There’s no doubt that one of the key drivers of the incredibly bullish 2021 property market was interest rates sitting at record low levels.

One of the reasons residential real estate is one of the best investment vehicles available to Australians is because of leverage.

The difference between good and bad debt is important to understand and recognise. Owning your own home, cars, dining out, and generally enjoying life, all costs money and may create debt. While debt is an essential part of everyday life, it can also wear out its welcome, and wear down your desire to dream for a better tomorrow. One of the reasons why so many Australians are restricted in their ability to achieve their financial goals is because they are simply ‘drowning’ in debt.

Living life creates debt. Owning your own home, cars, dining out, and generally enjoying life, all costs money, that you can earn from your income or borrow from a financial institution. When you are deep in debt, you restrict your ability to build wealth before you’ve even had the chance to start. That’s why you need an effective debt elimination strategy, a customised plan of action, and a clear understanding of the difference between ‘good’ and ‘bad’ debt.

If you haven’t checked your home loan lately, now could be the time to evaluate your current package while interest rates are at a record low. Carrying out a full financial review on the loans on your principal place of residence and investment properties can improve your cash flow substantially. Sounds appealing.

With so many different types of property investment loans and lenders available it is difficult to know where to begin and how much to borrow. This infographic lists some pros and cons that you can consider when it comes to deciding between a variable and a fixed rate loan to help weigh up which is the better option for you.

A mortgage broker is the middleman between the borrower (yourself) and the lender (banks), who can get you the best home loan or finance to suit your circumstances. Mortgage brokers do all the legwork, researching products on the market from the hundreds available and work directly with the borrower to support you through the application and settlement process. Mortgage brokers will help you have a full understanding of the paperwork and terms and conditions before signing the bottom line. Here are 6 benefits of using a mortgage broker.