Mark Bristow

Why is my super going down?

The balance in your superannuation account generally rises over time as you accumulate contributions from your employer. However, super fees and changing investment performance can lead to dips in your super balance. 

Causes of inflation

One of the main reasons the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) raises interest rates is to bring down high inflation. But what exactly is inflation, what factors push it upwards, and how does raising interest rates push it back down?

Personal Loan vs Home Loan: Which offers a better deal? 

When financing a renovation or buying a big-ticket item, some homeowners use their home loan to access the money they need. Others finance their project by taking out a personal loan instead. So which option is the best choice to help you reach your goals?

What to expect on settlement day

A property sale is said to “settle” when the property changes hands from one owner to another. While the buyer and seller don’t usually need to do much on settlement day, it’s worth understanding the processes that the solicitors, conveyancers, real estate agents and mortgage lenders are taking care of behind the scenes. 

Can you afford an investment property deposit?

Buying an investment property may require an upfront deposit of 20 per cent of the property’s value. If you haven’t saved up enough cash to afford a deposit, there may be other options available to help you invest in property.

Choosing between a used and a new car

Buying a new car often comes with advantages, like a warranty, access to more modern features, and often easier loan options. But it’s also typically a more expensive option compared to purchasing a used car.

Can you be your own mortgage broker?

Any Australian who thoroughly researches the home loan market and carefully compares mortgage offers could enjoy similar results to visiting a mortgage broker. While there may be some advantages to being your own broker, there are also potential benefits from having a broker in your corner.

Some of the best home loans for investors and refinancers in January 2023

Rising inflation figures indicate that the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) is more likely to raise the national cash rate again later this year. With these hikes likely to be quickly passed on as higher mortgage rates, Australians hoping to invest in property or refinance their home loan may want to compare their options to make sure they’re getting value for money.

Does home size matter for a mortgage?

Purchasing a smaller property can often be more affordable than buying a larger property, and may offer different lifestyle benefits to some owner occupiers or to tenants of an investment property. However, it may be harder to successfully apply for a mortgage on some smaller properties due to the potential financial risk involved.  

Can mortgage brokers get you a bigger mortgage?

Mortgage brokers can provide valuable support on your home loan journey. By looking closely at your financial situation, a broker may be able to recommend home loan offers that closely suit your needs and goals, which could help increase your borrowing capacity and buying power.