2009: A year in review for home loans

2009 was a big year for home loans, with hundreds of lessons to be learned for home buyers. Going into the New Year, home buyers will hate to repeat past mistakes. So what have we learned from 2009?

Freebies for the picking: Home loans with extras

In an environment of rising rates it makes sense to get every ounce of value from your mortgage lender, and there are plenty of freebies available if you know where to look. The idea of getting something for nothing holds universal appeal. However it’s essential to check that the freebies don’t come at the cost of a higher rate and fees.

Savings: What the advertisements won't tell you

The banks and non-banks who spend the most money advertising their savings accounts are not necessarily the ones that deserve your loyalty. Do your own research and comparison shopping to ensure you end up with the best available deal.

New homes become the first buys for 2010

Experts believe that this is the perfect time for keen home buyers to snap up bargains in the housing market, which puts home loans at the top of many shopping lists. Is it a good time to buy a home with interest rates on the rise?

Online or old-fashioned savings accounts: What's best for you?

Since the introduction of the first online savings account by ING Direct in 1990, Australians have taken to online accounts like ducks to water. And there is no doubt online accounts can help you save faster as they offer the highest interest rates on the market.

Read the fine print on high interest savings account

There are plenty of good deals on savings at present but getting the best return means reading the fine print. One of the key aspects to look out for when comparing savings accounts is whether an advertised rate is the ongoing rate your money will earn or if it's a ’bonus’ rate.

Saving for the Jones's: Aussies showing off their savings success

Australians are more worried about their neighbours finding out their financial hardships, than actually going through the hardship itself, according to a new international survey.

New Year's Resolution: More money from your savings

2010 will be the year for better interest rates on savings accounts so why not take advantage by starting up a savings plan for your New Year’s Resolution?

2010 Hotspots: Biggest property bargains revealed

A report of Australia’s cheapest property areas reveal ’hotspots’ for price growth that are almost $400,000 less than median house prices across the country. These bargain properties are fodder for investors, and home buyers wishing to own a property outright as soon as possible.

Rudd tells home buyers to stand on their own feet

When it comes to home loans, the Australian government isn’t prepared to hold consumers’ hands anymore, and home buyers are expected to rely on their own decisions, according to Prime Minister Kevin Rudd.