Mark Bristow

Do home equity loans require a credit check?

While different lenders may assess home equity loan applications differently, a credit check may be one of the steps involved. If you’re concerned about your credit score affecting your application, it may be worth learning more about exactly what’s required to help improve your application’s chance of approval.

Can you combine your home equity loan into your mortgage?

If you hold equity in a property, you may be able to use it to access a loan or a line of credit to help you cover the cost of major expenses or household projects. You may be able to choose between managing your home equity loan separately or combining it with your existing mortgage, though there are pros and cons to each approach.

ANZ has a change of heart and hikes its most popular savings accounts

ANZ has had a change of heart, today hiking its popular savings accounts, after initially leaving them untouched following the August cash rate increase.

Getting a home valuation for home equity loan: what you need to know

To access the equity in your home you’ll need to know your property’s current value. To get an accurate figure a property valuation may be required, though the type of valuation may depend upon your property and financial situation.

How much does an average home renovation cost?

Estimating the cost of a home renovation can feel a bit like estimating the length of a piece of string. The answer will vary depending on the type of renovation, your personal financial situation, and a wide range of other factors.

How long is a typical home equity loan term?

Depending on the type of home equity loan you choose, there may be different loan term options available. Your choice of home equity loan could make a big difference to your financial future, as well as the overall cost of your home equity loan.

Some of the best home loans for investors and refinancers in August 2022

Refinancing has been accelerating in recent months, with many mortgage holders looking to switch to more affordable home loans following multiple months of rate hikes. While low-rate home loans are becoming much harder to find, there are still options available that could offer a great deal of value to the right borrower.

Do I need a house valuation for probate? What you to know about deceased estates

Becoming the executor for a deceased estate can be daunting. While you’re dealing with your grief for the departed, you’re also taking responsibility for the will they left behind. Understanding some of the requirements and responsibilities involved when dealing with a deceased estate can help to ensure that everybody is well looked after, financially and emotionally.

Home renovations that may give you the best return on investment

If you can’t afford to renovate your entire home, you may want to think carefully about where you want to commit your time and money. Whether you’re renovating to sell, or looking to grow your home’s long-term value, renovating certain areas of the home could provide a much bigger return on investment.

Most common renovation mistakes and how to avoid them

Renovating a property can give you or your tenants a more comfortable place to live, and potentially help to improve its value for easier refinancing or selling in the future. But there are also some easy mistakes to make that could affect both the results of your renovation project and your financial future.