Entries by Tracie

How to speed up your home loan approval

Asking how long it takes to get a loan approved is like asking how long a piece of string is. Every application is unique, so the time between your first contact with your bank or broker and approval can never be predetermined. There are, however, some things you can do to help hurry your application […]

Too loyal or time-poor for a better rate? Problem solved

Interest rates have never been lower.  However, finance can be so tedious. That is until you realise it could mean more money in your pocket. But how? For many, matters of personal finance are so dull and/or difficult, they are immediately filed in the too-hard basket. And for their trouble, or lack thereof, these people […]

Explainer: Fixed Rate Home Loans

With interest rates at an all-time low, and many lender’s fixed rates lower than their variable options, locking in an interest rate on your home loan to guard against possible future fluctuation may be attractive. However, it pays to know the ins and outs of fixed-rate loans before committing to one. When purchasing a property, […]

Delivering the Goods: Are our buying habits driving industrial property demand?

In 2020, many retail businesses have pivoted their models to incorporate delivery – as opposed to traditional ‘bricks and mortar’. Some businesses are switching back now that restrictions are easing, but not all. So how is this changing the commercial property landscape? The new, newer normal In a year full of uncertainties, there’s no doubt […]

Get Out Of Town: Are rural areas the new Australian property hotspots?

2020 has seen a serious slowdown in city property markets, but some rural real estate agents say they’re busier than ever. So, is this simply a result of the pandemic? Or a trend that’s set to keep growing after COVID-19 is gone? The fact is, most of us have spent a lot more time indoors […]

Around the Grounds: How COVID-19 has impacted on Australia’s property market

The RBA’s September announcement that the interest rate remains unchanged comes as no surprise. After all, RBA Governor Philip Lowe told parliament last month that he expects the current record low 0.25% interest rate to stay in place for three years.  Low rates have long-term implications, but in the meantime, let’s go ‘around the grounds’ […]

5 ways to fund a renovation

Considering transforming your home from ‘banal’ to ‘brilliant’, but lack the funds to support your makeover? Never fear, we’ve put together five home renovation finance options that could help turn your dream into reality. 1 Equity Release / Top Up Home Loan This is probably the most common way people borrow money when they want […]

Property investing checklist

Investment in real property, such as residential real estate, is likely to be a lengthy process and one that usually involves a plan for the long term. To ensure you have considered what is required before making the big purchase, we’ve outlined steps you need to take in that process. Make the commitment A property […]

Now you own your data: the new world of ‘open banking’ explained

The promise of open banking is big; a new, simpler way to share your personal financial data between banks, lenders and financial companies. It started on July 1. Here’s how it works and what it means to take back control of your data to get the best rates and offers. Switching banks has long been […]

Low rates, high risk? Is it time for first home buyers to enter the market?

With record low interest rates, a flattening housing market and repeated assertions from RBA governor Philip Lowe that a rates rise is not on the horizon, this may be the right time for first home buyers to strike.  Following the August Reserve Bank (RBA) meeting, interest rates remain at 0.25% for August. As recently as July, […]