Home loan news and advice - page 4

How to increase the value of your home (without waiting for the market to do it for you)

Last updated Thursday, 15 May 2025

When it comes to property values, playing the waiting game isn’t always the best strategy. While the market can go up and down, smart homeowners take matters into their own hands, making upgrades that boost their home's appeal and potential selling price. And the best part? You don’t need a bottomless bank account to do it, finance options like a small personal loan could be the key to unlocking your home’s hidden value.

The low rate home loan hit-list: May 2025

Wednesday, 7 May 2025

With home loan rates finally coming down following the February rate cut, there's never been a better time to compare how much you could save on your mortgage repayments.

$74k parental gift not enough to escape brutal housing affordability crisis, reveals new report

Monday, 5 May 2025

The ‘Bank of Mum and Dad’ is handing out record amounts to help kids buy homes, but Mozo’s latest data reveals even a massive $74,000 gift isn't enough. Aspiring homeowners still need an annual income nearing $150,000 to manage a mortgage on an average-priced property, according to the Mozo Bank of Mum and Dad Report 2025.

No-strings: The ‘Bank of Mum and Dad’ now gifting an average $74k for home deposits

Wednesday, 30 April 2025

The ‘Bank of Mum and Dad’, long considered a crucial lender for aspiring Australian homeowners, has undergone a fundamental transformation, evolving into the ‘Gift of Mum and Dad’, according to Mozo’s latest report findings.

From loans to legacies: Meet the bank that doesn’t want their money back

Tuesday, 29 April 2025

Key insights:

Why locking in a fixed rate home loan now could be a smart money move

Last updated Thursday, 24 April 2025

The RBA recently made its first cut in four years and many banks followed suit. But while a lower cash rate is good news for borrowers and homeowners, the RBA board was quick to point out there’s no certainty we’ll see another drop anytime soon. So if you’re looking to lock in a great home loan deal, now might be the time to consider a fixed rate as many challenger banks have highly competitive short-term deals available.

Macquarie undercuts the Big Four banks with its latest 0.20% cut to fixed rate home loans

Thursday, 24 April 2025

Macquarie has cut another 20 basis points off its fixed rate home loans, vastly undercutting what’s on offer at the Big Four banks.

Home loan shake-up: Westpac Group slashes rates by at least 1 per cent across major brands

Wednesday, 16 April 2025

The Westpac Group – comprising St.George, Bank of Melbourne, BankSA and Westpac – has lowered advertised rates on package variable home loans for new customers.

First home buyer showdown: Labor vs Coalition election housing promises explained

Monday, 14 April 2025

Housing affordability is front and centre this federal election, with both major parties pitching policies to help first home buyers break into the market. But while the goal is shared, Labor and the Coalition are taking very different routes to get there.

What you need for a $900,000 home in Australia

Last updated Wednesday, 9 April 2025

A $900,000 home will get you pretty far in most places in Australia, though the value varies significantly depending on location.