Breaking out of mortgage prison: can easing serviceability buffers help?

Have you been keen to refinance but told you can’t? You’re not alone. Many Australian households are currently locked into their home loans due to rising interest rates. But some banks have recently started to lower their serviceability thresholds.  As interest rates have climbed, Australians have refinanced in unprecedented numbers. In fact, a record high of … Continue reading Breaking out of mortgage prison: can easing serviceability buffers help?

Homebuying intentions climb as Aussies untie themselves from rental crunch

Despite the soaring cost of living and successive interest rate hikes, homebuying intentions have climbed, latest data shows. So why are so many people still chasing the great Australian dream? And what can you do to make your own dream a reality? Despite a flurry of rate rises, new data this month shows homeownership is … Continue reading Homebuying intentions climb as Aussies untie themselves from rental crunch

Mortgage serviceability: how to jump through the hoops

Mortgage serviceability can feel like a frustrating hurdle to clear. But it’s an important safeguard against borrowing too much, particularly in the current interest rate landscape.  It’s in the best interests of all parties involved if your mortgage is chugging along with regular repayments being made. Borrowing an amount you don’t have a hope in … Continue reading Mortgage serviceability: how to jump through the hoops

RBA attempts to beat back inflation with another rate hike, up to 4.10%

Drumroll … The RBA has hiked the official cash rate for the 12th time since April 2022, increasing it to 4.10%. How much will this increase your monthly repayments? And how long does Philip Lowe plan to keep marching to this beat? Another month, another 25 basis point cash rate rise. It’s now apparent the … Continue reading RBA attempts to beat back inflation with another rate hike, up to 4.10%