Commonwealth Bank (CommBank or CBA) offers digital home loans and more flexible options with package benefits. This guide examines its products, fees, eligibility rules and practical limitations. It also compares the Digi Home Loan with feature-rich alternatives, helping you decide which option deserves consideration.
CBA Key Takeaways
| Review Area | Key Finding |
| Overall verdict | CBA offers a broad product range, digital banking and access to home lending specialists. |
| Best for | Borrowers who value established banking services, online management and flexible loan features. |
| Digital option | The Digi Home Loan offers online applications, redraw and an optional offset account. |
| Premium features | Eligible Standard Variable Rate and Fixed Rate loans can receive Wealth Package benefits. |
| Fees | Establishment, ongoing, package and switching fees depend on the product and applicable terms. |
| First-home buyers | Eligible borrowers may access government-backed deposit schemes through participating arrangements. |
| Main limitation | CBA’s features and pricing may not suit borrowers seeking the lowest total borrowing cost. |
| Our recommendation | Compare the total cost, loan flexibility and service options before choosing CBA. |
CBA Home Loan Review: Overview and Verdict
Commonwealth Bank is one of Australia’s major banks, offering home lending for owner-occupiers and property investors. Its range includes variable, fixed and digital lending options.
The bank’s main strength is choice. You can pursue a streamlined online loan or choose a product with broader features and package benefits. Furthermore, CommBank provides digital account management alongside assistance from home lending specialists.
However, a familiar banking brand does not automatically mean better value. Your final pricing depends on factors such as your deposit, loan size, property and financial circumstances.
The Digi Home Loan suits eligible borrowers who prefer online applications and relatively simple features. Meanwhile, eligible Standard Variable Rate and Fixed Rate loans offer access to Wealth Package benefits.
One important distinction concerns package pricing. From 14 March 2026, Wealth Package benefits became part of eligible new Standard Variable Rate and Fixed Rate home loans. This change also affects certain existing loans and package arrangements.
Our verdict: CBA deserves consideration if you value established banking, digital convenience and flexible lending features. Nevertheless, compare its total costs against competing lenders before deciding.
What Home Loans Does CBA Offer?
CBA provides several home loan options for different borrowing needs. Product availability and eligibility depend on your circumstances and the property’s intended use.
Digi Home Loan
The Digi Home Loan is CBA’s online-focused variable-rate product.
Its features include:
- Online applications: You can apply digitally and manage your application through CommBank’s online services.
- Optional offset: You can link one eligible Everyday Offset account to reduce the balance charged interest.
- Additional repayments: You can pay extra towards your loan, subject to the product terms.
- Redraw access: You can withdraw eligible additional repayments through supported digital banking channels.
- Limited product flexibility: The loan excludes certain transactions, including land purchases, construction loans and bridging finance.
This option suits borrowers who want straightforward digital management rather than a comprehensive package.
Standard Variable Rate Home Loan
CBA’s Standard Variable Rate product offers greater flexibility for eligible borrowers.
Depending on the loan terms, you can access offset accounts, additional repayments, redraw and other features. Eligible loans may also receive Wealth Package benefits.
Consequently, this product can suit borrowers who want flexibility throughout their loan term. However, you should assess its ongoing costs and available pricing.
Fixed Rate Home Loan
A fixed-rate loan keeps your interest rate unchanged for an agreed period.
This provides more predictable scheduled repayments during the fixed term. However, fixed loans can restrict extra repayments and access to offset accounts.
Additional repayment limits, break costs and other conditions may apply. Review the relevant product documents before committing.
Other Lending Options
CBA also offers products and lending arrangements for eligible investors and borrowers with different needs.
Depending on the product, interest-only repayments may be available for a specified period. These repayments do not reduce your principal unless you make additional payments.
If you need construction finance, bridging finance or company borrowing, confirm the appropriate product with the bank. The Digi Home Loan does not cover every borrowing purpose.
CBA Home Loan Interest Rates
CBA offers different pricing structures depending on your selected loan, repayment type and financial profile. Rates can also depend on your loan-to-value ratio (LVR) and applicable discounts.
This review does not reproduce specific interest rates because advertised pricing can change. Instead, compare the pricing structure and the conditions attached to each option.
Variable Rate Versus Fixed Rate
A variable rate can change during your loan term. Your repayments or the amount of interest you pay can therefore increase or decrease.
A fixed rate provides greater certainty during the agreed fixed period. However, you may face restrictions when making extra repayments or changing lenders.
Consider these differences:
- Variable loans: These suit borrowers who value flexibility and want access to eligible offset and redraw features.
- Fixed loans: These suit borrowers who prefer predictable repayments over a defined period.
- Split loans: Eligible products may allow you to divide borrowing between fixed and variable portions, combining some certainty with flexibility.
Why the Comparison Rate Matters
The comparison rate combines the interest rate with certain fees and charges into a standardised annual percentage. It helps you compare the cost of similar loans.
However, comparison rates use prescribed assumptions and may exclude some costs. They also may not reflect the value you receive from an offset account.
Compare the comparison rate, establishment costs, ongoing fees and features together. Your actual borrowing cost depends on how you use the loan.
CBA Home Loan Fees and Charges
Fees can affect the value of a loan, particularly when you keep it for many years. CBA’s published fee schedule identifies charges that depend on your selected product.
| Fee or Charge | What You Need to Know |
| Establishment fee | The Digi Home Loan has a published upfront establishment fee, subject to the applicable terms. |
| Loan service fee | The Digi Home Loan has a monthly service fee under its published fee schedule. |
| Offset feature fee | The Digi Home Loan charges for its optional offset feature under the published schedule. |
| Wealth Package fee | The published annual fee for eligible package arrangements is $395. |
| Switching fee | A fee may apply when changing the Digi Home Loan’s purpose, repayment type or product type. |
| Late payment fee | A charge may apply if your account falls into arrears under the applicable conditions. |
| Break costs | Fixed-rate borrowers may face additional costs when ending or changing their loan early. |
These fees are based on CBA’s published product and fee information. Confirm the current amounts before applying, as terms and pricing can change.
Does the Wealth Package Offer Good Value?
CBA’s Wealth Package provides eligible borrowers with benefits associated with qualifying home loans. Its published annual fee is $395.
Eligible package benefits can include discounted lending rates and waived loan service or establishment fees, subject to product conditions. Some eligible customers may also receive a fee waiver on one qualifying CommBank credit card.
The package may offer value if you have a substantial loan balance or use several eligible features. However, its annual cost may outweigh the savings for some borrowers.
Calculate the difference between the available loan pricing with and without the relevant benefits. Then account for the annual fee and any other costs.
Importantly, the Digi Home Loan does not include Wealth Package benefits. From 14 March 2026, eligible new Standard Variable Rate and Fixed Rate loans receive package benefits as part of the applicable arrangements.
Home Loan Features and Benefits
The right features can matter as much as the advertised interest rate. CBA offers several tools that can help you manage repayments and access your money.
Offset Accounts
An offset account is a transaction account linked to an eligible home loan. Its balance reduces the loan balance used to calculate interest.
For example, suppose you borrow $800,000 and maintain $50,000 in an eligible offset account. You would generally pay interest on the difference of $750,000, assuming the full balance qualifies for offsetting.
CBA allows up to 99 Everyday Offset accounts with eligible Standard Variable Rate loans. The Simple Home Loan allows up to two, while the Digi Home Loan permits one.
The Digi Home Loan’s offset feature attracts a monthly fee under its published schedule. Compare that fee with the interest savings your typical savings balance could generate.
Redraw Facility
A redraw facility lets you access eligible additional repayments you’ve made above the required minimum.
This can help you reduce interest while retaining access to extra funds. However, redraw availability depends on the loan conditions and available balance.
CBA provides redraw through eligible loans using NetBank and the CommBank app. Review any withdrawal restrictions before relying on redraw for emergencies.
Digital Banking
CBA supports online loan management through NetBank and its mobile banking app.
Depending on your product, you can view loan details, monitor balances, access statements and manage eligible redraws. You can also track your application through the bank’s digital services.
These tools are useful if you prefer managing finances online. However, digital convenience alone does not establish that a loan offers competitive value.
CBA Home Loan Eligibility Requirements
CBA assesses your financial position, repayment capacity and the property offered as security. Meeting its general requirements does not guarantee approval.
Your application will usually involve the following factors:
- Income: CBA assesses your earnings and whether they can support the proposed repayments.
- Living expenses: The bank considers your household spending when estimating your ability to repay.
- Existing debts: Credit cards, personal loans and other liabilities can reduce your borrowing capacity.
- Deposit and savings: Your available deposit affects your LVR and may influence pricing or eligibility.
- Employment history: Your work arrangements and income stability help establish whether your earnings are sustainable.
- Property details: The property’s value, type and intended use must satisfy the bank’s lending criteria.
- Credit history: Your existing repayment conduct and credit commitments form part of the assessment.
Applicants may need identification, bank statements, payslips, tax returns or other financial documents. Self-employed applicants generally need additional evidence of income and business performance.
CBA’s Digi Home Loan has a minimum loan amount of $100,000 and is restricted to eligible individual borrowers. It is not available for company or trust borrowers.
How Much Can You Borrow With CBA?
Your borrowing capacity depends on your income, expenses, debts, deposit and loan structure. Interest rates and the proposed loan term also influence the assessment.
For example, consider a property purchase costing $900,000. With a $180,000 deposit, you would need to borrow $720,000 before accounting for purchase costs.
Your LVR would be 80%, calculated by dividing the loan amount by the property value. However, the bank must still assess your financial position and the property’s suitability.
A larger deposit can reduce your borrowing requirement. Nevertheless, you should retain enough savings for stamp duty, conveyancing, inspections and other purchase costs.
CBA offers a borrowing power calculator that estimates how much you may be able to borrow. Treat the result as a planning guide rather than a formal approval.
Which Government Schemes Can CBA Support?
Commonwealth Bank participates in the Australian Government 5% Deposit Scheme and Help to Buy Scheme. Eligible customers can apply through a CBA Home Lending Specialist, subject to scheme requirements and credit approval.
Australian Government 5% Deposit Scheme
The Australian Government 5% Deposit Scheme helps eligible first-home buyers purchase with a minimum 5% deposit. Eligible single parents and single legal guardians may qualify with a minimum 2% deposit, without paying lenders mortgage insurance (LMI).
Borrower eligibility, property price caps and CBA’s lending requirements apply. Depending on their circumstances, applicants may need a larger deposit. Buyers must also cover additional purchasing costs, including stamp duty and conveyancing fees.
Help to Buy Scheme
The Help to Buy Scheme is a shared-equity initiative available through CBA. Eligible buyers can purchase with a minimum 2% deposit, while the government contributes up to 30% for existing homes or 40% for newly built homes.
Income limits, property price caps and other eligibility requirements apply. The government shares proportionally in changes to the property’s value, and its equity share must eventually be repaid. Applicants must also meet ongoing scheme obligations and CBA’s lending requirements.
Lenders Mortgage Insurance and Other Support
A LMI waiver is different from a government guarantee. Some lenders waive lenders mortgage insurance for eligible borrowers, often subject to occupation or professional criteria.
CBA’s lending options may also include eligible low-deposit arrangements or guarantor support. Availability depends on the relevant product and assessment criteria.
Remember that a government guarantee does not remove your responsibility to repay the loan. It protects the lender under the scheme’s terms rather than paying your deposit.
Pros and Cons of CBA Home Loans
CBA’s range offers useful flexibility, but you should weigh its benefits against its costs.
| Pros | Cons |
| Broad product selection | Choosing between products and packages can require careful comparison. |
| Digital loan management | Online convenience does not guarantee the lowest borrowing cost. |
| Offset and redraw options | Offset access and fees depend on the selected product. |
| Home lending specialists | Personal assistance does not guarantee approval or better pricing. |
| Package benefits on eligible loans | The annual package fee can outweigh the benefits for some borrowers. |
| Government scheme access may be available | Scheme eligibility and lender participation must be confirmed. |
Overall, CBA is worth comparing if you value banking convenience and loan flexibility. Borrowers focused primarily on price should also consider simpler products from competing lenders.
CBA Customer Service and Reputation
CBA combines digital banking with access to home lending specialists. You can manage many loan tasks online or seek assistance with your application.
This combination suits borrowers who want both self-service and human support. However, your experience may vary depending on the complexity of your application and the assistance required.
Before applying, consider the following:
- Digital support: Check whether the app and NetBank provide the functions you need for everyday loan management.
- Application assistance: Ask how you can contact a lending specialist if your income or purchase circumstances are complex.
- Complaint handling: Review the bank’s complaint process and understand how to escalate unresolved concerns.
- Offset management: Confirm that any offset account is correctly linked and reduces the interest charged.
Reputation should inform your decision, but it should not replace a comparison of loan costs and suitability.
Is CBA Good for First-Home Buyers?
CBA may suit first-home buyers who want digital application tools, lending support and access to eligible low-deposit options.
Buying a house involves more than saving a deposit. You must also budget for legal costs, inspections, moving expenses and ongoing ownership costs.
A home buyer should check whether they qualify for government assistance before choosing a loan. Scheme eligibility, property price limits and lender participation can affect your options.
CBA may be particularly useful if you want support understanding the application process. However, compare its fees and features with other lenders before committing.
Is CBA Good for Casual Employees?
Casual employment does not automatically prevent you from obtaining a home loan. However, lenders may examine your employment history and income consistency more closely.
CBA’s application guidance indicates that casual employees may need six months of bank statements, compared with three months for some other applicants.
You should prepare recent payslips, bank statements and evidence of your employment arrangements. If your hours fluctuate, explain how your income has changed over time.
Approval depends on the bank’s assessment of your overall circumstances. A strong deposit can help, but it does not replace evidence of sustainable income.
Is CBA Good for Self-Employed Borrowers?
CBA may suit self-employed applicants who can provide clear evidence of their earnings and business performance.
Depending on your circumstances, you may need personal and business tax returns, notices of assessment and financial statements. Sole traders may need to provide two years of personal tax returns.
CBA also indicates that some applicants who pay themselves a regular salary may qualify for simplified income verification.
If your business income varies, prepare documents explaining your recent results. Compare lenders if your business is new or your latest financial statements show reduced earnings.
Is CBA Good for Property Investors?
CBA offers investment lending for eligible borrowers purchasing or refinancing investment properties.
Investors should compare the interest rate structure, repayment options and costs associated with their intended strategy. Interest-only repayments may be available for a defined period, subject to approval.
An interest-only period can improve short-term cash flow. However, your principal does not decrease through those repayments, and repayments may rise when the interest-only period ends.
You should also consider rental income, vacancy periods, maintenance costs and other property expenses. Your borrowing capacity will depend on the lender’s assessment of your full financial position.
Is CBA Good for Refinancing?
CBA can be an option if you want to refinance an existing home loan. The right choice depends on the savings available and the cost of switching.
Before refinancing, compare:
- Interest costs: Check whether the new loan offers meaningful savings over your expected holding period.
- Switching costs: Include discharge, establishment and other applicable fees in your calculations.
- Loan features: Confirm that your preferred offset and redraw facilities remain available.
- Repayment flexibility: Consider whether the new loan supports your planned repayment strategy.
- Approval requirements: Remember that refinancing involves a fresh assessment of your financial circumstances.
A lower advertised rate does not necessarily mean a cheaper loan overall. Calculate the likely savings after fees and consider whether the new product suits your future plans.
CBA Home Loans Compared With Other Lenders
CBA competes with other major banks and digital-focused lenders. The best alternative depends on whether you value flexible features, service options or simpler pricing.
| Feature | CBA | Other Major Banks | Digital-Focused Lenders |
| Product range | Offers variable, fixed and digital options. | Many offer variable, fixed and package products. | Often focus on a narrower range of products. |
| Offset accounts | Available on eligible products with product-specific limits and fees. | Availability and account limits vary by lender. | Some offer offsets, while others provide simpler loans without them. |
| Redraw | Available on eligible products under the relevant conditions. | Common on many variable-rate products, subject to terms. | Availability depends on the lender and product. |
| Customer support | Combines digital banking with home lending specialists. | Support channels vary across banks. | Some rely more heavily on online or telephone service. |
| Package benefits | Wealth Package benefits apply to eligible loans. | Some offer packages with discounts or bundled features. | Many focus on simpler pricing and fewer bundled benefits. |
| Borrower suitability | Can suit customers seeking flexibility and established banking. | May suit borrowers who prefer another bank’s pricing or service. | May suit borrowers prioritising a streamlined digital experience. |
This comparison describes broad product differences rather than a ranking of current offers. Confirm each lender’s current terms before making a decision.
For a fair comparison, request equivalent loan structures and repayment terms. Compare the total cost over your expected ownership period rather than relying on promotional pricing alone.
Who Should Consider CBA Home Loans?
CBA may be worth considering if you:
- Want digital convenience: Its app and online banking support many everyday loan management tasks.
- Value loan flexibility: Eligible products provide offset, redraw or other useful features.
- Prefer established banking services: You can access digital services and home lending assistance.
- Need investment lending: CBA offers eligible investment loan options with different repayment structures.
- Want to explore government support: Its lending channels may help eligible borrowers investigate applicable schemes.
Conversely, compare alternatives if you want the lowest possible total cost, need specialised lending or prefer a loan with fewer fees.
How to Apply for a CBA Home Loan
The application process starts with understanding your finances and choosing an appropriate product.
- Review your budget. Calculate your deposit, regular expenses and expected ownership costs before deciding on a property budget.
- Compare loan options. Examine the interest rate structure, fees, offset access and repayment flexibility for suitable CBA products.
- Prepare your documents. Gather identification, payslips, bank statements and other evidence relevant to your employment and income.
- Request conditional pre-approval. CBA can assess your initial position and provide an indication of your borrowing limit, subject to conditions.
- Choose a property. Consider the property’s value, condition and suitability before making a purchase commitment.
- Complete the formal application. Provide any outstanding documents so the bank can assess your application and security property.
- Review the loan offer. Read the repayment terms, fees, conditions and settlement requirements before accepting.
Conditional pre-approval is not a guarantee of final approval. Your circumstances, the property valuation and the bank’s lending criteria can affect the final outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions About CBA Home Loans
Is CBA a Good Bank for a Home Loan?
CBA may suit borrowers who value digital banking, flexible loan features and access to lending specialists. However, compare its fees, rates and total borrowing costs against other lenders before choosing.
Does CBA Offer Offset Accounts?
Yes. CBA offers Everyday Offset accounts with eligible variable-rate products. The number of accounts allowed and any associated fees depend on your selected loan.
Can You Get a CBA Home Loan With a 5% Deposit?
Potentially. Eligible borrowers may access government-backed deposit schemes or other qualifying low-deposit arrangements. Approval depends on the relevant scheme rules and CBA’s lending criteria.
Does CBA Offer Home Loans for Casual Workers?
Yes, casual employment does not automatically exclude you from applying. CBA assesses your income, employment history, expenses and overall ability to repay the loan.
Can Self-Employed Borrowers Apply for a CBA Home Loan?
Yes. Self-employed applicants can apply, but they may need tax returns, business financial statements and other income evidence. Documentation requirements depend on their circumstances.
Does CBA Allow Extra Repayments?
Eligible products allow additional repayments, subject to their terms. Fixed-rate loans may impose restrictions or charges on additional repayments, so check the applicable conditions.
What Is the Difference Between CBA’s Digi Home Loan and Wealth Package Loans?
The Digi Home Loan is designed for online applications and includes an optional offset feature. Eligible Standard Variable Rate and Fixed Rate loans can receive Wealth Package benefits, which may include discounted pricing and certain fee waivers.
Can You Refinance to CBA From Another Bank?
Yes, CBA accepts eligible refinancing applications. The bank assesses your finances, the property and the proposed loan. Compare the expected savings against switching costs before proceeding.
Final Verdict: Is CBA Worth Considering?
CBA offers a broad selection of home loans, established digital banking services and flexible features for eligible borrowers. Its Digi Home Loan provides a streamlined option, while eligible packaged loans offer additional benefits.
However, the best choice depends on how you borrow and manage your money. An offset account may provide meaningful savings if you maintain a healthy balance. Conversely, its fees may not justify the feature if you rarely hold savings.
First-home buyers, casual employees, self-employed applicants and investors should assess their individual eligibility rather than assume one product suits everyone.
Ultimately, CBA deserves a place on your comparison list, but it should not be your automatic choice. Compare equivalent loans, calculate the total costs and select the option that best supports your financial circumstances.
Disclaimer
This article provides general information about home loans in Australia. It does not consider your personal financial situation, objectives or needs and is not personal financial advice.
Loan products, fees, interest rates, eligibility rules and government schemes can change. Verify current information with CBA and the relevant government authorities before making a financial decision. Consider obtaining independent financial or legal advice where appropriate.
More Resources For Homebuyers
- ANZ home loan review
- Auswide home loan review
- Bank of Melbourne home loan review
- Bankwest home loan review
- Bluestone home loan review
- BOQ home loan review
Sources Used In This Article
The following official resources support the product descriptions, fee information, eligibility guidance and government scheme explanations in this review.
1. CommBank Home Loans — Outlines the bank’s home loan range, product features and application options.
2. CommBank Digi Home Loan — Explains the digital loan’s features, restrictions, fees and eligibility conditions.
3. CommBank Home Loan Interest Rates — Provides current product pricing information and explains the differences between available loan options.
7. Housing Australia — Provides official information about government-supported home-buying schemes and participating lenders.
8. ASIC: Mortgage Offset Accounts — Explains how offset accounts work and why borrowers should confirm their accounts are correctly linked.
