Mozo home loan news and advice

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.

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.