Resources

Buying your first home is an exciting, yet often overwhelming experience. One of the key steps in this process is negotiating with real estate agents to secure the best deal on your dream home. While the idea of negotiating might feel daunting, it’s an important skill that can help you save money and avoid potential pitfalls. Understanding how to approach these negotiations and what to focus on will give you the confidence to make informed decisions and secure the best possible outcome.

Buying your next home is an exciting step, but before you start browsing listings and attending open houses, it's important to consider whether you need a home loan pre-approval. A pre-approval can offer clarity and confidence in your property search, but is it essential? Let’s explore what pre-approval means, its benefits, and whether it’s the right choice for your next home purchase.

When considering purchasing your next property, it is essential to assess your financial position and determine how much you can afford to spend. There are several pathways depending on whether you are upsizing, using a bridging loan, or keeping your existing home as an investment property. Below, we explore these scenarios in detail using sample figures.

A reverse mortgage can be a useful financial tool for older Australians who want to access the wealth tied up in their home without having to sell it. It allows homeowners, typically aged 60 or over, to borrow money using the equity in their home as security. But how does it actually work? Here’s a breakdown of the key features and what you should consider.

When it comes to purchasing a property, one of the most important steps in the process is determining how much you can borrow. Your borrowing capacity – or the maximum amount a lender is willing to offer you – is influenced by various financial factors. One of the most significant of these is your existing debt. If you're considering buying a home and currently have personal loans, car finance, credit card balances, or other financial obligations, you may be wondering: should I clear my debts first, or can I still get a mortgage? Let’s explore how existing debts affect your borrowing capacity, and whether paying them off beforehand is a wise move.

Inheriting a property can be a significant event, both emotionally and financially. While many people imagine receiving a home free and clear, in reality, some properties come with an existing mortgage. If you find yourself in this situation, it's important to understand your options and responsibilities.

Managing multiple debts can be stressful, especially when they come with different due dates, interest rates, and repayment amounts. Debt consolidation is a financial strategy that allows you to combine several debts—such as credit cards, personal loans, or store cards—into a single loan. This simplifies your finances and can potentially reduce your monthly repayments, but it’s important to understand how it works and whether it suits your situation.

In the ever-changing landscape of property ownership, refinancing your mortgage to fund home renovations can appear an attractive option. Whether you're looking to update a tired kitchen, add an extra bedroom, or simply modernise your home, tapping into your property’s equity could offer a practical path to achieving your goals. But is it a smart move for everyone? Let’s explore when, why, and how refinancing for renovations might make financial sense—and when it might not.

Negative gearing is a term you’ve likely heard in the context of Australian property investment, but what does it really mean—and how does it impact investors, the housing market, and taxpayers? In this article, we’ll break down the concept of negative gearing, how it works in practice, and the pros and cons associated with it.