Home Loans and Mortgages

Prepare for rate rises or risk needing a second job
Australians are inadequately prepared to cover the rising costs of home loan repayments following the anticipated return to more 'normal' interest rate levels in the coming months.

First time buyers double dip
An increasing number of first home buyers are considering looking to their family to provide a deposit to help them get on the property ladder, on top of government grants.

Think outside the city
Why do people continue to live in a capital city when there are plenty of great opportunities outside of these regions, particularly in the largest regional centres?

Is the Australian dream dead?
The dream of home ownership for many Australians is just that - a dream. The question is whether the average Australian's income is sufficient to be able to afford the average Australian home.

Recession-proof your property
The Australian Bureau of Statistics says our nation's homes have slipped in price by nearly 7 per cent in the last year. But good, quality homes sell even in a bad market and here are five reasons why.

Is your mortgage causing you stress?
More and more Australians are finding themselves in financial difficulty. Here is a five-step plan to help you get back on your feet and get your finances under control.

Property taxes through the roof
Residents of Australia are confronted with many taxes but not a lot of people would be aware that collectively state and local governments raked in just over $31 billion in property-related taxes in the last financial year.

Save now and you won't pay later
We all want to move into our first home as soon as possible, but there are some sound reasons waiting until a reasonable deposit is saved is the way to go, even if it means having to wait a bit longer.

A lower interest rate could cost you more
That cheaper rate might turn out to be an expensive mistake. Peter Boehm explains why it's important to do a cost/benefit analysis before switching from fixed to variable loans.

First-time home buyers getting ripped off
The inconsistent treatment of the first home buyer is creating an uneven playing field, with first home buyers in some States reaping the benefits others are not.

Over half of Aussies fear global depression
The possibility of depression is looking likely according to these statistics - how depressing.

Buying a Home - One Step at a Time
Over half of all first time buyers believe that now is a good time to enter the property market, but they are dipping their toes before taking the plunge.

Dream of owning home still strong
The average Aussie's dream of owning their own home is stronger than even their Christmas wish list it seems.

Rate cuts and the housing market
The latest aggressive rate cut has resulted in a welcome housing boost - but how will it affect you?

The need for 1st time home buyers
The importance of first time buyers to the housing industry should not be underestimated.

Refinancing Your Home Loan
As the property market in Australia continues to show signs of softening, many lenders are discounting interest rates and offering more attractive deals in a bid to win new customers.

Find extra cash to lower your mortgage
Finding additional cash doesn't always have to mean getting a second job. People don't realise that simple changes can lead to big savings.

Can't make your mortgage repayments?
It can be stressful if you find yourself unable to meet your mortgage repayments. But there is almost always a solution.

Tips for singles looking to escape the rental rut
Such a liberating lifestyle choice shouldn't restrict a single person's desire to achieve another type of dream - the great Australian one of owning a home.

Home Loans Tips
Purchasing a home is a major financial decision and involves a high degree of stress. However, there are several things you can do to smooth the process.