Business Details
16 Years
experience
Your Trusted Mortgage Broker on the Mornington Peninsula
We Know Loans is a family-owned and operated mortgage brokerage established in 2010, serving clients across the Mornington Peninsula and surrounding regions. Founded by Pauline and Derek Bignell, our business combines over 25 years of combined industry experience with a commitment to personalized service and community engagement. We specialize in first home buyer loans, next home buyer solutions, commercial financing, and equity release products, leveraging relationships with Australia's largest lenders to deliver tailored financial solutions.Our team holds accreditations from the Mortgage & Finance Association of Australia (MFAA), Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA), and SEQUAL (Senior Australians Equity Release Association of Lenders). With offices in Somerville and Mount Martha, we pride ourselves on transparency, integrity, and ongoing client support throughout the entire loan lifecycle.
Services
First Home Buyers
Next Home Buyers
Commercial Loans
Equity Release
Car Loans
Details
- Year established: 2010
Highlights and features
- We offer 15+ years of combined mortgage broking experience with SEQUAL accreditation
- Our team provides personalized loan solutions tailored to individual financial circumstances
- Local Mornington Peninsula knowledge for property market insights
- We maintain relationships with Australia's largest commercial lenders
- Ongoing post-settlement support for loan management and refinancing needs
Associations and certifications
- Australian Credit Licence Number 389328
- Mortgage & Finance Association of Australia (MFAA)
- Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA)
- SEQUAL (Senior Australians Equity Release Association of Lenders)
What people say
Top shelf bloke
Smooth process
Unbelievable rate
Go the extra mile
$450 monthly savings
Services
First Home Buyers
We specialize in guiding first-time home buyers through the entire loan process. Our experts help clients understand deposit requirements, government concessions, and loan structures to secure optimal financing. With personalized pre-approvals and ongoing support, we simplify the journey from initial inquiry to property settlement while explaining all associated costs and requirements.
Commercial Loans
Our commercial lending solutions cater to business owners seeking property investments or operational funding. We connect clients with specialized lenders for office spaces, retail premises, and industrial properties. The team provides expert advice on loan terms, refinancing options, and capital growth strategies while maintaining relationships with major Australian commercial lenders to secure competitive rates.
Equity Release
SEQUAL-accredited advisors offer seniors equity release solutions to access home equity without monthly repayments. We explain reverse mortgage terms, eligibility criteria, and payment options including lump sums or regular income streams. Our guidance ensures clients understand the long-term implications while helping them achieve financial flexibility for retirement needs.
Car Loans
We provide vehicle financing solutions for personal and business use. Our specialists help clients compare loan terms, interest rates, and repayment structures for new or used car purchases. With flexible application processes and evening availability, we streamline vehicle financing while ensuring clients understand all contractual obligations and insurance requirements.
Loan Refinancing
Our ongoing loan review service helps clients optimize existing mortgages through refinancing opportunities. We analyze current loan features, interest rates, and market alternatives to identify potential savings. This service includes detailed comparisons of repayment structures, fee analysis, and assistance with transitioning to more suitable loan products when beneficial.
People
Pauline Bignell
Director
With 20 years in mortgage broking since joining Aussie Home Loans in 2004, Pauline holds SEQUAL accreditation and MFAA membership. She combines problem-solving skills with community involvement, volunteering for Share the Dignity and I Matter Foundation while managing client relationships and loan structuring.
Derek Bignell
Director
A mortgage broker since 2006, Derek specializes in first home buyer solutions and maintains strong local community ties through sports club involvement. With commercial finance expertise and MFAA accreditation, he focuses on building long-term client relationships while managing complex loan scenarios.
Ian Lane
Vehicle Finance Specialist
Joining in 2021, Ian specializes in car loans with a Certificate IV in Finance and Mortgage Broking. He focuses on making vehicle financing stress-free for younger buyers while offering flexible service hours. His background in emergency services brings structured problem-solving to loan applications.
Leanne Christie
Loan Administrator
Supporting the team since 2020, Leanne manages loan processing and client communication. With prior experience in early childhood education, she transitioned to finance administration, ensuring regulatory compliance and smooth loan progression from application to settlement.
Questions
What loan options are available for first home buyers?
We offer specialized first home buyer loans with competitive rates, including government grants and low-deposit options. Our brokers explain all requirements and help maximize savings through available concessions.
Can I refinance my existing mortgage?
Yes, we review current loans to identify refinancing opportunities for better rates or features. Our analysis includes exit fees, new loan terms, and potential long-term savings to determine optimal solutions.
What commercial finance options do you offer?
We provide financing for office spaces, retail properties, and industrial sites. Our services include new construction, renovations, and asset acquisition financing through relationships with major commercial lenders.
How does equity release work?
Equity release allows seniors to access home equity without monthly repayments. Funds can be received as lump sums or regular payments, with interest capitalized onto the loan balance until property sale or estate settlement.
Do you offer after-settlement support?
Yes, we provide ongoing loan management including annual health checks, refinancing opportunities, and assistance with changing financial circumstances to ensure continued suitability of your mortgage product.
