Entries by admin

The Pros and Cons of investing in Commercial Property

The debate on whether it’s better to invest in residential over commercial continues to divide investors. Proponents of investing in residential say it’s the least risky option, while those who are in favour of commercial would argue that commercial is safer due to its cash flow potential. Many investors of course don’t choose between the […]

Loans involving family & friends

Has a family member or friend asked you to be a ‘co-borrower’ or guarantee a loan for them? Before you say yes, think carefully – you could lose not only your money, but valuable assets such as your house or car. What is a guarantor or co-borrower? Co-borrower You are a co-borrower if you sign […]

Should you Renovate Before you Sell?

With TV shows such as The Block and Reno Rumble gaining immense popularity in the last few years, many homeowners have been inspired to carry out their own makeovers and add value to their homes. A question real estate agents often get asked is “should we renovate before we put our home on the market?”. […]

Interest Only Loans: – Is it a ticking bomb?

Why are APRA and the RBA so concerned? The common aim with property investors is to create long term wealth by amassing a property or few then allowing the real estate market to increase whilst keeping expenses low. An easy way to attack this strategy is by structuring the investment loan as interest only (keeping […]

Reserve Bank of Australia: Again, no change in cash rates

2nd May 2017 As lenders continue with their out of cycle rate increases the Reserve Bank of Australia has kept the official cash rate on hold at 1.5% for the ninth month in a row. This decision was widely anticipated by economic and finance experts across the country given the current national and international environment. […]

Why does my broker ask for so much documentation?

No one likes paperwork; however, providing your broker with the right documentation will save you time and money. What information will your broker ask you to provide? When you ask to enlist the services of a broker, they will probably ask you for the following documentation: Identification, including photo ID such as driver licence Income […]

What is rent-vesting? Could it be for you?

Many people are feeling locked out of the housing market as prices in the areas they want to live become increasingly unaffordable. However, sometimes the best way to approach something is from the side, rather than from the front. More and more young couples and families are figuring out that the key to achieving their […]

Tips that will help you slash your mortgage payments

  Your mortgage is one of the biggest financial commitments you’ll ever make—and it’s one that will last years. Ill-informed decisions can easily cost you hundreds of thousands of dollars over the lifespan of your home loan. This translates to less money for savings, your children’s education, retirement, and living expenses. Most borrowers are surprised […]

Reserve Bank of Australia: No change in cash rates for another month.

4th April 2017 At its board meeting today the Reserve Bank of Australia decided to leave the official cash rate unchanged. As widely predicted, the RBA has kept rates on hold as it continues to work in unison with the regulators to stem concerns around the growth of the Sydney and Melbourne property markets. Assisting […]