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Home Loans Articles

Learn more about how to manage your personal finances with RateCity's home loan articles, including how-to-guides on comparing home loan interest rates, fees, features and other benefits.

Peter Terlato

Personal Finance Editor

Why should I choose a joint mortgage?

A joint mortgage may enable you to borrow more and reduce your risk, but it's important to have a clear arrangement with the person/s taking on the loan with you.

Home Loans

28 Mar, 2023

6 min read

Why should I choose a joint mortgage?
Alex Ritchie

Personal Finance Editor

Which bank should you choose for a home loan

While this does mean there is no one best bank for all home loans, you can still research and compare your options carefully to find the best home loan for you.

Home Loans

27 Mar, 2023

5 min read

Which bank should you choose for a home loan
Peter Terlato

Personal Finance Editor

What is the mortgage loyalty tax?

The term “mortgage loyalty tax” refers to the difference in interest rate costs that existing borrowers pay as a result of lenders offering new customers lower rates on home loans. Here's how to avoid it.

Home Loans

27 Mar, 2023

5 min read

What is the mortgage loyalty tax?
Mark Bristow

Personal Finance Editor

How long does it take to refinance?

Refinancing your home loan can help you enjoy a range of benefits, from lower interest rates to flexible features and benefits. However, the process of refinancing will require some time and effort. Depending on the lender and your financial situation, the refinancing process could take anywhere from a few weeks to just three days.

Home Loans

27 Mar, 2023

7 min read

How long does it take to refinance?
Peter Terlato

Personal Finance Editor

How long can I lock in Australia's lowest rates for?

The ability to lock in low fixed interest rates may offer borrowers protection against rate rises and provide more time to compare the market and secure the most favourable home loan.

Home Loans

27 Mar, 2023

4 min read

How long can I lock in Australia's lowest rates for?
Alex Ritchie

Personal Finance Editor

Which banks are good for refinancing?

Whether you’re struggling to repay your mortgage and want a lower rate, or you’re hoping to ditch your basic mortgage for some competitive features, refinancing can be a competitive financial decision. So, which lender should you choose for your refinance?  

Home Loans

24 Mar, 2023

6 min read

Which banks are good for refinancing?
Peter Terlato

Personal Finance Editor

Home loan benefits for medical professionals

Medical professionals are often eligible for special benefits while applying for a home loan. If you’re a doctor or another type of medical professional, your hard work and dedication towards the welfare of others may be rewarded through specialist home loans that make it easier to become a property owner.

Home Loans

24 Mar, 2023

6 min read

Home loan benefits for medical professionals
Peter Terlato

Personal Finance Editor

Can a temporary resident get a home loan?

A temporary resident home loan may allow you to buy a property in Australia, though you will need to meet specific eligibility and financial requirements and conditions.

Home Loans

23 Mar, 2023

5 min read

Can a temporary resident get a home loan?
Peter Terlato

Personal Finance Editor

Can I take out a loan against my home’s equity?

You can use the equity you've built up over time to secure a loan. But before you can take out any loans against home equity you’ll need to work out exactly how much equity you have available.

Home Loans

21 Mar, 2023

5 min read

Can I take out a loan against my home’s equity?
Alex Ritchie

Personal Finance Editor

What can you do if your co-owner is not paying the mortgage?

Co-owning property with someone has many benefits but also comes with risks. Find out how you can deal with the situation when your co-owner is not paying the mortgage.

Home Loans

21 Mar, 2023

5 min read

What can you do if your co-owner is not paying the mortgage?
Peter Terlato

Personal Finance Editor

Do you need a home loan for a houseboat?

Despite being utilised as a home, a houseboat is unlikely to qualify for a mortgage in Australia. Home loans are generally reserved for fixed property. If you’re looking to borrow to buy a houseboat, you’ll more likely need to secure a personal loan.

Home Loans

21 Mar, 2023

3 min read

Do you need a home loan for a houseboat?
Mark Bristow

Personal Finance Editor

A guide to single-parent home loans

If you’re a single parent with a single income, getting a home loan approved may seem daunting. However, being prepared and not rushing into a decision may help you get through the process with minimal stress. Spending some time doing your research and preparing your finances early can help make the process as smooth as possible.

Home Loans

20 Mar, 2023

5 min read

A guide to single-parent home loans