Laine Gordon

How to escape the 'renew' effect with your term deposit

Term deposits and what to be aware of when your investment reaches maturity. Most of us want to get more for our money, and term deposits are fast becoming a popular short-term option for investors to turn your cash into greater wealth.

No incentives, no worries - 2010 is ripe for home buyers

Find the upside to downward pressure on the home loan market. Despite rising interest rates and the drawback of government incentives, 2010 may be the perfect time to buy a home, according to some mortgage experts.

Low doc, high cost Be careful of low doc home loans

A growing number of Australians take up the option of self-employment each year, and for many, a ‘low doc’ loan offers the key to home ownership. Low doc home loans are pitched specifically at borrowers who can’t meet lenders’ traditional proof of income requirements.

Online savers up the ante with generous rates

We love to hate them, but the banks are doing their best to woo us, or at least to convince us to entrust our savings to them. The most obvious manifestation of the banks’ attempt to snare a bigger slice of savings is the rapidly growing interest rates being offered by online savings accounts.

How much will you pay for home loan satisfaction?

In the wake of Australia’s economic recovery, major banks have reported record profits and market share growth. This has raised concerns about the direction of banking competition in the country

Need some money? Unlock the equity in your home

A line of credit or equity home loan is a short-term solution available to take help take the pressure off. It allows you to access funds as you need them, giving you the flexibility to pay for that new kitchen or bathroom

What options do first home buyers have?

Australians hoping to snap up their first home this year will have to tackle growing property prices, rising interest rates and the continuation of tight lending conditions, all without the help of the First Home Owners Boost.

Rising rates will cost households $3.34 billion in 2010

Like both sides of a coin, low unemployment levels and rising home prices are indicative of an economy making a comeback from the GFC but on the flip side Australian households are being hit hard with constant interest rates hikes.

Perfect match Finding the right car insurance cover

If you apply the same commitment to finding a partner when choosing car insurance, you will find the right fit while saving time and money. Searching for the right type of car insurance cover can be like searching for that special someone.

Borrowers snub home loans after rate hikes and lower incentives

Home loans have been on the decline in recent months, potentially due to the consecutive rate increases towards the end of 2009. With interest rates expected to rise even higher, borrowers are scrambling for more competitive deals.