasing the lowest monthly number via a huge balloon—risk increases at term end.
- Ignoring fees—use the comparison rate and total cost as your benchmark.
- Underestimating on‑roads—include realistic stamp duty, rego, CTP and potential LCT.
Bottom line
Use the calculator to pressure‑test structure decisions. It’s a guide—not a quote—but it’s a powerful way to understand the trade‑offs so you can negotiate and plan with confidence.