No move on Interest Rates again
The final meeting of the Reserve Bank for 2015 produced no surprises as the Board made the decision to keep interest rates on hold. The official cash rate continues to stand at an all time low of 2%. Looking back on the past year, it’s been nothing but good news for the Australian housing market.
How will the changes to investment loans affect you?
The importance of a knowledgeable mortgage broker has come sharply into focus following the recent banking system changes to investment loans. Many panicked borrowers have turned to mortgage brokers like us, for guidance in the months since the Australian Prudential Regulatory Authority (APRA) directed the major banks to place limits on investment lending and hold more funds in capital reserves. With each bank responding individually to the directive, the changes in policy and pricing have varied wildly from one lender to the next.
Housing Affordability, what’s our new PM’s stance?
On 15 September 2015 Malcolm Turnbull was sworn in as Prime Minister, signalling a new era for the Liberal leadership and this may lead to a different approach to the issue of housing affordability. There could also be a fundamental shift in the way the government addresses economic issues, with the Turnbull government set to be “a thoroughly Liberal government committed to freedom, the individual and the market.” At the heart of Turnbull’s economic ethos is the concept of a ‘free market’, encouraging competition wherever possible. Despite low interest rates, the rate of home ownership for those under 65 is declining, along with wages growth. With the median house price in Sydney now at $1 million, housing affordability is an issue felt by many Australians, particularly those in urban areas.
How to Choose a Home Loan Term
Some people pay off their home loan in record time, while others take 30 years. Which is better? Deciding on the length of your mortgage term is an important decision because it can significantly affect the amount of interest you pay, as well as have implications for equity and cash flow.
Buying together – 4 tips about property co-ownership
With the romance of Valentine’s Day still in the air, many may be feeling the romantic urge to take the plunge and shack up with a loved one, but property co-ownership is a serious business and getting it wrong can have long-lasting repercussions. Certainly, romantic reasons aside, co-purchasing a property can be a great way to improve your buying power and reduce the burden of debt repayments. It also enables you to split other costs such as rates, water and utilities. Whether it’s young love or simply your first transaction together, when it comes to purchasing with a partner, it pays to proceed with caution and avoid letting your heart play tricks with your head! With that in mind, we’ve compiled a range of tips for successful co-ownership, that won’t leave you heartbroken – or broke.
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The start of a new year is a great time to review your finances. Engaging a mortgage broker now will give you a window of time to figure out what processes and practices you can improve upon. Do you need advice on your home loan? Are you getting the best possible mortgage rates and terms?
Mortgage Brokers more popular than ever
Mortgage brokers are now responsible for writing over half of Australia’s home loans and are valued for their choice, expertise and convenience, according to a new survey commissioned by the Mortgage and Finance Association of Australia (MFAA). From a 49.9 per cent share of the market in the March 2014 quarter, total new home lending to mortgage brokers increased to 51.9 per cent in the March 2015 quarter. Over this time there was a $44.2 billion increase in mortgage lending across Australia and brokers were responsible for 71 per cent of this increase, Australian Bureau of Statistics data reveals.
Could you be tempted by the lenders latest home loan offers?
There’s a lot of competition for Australia’s $1.3 trillion home loan market and one could be easy to be dazzled or confused by the variety of offers available. Indeed, some of the deals might sound more like those on offer from car dealers than the banks, but that’s what happens interest rates are low and every lender is keen to grab a share of the market. Home loan cash back offers
What to Consider when Buying a Second Property
Buying your own home remains the great Australian dream – and purchasing a second property may help you take your wealth further. Whether you’re building your property investment portfolio, buying a holiday house, upgrading or supporting a family member, there are plenty of things to think about before you take that all important next step. Consider your cashflow Property tends to be a long-term investment, so do your sums to make sure you can afford the ongoing repayments on two mortgages. Also think about any major life changes on the horizon – for example, you may be planning to expand your family, or you might need to support a parent in the coming years. Get to know the market and location
3 Questions to Ask Before you Refinance your Home Loan
The home loan market is constantly changing, with new and attractive deals coming up all the time. Refinancing can help you secure a more competitive interest rate, access the equity in your home, add features (such as an offset account) or consolidate your debts, but there are some important questions to consider before you get the ball rolling. Has my financial situation changed? A refinance is effectively a brand new loan application.
Hassle free home loan applications - how to properly prepare
For the majority of people, a home loan is the biggest financial commitment they will make during their lifetime. Such an obligation requires painstaking and meticulous planning, but with the right resources and careful preparation, you shouldn’t need to stress. Here are a few tips to help you make the home loan application a breeze. Prepare your credit report Before anything, you will need to ensure that your finances are in order.
Are you looking for home renovation finance
Have the wave of home improvement shows on television inspired you to carry out a home renovation? Whether it’s big or small, an investment project or home extension you’ve been dreaming about for years, the big question is – how are you going to pay for it? Here are some options to consider:
What you Need to Know about Home Loan Refinancing
A home loan is generally a long-term proposition, but in some situations it can make sense to refinance your mortgage. Read this guide to the home loan refinancing process, and speak to your broker, before deciding whether it’s right for you. Refinancing involves taking out a new mortgage and using those funds to pay off your existing mortgage. Doing so can save money and result in significant financial gains over time, here are some of the reasons why you might refinance. You might want a lower interest rate.
