
November Economic update.
Australia CPI data for the September quarter showed prices rising 1.8% from a year ago. This was below expectations of a 2.0% increase. Recent increases in utility prices had a more modest impact on the inflation data than anticipated. Housing and transport costs also continue to rise for most Australians, but weaker food prices dragged down the overall inflation reading. Inflation has undershot the Reserve Bank of Australia’s 2% to 3% CPI target for almost two full years, su

Compare principal and interest and interest-only home loans
Finding out which home loan is right for you depends on your personal situation. Are you looking for a home loan to buy your first home, update your current one or as an investment in retirement? Are you confused by all the jargon and what type of home loan is right for you? We delve into two of the most popular home loans: principal and interest and interest-only. What is a principal and interest home loan? As the name suggests, your loan repayments go towards paying both th

The Australian housing market – what are the key issues?
The cooling in the Sydney and Melbourne property markets evident in late 2015 in response to macro prudential tightening deployed by APRA has proved ephemeral. Price gains have reaccelerated and auction clearance rates & lending to property investors have rebounded. Over the last five years Sydney dwelling prices have risen a ridiculous 73% and Melbourne prices are up 47%. As a result the Australian housing market continues to cause much angst around poor affordability and hi