Blogs

First home buyers can now purchase a property with as little as 5 per cent deposit without copping lenders’ mortgage insurance, after the government’s expanded First Home Guarantee Scheme came into effect on 1 October. It’s expected that 70,000 first home buyers will make the most of the scheme in its first year of expanded access. If...

Following three cash rate cuts so far this year, the lending and borrowing environment in Australia has changed drastically. As a result, more and more borrowers are breaking out of ‘mortgage prison’ and refinancing their home loans to more competitive options. If you’ve been trapped with the same lender for some time, you may be...

While some property investors prioritise rental yield – that is, how much income a property earns, as a percentage of its value – others see capital growth as the ultimate objective. There is no guaranteed way to predict the future capital growth of a suburb, but there are growth indicators that can be a strong...

The flowers are in bloom, the birds are singing, and the property world is abuzz with eager buyers. Few things energise the property market quite like the spring selling season. The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) may have left interest rates on hold at its latest meeting, but property price growth continues to trend upwards....

With interest rates falling this year, more Australians are taking a fresh look at their home loans. In fact, close to 100,000 borrowers refinanced in the June quarter alone – that’s 21% higher than the same time last year. Put simply, more than 1,000 loans are being refinanced every day. So, what’s driving this refinancing surge –...

Buying a home comes with one of the biggest decisions you’ll face – do you go for a brand new build or choose an established property? Each option has its own advantages and trade-offs, and your choice often depends on your goals, lifestyle and budget. Housing Industry Association (HIA) research found sales of new detached...

From 1 October 2025, the government’s First Home Guarantee scheme will expand, making it possible for more Australians to buy a home with a deposit as low as 5%. Whether you’re preparing to buy your first property or simply watching how the market shifts, these updates could play a big role in shaping your plans...

Spring is here, and with it comes one of the busiest times in the property market. Longer days, blooming gardens and renewed buyer confidence make this season a prime time for selling – and competition is already heating up among buyers eager to secure their next home. The latest cash rate cut has only added...

Inflation has been heading in the right direction and the Reserve Bank of Australia has cut the cash rate three times in 2025. So, is now a good time to refinance? The decision as to whether to refinance depends largely on your individual situation and goals. Here are a few key considerations to think about...

Buying an investment property in another state or territory can open the door to a range of new opportunities. From more affordable price points to higher rental yields and market diversification, there are plenty of reasons to look beyond your own backyard. But investing interstate also requires careful planning, local insight, and the right financial...

If you’re planning to buy your first home this spring, you’re not alone. It’s one of the busiest times in the property market, with more listings and more competition. That’s why it’s important to be well prepared.  Beyond interest rates, there are other features that can make a big difference to your loan and how...

The busy spring selling season is just around the corner, and it’s an exciting time for those who are looking to buy a home or investment property.  Property prices are continuing to climb to record highs across the nation, while interest rates have come down again for the third time this year.  If you’re planning on a...

With today’s cost-of-living pressures, winter can be a challenging time financially for households, especially with soaring electricity and gas bills. Here are some tips to manage your energy costs this winter and keep the household budget in check. 1) Be smart about heating Firstly, choose your heating wisely. According to Choice, reverse-cycle air con is the...

If you’re new to buying property, you’ll want to understand your credit report and how it may impact your home loan application. Think of your credit report as your financial report card, showcasing how you manage your debts and financial obligations. Here’s why it’s important when you want to take out a home loan. What...

If you’ve paid down your home loan somewhat or your property has appreciated in value, you may be able to use your home’s equity to fund an investment property purchase. Knowing how to use your home equity can help you achieve financial goals, but it’s important to weigh the risks, like increased debt and changing...

Property prices are climbing to record highs, interest rates are on hold but could be dropping again soon, and buyer demand remains strong. We may be in the throes of winter, but the property market is anything but cool. In June, property prices continued their upward trend, rising 0.6% across the month. Experts say the growth can...

If you’ve been in the industry for a while, you’ve probably looked at a mortgage broker franchise and wondered, “Would it actually give me what I need to grow?” The brand name sounds appealing.  The support seems structured.  But behind the glossy pitch, you might be questioning how much freedom you’d really have, and how...

For Brokers Who Want Real Support, Not Just a Platform At Smartfinn Advisors, we work differently.  Partnered with a leading aggregator, we back experienced mortgage brokers with the tools, support, and freedom they need to grow, without losing control of their business.  Maintain your brand and stay in control, while we power your growth with...

You’ve worked hard to build your broking career.  You’re good at what you do. Your clients trust you. And you know deep down, you could run your own show. Becoming a self-employed mortgage broker means more freedom, more flexibility, and more control over your income.  But it also comes with a big question: How do...

As the end of financial year approaches, now is the time to take stock of your finances, including your home loan. Whether you own your home or an investment property, this is the ideal time to assess your financial position, review your loan structure, and make sure your current mortgage is still fit for purpose. ...

If you’re applying for a home loan, bank loans and gambling don’t always go hand in hand. Lenders will look at your income, expenses, and spending habits, including any signs of gambling, to assess your ability to repay your mortgage. Even low-level gambling can raise questions, and in some cases, it might affect your approval...

When it comes to taking out a home loan, all the options can be overwhelming. Should you go with a Big Four bank or a lender that’s less known? Is it best to choose a variable home loan or a fixed-rate loan in today’s lending environment? With so many questions to ponder, it’s little wonder...

Winter has arrived and with property prices heating up, it’s probably a good idea not to put your purchasing plans on ice. Last month’s cash rate cut by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) prompted property prices to increase to a record high in May. Experts expect housing values to continue rising throughout the year. To...

Tax time might not be everyone’s favourite season, but it it’s a great chance to tidy up your finances. If you own an investment property, it’s important to be aware of all of the tax deductions that could be available to you and plan smartly for the year ahead. Below is some general guidance, along...

Retirement often conjures up images of afternoons on a golf course or adventures in a motorhome, of growing your own vegetables or spending quality time with the grandkids. In order to have the retirement you’ve always dreamed of, it’s important to plan ahead. Here are some key considerations. When do you plan to retire? Deciding...

The federal election is done and dusted, with Labor achieving a landslide victory. So how did aspiring homeowners fare? Let’s take a look.

If you’re planning a winter property purchase, you’d be feeling a warm buzz after the Reserve Bank of Australia’s (RBA) latest cash rate decision. The RBA delivered the second cash rate cut for 2025 in May, bringing it down 0.25 percentage points to 3.85 per cent. Meanwhile, property prices across the nation edged higher in...

Following the 2025 Australian federal election, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's Labor government secured a second term with a significant majority, positioning itself to implement substantial housing reforms aimed at assisting first home buyers and addressing broader housing affordability challenges

If you’re planning to build your own home, a construction loan could help finance your project. Unlike standard home loans, construction loans provide funds progressively in stages as your new home is built. Here are a few of the key points you should consider. A quick guide to construction loans Construction loans differ significantly from...

Negative gearing is a popular investment strategy in Australia, but it’s also a term that often comes up in the media, particularly when there’s an election looming, like right now. Let’s take a look at what it means, what capital gains tax (CGT) is and why you need to know about these terms if you...

It’s Federal Budget time, so let’s cut to the chase. What’s in it for aspiring homeowners looking to purchase a property in 2025? Here are some of the key takeaways that could affect you. Purchasing property Help to Buy scheme Labor plans to boost its Help to Buy scheme by increasing income and property price...

In a fast-moving property market, timing is everything. You may find your dream home before selling your current one, but without the right financial solution, you could miss out. That’s where a bridging loan can help. Thinking about buying a home in 2025? The property market is evolving, bringing both opportunities and challenges for buyers....

The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) kept the cash rate on hold at its latest meeting, but it looks highly likely the RBA’s next move will be a cash rate cut after President Donald Trump’s sweeping tariffs on US imports sent shock waves through global markets. Meanwhile, the federal election has been called for 3 May and...

Renovating can be a great way to add value to your property, improve your living space, or boost your rental return. But before you start knocking down walls, there are a few key things to consider. A renovation can quickly turn from a smart investment into a financial headache if you don’t plan properly. Here’s...

The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has cut the cash rate and interest rates have come down. So, is now a good time to buy property? The answer depends on your unique circumstances and goals. But generally speaking, it’s always best to get a leg up on the property ladder sooner rather than later. Here...

Managing your home loan well can give you more flexibility and help you pay off your mortgage sooner. A redraw facility could be one way to reduce interest costs while still having access to extra funds when you need them. Here’s what you need to know. What is a redraw facility? A redraw facility lets...

Millions of borrowers with a variable home loan have seen their interest rates drop in recent weeks after the Reserve Bank of Australia’s cash rate cut. The announcement was welcome news for those struggling with cost-of-living pressures. For someone with a $600,000 mortgage and 25 years left on their loan, the cash rate cut meant...

When purchasing a property, particularly an apartment, townhouse, or unit, it’s important to consider the ongoing costs beyond your mortgage repayments. One of these key expenses is strata fees, which help cover the maintenance and management of shared spaces within the complex. If you’re planning to buy a property under a strata scheme, understanding these fees...

The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has cut the cash rate, and it seems likely there will be more cuts to come in 2025. All Big Four banks are anticipating at least two cuts this year and some say there may be up to five cash rate reductions. So, should borrowers opt for a variable home loan...

In recent months, we’ve seen a definite shift in the property market. It’s left one question on many aspiring property owners’ lips: Has the property market peaked? If you’re looking to make the most of falling interest rates and buy a home or an investment property in 2025, it’s important to be up to speed...

It was the news homeowners across the nation had been waiting to hear. The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has cut the cash rate. The majority of new home loans in Australia in 2024 are variable – estimated at 98 per cent – while only 2 per cent are fixed, so there are bound to be a...

Home equity is the portion of your property that you truly own. It’s calculated by the difference between your home’s market value and what you still owe on your mortgage. As you pay down your home loan or as your property’s value increases, your equity grows. For many homeowners, equity is one of their most...

When it comes to securing a home loan, a mortgage broker can be an invaluable partner. Acting as a bridge between borrowers and lenders, mortgage brokers simplify the process of finding and applying for a loan that aligns with your financial goals. Whether you are purchasing your first home, refinancing an existing loan, or investing...

As the new year begins and the daily grind resumes, many Australians are dreaming of swapping city life for the charm of the coast. What was once primarily about lifestyle is now a practical choice for many. But before packing your bags for the coast, here are key factors to consider: 1. Is coastal living...

2025 is shaping up to be a year of opportunities in the property market. With predictions of interest rate cuts coming this year, it’s an exciting time whether you’re considering buying a new home, refinancing, or exploring investment options. As your mortgage broker, we are here to help you make confident decisions in this evolving...

It’s a new year, and for aspiring homeowners, that means it’s time to focus on getting pre-approved and ready to purchase. Property prices came down nationally for the first time in almost two years in December, yet there is a lot of price divergence among Australia’s capital cities. The median property value in Sydney is currently sitting at $1,191,955,...

6 Steps to Be a Mortgage Broker in Australia Becoming a mortgage broker in Australia requires a structured process to ensure you meet all legal, educational, and professional requirements. The time it takes to begin writing loans depends on how many prerequisite steps you’ve already completed. Below is a streamlined guide to starting your career....

The new year is all about fresh starts. With 2025 fast approaching, it’s the perfect time to reflect on your finances and take steps to set yourself up for success. The holiday season may bring extra expenses, but it’s also an opportunity to start building better financial habits for the year ahead. Here’s how to...

Can you believe the year is almost over? With the end of 2024 fast approaching, it’s time to take a look at the highlights reel of what happened in the property world this year and what’s in store for 2025. Reflecting on 2024 Interest rates remained flat The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) kept the cash rate...

In a fast-moving property market, timing is everything. You may find your dream home before selling your current one, but without the right financial solution, you could miss out. That’s where a bridging loan can help. A bridging loan allows you to buy your next home before selling your current property, giving you the financial flexibility...

Summer has arrived, and while the mercury continues to rise across the nation, the property market is cooling. According to CoreLogic data, property prices increased 0.1% in November – the weakest Australia-wide result since January 2023. Nationally, prices grew 5.5% over the year. The median value of a house is now $812,933. For savvy investors or aspiring homeowners,...

Buying a second home can be an exciting milestone, whether you’re looking for an investment property, a holiday retreat or a home for a family member. One of the most common ways to fund the purchase is by leveraging the equity in your current property. Home equity is the portion of your property that you...

Amid cost-of-living pressures and mortgage repayment stress, there has been some good news for homeowners. Property prices have continued to rise for months on end across the nation. In October, data from CoreLogic showed property values increased by 0.3% nationally. It was the 21st consecutive month of price growth across the country. Recently, Australia’s property market also...

Did you know that seven out of 10 borrowers use a mortgage broker? During the June 2024 quarter, mortgage brokers wrote 73.7% of all new home loans in Australia – the second highest result on record. When it comes to refinancing, many borrowers choose to use a mortgage broker for peace of mind that switching is...

Settlement day marks the long-awaited moment when you become the legal owner of your new home, and while it’s thrilling, it can also bring a few last-minute challenges. With the right preparation, though, you can help ensure a smooth handover and avoid surprises. Here’s your guide to navigating potential settlement pitfalls and making your big...

The busy spring selling season has seen many aspiring homeowners out and about looking for the perfect property to snap up. Property prices continue to rise (up 0.3% nationally in October), but recently we’ve seen price growth slowing and the market cooling. If you’re planning to be in a new home before the new year,...

When you rent out your investment property, you can choose to manage the property yourself or get a professional property manager to do the hard yards for you.

When you’re new to buying property, choosing a home loan can be overwhelming. There are dozens of different lenders out there all offering different types of mortgages. So, which is right for you?

Homeowners have been waiting with bated breath to see when the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) will cut the cash rate. It’s been on hold at 4.35% since November 2023.

As housing supply ramps up in spring, we’ve seen property values inch higher nationally, but growth has slowed.

Spring is here and that means vendors will be sprucing up their gardens and making sure their properties present beautifully for the busy spring selling season. This spring, we’re likely to see varied conditions across Australia’s capital cities.

When you’ve been scrolling through marketing photos of a property and you finally set foot in it at an inspection, it can be easy to get swept up in the moment. Home stylists can be very clever at making you fall in love with a property.

Spring has arrived, bringing a renewed sense of excitement in the property market. Whether you’re an agent looking to sell a few properties, a vendor wanting to offload a property, or a buyer hoping to snap up a bargain and start a new chapter in a new home, there’s no doubt there’s a buzz in the air.

Applying for a home loan is both exciting and stressful. When you are successful, there’s nothing like receiving that green light from a lender to say you’re on the home run to securing your dream home.

Stay informed with our August newsletter! Get the latest insights on finance, investments, and market updates. Read now for expert advice and trends!

Explore rentvesting as an option for first-time buyers. Learn how it works, its benefits, and if it’s the right strategy for you. Read our expert insights now!

Wondering if it's the right time to refinance? Get expert insights on market conditions, benefits, and factors to consider before refinancing. Read now!

Deciding between paying down your home loan or investing? Discover the pros and cons of each option to make the best financial decision. Read our guide now!

Stay informed with our July newsletter! Get the latest insights on finance, investments, and market trends. Read now for expert tips and updates!

Learn about guarantor loans and how they work! Discover benefits, risks, and key details to make informed financial decisions. Read our comprehensive guide now!

Discover 5 key things to look for in an investment property. Learn how to choose wisely and maximise your returns with our expert tips. Read more now!

Learn to spot and avoid financial scams! Our guide highlights common scams, warning signs, and tips to protect your money. Stay safe and informed. Read now!

Stay updated with our June newsletter! Get the latest insights on finance, investments, and industry trends. Read now for expert tips and updates!

Thinking about refinancing? Learn key considerations and tips to make informed decisions before refinancing your mortgage. Read our guide now!

Debating between buying an apartment or a house as an investment? Discover the pros and cons of each to make an informed decision. Read our expert analysis!

Explore budget initiatives designed to help aspiring homeowners achieve their dreams.

To get your property dream on track, chat to us about getting your finance pre-approved today.

If you’re interested in joining the tiny home movement, here’s a few things you need to consider before buying.

So, which renovations should you consider when looking to generate a return on investment? Here’s some inspiration.

If you’re a property investor, it’s important to be across all of the tax deductions that could be available to you. Here are some tips.

Continue the great start to the year and stay informed with all the latest news in finance, investments and industry trends.

Continue the great start to the year and stay informed with all the latest news in finance, investments and industry trends.

Continue the great start to the year and stay informed with all the latest news in finance, investments and industry trends.

Continue the great start to the year and stay informed with all the latest news in finance, investments and industry trends.

Continue the great start to the year and stay informed with all the latest news in finance, investments and industry trends.

Continue the great start to the year and stay informed with all the latest news in finance, investments and industry trends.

Continue the great start to the year and stay informed with all the latest news in finance, investments and industry trends.

Continue the great start to the year and stay informed with all the latest news in finance, investments and industry trends.

Continue the great start to the year and stay informed with all the latest news in finance, investments and industry trends.

Avoid common mistakes as a first home buyer! Learn tips and tricks from Smartfinn Advisors to navigate your home buying journey successfully.

Explore the latest on the refinance boom. Stay informed about mortgage trends and financial updates. Dive in now!

Demystify property investment jargon! Smartfinn Advisers breaks down complex terms to help investors. Gain clarity and make informed decisions.

A new year has begun! Do you have property goals in 2024? Read up on the latest information you need to know on interest rates and more for this year here.

Thinking about purchasing your own home this year? Here are four steps that you can take now to put you on the path to buying your future home. Read here.

Have you heard about refinancing? With a mortgage broken, we can make the process easier. We've listed the steps involved in the refinancing process here.

Interested in property investing? Here are the 5 rules that successful property owners follow. Click here if you're looking to invest this year.

The last month of the year is here! If a summer property purchase is on your wish list this Christmas, speak to us about your finance options.

Planning to purchase a property in the near future? We've created a home loan application checklist to optimise your chances of approval. Find it here.

What a year 2023 was for the property world! Join us as we recap the highlights of the last year and what we predict will happen in 2024.

Did you know that the Christmas holiday season is a fantastic time to go house hunting? Here's why you should take advantage of the holiday season.

Are you looking to make a home purchase in the near future? Here is what you need to know about the housing market and related news this month.

Enjoy a camping getaway this summer! Here are our top camping destinations across Australia. Need a caravan first? Chat with us to discuss your finances.

Don't move - renovate. A renovation can transform your property entirely without the hassle of moving. If you need to finance your renovation, click here.

Is your settlement day approaching? We've listed 5 tips to take the stress out of settlement day. Click here for everything you need to know.

Home value movements and interest rate news. If you're currently in the market or thinking of buying a home, here is your latest update for October.

The hot question in the property market is: when will interest rates start to fall in Australia? Click here to see what the experts are predicting.

For a first-time home buyer, the home loan process can be confusing. If you’re new to buying property, here’s how the home loan application process works.

Investing in property can be exciting yet daunting. Here’s a guide to help you avoid four common mistakes when buying your first investment property.

Spring has sprung! An exciting time for property owners looking to get into the market and vendors eager to make a sale. Click here to learn more.

2023 has been a historic year for the RBA and the cash rate. As the RBA tries to curb consumer spending, there are risks for borrowers. Read more here.

Managing a mortgage can be challenging. If you want to try and pay off your home loan sooner, here are 7 practical tips that will help boost your savings.

Spring typically sees an uptick in property sales and this trend looks set to continue in 2023. Click here to see how you can negotiate a spring bargain.

With a lot of movement in interest rates, refinancing is on many people's radars. You may wonder how much it costs to refinance. Click here to learn more.

Spring is nearly here! If you're looking to buy this upcoming spring, here is what you should know about this time of the year in the property world.

Don't let a small budget hold you back from property investment! There are several different ways you can obtain a property. Click here to see how.

Looking to get pre-approval? Did you know that there are three easy steps you can do to get your home loan pre-approval? Discover the three steps here.

Are you thinking about refinancing? Here is what you need to know and how our mortgage brokers can assist you in deciding which home loan is right for you.

It is important to have the right team of professionals supporting you when investing to get the most out of your investment. Click here to learn more.

July has brought positive news for homeowners with the RBA holding the cash rate. Catch this month's news on interest and more by clicking here.

Have you ever wondered how lenders decide whether to grant you that coveted home loan? We explain what a credit report is and how it relates to loans.

Settlement day can be both exciting and stressful. If you’re planning a property purchase and are new to how settlement works, here’s a rundown.

Are you stuck in an expensive home loan and feeling trapped? There may be a way out! Here is how Smartfinn Advisors can help your mortgage prison.

Australia’s winter housing outlook is improving, with rising property prices and stronger market conditions. Here's a summary of what is going on in June.

To help you navigate the world of tax deductions, we’ve put together a pre-tax time checklist for property investors. Click here to see our list.

The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) is facing a major overhaul. What does it mean for interest rates and for Australian mortgage holders? Learn more here.

Do you have a HECS-HELP debt? If you're in the market to buy a property, click here to see how this year’s higher indexation could affect you.

Despite the looming winter season, it’s a time to celebrate the sizzling rental property market for many investors. Learn more about the market here.

Why use a mortgage broker to refinance? With many benefits, using a mortgage broker to refinance your home loan can be a game changer. Learn more here.

Buying sight unseen can be risky but if prepared, it can be a great move. Here's what you need to do when purchasing property without viewing it in person.

Have you recently purchased an investment property? Here is how you can manage your own investment property if you don't want to hire a property manager.

Big news for homeowners in April with the RBA keeping the cash rate on hold. Learn more about the property market and what's happening this month.

This month the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) put up interest rates again, but is a cash rate pause on the horizon? Read more about this month here.

Are you buying a property? There are several different parties involved. One important role is a conveyancer. Here is why you need conveyancing services.

Planning to refinance this year? You should be aware of a few pitfalls when doing your research. Here are six mistakes to avoid when refinancing.

Is 2023 the year you buy your first investment property? Here is why right now might be the best time for you to buy an investment property.

A lot has changed in the past year, especially when it comes to the economy. Interest rates and the cost of living are up, with more rate hikes forecast for 2023 as inflation remains stubbornly high.

A lot has changed in the past year, especially when it comes to the economy. Interest rates and the cost of living are up, with more rate hikes forecast for 2023 as inflation remains stubbornly high.

A lot has changed in the past year, especially when it comes to the economy. Interest rates and the cost of living are up, with more rate hikes forecast for 2023 as inflation remains stubbornly high.

A lot has changed in the past year, especially when it comes to the economy. Interest rates and the cost of living are up, with more rate hikes forecast for 2023 as inflation remains stubbornly high.

A lot has changed in the past year, especially when it comes to the economy. Interest rates and the cost of living are up, with more rate hikes forecast for 2023 as inflation remains stubbornly high.

When you find a property you want to purchase, there are a lot of things to consider – from building inspections and pest reports to securing a loan.

A small property can make a great investment – if you choose the right one. If rising interest rates are impacting your borrowing power, then an apartment or unit could potentially be the most viable investment option.

Happy New Year! We hope you had a relaxing and memorable holiday season spent with family and friends.

If you plan to get into the property market in 2023, there are a few things you can do to help you reach your home ownership goals.

The start of a new year is the perfect time to reflect on the past 12 months, reassess priorities and set new goals. If you’re looking to create some better financial habits in 2023, here’s some techniques to help you can get in control of your money.

The festive season is a time for giving. But unfortunately, it’s also the time of year when generous shoppers are targeted by scammers.

The holiday season is here, and so is another rate rise. The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) increased the cash rate to 3.1 per cent as inflation shows signs of slowing in October.

Experts are warning Australians to brace for more interest rate pain in the year ahead.

In recent years, many people have moved out of cities to regional areas looking for a quieter and more relaxing lifestyle. Many thought this trend would end now that COVID lockdowns appear a thing of the past, but a new report by buyers’ agency, Hotspotting says otherwise.

The Great Australian Dream of home ownership is still alive, but it’s evolving.

Household budgets are feeling the pinch of a seventh successive rate rise. The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) increased the cash rate to 2.85 per cent this month, prompting some lenders to increase their variable rates by 0.25 percentage points.

The search for your dream property can be both exciting and stressful. From the inspections that kick everything off to putting in your offer and having it accepted, these are all stepping stones on the journey towards ownership.

It’s no secret that paying off your home loan sooner can save you plenty. However, with cost-of-living pressures and rising interest rates, it can be hard to find extra cash.

The spring sales season is here, but what do rising interest rates mean for this traditionally busy period?

Household budgets are feeling the pinch of yet another rate rise. The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) increased the cash rate to 2.6 per cent, prompting some lenders to increase their variable rates by 0.25 percentage points.

The goal of renovating for profit is to minimise expenditure and maximise return. Focus on renovations that will increase your property’s value, whilst not costing you the earth.

Building your own home can be one of life’s most rewarding milestones. Not only does a new build have the potential to save you money, but it also gives you the opportunity to design the home you’ve always wanted with all the latest fixtures and fittings.

Are you looking at becoming a property investor? Purchasing an investment apartment is often a great place to start.

Spring is here and the mercury isn’t the only thing rising. Borrowers are under more pressure with interest rates on the move again.

If you are buying your first home, getting your head around home loan terminology can be tricky.

Interest rates have been going up in recent months. But on the flip side, property prices have been falling in many markets.

If you’re currently playing the waiting game wondering what will happen when your fixed rate term ends, we understand what a stressful time it might be.

Another month, another cash rate rise. The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) increased the cash rate to a six-year high of 1.85 per cent in August, prompting some lenders to increase their variable rates by 0.5 percentage points.

One of the things lenders take into consideration when assessing your ability to repay a loan is your credit report.

If you’ve never bought property before, you may not understand what stamp duty is. In a nutshell, stamp duty is a tax. It’s not very sexy, but it’s one of those things that goes hand in hand with purchasing a property.

In the wake of three consecutive cash rate rises, many aspiring homeowners and current mortgage holders have been left feeling uncertain.

For the third month in a row, the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) increased the cash rate in July to 1.35 per cent.

With millions of Australian homeowners likely to be slugged with higher mortgage repayments due to the cash rate hikes, there’s one question on everyone’s lips.

The golden rule in real estate is “location, location, location”, but how do you know a suburb is right for you when you find it?

In May, Labor was voted in at the Federal Election. If you’re an aspiring homeowner, the change of Government could mean new opportunities to help get you into your own home sooner rather than later.

In what was the biggest one-off rate hike in 22 years, this month the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) increased the cash rate to 0.85 per cent in order to curb skyrocketing inflation.

News of the Reserve Bank of Australia’s (RBA) decision to increase the official cash rate has left many homeowners feeling uncertain and worried. For some, it’s the first time they’ve experienced a cash rate rise.

If you’re like most property investors, trawling through boxes of receipts to tally up your allowable deductions is probably not your idea of fun. So, how can you make tax time a little easier?

Learning how to invest in property like a pro takes time, and if you’re new to the game, it’s easy to make rookie errors. Here are 4 common mistakes to avoid when buying your first investment property.

How do you know how much to pay for a property? As a buyer, it can be tricky.

As we have seen with the recent east coast floods, unforeseen disasters can strike at any time.

With auction clearance rates soaring above 80% in many markets in recent weeks, the competition amongst buyers for properties is often fierce.

Always dreamed of having a successful side hustle? Have you considered joining the thousands of Aussies who are listing their properties on Airbnb and pulling in extra coin?

Which home loan is right for you? How can you tell when there are so many different lenders, loan types and features available?

Redraw facilities and offset accounts work in a similar way – they both effectively allow you to reduce the balance of your home loan, which reduces the amount of interest you pay.

At Smartfinn Advisors, we’re in it for the long haul. Our goal is to support you with all your big finance decisions, at every stage of your life.

Knowing how to use your equity effectively and making it work for you could be an invaluable wealth-building tool. Let’s look at what equity is, how it grows and how you can access it.

When it comes to your home loan, making sure you’re getting the most competitive deal is important. Even a small difference in your interest rate can mean thousands of dollars over the long run.

Property investment could be a great way to build your wealth and achieve your long-term financial goals. Here are some tips to help you work towards building your property portfolio.

Renovating your property is a great way to potentially drive up its value. If it’s an investment property, you may also secure a better rental return.

If you’re buying property for the first time, you may be a little confused about which professionals you’ll need on your team.

If your finances have taken a pounding of late, here are some tips to help get you back on track.

Australians love investing in property, and it’s no wonder why. Property investment helps you grow your wealth through capital growth and provides additional income via rental returns.

Buying off the plan could be a good way for some people to get into the market. Here’s what you should know when considering buying off the plan.

With a home loan, clients tend to just ‘set and forget’. But it’s sensible to review your home loan every two to three years.

Settlement day. It’s that magical moment a property finally becomes yours. Here’s what you need to do to ensure your settlement day is stress-free. First, let’s cover a few basics.

With international travel off the cards, many people are choosing to holiday domestically. If you have the budget for it, a great way to do that is by purchasing your own holiday home. So, what should you be aware of before investing in a holiday home? Here are some tips.

Property investment can offer all sorts of benefits – additional income, capital growth, tax deductions, and the list goes on. If you’re considering an investment property purchase, we’ve put together a simple guide to help you get started. Let’s dive in.

The pandemic has drastically changed the way we live and work. For some, there may have been big changes to their financial situation. Here are a few reasons why now is a good time to review your home loan.

Creating a spark with prospective buyers could not only help you to achieve a quick sale, it could also help you secure a better price. And if you can attract multiple suitors, it may even start a bidding war at auction that really benefits your hip pocket. Here are our top tips for impressing prospective buyers.

Can you buy an investment property on a small budget? The simple answer is ‘absolutely’!

The typically busy Spring sales season is upon us, so what does it mean with much of the country in lockdown?

Interest rates remain at a record low currently, and the property market is expected to heat up as we enter spring despite the economic challenges due to the pandemic.

Whether you’re upsizing, downsizing or just moving to a house in a new location, your situation has probably changed since you last bought.

When you’re on a budget, every dollar counts. Let’s see what costs you will need to factor in when you buy a house.