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 homebuyer activity and added demand to the lower and middle price points of the market. The scheme has made it easier for first home

The festive season is a time to celebrate, relax and connect with loved ones, but it can also put extra pressure on the household budget. With the rising cost of living, a little planning can go a long way towards keeping the season merry without overspending. The festive season can be expensive, especially with the current cost-of-living crisis and increasing financial pressures on households. A study by ASIC last year found that Aussies estimated they would spend an averag

Imagine waking up in a cosy mountain retreat or in a beach shack overlooking the ocean – all in your very own holiday home. Sounds dreamy, right? Whether you’re after a sea change, a tree change, or simply a place to unwind, investing in a holiday home can be an attractive way to diversify your property portfolio and create a retreat to escape to. But before you turn this dream into a reality, here are a few reality checks you may need to consider before you dive in. Plan how

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 sign that property prices will increase. In the current buying climate, with historically low listings and strong demand for available properties, doing your homework

Following three cash rate cuts so far this year, the lending and borrowing environment in Australia has changed drastically. As a result, more and more borrowers are breaking out of ‘mortgage prison’ and refinancing their home loans to more competitive options. If you’ve been trapped with the same lender for some time, you may be able to break free and find a more suitable home loan elsewhere. What is mortgage prison? While there are no barred windows, high walls or guard tow

First home buyers can now purchase a property with as little as 5 per cent deposit without copping lenders’ mortgage insurance, after the government’s expanded First Home Guarantee Scheme came into effect on 1 October. It’s expected that  70,000 first home buyers  will make the most of the scheme in its first year of expanded access. If you’re looking to purchase your first home, there are a few common mistakes to be aware of before you dive in. But first, let’s take a look a

Refinancing Options With interest rates falling this year, more Australians are taking a fresh look at their home loans. In fact, close...

Home Buying a home comes with one of the biggest decisions you’ll face – do you go for a brand new build or choose an established...

First Home Guarantee Scheme From 1 October 2025, the government’s First Home Guarantee scheme will expand, making it possible for more...

Analysis Inflation has been heading in the right direction and the Reserve Bank of Australia has cut the cash rate three times in 2025....

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Offset vs Redraw If you’re planning to buy your first home this spring, you’re not alone. It’s one of the busiest times in the property...

With today’s cost-of-living pressures, winter can be a challenging time financially for households, especially with soaring electricity...

If you’re new to buying property, you’ll want to understand your credit report and how it may impact your home loan application. Think of...

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...

As the end of financial year approaches, now is the time to take stock of your finances, including your home loan. Whether you own your...

If you’re looking to buy a property, it’s important to remember that your gambling habits could be taken into account when you apply for...

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...

Tax time might not be everyone’s favourite season, but it it’s a great chance to tidy up your finances. If you own an investment...

Retirement often conjures up images of afternoons on a golf course or adventures in a motorhome, of growing your own vegetables or...