What is comprehensive credit reporting?

Comprehensive credit reporting is a system which includes both positive and negative information on a person’s credit file, to make credit reports fairer and more accurate.

How much does a house depreciate in value?

You may not think of houses as depreciating in value – after all, don’t house prices keep going up and up? But property investors know that houses and apartments also experience wear and tear over time, which requires upkeep and maintenance. While this depreciation can eat into the rental yield from an investment property, the costs can often be claimed as an expense on your taxes.

When can I switch energy suppliers without penalty?

If you are looking to switch to a new energy supplier without paying a penalty, here are a few tips to keep in mind. There are many reasons people might want to switch from their current energy supplier to a new one, from high prices to poor service.

Can you use rental income to qualify for a mortgage?

If you own an investment property and are thinking of buying another one, you may want to use the rental income you receive from your tenants to help pay for your next mortgage. However, not all mortgage lenders will take all of your rental income into account when assessing your mortgage application.

What are secured and unsecured personal loans?

A secured personal loan uses an asset, such as a car, as security. In contrast, an unsecured personal loan doesn’t require any collateral or assets to secure it.

Which bank has the best mobile app? Five questions to ask

A new research report has evaluated the mobile banking apps of Australia’s top lenders, and revealed which of Australia's leading banks has the best mobile app. But what questions can you ask a bank to work out if its app will suit your needs?

5 ways to protect yourself from fraud

With increased awareness of the threat of cyberattacks, it’s easy to feel concerned about the safety of your personal information. Criminals with access to your details could steal your identity, fraudulently run up debts in your name, and ruin your credit score, making accessing money and credit in the future much harder.

How much do electric cars cost in Australia?

Ready to join the electric revolution? Upgrading from your petrol-powered car to an electric vehicle (EV) may seem daunting, but it may be worth it in the end when it comes to saving on fuel, as well as the positive environmental impact. Getting an idea of how much you’ll be expected to pay for an electric car is essential when it comes to working out a budget and sourcing vehicle finance.

A short guide to getting solar for your home

Whether your focus is the environment or your budget, you may be thinking of installing solar panels on your roof to generate your own electricity. Household solar can contribute to a better environment by reducing your reliance on fossil fuels, leading to a cleaner grid. It can also help you save money by buying less electricity and selling your excess power back to the grid. 

How will debt consolidation affect my credit score?

If you have more debts than you can comfortably afford to repay, consolidating these debts into a single loan may not have an immediate effect on your credit score. But if consolidating your debts can help you build healthy financial habits, it’s possible that this could lead to your credit score improving over time.