Laine Gordon

Mortgage pain is buyer's gain

In suburbs around the country a growing number of households are being forced to sell their homes as the economic slowdown puts mortgage repayments beyond their reach.

Smokers quit for $100,000 reward

There are smoke-free bars, smoke-free restaurants, and even smoke-free prisons. But a smoke-free country?

Mortgage defaults soar, despite falling rates

More homeowners are falling behind on mortgage repayments, despite rate cuts and a low unemployment rate, research suggests.

City stamp duty overhaul

In a bid to boost the number of city residents in Adelaide, the State Government has announced a plan to ease stamp duty at a cost of $5.6 million.

Aussies look abroad for new mortgage model

Millions of Australians with variable-rate home loans sweat on the decision made by Reserve Bank about interest rates. But in countries like the United States, it's a very different story. There, homebuyers can lock in a 30 year fixed rate mortgage at an interest rate just under 4 percent.

Plastic surgery gives the economy a lift

Forget tough economic times; Australians will spend around $850 million on cosmetic surgery this year, research suggests.

Millions struggle to repay debt, yet seek more

More than 2.7 million Australians are struggling to pay their current credit commitments, research suggests. Despite this, 25 percent also admitted they would seek to overcome difficulty by increasing their credit card limit, mortgage or loan.

Cars with the worst safety records

Porsche drivers could be three times more likely to be involved in an accident on the road than Daewoo drivers, research suggests.

Understanding hospital and extras cover

When it comes to buying private health insurance there are two main types – hospital and extras. The level of cover you choose determines the procedures and services you’re covered for – but as a rule of thumb the higher the level of cover the more you’ll be able to claim and the more money you’ll typically get back.

Health cover for the whole family

Understanding health insurance can be tricky with waiting periods, excess, rebates and surcharges to think about – particularly if you’re part of a couple or family and need cover to suit the whole gang. Here are some tips to help put you on the right path and find suitable cover at the best price for your greatest assets – your family.