Mark Bristow

When do you need a house valuation for property tax?

Becoming a property owner can have its advantages, but it can also mean paying taxes you may never have considered before. Getting a property valuation can help to make sure you’re paying the right amount of tax for your property.

Personal overdraft vs personal loan

Different types of financial products can help you achieve a variety of personal goals, from managing your everyday expenses to covering the cost of a large purchase. A personal overdraft may be able to help Australians with several similar problems as a personal loan, so which one may be the best choice for you?

What are blue chip shares?

Named after what are traditionally the most expensive poker chips in a casino, blue chip stocks are generally thought of as some of the top options for investors to consider. So what gives a share “blue chip” status, and what can you expect from an investment in blue chip stocks? 

What is a unicorn company?

In finance, a privately-held start-up company is considered a “unicorn” if it’s valued at over $1 billion. Investors often go hunting for unicorns to benefit from their success.

Will rising interest rates crash the housing market?

Interest rates around Australia are expected to continue to rise, raising the cost of loan repayments and increasing the pressure on many household budgets. But could these rate hikes also bring Australia’s housing market to a screeching halt?

What to expect when your bank gets bought out

ANZ’s planned purchase of Suncorp Bank could not only affect its business, but its customers as well. What could happen to you if your bank or lender suddenly became the property of another banking brand?

Which Sydney areas are at the highest risk of mortgage stress?

With home loan interest rates having risen significantly following multiple hikes to the national cash rate, some Australian mortgage holders may be under increasing financial pressure. This includes homeowners in parts of Sydney; a city that has struggled with housing affordability.

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

Multiple back-to-back hikes to the national cash rate from the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) may be putting pressure on the budgets of many Australian mortgage holders, leading to more discussions of refinancing. But as lenders keep passing on the RBA rate hikes (which are forecast to continue), how can you be confident that you’re getting a home loan that will suit your needs?

Can your crypto help you get a home loan?

Many Australians have chosen to build their wealth through investment in digital assets such as bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies. But could your crypto help you invest in in bricks and mortar assets such as real estate by helping you secure a home loan?

How to shop for a home equity loan

A home equity loan lets you put the value of a property to work, whether you want to renovate your home or buy another property. Understanding how to compare home equity loans and knowing what you’ll need to apply can help make your experience smoother.