14/05/2018
July 1st 2018 will see the arrival of Comprehensive (or Positive) Credit Reporting. Not sure what this is or if it impacts you? Read on… Changes are coming to Australia’s credit reporting system that will affect your credit file. Previously, your credit file has only shown negative credit information such as payment defaults, court judgements and bankruptcies. But thanks to some changes to the Privacy Act, your credit file will now include a lot more information about your credit history. Banks and other organisations specifically permitted by law will be able to access a whole lot more information on how […]
07/05/2018
It can be tempting to stay in your home when you’re renovating, rather than spending money on rent. But is it really a good idea? Consider the pros and cons before you make a decision. Advantages of staying in your home You’ll keep your creature comforts and sleep at the same address, but what are the real advantages of living in the middle of a renovation? Save money The expense of moving out of your home while you renovate can be significant. You may also need to rent another property or stay at a hotel. Living in your own house […]
25/04/2018
If you want to modernise your kitchen but you’re concerned about the cost, don’t be dismayed. There are many ways to get a new kitchen without destroying your bank balance. Downgrade to upgrade Saving money doesn’t mean you have to compromise on everything in your new kitchen. Select a few fittings or features that you want to spend a little more on, then budget in other areas. For example, if you have your heart set on a granite benchtop, perhaps you could have a tiled splashback instead of a glass one. By choosing one or two standout features, you can […]
20/04/2018
Finding the right real estate agent to sell your property can be daunting. These helpful tips can make the experience a whole lot easier. Do some research The key to finding the right real estate agent is doing a bit of research. Start by making a short list of agents in your area. Then, investigate which ones might match what you’re looking for – for instance, do they sell more houses or apartments? Do they specialise in auctions or private sales? Are they a boutique agency or part of a national chain? There are websites such as Local Agent Finder […]
16/04/2018
Mortgage brokers, loan pre-approval, fixed versus variable rate loans, stamp duty, conveyancing…..if you’re new to Australia, the language of home buying can seem mystifying. Here are some of the things you need to know to get yourself on the road to the great Australian dream. Keep in mind, however, that speaking with an expert is the best way to get the latest information. Restrictions on foreign ownership Before you get started, make sure you’re aware of the ownership restrictions for foreign buyers. If you’re not an Australian citizen or permanent resident, you may need permission from the Foreign Investment Review […]
19/03/2018
Mortgage brokers have expertise in residential and other property loans. They can also play an important role in helping businesses find and secure commercial and asset finance at competitive rates, by leveraging their network of lending institutions. With so many lenders and products to choose from, it’s important to get the right business funding mix from the outset. Many brokers have a deep understanding of the commercial sector and the wide range of products available. They’re well placed to identify the most appropriate financing structures for you, based on your type of business and specific needs. Here are some advantages […]
18/03/2018
A question to all the home and property buyers out there…If the unthinkable happened and you couldn’t afford to make your loan repayments – do you have adequate protection in place? A good article here on the risks of being underinsured.
22/02/2018
Is the key to saving a home deposit as simple as giving up smashed avo toast for breakfast? Well not quite, but spending less does make a difference. On top of a budget, a savings plan and strategies such as a high-interest savings account, an effective way to save is to reduce or eliminate expenses. Understand your spend It can be easy to lose track of how you’re spending money, especially due to cashless payments and credit cards. Many online banking systems include tools to categorise debits and make a budget – take advantage of them. Or download an app that helps you […]
16/10/2017
With all the focus on the headline CPI each quarter, it’s easy to forget that it’s made up of a ‘basket’ of good and services. This helpful infographic plots out the different data series from the ABS over the last 20 years. Source: www.livewiremarkets.com Disclaimer WARNING: General advice only. Clients are advised to discuss, with their financial advisor, the appropriateness of each recommendation, together with the general and specific risks of investing having regard to personal financial needs, objectives and financial circumstances.