The fixed-rate trap You might be tempted to lock in a low interest rate for a couple of years so that you can have the peace of mind that comes with always knowing what your repayments will be. In my experience over the term of your loan you are very… Read more
Mortgage traps to avoid – Part 5
The government ‘Comparison Rates’ trap The government originally mandated ‘Comparison Rates’ as a way to make it easier for consumers to compare the true cost of a loan. But here’s the trick you may not have realized. Key Point: The Comparison Rate actually smooths out the appearance of any large… Read more
Mortgage traps to avoid – Part 4
The fees and charges trap Loan contracts can be very detailed, packed full of confusing words and legal disclaimers. One section that you should study with a magnifying glass is the ‘schedule of fees and charges’: $ Make sure you know whether you can make changes to your repayments. $… Read more
Want a first home buyer scheme spot? Here’s how to get the inside lane
We’re just days away from 35,000 first home buyer scheme spots becoming available on July 1. If you’re keen to snare a place in the scheme – and buy your first home sooner – here’s how to get ahead of the pack.
No more Mr Nice Guy: the ATO wants its money
Tax time is just around the corner and the ATO has sent out a warning to businesses around the country that owe it money: the COVID-19 moratorium on debt collection has come to an end. Rest assured though, you’ve got some options.
Refinancing numbers are surging across the country, here’s why
Rising interest rates got you feeling a little vulnerable? It might be time to take some control back by refinancing or asking for a rate review. Here’s why we’re seeing refinancing numbers surge across the country.
RBA increases cash rate for second consecutive month, to 0.85%
The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has increased the official cash rate by 50 basis points to 0.85%. How much extra should you expect to pay on your home loan?
Mortgage traps to avoid – Part 3
The honeymoon trap One of the most common mortgage traps, the honeymoon loan, often seems like a wonderful offer on the surface: “Low introductory rate for the first 12 months”. If you’re buying your first home, you might imagine this to be a great way to ease into home ownership… Read more