Making extra repayments on your home loan can be a clever financial strategy. Investing your extra cash into your home can speed up your loan’s life cycle, with the added benefit of saving money in the long run. Here are some tips that can help you...
Considering transforming your home from ‘banal’ to ‘brilliant’, but lack the funds to support your makeover? Never fear, we’ve rounded up five home renovation finance options that could help turn your dream into reality. 1. Equity release / top up home loanAn equity release/top up loan...
Self-employed borrowers often come up against the challenge of not being able to present a raft of payslips and tax returns to back up their loan applications, but this need not stop you buying your dream home. Many lenders offer low-documentation (lo-doc) loans for self-employed borrowers...
Paying off your mortgage early will save you money and take a financial load off your shoulders. Here are some ways to get rid of your mortgage debt faster. Switch to fortnightly payments If you're currently paying monthly, consider switching to fortnightly repayments. By paying half the...
A mortgage is a long-term commitment, which many people enter with a ‘set and forget’ mentality. Most loans are around 30 years – during which many things can change, not just in your personal circumstances but in the financial world, with the new loan products...
Refinancing can be a great way to save money if you believe you are paying too much for your loan, but there is more to it than just finding a loan with a lower interest rate and making the change. Before making the switch, ensure...
Nailing your home loan application depends on four factors — your income, expenditure, assets, and debts. But lenders also want to see evidence of a savings and (good) credit history. Here’s what you can do to improve these. 1. Start saving. Make a plan. In 2013, the...
Amortisation period The time taken to repay a debt, including accrued interest, in full through regular repayments. Basis points Refer to a common unit of measure for interest rates and other percentages. One basis point equals 0.01 per cent. For example, 50 basis points equal 0.50 per cent. Break...
In today’s challenging financial climate, saving enough money for a house deposit can seem out of reach for many. While there are various Government grants available, not everyone is eligible, and some are turning towards their parents for help. Let’s look at some of the ways...
Investing on behalf of your children can help give them a financial leg up and introduce them to good financial practice at an early age. However It’s important to pick the right vehicle. Tax, social security and the appropriate structure will all affect your decision. Whether it’s...
He is also an accomplished presenter and educator
Co-authoring the popular investment book, Property vs Shares.