Stats show slowdown in new dwelling approvals

Figures recently released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) indicate that Australia’s total number of new dwelling approvals shrank significantly in March 2017, after having risen over the previous two months.

What the new bank levy could cost you

One surprise to come out of Australia’s 2017 Federal Budget was the introduction of a new 'budget repair' levy on Australia’s big banks.

Good debt and bad debt, how to consolidate and save

Even if you didn’t pay much attention to the 2017 federal budget, you may remember how it was presented a little differently. Rather than focusing solely on surpluses versus deficits, the federal government sorted its borrowing into "good debt" and "bad debt".

What is a Mortgage Discharge Fee?

Also known as a termination or settlement fee, a discharge fee is paid when you finish paying off the balance on a loan, or refinance with another lender.

The Trump Factor, Will fixed rates protect you from volatility?

When US President Trump was first elected, a wave of uncertainty washed over the world of finance, causing investors to seek safe havens for their wealth. The 45th president’s election victory led to the price of gold breaking through the US$1300 an ounce mark, while US treasuries rose 10 points. There was also speculation that investors could start moving their money from shares to property – specifically Australian property, generally considered to be one of the safest markets in the world – as they wait to see the fallout.

Will US rate rises affect Australia?

Last night’s meeting of the US Federal Reserve increased America’s benchmark interest rate from 0.75% to 1%. Leading up to this widely-forecast increase, finance industry experts predicted that rising US interest rates may influence Australia and other countries where lenders could struggle with increased overseas funding costs, and raise their own interest rates to compensate.

Credit Cards vs Personal Loans vs Payday Loans

Three of the most popular methods for borrowing a bit of extra cash are credit cards, personal loans and payday loans. Each of these loan types have their share of benefits and drawbacks, making them better suited to different financial circumstances.

How to find your interest rate

Pop quiz, hotshot – what interest rate are you currently paying on your home loan? Could you name it off the top of your head?

How to find the value of your property

It’s romantic to measure what a home is worth in terms of love, memories, or similarly sentimental metrics. Unfortunately, banks and other mortgage lenders aren’t renowned for their sense of whimsy, and prefer to measure the worth of properties in dollar values.

What are home loan break costs?

If you have a fixed rate home loan and you are still in the fixed period, you may incur additional charges if you refinance or sell your property and exit from your loan. These charges for breaking the fixed rate home loan contract are called break costs.