Confusing statements regarding access bond and bond extention.

I have a bond with Standard Bank which is left with less than 24 months to paying it off. on 02/10/23 I wanted to have access bond loaded but I understand that it can't be loaded because I am left with less than two years to settle my bond. I then requested that I get an extension on my bond in order to be able to access the funds. Today 03/10/2023, I got an SMS advising that it can not be done. What is confusing me is that, they always say that after paying off your bond you can keep your bond open in order to have access to the funds. How do I keep it open when I can't do ANTHING WITH THIS BOND. I need to do renovations to the house. I am denied privileges' that other clients are enjoying. I am frustrated because it means that Standard Bank need me to settle the bond and don't have access to funds that are available.