Jodie Humphries

Personal Finance Editor

Jodie Humphries is an experienced Personal & Home Finances Editor for RateCity with expertise in financial topics, including credit, loans, superannuation, mortgage and housing, insurance, telecommunications, and more. For over a decade, Jodie's journalism and editing career has seen work published at both Finder and Sharesight, and as one of RateCity's chief contributors, Jodie spends her time working on ways to make personal finances within reach of everyone in Australia.

561 articles written by Jodie Humphries

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Car Loans

How to buy a car that has a loan on it

Buying a car with an existing loan is possible, but the process needs to be handled carefully. You will need to know the status of the loan and how it’s expected to be settled before you close the deal.

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Home Loans

Finding suitable mortgage lenders for discharged bankrupts

Getting a loan as a discharged bankrupt is possible, but you may need to look for a specialist lender. Learn about the process and mortgage companies that deal with bankruptcies. 

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Car Loans

What is a novated lease’s balloon payment?

When the term of a novated lease ends, you can choose to own the car by making a balloon payment. You can also refinance the novated lease and potentially save on taxes.

How much equity is needed for a reverse mortgage?
Home Loans

How much equity is needed for a reverse mortgage?

Before you apply for a reverse mortgage, find out the requirements and how much equity you’ll need for a reverse mortgage.

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Energy

The difference between business and residential electric rates

There are differences in how business and residential electricity is supplied, which means there are differences in the prices. Find out what these differences are.

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Car Loans

Can you use a home equity loan to buy a car?

If you’re contemplating buying a new car, it may be tempting to use your home equity to finance it. However, there are some reasons why a car loan may make more sense. Read on to learn more.

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Home Loans

Who pays the mortgage when separated?

Separation is a difficult process, which leaves many financial questions. One of the many questions may be “Who pays the mortgage when you separate?” 

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Home Loans

Complaints against mortgage companies: What you need to know

The responsible lending criteria set by the Australian government means your lender has a responsibility to ensure that a credit product is suitable for you, and to take steps to verify your financial situation before approving your home loan application. But what if you received a home loan you’re now struggling to repay? 

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Home Loans

Can I get a second mortgage for a rental property?

If you’ve owned your home for long enough, you’re likely to have built some equity in it, giving you several options for financing your second home or rental property. For instance, you can leverage your home equity by refinancing your home loan for a higher amount, or take out a second mortgage using the same property as collateral. 

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Home Loans

How to calculate the loan-to-value ratio for your home loan 

Understanding your loan-to-value ratio (LVR) is and how it impacts your mortgage is crucial to ensure you can stay on top of your home loan. Learn more about LVR and how to measure it.