Financing
Mortgage prisoners were supposed to get an escape plan. What happened?
An average wage earner who took out a large home loan and wants to switch banks might struggle now. Is there any relief?
- by Kate Burke
Latest
Struggling to buy a home? This graph shows why you’re not alone
In several past property booms, first home buyer activity has been steady. But that wasn’t the case in the past three years.
- by Jim Malo
How the average family was left more than $300,000 out of pocket
Despite the latest pause, the string of interest rate rises over the past year have squeezed many households in ways they didn’t expect.
- by Elizabeth Redman
Bank of Mum and Dad, be warned if your kids haven’t bought a home by 30
Young people are struggling to get onto the property ladder compared with previous generations – but that changes when they’re given two things.
- by Elizabeth Redman
This year’s house price rise was a shock. But history left some clues behind
Property prices have been on the rise since the summer, although there’s little relief in sight for home buyers’ budgets – but there’s a precedent.
- by Jim Malo
The graph that shows stressed property owners may be starting to crack
There has been an unseasonal increase in the number of homes for sale, as soaring mortgage repayments stretch some households’ finances beyond what they can manage.
- by Elizabeth Redman
Mortgage affordability worst since 1990 for house buyers
Even though the cash rate is nowhere near the double digits it reached in 1990, property prices have skyrocketed relative to incomes.
- by Tawar Razaghi
As interest rates rise, a last-resort plan to slash home-loan costs
Mortgage brokers are getting calls from homeowners seeking a bigger change than refinancing or asking for a better deal, but it’s not for everyone.
- by Jim Malo
‘Rein in my choices’: Rate rises squeeze Melbourne homeowners
Chelsea Brown has cut back on going to restaurants and cafes, but as interest rates rise, even an errant light left on in an empty room draws her attention.
- by Jim Malo
The hidden trap for home buyers and owners wanting a career change
Late January is the peak time to think about getting a better job, but anyone hoping to buy a home or refinance a mortgage, be warned.
- by Jim Malo
The looming home loan risk keeping property experts up at night
It is a change from this time last year when booming prices and ultra-low interest rates created a different set of headaches.
- by Elizabeth Redman