Loyalty is an honourable trait, but not necessarily when it comes to your home loan. Sticking with the same lender indefinitely may mean you’re paying what’s known as a ‘loyalty tax’. This often shows up as higher interest rates compared to what new customers are offered. With interest rates on the rise, now could be …
Are you secretly paying ‘loyalty tax’ on your home loan? Read More »
Home prices continue to climb across Australia. In October, national dwelling values rose 1.1% – the strongest monthly gain since June 2023. Several factors are fuelling the uptick in growth. One is the lack of housing supply in many markets. The expansion of the Australian Government’s 5% Deposit Scheme from 1 October also saw a surge in first …
4 steps to help you avoid overpaying for your first home Read More »
While some property investors prioritise rental yield – that is, how much income a property earns, as a percentage of its value – others see capital growth as the ultimate objective. There is no guaranteed way to predict the future capital growth of a suburb, but there are growth indicators that can be a strong …
From 1 October 2025, the government’s First Home Guarantee scheme will expand, making it possible for more Australians to buy a home with a deposit as low as 5%. Whether you’re preparing to buy your first property or simply watching how the market shifts, these updates could play a big role in shaping your plans …
Big changes to the First Home Buyers 5% Deposit Scheme Read More »
Buying an investment property in another state or territory can open the door to a range of new opportunities. From more affordable price points to higher rental yields and market diversification, there are plenty of reasons to look beyond your own backyard. But investing interstate also requires careful planning, local insight, and the right financial …
Buying beyond your backyard – a practical guide to investing interstate Read More »
If you’ve paid down your home loan somewhat or your property has appreciated in value, you may be able to use your home’s equity to fund an investment property purchase. Knowing how to use your home equity can help you achieve financial goals, but it’s important to weigh the risks, like increased debt and changing …
When it comes to taking out a home loan, all the options can be overwhelming. Should you go with a Big Four bank or a lender that’s less known? Is it best to choose a variable home loan or a fixed-rate loan in today’s lending environment? With so many questions to ponder, it’s little wonder …
The Labor party pulled off a landslide victory in the recent federal election. So, what does this mean from a housing perspective? If you’re an aspiring homeowner, here are the key campaign promises that may impact your buying plans. Keep in mind the measures will now need approval from the new Parliament, so be sure …
It’s Federal Budget time, so let’s cut to the chase. What’s in it for aspiring homeowners looking to purchase a property in 2025? Here are some of the key takeaways that could affect you. Purchasing property Help to Buy scheme Labor plans to boost its Help to Buy scheme by increasing income and property price …
The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has cut the cash rate and interest rates have come down. So, is now a good time to buy property? The answer depends on your unique circumstances and goals. But generally speaking, it’s always best to get a leg up on the property ladder sooner rather than later. Here …
