Have you ever wondered how lenders decide whether to grant you that desired home loan? Your credit report holds significant importance in their decision-making process. Think of it as your financial report card, showcasing your payment habits and borrowing history. Discover what you need to know about credit reports and why your credit score plays a vital role in your journey toward homeownership. What is a credit report and why is it important? A credit report summarises your credit behav...

There’s nothing quite like the buzz of seeing these words in your inbox: “Settlement Confirmed!” Settlement day can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. But once the formalities are done, it’s all worth it. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or are new to how settlement works, find out what you need to know. What is settlement day? Settlement day is when ownership of a property is legally transferred from one party to another. It’s facilitated by your le...

The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) is facing a major overhaul following an independent review. What does it mean for interest rates and for Australian mortgage holders? Find out. Why was there a review? Treasurer Jim Chalmers announced the review in July 2022 – the first review of the RBA since the central bank started to target inflation in the early 1990s. “The Review is all about ensuring Australia’s central bank and monetary policy arrangements are as stro...

Do you know how much you owe on your HECS-HELP debt? Recent high inflation means millions of Australians with student loan debts are facing a 7.1% increase from 1 June, up from 3.9% the previous year. Your HECS-HELP debt is an important piece of information that lenders take into consideration when assessing your application for a home loan, so it’s important to understand yours. Find out more about how indexation will impact you. What is HECS-HELP? The Higher Education L...

Sorting through heaps of receipts to figure out your allowable deductions isn’t anyone’s idea of a good time, right? Property investment can be a rewarding venture, but it comes with its share of responsibilities, especially when tax season rolls around. To help you navigate the world of tax deductions, we’ve put together a tax checklist for property investors. Follow these steps for a less stressful tax season: 1) Organise your documents early Start by organising your d...