Do I need a house valuation for probate? What you to know about deceased estates

Becoming the executor for a deceased estate can be daunting. While you’re dealing with your grief for the departed, you’re also taking responsibility for the will they left behind. Understanding some of the requirements and responsibilities involved when dealing with a deceased estate can help to ensure that everybody is well looked after, financially and emotionally.

Home renovations that may give you the best return on investment

If you can’t afford to renovate your entire home, you may want to think carefully about where you want to commit your time and money. Whether you’re renovating to sell, or looking to grow your home’s long-term value, renovating certain areas of the home could provide a much bigger return on investment.

Most common renovation mistakes and how to avoid them

Renovating a property can give you or your tenants a more comfortable place to live, and potentially help to improve its value for easier refinancing or selling in the future. But there are also some easy mistakes to make that could affect both the results of your renovation project and your financial future.

Selling a home with a mortgage: your guide

Ready to sell your property, but still owe money on the home loan? In many cases, having an outstanding mortgage shouldn’t be too large an obstacle between you and a hassle-free home sale, though you may want help from a legal professional to walk you through the process.

What is a revolving credit mortgage?

A revolving credit mortgage is another name for a home equity line of credit, often used in countries such as New Zealand. A revolving line of credit lets you borrow up to a maximum limit based on your equity in property, and enjoy the flexibility to make repayments when you choose.

Does working from home void your home insurance?

Home and contents insurance covers your home and possessions if they are damaged or destroyed, providing homeowners with valuable peace of mind. But there’s also a risk that these homeowners could miss out if they also run a business from their insured home.

Principal and interest: how to pay off your mortgage faster

Your mortgage’s “principal” refers to the amount you’ve borrowed and will need to repay to the lender in time. Paying off your mortgage principal can not only bring you closer to owning your property outright and getting out of debt, but potentially help you pay less in interest charges over time. There are a few home loan features and options that may be able to help you pay off your home loan faster.

Who is still offering low-rate home loans after the August 2022 rate hike?

For the fourth month in a row, the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) raised the national cash rate at its August meeting. Many mortgage lenders have already passed this rate hike on to their customers, so where can you still find a low home loan interest rate?

Most Australians worried about cost of living: where can you cut costs and save?

With both inflation and rising interest rates pushing up the cost of living around Australia, many of us are considering different ways to cut expenses and save a dollar or two. But where can Australians make the most effective cuts to their household budgets, and how can they maximise their savings?

How long does it take to get a home loan approved?

Getting a home loan approved could be a short and simple or lengthy and complex process, depending on your application and your financial situation. While the average time from home loan application to formal approval and settlement can take between four and six weeks, some mortgage lenders advertise that they can approve a home loan in as little as 10 minutes.