It’s easy to get carried away with the fun part of buying a property – looking at houses – but delaying the less compelling task of arranging finance will weaken your negotiating position on both the property and the loan. Looking for a property to purchase is an exciting time. Choices regarding location, size, number […]
The Best Interest Duty (BID) for mortgage brokers came into effect 1 January 2021. The Best Interest Duty and related obligations ensure that you receive advice that meets your objectives, financial situation and needs, and that we act in your best interests when providing this advice. What does that really mean for you? In short, […]
What a difference a year makes. After the turmoil of lockdowns and employment uncertainty around this time last year, things are looking up for many of our clients – in more ways than one! 26% of Australians say their families are now ‘better off’ financially than this time last year and some recent auction clearance […]
The dream of home ownership is a tough one for many Australians to fulfil. After all, Australia is one of the most expensive countries to live in. But it’s not just the cost of living and property pricing that delays our property buying. The road to home ownership can be a long and winding one […]
Your 5 step financial health check Many of us have faced financial challenges over the past year and as a result some may have asked themselves “how could I have better prepared for a financial emergency?” Here are five easy steps to help take control of your finances and prepare for an emergency: 1. CREATE […]
Well, 2020 was a year we will never forget. Many of us endured personal and financial challenges that forced us to adjust our lifestyle and priorities – some significantly and some for the better! While we adapt to a new COVID-normal, life should prove to be more stable and positive this year. We can use […]
Knowing what a property is worth is central to avoiding paying too much for it. Set a benchmark Comparing nearby properties that have sold recently is the best way to assess an acceptable price for the property you are looking at and provides a valuable bargaining tool when you are negotiating with a seller or […]
Asking how long it takes to get a loan approved is like asking how long a piece of string is. Every application is unique, so the time between your first contact with your bank or broker and approval can never be predetermined. There are, however, some things you can do to help hurry your application […]
While some view LMI as being exclusively beneficial for lenders, we explore the value for first home buyers. Not to be confused with mortgage protection insurance (which is designed to protect the borrower), LMI is insurance that covers the lender’s risk within a residential mortgage transaction should the loan go into arrears and the borrower […]
Investment in real property, such as residential real estate, is likely to be a lengthy process and one that usually involves a plan for the long term. To ensure you have considered what is required before making the big purchase, we’ve outlined steps you need to take in that process. Make the commitment A property […]