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Caveat Loan

Caveat Loan is a short-term funding facility where the lender registers a caveat — a legal notice of interest — on the borrower's property title instead of a full mortgage. Because caveat registration is faster and simpler than mortgage registration, caveat loans can settle in 24–72 hours, making them one of the fastest finance options available to Australian business owners.

Why It Matters

When a business needs funds urgently — to meet a Notice to Complete, pay an ATO debt, or cover a time-critical purchase — a full mortgage process may be too slow. Caveat loans fill this gap with same-day or next-day funding, secured by the borrower's property equity. They sit alongside private lending and commercial bridging finance in the specialist lending market.

How It Works

  • The lender assesses the borrower's property equity and exit strategy.
  • Instead of registering a full mortgage, the lender lodges a caveat on the property title.
  • Funds can be advanced within 24–72 hours of approval.
  • The loan is typically repaid within 1–6 months, after which the caveat is removed.

Common Use Cases

  • Emergency ATO or DPN payouts
  • Meeting a Notice to Complete deadline
  • Bridging a gap while bank finance is being processed
  • Urgent stock or inventory purchases
  • Short-term business cash flow rescue

Related Switchboard Resources

For information on caveats and property title registration, visit land.vic.gov.au.

How is a caveat loan different from a mortgage?
A caveat is a notice of interest, not a registered security. It is faster to lodge and remove, but gives the lender less protection than a full mortgage. That is why caveat loans are shorter in term and typically carry higher rates.
How fast can a caveat loan settle?
Many caveat lenders can fund within 24–72 hours once the property equity and exit strategy are confirmed.
What are the typical rates on a caveat loan?
Caveat loan rates are higher than standard secured loans due to the short term and speed. Monthly rates typically range from 1.5% to 4%, with total cost depending on the loan amount and duration.