by Smart Select Home Loans | Dec 11, 2024 | Latest
As we head towards the end of 2024, let’s take a look at how property markets performed over the last year – and discover what the experts say may lie in store for home prices in 2025. 2024 has been a year of change, with property values and market conditions shifting...
by Smart Select Home Loans | Dec 4, 2024 | Latest
The coming weeks will see millions of Aussies enjoy a well-earned getaway, and for some, a memorable holiday will inspire plans to buy a holiday home. But is it a good idea? And can a weekender still stack up financially? We explain what to consider plus tips to fund...
by Smart Select Home Loans | Nov 28, 2024 | Latest
There are few better ways to beat the summer heat than floating in your very own pool. With a range of price points to choose from, a pool can be affordable, but will it add value to your property? And how will you pay for your backyard oasis? Fun fact: more...
by Smart Select Home Loans | Nov 21, 2024 | Latest
You’ve seen the perfect piece of land but you’re not quite ready to build. No problem – a land loan can be a handy finance solution. However, it can work a bit differently from a regular home loan. Here’s what you need to know. Not everyone wants to buy an established...
by Smart Select Home Loans | Nov 14, 2024 | Latest
Your home is possibly the most valuable asset you will ever own. So it’s worth taking precautions to help ensure you buy a place that has a clean bill of health, free from budget-busting hidden nasties. Even the most attractive homes can hide unwanted surprises, and...
by Smart Select Home Loans | Nov 6, 2024 | Latest
With just one RBA rate decision left for 2024, homeowners may be holding onto hopes of a summer cut. We look at when rates may start falling – and how you could possibly give yourself a rate cut before Christmas. “Are we there yet?” It’s the catch cry of kids on long...
by Smart Select Home Loans | Oct 31, 2024 | Latest
Saving for a 20% house deposit is like house training a wilful Labrador. It requires plenty of patience and persistence. Not your thing? You could take out lenders mortgage insurance (LMI). But how much extra does that cost? And can you avoid paying for it? (for the...
by Smart Select Home Loans | Oct 23, 2024 | Latest
It’s the great Australian dream for many: giving the 9-to-5 grind the flick and running your own show. But when it comes to taking out a home loan, being your own boss can dish up some unexpected hammer blows. Rightly or wrongly, lenders tend to see self-employed...
by Smart Select Home Loans | Oct 16, 2024 | Latest
Negative gearing is in the headlines again. But what is it all about, and could it affect you? We explain how negative gearing works, why it’s so popular among investors, and why it’s attracting fresh attention. Australians love property. So much so that more than...
by Smart Select Home Loans | Oct 9, 2024 | Latest
Planning to buy your first home? It takes (on average) about five to six years to save a deposit at present. But who’s got the patience to save for six years? Today we’ll look at four ways you could fast-track home ownership. They say patience is a virtue. But the...