Home Loans Articles

How much does a concrete driveway cost?

The exact cost of adding a driveway to your home may vary depending on a range of factors, from the materials being used to the size and shape of the area where it will be installed. Here are some of the factors that you may need to consider when budgeting for a driveway, before working out finance options.

What is mortgage protection insurance?

Your home mortgage is typically your biggest debt obligation, so if you’re worried about how you’ll manage repayments if your income stops, you might want to consider buying mortgage protection insurance.

What is an off market property sale and should you consider it?

There are a number of ways to buy a property, and each method has its pros and cons. While most people are aware of private treaty sales and auctions, not many know about unlisted or off market properties that might offer the benefit of exclusivity or reduced competition.

What is the difference between a gift of equity and a gifted deposit?

A gifted deposit and a gift of equity are based on similar concepts, but different regulations govern them. See which one is best suited for which situations.

Who owns my bank or lender in Australia?

Did you know that even if you’ve chosen to become a customer of one of Australia’s alternative banks, you could still be banking with the big four? Learning more about which banks own other banks and lenders can help you get a more complete picture of Australia’s banking landscape, which could be helpful when making financial decisions.

How does buying a home with a 5% deposit compare to a 20% deposit?

Government initiatives are helping Australians buy their first home sooner with a smaller deposit. But is it better to enter the market as soon as you can, or hold off until you’ve saved at least 20%?

Is Property a Good Investment? | RateCity

Investing in real estate could be a great long-term strategy for some Australians but is not usually a get rich quick scheme. So, where do you start?

Is every mortgage calculator the same?

Taking on a home loan may seem like a massive long-term financial commitment, which it can be. But by following a few simple tips you could ease the burden and save yourself tens of thousands of dollars in the process.

What can you do if your co-owner is not paying the mortgage?

Co-owning property with someone has many benefits but also comes with risks. Find out how you can deal with the situation when your co-owner is not paying the mortgage.

How to Buy Somone Out of a House Mortgage - RateCity

Buying your partner out of a joint mortgage can depend on whether you are joint tenants or tenants in common, and on whether you can afford the house on your own.

What is mortgage restructuring?

Mortgage restructuring can help you keep up with your mortgage in difficult times by changing the terms of your mortgage. But if you only want a lower interest rate, you may consider refinancing your home loan.

What are mortgage exit fees?

In July 2011 the government abolished home loan exit fees so that borrowers would no longer be discouraged from switching home loans to a more competitive lender. While this has created a healthier and more competitive home loan market it is still important to take note of the other fees and charges associated with home loans.

How to find the best home loan for you

Choosing the right home loan is a serious decision. There are hundreds of lenders and thousands of products and options available.

How can I get a home loan with no deposit and no guarantor?

Few lenders will offer you a home loan with no deposit and no guarantor, and you may have to pay Lender’s Mortgage Insurance (LMI) in such a case. Remember to check the loan conditions.

How home loan calculators can help you

Whether you’re buying your first home, refinancing your mortgage, or looking to buy an investment property, it’s usually a good idea to make some calculations to work out if you’re making the best choice for your financial situation.

What are construction home loans?

Learn more about what is a construction loan and find a construction loan that suits your renovation schedule and budget.

How to buy your first home

Ready to take the step from renter to home owner? It’s one of the biggest financial commitments you may ever make, so it’s important to get an understanding of the process involved before taking the plunge.

What is a basic home loan?

A basic home loan does exactly what it says on the tin – it’s where you borrow money to buy a property. Basic home loans are popular with some borrowers as they often have lower interest rates and fees than other options. However, basic home loans may not offer the popular features and benefits that could deliver extra value to some mortgage holders.