Managing multiple loans can be difficult – and stressful. One way to simplify your financial situation and save yourself time, effort and money is to centralise your debt. But it’s not always the right answer, so here’s what to consider before you consolidate. When you borrow money, the most important thing is being able to…
Taking a short-term break from paying off your mortgage isn’t a new idea, but as the bite of the COVID-19 pandemic grips harder and harder, more Australians are applying to do so. With the RBA’s cash rate held at a record low of 0.25%, what are the implications of pushing pause on your repayments? In…
Building a new home – or making big changes to the place you live – is a goal for many. But it can be a more complicated process and a very different experience to buying an existing property. And it can require a specific type of financing – a construction loan. Maybe you already know…
If you are concerned about servicing your loan, reach out to Own Home Loans for help. As Australians everywhere take a close look at their financial circumstances, your mortgage broker stands ready to lend a helping hand. Whether experiencing financial hardship through job loss, a reduction in work hours, or business disruption, an increasing number…
As people become more aware about sustainable living, becoming sustainable goes to all facets of life. Questioning the ethical standards of their lending institutions is becoming more commonplace by the day. It is important to understand what ethical lenders are and whether they align with one’s values and priorities. An ethical lender is concerned with…
Crunch time has come for property investors with June 30 fast approaching. If you are a property investor, you will know what a hectic time end of financial year (EOFY) can be. However, with a little forward planning, you will be well on your way to a smooth tax lodgment come EOFY. Read on for…
New government regulations mean interest-only loans are on the decline. Given the changes, it may be time to reconsider your own loan structure. Rewind a few years and many people would have confidently assured you that an interest-only loan – a home loan on which you only have to make interest payments for a set…
Confused about the ins and outs of mortgage refinancing? There are two key considerations when you’re looking at taking the step – why and how. Here, we examine both. A home loan is generally a long-term proposition, but in some situations it can be suitable to refinance your mortgage. Refinancing involves taking out a new…
The Australian residential housing market has been highly variable this year, and we’ve seen some highlights as well as lowlights. We look ahead at what’s expected for the remainder of 2018 and beyond. It’s been a tale of mixed fortunes in the nation’s housing market over the past 12 months. There’s been a downward slide…
If you want to modernise your kitchen but you’re concerned about the cost, don’t be dismayed. There are many ways to get a new kitchen without destroying your bank balance. Downgrade to upgrade Saving money doesn’t mean you have to compromise on everything in your new kitchen. Select a few fittings or features that you…
It’s important to look after the tenants in your investment property – it encourages them to stay long term and take care of your property. So how can you keep your tenants happy? By treating your property like a business and your tenants like valued customers. Treat the tenant as a customer The rental market…
Buying a property isn’t always a straightforward process, and one area that can cause confusion is the question of who is responsible for insuring it between the signing of the contract and settlement. There are differences in regulations between states, but the basics are as follows. First, it’s important to clarify whether the property is…