Rising costs of living, increasing interest rates and high prices have all combined to create the imperfect storm for struggling first-home buyers. However, if every cloud has a silver lining then the ray of light this new financial year is the boosted array of government...
When purchasing an investment property, there are a number of factors that could increase or reduce your potential return on investment. In this case it's not just location, location, location. When considering a property for investment purposes, the most important question to ask is 'will be...
After a period when even the best laid plans have been put on hold due to COVID-19, people who were planning to retire soon may be having second thoughts. You may be concerned about a drop in your super balance, insecure work, or an uncertain...
It’s been a rocky start to the year on world markets but that doesn’t mean you should hit the panic button. Staying the course is generally the best course, but that’s easier said than done when there’s a big market fall. In January markets plunged some...
It probably comes as no surprise to anyone that there is a significant underinsurance gap between what we would need to maintain our standard of living should the unthinkable happen, and what we are actually covered for in the way of insurance. Australia is one of...
It seems like June 30 rolls around quicker every year, so why wait until the last minute to get your finances in order? With all the disruption and special support measures of the past two years, it’s possible your finances have changed. So it’s a good...
Here are a few Australian road trips to put in the diary for your next romantic getaway. Valentine’s Day comes and goes each year, flying past faster than cupid’s arrow. But with so many spectacular driving routes on offer in Australia, why wait for February 14?...
When faced with a specific task or journey we need to anchor to what is important to us and focus our attention on deliberate steps forward, writes Darren Smith. For a moment I want you to close your eyes and imagine you are on the roof...
If so, you may wish to hold off until April 2022 - so you can benefit from the changes to the downsizer superannuation contribition rules which take effect on July 1st! Currently if you downsize your home and you are over age 65, then you (and...
Asset rich and income poor is the dilemma faced by many retirees. But there may be opportunities to boost your income in retirement by tapping into your biggest asset – your home. With property prices booming, many retirees are finding that the home they have lived...
He is also an accomplished presenter and educator
Co-authoring the popular investment book, Property vs Shares.