Land banking

Land banking is a real estate investment scheme that involves buying large blocks of undeveloped land. These schemes are often unregulated and there’s little protection if something goes wrong. In a land banking scheme, property developers usually buy land, divide it into smaller blocks and offer it to investors. As an investor, you either buy … Read more

Consolidating super funds

Consolidating your super means moving all your super into one account. It makes your super easier to manage, and saves on fees. Before you consolidate, pick the best super fund for you. You can transfer your super for free in a few simple steps. If you’re ready to consolidate your super now, go straight to … Read more

Investors making a comeback

During the past couple of years property investors have been less active as interest rate rises began eating into their profits. However, as 2024 begins, it’s clear more investors are returning to the real estate market. According to the ABS lending indicators report for October, new loan commitments for investors increased by 5% in one … Read more

Why investors are firmly focused on interest rates

2024 is very much a story of how quickly and how sharply rates will start coming down. Around the world, just like in 2023, financial markets, investors, and borrowers are firmly focused on what will happen to official interest rates. But unlike last year, when rates were on the way up, 2024 is very much … Read more

Your money in retirement

Living longer means more life to enjoy. If you’re retired, or planning to retire, here are some ways to help make your money go the distance. Claim your government entitlements You may be eligible for government benefits such as: Age Pension Pensioner concessions Health care benefits Tax offsets See Age Pension and government benefits. Keep working, … Read more

How does ageing affect the ability to remember?

Key points: Scientists have found that working memory can be disrupted as early as people enter middle age In 2024, it is estimated there are more than 421,000 Australians living with all forms of dementia More than two-thirds of aged care residents have moderate to severe cognitive impairment Scientists have reported a global breakthrough in brain research through … Read more

What insurance do you need when buying a house?

When getting ready to buy property, there are many things to keep track of as settlement approaches. An important consideration is what you will need in terms of insurance – admittedly not the most exciting part of buying a new home, but one which can save you money and stress in the future. Why lenders … Read more

New increased super contribution caps

As the end of financial year gets closer, some investors are thinking about the most effective ways to boost their super balance, particularly with an increase in the caps on contributions from 1 July. The concessional contributions cap, which is the maximum in before-tax contributions you can add to your super each year without paying … Read more

How to do a budget

Having a budget helps you see where your money is going. You can put aside money for bills and expenses and set up a plan to reach your financial goals. Follow these steps to get started. Use how often you get paid as the timeframe for your budget. For example, if you get paid weekly, … Read more