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Home loan process and terminology explained

There’s nothing like being formally approved by a lender for a home loan. It’s your green light to buy the property you have your heart set on. Borrowers who have taken the necessary steps in the pre-application phase will be in a strong position to secure the property they want. Here, we explain how to get formally […]

Take control of your budget

Getting your budget under control and your finances in order is absolutely essential to anyone looking to apply for a home loan, but it’s particularly important for first-home buyers about to take the first step on the property ladder. Here are a few things to consider to get financially fit for a home loan application […]

Stamp duty explained

If you’ve never bought property before, you may not understand what stamp duty is. In a nutshell, stamp duty is a tax. It’s not very exciting, but it’s one of those things that goes hand in hand with purchasing a property. Navigating stamp duty can be tricky. In this article, we explain what stamp duty […]

Your suburb research checklist

The golden rule in real estate is “location, location, location”, but how do you know a suburb is right for you when you find it? Whether you are buying an investment property or a home, finding an area that meets your needs is paramount. Here are some things to consider when deciding on a suburb. […]

Is your credit report healthy?

One of the things lenders take into consideration when assessing your ability to repay a loan is your credit report. As part of the loan application process, they’ll assess your financial history, including any previous credit applications you’ve made and any payments you may have defaulted on. If you’re in the market to buy a […]

Should you refinance now?

With millions of Australian homeowners likely to be slugged with higher mortgage repayments due to the cash rate hikes, there’s one question on everyone’s lips. Is now a good time to refinance? While it depends largely on your individual situation and goals, there are mounting reasons why refinancing should be on your radar. At the […]

Smart ways to save for a deposit

Owning your own home is one of the major life goals for most people. Saving for a deposit can seem daunting at first, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are a number of things to consider to get you started and on track for homeownership sooner than you think. Analyse your current financial situation […]

Planning for the life ahead

There’s a wonderful feeling that comes with on being the home straight towards retirement. Post-career life conjures up thoughts of freedom and leisure with time to do all the things you’ve been putting on the backburner. So, are you ready? Have you put in the time to plan what retirement looks like for you? Preparation […]

The search for your dream home

Buying your first home or investment property can be an emotionally charged process just like planning for your next holiday. Getting caught up in the excitement and easily distracted by the more gripping things like fun activities and what bikini to pack all while forgetting the important basics like transport and accommodation.  Buying a home […]

What do you know about your credit report?

Ever had someone ask you for $50 and promise to pay you back within a week? And if they didn’t, would you be inclined to lend them $50 again? Well, that’s how a lender looks at you, the borrower. It’s why most lenders take your credit report into consideration when assessing your suitability for a […]

Are you good saver?

2020 and 2021 have been years like no other! With the new financial year upon us, now is the perfect time to consider your financial goals for the next 12 months, and the best place to start is with a good money management plan. We’ll share some great tips in this article. But first, complete […]

Why you need a Mortgage Broker

The role of a mortgage broker is to guide you through the home loan journey and help you choose the right product or feature for you. Our role is to work closely with a panel of lenders — from the big banks, to the smaller lenders you may not be as familiar with — to […]

Home Loan Health Check

With a home loan, clients tend to just “set and forget”. But it’s sensible to review your home loan every two to three years. Life happens and our circumstances are always changing where interest rates can go up and down, new lenders emerge and more competitive products become available so keeping the same home loan […]

When to leave your Lender

Valentine’s day makes us think about loyalty – which is an admirable quality in any relationship. But is your devotion to your home loan provider justified?  It’s important to ask your mortgage broker to help you review your home loan from time to time. We’re here to check the interest rate, review it’s features and […]

Smart ways to manage your Christmas debts

Did your Christmas spending get out of hand this year? You are not alone! According to a recent news report, our 2019 Christmas spending binge is expected to leave us with a $29.7 billion credit card debt – that’s equivalent to $1,863 per credit card! The good news is that mortgage and finance brokers don’t just […]

4 habits of successful property investors

Australians love investing in property, and it’s no wonder why. The property market offers a myriad of opportunities to potentially grow wealth, irrespective of one’s professional background or skillset. However, there are certain habits that successful property investors often have in common. Let’s take a look. They are proactive about self-education In order to stay […]

Four signs it may be time to refinance

Do you know what happened after the Reserve Bank cut the cash rate in June? Tens of thousands of Aussies took the Treasurer’s advice to “shop around and get the best possible deal”. Mortgage brokers around the country have recorded spikes in their home loan, investment loan and refinance borrower enquiries following the announcement. The moral of […]

Rentvesting: Everything you need to know

Rentvesting has become increasingly popular in recent times. Last year, research from the Property Investment Professionals of Australia (PIPA) found that one-third of first-time buyers opted to become ‘rentvestors’, rather than homeowners. Here’s what you need to know before deciding whether rentvesting is right for you. But first, let’s look at an age-old question.  To rent […]

5 Reasons to buy a home during the holiday season

Everyone looks forward to Christmas and the summer holiday season. After all, ‘tis the season to be jolly. To indulge in festive fare. To get out in the great outdoors and enjoy quality time with family and friends. But this year, it could also be the right time to buy a home. Here are 5 […]

Preparing for the Spring property season

The busy Spring property season is just around the corner and you know what that means? Whether you’re planning to buy or sell, NOW is the time to start getting organised. Here’s how. Tips if you’re planning to BUY this Spring: Get your finance sorted pronto There’s no point starting the property hunt until you […]

Bank Guarantees vs Deposit Bonds

A bank guarantee is an undertaking issued by a bank to a beneficiary for a specific amount of money that has the effect of guaranteeing the liabilities or commitments of one party to another.  A bank guarantee cannot be issued unless the bank has some type of asset security backing the face value of the […]

Why your broker is your friend for life

How you use your income and available credit can make a huge difference to your lifestyle, so it’s very important to get it right. That means getting reliable, ongoing advice and support from a professional credit advisor you know and trust. Your mortgage and finance broker can help you with all your big purchases, throughout […]

Construction loans -what you need to know

Here’s an overview of what’s involved if you’re considering building a new home for the first time. What’s your budget? The first step to building a home is deciding what you can afford to spend. When buying a home that’s already built, determining how much money you need is quite straightforward. However, it’s not so […]

Property investor profiles – what type are you?

In Australia, it’s possible for just about anyone with a deposit to invest in property, whether you are a low-income earner on a tight budget or a well-off with loads of disposable income. Interest rates are very low at the moment and home prices are more affordable than they’ve been for a while. So, if […]

Living expenses: how does it effect your borrowing capacity?

You may be surprised to discover that how much you spend on day-to-day living can considerably reduce the amount you are eligible to borrow, even if you are a high-income earner. So, if you’re planning to buy a home, it may be time to cut back on some of life’s little luxuries and set yourself […]

Choosing the right loan for your next home?

Whether you’re upsizing, downsizing or just moving to a home in a new location, no doubt things have changed since buying your last home. This article explains the finance options available when you’re moving on to your next home. We also highlight a few other key considerations to think about. How do you get from […]

Property Management 101 – 6 Tips for new landlords

6 Tips for Managing Your Investment Property An investment property is a business, so managing it properly is very important to your financial success. One of the first decisions you’ll need to make is whether to manage the investment property yourself or to employ the services of a property manager. If you’re thinking of managing […]

How can we help you buy business equipment?

Maximise Your Business Cash Flow and Tax Advantages with Equipment Finance Options With the end of the financial year fast approaching, now is a great time to purchase a work vehicle or equipment for your business. The Federal Government passed legislation last year to extend and increase the instant asset tax write-off for small businesses. That means […]

How to compare home loans and features

Which home loan is right for you? How can you tell when there’s so many different lenders, loan types and features to choose from? How can you compare loans properly when you’re not sure what you should be comparing? Finding the right home loan for your situation is a process that can be confusing, particularly […]

Do your tenants have pets?

Laws have been introduced to make it harder for landlords to refuse requests by tenants to keep pets, in most states. However, allowing pets to live in your investment property can be a double-edged sword. On the one hand, you’ll have a wider pool of prospective tenants, potentially increasing your rental returns and helping you […]

4 Ways to avoid risk when buying property this Autumn

It may be a buyer’s market, but when property prices are falling, buyer confidence often goes with it. However, the possibility of paying too much is not the only risk a home buyer or property investor can face when market conditions are undergoing significant change, as they are now. In this article, we outline some […]

What does a ‘buyer’s market’ mean for you?

Some property market analysts are predicting average national home values could fall by 11 per cent in 2019 – and say home values in some suburbs of Melbourne and Sydney have already fallen by more than 7 per cent since they reached their peak in late 2017.  Whilst this may seem like gloom and doom […]

What’s the right loan for your renovation?

Renovating your home or investment property is a fantastic way to add value. But what’s the right way to finance the renovation project you have in mind? There are several ways to finance a renovation – the option that will work best for you depends on the size of your project, your budget, financial circumstances […]

5 Common Mistakes of First Home Buyers

Getting ready to buy your first home? As your mortgage broker, we’re here to help you every step of the way. It’s an exciting time and it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are 5 common mistakes that you should try to avoid! 1. Relying on advice from family and friends Family and friends are people […]

10 great ideas for your Easter celebrations

It’s hard to believe it’s already Easter, but by now you would have noticed all the chocolate eggs appearing around the supermarket. Easter is a special time for families, and in this article, we share some great ideas for your celebrations this year! Remember, if you have any plans to purchase a new property during […]

Royal Commission

You may have heard the Royal Commission into Misconduct in the Banking, Superannuation and Financial Services Industry has made some recommendations about changing how mortgage brokers get paid. There’s been a lot of noise in the media, so we thought it might be a good idea to update you about what’s going on and how […]

Why First Home buyers should start small!

When it comes to buying a home, bigger is better, right? Maybe not. All over the world, people are changing their attitude to the size of home they live in. This is particularly true amongst millennials, and if you’re looking to build your first home to take advantage of stamp duty concessions and first home […]

Can you exit an off-the-plan purchase?

Considering buying a property off the plan? It sounds good in theory, with the possibility of stamp duty concessions and other benefits for first home buyers. But in 2018 there were quite a few people who got caught out by the hidden risks. Read on to find out what you need to know if you’re […]

Do you need to Refinance your interest-only home loan?

According to a recent news report, more than 900,000 interest only (IO) home loans will come up for refinance during the first quarter of 2019. This kind of loan is very popular with property investors, however, the recent tightening of lending conditions in this area of the market may make it difficult for some people to […]

How would an RBA rate rise affect you?

It’s been nearly eight years since the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) last raised the country’s official cash rate. Interest rates have been at historical lows for quite some time and as a homeowner, you may never have experienced an “official” rise in interest rates. At present, interest rates remain low and we expect them […]

How to achieve your property goals in 2019!

Achieving Your New Year Property Goals with Help from Your Mortgage Broker How are your New Year Resolutions coming along? If you’re serious about achieving the goals you’ve set for yourself, creating a plan is the way to go. Of course, making a plan is easy when you’re talking about losing weight or exercising more […]

4 ways to avoid Christmas overspending!

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, Australians splurged a whopping $47.5 billion during last year’s Christmas shopping period. That probably made for a lot of blistered credit cards and debt hangovers come February! As your credit advisor, we would like to recommend a more sensible approach to spending this silly season. Here’s a few […]

Pre-Auction offers – how to

With auction clearance rates slipping below 50% in some markets right now, vendors are much more open to a pre-auction offer. You’ll also find more vendors choosing a private sale over an auction because it allows them to hold out for their price and save on auction costs. That means, if you’re ready to buy […]

Estimating the rental return on an Investment property

No matter what investment strategy you use, calculating the potential rental return on an investment property is a key step in the purchasing decision process. The rental yield is an important indicator of how a property is likely to perform and the cash flow it will generate. So, whether you’re using a positive or negative […]

Renovations to future-proof your home

There are many benefits to renovating your home. Renovations add value to your property, whilst also giving you the opportunity to improve your lifestyle. For those looking for more space, it may also be a more cost-effective option than buying a new place, considering the cost of agent’s fees and stamp duty. If your current […]

5 Reasons why first-home buyers are back in the game

Remember all the ‘smashed avocado’ media reports about how difficult it is for first home buyers to get into the market? Well, now there’s good news! In recent months, we’ve seen a surge in first-home buyer activity in the property market. According to data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics, the share of new loans […]

Beat the urge to splurge

Christmas is just over the horizon and decorations are already starting to appear at the local shops. It’s a time of year where it’s almost common practice to splurge! Marketers are all working hard to encourage you to buy, buy, buy and you may have already picked up a few things for yourself and to […]

10 Open inspection tips for home buyers

Spring is here and if you’re in the market to buy a property during the busiest time of year, you’ll be hitting the open inspection circuit in a big way! Vendors and real estate agents will be using their best tactics to make you fall in love with their properties and entice you to pay […]

4 Important property investment finance tips

Since the lenders cracked down on popular options like interest-only loans, finding creative finance strategies for growing your property investment portfolio has become more important than ever. As an investor, how you set up your finances can have a huge impact on the success of your property portfolio. In this article, we share a few […]

Choosing a contractor to build your home

Building your own home gives you the freedom to design it exactly to your taste, from the ground up. And if you’re a first-home owner, there may be some useful government incentives available to help get your project off the ground. Here’s what you need to know about building your own home and choosing a […]

6 negotiation tactics for Spring property buyers

With home values and auction clearance rates softening in our Spring property markets, buyers will have the upper hand when it comes to negotiating on price. So, it’s a good idea to arm yourself with some sharp bargaining tactics before diving in. Nobody wants to pay more than the current market value for a home. Here […]

Why loan pre-approval are important!

Pre-approval is a green light from a lender. Put simply, it confirms you’re eligible to apply for a home loan up to a certain amount. Essentially, the lender checks your financial circumstances, to decide if you’ll meet their criteria and can afford to repay a mortgage. A home loan pre-approval usually lasts for three to […]

Unusual property investment opportunities

Mention property investment and most people think of a conventional house or apartment. However, there are other types of property investment opportunities which may appeal to those with a little more imagination! In this article, we share some out-of-the-box ideas you may not have considered. Remember, your mortgage broker can assist with finance for all […]

Keeping your credit report clean

Your credit report paints a picture of your life as a responsible bill payer and borrower. Under the new Comprehensive Credit Reporting (CCR) regime introduced this year, it has increased in importance because lenders will be required to take it into consideration when approving your home loan. That’s why it’s a good idea to keep […]

3 ways your broker can consolidate your debts

Juggling several debts can be stressful. If you’re struggling to keep on top of your debts or you simply want to save money on interest, we can help you solve the problem and get some peace of mind. Here are 3 ways your mortgage and finance broker can help you deal with your debts so […]

Changes to credit reporting and how they affect you

This month, we saw important changes come into effect that could impact your ability to take out a home loan – or make it easier, depending on your credit history. In this article, we explain the new credit reporting changes and how they may affect you. But first, let’s start with the basics – what […]

Negative gearing tax deduction changes

Last year, important changes to tax deductions for property investors were announced. For some investors, the changes may have a significant impact on the annual deductions you can claim on your rental properties. As your mortgage broker, we like to keep you up to date. Here’s what you need to know about the changes when […]

Refinancing – when is a good time?

Loan refinancing is a strategy used by property investors to access funds – usually to grow or improve the value of their property portfolio. The right time to do it largely depends on your strategy, plans and equity. In this article, we highlight some of the key considerations for this strategy and how savvy investors […]

Renting or Buying – which is right for you?

To rent or buy? For some, renting makes good financial sense. For others, it’s just money down the drain. For you, it may be a question of short-term convenience versus long-term financial growth, which can make it a difficult decision to make. In this article, we break down the pros and cons of renting and […]

Co-housing – could it work for you?

Co-housing is a way of living that offers many benefits, especially for seniors. If the concept is unfamiliar, you may be conjuring up images of a 1970s hippy commune, but rest assured you won’t have to wear tie-dye t-shirts or become a vegan to be accepted! In this article, we explain what co-housing is, where […]

Great ideas for renovating a small home

Last year, the Federal Government introduced down-sizing incentives aimed at the baby-boomer set. Add this to rising capital city property prices that give just about everyone an incentive to cash-in on their big home, and it’s not surprising that more and more people are looking for smaller, less expensive places to live. However, when faced […]

Could a boarder help you pay your mortgage?

Are you thinking about buying a home and wondering how you’ll cover the mortgage repayments and still have a life? Remember Cousin Jimmy mentioning he was looking for a new pad? Sure, he’s a little ‘unusual’ with his back-scratcher collection and all, but if living with his bizarre hand gadgets means you’ll score some help […]

Guide to Investing in Property

When done right, investing in property can help you to build long-term wealth, and who doesn’t like the idea of an additional income stream? (Imagine what you could do with that!) The really great thing about property investing is that just about anyone can understand the principals. If you’re thinking about building wealth for your […]

Phone bidding at Auction

Bidding at an auction by phone is becoming more popular. You may have noticed these bidders – mysteriously whispering into their phones and then bellowing out bids with unwavering confidence. Whilst some of these people are buyer’s agents, others are just experienced property buyers bidding on behalf of friends or family. Why bid at an […]

Property Investment Jargon Explained

Are you new to the world of property investing? Does the jargon leave you feeling confused? Well, fear not, investor-to-be! We’ve put together a comprehensive list explaining the most difficult terminology. By the end of this article, you’ll sound just like a seasoned property investor when conversing with your friends at the dinner table, and […]

Renovate to increase selling price

When renovating for profit, the golden rule is minimal expenditure, maximum return. The key is to focus on renovations that will maximise your property’s value, whilst not costing you the earth. Here are 6 smart renovation ideas that will resonate with prospective buyers and help you get great returns when you sell. Remember, if you […]

Office Buildings – Are they a good investment?

Why You Should Consider Commercial Property Investment in Australia Residential property investment has long been popular among Australians, but far fewer venture into commercial property – like office buildings. While residential real estate may be more familiar, there are many benefits of commercial property investment, which is why it’s worth considering as a viable investment […]

Consumers are choosing Brokers more and more

Consumers continue to select brokers as the preferred channel for a home loan – latest market share data The latest market share data sourced by the Mortgage & Finance Association of Australia (MFAA) reveals continued – and growing – consumer confidence in mortgage brokers. Australian brokers settled $46.1 billion in residential home loans in the […]

Fixed Interest vs Variable Home Loans in 2018

Should You Fix Your Interest Rate When Buying or Refinancing Your Home in 2018? If you’re buying a property or considering refinancing your home loan in 2018, you may be asking yourself whether to fix your interest rate or not. Many people think about switching to a fixed interest rate mortgage when interest rates are […]

Could a smaller property provide a better ROI?

A small property could potentially make a great investment, provided you choose the right one. The key to success with any investment property is thorough research. In this article, we take a look at how to research and choose the right small space property to give you the investment returns you’re looking for. Pros – […]

10 Top Caravan Holiday Tips

Wish you could take longer holidays and spend more of the summer in the great outdoors? Caravanning is a great way to make the most of your holiday budget and is increasing in popularity. Last year, we Australians made more than 11 million trips and spent more than 51 million nights in our caravans and […]

6 questions to ask your Mortgage Broker

Did you know that your mortgage broker can help you with a lot more than a home loan? Mortgage brokers are qualified as ‘credit advisors’, so we can be of great benefit to you in a variety of different ways when it comes to your finances. To start you thinking about maximising your financial goals […]

5 Tips to take the stress out of Settlement day

You’ve found your dream property, had your offer accepted and the all-important settlement day is the last hurdle to overcome. The anticipation has been building for weeks! Settlement day can be both exciting and stressful, as sometimes things can go wrong. In this article, we offer some tips about settlement day and explain how we, […]

When should I buy an investment property

To buy an investment property in 2018, or not to buy? With more than 15% of Australian taxpayers owning at least one investment property, it’s a big question on many people’s minds right now. So, what’s the answer? Last year saw some major curveballs thrown to property investors, which may have left you wondering whether […]

Home deposit or wedding? What comes first?

2018 is going to be a big year for love and marriage in Australia – if you’ve found the one, congratulations! But what’s next – a home or a wedding? It’s a common scenario facing many couples – do you prioritise the wedding over the home, buy the home first and get married later, or […]

3 things new landlords need to know

Buying your first investment property is exciting, but it also comes with new responsibilities. When you’re on your L-plates as a new landlord, it’s important to be aware of your rights and obligations and those of your tenants. Here are some of the essential things that you should know. 1) Go it alone, or use […]

How refinancing every 3 years could help your mortgage

When it comes to smart money management, the key to success is to regularly assess your financial position – and that includes taking a good hard look at your mortgage. Here’s why refinancing every three years may help you save, and why you should check in with us today to ensure your home loan is […]

What is the best season to sell your home?

When selling your home, your main objective is to get the best possible price. So when should you put it on the market? Does the time of year make a difference? The answer is that it depends on the property itself. The time of year can make a difference in some cases, however, the location […]

6 strategies for first home buyers

Strategies for Saving Deposit on Your First Home Saving a 20% deposit for your first home is no easy task – particularly if you want to buy your home in Melbourne or Sydney where home values seem to be rising faster than most people can save. But the good news is that there could be […]

Investment property refinancing made easy!

The clever investor knows that assessing your investments regularly is key to identifying opportunities to build wealth. Knowing when to refinance an investment property could be vital to a successful strategy. So is now the time for you to refinance? Talk to us and we’ll help you to decide! Despite recent tightening around investor lending, […]

Start growing your portfolio using real estate

In Australia, the national past-time seems to be to save, save, save for a house deposit! People are making all sorts of sacrifices to get that all-important deposit together – from living with mum and dad into their thirties to sacrificing life’s little luxuries. But why are so many Australians so very focused on owning […]

Use your house equity to buy a new car?

How to Afford a New Car While Prioritising Your Home Loan If you’ve been putting all your extra cash into your home loan, well done. Paying your loan off sooner could potentially save you a lot of money on interest. However, owning a safe and reliable car is just as important, particularly if you have […]

First Home Buyers: What to look out for when inspecting properties

If you’re a first-time buyer and new to inspecting properties, it can be difficult to know what to look out for, especially when you’re excited about your first home purchase! Well, first-timers, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ve put together a 101 guide of things to be mindful of during your home inspections […]

4 Benefits of Downsizing

If you’re looking to buy your next home, downsizing might be the way to go. After all, sometimes less is more and it could work wonders for your finances! In this article, we explore some of the benefits of downsizing – from cutting back on maintenance and energy costs, to having more money in your […]

A Step-by-step guide to Refinancing your home

With a home loan, it’s easy to just ‘set and forget’. But it’s sensible to review your home loan every three years or so. We’re living in a world of rapid change, where interest rates go up and down fast, new lenders emerge and more competitive lending products become available on a regular basis. Under […]

6 reasons why property investment is more popular than ever.

Australians are a nation of investors. Over 60% of us hold additional investments outside of compulsory superannuation and increasingly, property is one of our most popular investment choices. But why? And is it the right form of investment for you? If you’re not sure, the sooner you talk to a qualified Financial Planner the better! […]

Mistakes to avoid when buying your Family home

Making a fresh start in a new family home is an exhilarating experience. Maybe you’ve just welcomed a new addition to the family (congratulations!)? Perhaps your kids have moved out, so it’s time to downsize? Maybe you’re craving a change of scenery, or you’ve scored a fantastic new job and now’s the time to upgrade […]

5 Tips for Saving for your First Home.

The comments in the news are enough to make you think saving a deposit for your first home is mission impossible. Not true! So, rather than just encouraging you to stop buying #SmashedAvo breakfasts to save your deposit, we’ve put together some practical tips to get your savings account over the finish line. We may […]

Should You Consolidate Your Debts By Refinancing?

If you’re struggling to manage your debts, or just want to save money on interest on your debts, we can help! There is a range of solutions available to you that are worth exploring. In this article, we explain why consolidating your debts by refinancing your home may or may not be a good option […]

Bridging vs sell-rent-buy

Great Article from Adelaide Bank! Some homeowners buy before they sell. Others sell then rent until the right home comes up. Ever wondered what the best option would be cost-wise? We’ve put together an example to compare the expenses involved. The Carters are a family of 4 living in Thomastown, Victoria. They want to upgrade […]

Construction Loans

There’s something thrilling about building your very own, brand spanking new home! Perhaps it’s the knowledge that everything will be fresh and new, or the freedom that comes with being able to design the property to suit your own tastes and lifestyle needs. Always dreamed of having a lap pool? Why not! Like the idea […]

Property Research Checklist!

You know when you decide to go on holidays and you start researching all of the fun things you’re in store for? The excitement begins to consume you. You may find yourself sneakily looking up extreme adventure activities when you’re meant to be working, Googling accommodation options on your commute home or browsing Instagram travel […]

Preparing for Tax Time

Just a friendly reminder that the end of financial year (EOFY) is fast approaching! It will soon be tax-time again for property investors and in order to maximise your return, it could be a good idea to start getting ready now. What can you do to prepare for tax time? We encourage you to consult […]

3 Tips for Buying Your First Home

You’ve budgeted hard, given up loads of smashed avocado brekkies, saved your deposit and are ready to buy your first home. High five! There’s nothing quite like finally getting a foothold on the property ladder and moving into your very own pad, but it does require planning and research. With our help, you’ll soon be […]

6 steps for Saving on EFOY Car Finance

Have you been driving the same old bomb for donkey’s years? Then perhaps it’s time to improve your image with a new set of wheels! If you’re worried about the cost of a new car, fear not! With the right kind of finance through mortgage brokers like us and the right kind of knowledge about […]

Investing in Commercial Property?

Whether you’re a seasoned investor looking for a new opportunity, or you’re after other ways to get your foot on the property ladder, a commercial property investment may be worth considering. In this article, we explore the reasons why people venture into commercial property investing, and some of the areas to be aware of. And […]

First Home Owner’s Grant Explained

You’re almost there! You’ve spent years budgeting to buy your own home and now you just need that final cash injection to break into the property market. Pop quiz time, hands on your buzzers, first-timers. Do you: 1) Continue living off two-minute noodles for another five years and hoard your pennies? 2) Cash-in your grandpa’s […]

ANZAC Day 2017

Today we give thanks for the peace and security we enjoy, which was won for us through the courage and devotion of those who gave their lives in times of war. To all the brave soldiers past and present. We will remember them. #LestWeForget

Choosing the right Investment Apartment

As Sex and the City’s Carrie Bradshaw could tell you, there are many perks to apartment living, which makes them a fantastic investment option. They offer people the ability to live close to work and exciting entertainment hubs, where many a social drink can be had within walking distance of home. After all, who wants […]

Refinance your unhealthy home loan

Today’s mortgage market is extremely competitive. With so many new deals and loan features constantly becoming available, it makes sense financially to regularly give your home loan a health check. That way, you’ll be confident your mortgage is satisfying your needs and living up to expectations. If you do suspect your home loan is in […]

Happy Easter

Easter is here and it’s a wonderful time of year. The autumn property markets are looking good in most parts of the country, so if you are in the market for a new home or investment property, chat to us now. We hope you and your family have a wonderful Easter break. Please be safe […]

Investment Jargon Explained

If you’re new to property investment, understanding all of the jargon involved can be tricky. As your mortgage broker, our mission is to help simplify and support you through the process of investing in property, which is why we’ve put together this handy list explaining the key lingo you’re likely to encounter. Right, students, pens […]

Buying a home when self-employed

There’s nothing quite like the sweet satisfaction that comes from holding a shiny new set of keys to your very own home. If you’re a self-employed borrower, you’ve no doubt worked hard to get where you are and you deserve to enjoy the fruits of your labour. Here are our best tips for buying a […]

Selling above Market Value

When you decide to sell your home or investment property, it’s natural to want it to fetch the highest sale price possible, but it’s also important to be realistic when setting your price or you risk scaring the buyers away. Here are some pointers to help improve your chances of selling above market value, whilst […]

Tips to Consider when Purchasing a Second property

Tips to Consider when Purchasing a Second property If you have already purchased your first home, congratulations! The next step in building wealth for your future could be to plan for the purchase of a second property as an investment. Owning two properties is a great financial ambition and with Australian house prices on the […]

Home Renovation and Décor Ideas

Home Renovation and Décor Ideas for 2017 Out with the old and in with the new! What better way to start 2017 than with a make-over for your most valuable asset? Whether you’re ready for a complete home renovation or simply want to bring your house up-to-date with a few cosmetic changes, you’ll want to […]

New Year Resolutions for Your Finances

New Year Resolutions for Your Finances With another Christmas celebrated and already showing up on our waistlines, a common topic of conversation for many of us in January is our New Year resolutions. Whether it’s a pledge to give up smoking, get to the gym more often, or start (yet another) healthy eating regime, New […]

Choosing the right Finance Structure

Choosing the right Finance structure for your property investment People invest in property to achieve various financial goals, including supplementing retirement funds or covering the costs of children’s education. One thing all investors should have in common is a strategic financial plan to ensure their assets are working to the best of their ability. Good […]

Wealth through Property Investment

How to create wealth through property investment. Property investment is a common strategy for building wealth for three reasons; it’s less risky than other investing mediums, it can provide good cash flow, and the return on investment is strong. Furthermore, it’s a tactile asset and can provide significant tax breaks for smart investors.   Source: […]

Capital Growth on a Property Investment

How much capital growth can you expect on a property investment? Investment properties are a long-term financial solution to building wealth. There are several strategies which can be implemented when building a property portfolio, but there is no denying that focusing on capital growth is paramount to ensure long-term success. Capital growth refers to the […]

New Year Car Sales

It’s nearly clearance sale time at car yards across Australia, as car dealerships try to clear last year’s stock. A vehicle may have only been built a few months ago, but as far as the dealer is concerned it’s now a year old. The good news is you can capitalise on their eagerness to sell, […]

How to be a good landlord!

Your loan has settled and you are officially the proud owner of an investment property. Well done! No doubt you want the rent to start flowing in so you can pay off your mortgage, and to have a smooth and stress free time as ‘landlord’. If that’s the case, it’s time to start looking for […]

Property Investment

Property investment No doubt you’ve been exposed to the ongoing buzz around investing in property in Australia. Commentary on the subject constantly fills our newspapers and newsfeeds, making it difficult to miss. However, this is all with good reason. The Australian property market is strong, resilient and often pays dividends. It’s easy to understand why local and international […]

5 damage control tips for Christmas spending

Christmas is just a matter of days away and for many Australians, they’re likely to be the most expensive days of the year. According to the Australian Retailers Association and Roy Morgan Research, we’re expected to spend over $48 billion in the lead up to Christmas 2016, so the Christmas shopping frenzy is bound to […]

Interest Only Loans

Interest Only Loans How to improve cash flow as a property investor through interest only loans When an investor determines their long-term investment strategy and objectives, the loan structure is an important factor to consider as it can significantly impact the overall success of the investor’s portfolio. Seeking the advice of a financial professional will […]

Tips for buying off the plan

 Tips for Buying off the Plan! When you’re looking to buy a property, a genuine bargain is the ultimate Holy Grail. We all want to buy at less than market value – and this is exactly the reason why it hardly ever happens. Buying off the plan has the possibility of being the one exception, […]

Rentvesting

Understanding ‘Rentvesting’ It’s a whole new word in today’s popular culture, but it also represents a revolution in home buying strategy, particularly for first home buyers and those struggling to move up the property ladder. But what is it? And what are the benefits? What is Rentvesting? Everyone agrees that buying your first home is […]

Strata title property

What is a “Strata Title” property. Strata title is a method of facilitating individual ownership of part of a property – generally an apartment, unit or townhouse. Uniquely, strata title allows for individual ownership of an actual lot or unit whilst sharing ownership of the common grounds on which it is built. The concept only […]

Stamp duty

Understanding Stamp duty  Stamp duty is a charge which is applied by state governments in Australia on transactions relating to the transfer of land or property. It is paid upfront and needs to be budgeted for in addition to your loan deposit. The amount of stamp duty you are required to pay differs in each state, however there […]

Investing in Property

Investing in Property – 8 Things to consider When it’s done right, investing in property can help you to build wealth for your future. In Australia, property is currently a very popular investment and many people are enthusiastically jumping into the market to make the most of the low interest rates currently available. But it […]

Choosing the right loan type for your investment?

Choosing the right loan type for your investment? When it comes to financing your investment property, there are several different options that you can use. Choosing the right one will depend on your investment structure and strategy, but there’s no need to spend days or even weeks researching the options. Here are the most popular […]

Financing for Business Growth

How can you finance your business growth? If you’re self-employed or a small business owner, growing your business can be a challenge. You may find your expansion plans are frustrated by irregular cash-flow, insufficient or out-dated equipment, or business premises that are just too small. Sometimes you may even find yourself missing out on opportunities […]