What does it cost to build a deck?

Adding a deck to your home can be a relatively simple way to enhance your property, giving you an outdoor space for entertaining or just for relaxation. But like any other renovation project, it’s important to consider your budget when building a deck, to help ensure you enjoy the best value.

Do the big four banks control the Australian mortgage lending market?

Australia’s four biggest banks – ANZ, Commonwealth Bank, NAB and Westpac – hold more than 90 per cent of Australia’s mortgage market… but they aren’t the only game in town. Before choosing a home loan, it’s important to compare a variety of options and consider which mortgage deals may best suit your financial situation.

RBA says inflation is due to supply issues: so why are rates still going up?

With the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) having hiked the national cash rate by 50 basis points in back to back months, and with more hikes likely to come in the future, Australian mortgage holders are under increasing financial pressure. But what effect are these rate rises expected to have on high inflation, especially when several of the factors driving it upwards are coming from overseas?

Some of the best home loans in July 2022

Following back-to-back 50-point hikes to the national cash rate from the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA), first home buyers and other owner occupiers could be facing a delicate balancing act. While higher rates could make securing finance for your property purchase more challenging, they could also lead to property prices falling in some areas.

What is a digital home loan?

With interest rates on the rise as the RBA looks at further raising the cash rate to tackle inflation, many Australian mortgage holders may be looking at their refinancing options. If the home loans offered by the big banks aren’t as competitive as you’d like, a digital home loan may be an alternative to consider. 

What to expect from the RBA meeting in July 2022

When it comes to hiking the national cash rate, will three times prove a charm for the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA)? Here’s what some of the nation’s big banks are forecasting for the July 2022 meeting.

Fixed vs variable interest rates: how to choose in 2022

Interest rates have been on the rise, with more increases predicted to come. Many borrowers may be eager to lock in a fixed interest rate to avoid being slammed with multiple rate rises, but will this really leave them better off?

2.5 million live in apartments: what the Census reveals about housing in Australia

While the classic image of the Australian Dream is a freestanding house in the suburbs, recently released figures from the 2021 Census show that around 10 per cent of Australians now live in apartments. 

Why are used cars so expensive right now?

If you’ve been looking for a used car and have been shocked by how high prices have risen, you’re not alone. While there are several factors that may have pushed used car prices upward, there are also several car financing options available for Australians in the market for a used car.

Young Australians relocate to the regions: what support is available?

New data has found that more young people are moving from Australia’s cities to its regions, almost literally in search of greener pastures. So what support is available for Australians looking for a tree change?