Yes, it's possible, with a little forward planning and smart money management. During the summer months, many Australians have thoughts of buying their own holiday house. After all, who wouldn't want a tree-or beach-side getaway to use at your leisure? Having a holiday house is especially appealing if you're one of those people (or families) who love holidaying in the same spot every year. The obvious considerations when it comes to buying a holiday house are the co...

Firstly, a holiday budget should include ALL your expenses. Often the biggest holiday spending culprits aren't just the gifts you put under the tree, there are also the annual get-togethers with friends, tickets for raffles around the office to support local charities, teacher gifts, the office Secret Santa - the list goes on. Here are six ways to have a great holiday season on a budget. Make a list Make a list of who you have to shop for and ask yourself if you're really e...

Looking to buy an investment property? Finding the right location is crucial to the success of your investment. Here are some tips to help you choose the right spot. Tip #1: Ask us to explain your borrowing capacity Before you start shopping for your investment property, it's important to understand how much a bank is likely to lend you for the purchase. Having a clear understanding of your borrowing capacity will help you to narrow down your suburb search. Speak to us and we'...

Buying property at auction can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. But careful planning can make the process a whole lot easier. Here are five tips for nailing the bidding experience and maximising your chances of success on the day. 1. Attend plenty of auctions before you bid Before your bidding debut, it's important to observe several auctions to understand how they work. Get a feel for the language used and the process involved. In general, here's what you might expect: ...

If you think downsizing is a step backwards, think again. There are many reasons why downsizing has become a popular choice for homeowners, especially retirees. Let's take a look. 1. Less maintenance and upkeep While larger properties offer more space, they also require more cleaning, gardening and upkeep. For some, the time and money involved can be better spent elsewhere. This is especially applicable if the kids have left home and certain areas of the property are no longer bei...