5 min

Understanding the Types of Asset Finance Loans

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Asset finance allows businesses to access the equipment, vehicles or tools they need without large upfront costs. Whether it’s purchasing a single vehicle or funding a full machinery fleet, asset finance provides flexible funding solutions that help preserve cash flow and support growth. 

If you’re an asset finance broker, understanding the types of loans available is key to matching clients with the right solution. At Fintelligence, we partner with brokers across Australia to help them deliver a wider range of finance options, powered by a broad lender panel and supported by our purpose-built CRM platform, Ambition Cloud. 


Here’s an overview of the most common types of asset finance loans. 


1. Chattel Mortgage 

A chattel mortgage is one of the most widely used asset finance products. The client owns the asset from day one, while the lender takes it as security for the loan. 

Best suited for: 

Businesses that want ownership upfront and may benefit from potential GST and depreciation advantages. 


2. Commercial Hire Purchase 

Under a commercial hire purchase (CHP) arrangement, the lender purchases the asset and the business hires it over an agreed term. Ownership transfers once the final payment is made. 

Best suited for: 

Businesses that want to manage cash flow with flexible repayments, before taking ownership of the asset. 


3. Finance Lease 

In a finance lease, the lender owns the asset and leases it to the business. At the end of the lease term, the business may choose to purchase the asset, upgrade it or return it. 

Best suited for: 

Businesses that want asset access without the upfront cost or long-term ownership obligations. 


4. Operating Lease or Rental 

An operating lease allows businesses to rent the asset for a set period and return it at the end. The lender retains ownership throughout. 

Best suited for: 

Businesses with short-term or changing asset needs, such as those using technology or seasonal equipment. 


5. Novated Lease 

A novated lease is a three-way agreement between an employee, their employer and a finance provider. It allows an employee to lease a vehicle using pre-tax income through salary packaging. 

Best suited for: 

Employees looking to finance a personal vehicle in a tax-effective way, often as part of an employer benefit. 


Helping Brokers Offer More Choice 

Fintelligence partners with brokers to streamline the delivery of these finance options. Our aggregation model provides access to a diverse panel of lenders, covering consumer, commercial and specialist asset finance products. Whether you’re assisting with a truck purchase, a yellow goods upgrade or a novated lease, we help you find the right product fast. 

Through Ambition Cloud, brokers can manage leads, track applications, automate compliance and ensure every deal progresses smoothly. 


Broker testimonial 

As Daniel Butler, Director of Finance 101, shares: 

“Our clients love the speed and simplicity. With Fintelligence, we can offer a broader range of finance options and get deals done faster. Their platform just makes everything easier – for us and for the customer.” 



Ready to Grow Your Brokerage? 

Fintelligence gives brokers the tools, support and systems to confidently offer a wide range of asset finance products – while saving time and delivering a better client experience. 

Whether you’re new to asset finance or scaling up your team, we’re here to help you grow your business with confidence. 

Get in touch to learn more about becoming a Fintelligence broker partner

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