Australian personal finance news, tips and advices.
by AFB
With the end of financial year upon us, so much attention surrounds how to get the most out of your tax, but there is real merit in planning all year round and saving important dollars too. It’s not just about saving at tax time!
Rate Detective CEO, Damon Rasheed (former economist for the ACCC) has some great tips on how to start the new financial year smarter, healthier and with peace of mind. Remove the stress of 30 June by using Damon’s advice to ensure your finances are in shape. ... (read more)
by AFB
Compensation for this post was provided by Choosewell.
The private health insurance industry has found itself in a bit of a pickle after customer advocacy group Choice recently ousted several major providers as proponents of ‘junk’ health insurance policies. Arguing that these policies represent a complete waste of money for consumers, Choice has demanded attention from the Federal Government. ... (read more)
by AFB
This post is a response to Saundra Latham’s great article about the best home equity loan rates for 2016 (US), posted on the The Simple Dollar.
Paying off a mortgage results in more than just owning a home. The value of your home is a form of savings that provides negotiating power for other loan arrangements or investments. For many people, the downside of making regular mortgage repayments is the lack of ready cash or additional savings potential. A home equity loan can provide the solution, by allowing home owners to borrow money against the value of their home. This money can be used for any number of home improvements or other purposes. ... (read more)
by AFB
In 2014, changes were introduced into credit score reports. History regarding personal loans is now scrutinised more thoroughly by lenders, meaning that if you have successfully paid off a personal loan on time and on schedule it will positively affect your credit score. On the other hand, defaults or recurring late payments will reflect badly on your credit score.
The changes to the system provide a more comprehensive overview of an individuals capacity for sound money management. Rather than only negative ‘black marks’ showing up on the credit report, positive information is also taken into account. Lenders and service providers will take previous financial management into consideration. ... (read more)
by AFB
In essence, it would seem that getting a credit card is easy. After all, credit card company representatives are out and about on the streets and in shopping malls signing up new customers all the time. However, filling out the form is only the first step, and your credit score will be used to determine if you are actually wanted as a customer. So, what credit score is actually needed to get a credit card? ... (read more)
by AFB
For most of us, purchasing a house and a car are two major situations where borrowing money is essential. They are significant financial outlays that require dedicated effort to pay off over a long period of time. Banks and other lending institutions rely on our credit score for approval of loans, so what credit score is needed to buy a house or car?
Credit scores are the safeguard banks use to protect themselves against the possibility of loan defaults. They are based on a range of data related to the borrowers previous financial accountability and present financial status. Whether we like it or not, our credit score is a personalised risk assessment, and involves disclosure of both good and bad financial dealings. The positive and negative are taken into consideration for our individual credit score. ... (read more)
by AFB
Paying off a home loan mortgage takes a dedicated effort over a number of years. During this time your personal circumstances might change, finances could fluctuate, and lenders will vary their interest repayment rates according to financial markets. As a borrower, you may be on the lookout for a better deal, but there are a range of factors to consider before moving ahead and refinancing your loan. ... (read more)
by AFB
There are a number of factors that will determine the amount you can borrow for your home. Before commencing the search for your ideal property, you will need to get an accurate idea of how much money you have to work with.
Your bank or credit provider is taking a calculated risk every time they lend money. In order to minimise the risk they will require proof of your ability to repay the loan, and an up-front deposit to protect themselves against any loss if the loan is terminated early. ... (read more)
by AFB
For most people, buying a home is the most significant financial investment they will make. A sizeable loan is usually required, and repayments are generally spread out over many years. Therefore, it’s important to also invest a little time into understanding your options and getting a deal that suits you. Let’s begin by learning the basics of how a home loan works.
Before discussing the different types of home loans it will help to understand what all home loans have in common. ... (read more)
by AFB
Sometimes, despite the best intentions, an accident or illness can affect you or your loved ones. Such times are distressing for the individual concerned, and can also be disruptive to any business or workplace. Every situation is different, but a time could come when you are called upon to care for a close relative or household member. Fortunately, all full and part-time employees are eligible to take paid or unpaid carer’s leave in times of emergency. ... (read more)