Some of the top-rated home loans for investors and refinancers in August 2023

Despite the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) keeping the cash rate on hold in August 2023, home loan interest rates are still on the move. Australians looking for a better deal are still refinancing their mortgage, while investors are starting to return to the market.

Do EVs cost more to insure?

Electric Vehicles (EVs) generally cost more to purchase than their petrol-powered equivalents, and may also often cost more to insure. However, the fuel cost savings may be able to help offset some of these higher expenses.

What can you do about rising insurance premiums?

Insurance premiums have risen significantly over the past year, thanks to the combined effects of natural disasters and rising building costs. With pressure building on households already struggling with the cost of living, it’s becoming more and more important to compare the cost of home insurance policies.

New electric MG4 hatchback to make low-emissions motoring more affordable

If you’ve been on the fence about going electric due to the higher cost of many electric vehicles (EVs), MG has launched a new entry-level electric hatchback with the goal of putting electric motoring within reach of more everyday Australians.

What credit score do I need for a home loan in Australia?

Borrowers with fair or higher credit scores may have an easier time getting their mortgage applications approved. But even if you have a poor or below average credit score, if you can fulfil the lender’s other eligibility criteria, there may be steps you can take to confidently apply for a home loan in Australia.

Who is eligible for the Home Guarantee Scheme?

The Australian Federal Government’s Home Guarantee Scheme (HGS) can help Australians purchase their first property. First home buyers, regional home buyers, and single parents may all be eligible for the program, provided they also fulfil the other eligibility criteria.

ACCC halts ANZ and Suncorp merger – what this means for refinancing

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has halted a planned merger between ANZ and Suncorp Bank, citing concerns around competition in the home loan market, which is seeing near-record levels of refinancing.

Some of the top-rated home loans in August 2023

Many Australians may be hoping that the Reserve Bank of Australia’s (RBA’s) decision to keep the cash rate on hold in August 2023 signals the end of the recent hiking cycle. However, it’s still possible that the RBA could raise rates again in the future if inflation does not respond in a timely manner. And with some banks already hiking rates out of cycle from the RBA, it’s essential to look at more than just the interest rate before you apply for a home loan.

Three great reasons checking your credit score can help you

Your credit score is an assessment of your financial responsibility. If you have a good credit score, lenders may feel more confident about lending you more money at lower interest rates. But if you have a bad credit score, you may find it harder to successfully apply for credit.

Will paying off a personal loan increase my credit score?

Reaching the end of your loan term and making your final repayment can be a satisfying feat. But will paying off your personal loan give your credit score a boost, or could it have the opposite effect?