Mark Bristow

Fewer Aussie houses selling

Construction activity around Australia may be at record high levels, but according to CoreLogic, a lower proportion of housing stock is selling, leaving housing turnover close to the record low.

Pros and cons of car loans versus cash car sales

When buying a car, it’s important to consider all of your options. As well as thinking about what car you should buy, you should consider how you plan to pay for it. There are several different options available, each with their own pros and cons, including paying cash to buy a car upfront, and taking out a car loan to be repaid over time.

More investors looking for help from mortgage brokers

Recent regulatory changes to the Australian mortgage market have led an increasing number of property investors to turn to mortgage brokers for help securing their finances.

Counting the true cost of moving house

New research has found that many Australian home buyers aren’t considering the costs of moving house, which often turn out to be much higher than initially anticipated.

What is the purchase rate?

When you think of credit card interest rates, you’re probably thinking of the purchase rate – the interest you’ll need to pay on typical credit card purchases, made in-store or online.

New limits for payday loans and consumer leases

The federal government is drafting legislation designed to help protect vulnerable Australians from being stung by payday loans, consumer leases, and similar small credit products.

Ranking Australia's states and territories by economy

A recent report has found that out of Australia’s states and territories, South Australia has experienced the strongest improvement in economic performance over the last quarter, though New South Wales remains at the front of the pack.

Affordability eases for owner occupiers, toughens for investors

While increasing levels of government regulation have made housing affordability tougher for property investors in recent months, conditions have eased slightly for owner occupiers as a result, according to the Housing Industry Association (HIA).

Bankruptcies and debt agreements hit highs

More Australians are struggling to manage debt, mortgage stress and financial hardship, with the number of bankruptcies and debt agreements around the country increasing over the past three months.

How much of my credit card should I pay off each month?

Credit cards offer a convenient way to borrow large or small amounts of money whenever you need it, which can prove very useful in the right circumstances. But of course, any money you borrow will need to be paid back, with interest over time.