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BIG Financial, Sydney (2026)

01/09/2026

Some tips to help you buy your next car for less.

Enjoy that new car smell longer.

There is something special about buying a brand new vehicle - the smell... the pristine paint... the purring of a well timed and perfectly balanced motor.
.. So how do you ensure that feeling is not soured as you drive out of the car dealership?

Car dealerships can be a very high pressured sales environment. The salesperson has a number of techniques they will utilise to ensure their bottom line is better than yours.

The most important factor to ensure you obtain a 'good deal' is to do your research before you start negotiating.

When buying a new vehicle, generally a number of individual transactions take place:

1. purchasing your new vehicle,
2. selling your old vehicle, and
3. organising finance.

When negotiating, you should strive to win on each of these transactions.

Before entering negotiations with the salesperson it is recommended you complete the following steps, which are outlined here in my latest factsheet: "Enjoy that new car smell longer!"https://www.mortgageaustralia.com.au/email/files/enjoythatnewcarsmelllonger.pdf

31/08/2026

How to spot a Cover Up - and avoid Buyer's Remorse:

Every day, buyers walk into an open house without really looking for problems.

Of course, it's nice to be polite when an agent is showing you through a property, but when you get distracted by the leather lounge suite and the smell of fresh cookies in the oven, you might be missing some tell-tale signs that something is not quite right.

So how do you spot a cover up? How do you know if the vendor is hiding a few skeletons in the closet?

1) Too-fresh Paint

Use your nose. If you smell fresh paint -and not just recent but 'done today' fresh paint, there's probably something amiss.

When people try to cover up water damage to walls and timber skirting boards, the stains have a way of coming back again and again. Often, the paint will need to be done weekly in an effort to avoid replacing the damaged area.

Look up at the ceiling as well - if that was freshly painted this morning you could be looking at a big problem.

2) Rugs in strange places

It's common to have rugs in the living area and along the hallway, but if this house has rugs all over the place for no apparent reason, there might be something lurking beneath.

3) Wall decorations out of place

We all have some pictures on the wall, but usually we put them in a sensible position, with a bit of consideration for symmetry.

If you see one section of wall with four paintings all touching each other, there could be a little surprise waiting for an unsuspecting buyer.

4) Dishwasher completely dry

This one might sound silly, but try opening the dishwasher. Its good manners to have either no dishes, or clean ones in there on open day - but there should be some sign of use.

If there isn't a drop of water to be seen, it might not be working. Ask the agent to turn it on for you and see what happens.

5) One too many air freshening methods

We all love a bit of sandlewood and lemongrass - but if the owners have used five different air freshening methods in the one room, they might be trying to cover up a damp smell or something worse. Use your nose as well as your other senses when you inspect to buy.

28/08/2026

Will a new vehicle jump-start your earnings?

It�s always important to take stock and consider whether the purchase of new assets or equipment will benefit your business. Asset finance is often the answer.

Financing new equipment, instead of purchasing it outright, can be a good way to preserve cash flow and working capital while adding an asset that can begin to generate immediate income.
And, of course, there may be potential tax advantages that could also come your way.

28/08/2026

Here are the most common questions I get asked by people who want to save money on their current home loan:

Can I get a mortgage where I pay less than I'm paying now?

In almost all cases, yes. But if for some reason you can't find you a cheaper loan, there was certainly no harm in trying.

With lenders adjusting their rates outside of the reserve bank now is a great time to shop around check that you have the right loan for your needs, I am a great starting point. It will depend what interest rate you're currently paying, what type of home loan you have (e.g. fixed, variable, interest only, line of credit) and what features you want in your loan. We can quickly explain your options.

Can I consolidate credit card or other debts into a home loan?

This is one of the reasons many people refinance. The advantage is that you pay a much lower interest rate on a mortgage than for most other forms of debt - e.g. credit cards, overdraft facilities, personal loans etc. Providing you have sufficient equity in your property, you may be able to consolidate all your debt on a home loan. If you take this option though it is important to make sure you maintain your repayments at their current level or you could end up paying more over a longer period of time. Speak with me anytime to discuss your personal needs.

How much money can I borrow?

We're all unique when it comes to our finances and borrowing needs. Get an estimate on how much you could borrow with our clever loan options tool. Chat to us when you're ready, we can help with calculations based on your circumstances.

How do I choose the loan that's right for me?

Our guides to loan types and features will help you learn about the main options available. There are hundreds of different home loans available, I can recommend the right loan setup for you.

How often do I make home loan repayments - weekly, fortnightly or monthly?

Most lenders offer flexible repayment options to suit your pay cycle. Aim for weekly or fortnightly repayments, instead of monthly, as you will make more payments in a year, which will shave dollars and time off your loan.

What fees/costs are involved in switching mortgages?

Penalty fees could apply if you're paying off a fixed rate mortgage early, but it usually costs only a few hundred dollars in administrative costs to your current lender for a variable mortgage. But I wouldn't recommend a loan where these costs are not substantially offset by repayment savings when you switch home loans. I'll walk you through any fees that will apply in your circumstances.

26/08/2026

If you are a property investor - here is how to increase your rental returns.

You've taken the plunge into the investment property pool and now have to find tenants. Although most rental markets throughout Australia remain tight, there's still a need to put your property's best foot forward to attract optimum returns.

Here are some of the ways you can add value and ask for more rent for your investment.

ADD OR UPGRADE APPLIANCES

If your rental has no dishwasher, add one. You can ask an extra $5-10 a week in rent and tick one of the big convenience boxes for renters.

European or stainless steel appliances in the kitchen can also add appeal, especially with the proliferation of would-be Masterchefs and My Kitchen Rulers.

LAUNDRY

If you have an older unit with no internal laundry, take a leaf from the Europeans and install a front-loader washing machine under a bench in the kitchen. You could also add a wall-mounted clothes dryer in the bathroom if there's room, or install a retractable clothesline on a balcony. Expect to collect about $30 extra a week with internal laundry facilities.

TEMPERATURE CONTROL

You can charge $20-30 a week extra by installing an inexpensive, wall-mounted, reverse-cycle air-conditioner, especially if the property is in a very hot or cold climate. Tenants in hot climates will also appreciate - and pay a little extra for - ceiling fans if you don't want to fork out for air-conditioning.

FURNITURE

Fully-furnished rentals do attract higher yields (from $80 upwards, depending on the property and area), but are not for everyone. Renters who are in transient professions (defence force, teaching), relocating long distances, leaving a relationship or moving out of home for the first time are more likely to target furnished rentals. Others may be put off if a place is furnished because it means their gear has to be stored.

Do your homework on the area and the type of renters it attracts before stocking up on extra couches.

UNDER-COVER PARKING

You don't have to build a garage to provide protected parking. Consider building a carport over a driveway. A simple $5,000 carport will probably pay for itself through extra rent in around two years.

EYE FOR DETAIL

Glimpses of gleam can have a big visual impact, just as worn, rusty and scratched fixtures can detract. Modernise older properties with small details, such as new handles on drawers and cabinets, more contemporary light fittings and sparkling stainless steel taps. You can also give a stale bathroom a quick and cheap facelift with new towel rods and hooks, a large mirror and a new shower screen. These little features are hygiene factors that will attract a higher-paying tenant.

STORAGE

Built-in wardrobes are highly sought, so make sure you have them in every bedroom. They not only attract extra rent, but broaden the appeal of your property. You can also add storage by reconfiguring existing wardrobes and kitchen cabinets.

Think about outdoor storage too, such as a shed or garage shelving, as tenants are likely to have bicycles, sports gear or camping equipment to stow.

SECURITY

Insurance statistics show renters are twice as likely as owner occupiers to be burgled, often because security is not as stringent. Make your place less appealing to burglars and more enticing to renters by installing security screens on doors and windows. Just ensure you don't bar windows, as they can pose a safety hazard in the case of fire.

REDUCE ENERGY COSTS

Tenants are often prepared to pay a little more in rent to save a lot on their utilities. Replace all standard light bulbs with energy efficient ones and switch the old electrical hot water system for a solar-boosted one. Make sure you promote the property's energy efficiency when advertising for tenants.

25/08/2026

Over 55% of Australian borrowers (including 65% of first home buyers) choose to use mortgage brokers to secure their loans. https://www.afgonline.com.au/broker/keep-competition-alive/

22/08/2026

Are you protecting your bank and leaving yourself vulnerable?

Did you feel a sense of relief when you finally sorted out all of the details and contracts for your loan? You took out home and contents insurance, you arranged for a cheque to cover the last few costs at settlement.

And you saw the paperwork for the Lenders Mortgage Insurance so you're all covered in case you can't repay your mortgage, right? Wrong!

Many borrowers make the tremendous mistake of assuming that Lenders Mortgage Insurance is their safety net in case of unexpected circumstances. This mistake could cost you the farm, and maybe even a few chickens.

LMI

Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI) is designed to protect your lender or your bank - not you. Unless you were able to fork over more than 20% of the purchase price, chances are your lender would have required you to talk out LMI.

LMI doesn't provide any assistance to you if you become unable to repay your mortgage. It won't kick in if you break your leg, or if you suddenly lose your job. LMI will not provide for your family in the event of your untimely death.

Lenders Mortgage Insurance is just that - insurance for your lender. This is designed to protect your lender in case you don't make your repayments. If the lender is forced to sell your property in order to recover their money - they want to make sure that they won't lose out if the selling price is not as much as what you paid. This is especially relevant if you only paid a small deposit.

Personal Insurance

There are an enormous variety of insurance products on the market that protect you from all sorts of misfortune.

Life Insurance will provide financial assistance to your family in the event that you suddenly pass away or become permanently disabled. There are many insurers out there so it's worth comparing lots of different Life Insurance products to make sure you're getting a good deal.

Income Protection Insurance is a safety net in case you become unable to work due to illness or injury, and sometimes because of involuntary redundancy. This can be very helpful for those who are self-employed - would you be able to keep up your loan repayments if you weren't working for a few months?

Trauma or Crisis insurance is another option that you can investigate, which will help you out in a variety of sticky situations.

The important thing to understand is - you have plenty of options. There are lots of insurance products out there that protect you from the unexpected. But LMI is not one of them - unless you're a lender.

20/08/2026

Protect your investment - find a great property manager:

If you are a property investor you probably know about Landlord's Insurance, but there's another way to protect your investment, and make sure that you continue to get a good rental return. The trick is to find a great property manager.

There a few characteristics that will help you to tell the difference between a fabulous property manager who will care for your investment, and a nightmare property manager who will cost you a fortune.

Professional and Committed

A really good property manager is not the disgruntled young buck who was recently rejected as a junior sales agent, and now has to see his days out processing rental applications. The best property managers are people who wouldn't have it any other way. They have made a career out of managing property and they have a network of satisfied clients.

Good processes in place for screening tenants

A good property manager has excellent processes in place for making sure that potential tenants are carefully screened. They keep detailed records and they check references.

Conducts regular inspections

A good property manager can tell you how often they will be inspecting your property. They will personally inspect the property at the agreed time and report back to you with any issues. They don't send the receptionist.

Has a maintenance team ready to handle any issues

A good property manager has a team of workers on call in the event that there are emergency repairs or maintenance needed at your property. They believe that it's vital to stay on top of any small issues before they become bigger ones.

Answers your phone calls

A good property manager is approachable and it shouldn't take a week for you to get them on the phone. They care about maintaining a relationship with you because they want to keep your business.

Treats tenants with respect

A good property manager treats tenants with fairness and respect, and understands that happy tenants are more likely to keep the property in good repair, and pay the rent on time. They also know when to do something if a tenant is not keeping up their end of the bargain.

Cares about your property

Most of all, a good property manager cares about you and your property and they will ensure that your investment is protected. By maintaining good rapport with all parties, they will help you to retain good tenants to keep your rental return coming in.

19/08/2026

Avoid trouble when the bubble bursts - 5 ways to spot a housing bubble.

Purchasing a property is a major financial commitment, and hopefully a great investment that will serve you well. Unfortunately though, many purchasers don't recognise the warning signs, and make this great leap in the middle of a 'bubble' - when housing prices are suddenly inflated.

What happens next can be a devastating blow - the bubble bursts and your property is now worth less than what you paid for it.

Don't let this happen to you - look out for these 5 ways to spot a housing bubble...

Housing prices have increased rapidly

If prices in your area have climbed by 20% in the past few months, there might be other factors at play. Beware of sudden increases to property values, and try to find out who is paying more. In the past, Government incentives such as enormous 'first home buyer' grants have caused property values to rise with speed. When the schemes come to an end, the market will adjust itself accordingly, and many new purchasers can be caught unaware.

Affordability Figures are low

If housing affordability figures indicate that median house prices have become unaffordable for the average Australian, chances are that they will settle back down again at some stage.

Interest Rates threatened to increase

When interest rates are low, property sales figures are often very strong. Unfortunately once interest rates begin to rise again, property prices and selling rates will drop accordingly.

Relaxed lending criteria

Lenders tend to adopt stricter lending criteria during tough economic times. During the Global Financial crisis, many lenders required a 20% deposit on all new loans. When loans are being awarded freely, and lenders are advertising 95% finance or more, there is often trouble on the way.

Delinquencies

The United States was heavily impacted by the GFC, and the first sign of trouble was a higher rate of delinquencies. Freely available loans and very long mortgages contributed to a situation where finance was given to many purchasers who could not afford to service their loan.

Look out for a high rate of delinquencies which could signal that the bubble is almost ready to burst.

17/08/2026

Here are the questions I get asked most often by Home Buyers:

How much money can I borrow?

We're all unique when it comes to our finances and borrowing needs. And different lenders lend very different amounts. Even if your own bank won't lend you the amount you want, do not assume other's won't.

Contact me anytime, I can help with calculations based on your circumstances, all over the phone.

How do I choose the loan that's right for me?

Our guides to loan types and features will help you learn about the main options available. There are hundreds of different home loans available.

How much do I need for a deposit?

Usually between 5% - 10% of the value of a property, which you pay when signing a Contract of Sale. Speak with us to discuss your options for a deposit. You may be able to borrow against the equity in your existing home or an investment property.

How much will regular repayments be?

Go to the Repayment Calculator on our website for an estimate. Because there so many different loan products, some with lower introductory rates.

How often do I make home loan repayments - weekly, fortnightly or monthly?

Most lenders offer flexible repayment options to suit your pay cycle. Aim for weekly or fortnightly repayments, instead of monthly, as you will make more payments in a year, which will shave dollars and time off your loan.

What fees/costs should I budget for?

There are a number of fees involved when buying a property. To avoid any surprises, the list below sets out all of the usual costs:

- Stamp Duty - This is the big one. All other costs are relatively small by comparison. Stamp duty rates vary between state and territory governments and also depend on the value of the property you buy. You may also have to pay stamp duty on the mortgage itself. To find out your total Stamp Duty charge, visit our Stamp Duty Calculator.

- Legal/conveyancing fees - Generally around $1,000 - $1500, these fees cover all the legal rigor around your property purchase, including title searches.

- Building inspection - This should be carried out by a qualified expert, such as a structural engineer, before you purchase the property. Your Contract of Sale should be subject to the building inspection, so if there are any structural problems you have the option to withdraw from the purchase without any significant financial penalties. A building inspection and report can cost up to $1,000, depending on the size of the property. Your conveyancer will usually arrange this inspection, and you will usually pay for it as part of their total invoice at settlement (in addition to the conveyancing fees).

- Pest inspection - Also to be carried out before purchase to ensure the property is free of problems, such as white ants. Your Contract of Sale should be subject to the pest inspection, so if any unwanted crawlies are found you may have the option to withdraw from the purchase without any significant financial penalties. Allow up to $500 depending on the size of the property. Your real estate agent or conveyancer may arrange this inspection, and you will usually pay for it as part of their total invoice at settlement (in addition to the conveyancing fees).

- Lender costs - Most lenders charge establishment fees to help cover the costs of their own valuation as well as administration fees. I will let you know what your lender charges but allow about $600 to $800.

- Moving costs - Don't forget to factor in the cost of a removalist if you plan on using one.

- Mortgage Insurance costs - If you borrow more than 80% of the purchase price of the property, you'll also need to pay Lender Mortgage Insurance. You may also choose to take out Mortgage Protection Insurance. If you buy a strata title, regular strata fees are payable.

- Ongoing costs - You will need to include council and water rates along with regular loan repayments. It is important to also take out building insurance and contents insurance. Your lender will probably require a minimum sum insured for the building to cover the loan, but make sure you actually take out enough building insurance to cover what it would cost if you had to rebuild. Likewise, make sure you have enough contents cover should you need to replace everything if the worst happens.

BIG Financial

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