
Articles, Stories, Tips & Resources
Sounds of silence: how traffic noise can impact property values
‘Close to public transport’ is often touted as a plus for home buyers. But new research shows just how much close proximity to a busy road, railway or flight path can impact property values.
5 fun (and budget-friendly) ideas for an Easter staycation
This Easter offers more than chocolate eggs and hot cross buns. It brings a rare mega-holiday, and if your budget doesn’t stretch to a trip away, check out our tips to enjoy a memorable getaway – at home.
Low cost renos to help keep your home cosy this autumn
It’s been a long, hot summer, but the seasons are shifting and it’s time to prepare for the cooler months ahead. A few simple improvements could help keep your home snug without overheating your power bills.
Was that the shortest property downturn ever?
The so-called market ‘downturn’ we saw over the last few months was a blink-and-you-miss-it affair. Home prices are once again on the up. We unpack what’s happening – and why now could be a good time to buy.
Major change coming to mortgage rules for university grads
Good news for the three million Australians who have a student debt. New rules are on the cards that could soon increase their borrowing power when applying for a home loan.
RBA cuts the cash rate for the first time since 2020
Finally, a long-awaited reprieve for borrowers. The Reserve Bank of Australia has today cut the cash rate by 25 basis points to 4.10%. How much could this rate cut decrease your monthly mortgage repayments? And can we expect more cuts this year?
The scheme that’s helped 193,000 Aussies buy a first home
If you’re in the market for a first home, there’s one scheme you should know about. It’s called the Home Guarantee Scheme, and it could slash the time it takes to buy a place of your own by several years. Here’s how it works.
What happens to my home loan if interest rates fall?
Great news for home owners – plenty of economists are tipping an RBA rate cut for February. Assuming it happens, once the celebrations have died down, what next? We explain what to expect when rates head south.
The top 5 location turn-offs for Aussie home buyers
Ever spotted a bargain property and then thought to yourself: ‘What’s the catch?’ Well, more often than not there’s a good reason behind a lower-than-expected price tag. And while an undesirable location might not be a deal breaker for you, it could make it harder to sell later.
How to finance your 2025 home renovation
Bathroom blitz? Kitchen kit out? Or perhaps some landscaping love might be on your house upgrade wishlist for 2025? If so, it’s worth knowing what reno finance options are available. Today we’ll explain some ways to fund your home improvement project.
Decisions decisions… Fixed-rate vs variable home loan rate
Amid growing expectations of rate cuts in 2025, sticking with a variable home loan rate can seem like a no-brainer. But not so fast. Locking in your home loan rate can also have upsides, including the potential for a lower rate right now.
House, apartment or townhouse? The pros and cons of each
There’s much more to property in Australia than just houses or units. And if you’re in the market for a home or investment property, it helps to know your townhouses from terrace homes so that you can choose a place that’s suited to your goals and needs.
Three financial New Year’s resolutions to tackle 2025 head-on
How are your New Year’s resolutions coming along? If you’re like most people, they’re likely related to health, fitness or abstinence. But why not consider a financial one too? Here are three resolutions worth considering for 2025.
Merry Christmas! And thanks for your support in 2024!
With the holiday season upon us, we’d like to express our heartfelt thanks to all our amazing clients for your trust and support throughout 2024.
Have you refinanced recently? It could be time this summer break
If you haven’t looked into refinancing since the start of higher interest rates, it might be time to ask yourself ‘why not?’ New research shows it could be time to try again – especially if you want to start 2025 off on the right foot.
How did property prices go in 2024? And what’s tipped for 2025?
As we head towards the end of 2024, let’s take a look at how property markets performed over the last year – and discover what the experts say may lie in store for home prices in 2025.
Thinking of buying a holiday home? Here’s what to weigh up
The coming weeks will see millions of Aussies enjoy a well-earned getaway, and for some, a memorable holiday will inspire plans to buy a holiday home. But is it a good idea? And can a weekender still stack up financially? We explain what to consider plus tips to fund a vacation property.
Thinking of installing a swimming pool for summer?
There are few better ways to beat the summer heat than floating in your very own pool. With a range of price points to choose from, a pool can be affordable, but will it add value to your property? And how will you pay for your backyard oasis?
Buying land to build on later: what you need to know
You’ve seen the perfect piece of land but you’re not quite ready to build. No problem – a land loan can be a handy finance solution. However, it can work a bit differently from a regular home loan. Here’s what you need to know.
Do you really need a building inspection?
Your home is possibly the most valuable asset you will ever own. So it’s worth taking precautions to help ensure you buy a place that has a clean bill of health, free from budget-busting hidden nasties.