Property
Shoddy bank record-keeping hits savers as scammers lurk
30 July
Systemic shoddy record-keeping at big banks is risking the savings of Australians trying to benefit from a safe investment strategy. The financial regulator issued the warning around mortgage offset accounts, which are marketed to borrowers as a way...[Read More]
The best and worst ways to live alongside your neighbours
16 July
A good home is about more than the building, the backyard or the location. The people living around you can have a major influence on how comfortable, secure and enjoyable your neighbourhood feels. When neighbours communicate, show consideration...[Read More]
How first-time homebuyers can save $8,500 in taxes
16 July
First-time homebuyers are missing out on thousands of dollars by not using a little-known scheme that helps save them money for the deposit. The First Home Super Saver Scheme lets them take advantage of their superannuation account’s favourable...[Read More]
Energy rollercoaster: Australian bills to fall and rise
16 July
Solar panels, wind farms and cheaper batteries will help to cut Australian electricity bills in the coming years, even as the artificial intelligence boom pushes up the price of gas technology. But energy prices will rise after 2030, a study has...[Read More]
How to save money around the home amidst the rising interest rates
9 July
With interest rates rising almost everywhere, including Australia, people have begun tightening their purse strings as best they can. However, decreasing spending to ensure your expenses match your reduced budget could mean barely any savings or...[Read More]
Family affair: investor tax changes spawn new tactics
9 July
A 1950s red brick walk-up in southwest Brisbane is a window into how the federal budget is reshaping the property market. Marketed as “the ultimate set-up for multi-generational living”, the three-unit apartment block in Oxley has bucked the...[Read More]
Treasurer responds after budget attack by ex-RBA head
1 July
The treasurer has hit back at attacks to budget tax changes from a former Reserve Bank governor after the contentious laws passed parliament. Ex-RBA governor Philip Lowe said changes limiting negative gearing and the capital gains tax discount would...[Read More]
Pledge to fix ‘widow’s tax’ on investment properties
1 July
Treasurer Jim Chalmers has promised to fix laws imposing a so-called “widow’s tax” on investment properties, without providing details on how he will close the loophole. The issue, which relates to investors with jointly owned properties...[Read More]
Home owners told to ‘take a deep breath’ on tax reforms
25 June
Plunging auction clearance rates are not cause for concern, top government ministers are insisting, with one urging anxious home owners to “take a deep breath”. An overhaul of negative gearing and capital gains tax is expected to pass federal...[Read More]
Your home: 7 ways to increase its value and enjoy it more
18 June
Your home is more than bricks, mortar, paint and flooring. It is the place where life happens. It is where families gather, memories are made, visitors are welcomed, and everyday routines unfold. For many people, their home is also one of their...[Read More]
Tax changes spark house listings boom but fewer rentals
18 June
Investors are prematurely offloading their properties before tax changes even hit the market, resulting in a listings boom but fewer rentals. Rental listings across the country have shown large annual falls, with the steepest downturn so far in...[Read More]
CGT share changes will ease home prices, treasurer says
18 June
Controversial tax changes for shares and businesses will prevent more money from being funnelled into existing homes, Treasurer Jim Chalmers claims. Businesses have been relatively receptive to Labor’s decision to wind back tax breaks for property...[Read More]
Nation-first stamp duty cut gains federal endorsement
18 June
State governments have been encouraged to follow the lead of the ACT and abolish stamp duty, but it’s unlikely to happen without Commonwealth support. ACT Treasurer Chris Steel announced all first home buyers would be exempt from paying stamp duty...[Read More]
How to feel more self-sufficient at home
11 June
There is something deeply rewarding about knowing your home can do more than simply provide shelter. A self-sufficient home gives you a greater sense of control, comfort and confidence. It does not mean living completely off-grid, growing every meal...[Read More]
7 signs you are ready to downsize the home and take life a little easier
4 June
There comes a time when the family home that once felt full of noise, movement and memories can start to feel a little too big, too quiet, too expensive or simply too much work. Downsizing is not just about moving into a smaller home. For many...[Read More]