Getting pre-approved is a huge milestone in the home loan journey. It gives you confidence, a clear budget, and the ability to shop with purpose. But here’s the part many borrowers don’t realise… Pre-approval is not a guarantee. And the time between pre-approval and formal approval is where deals most commonly fall over. Let’s break…
If you’ve been comparing home loans lately, you’ve probably come across two features that sound almost identical: offset accounts and redraw facilities. Both promise to reduce your interest and help you pay off your loan faster—but which one actually saves you more? The answer isn’t as straightforward as you might think. First things first: how…
Short answer? Yes—you can. But like most things in lending, it’s not always straightforward. If you’re planning for a growing family and a new home at the same time, you’re not alone. The key is understanding how lenders view your situation—and how to position your application so it stacks up. Why maternity leave can complicate…
If you’re thinking about applying for a home loan in 2026, there’s one big misconception we still hear all the time: “If I earn enough, I’ll get approved.” The reality? Income is only one piece of the puzzle. Today’s lenders take a far more detailed and holistic view of your financial life. They’re not just…
At the May board meeting the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has announced its cash rate decision, again lifting the official cash rate by 0.25% to 4.35%. Household budgets are set to be stretched even more after the RBA increased the official cash rate for the 3rd time in 2026. The last time the official…
At the March board meeting the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has announced its cash rate decision, putting further pressure on household budgets. Household budgets are set to be stretched after the RBA announced back-to-back rate hikes. Following its two-day meeting, the central bank on Tuesday lifted the official cash rate by a further 25…
Buying an investment property can be a powerful wealth-building strategy, but only if you go in with your eyes wide open. While property can generate long-term capital growth and rental income, it also comes with a range of financial responsibilities. Here’s how to determine whether you’re financially ready to invest. Understand your borrowing capacity The…
At the February board meeting the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) provided no surprises by lifting the official cash rate by 0.25% to 3.85%. The Reserve Bank Monetary Policy Board has begun a new tightening cycle, increasing the cash rate for the first time in two years. On Tuesday afternoon (3 February), the Reserve Bank…
Buying a home can be one of the most exciting milestones in your life — but it can also feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to navigating the finance side of things. One phrase you’re bound to hear early in the process is “conditional approval” (sometimes also called pre-approval). Understanding what it means — and…
At the December board meeting the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) provided no early Christmas present to home owners and kept the official cash rate on hold. The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has announced that the official cash rate will remain on hold for the next couple of months, after keeping it steady at…