If you’re new to buying property, you’ll want to understand your credit report and how it may impact your home loan application.

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.

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 support.

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 when deciding whether or not to refinance. The latest inflation data was promising In positive news, the consumer price index (CPI) rose by 2.1 per cent over the 12 months to the June quarter , while the trimmed mean annual inflation was 2.7 per cent to the June quarter. This is the figure the RBA pays close attention to when deciding what to do with the cash rate. With trimmed mean inflation now at its lowest since December 2021 and well within the RBA’s target band of 2-3 per cent. There is a strong case for further cash rate cuts if inflation and economic growth continue on their current path. The RBA’s latest Statement on Monetary Policy offered fresh insights into the outlook. Despite markets expecting lower rates since May, the RBA’s inflation forecast remains steady, with the trimmed mean sitting at 2.6 per cent for the next two years. Financial markets are currently pricing in a cash rate low of 2.9 per cent by December 2026 before edging back up to 3.1 per cent in 2027. If the RBA’s projections are correct, they suggest the economy can operate with a cash rate around 3 per cent and inflation will remain within their target band. Lender offers are getting sharper Given the three rate cuts so far this year, there’s a lot of competition amongst lenders to get mortgage holders through the doors. By refinancing, you may access an attractive cash back offer that helps you get ahead with your goals or secure a more competitive home loan rate. Refinancing and setting you up with a home loan with interest-saving features like a redraw facility or offset account could also help you get ahead financially. So, should I refinance now or wait it out? It’s hard to know exactly how soon the RBA will cut the cash rate again. While refinancing will depend largely on your individual situation and goals, there are mounting reasons why refinancing should be on your radar. At the very least, now is a good time to review your home loan to make sure it still measures up, particularly if you fall under any of the following categories. You’ve been with the same lender for a long time If your current home loan was locked in at the cycle’s peak, you may be paying more than is necessary on your mortgage. If you’ve had the same home loan for several years, chances are you could be getting a more suitable offer with another lender, so it’s worth exploring your options and shopping around. Your situation has changed Have your financial circumstances changed since you took out your original home loan? If so, all the more reason to consider refinancing to a home loan that marries with your current financial situation and long-term objectives. Your debt is feeling overwhelming If you’re juggling multiple debts at once, such as a personal loan and credit card debt, it may be worthwhile considering debt consolidation. With debt consolidation, you essentially roll all your debts into your home loan. It means you only have to make one repayment, making it easier to manage your debt. It’s important to remember that you may end up paying more interest over the life of the loan if you go down this road, so speak to us and we’ll crunch the numbers for you. You want to access your equity Want to make a big-ticket purchase, like buying an investment property or doing a home renovation? Refinancing to access your equity could help you achieve these kinds of goals. Like to know more? If you’re considering refinancing, reach out to us for a home loan health check. We can help you work through all the options out there and find you a home loan to suit your specific circumstances and goals. We’ll also explain any costs involved and help you weigh up whether it’s worth refinancing. Get in touch today.

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. 

With today’s cost-of-living pressures, winter can be a challenging time financially for households, especially with soaring electricity and gas bills.

If you’re looking to buy a property, it’s important to remember that your gambling habits could be taken into account when you apply for a home loan. Your lender will look at any track record of gambling when assessing your financial situation and ability to repay the mortgage. Not only could gambling jeopardise your chances of being approved for a loan, but it could also impact your ability to refinance down the track. Understanding the process When you apply for a home loan, your lender will do an affordability assessment. As part of this, they’ll assess your income (from all sources) against your outgoings (your regular expenses). They’ll also likely check your credit score. If a lender sees evidence of regular gambling transactions as part of your expenses, it may be a red flag. They’ll look at how much money you’re gambling, how frequently you’re betting and what type of gambling you’re participating in. If it’s a small amount you’re gambling relatively infrequently for leisure, it probably won’t raise any alarm bells with the lender. The occasional Powerball ticket, for example, will be considered harmless. However, if it’s an ongoing habit that’s getting out of control, it could limit your ability to secure finance. How to turn things around There are steps you can take to try to maximise your chances of getting approved for a home loan if you do have a history of gambling. Domino your debts: Paying off your debts – whether it be credit card debt, car loan or personal loans – is a good place to start, as it shows you are able to manage your finances effectively. Budget and save: A strong track record of saving will go down well with lenders. Keep putting money aside regularly and grow your savings nest egg. Boost your credit score: You can access your credit score and credit report for free every few months. If you notice any errors in the report, contact the credit provider. The government’s moneysmart website offers tips on how to improve your credit score, such as lowering your credit card limit, paying your utility bills on time and keeping on top of credit card repayments. Stop gambling: If you think your gambling may jeopardise your home loan application, try to reduce or quit gambling. Seeking help There are many resources available to help you tackle a gambling addiction. GambleAware offers tools and support for those who are looking to stop gambling. The site includes a gambling assessment to see how the habit may be impacting your life, as well as research and links to gambling support groups. You can also get immediate support from Gambling Help Online on 1800 858 858. It’s free and confidential. Other options can be found on the Health Direct website . Like to talk through your finance options? If you’d like to know more about how your gambling habit may affect your home loan application, we’re here to answer your questions. Talk to us confidentially about your financial situation and we’ll help you work towards getting the finance you need.

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.

The Labor party pulled off a landslide victory in the recent federal election. So, what does this mean from a housing perspective?

End of financial year tax tips for investors 

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 plan to invest in property.