Mozo home loan news and advice

Thousands of home loan customers could switch

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 13:00:00 GMT

Thousands of property owners across Australia could be looking to compare home loan rates, as the country's major banks are expected to hike interest rates. Chief executive at the Australian Bankers Association Steve Munchenberg told News Limited that speculation over rate increases could result in more than 30 per cent of mortgage holders looking to switch their provider in 2012. This comes after the Reserve Bank of Australia surprised everyone by keeping the standard rate at 4.25 per cent and some experts are anticipating ANZ to be the first to boost its rates. Mr Munchenberg urged worried Aussies to speak to their bank before weighing up their options. "Last year about one in three people switched, and that was the top end of the historical range. And this year could be even higher," he was quoted as saying. Earlier this week, Australian treasurer Wayne Swan warned the nation's major lenders that they risk alienating their customers if they start to frivolously bump up interest rates.

First time buyers could be hit by lending drought

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 13:00:00 GMT

Australians looking to get onto the property ladder could be hit by a drought in mortgage finance, according to a new report from UBS Securities.

Lenders losing money on new mortgages

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 13:00:00 GMT

Mortgage lenders have been losing money on new home loans for first-time buyers, according to new figures from Bell Potter Securities.

NAB starts home loan pricing war

Sun, 05 Feb 2012 13:00:00 GMT

The National Australia Bank (NAB) has started a home loan price war by guaranteeing that its variable rate mortgages will offer better repayment terms than its four biggest rivals.

Government considers new equity release scheme

Sun, 05 Feb 2012 13:00:00 GMT

The Australian government is considering a new reverse mortgage scheme that would allow elderly Australians to pay for their care without getting rid of their family home.

Building approval rates decline in December

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 13:00:00 GMT

House hunters looking to secure a home loan in Australia have seen the number of residential building projects being approved decline.

New home sales fall in December, figures show

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 13:00:00 GMT

The uptake of home loans across Australia fell away in December 2011, new figures have confirmed.

House prices fall in major cities, figures show

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:00:00 GMT

House hunters who are looking to secure a home loan before buying a property in a major city have seen the average value of dwellings fall.

Supply outweighs demand in rental market

Sun, 29 Jan 2012 13:00:00 GMT

Home loan customers who are looking to make some easy cash may be considering renting out a room in their property, after it was revealed that the demand for rented accommodation is extremely high.

Home loan customers call for planning changes

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 13:00:00 GMT

Aussie home loan customers feel that independent experts should have the final say on new housing developments in New South Wales (NSW), rather than council members.

Melbourne 'has a growing surplus of properties'

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 13:00:00 GMT

People looking for home loans or rented accommodation in Melbourne could see property prices fall dramatically, as there is a surplus of housing in the city. According to research conducted by SQM, the metropolis has the highest vacancy rates within the rental sector of any state capital across the country, the Herald Sun reports. Indeed, there are now 16,000 properties that are empty, which leaders at the research organisation believe is worrying. Vacancy rates in the Victorian city grew by one per cent in the past month and rental costs across the area are likely to fall as a result. The problem, SQM managing director Louis Christopher added, could be made worse by further building projects that are nearing completion. "It's a concern because there's still a lot of work in progress in Melbourne on apartment blocks yet to be completed," he was quoted as saying. The recent Demographia International Housing Affordability Survey indicated that Australian property is among the most expensive in the world, with only houses in Hong Kong costing more.

Banks urged to boost capital to cover home loans

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 13:00:00 GMT

Australia's major banks have been urged to boost their capital stocks in case the property industry crashes. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has conducted a stress test on the country's major lenders and has concluded that a downturn in the market could be disastrous for home loan providers. In the event of another global economic crisis, the residential mortgage market would be left exposed as things stand, as cash reserves are not currently in place, the IMF report noted. ANZ, Westpac, Commonwealth Bank and National Australia Bank were targeted during the stress test, as these four institutions hold around 80 per cent of the entire country's mortgages. "Combining residential mortgage shocks with corporate losses expected at the peak of the global financial crisis would put more pressure on Australian banks' capital," the report stated. The Daily Telegraph recently reported that the Australian government would welcome the entrance of Japanese lenders into the home loan market in order to boost competition in the sector, as long as the firms met strict trading standards.

Australian property 'among the most expensive in the world'

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 13:00:00 GMT

House hunters who are looking for an affordable home loan in Australia have learned that properties in the country are among the most expensive in the entire world.

Japanese firms could give Aussies more choice on home loans

Sun, 22 Jan 2012 13:00:00 GMT

Aussies who are looking to compare home loans could have more options at their disposal if Japanese lenders enter the market.

House prices to fall by as much as 60 per cent, US expert says

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 13:00:00 GMT

Aussie home loan customers could see house prices fall by as much as 60 per cent in the next five years, according to a leading US-based real estate expert.

Home loan customers see house prices fall away

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 13:00:00 GMT

Some Aussie home loan customers have seen the value of their properties fall away in the past year. According to new statistics released by RP Data, one in 20 households across the country are living in a building that is worth less than it was when they originally bought it, the Herald Sun reports. By the end of September 2011, the number of negative equity cases grew to 4.9 per cent, having increased from 3.7 per cent half way through the year. Researcher at RP Data Cameron Kusher told the news provider that properties in Victoria fared the best, with only 1.9 per cent of Melbourne homes worth less than they were originally purchased for. "Victoria has been a stand-out performer, but it will be important to keep our eye on the employment situation," he commented. Bosses at building developer Cedar Woods recently told the Australian Associated Press that despite the uncertainty surrounding the housing market, they believe that more projects will get the green light in 2012.

Developer predicts rise in home loan uptake

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 13:00:00 GMT

A major house building developer in the Perth and Melbourne area has predicted uptake of home loans to grow in 2012.

Property investors urged to consider suburbs

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 13:00:00 GMT

Property investors in Australia have been urged to add houses in the suburbs of major cities to their portfolio.

Home loan uptake grows in November, new figures show

Sun, 15 Jan 2012 13:00:00 GMT

The number of Aussies taking out home loans in November 2011 grew by 1.4 per cent when compared to the previous month.

Home loan uptake grew in November, new figures show

Sun, 08 Jan 2012 13:00:00 GMT

The number of Aussies taking out home loans increased in November 2011, new figures released by the Housing Industry Association (HIA) have suggested. According to the organisation, the number of property sales grew by 6.8 per cent during the month, as plenty of people took advantage of interest rate cuts sanctioned by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA). This followed on from a 2.8 per cent decline in October and the HIA's chief economist Harley Dale believes the latest statistics are encouraging, but there is still a long way to go before the industry is back in full swing. "At present, sales volumes are running at least 20 per cent below what you could conservatively call healthy," he remarked. The RBA made two readjustments to interest rates at the end of last year, slashing them by 0.25 per cent in November and December. Some economists have since predicted that further cuts will be made to interest rates in the near future, with chief economist at HSBC Paul Bloxham hinting that changes could be made as early as February.

Demand for home loans 'has risen robustly'

Thu, 29 Dec 2011 13:00:00 GMT

The demand for home loans in Australia has grown sharply since March 2011, new figures have suggested.

House prices set to fall further in 2012

Wed, 28 Dec 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Home loan customers could see house prices fall even further in 2012, which may leave some Aussies facing negative equity issues.

Aussie builders making smaller houses, study shows

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Aussies who are attempting to secure a home loan before getting their first foot on to the property ladder may have to settle for a smaller house than they originally expected. This is because a new study, conducted by Bloomberg, has indicated that major homebuilders are scaling down the average size of new properties because of reduced demand and high land costs. Over the last three years, construction specialist Stockland has reduced the average size of its new developments by 20 per cent. Peet and Australand Property Group are also making economies, the research discovered. "There's an affordability crisis in Australia and one way of keeping the price point where people can afford it is to reduce the size," commented national president of industry group Urban Development Institute of Australia Peter Sherrie. A recent survey conducted by Mortgage Choice found that a growing number of Aussies are getting their finances pre-approved before committing to home loans.

House prices set to rise in Sydney

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 13:00:00 GMT

People looking for cheap home loans before buying a property in Sydney may be wise to act quickly, as experts predict property prices in the city are set to rise very soon.

Home loan customers see house prices tumble

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 13:00:00 GMT

House hunters may be wise to secure a home loan as soon as possible, as property prices across Australia have fallen sharply.

Property sales remain slow across Australia

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Aussies still appear reluctant to commit to home loans, as property sales remain subdued throughout the country.

Home loan customers face negative equity concerns

Sun, 27 Nov 2011 13:00:00 GMT

A growing number of Aussie house hunters looking for the best home loan rates are facing increasing negative equity concerns.

House prices in mining towns spiralling upwards

Thu, 24 Nov 2011 13:00:00 GMT

House hunters who live in towns that have been at the centre of Australia's mining boom are requiring huge home loans in order to secure a property.

Aussies set to benefit from cheaper home loans, study shows

Thu, 24 Nov 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Aussies looking to move into a new property may be wise to compare home loans sooner rather than later, it has been suggested.

Demand for auction property subdued in Victoria

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Home loans customers in parts of Australia have seen the number of properties being snapped up at auctions decline.

More home loans customers 'have unused space'

Thu, 17 Nov 2011 13:00:00 GMT

An increasing number of Aussies who have taken out home loans are living in houses that are unnecessarily large.

Caution needed when securing home loan rates, Ombudsman says

Wed, 16 Nov 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Australia's Credit Ombudsman has warned people looking for home loans to be careful when committing to a fixed rate.

Sydney's Point Piper 'Australia's priciest suburb'

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Home loan customers may be interested to learn that the most expensive suburb in the country is Sydney's Point Piper, where the median property price is $8.25 million.

Home loan repayments 'should be kept steady after rate cut'

Mon, 14 Nov 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Aussies have been advised not to adjust their home loans repayments following the recent reduction in the cash rate announced at the start of the month by the Reserve Bank of Australia.

Demand for home loans among FTBs 'is returning'

Sun, 13 Nov 2011 13:00:00 GMT

The demand for new home loans among first-time buyers (FTBs) is starting to return, new figures suggest.

MBA says further interest rate cuts needed

Wed, 09 Nov 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Master Builders Australia (MBA) has asserted that the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) needs to introduce further rate cuts in order to stimulate the housing sector in the country.

Home loan approvals rise 2.2 per cent in September

Tue, 08 Nov 2011 13:00:00 GMT

The number of home loans approved by lenders in September rose by 2.2 per cent compared with the preceding month.

Commonwealth Bank cost woes 'could create mortgage problems'

Mon, 07 Nov 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Australia's Commonwealth Bank has raised concerns that its own borrowing costs could rise as a result of the European debt crisis - which in turn could impact upon home loan customers.

Rate cut 'will lead to increase in home loan applications'

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 13:00:00 GMT

The 0.25 per cent cut to the cash rate announced by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) on Tuesday (November 1st) will lead to an increase in the number of home loan applications, an expert has asserted.

Aussies 'still dream of owning a property'

Wed, 02 Nov 2011 13:00:00 GMT

While the number of buyers has declined, Aussies still dream of taking out home loans so they can own a property, according to one expert.

House prices retreat 1.2 per cent in Q3

Wed, 02 Nov 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Aussies may be more inclined to take out home loans in light of recent figures indicating a decline in the cost of property during the third quarter of 2011.

Cut to cash rate likely to encourage more Aussies to refinance

Mon, 31 Oct 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Refinancing levels are likely to increase in the coming months after the Reserve Bank of Australia's (RBA's) decision to reduce the cash rate.

Correction in Melbourne property prices 'to be expected'

Sun, 30 Oct 2011 13:00:00 GMT

The recent correction in the cost of property in Melbourne is in line with the expectations of experts, home loans customers may be interested to learn.

Homeowners 'need to get their taxes in order'

Thu, 27 Oct 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Aussies who have taken out home loans have been advised to ensure that they pay the taxes they are required to.

Brisbane 'cheapest property market in mainland Australia'

Wed, 26 Oct 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Individuals considering taking out a home loan to purchase a low-cost property in the city may want to consider looking at residences in Brisbane, as it has the cheapest market in mainland Australia, new figures indicate.

Baby boomer retirement 'to significantly affect house prices'

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Potential home loans customers may be interested to learn that the impending retirement of many of those in the baby boomer generation is expected to have a significant impact on the cost of property in the country.

Home loan customers 'are making a smart investment'

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Aussies may be encouraged to apply for cheap home loans in light of a review by ANZ, which suggested that property is the highest returning asset over the last 24 years.

Renters 'at greater poverty risk than homeowners'

Sun, 23 Oct 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Home loans customers may be less at risk of financial hardship than those renting property, it has been claimed.

Workers in insecure employment 'concerned over housing costs'

Thu, 20 Oct 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Home loans customers and those renting property who are in insecure employment are highly concerned about the cost of housing, a survey has revealed.

Pick home loans suited to your financial situation, experts recommend

Sun, 16 Oct 2011 13:00:00 GMT

property.

Aussies 'uncertain about future of house prices'

Sun, 16 Oct 2011 13:00:00 GMT

uncertainty among Aussies about the future of house prices in the country.

Housing finance figures for August "lacklustre"

Thu, 13 Oct 2011 13:00:00 GMT

The latest housing finance figures for August have been described by one expert as "lacklustre", with lending to owner-occupiers only rising by 1.2 per cent.

ABS figures show increase in home loans in August

Tue, 11 Oct 2011 13:00:00 GMT

The latest data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics indicated that there has been an increase in the number and value of home loans approved in August.

Property prices in Perth and Sydney set to increase

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Home loans customers may be tempted to purchase an abode in Sydney or Perth in light of new figures suggesting that the cost of residences in these cities will increase in the coming years.

Sydney property prices 'have held their value'

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 13:00:00 GMT

While the cost of an abode in many of Australia's major cities has declined, Sydney prices have been resilient over the last 12 months.

Home loans customers 'should not get caught up looking at interest rates'

Sun, 09 Oct 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Aussies in the market for home loans have been urged to look at features other than the interest rates on offer.

Home loans customers 'may struggle to find property hot spots'

Thu, 06 Oct 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Prospective home loans customers hoping to find a property hot spot have been warned that in the current market they may be difficult to locate.

Increasing numbers 'struggling with home loans'

Wed, 28 Sep 2011 14:00:00 GMT

There has been an increase in the number of defaults on home loans recently, according to recent research by Moody's.

HIA calls for review of housing taxes

Wed, 28 Sep 2011 14:00:00 GMT

The Housing Industry Association (HIA) has called on the government to review the taxes levied on the property sector, home loans customers may be interested to learn.

Capital city house prices decline 2.4 per cent

Tue, 27 Sep 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Aussies considering going online to compare home loans may want to consider purchasing a property in one of the capital cities, as a recent study has revealed that prices have declined.

Banks 'dominate home loans market'

Sun, 25 Sep 2011 14:00:00 GMT

The vast majority of home loans approved in Australia are from banks, according to new figures from Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS) economists.

Gen Y Aussies 'do not expect to pay off home loans before retiring'

Thu, 22 Sep 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Only one in 40 Generation Y Aussies expect to have paid off their cheap home loans to own their property outright by the time they retire, new data shows.

Home loans customers urged not to focus too much on the rate

Mon, 19 Sep 2011 14:00:00 GMT

As competition between the big four banks continues, home loans customers may be missing out if they get drawn into considering only the headline rate of the various offerings.

AAH report highlights problem of high property prices

Sun, 18 Sep 2011 14:00:00 GMT

The problems facing prospective home loans customers as a result of high prices have been highlighted by Australians for Affordable Housing (AAH) in a new report.

Aussies 'should not reduce home loan payments after rate cut'

Thu, 08 Sep 2011 14:00:00 GMT

If the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) opts to reduce interest rates in the coming months, Aussies should resist the urge to cut back on their home loan repayments, according to one lender.

Home loans customers 'need to speak up when problems arise'

Wed, 07 Sep 2011 14:00:00 GMT

People having trouble paying their home loans or who fear they may do in the future have been advised to seek help rather than ignoring the problem.

Sales of home loans soar to 18-month high

Mon, 05 Sep 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Sales of home loans rose to the highest level seen for 18 months in August this year, according to new figures.

Most Aussies 'reluctant to commit to home loans'

Thu, 01 Sep 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Many Aussies are reluctant to commit to taking out home loans and buying a property due to the nation's economic uncertainty at the moment.

Consumers warned to "think" before getting fixed rate home loans

Wed, 31 Aug 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Aussies hoping to secure home loans have been urged to consider all the ramifications of taking out a fixed-rate mortgage before they make any decisions.

Home loans customers 'should monitor potential purchases'

Wed, 24 Aug 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Home loans customers searching for a new house should take their time when they find a property they are interested and monitor the market carefully before putting in a bid.

Home loans customers 'should not rush into buying'

Sun, 21 Aug 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Aussies that have secured home loans have been urged not to rush when selecting which house best fits their criteria.

Landlords 'applying for home loans for properties in other states'

Sun, 21 Aug 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Landlords are increasingly looking to apply for home loans to enable them to purchase properties in other states, new figures indicate.

Australia records stagnation of home loan approvals

Tue, 09 Aug 2011 14:00:00 GMT

The number of home loans approved in Australia in June remained steady, new figures released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics have shown.

Mortgage rates cut at two biggest lenders

Mon, 08 Aug 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Mortgage rates at Australia's two biggest home loan lenders were slashed yesterday as turmoil in the global economy continues to generate considerable financial headwinds for the country.

Recession could lead to house price falls

Thu, 04 Aug 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Analysts in Australia have warned that if the economy is shaken by global economic turmoil and enters recession, house prices across the country could plummet - bad news for those who have already managed to secure low interest home loans.

MBA says rates hike will adversely affect demand for home loans

Wed, 03 Aug 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Master Builders Australia (MBA) has welcomed the decision by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) to keep interest rates at 4.75 per cent, but warned it against future increases.

Home loan approvals rise in NSW and Victoria

Tue, 02 Aug 2011 14:00:00 GMT

The number of home loan approvals recorded in June rose month-on-month in both New South Wales and Victoria, new data from Westpac has revealed.

Home loans customers 'should negotiate with their bank'

Mon, 01 Aug 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Aussies who compare home loans online and discover they are not satisfied with their existing deal should consider talking to their bank, the Australian Bankers' Association (ABA) has stated.

Home loans customers to pay less in capital cities

Sun, 31 Jul 2011 14:00:00 GMT

The cost of accommodation in Australia's capital cities declined in the year up to June 2011, which may mean home loans customers will be able to negotiate lower prices on abodes in these locations.

Australian income to property price ratio rises

Thu, 28 Jul 2011 14:00:00 GMT

New research by AMP Natsem has shown that the ratio between the average after-tax incomes and the value of property in Australia is increasing, which could make it more difficult for Aussies to secure home loans.

Melbourne home loans out of reach for many

Thu, 28 Jul 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Would-be home loan customers in Melbourne could struggle to get on the property ladder if prices begin to rise again.

Young home loans customers 'keen on investment property'

Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Many Generation Y Aussies are looking to get home loans to purchase investment properties, a new survey has found.

Pay off home loans faster to reduce overall cost

Sun, 24 Jul 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Aussies have been advised to consider increasing the amount they spend repaying their home loans each month in order to reduce the overall cost of their property.

Pay home loans quickly to reduce impact of interest rates

Wed, 20 Jul 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Aussies who are taking out home loans and buying a new property should consider paying off as much as they can each week in order to minimise their interest payments.

Perth property prices continue downward slide

Wed, 20 Jul 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Home loans customers considering purchasing a property in Perth may find they can get more for their money at the moment as the cost of abodes in the city fell in the second quarter of 2011.

Home loans customers 'should look at a variety of properties'

Tue, 19 Jul 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Home loans customers should not limit themselves to certain areas or property types when considering which abode to purchase, an expert has stated.

Home loans customers 'should negotiate for a lower rate'

Tue, 19 Jul 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Prospective home loans customers should consider negotiating for a better rate when applying for a mortgage, an expert has claimed.

Sydney 'the star of Australia's property market'

Mon, 18 Jul 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Home loans customers may want to consider investing in an abode in Sydney as the city was described by one expert as one of the "bright stars on the horizon" of the country's property market.

Younger generations 'need educating about financial security'

Sun, 17 Jul 2011 14:00:00 GMT

It is vital that young Aussies are educated about finances and the benefits of taking out home loans so they can own their own property, it has been claimed.

Home loans market 'boosted by talk of cutting interest rates'

Sun, 17 Jul 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Recent speculation that interest rates may be cut in the future could increase confidence levels among prospective home loans customers, experts have stated.

MBA chief economist says home loan figures 'are encouraging'

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 14:00:00 GMT

The latest home loan figures for May 2011 have been described by the chief economist at the Master Builders Association (MBA) as "encouraging".

Carbon tax to push up new-build prices for home loans customers

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Home loans applicants considering purchasing a new-build home may do well to purchase one sooner rather than later as the cost of these abodes could be set to increase.

Victoria house prices 'likely to stagnate'

Sun, 10 Jul 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Home loans applicants considering purchasing a property in Victoria in the coming years may be interested to learn that two experts have forecast that prices are likely to remain stagnant.

Home loan approval figures pick up in May

Sun, 10 Jul 2011 14:00:00 GMT

The number of home loan approvals in May rose to the highest level seen in the last two years, new figures reveal.

Home loans customers 'struggle to afford available houses'

Thu, 07 Jul 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Australia does not have a shortage of properties at the moment, the problem is that prices are too high for home loans customers, according to one expert.

Home loans customers 'keeping ratios down'

Thu, 07 Jul 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Aussie home loans customers are taking steps to keep their loan-to-value ratios down as the cautious approach of consumers to debt and credit continues.

Australian cities among most expensive in world

Thu, 07 Jul 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Australian cities are among the most expensive places in the world to live - with day-to-day costs in Sydney and Melbourne outstripping the likes of London and New York.

Victoria set to have more options for home loans customers

Wed, 06 Jul 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Aussies with a home loan secured may wish to consider looking at property in Victoria, where residential building activity is booming.

Home loan repayments 'among the best uses for a windfall'

Wed, 06 Jul 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Aussies who unexpectedly come into a significant amount of cash have been urged to consider making a large one-off payment on their home loans.

Consumer groups praise exit fee ban

Tue, 05 Jul 2011 14:00:00 GMT

The ban on banks imposing exit fees on home loans has been praised by consumer groups, which say it will now be easier for borrowers to switch to an alternative provider.

Home loans customers opting for NAB

Mon, 04 Jul 2011 14:00:00 GMT

The National Australia Bank (NAB) is enjoying a boom in the number of home loans customers it is attracting.

Developers 'making smaller properties for home loans customers'

Sun, 03 Jul 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Aussies considering getting a home loan to take their first step on the housing ladder may not get as much land as the generations before them.

Aussies advised to compare home loans

Wed, 29 Jun 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Aussies that have kept up repayments on their home loans and have a good credit record have been advised to look at different mortgages to see if they can get a better deal.

Home loan application fees increase among small lenders

Wed, 29 Jun 2011 14:00:00 GMT

With the introduction of the ban on exit fees by home loans providers set to come into force tomorrow (July 1st 2011), a number of smaller lenders have announced increases to application fees.

Home loans customers warned about interest rates increase

Mon, 27 Jun 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Prospective home loans customers may want to consider applying for a fixed rate mortgage in light of recent warnings that interest rates are set to increase.

Young home loans customers 'avoid rent to save cash'

Mon, 27 Jun 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Three-quarters of people under the age of 30 revealed that they had stayed at home longer than they wanted to in order to put money aside in a savings account to pay for a deposit, a new survey has revealed.

Could growing number of millionaires have impact on home loans?

Thu, 23 Jun 2011 14:00:00 GMT

More Aussies could have the financial clout to compare home loan rates and buy a new abode, as a study showed an increasing number of millionaires are living in the country.

Upper house Senate backs home loans measures

Wed, 22 Jun 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Consumers looking to secure the best home loan rates have learned that they will not face mortgage exit fees in the future.

Refinancing home loans for renovations 'is an attractive option'

Mon, 20 Jun 2011 14:00:00 GMT

An unprecedented number of Australians are refinancing their home loans in order to renovate their existing property, an expert has stated.

Home loans customers 'should keep credit file clean'

Sun, 19 Jun 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Individuals applying for a home loan should take steps to ensure they keep their credit file as clean as possible, an expert has stated.

Home loans 'wanted for townhouses and apartments'

Sun, 19 Jun 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Aussies applying for home loans are more likely to want a townhouse or apartment in the city than traditional housing, according to a new study.

Insurance for home loans customers rises in flood zones

Thu, 16 Jun 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Home loans customers in Queensland and Victoria are experiencing massive hikes in their insurance premiums as a result of the floods last year.

Perth 'has plenty for home loans customers'

Thu, 16 Jun 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Prospective home loans customers may find that now is the ideal time to purchase a property in Perth as the city has a large number of abodes available.

Home loans customers 'may have a greater choice'

Wed, 15 Jun 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Aussies who compare home loans and secure financing for a property purchase in the near future may be encouraged to learn that they might have a greater choice when they start their search.

Home loan approvals rise in Melbourne

Tue, 14 Jun 2011 14:00:00 GMT

The housing market in Melbourne has started to show signs of picking up, with new figures indicating a 1.8 per cent year-on-year increase in home loans approvals in the first four months of 2011.

NAB remains strong despite home loans arrears

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 14:00:00 GMT

House hunters looking for low interest home loans have heard how a major mortgage provider has maintained a strong financial position.

Abbott criticises exit fee ban

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 14:00:00 GMT

The introduction of a ban on exit fees imposed by banks on those hoping to switch home loans has been criticised by the federal opposition leader Tony Abbott.

Gen Y home loans customers 'to boost housing market'

Sun, 12 Jun 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Aussies that are part of Generation Y are likely to be one of the leading forces in reviving the country's housing market, it has been claimed.

Home loans customers 'should check qualifications of builders'

Thu, 09 Jun 2011 14:00:00 GMT

People with home loans who want to increase the value of their abodes by adding extensions or making other changes have been warned to ensure they check that those they employ to undertake work are properly qualified.

Financially stressed Aussies still paying off home loans

Thu, 09 Jun 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Aussies concerned about their ability to pay off a home loan if they choose to purchase a house may be encouraged by the results of a recent study, which show that others in the country are still managing not to miss payments.

Average Australian home loan customer is 31

Thu, 09 Jun 2011 14:00:00 GMT

The average age of people logging on to compare home loans for the first time has risen in the past few decades.

MFA fights against mortgage exit fee ban

Thu, 09 Jun 2011 14:00:00 GMT

The Mortgage and Finance Association (MFA) of Australia is to launch an advertising campaign against a proposed ban on home loan exit fees.

Australia's housing boom is 'languishing'

Thu, 09 Jun 2011 14:00:00 GMT

A recovery in the Australian housing market is losing momentum as those looking to compare home loans struggle to raise cash for a deposit.

April new home loan approvals rise 4.8 per cent

Tue, 07 Jun 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Aussies who are thinking of going online to compare home loans may be encouraged by recent figures published by the Australian Bureau of Statistics indicating an increase the number of mortgage approvals.

Sydney property prices 'expected to rise'

Sun, 05 Jun 2011 14:00:00 GMT

The cost of buying a home in Sydney could become more expensive soon, according to the latest predictions into the market.

Exercise caution 'over loyalty discount home loans'

Sun, 05 Jun 2011 14:00:00 GMT

People planning on buying a property who are intending to use a loyalty discount home loan have been advised to exercise caution before choosing this option.

Obtaining a home loan 'becoming easier'

Thu, 02 Jun 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Householders who are hoping to take their first step on to the property ladder could start to find it easier to get a larger loan.

Mortgage arrears a cause for concern, says ANZ

Thu, 02 Jun 2011 14:00:00 GMT

The number of people who have fallen into arrears on their mortgages is creating a cause for concern, according to ANZ Bank.

Smaller home loans to be needed in Perth and Brisbane

Wed, 01 Jun 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Aussies considering getting home loans to purchase property in Perth or Brisbane this year may be in line to pick up a bargain if recent data is to be believed.

Home loans 'more likely to go to those responsible with cash'

Tue, 31 May 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Aussies hoping to secure home loans in the near future should take steps to ensure they can show how responsible they are with money.

One-quarter of Aussies 'will not own their home when they retire'

Tue, 31 May 2011 14:00:00 GMT

About one-quarter of Australia's future retirees will not own their home by the time they finish work, according to recent research.

Luxury Australian property prices fall

Mon, 30 May 2011 14:00:00 GMT

The value of luxury properties in Australia's state capitals has declined sharply - offering hope to those in search of decent home loan rates.

Natural disasters 'hit Australian economy hard'

Mon, 30 May 2011 14:00:00 GMT

The recent spate of natural disasters in Australia are expected to have a lasting impact on the country's economy.

Rise in house affordability 'offers hope for buyers'

Thu, 26 May 2011 14:00:00 GMT

People who are hoping to obtain a home loan deal could find there is a light at the end of the tunnel for them, following new figures from the Commonwealth Bank/Housing Industry Association (HIA).

Some first home buyers 'may be over-committed'

Wed, 25 May 2011 14:00:00 GMT

First home buyers who purchased a property in 2009 when the federal government grant was increased may have overstretched themselves financially, it has been suggested.

Key fact sheets for home loans deadline 'may be extended'

Wed, 25 May 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Following the voicing of concerns over the tight deadline for the release of key facts sheets about home loans, banks may be given more time to complete the documents.

Refinancing home loans 'can effectively reduce rates'

Tue, 24 May 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Aussies hoping to minimise the amount they pay in interest on their mortgage may be able to achieve this by going online to compare home loans and switching to one with a lower rate.

Sharing a property 'is a good way to save for home loans'

Mon, 23 May 2011 14:00:00 GMT

A growing number of people are remaining in shared houses to enable them to save for a deposit so they can get home loans, new research has shown.

NAB to offer cheaper home loans online

Sun, 22 May 2011 14:00:00 GMT

People looking for a mortgage may be tempted to compare home loans online after the National Australian Bank (NAB) revealed it plans to sell cheaper products on the internet.

Cost-of-living increases blamed for home loans delays

Wed, 18 May 2011 14:00:00 GMT

More than four out of ten Aussies applying for home loans attribute delays in applications to the rising cost of living.

Extending a property 'may be a shrewd move for sellers'

Mon, 16 May 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Aussies considering selling their property and taking out a home loan to buy a new residence in the future may find that improving their existing abode makes financial sense, it has been claimed.

New flood maps to guide home loans customers in Brisbane

Mon, 16 May 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Brisbane residents or those considering going online to compare home loans to purchase a property in the city may benefit from new flood maps released by Brisbane City Council.

Queensland premier considers reducing red tape for flood victims

Mon, 16 May 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Queensland premier Anna Bligh has revealed the authorities in the area are looking into ways to make it easier for home loans customers and other people with property in the region to improve their residences.

Home loans drop 1.5 per cent in March

Sun, 15 May 2011 14:00:00 GMT

The number of Australians who took out home loans in March was the lowest recorded in the country since February 2001.

Interest in buying property 'has declined'

Sun, 15 May 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Prospective home loans customers may find property prices more competitive at the moment as interest in purchasing dwellings has dropped recently.

ANZ: House prices 'likely to be relatively stable in 2011'

Thu, 12 May 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Prospective home loans customers hoping to purchase a property this year may find that the price of their chosen acquisition is unlikely to decline significantly, according to a recent report.

Aussies 'should aim to pay off home loans quickly'

Wed, 11 May 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Australians should aim to pay off their home loans quickly so they own their dwellings outright, according to one expert.

Fixing mortgage rates 'is a good risk management strategy'

Tue, 10 May 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Aussies looking to take out home loans may be able to benefit from opting for a package that offers a fixed rate of interest.

Downturn in property market 'is just beginning'

Sun, 08 May 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Prospective home loans customers hoping to get on the property ladder for the first time may be encouraged by the comments of one expert, who claimed the downturn in the market is "just beginning".

Europe's debt crisis to affect home loans applicants?

Thu, 05 May 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Home loans customers may be among those affected by the debt crisis in Europe in light of recent comments by ANZ chief executive Mike Smith.

Home building approvals drop 0.8 per cent

Wed, 04 May 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Aussies going online to compare home loans may be more likely to purchase existing properties than previously unowned ones as new-build approvals dropped in March month-on-month.

New property sales 'rise for third successive month'

Tue, 03 May 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Sales of new property in Australia rose for the third consecutive month in March, recent figures reveal.

ANZ chief welcomes property price drops

Tue, 03 May 2011 14:00:00 GMT

The decline in property prices has been welcomed by the chief of ANZ Mike Smith.

Women 'looking for home loans without men'

Mon, 02 May 2011 14:00:00 GMT

A growing number of women are opting to compare home loans and get onto the property ladder by themselves, according to recent figures.

Home loans customers 'should sell before buying'

Wed, 27 Apr 2011 14:00:00 GMT

People hoping to get home loans to enable them to move to a bigger house should not purchase a property before they have sold their existing one.

Aussies 'increasingly turning to smaller banks for home loans'

Tue, 26 Apr 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Smaller domestic banks are proving to be an increasingly popular option for Aussies in search of home loans.

East Adelaide 'may offer opportunities to home loans customers'

Mon, 25 Apr 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Aussies who are trying to secure home loans may find they get a good value property if they look in the eastern suburbs of Adelaide, it has been claimed.

Property sector 'is becoming a buyer's market'

Wed, 20 Apr 2011 14:00:00 GMT

The number of home loans being issued in Australia has dipped significantly in the past few months, as the property sector continues to become a buyer's market.

Banks give Queensland homeowners more time

Mon, 18 Apr 2011 14:00:00 GMT

People with home loans from Australian banks who were affected by flooding in Queensland have received the news that freezes on repayment periods will be extended.

Australians should 'compare home loans online'

Sun, 17 Apr 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Australians looking to find a more competitive mortgage should use the internet to compare home loans, it has been suggested.

Home loan applicants 'should have all their financial data ready'

Sun, 17 Apr 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Aussies who have already been online to compare home loans and are ready to apply should try to have as much information about their finances to hand as possible.

Rental costs 'are on the rise'

Thu, 14 Apr 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Aussies may be more inclined to compare home loans and purchase a property after recent figures indicated that the cost of renting is increasing.

Aussies 'opting to compare home loans through brokers'

Wed, 13 Apr 2011 14:00:00 GMT

A growing number of Australians are opting to compare home loans by going to a mortgage broker, a new report has found.

Aussies on three-year fixed loans look to change their mortgage

Wed, 13 Apr 2011 14:00:00 GMT

There has been a 30 per cent surge in the number of inquiries by people looking to move out of a fixed-rate home loan this year, new data has revealed.

Australian property prices 'set to decline further'

Tue, 12 Apr 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Those applying for home loans to purchase a property are likely to see the cost of buying a house fall in the coming months.

Home loans figures fall in February

Tue, 12 Apr 2011 14:00:00 GMT

The amount of money lent to people who secure home loans fell by 4.6 per cent in February this year, recent figures indicate.

Lenders 'might reduce variable rates on home loans in the coming months'

Mon, 11 Apr 2011 14:00:00 GMT

People hoping to compare home loans might be more inclined to consider a variable-rate option in light of recent suggestions that lenders are planning to cut interest rates.

Demand for housing finance 'has declined'

Mon, 11 Apr 2011 14:00:00 GMT

The dip in demand for home loans has highlighted the fragility of the country's residential real estate market at present and some experts are raising concerns as to whether houses across Australia are now too expensive.

Bankruptcies decline 17.4 per cent in March

Sun, 10 Apr 2011 14:00:00 GMT

The number of bankruptcies last month fell by 17.4 per cent in the year leading up to March, new data has shown.

One-third of couples 'want property before kids'

Sun, 10 Apr 2011 14:00:00 GMT

More than one-third (34 per cent) of couples in Australia are thinking about delaying their plans to start a family because they want to get home loans and purchase a property.

Home loans customers 'dissatisfied after rate rises'

Thu, 07 Apr 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Home loans customers in Australia have expressed greater levels of dissatisfaction in light of recent increases to rates, according to recent data.

IMF urges governments to help provide affordable housing

Thu, 07 Apr 2011 14:00:00 GMT

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has issued a statement urging governments across the world to help provide low-cost housing for their citizens.

Nearly one-third of Aussies "financially unfit" for home loans

Wed, 06 Apr 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Almost one-third (31 per cent) of people in Australia are not fit for home loans, according to a recent report.

Approval for home loans decline to 10 year low

Tue, 05 Apr 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Approvals for home loans in Australia sank to their lowest level in ten years in February.

Borrowing 'should be seen as a tool not a burden'

Tue, 05 Apr 2011 14:00:00 GMT

The ability to borrow money, for example by getting home loans, should be seen as a tool by Australians.

Stimulus for new-build sector 'could create more affordable property'

Mon, 04 Apr 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Home loans customers could find there is more affordable property on the market if the government provides a stimulus for the new house building sector.

Young Aussies in Sydney 'may need help from parents to get home loans'

Sun, 03 Apr 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Young Australians hoping to get a foot on the property ladder in Sydney might find the only way to do this is if they get help with the deposit for the home loans from their parents.

Property prices 'remained stable in February'

Fri, 01 Apr 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Aussies considering heading online to compare home loans might be encouraged by recent figures showing the price of property remained stable in February.

Businessman criticises plans to ban home loans exit fees

Wed, 30 Mar 2011 13:00:00 GMT

An expert has slammed the government's plans to ban mortgage providers from hitting consumers with exit fees.

Fixed-rate home loans 'provide security through predictability'

Sun, 27 Mar 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Having fixed-rate home loans is an effective way for Aussies to work out exactly how much they will need to pay on their mortgages each year, an expert has noted.

Exit fees for home loans banned

Tue, 22 Mar 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Aussies might be encouraged to compare home loans in light of a recent ruling banning exit fees on mortgages.

Aussies 'need to build up a home loan deposit'

Mon, 21 Mar 2011 13:00:00 GMT

People searching for no-deposit finance to purchase a property need to save up money and compare home loans covering 95 per cent of the cost, it has been claimed.

Home loan prospects to improve for first-time buyers?

Thu, 17 Mar 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Low-interest home loans for first-time buyers could be in demand, after it has been revealed by one publication that house prices in Australia are expected to be cheaper this year.

Aussies 'struggled to pay off home loans in Q4'

Tue, 15 Mar 2011 13:00:00 GMT

An unexpectedly high number of Aussies struggled to make payments on their home loans in the final three months of 2010, according to Fitch Ratings.

Sydney 'has 9th most expensive street in the world'

Mon, 14 Mar 2011 13:00:00 GMT

The world's ninth most expensive street is in Sydney, those thinking about going online to compare home loans might be interested to learn.

Approvals for home loans increase in Queensland

Mon, 14 Mar 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Queensland residents who want to compare home loans online might be encouraged to hear that approvals in the region rose during February.

Pay home loans fortnightly to reduce debt, advises expert

Mon, 14 Mar 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Consumers looking for a new way of dealing with home loans might find it is a good idea to increase the regularity of their payments.

Prospective retirees 'should focus on paying off mortgage'

Sun, 13 Mar 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Those with low interest home loans who are preparing for retirement should consider making a concerted effort to pay off their mortgage, it has been suggested.

Home loans wanted 'to avoid paying rent'

Wed, 09 Mar 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Home loans are in high demand among Aussies who no longer want to have to deal with rising rental costs, a recent survey suggests.

Home loans 'harder to get for key community workers'

Wed, 09 Mar 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Home loans in most Aussie capital cities are difficult for key community workers - such as police and teachers - to find because of the high cost of property, recent research suggests.

Decline in new builds affects home loan demand

Tue, 08 Mar 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Those looking to compare home loans ahead of moving house may be searching for finance to help them buy an older property, as new figures have revealed a decline in new build projects and home loans.

NSW sees drop in defaults on home loans

Mon, 07 Mar 2011 13:00:00 GMT

The number of property owners in New South Wales (NSW) defaulting on their home loans dropped during 2010, however interest rate rises caused the fall to slow towards the end of the year.

Parents 'might be able to help youngsters seeking home loans'

Sun, 06 Mar 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Older members of a family might be able to help young people seeking their first home loan by assisting them with their deposit, an expert has suggested.

Variable home loan rates 'growing in popularity'

Sun, 06 Mar 2011 13:00:00 GMT

House buyers in Australia are starting to favour variable home loan rates as they look into their options more closely, it has been claimed.

Aussie homes are 'overvalued'

Thu, 03 Mar 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Aussie househunters who are currently comparing home loans online with a view to buying a property could be among those interested in the findings of a new report.

Westpac chief hits out over exit fee plans

Thu, 03 Mar 2011 13:00:00 GMT

House-hunting Aussies who are looking to compare home loans online could be among those interested in the comments of one banking chief regarding exit fees.

NAB cuts online home loan rates

Wed, 02 Mar 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Aussies currently looking to compare home loans online could be among those interested in a recent announcement from the National Australia Bank (NAB).

Be wary of special deals from big banks, home loan customers told

Wed, 02 Mar 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Aussie house hunters looking to compare home loans online could be among those interested in the views expressed in a recent article on the current "battle of the banks".

'Bank War' does little to shake up repayment term rankings, report shows

Tue, 01 Mar 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Aussies looking to purchase properties and therefore compare home loans online, could be among those interested in the findings of a new report.

More people search for property in Australia

Sun, 27 Feb 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Aussies could be tempted to compare home loans sooner rather than later following suggestions of increased interest from overseas buyers.

Fee-free loan launched by CBA

Sun, 27 Feb 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Aussies looking to purchase new properties could be encouraged to compare home loans following the launch of a new product by the Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA).

Australian borrowers boosted by 'ground-breaking new home loan'

Thu, 24 Feb 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Australians on the lookout for home loans have been given a further boost with the launch of a new mortgage deal which is being touted as being the 'first of its kind'.

Saving for a home top priority for many young professionals

Thu, 24 Feb 2011 13:00:00 GMT

As many as one in three young professionals in Australia are actively working to bolster their savings accounts in a bid to get onto the property ladder sooner rather than later.

Coalition spilt over home loans exit fee plans

Wed, 23 Feb 2011 13:00:00 GMT

The federal coalition is reportedly spilt over the issue of scrapping exit fees on home loans.

1 in 4 Aussies ignorant of interest on home loans

Mon, 21 Feb 2011 13:00:00 GMT

A significant proportion of Australians are still in the dark over how much interest they pay on their home loans, new research has found.

Consumers tipped to pay the price for banking feuds

Sun, 20 Feb 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Just last week, Australians with home loans were boosted by the news that one of the country's biggest lenders is to pay the exit fees of customers currently signed up to its rivals.

Property investors more downbeat over sector prospects

Thu, 17 Feb 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Property investors have become increasingly downbeat about the short-to-medium-term prospects of the Australian housing market, new research shows.

Australian Families set to be hit by rise in health insurance costs

Wed, 16 Feb 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Families across Australia are set to be faced with an increase to their health insurance costs as private healthcare providers look to take advantage of a struggling public hospital system, it has been reported.

Homeowners could be hit by extra fees as banks cover exit fee costs

Tue, 15 Feb 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Thousands of Australian homeowners will still have to pay exit fees should they wish to part ways with their home loan providers.

Swan welcomes competition in high street banking

Mon, 14 Feb 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Treasurer Wayne Swan has welcomed heightened levels of competition between some of Australia's biggest consumer-facing banks.

Living costs edge ahead of CPI

Sun, 13 Feb 2011 13:00:00 GMT

The rising cost of living for working families, pensioners and those on welfare has overtaken the consumer price index, according to data published by the Bureau of Statistics.

NAB exit fee deal could cause mortgage war

Sun, 13 Feb 2011 13:00:00 GMT

On Saturday NAB announced that it would cover the $700 mortgage exit fees of two of its rivals who have refused to scrap the charges that are proving extremely unpopular with consumers.

Housing figures give mixed outlook

Sun, 13 Feb 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Clear signs of recovery in the housing market are yet to emerge as the latest figures suggest rate hikes have hit consumers hard.

Loan Market backs 'rental history' initiative

Thu, 10 Feb 2011 13:00:00 GMT

National mortgage broker Loan Market has backed St George Bank's recent decision to allow first-time home buyers the chance to use rent history as evidence of genuine savings when applying for home loans.

Fixed-rate home loan demand steadies

Thu, 10 Feb 2011 13:00:00 GMT

The demand for fixed-rate home loans steadied last month, suggesting borrowers are less concerned about interest rate rises at present.

Mortgage lending at lowest level since 2000

Wed, 09 Feb 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Owner-occupier mortgage lending reached a ten-year low in 2010 in the wake of rising affordability problems in the housing market.

CBA defends home loan hike after bumper profit

Tue, 08 Feb 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Commonwealth Bank (CBA) has once again been forced to defend its large November interest rate rise after reporting record cash earnings of $3.3 billion for the six months to the end of December.

Banking reforms could lead to higher fees, says NAB

Mon, 07 Feb 2011 13:00:00 GMT

National Australia Bank (NAB) has claimed that the federal government's proposed package of banking reforms could lead to customers being hit with higher fees.

Home loan offers cut to borrowers with children

Sun, 06 Feb 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Borrowers with children are being offered smaller home loans because of fears about their ability to meet repayments, it has been revealed.

NAB increases home loan market share

Thu, 03 Feb 2011 13:00:00 GMT

National Australia Bank (NAB) has increased its share of the home loan market in the wake of higher interest rates at some of its main competitors.

Home borrowing hits 7-year low

Wed, 02 Feb 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Mortgage lending slumped to a seven-year low in January, according to figures from AFG, the nation's largest mortgage broker.

Mortgage holders urged to get ahead on repayments

Tue, 01 Feb 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Aussie mortgage holders have been advised to get ahead on their repayments and shrink their home loans to help them achieve better "peace of mind".

Housing market feels effects of 2010's rate hikes

Mon, 31 Jan 2011 13:00:00 GMT

House prices rose slightly in the final quarter of last year but remained well below peak levels as 2010's interest rate rises continued to bite.

Many borrowers 'think all lenders are the same'

Sun, 30 Jan 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Many Australian borrowers fail to compare home loans and switch to better deals because they mistakenly believe all lenders are the same, an expert has observed.

WA borrowers struggle with rising living costs

Thu, 27 Jan 2011 13:00:00 GMT

A local mortgage broker in Western Australia has pointed to rising living costs and irresponsible lending practices as reasons for the high mortgage default rate in one of its towns.

Home loan bills set to rise by $200 per month

Wed, 26 Jan 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Australians will see their mortgage repayments rise by an extra $200 per month by the end of this year or early 2012, it has been predicted.

RAMS: Refinancing home loans leads to greater happiness

Wed, 26 Jan 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Australians who have chosen to compare home loans and refinance their current deal in the last five years have seen a variety of benefits including having fewer arguments with their partner, being happier and even sleeping better at night, new research has found.

Compare home loans ahead of rate hikes, says broker

Tue, 25 Jan 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Australian mortgage holders have been urged to compare home loans and consider refinancing before expected interest rate rises come into force later this year.

House prices tipped to fall amid tight credit conditions

Mon, 24 Jan 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Australia's housing market is set for a slowdown this year in the wake of last year's interest rate hikes and continuing constrained access to credit, new research shows.

Mortgage borrowers may face compulsory flood insurance rules

Sun, 23 Jan 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Westpac is considering the idea of requiring home loan customers to take out flood insurance as standard should they live in flood-prone areas.

Kelly sceptical on banking reform impact

Thu, 20 Jan 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Westpac chief executive Gail Kelly has expressed doubt on the extent to which the government's proposed package of banking reforms will increase competition in the sector.

CBA cuts home loan fees in bid to win round customers

Thu, 20 Jan 2011 13:00:00 GMT

The Commonwealth Bank (CBA) is scrapping fees across a range of mortgage and savings accounts in a bid to improve customer satisfaction, it has been revealed.

Banking reform debate returns to the spotlight

Wed, 19 Jan 2011 13:00:00 GMT

The debate surrounding the federal government's proposed package of major banking reforms is set to return to the spotlight this week.

Home loan defaults could hit $4bn after floods

Tue, 18 Jan 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Thousands of Queensland borrowers are at risk of defaulting on their home loans following the flood disaster, new research has found.

Demand for 100% home loans returns

Mon, 17 Jan 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Australian first-time home buyers are once again seeking to secure 100 per cent home loans as they struggle to get on the property ladder.

Mortgage Choice also reveals rise in fixed loans

Sun, 16 Jan 2011 13:00:00 GMT

The demand for fixed-rate home loans reached a 31-month high in December 2010, figures from Mortgage Choice show.

Bad home loan debt set to rise in wake of floods

Thu, 13 Jan 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Banks in Queensland have been warned to brace themselves for a sharp rise in the number of borrowers defaulting on payments in the wake of the flood devastation.

Aussies look to compare home loans as brokers do well

Wed, 12 Jan 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Mortgage brokers were not as severely hit by last year's lending slowdown as other areas of the home loan market, new research shows.

Mortgage lending up in surprise November result

Tue, 11 Jan 2011 13:00:00 GMT

The number of new home loans surprisingly went up in November 2010, the same month that the Reserve Bank chose to lift the official cash rate to 4.75 per cent.

Home building falls again amid interest rate fears

Mon, 10 Jan 2011 13:00:00 GMT

House building activity fell for a seventh consecutive month in December, new research shows.

Borrowers urged to conduct 'home loan health check'

Sun, 09 Jan 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Aussie borrowers have been urged to conduct a "home loan health check" ahead of likely interest rate rises this year.

Fixed-rate home loans grow in popularity

Thu, 06 Jan 2011 13:00:00 GMT

The number of Australian homeowners opting for a fixed-rate mortgage rose considerably last year, new figures suggest.

New home sales drop amid November rate hikes

Wed, 05 Jan 2011 13:00:00 GMT

New home sales fell across Australia in November 2010 amid rising interest rates, the Housing Industry Association (HIA) has said.

Mortgage holders urged to make New Year's resolution

Tue, 04 Jan 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Aussie borrowers have been urged to use the New Year as an opportunity to get their finances in order.

Home buyer grants fell dramatically in 2010

Mon, 03 Jan 2011 13:00:00 GMT

The number of people applying for a federal government first-homebuyer grant fell dramatically last year, new figures show.

Interest rates 'scaring off' first-time buyers, says expert

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 13:00:00 GMT

First-time property buyers in Australia are being put off investing by the threat of rising interest rates, it has been claimed.

House prices fall in November, report shows

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 13:00:00 GMT

House prices in Australian capital cities took a fall in November, new figures have shown.

Home loan holders to benefit from Paid Parental Leave scheme

Wed, 29 Dec 2010 13:00:00 GMT

A mortgage holder has explained how she plans to use a new parental assistance initiative to cover costs.

Australia best in the world for house price increases

Tue, 28 Dec 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Australia was the world's leading country with regard to house price increases in 2010, new figures have shown.

Will Aussies compare home loans as property price growth slows?

Tue, 28 Dec 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Australia's house price increases have slowed and are set to rise at a slower pace over the coming months, according to one industry expert.

'Angry' Aussies looking to switch banks

Tue, 28 Dec 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Angry mortgage holders across Australia are looking to switch banks, according to a new report.

Mortgage holders worry about rising living costs

Thu, 23 Dec 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Home loan holders are particularly concerned about rising living costs next year, new research has found.

Banking reforms will help hard-up families, says union

Wed, 22 Dec 2010 13:00:00 GMT

The federal government's new package of banking reforms will radically improve the lives of working families struggling to meet high home loan costs, the Australian Workers Union (AWU) has said.

Queensland default rates among worst in country

Tue, 21 Dec 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Home loan delinquency rates in Queensland are among the worst in the country, new research has found.

Will Aussies look to compare home loans as expert predicts price rises?

Mon, 20 Dec 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Australians looking to get a foot on the property ladder could be encouraged to compare home loans sooner rather than later following the comments of one industry expert.

Banking reforms 'won't guarantee lower rates'

Sun, 19 Dec 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Assistant treasurer Bill Shorten has cast doubt on whether the federal government's recently announced package of banking reforms will result in lower interest rates.

Low-income mortgage holders struggle to pay bills

Thu, 16 Dec 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Low-income Australian families with a mortgage have struggled to pay their electricity bills over the past year to a much greater extent than their middle-income equivalents.

Aussie house prices driven up by 'scarcity of land'

Wed, 15 Dec 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Housing supply problems are continuing to drive up property prices in Australia, an International Monetary Fund (IMF) report has found.

Home loan competition 'won't change under reforms'

Tue, 14 Dec 2010 13:00:00 GMT

The government's recently unveiled package of banking reforms will do little to change competition in the mortgage market, an industry expert has claimed.

Mozo wants your views on bank reforms

Mon, 13 Dec 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Financial comparison service mozo.com.au has launched an online poll aimed at gauging Australians' reactions to the bank reforms announced by the government this week.

Mortgage rates will fall under reforms, says Swan

Sun, 12 Dec 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Home loan rates will fall once a planned package of banking reforms comes into force, treasurer Wayne Swan has said.

Non-bank lenders gain growing share of home loan market

Thu, 09 Dec 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Non-bank lenders like building societies and credit unions have achieved record activity in the mortgage market this year, new figures show.

More Aussie home buyers choose to fix loans

Wed, 08 Dec 2010 13:00:00 GMT

A growing number of Australian property buyers are opting for the security of a fixed rate home loan, new figures show.

One million Aussies plan to quit home loans in next 6 months

Tue, 07 Dec 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Almost one million Aussie home loan holders intend to leave their current lender within the next six months, new research suggests.

Home loans customers to benefit from interest rate hold

Mon, 06 Dec 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Australian consumers looking to compare home loans and other financial products could be among those to benefit from a recent announcement from the Reserve Bank.

Borrowers urged to compare home loans

Sun, 05 Dec 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Australian borrowers could save $2,500 a year by comparing home loans and switching lenders.

Will consumers compare savings accounts and home loans as banks blow customer satisfaction?

Sun, 05 Dec 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Banks operating in Australia have "blown it" after finally seeing their customer satisfaction levels increase, it has been reported.

Home loan customers could be encouraged by new-build statistics

Thu, 02 Dec 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Potential home loan customers in Australia could be among those encouraged by the number of property developments being given the green light across the country.

Home loan stress forces couple to sell up

Wed, 01 Dec 2010 13:00:00 GMT

A South Australian couple have explained how escalating mortgage problems forced them to sell their home in an attempt to clear debts.

Mortgage Choice: Aussies most concerned by living costs

Tue, 30 Nov 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Australians are particularly concerned about rising living costs over the coming year, new research has found.

Home loan competition is sufficient, say banks

Mon, 29 Nov 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Australia's major banks were due to lodge submissions to a Senate inquiry today (November 30th) in defence of the current level of competition in the home loan market.

Rate hike hits new home sales

Sun, 28 Nov 2010 13:00:00 GMT

New home sales data points to a renewed decline in residential construction in Australia, the Housing Industry Association (HIA) has said.

Home loan customers feel 'trapped' by banks

Thu, 25 Nov 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Customers of the big four Aussie banks currently feel "trapped" and unable to switch to a new institution, an industry expert has said.

Melbourne housing now country's least affordable

Wed, 24 Nov 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Melbourne has been named as the country's least affordable city for potential home buyers.

Mortgage rate pain hits the self-employed

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 13:00:00 GMT

The proportion of 'low-doc' home loan borrowers falling behind with their repayments has hit a record high.

Home loan costs hit Christmas plans

Mon, 22 Nov 2010 13:00:00 GMT

The majority of Australian homeowners are pondering Christmas cutbacks this year due to the impact of rising interest rates, new research shows.

Reverse mortgage uptake falling ahead of new rules

Sun, 21 Nov 2010 13:00:00 GMT

The number of Aussie homeowners choosing to take up a reverse mortgage could fall further from next year as new federal regulations come into force.

ABA rejects claims of home loan gouging

Thu, 18 Nov 2010 13:00:00 GMT

The Australian Bankers' Association (ABA) has denied media reports claiming that bank margins have increased.

Exit fee clampdown could hurt competition, says expert

Wed, 17 Nov 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Government plans to clamp down on home loan exit fees will make it harder for smaller lenders to compete, it has been suggested.

Sydney property lures cash-rich foreign buyers

Tue, 16 Nov 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Cash-rich foreign buyers are snapping up premium homes across some of Sydney's most desirable areas, it has been reported.

Non-bank lenders report surge in home loan inquiries

Mon, 15 Nov 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Australia's leading non-bank lenders have reported a three-fold increase in home loan inquiries after all of the "big four" banks opted to lift interest rates above the Reserve Bank's official hike earlier this month.

Greens aim to stop bank rate hikes

Sun, 14 Nov 2010 13:00:00 GMT

The Australian Greens have announced proposals to stop the banks from lifting home loan rates above the Reserve Bank's (RBA) cycle.

Westpac and NAB also hike rates above RBA increase

Thu, 11 Nov 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Westpac and NAB have become the latest banks to raise interest rates on home loans by more than the Reserve Bank's (RBA) 0.25 per cent increase announced last week.

Mozo launches Xmas Rate Rise Poll

Wed, 10 Nov 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Financial comparison website mozo.com.au has launched a new Xmas Rate Rise Poll to discover how the recent interest rate hikes will affect Aussie spending this Christmas.

Aussies keen to refinance home loans

Wed, 10 Nov 2010 13:00:00 GMT

There has recently been a sharp rise in the number of Australian property owners seeking to compare home loans and consider refinancing, it has been observed.

Home loans have stabilised, report shows

Tue, 09 Nov 2010 13:00:00 GMT

The home loan market has stabilised due to improved home lending in September, according to a new report.

Will exit fee axe rob consumers of choice?

Tue, 09 Nov 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Australians looking to compare home loans could be robbed of choice if plans to put an end to exit fees go ahead, it has been claimed.

ANZ to increase rates by 39 points

Tue, 09 Nov 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Australian property investors could be encouraged to compare home loans after one lender announced its rate increase.

Homeowners urged to haggle for a better deal

Mon, 08 Nov 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Australian property investors looking for better home loan rates could be among those encouraged by the recent comments of one industry expert.

Will ING deal inspire consumers to compare home loans?

Sun, 07 Nov 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Australian consumers could be encouraged to compare home loans following the launch of a new switching incentive by one of the nation's smaller banks.

Is this the end of exit fees?

Sun, 07 Nov 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Australian mortgage customers could be inspired to compare home loans safe in the knowledge that they will be able to switch banks after one expert indicated that exit fees could soon be a thing of the past.

Commonwealth Bank chief defends interest rate rise

Sun, 07 Nov 2010 13:00:00 GMT

The recent interest rate hike announced by the Commonwealth Bank will be good for the economy.

Queensland homes repossessed as loan defaults soar

Thu, 04 Nov 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Queensland saw a record number of home and business repossessions in August this year because of rising mortgage defaults.

Canstar: Do the sums and consider switching home loans

Wed, 03 Nov 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Borrowers should "do the sums" on their home loan options and change banks if the repayment savings exceed the cost of exit and application fees, Canstar Cannex financial analyst Mitchell Watson has said.

Commonwealth rate move 'to encourage other hikes'

Tue, 02 Nov 2010 13:00:00 GMT

The Commonwealth Bank's (CBA) decision yesterday (November 2nd) to raise interest rates by nearly twice as much as the Reserve Bank (RBA) could prompt other major lenders to do the same, it has been suggested.

CBA raises rates by almost double the RBA

Mon, 01 Nov 2010 13:00:00 GMT

The Commonwealth Bank (CBA) has sparked outrage by raising its standard mortgage rate by almost double the Reserve Bank's (RBA) official increase.

Banks 'willing to cut rates' for clever home loan shoppers

Sun, 31 Oct 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Borrowers can secure better mortgage deals by choosing to compare home loans and pressuring banks with rival offers, one experiment has suggested.

Westpac: Housing shortage will get worse

Thu, 28 Oct 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Australia's severe housing shortage will only get worse in the coming years, Westpac has predicted.

Housing market slows as prices fall

Wed, 27 Oct 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Australia's housing market is showing signs of a major slowdown after new research revealed a national price growth of only 0.1 per cent for the September quarter.

Estate agents face crackdown on 'misleading' price adverts

Tue, 26 Oct 2010 13:00:00 GMT

The Victorian state government has announced plans to clamp down on real estate agents who "dupe" house hunters with misleading price valuations.

Mortgage pressures rise in Brisbane and Melbourne

Mon, 25 Oct 2010 13:00:00 GMT

First-time home buyers in Brisbane and Melbourne now face mortgage pressures on a par with Sydney, new research shows.

Home clearance rates fall amid mortgage concerns

Sun, 24 Oct 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Clearance rates at Australian property auctions are falling amid rising concerns about impending interest rate hikes, it has been suggested.

Fairfield named as worst place for mortgage defaults

Thu, 21 Oct 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Fairfield has been named as Australia's worst area for mortgage defaults.

Hockey: Punish banks for raising home loan rates above RBA

Wed, 20 Oct 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Opposition treasury spokesman Joe Hockey has called on the government to take action against banks which continually raise home loan rates above the Reserve Bank's (RBA) cycle.

Banks 'seek safety in numbers' on home loan hikes

Tue, 19 Oct 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Australia's major banks may be seeking to minimise their potential PR problems by collectively declaring the need for home loan rate rises, it has been suggested.

Fix home loans to avoid coming rate hikes, says Onyx

Mon, 18 Oct 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Current and prospective mortgage holders should act fast to avoid impending rate hikes by locking into a fixed rate home loan for the next twelve months, property services firm Onyx has said.

Rising dollar hits Aussie property market

Sun, 17 Oct 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Australia's rising dollar is deterring overseas buyers from investing in the country's property market, an industry expert has said.

Pressure on home loan rates 'to continue for some time'

Thu, 14 Oct 2010 13:00:00 GMT

The pressure on the major banks to keep pushing home loan rates higher "is going to be there for some time", a commentator has said.

CBA adds to clamour for independent rate hikes

Wed, 13 Oct 2010 13:00:00 GMT

CBA has become the latest major Australian bank to suggest that interest rates will have to rise independently of the Reserve Bank's (RBA) cycle.

Mortgage stress forces major cutbacks

Wed, 13 Oct 2010 13:00:00 GMT

A record number of Australians are packing their own lunches, cancelling holidays and buying in bulk as the impact of rising mortgage repayments continues to hamper spending, new research shows.

House price growth 'to continue for next three years'

Tue, 12 Oct 2010 13:00:00 GMT

House prices are expected to rise over the next three years, defying predictions of an Australian property crash, new research has found.

Westpac warns of home loan rate rises

Mon, 11 Oct 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Westpac boss Gail Kelly has warned that home loan rates will have to go up if banks are to meet their high funding costs.

Sydney has 'world's worst' mortgage pain

Sun, 10 Oct 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Sydney homeowners spend more on their mortgages than residents of any other major global city, it has been revealed.

Household debt seems 'quite high', says RBA

Wed, 06 Oct 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Rising household debt is preventing some people from paying off their mortgages ahead of time, a Reserve Bank (RBA) official has said.

Banks could use RBA hike as 'cover' for mortgage rises

Sun, 03 Oct 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Australia's banks may use the next increase of the official cash rate as "a cover" for lifting home loan rates, a market analyst has said.

Home prices fall for third consecutive month

Wed, 29 Sep 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Home prices fell for the third month running in August 2010, new research has found.

Sydney properties set for 100% price increase

Mon, 27 Sep 2010 14:00:00 GMT

People looking for home loans in order to purchase a property in Sydney could be inspired to act fast after predictions that prices in the city are expected to double.

Home loan customers should make a checklist, expert advises

Mon, 27 Sep 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Potential property purchasers looking to acquire a home loan in Australia could be among those to benefit from recent advice offered by one expert.

Banks willing to offer better home loan deals

Thu, 23 Sep 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Homeowners have a good chance of getting a better deal on their home loans by simply asking for it, new research suggests.

Aussies expect huge savings when switching home loans

Tue, 21 Sep 2010 14:00:00 GMT

A significant proportion of Australian homeowners would not consider switching lenders even if they could save $1,000 on their home loan, new research shows.

Ageing baby boomers to cause slowdown in house prices

Sun, 19 Sep 2010 14:00:00 GMT

The next generation of Australian home buyers will see house prices rise at a much slower rate than that seen by the previous generation of "baby boomers", new research suggests.

Home loan rates to hit 9% by 2013, says expert

Tue, 14 Sep 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Mortgage rates will soar to nine per cent and above over the next three years, a leading property expert has predicted.

Mortgage House to offer 105% home loan

Sun, 12 Sep 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Non-bank lender Mortgage House has confirmed that from next month it will offer a home loan equivalent to 105 per cent of a property's value.

Compare home loans as circumstances change, says expert

Sun, 12 Sep 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Australian property owners should look to compare home loans and refinance at some point in their lives, an expert has said.

Commonwealth could be first to lift home loan rates

Wed, 08 Sep 2010 14:00:00 GMT

The Commonwealth Bank (CBA) is likely to become the first to hike home loan rates above the Reserve Bank cycle, it has been claimed.

Rents rise by double rate of inflation

Mon, 06 Sep 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Rental costs across Australia's capital cities have risen at more than double the rate of inflation over the past five years, new research shows.

Downsizing homes 'may not be the best option'

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Australian homeowners looking to cash in on rising property prices by downsizing may find that the financial gain is not worth it, it has been suggested.

Yellow Brick Road removes savings requirement for first-time home buyers

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 14:00:00 GMT

An up-and-coming non-bank lender is aiming to offer first-time home buyers a more competitive option by removing the need for home loan applicants to show proof of savings.

Property prices 'skyrocket' in Oaklands Park

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Potential homeowners in Australia could be tempted to compare a number of home loans in order to invest in a property in Oaklands Park after impressive prices rises in the last five years.

Potential home buyers told to consider value

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 14:00:00 GMT

People comparing home loan offers in Australia could be among those to heed the advice of one expert when looking at potential properties.

House to be biggest purchase in Australia this year, report says

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 14:00:00 GMT

People looking to compare the Australian home loan market could be among those interested in the findings of a recent report.

Real estate agents adopt new tricks

Sun, 22 Aug 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Home loan customers in Australia could be among those to notice a new wave of tricks being employed by real estate agents.

Rental thefts on the rise

Sun, 22 Aug 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Australian landlords could be encouraged to compare their mortgage deals following the publication of a new report.

Currency retreat is 'temporary blip'

Sun, 22 Aug 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Australians looking to acquire home loans in the near future could be among those to be encouraged by recent claims that country's currency retreat is just a "temporary blip"

Housing affordability plummeted 31.6% in June

Wed, 18 Aug 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Housing affordability fell by a massive 31.6 per cent nationwide in the year to June 2010, new research shows.

Home buyers urged to hold off until spring

Mon, 16 Aug 2010 14:00:00 GMT

New home buyers can benefit from sliding prices by waiting until spring to enter the property market, an expert has said.

Expert: Australia has a 'two-speed' property market

Thu, 12 Aug 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Australia currently has a two-speed property market whereby demand remains strong in Melbourne and Sydney but is faltering everywhere else, a real estate specialist has said.

Commonwealth Bank could be set to hike rates

Thu, 12 Aug 2010 14:00:00 GMT

The Commonwealth Bank (CBA) could become the first to enforce an interest rate rise independent of the Reserve Bank, it has been speculated.

New federal laws 'will make it easier to compare home loans'

Tue, 10 Aug 2010 14:00:00 GMT

The recent creation of new federal consumer protection legislation will make it easier for Australians to compare home loans, an expert has predicted.

Home loan commitments fell sharply in June

Sun, 08 Aug 2010 14:00:00 GMT

The number of home loan commitments fell considerably in June, suggesting the housing recovery is coming to an end.

House prices in Aussie capitals rise 18% this year

Tue, 03 Aug 2010 14:00:00 GMT

House prices in Australia's major capital cities have risen by 18.4 per cent over the last year, new figures show.

RP Data: House prices fall for first time in 17 months

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Australia's spate of interest rate rises over the last year appears to have taken its toll on the property market after house prices fell for the first time in 17 months, according to new figures.

Poorer suburbs see highest property price rises

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 14:00:00 GMT

House prices in Australia's less affluent suburbs outperformed the luxury end of the market in the June quarter of 2010, new data has revealed.

Home loan applications rise 2.3% in June quarter

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Home loan applications rose 2.3 per cent in the June quarter compared to the first quarter of this year, new figures show.

Home loan fraudsters target migrants and the elderly

Sun, 25 Jul 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Home loan fraud is on the rise, with scammers targeting recent migrants and the elderly, it has been revealed.

NAB undercharges UK home loan customers

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 14:00:00 GMT

An administrative blunder has seen National Australia Bank undercharge its 18,000 English and Scottish borrowers $32.8 million in interest on their home loans over the past four years.

Properties in mining towns tipped as top investment opportunities

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 14:00:00 GMT

A new report released by RP Data has noted that, with the mining industry and the federal government having reached an amicable agreement over super-profits taxes, the sector could be set to expand over the next couple of years.

Consumer confidence in Australian property on the rise, report notes

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 14:00:00 GMT

The latest 'Time to Buy a Dwelling' index, which has once again been published alongside the Westpac-Melbourne Institute Consumer House Price Expectations Index, suggests that, despite uncertainly still clouding the national economy, growing numbers of people are confident that now, or in the near future, represents a good time to make a home loan comparison.

Australia may have 'world's most overpriced property'

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Australian property is the most overvalued in the world, new research has claimed.

Banks 'may hike rates outside of RBA cycle'

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Australia's major banks may soon increase home loan rates independently of the Reserve Bank in order to cover higher funding costs, an expert has said.

Aussies 'should be creative' to overcome housing affordability problems

Wed, 07 Jul 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Prospective property buyers should rethink their options and develop creative strategies in order to overcome Australia's current housing affordability problems, it has been argued.

First-home buyers need 4.5 years to save for deposit

Mon, 05 Jul 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Australian first-home buyers now take an average of 4.5 years to save up for a 20 per cent house deposit, new research shows.

Buyers camp out to secure 'hot property' in Canberra

Sun, 04 Jul 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Prospective homebuyers have been camping out in Canberra and its suburbs in order to secure a property in the area's thriving housing market, it has been reported.

Compare home loans after ASIC measures, says expert

Thu, 01 Jul 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Australian homeowners should start thinking about refinancing their mortgages now that the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has been granted powers to clamp down on home loan exit fees, it has been suggested.

New home sales plunge 6.4% in May

Wed, 30 Jun 2010 14:00:00 GMT

New home sales fell at the sharpest rate for nearly two years in May, new figures show.

House price growth continues to cool

Tue, 29 Jun 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Australia's housing market continued to cool last month as capital cities recorded their second consecutive month of single-digit growth.

Australia records world's fourth-largest property price increase

Sun, 27 Jun 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Australia recorded the fourth-largest property price increase during the year to March 2010, new research shows.

Big banks may end discounts on mortgage rates

Sun, 27 Jun 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Australia's major banks may put an end to discounts on mortgage rates as they look to recover higher wholesale funding costs, it has been suggested.

Lenders tighten home loan stress tests

Thu, 24 Jun 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Australian lenders are increasing the size of mortgage rate rises that potential borrowers must be able to handle, making it harder for many to secure home loans.

Compare home loans to find good fixed rates, expert says

Wed, 23 Jun 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Australians should compare home loans in search of strong fixed-rate offers, an expert has said.

Million-dollar homes still selling well

Mon, 21 Jun 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Homes with $1 million-plus price tags are selling at a rate of one every two hours, an expert has observed.

ASIC to clamp down on home loan exit fees

Thu, 17 Jun 2010 14:00:00 GMT

The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has been granted powers to crack down on home loan exit fees, it has been revealed.

Australia 'has an unmistakable housing bubble'

Wed, 16 Jun 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Australia is in the midst of a housing bubble that may soon be impossible to sustain, an expert has claimed.

RAMS prompts 'home loan war' by slashing rates

Tue, 15 Jun 2010 14:00:00 GMT

RAMS Home Loans looks set to spark a pricing war with other mortgage suppliers by cutting rates to their lowest level on the market.

Single Aussies struggle to get on property ladder

Mon, 14 Jun 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Single people are struggling to secure a property in Australia's highly competitive housing market, it has been revealed.

Real estate agents use hypnosis to close property deals

Sun, 13 Jun 2010 14:00:00 GMT

A hypnosis expert is training real estate agents in the art of persuasion.

Charges for loan switching rise as banks net $5bn in fees

Sun, 13 Jun 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Australian consumers were charged $5 billion in bank fees last year as charges for switching home loans from fixed to variable rates went up, it has been revealed.

Property investors warned about 'no go zones'

Wed, 09 Jun 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Australian investors must be aware of hidden factors that can damage the future value of a property, analyst Terry Ryder has said.

Home stamp duty cut to zero in NSW

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 14:00:00 GMT

The New South Wales government has announced plans to introduce Australia's first zero per cent stamp duty.

First home buyers still looking for 100% mortgages

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Many prospective first home buyers are still struggling to find the high loan-to-value ratio (LVR) home loans they need to secure a property, it has been reported.

Perth has nation's least affordable homes

Thu, 03 Jun 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Perth has the lowest proportion of affordable homes in Australia, new research has revealed.

Family offers home for free on giveaway website

Wed, 02 Jun 2010 14:00:00 GMT

A family is looking to save their former home from the wrecking ball by giving it away for free.

House price growth slows in April

Mon, 31 May 2010 14:00:00 GMT

House price growth slowed considerably in April, suggesting a change in market conditions as recent interest rate hikes took their toll.

Interest rate rise causing missed repayments

Thu, 27 May 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Recent interest rate rises are causing more borrowers to miss mortgage repayments, according to Moody's Investors Service.

'New cities' to ease housing pressure in Queensland

Wed, 26 May 2010 14:00:00 GMT

The Queensland Government has set out plans to build three brand new cities in the state's southeast as a way of easing population pressure.

Mortgage stress forces the rich to rent appliances

Mon, 24 May 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Australia's rising interest rates are forcing more families on an annual income of $100,000 to rent home appliances as they struggle to keep up with mortgage repayments.

ING Direct to launch interest-only home loan

Sun, 23 May 2010 14:00:00 GMT

ING Direct, Australia's fifth largest lender, is preparing to offer "never-ending" mortgages that could solve the country's housing affordability problems.

Banks urged to help renters become buyers

Thu, 20 May 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Banks should help more first time buyers get into the property market by allowing people applying for a home loan to use rental payments as evidence of genuine savings, Loan Market has said.

'Fine dodgers' face home repossession

Tue, 18 May 2010 14:00:00 GMT

The Queensland government has sent letters to 11 individuals and four businesses warning of property seizure if they do not repay outstanding fines that total $257,000, it has been revealed.

RBA warns home buyers against speculation

Tue, 18 May 2010 14:00:00 GMT

An expert at the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has warned prospective home buyers about rising mortgage debt levels and the dangers of speculative market activity.

Sydney property auctions witness buyer slowdown

Sun, 16 May 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Australia's rising interest rates and house prices appear to be causing a slowdown in Sydney's recently buoyant property auction market, according to new figures.

NSW homebuyers hit with new property tax

Wed, 12 May 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Homebuyers in New South Wales are to be hit with a new property tax that could significantly hike up the price of a standard house.

Home loan demand continues to fall

Tue, 11 May 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Demand for home loans fell for the sixth consecutive month in March, new figures show.

Land tax relief to reduce financial burden on South Australian homeowners

Mon, 10 May 2010 14:00:00 GMT

A new tax relief package is being introduced into the South Australian State Parliament with the aim cutting costs for homeowners.

House prices to fall as rate rises take their toll

Sun, 09 May 2010 14:00:00 GMT

The housing market looks set to finally slow down as consecutive interest rate rises in recent months take their toll.

One home is being repossessed every day in Victoria

Thu, 06 May 2010 14:00:00 GMT

An average of one home per day is being repossessed in Victoria at present, new figures show.

Mortgage stress affecting nearly 40% of recent buyers

Tue, 04 May 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Australia's rapidly rising mortgage rates mean that a growing number of recent first-home buyers are suffering with debt stress or could even lose their homes, new research has found.

Lenders raise home loan rates after RBA hike

Mon, 03 May 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Some of Australia's major lenders have increased interest rates on their mortgages following the Reserve Bank's (RBA) latest hike.

Home loan approvals to first home buyers fall by 40%

Thu, 29 Apr 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Home loan approvals to first home buyers at a leading mortgage broker were down 40 per cent during the first three months of 2010.

House price growth finally slows

Wed, 28 Apr 2010 14:00:00 GMT

The pace of Australia's house price growth finally slowed last month, it has been revealed.

National housing supply gap to rise by 50,000 by June 2011

Tue, 27 Apr 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Australia's continuing housing shortage means that by June 30th next year, the national housing supply gap will have increased by a further 50,000, a study has found.

Foreigners required to return property upon leaving Australia

Mon, 26 Apr 2010 14:00:00 GMT

The federal government will require temporary residents and foreign students to sell their houses when they leave the country as it looks to combat Australia's growing housing shortage.

Bank 'spying' will make it harder to secure home loans

Sun, 25 Apr 2010 14:00:00 GMT

New rules that will allow Australia's banks and brokers to analyse the spending habits of borrowers will make it even harder for customers to secure credit facilities like home loans, it has been suggested.

Aussies 'should increase their mortgage and cut up credit cards'

Thu, 22 Apr 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Debt-burdened Australians should refinance their mortgage rather than run up high bills on credit cards, a commentator has argued.

First home buyers 'are particularly sensitive to rising rates'

Thu, 22 Apr 2010 14:00:00 GMT

First home buyers are particularly vulnerable to mortgage stress because of rising interest rates and bigger loans, an expert has suggested.

'Prudent' RBA likely to raise rates again next month

Tue, 20 Apr 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Speculation is growing that the Reserve Bank (RBA) will raise interest rates again next month.

The banks are becoming 'home loan shy'

Tue, 20 Apr 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Australia's major banks are looking to "ration" their mortgage money and are instead focusing on business lending, it has been suggested.

Rising land prices threaten new home building

Mon, 19 Apr 2010 14:00:00 GMT

The average price of a block of land rose by a massive 14 per cent last year to reach $185,222, new figures show.

Banks 'are more selective in their mortgage lending'

Sun, 18 Apr 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Australia's banks and financial institutions have developed tighter lending criteria which has made it harder for customers to compare home loans and secure a good deal, it has been suggested.

First home buyers are spending 45% of income on mortgage

Sun, 18 Apr 2010 14:00:00 GMT

First home buyers are now putting aside an average of between 40 and 45 per cent of their income for mortgage repayments, an expert has observed.

Victoria still hampered by global recession

Sun, 18 Apr 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Victoria is still being hindered by the recent global financial crisis, it has been claimed.

Auctions are up, but home loan demand keeps falling

Tue, 13 Apr 2010 14:00:00 GMT

There is a 'paradox' in the current property market, with house auctions hitting record levels while home loan demand continues to fall, a commentator has observed.

Home loan rates 'will hit 10% by 2012'

Mon, 12 Apr 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Home loan rates will rise to a whopping ten per cent over the next two years, experts have predicted.

Home loan demand declines for fifth consecutive month

Sun, 11 Apr 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Mortgage demand fell for the fifth consecutive month in February as rising interest rates and tighter lending conditions discouraged potential borrowers.

Home loan rates rising close to boom levels

Thu, 08 Apr 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Australia's major banks are continuing to raise their home loan rates above the official cash rate, suggesting that mortgage costs could soon reach the peaks seen during the economic boom.

More Australians switching to smaller mortgage lenders

Wed, 07 Apr 2010 14:00:00 GMT

A growing number of Australians are abandoning the major banks and refinancing their mortgages with smaller, regional lenders, a major broker has said.

Housing affordability slumps further following rate hike

Tue, 06 Apr 2010 14:00:00 GMT

The Reserve Bank's decision to raise the official cash rate to 4.25 per cent yesterday has made it even harder for Australians to get on the property ladder – and that trend is likely to worsen over the year, a commentator has said.

Housing finance has grown despite global financial crisis, RBA says

Tue, 30 Mar 2010 13:00:00 GMT

The global financial crisis has not hindered the flow of housing credit to customers, the Reserve Bank (RBA) has said.

Home sales boom at record auctions

Mon, 29 Mar 2010 13:00:00 GMT

A record number of homes were listed and sold at Australian city auctions during the weekend.

Australian population growth will continue to outstrip housing supply

Sun, 28 Mar 2010 13:00:00 GMT

The gap between housing demand and supply is worse than ever, new official forecasts show.

Brokers see rising demand for 'prestige' home loans

Wed, 24 Mar 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Australians are becoming increasingly active at the top end of the property market, resulting in a surge in 'prestige' home loans in excess of $800,000.

Westpac 'may keep raising rates'

Tue, 23 Mar 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Westpac's strong position in the home loan market could mean it will continue to raise rates by more than the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA), it has been suggested.

Credit Union Australia and AMP slash home loan rates

Tue, 23 Mar 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Credit Union Australia and AMP Bank have slashed their variable mortgage interest rates in a move that could encourage Australians to compare home loans.

Housing affordability set to plummet further in Sydney

Mon, 22 Mar 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Home prices in Sydney are set to double over the coming decade, making it increasingly difficult for potential first home buyers to enter the property market.

'The days of 100% home loans are over'

Sun, 21 Mar 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Banks are refusing to offer no-deposit home loans despite a surge in demand from borrowers, it has been reported.

Western Australia lagging behind in new home construction

Tue, 16 Mar 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Western Australia is falling behind the rest of the country in terms of the number of new homes being built, it has been revealed.

RAMS to offer real estate data to home loan customers

Mon, 15 Mar 2010 13:00:00 GMT

RAMS Home Loans has joined forces with real estate data provider Residex to offer property investors access to residential sales information.

Australia's banking sector is 'still competitive'

Sun, 14 Mar 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Australia's financial system remains competitive despite the continued growth of the big four players, it has been claimed.

Home loan approvals fall in January

Tue, 09 Mar 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Australian home loan approvals fell in January following a series of interest rate hikes.

More than one-third of home loans used for investment purposes

Mon, 08 Mar 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Property investors are making up a growing proportion of home loan applicants and recipients.

Gold Coast homeowners are looking to upgrade

Mon, 08 Mar 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Homeowners on the Gold Coast are looking to upgrade their properties despite rising interest rates, according to the mortgage broker Loan Market.

Australians must work longer to pay off their home loans

Sun, 07 Mar 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Aussies must work almost three times harder to pay off the average family mortgage than they did 50 years ago.

First homebuyers may give up if rates keep rising

Wed, 03 Mar 2010 13:00:00 GMT

More than one quarter of Australians looking to buy their first home in the next two years will give up on the purchase if interest rates rise by another two percentage points, a new survey has shown.

Interest rate rise 'is more bad news for first home buyers'

Tue, 02 Mar 2010 13:00:00 GMT

The Reserve Bank's decision to raise the official cash rate this week will make it even more difficult for first home buyers to enter the property market, it has been claimed.

RBA raises official cash rate

Mon, 01 Mar 2010 13:00:00 GMT

The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has raised the official cash rate for the first time this year.

'Home loan exit fees are on the rise'

Mon, 01 Mar 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Homeowners who try to refinance their mortgage risk incurring a rising number of exit fees, a commentator has said.

ANZ records strong profits on the back of mortgage growth

Thu, 25 Feb 2010 13:00:00 GMT

ANZ, Australia's third largest bank, has recorded a 16 per cent surge in the company's underlying earnings for the first four months of the 2010 financial year.

Co-ownership 'makes property buying more affordable'

Thu, 25 Feb 2010 13:00:00 GMT

A growing number of Australians are choosing to share the costs of home ownership by buying property with their friends and family, it has been revealed.

Commonwealth to support Storm investors with cut-price home loans

Wed, 24 Feb 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Commonwealth Bank is set to offer cash payouts and home loan cuts to clients of Storm, the recently collapsed Queensland investment broker.

NAB may introduce risk-based home loan pricing

Wed, 24 Feb 2010 13:00:00 GMT

National Australia Bank is considering plans to begin pricing residential mortgages according to the risk profile of individual borrowers.

Aussie Home Loans is one of country's fastest growing franchises

Wed, 24 Feb 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Aussie Home Loans has been named as one of Australia's top ten fastest growing franchises in BRW Magazine's annual Fast Franchises list.

The government 'is supporting competition in the home loan market'

Tue, 23 Feb 2010 13:00:00 GMT

The federal government is taking steps to promote competition in the home loan market, treasurer Wayne Swan has said.

Home loan offset and redraw facilities 'can save borrowers money'

Tue, 23 Feb 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Mortgage holders can save money by investing their spare cash in a home loan offset or redraw facility it has been claimed.

Australian home affordability takes a nose dive

Tue, 23 Feb 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Housing affordability fell dramatically at the end of 2009, it has been revealed.

House prices surge in Melbourne

Tue, 23 Feb 2010 13:00:00 GMT

House prices in Melbourne's outer suburbs rose dramatically last year and will continue to increase this year, it has been claimed.

New credit reports 'will capture more bad behaviour'

Mon, 22 Feb 2010 13:00:00 GMT

New laws to be brought in next year will mean that credit reports record more "bad behaviour" like late payments on credit cards or utility bills, a commentator has said.

Home loan debt is on the rise

Sun, 21 Feb 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Homebuyers are in nearly twice as much debt as they were five years ago, new figures show.

Potential first home buyers 'should act now'

Thu, 18 Feb 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Australians who are considering buying their first home should do it now, an expert has said.

Huge rise in first home buying during 2009

Wed, 17 Feb 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Last year saw a record number of Australians enter the property market for the first time.

Homebuyers 'will struggle to get a 100% mortgage'

Wed, 17 Feb 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Bank customers will struggle to secure 100 per cent home loans, an industry group has said.

Westpac records strong profits despite high home loan rates

Wed, 17 Feb 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Westpac has announced high profit figures for the end of last year, proving that it is still a popular choice among Australians.

Home loan repayments 'are set to grow'

Wed, 17 Feb 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Monthly repayments on an average home loan will rise by between $250 and $500 by the end of the year, an expert has predicted.

Reserve Bank 'is biding its time'

Mon, 15 Feb 2010 13:00:00 GMT

The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) decided to fix interest rates this month so that it could judge the impact of earlier rate rises on the economy, it has been revealed.

Home loan competition growing as AMP cuts rates

Mon, 15 Feb 2010 13:00:00 GMT

AMP, a second-tier mortgage lender, has cut interest rates in a sign that borrowers are benefiting from a return to competition in the mortgage market.

Home loan costs growing faster than income

Sun, 14 Feb 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Mortgage sizes are significantly outgrowing property price rises and wage increases.

Home loan credit rules set to tighten

Thu, 11 Feb 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Credit underwriting standards for home loans will tighten further this year, a study has suggested.

New funds for Western Australian low-cost home loans

Wed, 10 Feb 2010 13:00:00 GMT

The Western Australian state government has injected an extra $25 million into its low-cost home loan scheme as part of a major policy overhaul.

Home loan approvals fall further

Tue, 09 Feb 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Home loan approvals fell for a third consecutive month in December, reflecting dwindling confidence among potential new home buyers.

Australians concerned over interest rate rises

Tue, 09 Feb 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Consumer confidence has fallen this month, reflecting fears about official interest rate rises.

Westpac still a leader in home loan market

Mon, 08 Feb 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Westpac grabbed a huge share of the mortgage market in December despite its unpopular decision to raise interest rates by more than the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA).

Mortgage rate rises 'will be less than feared'

Sun, 07 Feb 2010 13:00:00 GMT

The Reserve Bank of Australia's (RBA) recent decision to maintain official interest rates at their previous level has meant that home loan rates will be lower than feared this year, a commentator has observed

House prices 'boosted by nicer place names'

Sun, 07 Feb 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Suburbs with attractive sounding names attract more interest from homebuyers than their plainer sounding neighbours, a report has found.

Major banks under scrutiny over interest rates

Thu, 04 Feb 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Australia's competition regulator is keeping a close watch on the major banks after NAB announced its home loan pricing intentions ahead of the Reserve Bank (RBA) decision this week.

Home loan demand falls in January

Thu, 04 Feb 2010 13:00:00 GMT

The demand for home loans fell last month as a result of three official interest rate rises and the removal of the federal government's first homeowners' grant, a mortgage broker has found.

Australians confess to $1 billion vices

Wed, 03 Feb 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Financial comparison website Mozo.com.au has found that Australians are spending $1 billion on vices — and the figure is rising.

Independent mortgage firms to challenge big banks

Wed, 03 Feb 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Independent home loan suppliers could soon challenge the supremacy of Australia's major lenders, it has been claimed.

Could RHG re-enter the Aussie mortgage market?

Wed, 03 Feb 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Mortgage lender RHG Home Loans could re-enter the Australian market after settling court actions against it, it has been claimed.

Rate hikes could 'increase numbers defaulting'

Tue, 02 Feb 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Rising interest rates would cause a sharp increase in the number of Australian homeowners defaulting on their mortgages, it has been claimed.

Resimac steps up to offer discount home loans

Tue, 02 Feb 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Resimac, the wholesale mortgage funder, is set to launch a new retail lending business for home borrowers.

Aussie Home Loans 'poised to dominate non bank home lending'

Tue, 02 Feb 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Aussie Home Loans is poised to achieve dominance in the non bank mortgage lending sector, executive chairman John Symond has said.

Mortgage costs could rise despite rate fix

Mon, 01 Feb 2010 13:00:00 GMT

The surprise move by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) to fix the country's cash rate may not stop mortgage holders being subjected to increasing interest rates.

Aussie to get involved in mortgage market consolidation

Sun, 31 Jan 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Aussie boss John Symond is hoping to consolidate his firm's broker supply chain and maintain his company's position as the leading independent mortgage broker in Australia.

New home sales hit by rising rates

Sun, 31 Jan 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Rising interest rates and a fall in government assistance has led to a drop in the sales of new homes, an industry body has said.

Property investor numbers rise in Australia

Sun, 31 Jan 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Property investors in Australia are back despite the recent increases to the country's base interest rate, it has been claimed.

Home loan growth likely to slow

Thu, 28 Jan 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Home loan applications are likely to fall following a surge last year led by first home buyers, new figures show.

'Aussies struggle with home loan repayments'

Thu, 28 Jan 2010 13:00:00 GMT

An increasing number of Australians are finding it difficult to keep up with their home loan repayments, it has been claimed.

Australia home building 'won't meet demand'

Thu, 28 Jan 2010 13:00:00 GMT

House building in Australia is not keeping pace with demand – which means house prices could continue to rise.

Australian city property is among most unaffordable

Wed, 27 Jan 2010 13:00:00 GMT

A number of Australian cities have been listed in the International Housing Affordability Survey.

Upgraders push house prices to all-time high

Wed, 27 Jan 2010 13:00:00 GMT

House prices have reached a record high in most Aussie capitals as a result of buying in more expensive suburbs.

Borrowers reluctant to opt for fixed-rate home loans

Wed, 27 Jan 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Demand for fixed-rate home loans has dropped to a record low, a new report has found.

Inflation rise is bad news for home loan rates

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 13:00:00 GMT

New figures have revealed that inflation rose at the end of last year, making a fourth consecutive interest rate hike next month more likely.

Banks 'may not pass on full interest rate increase'

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Australia's banks may not pass on the full Reserve Bank interest rate rises later this year as they seek to attract new customers.

Smaller home loan providers return to the market

Mon, 25 Jan 2010 13:00:00 GMT

A range of second-tier lenders are returning to the home loan market as the global financial crisis begins to reside.

Home loan rate set to rise, experts warn

Sun, 24 Jan 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Economists are predicting that a fourth consecutive interest rate rise is on its way despite improving economic conditions.

Aussies 'should be wary of home loan scams'

Wed, 20 Jan 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Home loan buyers should be aware of "sham arrangements" that promise to help customers repay their mortgages sooner and claim tax deductions to which they are not entitled, an expert has said.

Westpac raises deposits for first home loans

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Westpac will require first-home buyers to pay at least $37,500 as a deposit for an average home loan under new lending policy changes.

Home loan insurance 'important as interest rates rise'

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Mortgage holders worried about defaulting on their repayments should consider purchasing home loan insurance, an expert has said.

Westpac reduces home loan purchase options

Mon, 18 Jan 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Westpac has been forced to shut down part of its RAMS home loans business, reducing the availability of its mortgages.

Wealthy migrants force up property prices

Sun, 17 Jan 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Aussies are struggling to afford property because highly paid migrants are forcing up prices, a new report has found.

Victoria realtors call for first home buyers boost

Thu, 14 Jan 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Real estate industry leaders in Victoria have asked the state government to double its first home buyers' grant.

First-home buying falls as government help dries up

Wed, 13 Jan 2010 13:00:00 GMT

The number of first-time home buyers is falling after the government phased out incentive measures.

Home loan demand falls in the wake of rising rates

Tue, 12 Jan 2010 13:00:00 GMT

The number of home loans issued by Australian banks is falling as a result of rising interest rates and the reduction of government stimulus measures.

Strong Christmas sales may provoke another rate rise

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Unexpectedly high Christmas retail figures may encourage the Reserve Bank to raise interest rates further as consumer confidence returns.

Australian property is 'dangerously unaffordable'

Thu, 07 Jan 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Australian property is expensive and an "anomaly" when compared to the rest of the world, an expert has said.

Big bank domination to be scrutinised

Wed, 06 Jan 2010 13:00:00 GMT

An upcoming international meeting of banking chiefs is likely to raise questions about the domination of Australia's major banks, a commentator has suggested.

Homebuying weak at the end of 2009

Tue, 05 Jan 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Home loan applications fell dramatically in December as Aussies shied away from buying property at the end of last year.

Westpac customers switch home loans

Mon, 04 Jan 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Westpac customers are searching for other home loan options following its December interest rate rises.

Aussies 'should compare home loans' to avoid mortgage fatigue

Sun, 03 Jan 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Mortgage holders should compare home loans rather than settling for their existing arrangement, an expert has said.

Property and savings top investment wish-list

Wed, 30 Dec 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Almost three-quarters of Australians believe now is a good time to invest in property, a report has found.

Rising home loan values match property prices

Wed, 30 Dec 2009 13:00:00 GMT

The value of home loans has risen to correspond with increasing house prices.

Home loan holders may have to refinance, expert says

Tue, 29 Dec 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Many homeowners face having to remortgage their properties as a result of rising interest rates next year, an expert has said.

House prices set for a mixed year

Mon, 28 Dec 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Aussies who consider home buying next year will be faced with a changing marketplace caused by rising interest rates and improving economic conditions.

Home loan rates expected to rise by at least 1% in 2010

Wed, 23 Dec 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Home loan rates are expected to rise by at least one percentage point next year, the Australian Associated Press (AAP) reports.

RHG charges highest home loan rate

Wed, 23 Dec 2009 13:00:00 GMT

The latest interest rate rise by RHG, the successor to RAMS Home Loans, means that it is now charging customers the highest standard variable interest rate on home loans.

First-time home buyers search for cheaper properties

Tue, 22 Dec 2009 13:00:00 GMT

First-time home buyers are looking for cheaper and smaller houses in their attempt to break into the property market, a new survey has found.

"Gen Y" struggle to secure home loans

Mon, 21 Dec 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Aussies aged between 18 and 24 years - also known as "Gen Y" – are struggling to secure home loans because they cannot pass job stability requirements in the six-month period leading up to the loan application, new research has found.

Home building recovery could affect demand for home loans

Wed, 16 Dec 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Home building starts in the September quarter rose by 9.4 per cent to 34,082 units, up from 31,154 units in the June quarter, the Australian Bureau of Statistics has said.

Westpac stands by higher home loan rates

Tue, 15 Dec 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Westpac's chairman has defended the interest rate increase the bank made earlier this month and has suggested there will be no backing down to pressure to offer cheaper home loans.

Non-bank home loans set to return

Mon, 14 Dec 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Home loan customers will be offered greater choice next year as funding conditions improve for non-bank lenders, a report has found.

Christmas deals encourage customers to compare credit cards

Mon, 14 Dec 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Shoppers are being encouraged to spend big this Christmas as retailers compete for Aussie dollars.

Home loan demand set to fall

Sun, 13 Dec 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Demand for home loans will fall in the coming year, according to a report

Home loan switching brings both benefits and charges

Thu, 10 Dec 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Bank customers who compare home loans should weigh up the savings made from lower interest rates against the cost of leaving a mortgage.

NAB will not rule out higher interest rates

Wed, 09 Dec 2009 13:00:00 GMT

National Australia Bank (NAB) is to review its low mortgage rates before the Reserve Bank meets again in February, making it possible NAB will raise interest rates, the Australian reports.

Interest rates hike causes slight dip in consumer confidence

Tue, 08 Dec 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Consumer confidence in Australia has declined only slightly despite the recent interest rate rises.

Home loan market 'getting competitive again'

Tue, 08 Dec 2009 13:00:00 GMT

A range of smaller banks are now offering competitive home loans alongside the bigger lenders, a mortgage advisor has said.

Westpac offers assistance after interest rate rise

Mon, 07 Dec 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Westpac has warned customers that they will have to get used to paying more for borrowing following the bank's interest rate hike last week.

Time to compare home loans as property market booms

Sun, 06 Dec 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Homebuyers are rushing to secure a property before Christmas despite recent interest rate rises, News.com.au reports.

Aussies paying back home loans and credit cards this Christmas

Thu, 03 Dec 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Aussies are going to be paying off their home loans and cheap credit cards this Christmas instead of hitting the shops, according to a new study.

Aussie home loans reach 'record high' in November

Tue, 01 Dec 2009 13:00:00 GMT

People looking to compare low interest home loans may be interested to hear that Australian mortgages hit record highs last month.

Higher rents may signal time to compare home loans

Mon, 30 Nov 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Higher rents predicted for next year may prompt people to compare low interest home loans.

Home loans may be getting bigger as Aussie houses expanding

Sun, 29 Nov 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Aussie low interest home loans may be getting larger, if the figures of one financial group are anything to go by.

More people could be looking to compare home loans in 2010

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 13:00:00 GMT

More people could be scouring the market for low interest home loans in the next two years, according to a new study.

Comparing home loans? Find out which is the 'perfect match'

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 13:00:00 GMT

People looking to compare home loans may find it difficult to know which deals are best for them.

Competition in mortgage market 'will ensure low interest home loans'

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Competition evident in the mortgage market will ensure low interest home loans are available to consumers.

Home loans: People less likely to move than a decade ago

Sun, 22 Nov 2009 13:00:00 GMT

People looking to compare low interest home loans may be keen to learn that over the past decade, householders have been less inclined to move.

Reserve Bank official: Home loan deposits 'could be regulated'

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Creating rules to limit deposits that home loans customers have to pay banks was suggested by a Reserve Bank official this week.

Do Aussies have time to compare home loans?

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Effective short-cuts such as comparing home loans and credit cards may be more useful than ever for Aussies right now, as it appears they are working more overtime than the hours they receive as annual leave.

Consumers may need more help to compare home loans

Sun, 15 Nov 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Consumers may need help when it comes to comparing home loans, if one news report is anything to go by.

Home Loans: 30% of first-time buyers 'rejected'

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 13:00:00 GMT

A third of first-time buyers applying for home loans are rejected, it has been claimed.

Consumers 'hit by home loans stress'

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Consumers are becoming increasingly anxious about their home loans, it has been suggested.

Home loans: Adelaide house prices 'have jumped in last decade'

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 13:00:00 GMT

House prices in Adelaide have jumped, according to new figures that may be of interest to those looking to compare home loans.

Home loans demand has "surged"

Mon, 09 Nov 2009 13:00:00 GMT

There has been a significant increase in the demand for low interest home loans, it has been claimed.

Aussie first-time buyers 'rushing for home loans'

Sun, 08 Nov 2009 13:00:00 GMT

First-time buyers are rushing to obtain home loans in order to take advantage of the government's First Home Buyer Grant.

Home loans: Australia must 'get going' on building property

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Australia must "get going" in terms of producing more affordable housing stock, it has been claimed in emerging home loans news.

Home loans: Exclusive Sydney property sells for $23m

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 13:00:00 GMT

An exclusive Sydney residence sold at auction for $23 million this week, which may inspire people to take out a home loan to buy their perfect property.

NAB: Many factors behind home loan changes

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Many factors were taken into consideration when the National Australia Bank (NAB) increased its rates on home loans, it has declared.

Home loans: Building approvals 'on the increase'

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Home loans customers may be interested to learn that building approvals may be on the increase if new figures are anything to go by.

Are more people comparing home loans?

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 13:00:00 GMT

It appears more people could well have been comparing home loans recently, if the following report is anything to go by.

Home loan rates 'to increase'

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Home loan rates are set to increase as Australia's largest financial institutes have announced they will match the central bank's interest rate rise.

Aussie home loan lending 'strengthened' in September

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Home loans showed an increase in September, according to new analysis.

Home loans: House prices rise in Q3

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 13:00:00 GMT

A new report has indicated that Australian house prices rose in the three months leading to the end of September, which may be of interest to those looking to compare home loans.

Early repayments advised when borrowing against home loans

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 13:00:00 GMT

When considering borrowing against home loans, mortgage customers should be sure to increase repayments.

Home loans: Best suburb buys identified

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 13:00:00 GMT

House hunters looking to compare home loans may be interested to learn where the country's biggest bargains are.

Swan welcomes ANZ interest rate announcement

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 13:00:00 GMT

ANZ has announced that it is to keep its interest rates in line with the national level, which may be good news for those seeking low interest home loans.

Home loans: Housing more affordable, but not for long, says expert

Sun, 25 Oct 2009 13:00:00 GMT

A new report has highlighted the fact that housing may be more affordable now, but it may not be for long, in news that may be of interest to home loans customers.

Home loans customers have mixed feeling about economy

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Potential home loans customers have mixed feelings about the state of the economy.

High-end property purchases 'not made with home loans'

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 13:00:00 GMT

More people are considering high-end home loans, according to new reports.

Home loans: 'Property still the great Australian dream'

Mon, 19 Oct 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Buying property is still an aspiration of many Australians, it has been claimed in news that those looking for low interest home loans may be keen to learn.

Number of first-time home loans customers 'may decline'

Sun, 18 Oct 2009 13:00:00 GMT

There may be a decline in the number of people taking on home loans, it has been claimed.

Mortgage advice: Pay off home loans as if interest rate was higher

Wed, 14 Oct 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Tips have been offered on how to cope with the recent rise in interest rates.

Understanding financial jargon could help home loans customers

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 13:00:00 GMT

When it comes to looking for low interest home loans, people should make an effort to understand the terminology to make sure they get the best deal.

Less demand for fixed rate home loans

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Fewer people opted for fixed rate home loans throughout September, according to new research.

Existing home loans customers charged more, study suggests

Tue, 06 Oct 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Recent research has suggested that banks charge existing home loans customers more than new clients.

Demand for home loans down in August

Tue, 06 Oct 2009 13:00:00 GMT

The number of people applying for home loans fell in August, according to new figures.

Home loans: Timing is 'crucial' when buying a property

Mon, 05 Oct 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Timing is almost as important as location when it comes to buying a property, home loans customers may be interested to read.

Home loan customers are being 'realistic about what they can afford'

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Australian home loans customers are being more realistic about what they can afford, it has been suggested.

Banks to protect home loans customers against interest rate rises

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Australia's big banks have committed to keeping interest rates low for home loans customers, it has emerged.

Home loans customers 'should not be concerned' about house building drop

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 14:00:00 GMT

People, including those looking for low interest home loans, should not be phased by the recent dip in house building figures.

Home loans: June sees 'strongest quarterly growth in house prices' since crash

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 14:00:00 GMT

House prices saw one of the strongest increases since the financial crisis erupted in 2007.

First home loans customers 'rushing for grants'

Sun, 27 Sep 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Experts in the property sector have suggested that there will be a rush for among potential home loans customers as the first home grant is due to be cut.

FHOG 'increased cost of first home loans'

Thu, 24 Sep 2009 14:00:00 GMT

The First Home Owner Grant (FHOG) has increased the cost of first-time buyers' home loans, it has been claimed.

Home loans customers see highest monthly increase in house sales in 3 years

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 14:00:00 GMT

There was an increase in the number of property purchases undertaken by house hunters, including those with home loans, in August, it has emerged.

First home loans customers 'not aware of reduction to FHOB'

Tue, 22 Sep 2009 14:00:00 GMT

The majority of potential home loans customers who expect to get a Government First Home Owner Grant (GFHOG) are unaware that the First Home Owner Boost (FHOB) will be reduced.

Young Australians 'optimistic about property market'

Mon, 21 Sep 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Many younger Australians plan on getting a foot onto the property ladder, it has been found.

'The time is not right' for fixed-rate home loans

Mon, 21 Sep 2009 14:00:00 GMT

People looking for low interest home loans may be interested in news from one organisation.

Home loans customers 'will not face house price crash'

Sun, 20 Sep 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Home loans customers may be pleased to hear that there will not be a sharp decrease in property prices.

Home loans customers may choose suburbs for investments

Tue, 15 Sep 2009 14:00:00 GMT

People looking for low interest home loans with which to make an investment purchase may be keen to learn about a new study.

First-time home loans customers 'may find difficulty in market'

Mon, 14 Sep 2009 14:00:00 GMT

First-time buyers, including those requiring low interest home loans, may find it increasingly difficult to get onto the property ladder, according to a new report.

Customer satisfaction dampened by home loans faults

Sun, 13 Sep 2009 14:00:00 GMT

The quality of mortgage applications being received from some brokers is below an acceptable standard, in news that may interest those looking for low interest home loans.

Home loans news: Aussie housing 'still affordable'

Sun, 13 Sep 2009 14:00:00 GMT

People looking for low interest home loans may be pleased to hear that there are still affordable housing options open to them.

Home loans customers bought more properties in June

Thu, 10 Sep 2009 14:00:00 GMT

People looking for low interest home loans may be interested in new figures released from RP Data.

Parents 'should take care of home loans to cover holiday expenses'

Wed, 09 Sep 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Parents should pay more into their low interest home loans in order to save for extra expenses, it has been suggested.

July home loans figures show 2% decline

Wed, 09 Sep 2009 14:00:00 GMT

The number of low interest home loans customers buying properties has waned, according to new figures.

More home loans customers buying at auction

Tue, 08 Sep 2009 14:00:00 GMT

There has been a surge in interest from buyers, including those using home loans, in purchasing properties at auction in recent months.

Home loans customers may need to prepare for price hikes

Tue, 08 Sep 2009 14:00:00 GMT

House prices could be set to increase, which may impact on people searching for low interest home loans.

Home loans customers may be pleased with house building stats

Sun, 06 Sep 2009 14:00:00 GMT

House building figures showed an improvement last month, in news that may interest those looking for low interest home loans.

Lotto winner has no need for home loans

Sun, 06 Sep 2009 14:00:00 GMT

A lucky man from Wollongong has had a great boost to his savings accounts as he was informed he was the winner of an unclaimed prize.

Package products 'could save money on home loans'

Thu, 03 Sep 2009 14:00:00 GMT

People looking for low interest home loans may be interested to hear advice from one organisation.

One in five may not be able to afford home loans

Wed, 02 Sep 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Property owners have claimed they may not be able to afford repayments if home loans rates increase.

Home loans help to bolster improving housing market

Tue, 01 Sep 2009 14:00:00 GMT

People looking for low interest home loans may be keen to learn that house prices have increased throughout Australia.

Home loans applications on the increase

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 14:00:00 GMT

More and more Australians are signing up for home loans, it has been revealed.

Home loans market 'must remain competitive'

Thu, 27 Aug 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Those comparing home loans may be interested to hear some financial experts are concerned about the lack of competition in the market.

New visa rules could bode well for home loans market

Thu, 27 Aug 2009 14:00:00 GMT

An increase in the uptake of home loans could be seen as a result of new visa regulations, it has been claimed.

Home loans customers to include more investors

Wed, 26 Aug 2009 14:00:00 GMT

More and more investors are expected to buy property, perhaps through the use of home loans, in the coming months.

Medium-priced home market 'flourishing'

Mon, 24 Aug 2009 14:00:00 GMT

An increased amount of home loans customers may have been appearing on the housing market thanks to a recent boom in property sales.

Home loans customers 'should shop around'

Sun, 23 Aug 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Consumers looking to compare home loans should be willing to consider offers from lenders out with the major players in the market, it has been suggested.

Home loans customers 'may pay more for houses in Sydney'

Sun, 23 Aug 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Sydney properties are going to increase in value, in news that may be of interest to those looking into low interest home loans.

Making more home loans repayments 'is way to go'

Thu, 20 Aug 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Budgeting and repaying a mortgage in more instalments is the best way to deal with home loans, it has been advised.

Home loans competition 'needed'

Thu, 20 Aug 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Home loan lenders should ease the pressure on borrowers, it has been argued.

'Exciting day' for Australia's green energy

Wed, 19 Aug 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Australians looking for low interest home loans may be interested to read that parliament has set new renewable energy targets.

Cap on hardship withdrawals from home loans increased

Tue, 18 Aug 2009 14:00:00 GMT

It has been announced this week that people under financial hardship will be able to withdraw funds from frozen home loans funds.

NAB to bring home loans back to branches

Mon, 17 Aug 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Home loan customers may be interested to learn that the National Australia Bank (NAB) is planning to change the way it sells mortgages.

Banks 'restricting lending' to first-time buyers

Sun, 16 Aug 2009 14:00:00 GMT

People looking to compare home loans may be interested to read that several Australian banks are set to restrict lending to first-time buyers.

No housing credit crunch for Australia, says expert

Sun, 16 Aug 2009 14:00:00 GMT

In news that may be of interest to those looking to compare home loans, the Australian housing market should ride out the global credit crunch, according to one expert.

Home loans customers should find houses 'more affordable'

Thu, 13 Aug 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Those looking to compare low interest home loans may be interested to hear a recent report has suggested property affordability is better now than it was a year ago.

Home loans customers urged to beware exit fees

Tue, 11 Aug 2009 14:00:00 GMT

A recent article has urged Australians to make sure they get the deal that is best for them when comparing home loans.

Home loans customers 'should expect rate rise'

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Those searching for low interest home loans have been told prices may rise as a result of a lack of competition.

Home loans customers 'can make millions from property'

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Those comparing low interest home loans with a view to renovating and profiting from a property might be interested in a recent article appearing in the Daily Telegraph.

Commonwealth Bank raises home loans rates

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 14:00:00 GMT

A lender has opted to increase its home loan rates ahead of a possible rise in interest from the Reserve Bank of Australia.

Australians 'still unsure over fixed-price home loans'

Sun, 09 Aug 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Customers looking to compare low interest home loans are staying away from fixed-price deals, it has been claimed.

IMF predicts home loan drought

Sun, 09 Aug 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Australians looking to compare low interest home loans might be interested in the latest report from the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

Home loans customers 'could see house prices rising'

Thu, 06 Aug 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Those looking for low interest home loans may be interested to hear house prices in Australia could begin to rise.

ANZ 'will follow' bank accounts fee cuts

Tue, 04 Aug 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Following decisions from St George Bank, Westpac and the Commonwealth Bank of Australia to cut fees on bank accounts and low interest home loans, another lender has revealed plans to take similar steps.

Confidence in financial planners needs to be restored

Thu, 30 Jul 2009 14:00:00 GMT

The Financial Planning Association (FPA) is lobbying MPs to introduce new laws that will help to restore faith in the sector after a storm of criticism over its practices.

Head to outskirts 'for competitive property deals'

Wed, 29 Jul 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Heading to the suburbs could be a wise way to make the most of home loan money, it has been claimed.

Property prices 'show strong growth'

Wed, 29 Jul 2009 14:00:00 GMT

The housing market is showing signs of recovery, the publication of new figures show.

Give homes a facelift for a quick sale

Mon, 27 Jul 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Australians looking to get the best possible price for their home should give the entrance a thorough refurb before putting it on the market, renovation expert Vera Klein has advised.

Aussie property market set to swell

Sun, 26 Jul 2009 14:00:00 GMT

The Australian property market will remain buoyant despite the departure of many first-time buyers in the wake of the demise of the first-home buyers grant boost in September, it has been claimed.

Westpac home loan protest takes ironic twist

Thu, 23 Jul 2009 14:00:00 GMT

A man who withdrew his entire lifesavings from his Westpac savings account has witnessed his money going straight back to the bank.

First-home buyers drive up clearance rates

Thu, 23 Jul 2009 14:00:00 GMT

The flood of low-interest home loans on the market and the first-home buyers grant boost have encouraged first-timers to enter their local auction houses in droves.

ANZ unveils investment home loan

Wed, 22 Jul 2009 14:00:00 GMT

ANZ has this week launched a new mortgage product targeting property investors looking to simplify their repayments by bundling home loans together in a single credit limit.

Aussie sees refinanced home loans soar

Mon, 20 Jul 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Aussie customers were eager to refinance their home loan in June, with many looking to take advantage of the record low interest rates being witnessed after consecutive cuts from the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA).

Aussies still keen on low-interest home loans

Wed, 15 Jul 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Although overall debt levels are coming down, the Australian love affair with real estate is continuing unabated.

Big banks squeeze home loan brokers

Tue, 14 Jul 2009 14:00:00 GMT

The independence of home loan brokers may be threatened by new demands from Australia's biggest banks, consumer advocates have warned.

Fixed-rate home loans back in favour

Mon, 13 Jul 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Aussies looking to compare home loans are increasingly deciding that a fixed-rate deal is the most attractive option, new figures reveal.

18-year-old snaps up home loan

Sun, 12 Jul 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Although his teenage friends may have been getting a lot of attention locally spending their hard-earned cash on nights out and cars, all eyes are now firmly on the scrupulous 18-year-old saver Jason Fritsch.

Low-end property prices to fall 10 per cent

Thu, 09 Jul 2009 14:00:00 GMT

There will be a steep fall in house prices at the low end of the market as the first-home buyers grants come to an end, a new report warns.

Home loan demand remains high in May

Tue, 07 Jul 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Demand for new home loans remained high in May, new figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) show.

Don't bank on house price rises

Sun, 05 Jul 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Despite a national housing shortage, property prices are likely to remain depressed for the foreseeable future, one expert has claimed.

Luxury homes could be lost to the sea

Thu, 02 Jul 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Anyone who has taken out a home loan on a beachside property in Byron Bay may be rightly miffed at the local council's decision to leave tracts of prime real estate exposed to rising sea levels.

Home sales down in May

Mon, 29 Jun 2009 14:00:00 GMT

The number of new home sales completed in May slumped 5.7 per cent compared to the previous month, the Housing Industry Association (HIA) has revealed.

Hinze and Clark buy up Sydney pad at a snip

Sun, 28 Jun 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Kristy Hinze and Jim Clark have reportedly snapped up a luxury apartment overlooking Sydney Harbour.

Home loan customers fume on the net

Thu, 25 Jun 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Banking customers are turning to the internet to air their grievances with their financial institution, prompting the Big Four to begin monitoring forums to gauge consumer sentiment.

Buyers' agents popular in inner cities

Wed, 24 Jun 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Buyers' agents are in hot demand in inner-city areas such Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane.

Home loan customers in a rush to fix

Tue, 23 Jun 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Homeowners are eyeing the bottom of the home loan market and are scrambling to lock themselves into a fixed interest rate deal, brokers reveal.

90% getting a bad home loan deal

Tue, 23 Jun 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Around 90 per cent of Australians are failing to compare home loans in search of the best deal and are automatically opting for mortgages from the Big Four.

Home loan stamp duty 'may be abolished'

Sun, 21 Jun 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Aussie homeowners could find stamp duty on home loans abolished under the Henry tax review.

Aussies fail to compare home loans

Wed, 17 Jun 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Australians are paying a total of $2.7 billion extra in home loan payments every year because they are failing to compare home loans in search of the most competitive deal, it has been revealed.

Commonwealth admits fault in Storm sinking

Tue, 16 Jun 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Commonwealth Bank has conceded that its lax oversight of Storm Financial's lending was a contributor to the company's downfall.

2012 house prices 'impossible to predict'

Mon, 15 Jun 2009 14:00:00 GMT

A new report from BIS Shrapnel which claims that house prices will surge as much as 19 per cent by 2012 deserves to be held up to public scrutiny, SQM Research's Louis Christopher has announced.

NAB to launch Sharia-friendly home loans

Sun, 14 Jun 2009 14:00:00 GMT

National Australia Bank (NAB) will soon launch a new zero-interest loan for Muslim customers.

More home loan rate hikes may follow

Thu, 11 Jun 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Commonwealth Bank may not be the only bank to increase their home loan interest rates, lenders have announced.

Economist says home loan debt crisis unfounded

Wed, 10 Jun 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Fears that rising home loan and personal debt will spiral out of control are broadly unfounded, claims Professor Wooden, deputy director of the Melbourne Institute of Applied Economic and Social Research.

Banks piling on problems for those in home loan arrears

Wed, 10 Jun 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Consumer groups are scolding the likes of Commonwealth Bank, ANZ and National Australia Bank for enforcing heavy penalties for those struggling to keep up with their home loan payments.

Banks scorned as consumers embark on debt binge

Thu, 04 Jun 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Australian banks are being urged to remember the causes of the financial crisis as they open up their home loan and credit card lending practices.

Houses going for a song away from mortgage belts

Wed, 03 Jun 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Australians could pick up a home for less than the cash available under the first-home buyers grant, news.com.au has found.

House prices on the mend

Thu, 28 May 2009 14:00:00 GMT

The Australian housing market has rebounded in a sprightly fashion in the first four months of this year, a report from RP Data has found.

Banks shutting their doors to lenders

Thu, 28 May 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Bank lending growth rates have fallen to levels last seen in 1994, the latest figures from the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) show.

Home loans for first-timers inflating property market

Wed, 27 May 2009 14:00:00 GMT

The size of the average home loan snagged by first-home buyers has increased nearly a quarter (23 per cent) in the last two years, leading some experts to warn that the housing market is being inflated.

Aussies missing a trick with fixed rate home loans

Wed, 27 May 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Australians are at risk of missing out on the historically low interest rates because of a reluctance to lock into their home loan, one analyst claims.

Home loan providers draw line in the sand

Wed, 27 May 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Australia's four largest home loan providers are developing distinct approaches to mortgage lending during the downturn.

Cash bonus hotline swamped with calls

Mon, 25 May 2009 14:00:00 GMT

The Australian government's 'hotline' for $900 stimulus payments is receiving an average of 8,400 calls a day, it has been revealed.

Australian housing market 'holding up despite recession'

Wed, 13 May 2009 14:00:00 GMT

The Australian housing market has proved to be particularly resilient during the downturn, two of the largest property research groups in the country have agreed.

Record rise in first-time buyer home loans recorded

Wed, 13 May 2009 14:00:00 GMT

First-time home buyers are increasingly taking out home loans, new figures show.

Swan extends first-home buyers grant

Mon, 11 May 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Treasurer Wayne Swan put an end to months of speculation when he announced that the first-home buyers grant bonus will continue until November as he delivered the federal budget.

A quarter hit by mortgage stress

Sun, 10 May 2009 14:00:00 GMT

A quarter of all mortgage customers are having difficulty repaying their home loans each month, the latest figures from Datamonitor have shown.

Buyers biting off more than they can chew?

Sun, 10 May 2009 14:00:00 GMT

As many as one in five first-home buyers may find it difficult to repay their home loan debt, a new poll has found.

ANZ Bank: Avoid fixing home loan rate

Wed, 06 May 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Aussie homeowners looking to save money on their mortgages have been urged to hold off on adopting fixed home loan rates as interest rates are likely to fall further in the coming months.

Top-end houses 'depressing the market'

Tue, 05 May 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Despite the onrush of first-home buyers signing up for low-interest home loans in recent months, the national housing market continued to fall for the fourth quarter in a row, the latest official stats show.

Home loans: sign up or hold off?

Mon, 04 May 2009 14:00:00 GMT

As the June 30th deadline for the first-home buyers' grant bonus approaches, one expert has advised that it might be wise to avoid jumping into the property market.

Northern Territory gets home loan boost

Thu, 30 Apr 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Residents in the Northern Territory looking to buy their first home will now be able to get more support from the regional government.

Taxpayer 'paying over the odds' for home loan bundles

Thu, 30 Apr 2009 14:00:00 GMT

A failing government strategy to buy up home loan debt bundles may be costing the Australian taxpayer $120 million, the Sydney Morning Herald reports.

Predatory lenders 'stealing beds' from debtors

Wed, 29 Apr 2009 14:00:00 GMT

In the week that the Rudd government announced a package of measures to help Aussies keep up with home loan and credit card payments, it has emerged that predatory lenders are making a killing out of those most in need.

Aussies house prices rise as global economy tanks

Wed, 29 Apr 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Average house and flat prices in Australia continued to rise in the first quarter of 2009, bucking a global property slump that is causing misery in countries such as the US and Britain, a new report has found.

NSW suffers worst in home loan payment crisis

Mon, 27 Apr 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Postcodes in New South Wales dominate a new table showing the areas of the country where the highest numbers of residents are in arrears on their home loan payments.

Dodgy home loan companies face jail time

Mon, 27 Apr 2009 14:00:00 GMT

The government has introduced plans that will threaten irresponsible home loan brokers and lenders with jail time for failing to check whether a borrower can afford the loan repayments.

Home loan help for hard-up Australians

Sun, 26 Apr 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Prime minister Kevin Rudd has unveiled a new plan that will allow Australians to ask their bank for leniency on home loan payments on the grounds of financial hardship.

Holding home loan payments steady

Thu, 23 Apr 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Although speculation continues over whether the Reserve Bank's spree of interest rate cuts has come to an end, consumers can make the most of previous cuts by maintaining their old home loan payment levels, one financial adviser claims.

Rudd and the great grant mystery

Thu, 23 Apr 2009 14:00:00 GMT

The debate over whether prime minister Kevin Rudd will extend the bonus on first-home buyers grant beyond June 30th heated up again on Friday (April 24th) with the revelation from government insiders that he will carry the bonus over.

First-home buyers grant 'misguided'

Wed, 22 Apr 2009 14:00:00 GMT

With the housing bubble well and truly burst, Kevin Rudd's efforts to reinflate it with the first-home buyers grant spell trouble for home loan providers and borrowers alike, the Sydney Morning Herald has warned.

Home loan stress eases on back of cash handout

Wed, 22 Apr 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Home loan stress being felt by average Australians has fallen in April, the latest poll from Fujitsu has found.

First-home buyers grants come to an end in June

Wed, 22 Apr 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Prime minister Kevin Rudd is insistent that first-home buyers grant bonus must wind down in June, despite growing pressure to announce an extension.

Renters feel home loans out of reach

Tue, 21 Apr 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Nearly two-thirds (60 per cent) of renters are worried that they will never be able to afford their own home, with industry bosses blaming bureaucracy for the slow rate of new homebuilding.

Home loan honeymoon is over

Tue, 21 Apr 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Consumers looking to compare home loans are likely to lament the news that many major banks are hiking up the fees on their fixed-rate home loans.

Government 'may abolish bank exit fees'

Sun, 19 Apr 2009 14:00:00 GMT

The government is considering taking steps to ban exit fees.

Home loan landscape 'could be a mirage'

Wed, 08 Apr 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Although the Reserve Bank of Australia's (RBA's) continuing interest rate cuts are bringing a raft of new low-interest home loans on the market, hard-up first-home buyers may be racking up trouble for the future by getting hold of a loan.

Home loan growth stagnates in Feb

Wed, 08 Apr 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Despite the Reserve Bank of Australia's (RBA's) best effort, there was very little growth in the number of people applying for new home loans in February, the latest official figures show.

Westpac slims down rate cut

Wed, 08 Apr 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Westpac has announced that it will bring its home loan interest rates down by ten basis points following the 25 point cut from the Reserve Bank.

High court clears the way for cash bonus

Sun, 05 Apr 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Australians who were biting their nails during the high court cash bonus case can rest assured that they will get the $900 cash from Kevin Rudd and pals.

Swan: home loan reprieve not for everyone

Sun, 05 Apr 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Treasurer Wayne Swan has conceded that the new 12-month reprieve on home loan payments for hard-up Aussies won't be on offer to everyone.

Clever use of stimulus package can help clear credit card and home loan debt quickly

Sun, 29 Mar 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Those wanting to improve their money management situation may find that the government's financial stimulus package could be of particular benefit.

Adelaide to outstrip Sydney's housing growth

Tue, 24 Mar 2009 13:00:00 GMT

There will be fewer new homes built in Sydney this year than there will be in Adelaide, figures seen by the Daily Telegraph show.

Beware the zombie bank and ninja home loan

Mon, 23 Mar 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Those looking to compare home loans may do well to steer clear of 'zombie banks' and lenders offering 'ninja loans', the Sydney Morning Herald reports.

Home loan misery for 30,000 Aussies

Mon, 23 Mar 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Some 30,000 people may have to hand back the keys to their property by December as they fail to make payments on their home loans, a new report is warning.

Australia 'faces sub-prime home loan crisis'

Sun, 22 Mar 2009 13:00:00 GMT

The Australian economy could take a major nosedive in the coming months as millions of first-home buyers risk bankruptcy in a bid to take advantage of low-interest home loans and property grants.

First home buyers told to consider carefully

Wed, 18 Mar 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Although the government grants offered by Rudd and the team are proving a strong incentive for first-home buyers, experts are urging them to weigh up whether to apply for a home loan carefully.

ANZ: rural Australia boosted by first-home buyers

Tue, 17 Mar 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Bank account provider ANZ has announced that regional Australia is well positioned to steer itself through the downturn, with first-home buyers set to bring a boost to construction jobs.

CBA swoops in with home loan relief

Tue, 17 Mar 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Commonwealth Bank has become the first major home loan provider to unveil measures to help keep Aussies in their homes while they're out of work.

Home loan approval 'no mean feat'

Tue, 17 Mar 2009 13:00:00 GMT

While many Australians may be itching to take advantage of historically low-interest home loans, the Sydney Morning Herald has warned that getting the all clear from the bank is getting a lot more difficult.

Westpac puts up its hands in home loan scandal

Mon, 16 Mar 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Westpac has admitted guilt in preventing some of its customers from taking advantage of a special home loan interest rate.

House sale volumes tank

Sun, 15 Mar 2009 13:00:00 GMT

First-home buyers itching to take advantage of interest rate cuts from the Reserve Bank may have a hard time bidding on the keys to their new property.

Aussies scooping up US homes

Thu, 12 Mar 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Australians have been raiding their savings accounts and supers to make the most of the property slump in the US, the Daily Telegraph reports.

Borrowers opting for cheapest home loans

Thu, 12 Mar 2009 13:00:00 GMT

In a bid to save even more cash on their new home loan deals, Australians are showing apathy towards special offers such as cheap credit cards and savings accounts that often come attached with new mortgages.

No extension for first-home buyers grant

Wed, 11 Mar 2009 13:00:00 GMT

After enticing thousands of Aussies into the housing market, the first-home buyers grant extension is coming to an end.

Home loan customers 'still can't go down the road'

Tue, 10 Mar 2009 13:00:00 GMT

A year after treasurer Wayne Swan insisted that home loan customers should be able to "go down the road" if they felt their lender was giving them a poor deal on interest rates, many Aussies are still struggling to break with their banks.

Home loan approvals up again

Tue, 10 Mar 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Approvals for new home loans continued to soar in January as thousands of first-home buyers jumped into the housing pool.

Shiller: Offer cheap home loan advice

Thu, 26 Feb 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Governments should subsidise financial advice to help steer homeowners away from another housing bubble, one of the world's leading money authors has claimed.

Low-end home loan holders see biggest benefits

Sun, 22 Feb 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Aussies who are looking to sell homes worth less than $500,000 will gain most from first-home buyers grants and the Reserve Bank of Australia's (RBA's) crusade against interest rates.

UK plans a kick start with low-interest home loans

Thu, 19 Feb 2009 13:00:00 GMT

The UK's Liberal Democrats party has put forward proposals to kick start the ailing mortgage market with new government-backed low-interest home loans.

GE waives home loan switch fees to bring rate relief

Wed, 18 Feb 2009 13:00:00 GMT

GE Money has announced that it will waive the deferred administration fees (DAF) for its home loan customers to encourage them to switch to a cheaper deal.

Costello inspires baby boom

Tue, 17 Feb 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Former treasurer Peter Costello's appeal for Australians to have "one for mum, one for dad and one for your country" has not been taken lightly.

Rudd will hand over cash for tax forms

Tue, 17 Feb 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Prime minister Kevin Rudd will be happy to hand out $900 cash to Aussies to help them pay off home loans and credit cards or even just go on a little spending spree, providing they have done their tax returns.

Economists 'mixed on March interest rates'

Mon, 16 Feb 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Some economists in Australia believe that the Reserve Bank is likely to slash to base rate of interest once again when it meets in March, it has been reported.

Aussie homes going cheap

Sun, 15 Feb 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Homes in Australia are now the most affordable they have been in five years, boosted by the falling interest rates and increased government subsidies.

Aussies return to the investment property

Sun, 15 Feb 2009 13:00:00 GMT

With an abundance of low-interest home loans on the market, Australians are cautiously dipping their toes back into the investment property pool, figures indicate.

Handling home loan debt as retirement looms

Thu, 12 Feb 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Stevens: Use base rate to curb booms

Tue, 10 Feb 2009 13:00:00 GMT

The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) will look to use the base rate of interest in a bid to prevent housing market booms and stock market bubbles growing out of control, governor Glenn Stevens has claimed.

Home loan approvals soar

Tue, 10 Feb 2009 13:00:00 GMT

The number of Australians approved for low-interest home loans soared in December, according to official figures.

Auctions paint mixed picture of home loan uptake

Mon, 09 Feb 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Despite a wave of new low-interest home loans coming on to the market, property auction figures across the country have painted a mixed picture of demand for bricks and mortar.

Experts: Rates at record lows by winter

Sun, 08 Feb 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Average rates payable on low-interest home loans will reach record lows by winter, many financial experts are betting.

First-home buyers flood the market

Wed, 04 Feb 2009 13:00:00 GMT

First-home buyers descended on the nation's estate agents in droves last month as the number of low interest home loans on the market shot up.

Bankwest unveils Rate Tracker Ultra

Wed, 04 Feb 2009 13:00:00 GMT

With hefty rate cuts becoming a regular feature at the start of each month, Bankwest has launched a new low-interest home loan that makes it easier to get the most out of the tiny base rate.

Rate cut leaves the nation $4.3 billion better off

Tue, 03 Feb 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Yesterday's announcement to cut the base rate of interest by a further percentage point has saved the nation a collective $4.3 billion in home loan repayments.

Plain sailing through the downturn

Sun, 01 Feb 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Plenty of Aussies are feeling right at home and aren't been too badly affected by the global economic downturn, an expert claims.

Property experts eye 100 point cut

Thu, 29 Jan 2009 13:00:00 GMT

As the next Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) interest rate decision draws near, experts are forecasting another 100 point basis cut, a move which could introduce a bevy of new low-interest home loans.

Queensland beach homes sink into receivership

Thu, 29 Jan 2009 13:00:00 GMT

More than 4,000 beachside homes in Queensland are sitting empty as the top end of the property market has tanked.

Bank governor won't hold back

Wed, 28 Jan 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Reserve Bank governor Glenn Stevens isn't going to hold back next week when the time comes to have another look at base rates, the Advertiser's finance expert Terry McCrann has insisted.

Get locked into low rates

Tue, 27 Jan 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Now may be the time to lock yourself into a long-term low interest home loan, the Sydney Morning Herald has advised.

Beachside dream home sheds $5.5 million

Sun, 25 Jan 2009 13:00:00 GMT

While there are likely to be many losses as Australian property prices plummet, few are likely to lose as much as Maxwell and Cleo Conrad.

Non-bank home loans shrink

Thu, 15 Jan 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Widely publicised home loans figures from the Reserve Bank this week have shown that the non-bank lenders' share of Australian mortgages has plummeted in recent months.

More loans on the market for average Aussies

Tue, 13 Jan 2009 13:00:00 GMT

The rate-cutting frenzy seen in the last few months has had the desired effect of putting more low-interest home loans on to the market.

Pressure on Rudd to stretch first-home buyers grant

Tue, 13 Jan 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Kevin Rudd's peers are piling on the pressure to extend the first-home buyers grant after figures show it was a resounding success in its first month.

House prices 'could soar'

Sun, 11 Jan 2009 13:00:00 GMT

While the recent raft of low-interest home loans and falling house prices have been welcome relief to many first-home buyers who have been struggling to get into their own property, some experts are warning that the market may not be subdued for long.

Westpac 'sensitive to St George customer needs'

Thu, 08 Jan 2009 13:00:00 GMT

With St George now taken under Westpac's wing, one expert has said that the bank will have to tread carefully to avoid losing customers.

Victoria house prices sunk by economic tides

Wed, 07 Jan 2009 13:00:00 GMT

House prices in Victoria have tanked in the last six months, new property data shows.

Say hello to a new home in the new year

Thu, 01 Jan 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Home loan experts are envisaging a great year for first home buyers looking to get on the property ladder, Australian Associated Press has reported.

Families tend their wounds after high rate mauling

Mon, 22 Dec 2008 13:00:00 GMT

While the market is awash with new low-interest home loans, the Reserve Bank's attack on the base rate seen since September has come too late for many Aussies, new figures show.

Property prices tank in mining towns

Thu, 18 Dec 2008 13:00:00 GMT

House prices in towns built around mining, manufacturing and car-making are likely to remain flat for a decade, an expert has warned.

Housing demand 'steaming'

Wed, 17 Dec 2008 13:00:00 GMT

Demand for property among first-home buyers and other groups in Australia is "steaming", NineMSN's housing expert Sarah Mills has claimed.

Base rate 'could be at 3.75% by March'

Tue, 16 Dec 2008 13:00:00 GMT

As a raft of new low-interest home loans enter the market, experts are predicting that the base rate could fall even further next year.

Surfing the summer rate cut wave

Mon, 15 Dec 2008 13:00:00 GMT

The December decision will likely be welcomed by first-home buyers and home loan holders alike as it will allow them to take advantage of low rates until the end of summer.

Lighten up: It's raining cash

Thu, 11 Dec 2008 13:00:00 GMT

While the second half of 2008 will likely be remembered for the doom and gloom that cloaked the world economy, the Australian has reminded people to look on the bright side.

Home loans lead the charge in war against woe

Tue, 09 Dec 2008 13:00:00 GMT

A bevy of new low-interest home loans may prove to be the key weapon in the war against the current economic misery, Westpac has suggested.

First-home buyers on the charge

Sun, 07 Dec 2008 13:00:00 GMT

First-home buyers on the charge

Thousands lose out over fixed home loan break fees

Thu, 04 Dec 2008 13:00:00 GMT

While many Australians have probably celebrated this week's rate cut as they anticipate a flood of new low-interest home loans, those on fixed-rate home loan deals may not be quite so jubilant.

Rate cuts 'present great opportunities'

Tue, 02 Dec 2008 13:00:00 GMT

The recent slew of interest rate cuts present Aussies with some great opportunities to bag low-interest home loans and other products, one expert has claimed.

Rental squeeze misery continues in Sydney

Tue, 02 Dec 2008 13:00:00 GMT

With many first-home buyers still struggling to enter the property market, Sydney's rental market is still feeling the pressure.

Home loans market shrinks

Sun, 30 Nov 2008 13:00:00 GMT

The number of home loans granted during the third quarter slumped 27 per cent, new stats show.

Mortgage misery hits the rich

Tue, 25 Nov 2008 13:00:00 GMT

The number of home loan defaults in affluent neighbourhoods in New South Wales is one the rise, new statistics show.

Consumers wallow in recession gloom

Sun, 23 Nov 2008 13:00:00 GMT

Most Australians are wrongly resigned to the belief that the country is in a recession, a new poll has shown.

BankWest unveils new home loans and website

Tue, 18 Nov 2008 13:00:00 GMT

BankWest is hoping to alleviate the strain of home loan repayments with a new rate and a new website to help first-home buyers crack the market.

Making home loans work harder

Mon, 17 Nov 2008 13:00:00 GMT

Paying off home loans fortnightly could knock years off mortgages and leave savvy Australians thousands of dollars better off.

Home loan repayments "down $300 by March"

Wed, 12 Nov 2008 13:00:00 GMT

Average monthly home loan repayments could fall as much as $300 by March of next year, one money expert has enthused.

RBA attacks interest rates again

Thu, 06 Nov 2008 13:00:00 GMT

The Reserve Bank of Australia has slashed interest rates for the second month in a row, bringing the base rate to 5.25 per cent.

Is now a good time for a new house?

Tue, 04 Nov 2008 13:00:00 GMT

A slowdown in the housing market may mean that now is a good time to search the various home loans on offer and invest in property.

Estate agents 'a creative bunch'

Wed, 29 Oct 2008 13:00:00 GMT

With access to low-interest home loans dwindling, experts have reported that first-home buyers and estate agents are getting creative to ensure people can get on the ladder.

Refinance to get the most from rate cuts

Tue, 21 Oct 2008 13:00:00 GMT

As the banks follow through on the recent base rate cut, Choice has urged homeowners to refinance.

First-home buyers flock to grants

Thu, 16 Oct 2008 13:00:00 GMT

First-home buyers across Australia have been flooding estate agents and building firms on the hunt for a bargain property following the extension of the first-home buyers grant.

Loan rate slash could help struggling Aussies

Mon, 13 Oct 2008 13:00:00 GMT

Existing variable home loan customers could refinance their mortgage to take advantage of rate slashes for fixed-rate home loan products, Westpac has claimed.

NAB follows through on rate slash

Wed, 08 Oct 2008 13:00:00 GMT

National Australia Bank was one of the first to follow up on the Reserve's one per cent rate cut, with a 0.8 per cent cut on its standard variable interest rates.

Reserve takes an axe to interest rates

Mon, 06 Oct 2008 13:00:00 GMT

Low-interest home loans may soon be easier to come by after the Reserve Bank of Australia cut the base rate of interest by a whopping one per cent.

National home loans regs 'will cut red tape'

Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:00:00 GMT

Kevin Rudd is pushing for increased regulation of the home loans market to prevent the country running into the same kind of problems witnessed in the US.

Sydney gripped by rental rage

Wed, 24 Sep 2008 14:00:00 GMT

Despite having a population of five million, there were only 579 homes available to rent in the city yesterday, stats show.

Bracing against the 40-year mortgage

Wed, 24 Sep 2008 14:00:00 GMT

While repaying the home loan has long been considered a necessary evil, today's homeowners may find themselves stuck with it for far longer.

First-home buyers 'need a big deposit'

Mon, 22 Sep 2008 14:00:00 GMT

While base interest rates for home loans and credit cards have been cut for the first time in seven years, first-home buyers may still find it difficult to get a good deal.

Making sure money doesn't spoil the mood

Mon, 22 Sep 2008 14:00:00 GMT

With new figures showing that Australians everywhere are tightening their belts, it is important to make sure that money worries do not drag relationships down.

Counting the costs of the US crisis

Thu, 18 Sep 2008 14:00:00 GMT

While Wall Street reels from the recent financial crisis and many markets around the world wobble, many Aussies may be left wondering how it will affect them.

Tycoon's "obnoxious" house bid rejected

Wed, 17 Sep 2008 14:00:00 GMT

While buying their home outright under the hammer is an unlikely dream for many first-home buyers, a recent auction has shown that money may not be the only obstacle to bagging the perfect property.

Big banks are 'weathering credit crisis'

Wed, 17 Sep 2008 14:00:00 GMT

While Australian banks are likely to see profits fall as consumers react to the shrinking availability of low-interest home loans and cheap credit cards, many are still well poised to weather the current financial storm.

Variable home loans favoured by new buyers

Wed, 17 Sep 2008 14:00:00 GMT

First-home buyers are showing a preference for variable rates when picking their home loan deal as many expect rates to fall further.

Small sacrifices knock years off mortgages

Mon, 15 Sep 2008 14:00:00 GMT

As Aussies begin to feel the benefits of the recent rate cut, the Advertiser has pointed out that many could shave years off their home loan repayments.

Westpac plans home loan rate cut

Mon, 15 Sep 2008 14:00:00 GMT

Aussies looking for low-interest home loans will soon be able to benefit from reduced rates from Westpac.

Up payments to break mortgage chains

Mon, 15 Sep 2008 14:00:00 GMT

Despite a cut in the interest rate, Aussies still need to keep up their home loan repayments to pay off debts quicker.

Builders call for more rate cuts

Thu, 11 Sep 2008 14:00:00 GMT

Home builders have called on the government to slash home loan rates to encourage Aussies to buy more houses.

Aussie offers fuel help with home loans

Thu, 11 Sep 2008 14:00:00 GMT

Aussie Home Loans has announced that it will offer home loan customers $500 dollars worth of fuel in a price-beating campaign being run in September.

Mortgage holders get a break

Mon, 01 Sep 2008 14:00:00 GMT

First home buyers may be pleased to hear that the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has decided to cut the interest rate, with a number of major banks following suit.

St George cuts home loan rates

Sun, 31 Aug 2008 14:00:00 GMT

St George Banks has announced a reduction in interest rates offered on its fixed home loans ahead of an expected cut by the central bank.

Home loan rates lowered

Thu, 28 Aug 2008 14:00:00 GMT

Australia and New Zealand Banking Group (ANZ) has announced that it is to lower fixed home loan and residential investment loan rates by between 30 and 50 basis points.

Refinancing 'on the rise'

Thu, 28 Aug 2008 14:00:00 GMT

Homeowner refinancing is on the rise according to new figures published by Bernie Lewis Home Loans.