Mark Bristow

Housing affordability stopping first home buyers in their tracks – what alternatives are available?

A new report shows that housing affordability is still hitting first home buyers (FHBs) hard, with just 57% of FHBs thinking now is a good time to buy, compared to 67% last year. As pathways to traditional home ownership become harder to tread, many FHBs are open to alternative strategies.

Will my car loan affect my mortgage application?

A car loan may positively or negatively affect your mortgage application. Successfully managing your car loan repayments could help improve your credit score, which may make a better impression on mortgage lenders. But if your car loan would push your debt-to-income ratio too high, a lender may be less likely to approve your mortgage application.

How much superannuation should you have at age 40?

The amount of superannuation you should have at age 40 will depend on how much money you want to have at retirement. That, in turn, will depend on how much money you expect to spend each week during your modest retirement or comfortable retirement.

Can an international student have a term deposit?

Banking for overseas students can be complicated, but you may still be able to steadily grow your funds as an international student by using a term deposit. 

How easy is it to get a credit card?

For most Australians, there are no great barriers to applying for and getting approved for a credit card. Comparing credit cards to learn more about their eligibility criteria could give you a better idea of how easy it may be to see your credit card application approved.

Can I get a car loan if I am on disability benefit?

Not every lender will accept pensions or government benefits as income when assessing loan applications, though some lenders will. Borrowers on disability benefits can still apply for a car loan, though it’s important to calculate if you can comfortably afford the loan before you apply. 

How to budget for a home loan with a repayment calculator

Most Australians dream of owning a home. Even if this dream may seem out of reach, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t start saving and researching how to reach your homeowner goal.

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

The interest rate rises announced following the Reserve Bank of Australia’s (RBA’s) November 2022 meeting have come into effect. While new lending has reportedly plummeted, with the year’s combined rate rises knocking $214k off the average home loan budget, existing homeowners and investors could find themselves in a position to refinance to a mortgage that offers greater value for their financial situation.

Can you find your bank account number online?

If your bank offers online services, you should be able to find your bank account number online by logging into your account on your bank’s website and checking your details there.

Why this could be the time to invest in solar

The cost of living is high and rising, with energy bills playing a significant role. With this in mind, could the potential financial benefits of a solar power system be worth the installation costs?