{"version":"https://jsonfeed.org/version/1","title":"Formal Finance","home_page_url":"https://formalfinance.com.au","description":"Formal Finance","author":{"name":"Formal Finance"},"items":[{"id":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/rba-continues-cracking-the-whip-with-fifth-rate-hike-this-year","html_content":"

Mortgage holders are once again left holding the bag on Melbourne Cup Day with the RBA lifting the cash rate to 4.85%, its highest level in 18 years. If your repayments are starting to bite, here’s how we could help you ...

","url":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/rba-continues-cracking-the-whip-with-fifth-rate-hike-this-year","title":"RBA continues cracking the whip with fifth rate hike this year","summary":"Mortgage holders are once again left holding the bag on Melbourne Cup Day with the RBA lifting the cash rate to 4.85%, its highest level in 18 years. If your repayments are starting to bite, here’s how we could help you ...","date_modified":"2026-11-03T13:55:55Z"},{"id":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/first-homebuyers-change-tack-to-kickstart-their-property-goals","html_content":"

First homebuyers are rethinking their path to property. We reveal how the ownership dream is evolving, and the strategies first homebuyers are using to achieve their goals.

","url":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/first-homebuyers-change-tack-to-kickstart-their-property-goals","title":"First homebuyers change tack to kickstart their property goals","summary":"First homebuyers are rethinking their path to property. We reveal how the ownership dream is evolving, and the strategies first homebuyers are using to achieve their goals.","date_modified":"2026-10-29T01:37:35Z"},{"id":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/keen-to-save-on-your-purchase-seller-discounts-just-hit-a-5-year","html_content":"

Eager to score a price discount on your home purchase? Of course you are. We reveal how much of a discount sellers are currently offering – and what you can do to flex your negotiating muscle.

","url":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/keen-to-save-on-your-purchase-seller-discounts-just-hit-a-5-year","title":"Keen to save on your purchase? Seller discounts just hit a 5-year","summary":"Eager to score a price discount on your home purchase? Of course you are. We reveal how much of a discount sellers are currently offering – and what you can do to flex your negotiating muscle.","date_modified":"2026-10-22T02:29:05Z"},{"id":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/a-record-82%25-of-home-loans-rely-on-mortgage-brokers-here%E2%80%99s-why","html_content":"

What does Australia have in common with the United Kingdom and the Netherlands? In all three countries brokers facilitate more than 80% of new mortgages. We explain why.

","url":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/a-record-82%25-of-home-loans-rely-on-mortgage-brokers-here%E2%80%99s-why","title":"A record 82% of home loans rely on mortgage brokers. Here’s why.","summary":"What does Australia have in common with the United Kingdom and the Netherlands? In all three countries brokers facilitate more than 80% of new mortgages. We explain why.","date_modified":"2026-10-15T01:19:18Z"},{"id":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/what-does-a-good-home-loan-rate-look-like-now","html_content":"

A fourth rate rise for 2026 has just made checking your home loan rate a priority. But what does a ‘good’ rate look like right now? We reveal what’s currently a competitive rate, and how you may be able to land one.

","url":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/what-does-a-good-home-loan-rate-look-like-now","title":"What does a good home loan rate look like now?","summary":"A fourth rate rise for 2026 has just made checking your home loan rate a priority. But what does a ‘good’ rate look like right now? We reveal what’s currently a competitive rate, and how you may be able to land one.","date_modified":"2026-10-08T03:05:51Z"},{"id":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/rba-hikes-cash-rate-for-fourth-time-this-year-up-to-460%25","html_content":"

Here we go again … The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has raised the cash rate for a fourth time this year to 4.60%. Check out this week’s article to find out why they felt the need to pass on more borrowing pain to mor...

","url":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/rba-hikes-cash-rate-for-fourth-time-this-year-up-to-460%25","title":"RBA hikes cash rate for fourth time this year, up to 4.60%","summary":"Here we go again … The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has raised the cash rate for a fourth time this year to 4.60%. Check out this week’s article to find out why they felt the need to pass on more borrowing pain to mor...","date_modified":"2026-09-29T07:14:08Z"},{"id":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/how-you-could-still-negatively-gear-a-rental-property","html_content":"

The federal budget introduced major tax reforms for property investors, but it may still be possible to enjoy the potential tax benefits of negative gearing. Here’s how it could be done.

","url":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/how-you-could-still-negatively-gear-a-rental-property","title":"How you could still negatively gear a rental property","summary":"The federal budget introduced major tax reforms for property investors, but it may still be possible to enjoy the potential tax benefits of negative gearing. Here’s how it could be done.","date_modified":"2026-09-24T01:59:50Z"},{"id":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/why-holding-out-for-lower-prices-could-hurt-first-home-buyers","html_content":"

In today’s easing market, it may be tempting to wait for property prices to fall further. But it’s a strategy that could see first home buyers left disappointed. We explain why.

","url":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/why-holding-out-for-lower-prices-could-hurt-first-home-buyers","title":"Why holding out for lower prices could hurt first home buyers","summary":"In today’s easing market, it may be tempting to wait for property prices to fall further. But it’s a strategy that could see first home buyers left disappointed. We explain why.","date_modified":"2026-09-17T01:51:51Z"},{"id":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/spring-selling-season-is-here-what%E2%80%99s-different-in-2026","html_content":"

Australia’s peak property season is underway, and spring 2026 is shaping up as a buyers’ market. Here’s what the experts say we can expect in the weeks ahead.

","url":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/spring-selling-season-is-here-what%E2%80%99s-different-in-2026","title":"Spring selling season is here. What’s different in 2026?","summary":"Australia’s peak property season is underway, and spring 2026 is shaping up as a buyers’ market. Here’s what the experts say we can expect in the weeks ahead.","date_modified":"2026-09-10T01:25:33Z"},{"id":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/could-rates-lift-off-again-before-xmas-here%E2%80%99s-how-to-prepare","html_content":"

Several of the big banks have pivoted on their rate outlook, and are now predicting rate hikes (rather than no change or a fall) this side of Christmas. It could be a cue for homeowners to plan rather than panic.

","url":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/could-rates-lift-off-again-before-xmas-here%E2%80%99s-how-to-prepare","title":"Could rates lift off again before Xmas? Here’s how to prepare","summary":"Several of the big banks have pivoted on their rate outlook, and are now predicting rate hikes (rather than no change or a fall) this side of Christmas. It could be a cue for homeowners to plan rather than panic.","date_modified":"2026-09-03T02:00:56Z"},{"id":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/could-you-spot-a-property-scam-spoiler-alert-over-2-in-5-can%E2%80%99t","html_content":"

Property transactions involve big bucks – and that makes them a big target for scammers. With large sums of money at stake, we reveal what to look out for, and how to protect yourself from property settlement scams.

","url":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/could-you-spot-a-property-scam-spoiler-alert-over-2-in-5-can%E2%80%99t","title":"Could you spot a property scam? Spoiler alert: over 2 in 5 can’t","summary":"Property transactions involve big bucks – and that makes them a big target for scammers. With large sums of money at stake, we reveal what to look out for, and how to protect yourself from property settlement scams.","date_modified":"2026-08-27T02:03:54Z"},{"id":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/the-silver-lining-of-a-cooling-property-market-for-home-owners","html_content":"

While rising prices were the talk of the town not so long ago, the tide has started to turn, with property values beginning to soften – but it’s not all bad news for home owners.

","url":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/the-silver-lining-of-a-cooling-property-market-for-home-owners","title":"The silver lining of a cooling property market for home owners","summary":"While rising prices were the talk of the town not so long ago, the tide has started to turn, with property values beginning to soften – but it’s not all bad news for home owners.","date_modified":"2026-08-19T23:22:29Z"},{"id":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/what%E2%80%99s-a-competitive-rate-right-now-nearly-50-lenders-offer","html_content":"

Great news! Homeowners can breathe a sigh of relief, with the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) keeping the cash rate on hold in August. But just because the cash rate is sitting tight, doesn’t mean you have to.

","url":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/what%E2%80%99s-a-competitive-rate-right-now-nearly-50-lenders-offer","title":"What’s a competitive rate right now? Nearly 50 lenders offer","summary":"Great news! Homeowners can breathe a sigh of relief, with the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) keeping the cash rate on hold in August. But just because the cash rate is sitting tight, doesn’t mean you have to.","date_modified":"2026-08-13T01:08:12Z"},{"id":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/was-your-offset-account-flagged-in-the-asic-investigation","html_content":"

So it turns out some mortgage offset accounts haven’t been working as intended, according to a recent investigation. Here’s how to check if your home loan offset account has actually been helping you save.

","url":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/was-your-offset-account-flagged-in-the-asic-investigation","title":"Was your offset account flagged in the ASIC investigation?","summary":"So it turns out some mortgage offset accounts haven’t been working as intended, according to a recent investigation. Here’s how to check if your home loan offset account has actually been helping you save.","date_modified":"2026-08-06T02:36:25Z"},{"id":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/how-to-avoid-this-common-home-buyer-trap","html_content":"

Waiting for home prices to ‘bottom out’ before buying may seem like a smart strategy but it could work against you. Here are the risks of holding out and hoping for lower prices.

","url":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/how-to-avoid-this-common-home-buyer-trap","title":"How to avoid this common home buyer trap","summary":"Waiting for home prices to ‘bottom out’ before buying may seem like a smart strategy but it could work against you. Here are the risks of holding out and hoping for lower prices.","date_modified":"2026-07-30T00:45:11Z"},{"id":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/great-news-for-buyers-property-listings-spike-fomo-dials-down","html_content":"

Things are looking up for homebuyers. New listings are on the rise, and that can mean more choice and less FOMO pressure for buyers. Here’s how the shift in today’s market could benefit your homebuying plans.

","url":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/great-news-for-buyers-property-listings-spike-fomo-dials-down","title":"Great news for buyers: property listings spike, FOMO dials down","summary":"Things are looking up for homebuyers. New listings are on the rise, and that can mean more choice and less FOMO pressure for buyers. Here’s how the shift in today’s market could benefit your homebuying plans.","date_modified":"2026-07-23T01:55:37Z"},{"id":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/lenders-cut-rates-as-competition-heats-up","html_content":"

The Reserve Bank may have kept rates on hold in June, but a growing number of lenders have cut their home loan interest rates. This could be your sign to review your current loan.

","url":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/lenders-cut-rates-as-competition-heats-up","title":"Lenders cut rates as competition heats up","summary":"The Reserve Bank may have kept rates on hold in June, but a growing number of lenders have cut their home loan interest rates. This could be your sign to review your current loan.","date_modified":"2026-07-16T02:06:44Z"},{"id":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/bank-of-mum-and-dad-why-a-written-agreement-can-make-sense","html_content":"

With more first home buyers relying on family support to get into the market, we explain why it may be beneficial to put the details in writing if Mum and Dad offer a financial helping hand.

","url":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/bank-of-mum-and-dad-why-a-written-agreement-can-make-sense","title":"Bank of Mum and Dad: why a written agreement can make sense","summary":"With more first home buyers relying on family support to get into the market, we explain why it may be beneficial to put the details in writing if Mum and Dad offer a financial helping hand.","date_modified":"2026-07-09T01:18:47Z"},{"id":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/new-financial-year-new-reasons-to-review-your-home-loan","html_content":"

As the calendar flips over to July, now’s a good time to give your home loan a once-over. We look at five strategies that could help you save on interest and pay off your mortgage sooner.

","url":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/new-financial-year-new-reasons-to-review-your-home-loan","title":"New financial year, new reasons to review your home loan","summary":"As the calendar flips over to July, now’s a good time to give your home loan a once-over. We look at five strategies that could help you save on interest and pay off your mortgage sooner.","date_modified":"2026-07-02T01:44:33Z"},{"id":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/how-the-property-market-is-shaping-up-in-your-area-post-budget","html_content":"

It’s just over a month since the Federal Government unveiled its tax reforms on budget night. Here’s how property values are responding across the major cities.

","url":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/how-the-property-market-is-shaping-up-in-your-area-post-budget","title":"How the property market is shaping up in your area post budget","summary":"It’s just over a month since the Federal Government unveiled its tax reforms on budget night. Here’s how property values are responding across the major cities.","date_modified":"2026-06-24T23:55:05Z"},{"id":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/record-smashed-over-80%25-of-buyers-turn-to-a-broker-for-help","html_content":"

The mortgage broking industry has notched up an exciting record with the news that brokers now account for 81% of Australia’s residential lending market. Here’s why.

","url":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/record-smashed-over-80%25-of-buyers-turn-to-a-broker-for-help","title":"Record smashed: over 80% of buyers turn to a broker for help","summary":"The mortgage broking industry has notched up an exciting record with the news that brokers now account for 81% of Australia’s residential lending market. Here’s why.","date_modified":"2026-06-18T01:17:20Z"},{"id":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/5-tips-to-help-you-clear-your-mortgage-by-retirement","html_content":"

Worried you’ll still be paying off your mortgage in retirement? New research shows you’re not alone. Here are five tips to help clear the slate before you hang up your work boots.

","url":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/5-tips-to-help-you-clear-your-mortgage-by-retirement","title":"5 tips to help you clear your mortgage by retirement","summary":"Worried you’ll still be paying off your mortgage in retirement? New research shows you’re not alone. Here are five tips to help clear the slate before you hang up your work boots.","date_modified":"2026-06-11T00:20:15Z"},{"id":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/not-a-housing-%E2%80%9Ccrash%E2%80%9D-%E2%80%93-easing-growth-and-plenty-of-buying","html_content":"

House price growth is slowing but experts say not to expect a crash. We look at what’s changed, and why today’s market may offer good opportunities for homebuyers.

","url":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/not-a-housing-%E2%80%9Ccrash%E2%80%9D-%E2%80%93-easing-growth-and-plenty-of-buying","title":"Not a housing “crash” – easing growth and plenty of buying","summary":"House price growth is slowing but experts say not to expect a crash. We look at what’s changed, and why today’s market may offer good opportunities for homebuyers.","date_modified":"2026-06-04T01:09:34Z"},{"id":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/gen-z-races-into-the-property-market","html_content":"

A few tweaks to a popular first home buyer scheme has driven a “surge” in Gen Zs buying their first home. And it’s not the only upside giving first home buyers a boost now.

","url":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/gen-z-races-into-the-property-market","title":"Gen Z races into the property market","summary":"A few tweaks to a popular first home buyer scheme has driven a “surge” in Gen Zs buying their first home. And it’s not the only upside giving first home buyers a boost now.","date_modified":"2026-05-28T00:53:14Z"},{"id":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/home-loan-interest-rate-rising-there-may-be-other-options","html_content":"

It was great while it lasted, but the rate cut party is well and truly over. Today we look at how you could potentially reduce your home loan interest rate without relying on the Reserve Bank.

","url":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/home-loan-interest-rate-rising-there-may-be-other-options","title":"Home loan interest rate rising? There may be other options","summary":"It was great while it lasted, but the rate cut party is well and truly over. Today we look at how you could potentially reduce your home loan interest rate without relying on the Reserve Bank.","date_modified":"2026-05-21T02:04:36Z"},{"id":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/federal-budget-2026-how-it-could-affect-your-property-plans","html_content":"

Reforms to negative gearing and capital gains tax have been unveiled in the latest national budget. Here’s what they could mean for investors, first home buyers and home owners.

","url":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/federal-budget-2026-how-it-could-affect-your-property-plans","title":"Federal Budget 2026: how it could affect your property plans","summary":"Reforms to negative gearing and capital gains tax have been unveiled in the latest national budget. Here’s what they could mean for investors, first home buyers and home owners.","date_modified":"2026-05-14T00:16:29Z"},{"id":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/cash-rate-increases-for-the-third-time-this-year-now-up-to-435%25","html_content":"

The hits just keep coming for mortgage holders, with the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) today raising the cash rate for a third time this year to 4.35%. If you’re starting to struggle with your mortgage repayments, here...

","url":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/cash-rate-increases-for-the-third-time-this-year-now-up-to-435%25","title":"Cash rate increases for the third time this year, now up to 4.35%","summary":"The hits just keep coming for mortgage holders, with the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) today raising the cash rate for a third time this year to 4.35%. If you’re starting to struggle with your mortgage repayments, here...","date_modified":"2026-05-05T07:36:10Z"},{"id":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/how-to-turn-your-new-build-dreams-into-reality","html_content":"

There’s no better feeling than living in a brand new home – it’s fresh, clean and it’s all yours. But financing a new-build works very differently from buying an established home. Here’s what you need to know.

","url":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/how-to-turn-your-new-build-dreams-into-reality","title":"How to turn your new-build dreams into reality","summary":"There’s no better feeling than living in a brand new home – it’s fresh, clean and it’s all yours. But financing a new-build works very differently from buying an established home. Here’s what you need to know.","date_modified":"2026-04-30T04:04:59Z"},{"id":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/could-your-home-loan-pre-approval-be-out-of-date","html_content":"

Having loan pre-approval can be a smart move for home buyers. But the recent Reserve Bank cash rate hikes could leave your pre-approval in need of an update.

","url":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/could-your-home-loan-pre-approval-be-out-of-date","title":"Could your home loan pre-approval be out of date?","summary":"Having loan pre-approval can be a smart move for home buyers. But the recent Reserve Bank cash rate hikes could leave your pre-approval in need of an update.","date_modified":"2026-04-22T23:48:59Z"},{"id":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/why-buyers-are-defying-rate-hikes-and-rising-fuel-prices","html_content":"

Rate hikes and soaring fuel prices aren’t dampening home buyer enthusiasm, with a strong majority of Aussies still believing the time to buy is now. We look at why home-buying sentiment remains so high.

","url":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/why-buyers-are-defying-rate-hikes-and-rising-fuel-prices","title":"Why buyers are defying rate hikes and rising fuel prices","summary":"Rate hikes and soaring fuel prices aren’t dampening home buyer enthusiasm, with a strong majority of Aussies still believing the time to buy is now. We look at why home-buying sentiment remains so high.","date_modified":"2026-04-16T01:14:11Z"},{"id":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/one-in-five-investors-snatch-up-interstate-properties","html_content":"

Is the grass really greener on the other side? Maybe. Australia has seen a surge of investor activity in recent years, with investment loans reaching record highs. But as home prices rise, plenty of investors are looking...

","url":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/one-in-five-investors-snatch-up-interstate-properties","title":"One-in-five investors snatch up interstate properties","summary":"Is the grass really greener on the other side? Maybe. Australia has seen a surge of investor activity in recent years, with investment loans reaching record highs. But as home prices rise, plenty of investors are looking...","date_modified":"2026-04-09T00:35:41Z"},{"id":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/5%25-deposit-scheme-helps-more-than-300000-aussies-buy-a-first-hom","html_content":"

Buying a first home doesn’t have to mean years of eating beans on toast while you scrape together a 20% deposit. Here’s how you could break into the property market with just a 5% deposit.

","url":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/5%25-deposit-scheme-helps-more-than-300000-aussies-buy-a-first-hom","title":"5% Deposit Scheme helps more than 300,000 Aussies buy a first hom","summary":"Buying a first home doesn’t have to mean years of eating beans on toast while you scrape together a 20% deposit. Here’s how you could break into the property market with just a 5% deposit.","date_modified":"2026-04-02T01:24:11Z"},{"id":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/good-news-for-buyers-%E2%80%93-surge-in-homes-hitting-the-market","html_content":"

If you’re in the market for a home, you may have noticed there hasn’t always been a whole lot of choice in recent months. Fortunately, it looks like property listings are really starting to pick back up. Here’s how to ma...

","url":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/good-news-for-buyers-%E2%80%93-surge-in-homes-hitting-the-market","title":"Good news for buyers – surge in homes hitting the market","summary":"If you’re in the market for a home, you may have noticed there hasn’t always been a whole lot of choice in recent months. Fortunately, it looks like property listings are really starting to pick back up. Here’s how to ma...","date_modified":"2026-03-26T00:50:32Z"},{"id":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/double-trouble-rba-lifts-cash-rate-by-another-25-basis-points-to","html_content":"

More bad news for mortgage holders around the country: the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) today raised the cash rate for the second time this year to 4.10% in a 5-4 split decision vote. How might this impact your monthl...

","url":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/double-trouble-rba-lifts-cash-rate-by-another-25-basis-points-to","title":"Double trouble! RBA lifts cash rate by another 25 basis points to","summary":"More bad news for mortgage holders around the country: the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) today raised the cash rate for the second time this year to 4.10% in a 5-4 split decision vote. How might this impact your monthl...","date_modified":"2026-03-17T04:50:13Z"},{"id":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/offset-accounts-surge-as-homeowners-race-to-beat-higher-rates","html_content":"

Who wouldn’t want to save on home loan interest and pay off their mortgage faster? Homeowners are increasingly turning to offset accounts to do just that. So today we’ll look into whether an offset account could benefit ...

","url":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/offset-accounts-surge-as-homeowners-race-to-beat-higher-rates","title":"Offset accounts surge as homeowners race to beat higher rates","summary":"Who wouldn’t want to save on home loan interest and pay off their mortgage faster? Homeowners are increasingly turning to offset accounts to do just that. So today we’ll look into whether an offset account could benefit ...","date_modified":"2026-03-12T01:04:12Z"},{"id":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/how-first-home-buyers-can-buy-up-to-five-years-sooner","html_content":"

As home prices climb higher, first home buyers can feel like the goal posts are continually shifting further out of reach. But there is a way to potentially cut years off the time taken to buy a home.

","url":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/how-first-home-buyers-can-buy-up-to-five-years-sooner","title":"How first home buyers can buy up to five years sooner","summary":"As home prices climb higher, first home buyers can feel like the goal posts are continually shifting further out of reach. But there is a way to potentially cut years off the time taken to buy a home.","date_modified":"2026-03-05T01:05:25Z"},{"id":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/how-much-do-you-need-to-earn-to-buy-a-home-in-2026","html_content":"

Sure, saving a deposit is important, but your income can hold the real key to getting into the market. That’s because it shapes your borrowing power.

","url":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/how-much-do-you-need-to-earn-to-buy-a-home-in-2026","title":"How much do you need to earn to buy a home in 2026?","summary":"Sure, saving a deposit is important, but your income can hold the real key to getting into the market. That’s because it shapes your borrowing power.","date_modified":"2026-02-26T02:05:19Z"},{"id":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/thinking-of-a-tree-change-you-might-find-more-affordable-homes","html_content":"

Growing numbers of younger Australians are opting for regional living, and part of the lure of a ‘seachange’ or ‘treechange’ can be the chance to get more bang for your buck.

","url":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/thinking-of-a-tree-change-you-might-find-more-affordable-homes","title":"Thinking of a tree change? You might find more affordable homes","summary":"Growing numbers of younger Australians are opting for regional living, and part of the lure of a ‘seachange’ or ‘treechange’ can be the chance to get more bang for your buck.","date_modified":"2026-02-19T01:44:26Z"},{"id":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/which-generation-tops-housing-wealth-in-australia","html_content":"

Myth busted! Baby Boomers no longer own the bulk of housing wealth in Australia. We reveal who does, and how you could get started in the property market.

","url":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/which-generation-tops-housing-wealth-in-australia","title":"Which generation tops housing wealth in Australia?","summary":"Myth busted! Baby Boomers no longer own the bulk of housing wealth in Australia. We reveal who does, and how you could get started in the property market.","date_modified":"2026-02-12T01:15:00Z"},{"id":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/rba-hikes-the-cash-rate-by-25-basis-points-to-385%25","html_content":"

Bad news for mortgage holders around the country: the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) today raised the cash rate by 25 basis points to 3.85%. Today we’ll look at why it did so, and how this rate hike could impact your mo...

","url":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/rba-hikes-the-cash-rate-by-25-basis-points-to-385%25","title":"RBA hikes the cash rate by 25 basis points to 3.85%","summary":"Bad news for mortgage holders around the country: the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) today raised the cash rate by 25 basis points to 3.85%. Today we’ll look at why it did so, and how this rate hike could impact your mo...","date_modified":"2026-02-03T04:42:29Z"},{"id":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/how-high-are-property-prices-predicted-to-go-in-2026","html_content":"

After a lengthy run of rising prices in 2025, some pundits are tipping property prices could keep climbing in 2026. Today we’ll take a sneak peek inside the experts’ crystal ball – and what it could mean for your home bu...

","url":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/how-high-are-property-prices-predicted-to-go-in-2026","title":"How high are property prices predicted to go in 2026?","summary":"After a lengthy run of rising prices in 2025, some pundits are tipping property prices could keep climbing in 2026. Today we’ll take a sneak peek inside the experts’ crystal ball – and what it could mean for your home bu...","date_modified":"2026-01-29T00:22:41Z"},{"id":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/roll-up-those-sleeves-%E2%80%93-a-renovation-renaissance-is-slated-for-20","html_content":"

A renovation boom may loom, with plenty of home owners choosing to renovate rather than relocate this year. So if you have plans for home improvements, it’s worth knowing how to fund your project.

","url":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/roll-up-those-sleeves-%E2%80%93-a-renovation-renaissance-is-slated-for-20","title":"Roll up those sleeves – a renovation renaissance is slated for 20","summary":"A renovation boom may loom, with plenty of home owners choosing to renovate rather than relocate this year. So if you have plans for home improvements, it’s worth knowing how to fund your project.","date_modified":"2026-01-22T01:14:25Z"},{"id":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/nurses-teachers-or-ceos-which-occupation-boasts-more-property-i","html_content":"

Owning an investment property isn’t limited to the uber-rich. In fact, investors are usually people you interact with daily. Today, we’ll reveal which occupations are the nation’s most prolific property investors, and ho...

","url":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/nurses-teachers-or-ceos-which-occupation-boasts-more-property-i","title":"Nurses, teachers or CEOs: which occupation boasts more property i","summary":"Owning an investment property isn’t limited to the uber-rich. In fact, investors are usually people you interact with daily. Today, we’ll reveal which occupations are the nation’s most prolific property investors, and ho...","date_modified":"2026-01-14T23:55:04Z"},{"id":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/aussie-home-owners-just-got-82000-richer-on-average","html_content":"

What a way to start the new year! After a strong 12 months in the property market, plenty of homeowners around the nation are now a whole lot wealthier. And their newfound increase in home equity has opened up some excit...

","url":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/aussie-home-owners-just-got-82000-richer-on-average","title":"Aussie home owners just got $82,000 richer on average","summary":"What a way to start the new year! After a strong 12 months in the property market, plenty of homeowners around the nation are now a whole lot wealthier. And their newfound increase in home equity has opened up some excit...","date_modified":"2026-01-08T01:02:28Z"},{"id":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/happy-new-year-let%E2%80%99s-discuss-some-potential-2026-goals","html_content":"

There’s nothing quite like a New Year’s resolution to fire you up for another lap around the sun. Whether you’re looking to buy your first home, save on your mortgage, or leverage the equity in your current position, her...

","url":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/happy-new-year-let%E2%80%99s-discuss-some-potential-2026-goals","title":"Happy New Year! Let’s discuss some potential 2026 goals","summary":"There’s nothing quite like a New Year’s resolution to fire you up for another lap around the sun. Whether you’re looking to buy your first home, save on your mortgage, or leverage the equity in your current position, her...","date_modified":"2026-01-01T01:25:16Z"},{"id":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/season%E2%80%99s-greetings-here%E2%80%99s-to-a-well-earned-summer-break","html_content":"

As the Christmas and New Year’s festive season rolls around, we want to take a moment to sincerely thank you for your trust and support throughout 2025.

","url":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/season%E2%80%99s-greetings-here%E2%80%99s-to-a-well-earned-summer-break","title":"Season’s greetings! Here’s to a well-earned summer break","summary":"As the Christmas and New Year’s festive season rolls around, we want to take a moment to sincerely thank you for your trust and support throughout 2025.","date_modified":"2025-12-23T00:53:11Z"},{"id":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/your-suburb%E2%80%99s-2025-property-report-card-is-in","html_content":"

You might’ve seen recent headlines that national property prices made another big jump this year. But do you know exactly how your suburb and property type performed? Well, today we’ll show you how to find out in just a ...

","url":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/your-suburb%E2%80%99s-2025-property-report-card-is-in","title":"Your suburb’s 2025 property report card is in","summary":"You might’ve seen recent headlines that national property prices made another big jump this year. But do you know exactly how your suburb and property type performed? Well, today we’ll show you how to find out in just a ...","date_modified":"2025-12-18T00:32:33Z"},{"id":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/no-christmas-rate-cut-%E2%80%93-could-rates-rise-in-2026","html_content":"

Not so long ago plenty of economists were tipping a fresh round of rate cuts in 2026. But the picture’s not so clear anymore. There’s even talk of possible rate hikes next year. Here’s how you can prepare.

","url":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/no-christmas-rate-cut-%E2%80%93-could-rates-rise-in-2026","title":"No Christmas rate cut – could rates rise in 2026?","summary":"Not so long ago plenty of economists were tipping a fresh round of rate cuts in 2026. But the picture’s not so clear anymore. There’s even talk of possible rate hikes next year. Here’s how you can prepare.","date_modified":"2025-12-11T00:40:17Z"},{"id":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/2%25-deposit-scheme-%E2%80%98help-to-buy%E2%80%99-launches","html_content":"

Imagine being able to buy your own home with just a $12,000 deposit. That’s what the federal government’s new Help to Buy shared equity scheme can offer. But there are some pros and cons to be aware of. Let’s take a look...

","url":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/2%25-deposit-scheme-%E2%80%98help-to-buy%E2%80%99-launches","title":"2% deposit scheme ‘Help to Buy’ launches","summary":"Imagine being able to buy your own home with just a $12,000 deposit. That’s what the federal government’s new Help to Buy shared equity scheme can offer. But there are some pros and cons to be aware of. Let’s take a look...","date_modified":"2025-12-04T05:36:41Z"},{"id":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/all-aboard-the-affordability-of-just-one-extra-train-stop","html_content":"

If you’ve just boarded the home buyer express, chances are ‘value’ is high on your list of neighbourhood must-haves. Well, it turns out that house hunters who are happy to stay on the train for just one more stop can be ...

","url":"https://formalfinance.com.au/the-property-edit/f/all-aboard-the-affordability-of-just-one-extra-train-stop","title":"All aboard! The affordability of just one extra train stop","summary":"If you’ve just boarded the home buyer express, chances are ‘value’ is high on your list of neighbourhood must-haves. Well, it turns out that house hunters who are happy to stay on the train for just one more stop can be ...","date_modified":"2025-10-23T00:04:33Z"}]}