Home Buying & Mortgage Blog

Expert guides and insights on buying your first home in Australia, mortgage strategies, and financial planning for homeownership.

The Hidden Costs of Buying a Home in Australia: Beyond the Deposit

Discover the real costs of buying a home in Australia beyond the deposit. Learn about stamp duty, LMI, legal fees, inspections, ongoing costs, and how much you actually need to budget for your first home purchase in 2026.

16 min read

From Renting to Buying: Your Complete Guide to Homeownership in Australia

Ready to stop renting and buy your first home? Learn the essential steps, costs, and strategies to transition from renting to homeownership in Australia with our comprehensive guide.

18 min read

How Close Are You Really to Buying Your First Home in Australia?

Stop guessing when you'll be ready to buy. Discover the five factors Australian banks actually use to assess first home buyers and learn how to replace uncertainty with clarity using simple, measurable steps.

10 min read

The Big Misunderstanding: Banks Don't Approve People — They Approve Numbers

Discover how Australian banks actually assess home loan applications. Learn why someone earning less can get approved over higher earners, how income and expenses determine borrowing power, and what credit scores really mean for your approval chances.

10 min read

Why Most Australians Feel Lost About Buying a Home (And It's Not Their Fault)

Discover why buying a home in Australia feels so overwhelming and confusing. Learn how to move from guessing to clarity with a better understanding of the home buying process and what actually helps first-time buyers succeed.

8 min read

What Affects Your Home Loan Interest Rate? (2026)

Discover the key factors that influence your home loan interest rate in Australia, from credit scores and LVR to employment status and negotiation strategies. Learn how to secure the best rate and save thousands over your mortgage term.

12 min read

How to Buy Your First Home Faster in Australia (2026)

A comprehensive, realistic guide for first home buyers in Australia covering the 5% Deposit Scheme, First Home Super Saver Scheme, FHOG in WA, stamp duty concessions, and practical strategies to enter the property market faster in 2026.

15 min read

How to Increase Borrowing Power

A comprehensive guide to understanding how Australian banks assess borrowing power in 2026, including the exact formulas lenders use and proven strategies to maximize your home loan capacity.

12 min read

How Australian Income Tax is Calculated in 2026

A complete guide to understanding Australian income tax calculations, including tax brackets, LITO, Medicare Levy, and HECS-HELP repayments for the 2024-25 and 2025-26 financial years.

8 min read

Understanding GST in Australia: A Complete Guide

Learn everything you need to know about GST (Goods and Services Tax) in Australia, including how to calculate GST-inclusive and GST-exclusive prices, business obligations, and common mistakes to avoid.

6 min read

Tax Planning Strategies for Australian Workers in 2026

Discover practical tax planning strategies to legally reduce your tax burden, maximize superannuation contributions, claim deductions, and prepare for the end of the financial year.

7 min read

Ready to Calculate Your Mortgage?

Use our free mortgage calculator to estimate your home loan repayments and find out how much you can afford.