Entries by Tracie

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, […]

Helping your kids get into the property market

The real estate market can be tough for young adults, but as a parent you may be able to lend a helping hand. We tell you how. 1.Parent-to-child loan A parent-to-child loan is when a parent lends their child money. This is a formal, legally binding arrangement, administered by an independent third party. At the […]

Remember the banking royal commission? Changes are coming your way

Had it not been for COVID-19, a number of royal commission-led changes to the banking and finance industry would already have been in place – with more to come in December. Here’s what that means for brokers and for you. In May, Treasurer Josh Frydenberg made an important announcement to the country as we began […]

Back in Action: How long-term low interest rates could benefit your business

In late June, during an online panel discussion hosted by ANU’s Crawford School of Public Policy, RBA Governor Philip Lowe said what many had already assumed: “I think it’s likely we’re going to see interest rates at their current level for years”. So it was no surprise that rates have been held at 0.25% for […]

Getting a Foot in the Door: What you need to know about the new HomeBuilder grant

As part of the economic response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the federal government’s HomeBuilder program provides eligible owner-occupiers – including first home buyers – with a grant of $25,000 to build a new home or substantially renovate an existing home before the end of 2020. It can pay to check if you’re eligible and what […]

Getting what you need to get ahead: asset finance explained

In business, growth is often the goal. But for many businesses, expansion means needing new  equipment, vehicles, machinery or technology – and that all costs money. Asset finance can help reduce the initial outlay, while your business gets what it needs to scale. Here are some key things to consider before you apply and what […]

Inspiration or imitation? Home design in an online world

If you want to look inside perfectly-designed homes, there are more and more ways to than ever before, many delivered directly to your phone or social feed. But – from blogs and newsletters to Pinterest – when does inspiration become overload? While it used to be that the cutting edge of design was reserved for […]

When is the best time to refinance your home loan?

When is the best time to refinance your home loan? As a home owner with a mortgage, chances are you’ve heard of the term ‘refinancing’. Refinancing involves reviewing your current mortgage, and potentially swapping your loan to another lender who can better meet your current needs, wants and circumstances. Refinancing can also allow you to […]

Not so taxing: making the most of your investment property at tax time

Come July 1 the annual tax window opens again. Property investors may have access to a wide range of tax benefits, but tax is a complicated matter. It pays to be across the details. Here’s how you could maximise your return, and what to watch out for. Over two million Australians own at least one […]