How traffic noise can impact property values
Does Transport Noise Impact Property Value? Here’s What the Research Says Location Matters—But Noise Can Cost You “Close to public transport” is often marketed as a major selling point for home buyers. But new research shows that living too close to busy roads, railways, or flight paths can significantly reduce property values. How Close Is […]
Low cost renos to help keep your home cosy
It’s been a long, hot summer, but the seasons are shifting and it’s time to prepare for the cooler months ahead. A few simple improvements could help keep your home snug without overheating your power bills. It’s almost time to pack away the boardies, swap sarongs for sweaters and cross from cricket to footy. As […]
Was that the shortest property downturn ever?
The so-called market ‘downturn’ we saw over the last few months was a blink-and-you-miss-it affair. Home prices are once again on the up. We unpack what’s happening – and why now could be a good time to buy. Jeepers. That didn’t last long. Back in early January, CoreLogic declared Australia’s housing market had entered a downturn after […]
Changes coming to mortgage rules for Uni grads
Could Changes to HECS/HELP Debt Rules Boost Your Home Loan Borrowing Power? Good news for millions of student debt holders If you’re one of the three million Australians carrying a HECS or HELP debt, your path to homeownership might be getting a little easier. The federal government is considering new lending rule changes that could […]
RBA cuts the cash rate for the first time since 2020
Finally, a long-awaited reprieve for borrowers. The Reserve Bank of Australia has today cut the cash rate by 25 basis points to 4.10%. How much could this rate cut decrease your monthly mortgage repayments? And can we expect more cuts this year? This is the first time the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has cut […]
The scheme that’s helped 193,000 Aussies buy a first home
If you’re in the market for a first home, there’s one scheme you should know about. It’s called the Home Guarantee Scheme, and it could slash the time it takes to buy a place of your own by several years. Here’s how it works. Saving that all-important 20% deposit for a first home isn’t easy […]
What happens to my home loan if interest rates fall?
Great news for home owners – plenty of economists are tipping an RBA rate cut for February. Assuming it happens, once the celebrations have died down, what next? We explain what to expect when rates head south. It’s been a long time between drinks for home owners celebrating a rate cut. The last time the […]
The top 5 location turn-offs for Aussie home buyers
Ever spotted a bargain property and then thought to yourself: ‘What’s the catch?’ Well, more often than not there’s a good reason behind a lower-than-expected price tag. And while an undesirable location might not be a deal breaker for you, it could make it harder to sell later. Beautiful home, dead quiet neighbours. Sounds brilliant, […]
How to finance your 2025 home renovation
Bathroom blitz? Kitchen kit out? Or perhaps some landscaping love might be on your house upgrade wishlist for 2025? If so, it’s worth knowing what reno finance options are available. Today we’ll explain some ways to fund your home improvement project. Spending on home renovations has boomed over the past five years, and it seems we’re […]
Decisions decisions… Fixed-rate vs variable
Amid growing expectations of rate cuts in 2025, sticking with a variable home loan rate can seem like a no-brainer. But not so fast. Locking in your home loan rate can also have upsides, including the potential for a lower rate right now. Home loans come in all shapes and sizes. A common thread is […]