rba-announcements

November RBA announcement 2017

 

At today’s board meeting the Reserve Bank decided to leave the cash rate unchanged at the all-time low rate of 1.50%.

Did you have a small flutter on the big race today? If so, we hope you picked a winner!

Melbourne cup race day is, for most of the nation, a once a year day of fun, frivolity and a chance to take a flutter to back a winner.

However, on a more serious note, when it comes to choosing the best home loan, it pays NOT to gamble so quickly with your options.

By using a finance specialist like ourselves, who tracks the finance market every day, we can improve YOUR ODDS in finding YOU the best finance solution.

Keep reading below to take the guess work out of choosing your next home loan, and allow us to help you back a finance winner.

As always, we are here for a chat about your finance options anytime. Feel free to call.

With your BEST INTEREST ALWAYS in mind…

Quantum Investor

The Melbourne Cup is not only known as the race that stops a nation, but also the most difficult race to pick a winner given the field comprises the best of the best. You can however improve your odds when picking a home loan!

The odds

Just because a horse has the shortest odds on the day does not guarantee it will ‘WIN’. Similarly, a home loan with the lowest interest rate does not mean it is going to be the cheapest or best home loan for you.

No two horses are the same

It’s difficult to pick the winning horse as there are many factors contributing to the likelihood of a horse winning: track conditions, weather, horse size, handicap weight, jockey experience, barrier draw and probably even a little bit of luck.

Home loans are similar to horses in that there are many varying attributes:

  • interest rates
  • introduction rates
  • application fees
  • valuation fees
  • transaction fees
  • monthly account fees
  • no monthly fees, and

the list goes on, making it confusing to select the winner.

Choosing a home loan does not have to be a gamble – like betting on a horse.

Improving the odds

While the best way to improve your odds for picking the winning horse may be to obtain a trainer’s tip or rumour, comparing mortgages is a little easier – especially with our help! While a low interest rate might give the appearance of being a winner, it does not necessarily factor in all the additional costs associated with the loan.

One way of determining the TRUE cost of a loan is checking the comparison rate. We have access to comparison tools to quickly and easily review rates and products across different lenders. Speak to us and we will do the legwork for you!

Comparing the odds?

While the comparison rate can be used as a guide it is also very important to consider the features of each loan. We are familiar with the different products and can make sure that we are comparing similar products with the features you actually need and want.

It is not all about the odds

The cheapest home loan is not necessarily the best home loan for you – one of the key factors in home loan selection is matching the home loan to your goals and objectives – both short and long-term.

There are many other considerations other than the financial cost that needs to be explored. What are your future financial goals? What features might you need to best support them such as access to a redraw facility or offset account or bundling with other financial products?

Picking a winner

While picking a winning home loan is not as difficult as picking the winning horse, consulting with a lending specialist will definitely improve your odds.

We present you with a range of options, explain the different products and then YOU make the final decision. Even as experts in this industry we can spend up to 10 hours or more comparing finance for you and working out the correct structure for both now and your future requirements – and we know what we’re doing.

Call the office today to find out more about the field of home loans currently competing to win your business.

We hope you have enjoyed this month’s read, had some luck on the Cup and we look forward to hearing from you soon.

Disclaimer: This article is generic in nature. All investment decisions should be considered wisely and based on your personal and financial circumstances. Seek proper advice before committing to any course of investment action. This is not deemed as advice. ©2017

 

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October RBA announcement 2017

At today’s board meeting the Reserve Bank left the cash rate unchanged at 1.50%. It has now been at the same level for 12 months!

The Big 4 banks have certainly been in the news this year. With such a dominant profile it’s understandable that many people believe all lenders are the same. You might be surprised!

Make sure you read this month’s article ‘More than the Big 4… What do YOU know about the Australian lender market?’ and explore YOUR options.

As your finance specialist, comparing loan products across a range of lenders is one of our key advantages. We take the hard work, time and confusion out of the search for better finance.

If you are wondering if we can negotiate a better finance arrangement for you then give us a call TODAY.

We look forward to hearing from you…

Quantum Investor

 

The ‘Big 4′ banks have maintained a dominant profile in the complex and ever-changing Australian finance market – just think about how often you read about them in the news! And it is this high profile in our everyday lives that has contributed to a perception that all lenders are the same.

Is that what you think? In fact, Australian consumers are spoilt for choice…

Did you know there are over 40 banks (plus multiple foreign bank branches) and around 60 credit unions and building societies in Australia1 as well as a number of non-bank lenders?

Of course if you are receiving this email you would already know that one of the key advantages of using our services – as your finance specialist – is that we have access to a range of lenders when seeking a loan that may be suitable for your individual circumstances. We are not tied to just one lender and their available loan products.

So what IS the difference between lender types?

Banks

  • Banks are authorised deposit taking institutions (ADIs) and can use their own funds to provide home loans.

  • They provide integrated banking packages including savings, transaction accounts and credit cards.

  • Wide branch networks provide additional service but also contribute significantly to overhead costs.

Second tier banks

  • Second tier banks are those that are not part of the Big 4. They include a surprising number of household names such as ING Direct, Bank of Queensland, Macquarie Bank, Suncorp, ME Bank, Bendigo and Adelaide Bank, St George, Bankwest, Citibank and AMP Bank.

  • While some are now owned by the big banks it is worth considering their competitive offerings.

Building societies and credit unions

  • These non-profit cooperatives are owned by the people who use their services so each member is both a customer and a shareholder.

  • Rates can be very competitive.

  • Member deposits are used to fund loans.

  • Like banks they offer a wide variety of banking facilities with a focus on customer service.

  • They are regulated in the same way as banks.

Non bank lenders

  • They do not hold an Australian banking licence so cannot accept deposits therefore they source wholesale funding via investors, financiers, trusts and even the ‘Big 4′ banks.

  • They do not have the overheads of an extensive branch or ATM network.

  • The appeal for customers has been competitive interest rates, more flexible lending criteria (eg for low doc or non-conforming loans) and higher loan to valuation ratios (LVRs). Low rates are however often balanced by higher fees.

  • An emphasis on customer service, faster loan processing times and responsiveness are other selling points compared to the big banks.

  • Tend to have limited products and services so they may not be suitable for all your financial needs.

So do we recommend the ‘Big 4′ to clients?

The Big 4 are strong competitors with broad product ranges so if they have a solution suitable for your individual circumstances then of course we do. However we may also recommend second tier banks or non-bank lenders if their product, pricing and services are ideal for you.

Most importantly, you will have the confidence of knowing we only recommend lenders that have provided a good personal experience for other clients.

Call our office today if you would like us to take the legwork out of your search for lenders.

 

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September RBA announcement 2017

At today’s board meeting the Reserve Bank left the cash rate unchanged at 1.50%. It has now been at the same level for 12 months!

Research shows about one fifth of retirees are currently spending their super at ‘unsustainable’ levels – and that percentage is expected to grow as more of us enter retirement!

Why are so many of us running out of money? Make sure you read this month’s article ’20% of retirees will run out of money!’ to find out!

Even if retirement SEEMS a long way off it’s NEVER too early to start planning…

Remember, we don’t just arrange loans – we can also help you financially structure your property investment according to your individual situation. We can calculate how much you could afford to borrow and explain how to use your home equity to help build a solid financial future. Give us a call TODAY.

We look forward to hearing from you…

Quantum Investor

 

Research shows about 20% of retirees are spending their super at ‘unsustainable’ levels. What does that mean? It means about one-fifth of us will most likely outlive our retirement savings. And…

This percentage is predicted to rise as more of us enter retirement! Recent research shows 54% of pre-retirees (55 and over) are financially unprepared for retirement and only 8% are financially prepared.

So WHY are retirees running out of money?

  • One of the primary reasons is simply because we are living longer. Australia is in the top 5 countries for life expectancy – if you’re aged 64 now you can expect to spend about 20 years in retirement.

  • Medical advancements have also meant that many of us are more physically and socially active in retirement than previous generations. That’s a wonderful bonus for us but NOT so beneficial for our super balance!

  • There has been a seismic shift in expectations of what ‘modern’ retirement entails – we now want a slice of the ‘good life’ after years of working. This is having a significant impact on how retirees use their savings.

  • Lastly, it has been suggested that our cultural tendency towards a ‘she’ll be right mate’ attitude has lulled us into a false sense of security.

Minimum drawdown rates
The government mandates a minimum amount retirees should draw down from their superannuation pension each year. Data supplied from super funds shows that over the past decade 50% of these superannuation pensions are being drawn down at above these minimum rates. Interestingly, the balance ‘size’ did not appear to affect people’s decision on how much to withdraw.

So… Do you think YOUR super will go the distance?

What is the alternative?
We know you’ve heard this before BUT… the majority of retired Australians rely on the age pension. In 2017 that amounts to a maximum of $669.60 per fortnight each for couples and $888.30 per fortnight for singles.

You can certainly see that reliance on the pension as your sole source of income would probably mean your retirement may not look quite like what you had planned.

So what steps do you need to take NOW?
If you fall into the ‘pre-retiree’ category (and let’s face it, that’s ALL of us who haven’t yet retired – no matter WHAT age we are now) then planning is the key. The earlier you start, the better!

Depending on your current age this may involve a short, medium or long term strategy. Statistics show 44.5% of homeowners aged 55-64 had an outstanding mortgage debt in 2013-14 – almost triple the level of 1995-96! Clearly, paying down debt and maximising our retirement savings are key considerations for most of us when planning the lifestyle we want in retirement.

Remember, you are never too young to start thinking about your future. Time and capital growth don’t wait for anyone so the time to start thinking about your retirement is right NOW!

We would welcome the opportunity to discuss your financial future at any time – call us for an appointment TODAY.

There are many wealth creation options available to help fund your future retirement. The most effective option? Taking ACTION now is a good start!

 

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August RBA announcement 2017

At today’s board meeting the Reserve Bank left the cash rate unchanged at 1.50%. It has now been at the same level for 12 months!

With a constant flow of news about changes in the finance world, it’s little wonder that recent research showed many consumers are becoming ‘switched off’ about finance.

The problem is when your home loan is probably the biggest financial commitment you have, can you afford to be switched off? That lack of interest could be costing you money!

If you haven’t thought about reviewing your home loan for a while then make sure you read this month’s article “Your interest rate may not be what it seems…”

Remember, it is OUR JOB to keep abreast of industry changes and do the hard work for you. If you would like to explore your financial options then give us a call TODAY.

We look forward to hearing from you…

Quantum Investor

 

 

At a time of almost constant (even daily) changes in the finance world – and an absolute overload of information online – it’s easy to see why some consumers are becoming ‘switched off’.

A recent study about financial literacy found 57% of respondents didn’t know that banks determine actual interest rates – not the RBA. It also found 36% didn’t realise if they reduced the length of their loan they reduced the amount of interest they paid!

What does that tell us? Well…
It tells us there are potentially a LOT of people who could be enjoying savings on their home loan AND other loan products – if only they knew how.

So how important is financial literacy?
Let’s face it, many of us find the ever-changing world of finance and banking complex. And yes… pretty dull. But a lack of interest in educating ourselves about our home loan – usually the BIGGEST financial commitment we have – is often costing us money!

It’s interesting that the same survey found 74% of us don’t know what a comparison rate is…

Do you? And what SHOULD you know?

Comparison rates
Lenders are legally required to display a comparison rate when advertising most loans. This is a tool to help identify the true cost of a loan by combining all components into a single percentage rate*. It includes:

  • the loan amount
  • the loan term
  • the repayment frequency
  • the interest rate, and
  • the fees and charges connected with the loan**

For example, at the time of writing this article, one lender was advertising an interest rate of 3.78%. Sounds good, doesn’t it? But the comparison rate was 4.36%. Now that’s a difference of $580 interest each year for every $100,000 of borrowing you have. That is a little over $2,000 per annum on the average Australian loan.

The mandatory comparison rate was initially introduced to stop lenders advertising very low-interest rates that lured borrowers into loans that actually ended up costing more than they expected. A low rate may look attractive at first glance but it doesn’t always mean it is the lowest rate.

While the comparison rate can be used as a guide it is also important to consider the features of the loan and how these may benefit your particular circumstances and future goals. The rate alone should NOT be your sole consideration when obtaining finance.

Remember, whether you are looking to buy your first home, upgrade, downsize, refinance, invest in property or even buying a new car, as your finance specialist it is our job to do the research for you to determine the loan product most suitable for your circumstances.

Mortgage brokers now account for more than 50% of the home loan market. There is a good reason for that! We have to constantly adapt with the times, the policies and the changing finance market to provide more than just a loan service.

We are your finance concierge, educator, confidant and specialist working for YOUR best finance options without the trickery of advertising low-interest rates as a lure for your business.

If you are thinking of reviewing your current loan – DON’T do it alone!

Our role as your finance specialist is to help you make the best financial decision for your personal situation. We consider such factors as:

  • how long you are planning on having the loan
  • your employment status, age, and financial position
  • what job/personal circumstances may be happening in your future
  • your family situation and potential future financial expenses (known and unforeseen)

AND we look at more than one lender for your solution.

 

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July RBA announcement 2017

 

THIS COULD BE THE MOST IMPORTANT EMAIL YOU WILL READ THIS MONTH…

 

At today’s board meeting the Reserve Bank decided to leave the cash rate unchanged at 1.50%.

You may have noticed that the RBA cash rate remains steady month after month. And YET lenders are regularly increasing interest rates!

Regardless of whether you are a homeowner, an investor or a future property buyer these finance industry changes WILL have a knock on effect!

Whatever you do make sure you read this month’s article ‘Get ready to knuckle down! Sweeping changes to the finance industry WILL affect you!’

AND THEN – do our mortgage stress test!

As your finance specialist we are here to guide you through changing times – so give us a call TODAY.

We look forward to hearing from you…

 

Quantum Investor

 

 

You have probably noticed in recent months that financial institutions have started to increase interest rates independently of the Reserve Bank’s decision to keep the cash rate on hold.

Not only are interest rates increasing but financial institutions are now starting to significantly change the lending rules and criteria sometimes on a weekly – and even daily – basis.

  • Interest only loans are under scrutiny, for investors AND owner occupiers
  • Preferred lending ratios are decreasing – that means larger deposits are required
  • Lending criteria is tightening, particularly for investors and off the plan purchases – potentially a headache for those who entered into contracts at a more flexible time
  • Bank valuations are starting to come in lower than expected in most states across Australia

If you have been sitting on the fence waiting for lower interest rates or looking to refinance your debt, then your opportunity may already be lost.

We are finding loans that were easily financed only a few months ago are now not being approved by many lenders.

What is driving the constant changes?

At a time of record low-interest rates, you would expect the news for borrowers to be all good!

Instead, lenders and regulators tend to become very nervous about how borrowers will manage their debt when interest rates eventually rise, so they take steps to lessen the impact.

Bank lending rules are not a set and forget. Lenders introduce changes over time largely due to funding pressures. In addition, APRA (Australian Prudential Regulation Authority) has continued to exert pressure on lenders in an effort to slow down lending in a low-interest rate environment.

With constantly shifting goalposts there has possibly never been a more important time to regularly review your home loan and take steps to protect yourself from any future mortgage stress.

What are the signs of potential mortgage stress?

  • If you are living week to week now, you will not survive a rate increase. CALL US URGENTLY before it is too late.
  • If you have multiple investment loans and are highly geared, DO NOT CALL YOUR BANK FOR A REVIEW – you could end up in a worse situation. Call our office.
  • If you have an INTEREST ONLY loan coming off the fixed interest period, CALL US URGENTLY.
  • IF YOU HAVE ANY FINANCE COMING OFF the fixed interest period in the next 3-6 months. Call us.
  • If you have a loan approval in place that is older than 1 month, call us to confirm your approval terms HAVE NOT CHANGED.
  • If your credit cards are maxed out and you are struggling to pay out the balance – yes, you too need to call us.

How can we help?

  • We do all the research (that takes time and patience) to understand different lending products and can recommend several options for you across many different lenders. Your bank can not do that.
  • We are a professional service provider and we educate you throughout your finance journey with us and beyond.
  • When rapid changes are happening in the world of finance, we are best equipped across the range of lending products to help you identify how to get through these changes and come out singing!

These are interesting times and although we are currently in a low-interest-rate environment, that doesn’t stop the landscape from changing.

You are best to catch up with us at least every 18 months – preferably every 12 months. Even just a 10-minute phone call to the office may help relieve the stress of not knowing whether you should be taking action.

It is much easier for us to help you BEFORE mortgage stress sets in. Please do not leave it until it’s too late for us to review your finance.

Call the office TODAY because we are going to be busy over the coming months.

If you have friends or family, please forward this article on to them as well. We want to help everyone else you know who has a mortgage to be informed.

Wait – there is good news!

Before you head off from this article, please envisage a relaxing stress-free holiday all paid for… to take those finance worries away. Enter our competition for your chance to win this magical holiday.

Every time you share this with your friends and family, you will get more entries. As they say, ‘you gotta be in it – to win it!’

We look forward to your urgent call.

 

 

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June RBA announcement 2017

At today’s board meeting the Reserve Bank decided to leave the cash rate unchanged at 1.50%.

Studies show about HALF of older working Australians will retire with debt. That’s a worrying trend!


Did you also know there are changes to our superannuation system from 1 July? Will they affect you? Or your future plans?

Make sure you read this month’s article ‘Change is coming 1 July. Super!’

Regardless of your age – or stage of life – decisions about retirement affect all of us eventually. The earlier we start planning the easier some of those decisions may be…

As your finance specialist we are here to help guide you through every financial stage of your life. Want to explore your future options? Give us a call TODAY.

We look forward to hearing from you…

Quantum Investor

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Okay, so maybe you’re thinking that retirement for you is a long way off? Should you be worried?

A recent study found up to 50% of older working Australians are expected to retire with debt and around 20% are expected to retire with a mortgage.

So what do you think is one of the primary reasons for this level of debt? It’s the sandwich!

The trend has largely been attributed to our current older generation being the first ‘sandwich’ generation. Many over the 50s are under financial pressure from intergenerational dependency resulting in almost $200 billion being contributed to both their parents and children in their lifetime.

The study estimated around 72% of this is going towards education, home deposits and other expenses for adult children over 18.

Interestingly, mortgage debt has been identified as a significant contributor to financial stress during retirement.

So do you think this trend will continue for the NEXT generation of retirees? Well…

Probably – unless we learn from it!

So how DO YOU plan for a successful financial future?

Of course, there is always our superannuation – but super is just ONE component of planning for future retirement. The path to wealth creation can take many forms.

As your finance specialist, we can assist you to explore options suitable to your particular circumstances. We can also introduce other specialists in the finance industry to support your path to wealth creation.

Did you also know there are upcoming changes to Australia’s superannuation system as of 1 July?

Most changes to the super system initially announced in the May 2016 budget commence from 1 July 2017. The changes will potentially affect our super contributions and the way super and retirement income is taxed.

You may not be affected, however, it certainly pays to find out IF and HOW the changes could affect YOU – whether that be now or further down the track. After all, your super is YOUR money!

Here is a general overview of some of the changes and who they may affect:

Low-income earners (earning less than $40,000 pa)

  • Change to spouse tax offset
  • New low-income super tax offset (LISTO)
  • New ability to ‘carry forward’ your super cap
  • Change to government super co-contributions

Retirees or people approaching retirement

  • Earnings on transition to retirement (TTR) pensions taxed up to 15% (currently NOT taxed)
  • For the first time, there will be a limit on how much super can be transferred to a tax-free account-based super pension

High-income earners (earning more than $250,000)

  • Division 293 tax threshold reduced from $300,000 to $250,000 affecting more higher income earners

There is also a reduction to before and after tax contribution limits that may affect all income levels.

Financial commentators generally agree the new super rules can be complex. Ultimately, the impact of changes will depend on your financial situation and stage of life.

There are strict rules in place as to who can give you financial advice so you should always seek independent financial advice to determine how these changes may apply to your individual circumstances.

Remember! It’s NEVER too early to start planning for a debt free retirement but it can certainly be TOO LATE!

And should you help your kids before you help yourself? Ask us that question when we next chat.

If you have not had a finance review for over 18 months, we recommend you call us ASAP to ensure you have the right finance arrangement heading into the new financial year.

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May RBA announcement 2017

 

At today’s board meeting the Reserve Bank decided to leave the cash rate unchanged at 1.50%.

The Federal Budget will be revealed this week and all indications are it will include initiatives to assist first home buyers to do what they ALL want to do. Buy a home!

So… Are you ready to act?

Whether you have been planning and saving for a while or you’re just starting out on the path to future home ownership we suggest you scroll down and make sure you read this month’s article ‘First home buyers stay tuned…’

And THEN, we suggest you give us a call!

We look forward to hearing from you…

 

Quantum Investor

 

 

 

The Federal Budget is looming AND there are rumoured initiatives to help first home buyers (FHBs) into the property market. So if you – or your children – are potential FHB’s it might pay to stay tuned…

Housing affordability has been a hot topic as a barrier to entry into the Australian property market. Despite this, the younger generation ARE starting to enter the property market in a variety of ways – as singles, couples, rent investors, in co-ownership and also with help from family.

So if extra government initiatives are possibly in the wings what NEW opportunities might this open up for potential FHBs?

Will you be ready to act?

Going it alone

One of the biggest hurdles for many FHBs is the deposit – on average it takes a working couple 4 years to save 20% deposit1. With price increases in some areas the required deposit could increase faster than it can be saved!

Don’t yet have 20%?

Some lenders will allow you to enter into a home loan with less than 20% however lenders mortgage insurance (LMI) will then apply. LMI covers the lender but is paid by the purchaser. A one-off premium can potentially run into tens of thousands of dollars and is rolled into the mortgage by the lender.

The dilemma for many FHBs is whether paying LMI and getting into the market NOW is more beneficial than waiting and watching prices increase. That’s a discussion that is worth having with us – your finance specialist.

Are there alternatives to 4 years of saving?

 

The bank of Mum and Dad…

In 2010 the average helping hand from parents was $23,000 – today it is more than $80,0002. In fact the bank of Mum and Dad is one of the fastest growing finance sources in Australia! The percentage of FHBs receiving help from family to enter the property market has more than doubled since the 1970s3.

But parents don’t necessarily have to contribute the whole deposit. If FHBs don’t have quite enough now to avoid LMI family may be able to assist with a guarantor loan for the shortfall to 20% and/or other upfront costs.

Of course not every family is in a position to help nor should we enter into home ownership seeing it as a short term goal. Saving the deposit is just the start – home ownership will probably require trimming expenses and making sacrifices for the foreseeable future.

If added incentives become a reality it’s certainly worth doing the sums to see if this may assist you to take action sooner.

Interest rates remain at an all-time low but they WILL increase at some point. While lenders generally determine loan serviceability on a higher rate it may be preferable to borrow less than you can afford to build in breathing space. Other strategies worth considering might include:

  • Your FIRST property doesn’t need to be your dream home. Perhaps consider entering the market with a smaller, cheaper property? If you rent it out while continuing to live at home and save you may find your savings plus equity over time will assist you towards your dream home.
  • Consider co-ownership with family or friends now with a view to going it alone further down the track.

The most important step is to DO YOUR HOMEWORK. As your finance specialist we can help you explore any new initiatives and options that may be suitable to YOU and your individual circumstances.

 

 

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April RBA announcement 2017

At today’s board meeting the Reserve Bank decided to leave the cash rate unchanged at 1.50%.

The RBA cash rate has been relatively steady at a historical low for quite some time now. So have you noticed that many lenders are increasing their interest rates regardless of the steadiness of the cash rate?

You might be wondering… What’s that all about?

We suggest you scroll down and read this month’s article ‘The cash rate remains steady but our bank interest rates rise??’ Then…

MAKE SURE you complete our ’5-minute finance health check’.

We look forward to hearing from you…

Quantum Investor

Once upon a time when the cash rate moved (up or down), most lenders would typically move their interest rate in alignment with the cash rate change.

Have you noticed that when the cash rate moves up the lenders are quick to pounce on an increase and pass these increases on to us – the consumer – immediately?

AND have you noticed that when the cash rate goes down it can take at least a month for them to respond and for them to pass on the savings?

If you have been paying attention over the last few weeks, the major banks have increased their rates independently of the Reserve Bank’s monthly decision to keep the cash rate unchanged.

Not only are they penalising investors (those who provide public housing), but now owner occupiers are taking a hit as well. Even small business variable loans are being increased. We hear all the time that the banks are hiking up their rates in response to increased funding costs (which is true – but that’s another story), however, it is still a hard pill to swallow when they announce their multi-million dollar profits each year.

So what can YOU do as a consumer of lending products?

Pay attention!

According to a major study reported only 12 months ago, 90% of homeowners DO NOT KNOW THEIR CURRENT INTEREST RATE1. And even more concerning is that the average Aussie pays up to 1.75% more interest on their home loan than the lowest rate available. That’s just over $5,000 PER YEAR for an average home loan of about $435,000 (in NSW).

You would also be aware if you have dealt with us before, the lowest interest rate is not always the best interest rate. However when we see research results indicating 90% of Australians do not know their current interest rate, then it begs to ask the question…

When was your last finance review?

If it hasn’t been in the last 18 months, then it is pretty easy to suggest that there may be additional savings we could be finding for you. The CASH RATE has dropped 100 basis points (1%) in the last 2 years. How confident are you that your lender passed all of these savings on to you?

Sometimes we don’t even have to change your lender to get you a better rate. Just ask us and we will negotiate this for you.

We know (from all the years we have been in the finance industry) that your current lender IS NOT going to call you and tell you they are offering better deals to new clients (rather than looking after their existing, longer term and loyal clients) AND they will certainly not tell you that there is a better deal with another lender.

The BIG four are not the only lenders in the marketplace. There are many other lenders in the marketplace who can provide similar offerings and sometimes even better facilities for your personal situation.

That’s why we are here for you.

To do all the ground work and find a financial offering that not only suits your needs and circumstances but to guide you through your financial journey as life and the world around us changes.

Jump on the phone or email us today to secure a conversation on how we may be able to improve your financial position.

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March RBA announcement 2017

Australia’s historically low-interest rates are still very much in the news but there are OTHER home loan features that could potentially save you many thousands over the life of your loan.

Worryingly, recent research shows a lot of us lack an understanding of some basic home loan features – and how to use them most effectively TO SAVE US MONEY.

Why not try our quick quiz to test how much YOU know about YOUR home loan?

Scroll down and read ‘Test your home loan knowledge! Take this quick quiz…’ Then give us a call.

And don’t forget to enter our competition for a trip to Santorini. It could be a win/win!

 

We look forward to hearing from you…

Quantum Investor

March


How much do you know about YOUR home loan?

Take this quick quiz (answer YES or NO). Do you know:

  • Your current interest rate?
  • If your rate is fixed, variable or split between the two?
  • The remaining term of your home loan?
  • If you have a ‘no frills’ home loan or is it packaged with other finance products?
  • If you have an offset account?
  • The purpose of an offset account?
  • If you have a redraw facility? If so, do you use it?
  • If your loan attracts a break fee

How many times did you answer ‘yes’?

Research conducted last year found that many Australian consumers don’t know or understand the basic features of their own home loan. That’s a bit of a worry when some common home loan features could potentially save you money!

If you are not using your home loan features effectively you could be missing out on the many benefits that were set up for you when we established your finance.

As your finance specialist, this is one area where we really come to the fore. WE can impartially answer all of those home loan questions you might have that apply to YOU and your individual circumstances.

With so much media hype about having to get the lowest interest rate it is easy to overlook other facilities that could deliver benefits and savings over the life of your home loan.

Research tells us that we all want to pay off our home loans quicker!

Another recent survey found Australians are trying to reduce their mortgages as quickly as possible – in fact, the survey found 60% of homeowners make extra loan repayments. 40% of respondents made more frequent payments, eg fortnightly or weekly instead of monthly, and 34% used a linked offset account to fast track their home loan repayments.

In Australia close to 50% of home loans these days have a linked offset account. We find the biggest mistake most people make is not utilising their offset account wisely – they forget that we are here to help with the ongoing use and understanding of your finance education.

If you don’t know or have forgotten what features your home loan includes and are not confident you are using them effectively then you need to reach out to us!

If you haven’t revisited your loan features for a while – or if your circumstances have changed since you last reviewed your loan package – then it’s time to give us a call to help you start using it properly. It may even be that we can assist you with a new structure or package.

We’d be happy to book a time for a finance review if you would like to check your current loan features

1.Apra.gov.au/QAPES/Dec 2015

*Disclaimer: This article is generic in nature. All investment decisions should be considered wisely and based on your personal and financial circumstances. Seek proper advice before committing to any course of investment action. This is not deemed as advice.

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February RBA announcement 2017

At today’s board meeting the Reserve Bank decided to leave the cash rate unchanged at the all-time low rate of 1.50%.

Even though the RBA cash rate – and home loan interest rates – are at historically low levels it’s interesting that a recent survey revealed 41% of Australians have credit card debt. Of those, nearly 4 million can’t afford to repay it!

February can often be the time of year when our festive season excesses stare us in the face – all in black and white on our credit card statement! That can be a bit scary when we all know that a key component of getting ahead financially involves managing our debt.

If credit card debt is on YOUR mind make sure you read ‘Debt got you down? Then take action now!’ Then give us a call!

We just may be able to help you get started on kicking the RIGHT financial goals this year!

Quantum Investor

 

 

A recent survey revealed 41% of Australians have credit card debt and of those nearly 4 million cannot afford to repay it! In addition:

  • The average Australian household has a debt of around 185% of their annual disposable income1.
  • Australian households have the fifth highest debt levels in the world with household debt increasing fourfold since 19882.
  • Average debt levels are $12,643 for personal loans, $3,114 for credit card balances and $16,320 for car loans.

So what does this mean for the ‘average’ Australian?

Did you know if you are a prospective home buyer and have these ‘average’ levels of accumulated debt it could affect your borrowing power by almost $100,000?

With the median Australian house price at $623,0003 what impact might this have on your home ownership dreams?

Perhaps ask yourself these questions…

  • Is your debt growing faster than your assets?
  • Are you concerned about your debt situation?
  • Are you struggling to make your monthly repayments?
  • Does it always seem like your bills amount to more than your wages?

If you answered yes to one or more of these questions, then perhaps it’s time to look at a solution for your debt condition NOW – before it’s too late.

Why do so many of us have debt problems?

Some people fail to recognise that using credit to purchase items for use TODAY means they are spending their future earnings before they have even received them.

With debt levels increasing the government is currently assessing credit card rules – there is a push for lenders to assess suitability based on a consumer’s ability to repay within a reasonable period. However in the past lenders have offered credit cards, with pre-approved limits, without thoroughly checking credit histories or capacity to repay.

How have times changed? In the past we saved up or used the lay-by method, ie we used money we already HAD for items we wanted. Now, as an ‘instant gratification’ society with an abundance of credit at our finger tips we are tempted to use it without considering future consequences. Little wonder many people experience high levels of debt.

What are the first signs of trouble?

  • You think it is unlikely you will be able to repay your existing debt with your foreseeable future income.
  • You have multiple credit cards.
  • You are no longer paying the balance of your debt each month – you just pay the minimum amount.
  • You arranged for more credit cards (or a personal loan) to help pay off the other cards.
  • You added a store card(s) because there was no room left on the credit cards…

Eventually your repayments start to approach – or even exceed – your income.

What is the solution?

We all know that good budgeting and discretionary spending discipline is the real answer, but sometimes it doesn’t matter how well you budget there’s just not enough money to make ends meet.

One solution (and this is NOT for everyone) may be debt consolidation.

For some of us it may be too late for budgeting because the debt level is already greater than your income and there is nothing that can be done. In this instance, debt consolidation may be the option for you.

What is debt consolidation?

This is when you take multiple debts (where the majority of the debt has a much higher interest rate) and consolidate the debt into one loan with a lower average interest rate. Generally most people opt for refinancing against their home (using existing equity) as it has the lowest interest rate. For example, your home loan rate may be 5.5% as opposed to a personal loan that might be 10.95% or higher (definitely lower than most credit cards).

How can we help?

1. If your debt levels are a concern and you think you may be experiencing the first signs of trouble CALL US NOW before it is too late. We don’t judge. We are here to help.

2. Ask us for our debt consolidation spreadsheet to see how much we can potentially save you each month to go towards the payment of your debt. You may be surprised.

3. Even if you are managing your current debt, it never hurts to review your finances to see how your cash flow can be impacted favourably.

4. If you have friends or family who you think could benefit from reading this article, please forward it to them.

 

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Australian Office
Level 29, 221 St Georges Tce
Perth WA 6000
Phone: (61) 8 9214 3894
Fax: (61) 8 9480 3705
Email: info@quantuminvestor.com.au

Singapore Office
8 Temasek Boulevard Penthouse Level,
Suntec Tower Three,
Singapore 038988
Phone: (65) 6829 2266
Fax: (65) 68292121
Email: info@quantuminvestor.com.au

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