Interest Only vs Principal & Interest Loans: Which is better for investors?

Choosing the right loan isn’t just paperwork. It’s a move that can shape your investment strategy for years. Here’s the real talk on interest only and principal & interest loans.

What’s the difference?

  • Principal & Interest (P&I): Every repayment chips away at both the loan and the interest. Slowly but surely, your balance shrinks.
  • Interest Only (IO): For an agreed period (usually up to 5 years), you pay only the interest. Repayments stay low, the loan doesn’t budge.

On paper, P&I looks like the “responsible” choice. But investors know: the smartest play isn’t always the obvious one.

Interest only: Freeing up cash flow

Interest only isn’t dodging responsibility, it’s playing the long game. Lower repayments mean more freedom to move.

That could mean:

  • Snapping up another property sooner
  • Covering strata or maintenance without breaking stride
  • Keeping a healthy buffer that helps you sleep at night

And the kicker? Interest is generally tax deductible. Translation: you’re not punished for picking interest only.

The flip side? When the IO period ends, repayments jump if you move back to P&I. Smart investors plan for that pivot.

Principal & interest: Building equity slowly

P&I builds equity brick by brick. For many homeowners, that’s comforting. But investors? Different ballgame.

Paying down debt with after-tax income can tie up funds that could be working harder elsewhere. Still, P&I isn’t off the table. It makes sense when:

  • You want to reduce debt and improve future borrowing power
  • Your strategy is fewer properties, owned outright
  • You’ve got strong cash flow and prefer steady progress

So, which is better for investors?

There’s no universal answer. It comes down to your investment goals.

  • Interest Only suits growth-minded investors chasing flexibility, tax benefits, and portfolio expansion.
  • Principal & Interest suits investors who want the slow burn of debt reduction and long-term security.

The smartest move isn’t about choosing one over the other — it’s about aligning your loan type with your overall strategy.

Interest Only suits growth-minded investors chasing flexibility, tax benefits, and portfolio expansion.

1
2
3
4
5

The bottom line

Both loan types can deliver. The trick is knowing what you’re really playing for: growth, cash flow, or debt reduction.

Not sure which side of the fence you’re on? Talk to the finance team at DPN. We’ll cut through the noise and help you structure a loan strategy that’s bold, bankable, and built for your future.

The information provided is general in nature, it does not take your personal objectives, circumstances or needs into account. It is not specific advice and is not intended to be passed on or relied upon. Any indicative information and assumptions used may change without notice, particularly if based on past performance. Interest rates are subject to change. Finance approval is subject to terms and conditions and meeting lender approval criteria.

Let’s talk about you investing in property

No suits and no jargon - just smart moves for your money. Our friendly team are keen to chat about your goals.

Submit

Thank you

Your call has been successfully booked. One of our experts will be in touch to discuss your property investment needs.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

Related Articles

VIEW ALL ARTICLES

Subscribe to Parler

Educational articles on maximising returns
Detailed research pieces on high-growth regions
News on finance, lending and tax in Australia
Early access to webinars and exclusive events

Join our community

Each month you'll receive our newsletter with exclusive property research, investing tips & market alerts.

Submit

Thank you

You have now been successfully subscribed. We hope you enjoy all tips and resources from Parler.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

Are you ready to live the life you want?