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
Banks tighten lending, reducing the maximum you can borrow
Some of Australia’s biggest banks have tightened their mortgage lending criteria, meaning you might not be able to borrow as much from them. How might this affect your next purchase?
Bulk of SMEs preparing for growth over next 12 months: research
Small businesses around the nation are once again confident about their future and ready to start driving toward their next phase of growth, according to new research.
ATO hit list: rental property income and capital gains
Property investors beware: the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) has revealed the four key areas it will be targeting this tax year, and rental property income/deductions and capital gains are high on the hit list.
The two major parties’ first home buyer policies explained
Housing affordability is one of the key battlegrounds ahead of the federal election this Saturday. So what is each of the two major parties proposing to help first home buyers crack the market? Let’s take a look.
EOFY alert! Financial year-end is fast approaching
Small business owners wanting to buy a vehicle, asset or important piece of equipment and immediately write off the cost have just over a month to act this financial year.
Ready for lift-off: how to prepare a buffer for more rate rises
Rate rises are a bit like taking off in a plane. Sure, it’s a bit nervy, but so long as you’ve run through your pre-flight check, have a well-serviced aircraft, built-in some contingencies (a buffer!), and have a handy co-pilot (us!), you should reach your destination no worries.
Mortgage traps to avoid – Part 2
The ‘where is the branch?’ trap Does it really matter if your lender doesn’t have branches for you to walk into? The reality is that if they have a physical branch you are very likely paying more for the privilege. In an age where everything you need to do with… Read more