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Sydney mortgage broker · Specialist in complex finance

Your mortgage shouldn't feel like your problem to solve.

I'm Tom - twenty years in institutional banking, now in your corner. I translate the complex into a clear strategy, whether you're buying your first home, landing in Sydney as an expat, or building a portfolio.

5.0 Google rating
20+ years institutional banking
Access to 40+ lenders
Tom Carr, mortgage broker and founder of Wombat Home Loans
Tom Carr Mortgage broker. Ex-banker. Sydney local.

Twenty years across global banking · Access to 40+ Australian lenders

Suncorp· UBank· Firstmac· CommBank· Westpac· NAB· ANZ· Macquarie· ING· Bankwest· HSBC· St.George· Pepper Money· Liberty· AMP· + 25 more·
Watch: A quick welcome from Tom

Forty seconds with Tom — what Wombat does, and how it works.

Who I help

Five borrower profiles. One careful broker.

Most brokers chase volume. I pick a smaller number of clients I can do excellent work for — usually people whose situation has a layer or two the high-street can't handle.

First-home buyers

Stamp duty schemes, the First Home Guarantee, parental guarantees — I'll walk you through what's actually available to you in plain English, and what each one really costs.

Expats & international professionals

Australians abroad buying back home. New arrivals on a 482, 186 or 189. Foreign currency income, complex residency, cross-border tax — situations most brokers quietly decline.

Property investors

Building a portfolio, refinancing for equity release, structuring loans across an SMSF or trust — all with an eye on serviceability across the next purchase, not just this one.

Refinancers

If your rate hasn't been reviewed in two years, you're almost certainly paying a loyalty tax. Quick health-check, honest answer on whether it's worth moving.

Why Wombat

I spent twenty years inside the banks. Now I work for you.

From global investment banks in London — to retail lending in Sydney.

Twenty-plus years across analytics, strategy, digital banking, and product leadership at some of the world's largest investment banks — and later Commonwealth Bank in Sydney. I've sat in the rooms where credit policy gets written, and seen exactly how banks decide who's a good risk and who isn't.

That insider view is the real value. Most rejection letters aren't "you can't afford this" — they're "you applied to the wrong lender for your situation." Knowing the difference is most of the job.

Tom Carr in a corporate setting

I live where you live. Sydney local. Runner. School volunteer.

"Wombat" comes from the Beecroft Wombats — our kids soccer team I used to coach. I'm originally from the UK, but Sydney's been home for around fifteen years, and Beecroft for most of those. I served as a volunteer non-executive director at the local primary school.

None of which is the reason to choose a broker. But it's the reason I built this business the way I did: people I'd want to bump into at Saturday parkrun deserve advice that holds up in daylight.

Tom Carr in the Community

I don't disappear at settlement.

Most brokers move on once the loan settles — that's when they get paid. Wombat works on an annual review model: every year I check your loan against the market, run the numbers, and tell you whether it's still the right deal. Most years it is. Sometimes it isn't. Either way you'll know.

And it costs you nothing. Lenders pay brokers for introducing the loan; the borrower never sees a bill. Australia's Best Interests Duty makes that more than a vibe — it's a legal requirement that I act in your interests, not the bank's.

Tom Carr, relaxed portrait
How it works

Four conversations between you and your keys.

Most of the work is mine. Yours is mostly answering questions and signing things.

The discovery call

Twenty minutes on Zoom. You tell me the situation; I tell you whether it's actually achievable, and roughly with whom. No paperwork yet — just a strategy.

The deep dive

We collect documents, build the file properly, and pre-position the application with two or three lenders that fit. Most brokers send you to one. I want options.

Application & approval

I lodge, follow up daily, and translate banker-speak back to you in plain English. You don't need to chase anyone. That's literally my job.

Settlement & beyond

Settlement happens. You get the keys. Then I check in every twelve months to see whether your loan is still the right one. For as long as you have it.

Reviews · 5.0 on Google

The clients who already lived through it.

Even with our unique circumstances that made acquiring a home loan more complicated, Tom took the time to understand our specific needs and worked tirelessly to find us the best rates on a loan product that was perfectly suited to us. Throughout the process, Tom was incredibly easy to communicate with — always responsive, approachable, and willing to go above and beyond.

Prai & Amanda · First Home Buyers ★★★★★

As a first-time homebuyer, the process was rather daunting, but Tom patiently walked me through every step, explained all my options, and guided me throughout the entire journey. He even referred me to a buyer's agent to get a second opinion on the property I was considering.

Andrew · First Home Buyer ★★★★★

Tom went above and beyond in terms of his service and the advice he provided to us. He had created some very clear and detailed financial scenarios for us, so that it was easy for us to understand and make a decision. He provided very honest and transparent advice.

Lars · Bridging Finance ★★★★★

Tom delivered excellent advice. He took the time to understand our unique financial needs and patiently explained every available option in clear, straightforward terms. His commitment to transparency was evident from start to finish.

Olga · Downsizer ★★★★★

Tom's amazing! Very approachable, friendly and knows his stuff. He brought our home ownership ambition a few years forward with his advice in every step of the process.

Abhi · Home Buyer ★★★★★

Tom has been absolutely awesome in guiding me through my first home loan and getting me the best rates possible that was unmatched by others. He's followed up on every little thing which is a blessing as I am quite new to all this and didn't know what to expect.

Ramesh · Investor ★★★★★

Tom is very professional, friendly, and always quick to respond to every query. He followed up on every detail diligently, making the whole process smooth and reducing the stress involved. Highly recommended!

Chandan · SMSF Investor ★★★★★

Very professional service by Tom. Highly recommend.

Gary · Overseas Investor ★★★★★

Tom was very helpful as it was my first time working with a mortgage broker and buying a rentvest property. He went above and beyond providing sage counsel through the process. We experienced a few hiccoughs along the journey but Tom was very diligent in finding alternative solutions.

Cameron · Investor ★★★★★

Absolutely genuine and trustworthy person. He has excellent knowledge of the market and took the time to clearly understand our long-term goals from the very beginning. Even though he could have earned more by pushing us towards an investment property, he genuinely put our best interests first and helped us buy our first home in Australia.

Rihaan & Reshma · First Home Buyers ★★★★★

Thank you so much for your support throughout our entire journey. We are truly grateful for your professionalism and exceptional services. We highly recommend Tom's services to anyone looking for a dedicated professional.

Chaba · Refinancer ★★★★★

Great working with Tom for our first SMSF property. Always available to provide advice on the steps required and kept great communication in regards to progress. Would definitely recommend for anyone looking for a home loan, in particular SMSF type.

Nic & Tracey · SMSF Investors ★★★★★
The Property Web · podcast

Long-form conversations about how Australian property actually works.

All 12 episodes
Episode 01 · Accounting

From corporate to accounting entrepreneur: Sarah Pyke's story.

Sarah Pyke · Accountant

Sarah Pyke on leaving the corporate world, building an accounting practice, and the financial foundations that matter when buying property.

Episode 02 · Real estate

Navigating Australian real estate: Janet Chiang's story.

Janet Chiang · Real Estate Agent

Janet Chiang on the realities of buying and selling in the Australian market — and what first-time buyers often get wrong.

Episode 03 · Property law

From dreams to reality: Wilson Tran's legal path.

Wilson Tran · Property Lawyer

Wilson Tran on the legal side of property — what buyers need to know before contracts are signed, and common mistakes to avoid.

Episode 04 · Buyer's agent

Unlocking property potential: insights from Rohit Gehlot.

Rohit Gehlot · Buyer's Agent

Rohit on going from corporate employee to buyer's agent, building a property portfolio, and what's happening in the Melbourne market.

Episode 05 · Financial planning

From the UK to Australia: how financial planner Scott Palmer made the move.

Scott Palmer · Financial Planner

Scott Palmer on the nuances of financial planning across borders, early investment habits, and navigating pensions and wealth management.

Episode 06 · Accounting & tech

From accountant to app founder: Alesha Masaud's story behind TaxApp.

Alesha Masaud · Founder, TaxApp

Alesha on her journey from Pakistan to Sydney, the challenges of building a digital-first accounting platform, and property investment insights.

Episode 07 · Buyer's agent

Navigating property investment.

Tim Watson · Buyer's Agent, Bricks to Wealth

Tim Watson on his move from corporate life to founding a buyer's agency, and what strategic property investment really looks like.

Episode 08 · PropTech

From coding to co-founding: the PiFi Property story.

Heshan Jayawardena · Co-Founder, PiFi Property

Heshan Jayawardena on building a platform that uncovers hidden potential in properties — and where AI is taking property search next.

Episode 09 · Wealth building

The missing piece in wealth building.

Roger Sousa · Financial Adviser, Asperum

Roger Sousa on the underrated role of financial defence alongside accumulation — protecting assets and planning for a secure retirement.

Episode 10 · Tax & structure

Tax, trusts, and structuring for internationals.

Molly Lim · Accountant, Above Advisory

Molly Lim on the trust myth, the hidden renovation tax trap, and how ambitious professionals should structure property ownership in Australia.

Episode 11 · Buyer's agent

Inspecting, not speculating: a guide to blue chip property.

Mark Horvat · Buyer's Agent, The Acquiry

Mark Horvat on why the 'best' investment isn't always the one with the highest yield — and how to evaluate property like an insider.

Episode 12 · Accountant

Architecting Wealth: Joy Ford Starts With Tax.

Joy Ford · Accountant & SMSF Specialist, Beyond Taxation

Joy Ford on why tax planning — not tax minimisation — is the foundation of every smart property and business decision.

Tools

Things I built to make the rest less of a fight.

AI Powered Property

Wombat Property Search

Live AU listings, filtered the way buyers actually think. Free to use (for now!).

Open the search →
LinkedIn

Regular updates

Quick reads on rate moves, lender behaviour, and how to get ahead. ~3.5k followers.

Connect on LinkedIn →
Newsletter

The Wombat Wrap

Monthly insights. Behind the scenes of my business and property finance tips worth knowing, in plain English.

Subscribe →
Articles

Plain-English writing on the bits that matter.

All articles

Expats & International Buyers

Renting in Australia and want to buy one day? Here's how to think about it.

If you're an international professional renting in Australia and wondering whether buying is realistic — this is for you. No pressure, no pitch. Just an honest map of the journey.

Read article →

Expats & International Buyers

Getting Mortgage-Ready Before You Land

A practical guide for international professionals buying property in Australia. Understand how your visa status shapes your lending options — and what to do before you arrive.

Read article →

First Home Buyers

Exchange of Contracts, 66W Certificates, and Finance Approval — What First-Time Buyers Need to Know

Can you get unconditional finance approval before signing a contract? Here's how exchange of contracts, cooling-off periods, and 66W certificates actually work for first-time buyers in NSW.

Read article →

Home Loans

Renovation Projects That a Buyer Should Not Purchase Without Addressing

When considering buying a home, it's important to differentiate between renovation issues that are deal-breakers if not addressed, and those that can be negotiated as part of the sale. Not all problem

Read article →

Home Loans

How to Handle a Mortgage After a Job Loss

The mortgage doesn't stop when your paycheck does. Losing a job while carrying a home loan is stressful — but it's a situation lenders have seen before, and there are real options available if you act

Read article →

Home Loans

How Marriage Affects Your Mortgage Options in Australia

Marriage marks the beginning of a new chapter filled with shared dreams and responsibilities — including, for many couples, the purchase of a home. Here's how tying the knot can influence your mortgag

Read article →

Home Loans

The Real Costs for Overseas Buyers

Approval fees, state surcharges and ongoing charges — a practical guide for foreign buyers in Australia. ATO Approval Fees (FIRB Residential Applications) Residential application fees are tiered to t

Read article →

Home Loans

Buying Property in Australia as a Mixed-Status Couple

Can one partner be a citizen and the other a foreign buyer? Here's how surcharges and approvals apply when couples co-own property in Australia. When one partner is an Australian citizen or permanent

Read article →

Home Loans

Buying Property in Australia: What Happens When You Get PR?

Moving from a temporary visa to permanent residency? Here's how your property buying rights and foreign purchaser surcharges change in Australia. Gaining Australian permanent residency (PR) changes yo

Read article →

Home Loans

How Trust Structures Can Help Protect Borrowing Capacity for Property Investors

Learn how using trusts in property investment can protect borrowing capacity, preserve cash flow, and support portfolio growth. How Banks Treat Properties in Your Own Name When you buy in your person

Read article →

Home Loans

Diversifying Your Property Investment Portfolio

Property investment in Australia has long been a favoured route for building wealth. But as with any investment class, concentration in one area carries risk. Diversification is the key to mitigating

Read article →

Home Loans

Split Loans Explained

When they make sense and how to use them well. Interest rates move in cycles, and whenever the market enters a period of uncertainty, borrowers naturally start looking for ways to balance stability wi

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Home Loans

Guarantor Loan Risks

Guarantor loans can be an attractive option for borrowers with limited savings — but it's crucial to understand the potential downsides before anyone signs on the dotted line. Anyone with access to a

Read article →

Home Loans

How Offset Accounts Could Save You Thousands on Your Home Loan

Including an offset account in your home loan strategy could potentially save you thousands of dollars over the life of your loan. Here's how they work and when they make sense. What Are Offset Accounts

Read article →

Home Loans

How to Improve Your Credit Score Before Applying for a Mortgage

When you're contemplating the purchase of a home, your credit score becomes more than just a number — it's a reflection of your financial reliability and can be the key to unlocking favourable mortgag

Read article →

Home Loans

7 Ways a Mortgage Broker Saves You Time and Money

A mortgage broker can be a valuable ally when it comes to securing a home loan. They have the expertise and connections to streamline the process and potentially save you both time and money. Here are

Read article →

Property Investors

Interest-only vs principal & interest: which loan structure suits investors?

The right structure depends on your cash flow, tax position, and investment strategy — not just the rate. Here's a breakdown for Australian property investors.

Read article →

Complex Finance

Self-employed and buying property: how lenders assess your income

Business owners and contractors often face extra scrutiny. Here's how lenders assess self-employed income — and how to present yours in the best light.

Read article →

Strategy

Fixed vs variable rate: what to consider when choosing your home loan

There's no universal right answer — but there is a right answer for your situation. Walk through the trade-offs of fixed and variable rates for Australian home loans.

Read article →

Refinancing

When does it actually make sense to refinance? A practical framework

Refinancing isn't always the right move. Rate savings need to outweigh costs, timing matters, and switching at the wrong moment can set you back. Here's how to think it through.

Read article →

Home Loans

Buying Property Without Australian PR or Citizenship

Who can buy, what you can buy, and the approvals you'll need as a "foreign person" under Australian law. Who Counts as a "Foreign Person"? For residential property rules, you're a

Read article →

Expats & International Buyers

Getting a home loan as an Australian expat: what the banks don't tell you

Lending to expats involves foreign income, overseas assets, and currency risk. Most lenders shy away — but with the right approach, a competitive loan is absolutely possible.

Read article →

Home Loans

How Should You Prepare for a Mortgage Broker Meeting?

Meeting with a mortgage broker is one of the most important steps in the home buying journey. Coming prepared makes the difference between a productive session and one that requires multiple follow-up

Read article →

Home Loans

All You Need to Know About the Home Loan Pre-Approval Process

In Australia, the loan pre-approval process — also known as conditional approval or approval in principle — is a preliminary step in the home buying journey that tells you how much a lender is willing

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First Home Buyers

How much can I actually borrow? A straight-talking guide to borrowing capacity

Online calculators give you a number, but lenders look at far more than your income. Here's what actually drives your borrowing capacity — and how to improve it before you apply.

Read article →

Home Loans

Guidelines for First Time Buyers

The very first step when entering your first home buying journey should be to speak to your local mortgage broker. They will assist you with all the points listed below and in most cases come at no co

Read article →
Frequently asked

The questions most people start with.

Does it cost anything to use a mortgage broker?

No. Wombat Home Loans is paid by the lender when your loan settles. There is no cost to the borrower. Under Australia's Best Interests Duty, brokers are legally required to act in your interests.

Can you help if I'm an Australian living overseas?

Yes. This is one of Wombat's specialist areas. Tom works with Australian expats in the UK, US, Singapore, Hong Kong, the UAE, and elsewhere who are buying investment property back home or planning their return.

Can you help if I have foreign income?

Yes. Different lenders treat foreign income very differently — some accept 100% of GBP or USD income, others apply heavy haircuts, others won't consider it at all. Tom's specialty is matching your income profile to lenders that will recognise it properly.

How many lenders do you work with?

40+ lenders, covering the big four banks, second-tier banks, non-bank lenders, and specialist lenders for non-standard cases.

Are you Australia-wide or just Sydney?

Australia-wide via Zoom. Tom is based in Sydney, but the majority of meetings are remote.

Tom Carr
Let's start

Book the call. Twenty minutes. Genuinely no obligation.

Tell me your situation. I'll tell you what's possible — even if the answer is "not yet," and even if the answer is "use someone else." Zero cost, zero pressure, zero salesy follow-up sequences.