Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about asset finance, eligibility, and working with SERV Finance.
Getting Started
How does working with a finance broker work?
A finance broker acts as an intermediary between you and lenders. Rather than approaching lenders yourself, we assess your situation, identify suitable options from a panel of lenders, and manage the application process on your behalf. You deal with the same broker throughout.
Is there a cost to use SERV Finance?
We charge a brokerage fee for our service. We may also receive a commission from the lender when a loan is settled. Both will be disclosed to you before you proceed.
What information do I need to get started?
To begin, we just need a general understanding of what you're looking to finance and your situation. We'll let you know what documentation is needed once we understand your circumstances.
Can you help me buy and finance my first car?
Yes. Buying your first car can feel overwhelming — choosing the right vehicle, understanding finance options, and knowing what you can actually afford. We can help you work out a realistic budget, explain the loan structures available to first-time buyers, and manage the finance application from start to finish. If you'd like help finding the vehicle as well, we offer a vehicle sourcing service at no additional cost.
Eligibility & Approval
Will I qualify for finance?
Eligibility depends on your individual circumstances, including income, credit history, employment type, and the asset being financed. We can give you a realistic assessment before any formal application is submitted.
Does applying affect my credit score?
A formal credit application involves a credit enquiry, which can affect your score. We'll discuss your situation first so you understand your options before any application is lodged.
Can I get finance with bad credit?
Some lenders work with applicants who have credit history issues. Options depend on the nature and age of any adverse history. We can assess your situation and advise honestly on what may be available.
I'm self-employed — can I still get finance?
Yes. Self-employed applicants are assessed differently by lenders. SERV Finance has experience working with sole traders, contractors, and business owners to find suitable options.
I'm on a visa — can I apply?
Some lenders will consider visa holders depending on visa type and remaining duration. We can advise on which lenders may be suitable for your situation.
I'm an apprentice — can I get finance?
Yes, apprentices can qualify for finance. Lenders assess apprentice income differently to fully qualified tradespeople, but many will consider TAFE/training wages alongside any supplementary income. The loan amount and term will generally reflect your current income level. Whether you're an apprentice plumber, electrician, carpenter, or in any other trade, it's worth having a conversation — we can give you a realistic picture of what's available at your stage.
Can I get finance if I receive Centrelink payments?
Yes, in some cases. Most mainstream lenders require employment income as the primary source, but a number of specialist lenders will consider Centrelink payments — either as a supplement to other income or, in some situations, as the primary income source. The outcome depends on the type of payment, the amount, and the asset being financed. It's worth having a conversation before assuming you won't qualify.
Do family payments or government benefits count as income for finance?
Some lenders will accept government payments such as Family Tax Benefit, Parenting Payment, Carer Payment, and similar as part of your income assessment. Not all lenders treat these the same way, which is where having access to a broad panel of lenders makes a difference. We can assess your full income picture and identify which lenders are likely to consider your application.
I'm receiving income protection payments — can I still apply for finance?
Income protection payments are generally considered by lenders as a form of income, though treatment varies. Some lenders will accept them in full; others may apply a loading or require additional documentation. The key factors are the insurer, the payment duration remaining, and whether you have any other income. We can work through your situation and advise on realistic options.
I want to start a courier or delivery business — can I get finance for a vehicle?
Yes. Financing a vehicle to start a courier or delivery business is something we deal with regularly. Whether you're setting up as an owner-operator for a platform like Amazon Flex, DoorDash, or Uber Eats, or starting an independent delivery run, lenders will assess your situation based on the business structure, your income history, and the vehicle being financed. New businesses can be more complex to place, but there are lenders who specialise in this. It's worth having a conversation before you assume it won't work.
I'm already doing deliveries — can I upgrade or add another vehicle?
Absolutely. If you're already operating and generating income from courier or delivery work, that trading history works in your favour. Lenders will want to see evidence of income — bank statements, tax returns, or BAS statements depending on how long you've been operating. The longer you've been trading, the more options are generally available. We can assess where you sit and identify the most suitable lenders for your situation.
Loans & Repayments
Can I finance a luxury or exotic car — Porsche, Ferrari, Lamborghini, McLaren?
Yes. Prestige and exotic vehicles are assessed differently by lenders — loan-to-value ratios, age restrictions, and acceptable marques vary significantly between lenders. We work with lenders who are comfortable with high-value vehicles including Porsche, Ferrari, Lamborghini, McLaren, Bentley, Aston Martin, Maserati, BMW M-series, Mercedes-AMG, and similar. A balloon payment structure is often used to keep repayments manageable on higher-value loans. Whether you're buying from a dealer, privately, or at auction, we can identify which lenders are likely to work for your specific vehicle and situation.
Can I finance a grey import or parallel import vehicle?
Yes. We work with specialist lenders who are comfortable with complied grey imports and parallel imports — including JDM vehicles like the Nissan GT-R (R32, R33, R34), Toyota Supra, Honda NSX, Mazda RX-7, and Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, as well as European-spec prestige vehicles. Most mainstream lenders decline grey imports outright; specialist lenders assess compliance status, vehicle age, and valuation differently. Key factors are the compliance plate (SEVS or RAW), vehicle age, and your borrower profile. We have a dedicated page covering grey import finance in detail at servfinance.com.au/services/grey-import-finance.
What is a balloon payment?
A balloon (or residual) payment is a lump sum due at the end of the loan term. It reduces your regular repayments but means a larger amount is owed at the end. Whether a balloon suits you depends on your cash flow and plans for the asset — we can explain the trade-offs.
What loan terms are available?
Loan terms typically range from one to seven years for most asset types, though this varies by lender and product. We'll discuss what terms are available for your specific situation.
Can I pay out my loan early?
Most loans can be paid out early, though some lenders charge an early termination fee. We'll make sure you understand any break costs before you commit.
What's the difference between a secured and unsecured loan?
A secured loan uses an asset (usually the item being financed) as security. An unsecured loan does not. Secured loans may offer lower rates, depending on the lender, purpose and asset — but the lender can repossess the asset if you default. We'll explain the options available to you.
Working with SERV Finance
Do I need to come into an office?
No. We work with clients throughout Brisbane and Queensland remotely. Everything can be handled by phone, email, or video call.
How do I get in touch?
The easiest way is to submit an enquiry through the website or call us directly on 0408 710 710. All enquiries are handled personally.
What happens after I enquire?
We'll contact you to understand your situation, discuss your options, and explain the process. There's no obligation to proceed.