Astute Darra in Darra, Queensland, Australia | Mortgage brokers

Astute Darra

Locality: Darra, Queensland, Australia

Phone: +61 433 449 934

Address: 67 Bellwood Street 4076 Darra, QLD, Australia

Website: http://astutefinancial.com.au/members/darra/

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25.01.2022 House prices are still rising despite the pandemic. Here's a few reasons that may explain the trend.

25.01.2022 Does pausing payments affect your credit score? https://www.moneymag.com.au/payment-pause-credit-score

25.01.2022 Want to consolidate your debts, access equity or see if there is a better option out there for your mortgage? Send us a message and we'll work to find a solution.

24.01.2022 Caravan and campers are more popular than ever with restrictions to travel. If you need finance for your new purchase, we can help get you preapproved so you can shop with confidence.

24.01.2022 Here's Laura Higgins, head of moneysmart.gov.au, about why getting on top of your finances is so important for mental wellbeing.

24.01.2022 3 budget-friendly tips to re-energise your home in 2021 - Rather than doing a full 180 change and thinking you will easily adjust, there are a few little things that you can change, adapt or improve so that at least your home starts the year at its best. https://www.rent.com.au/blog/energise-home

23.01.2022 At its meeting today, the Board decided to maintain the official cash rate. read more about it here: https://www.rba.gov.au/media-releases/2020/mr-20-32.html

23.01.2022 Read more about what RBA governor Philip Lowe said and how the reduction of the official cash rate may affect borrowers.

22.01.2022 Next time you see an advertisement online, think a little bit more critically about whether what they’re selling or promoting is too good to be true and what they’re getting out of it (because ads are definitely not free)!

22.01.2022 Spring is just around the corner so that means spring cleaning is in order! Here are some tips to help get you started. https://www.homestolove.com.au/how-to-spring-clean-your-hom

22.01.2022 Good news as the federal government extends the HomeBuilder grants scheme. If you have any questions on the grants, please contact us. https://www.news.com.au///18e6e177fbfc65d5a2cf793ea2f62955

20.01.2022 Cheers to the new year.

20.01.2022 COVID-19 has led to a spike in the number of scams being perpetrated online. Whether it’s trying to sell products to cure the virus, or pretending to be from government agencies ‘phishing’ for your information, scammers are capitalising on the fallout from the pandemic. Here are four recent examples targeting Australians. For more information see the Government’s Scamwatch website: www.scamwatch.gov.au

19.01.2022 Want to sell your car faster? Auto photographer Easton Chang shares his tips to make your listing stand out

19.01.2022 Christmas creates a lot of waste. Here are a few simple, small changes you can make to reduce what we throw away each festive season.

19.01.2022 A helpful guide for the Christmas period.

18.01.2022 For many of us, COVID-19 has meant that parts of our lives have been put on pause. As restrictions are lifted, we face more changes to our daily routines and an opening back up of our worlds. There will be some who are champing at the bit, ready to spring back into more physical connections and broadening their environments. At the other end of the spectrum, there'll be people who are quite comfortable and safe in the four walls of their home and content with their grocery ...shop as their only outing. Then there are those who are somewhere in the middle. There is no right or wrong in our responses. We all have our own personal circumstances, which includes our own unique vulnerabilities, strengths and just ways of being in the world. We should not necessarily expect that we all have the same skills and abilities to cope with the mental load of COVID-19. We will all need different things and will find some aspects harder than others. This is all perfectly normal and understandable. Mental health clinicians frequently talk about the benefits of going slowly. What we mean by this is: slow yourself down enough so you are tuned in to how you are feeling. When we know how we feel, then we can also think about what we need to manage those feelings and to ultimately cope with more change. With my own recent return to work, I was reminded of these things. I expected to be jumping for joy and race out the door. However, come time to leave the house and break my current comfortable routine, my brain decided to try and rescue me from this by asking: Is this the right time?. I then reminded myself of some handy tips: 1. When things feel uncomfortable (change) it’s normal for our brains to find a reason to avoid them, thus eliminating the initial discomfort. 2. Remind your brain of the facts, such as helpful public health messages. 3. Discomfort is normal, but it doesn’t mean the action that I am taking is wrong. So, before you press play again, remind yourself of the things above. Remember kindness to yourself and others is the key. - Contributed by Caroline Thain, Occupational Therapist, headspace Launceston Source: https://www.stlukes.com.au//Before-you-press-play-again.as

18.01.2022 At its meeting today, the Board decided to maintain the targets for the cash rate. "In Australia, the economy is going through a very difficult period and is experiencing the biggest contraction since the 1930s. As difficult as this is, the downturn is not as severe as earlier expected and a recovery is now underway in most of Australia. This recovery is, however, likely to be both uneven and bumpy, with the coronavirus outbreak in Victoria having a major effect on the Victorian economy." You can read more from the RBA here: https://www.rba.gov.au/media-releases/2020/mr-20-20.html

18.01.2022 Today is #RUOKDay. It’s a simple question, but just asking it could lead to a conversation that changes someone’s life. Learn how to keep the conversation going at www.ruok.org.au.

17.01.2022 Have you seen the recent car adverts promoting Guaranteed Future Value? It seems like a good idea, so what does it all mean? What should you be aware of? Simply put, this tactic attempts to leverage your fear that your new car will fall drastically in value, especially when your finance contract has a balloon payment (i.e. a large final repayment at the end of the finance contract). It also puts the dealership in a position to ‘control the second market’ by forcing you to co...me back to them for your next purchase, effectively giving you less choice and often under the guise of ‘supporting their brand’. If you are considering this type of guarantee, take time to review all your options and consider the following important points when making your decision: You may have less choice next time you want to trade this car as you must return to the same dealer. If you elect to go to another dealership, and your balloon payment is above the ‘real market value’, you may have a negative equity position and may need additional finance to assist paying the remaining debt. Dealers may seek to recover any shortfall in the ‘real value’ of the car by charging full retail price on your next purchase, accessories, finance etc. This means you may have fewer opportunities to negotiate on price as the money must come from somewhere! Generally all maintenance must be completed by the dealership’s workshop as a condition of the offer, often at a higher cost than competitors. There will be ‘return conditions’ on the contract capping kilometres travelled and allowing for only ‘fair wear and tear’ on the vehicle. Failure to comply will void the offer or may require you to pay a ‘make up payment’. There may be a ‘sunset clause’ - a date the guarantee offer must be taken up by or it will lapse. This may encourage you to consider upgrading your vehicle earlier than you would like to. Independent resources such as Red Book (www.redbook.com.au) can be used to see how specific car models depreciate over time and help ensure balloon values on finance contracts are realistic without locking into arrangements that may not suit you in the future. An experienced finance broker is well placed to assist you and will have access to a variety of finance options and structures that can be tailored to best suit your needs. So if you are considering upgrading or purchasing a car, contact us today!

17.01.2022 In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, many young adults have been forced out of work and back into the family home. As the pandemic stretches on, how can you manage the added cost of supporting your children and help them get back on their feet? https://www.moneyandlife.com.au//when-your-adult-children-

17.01.2022 Lesson four: We can save more than we think. https://au.finance.yahoo.com//5-money-lessons-that-2020-ta

16.01.2022 Storms have already caused damage across Australia this year. Here are eight simple things that you can do now to prepare your home and help reduce the potential damage caused by severe storms . https://www.ses.nsw.gov.au//simpl/prepare-for-a-storm-now/

16.01.2022 After its meeting today, the Reserve Bank of Australia has left the official cash rate unchanged at 0.25%. We’re experts in helping you find the interest rate, product, features and flexibility you need for your mortgage. With lenders offering great deals including cash rebates, now could be a great time to contact us to review your loans. If you have any concerns about your loans, or your circumstances have changed and you would like a chat, please contact us. We’re here to assist and provide any guidance we can.

16.01.2022 If you've been inactive for a while due to the events of 2020, getting moving again can lead to injuries. Here are some tips to help you get going without hurting yourself. https://www.abc.net.au//how-to-return-to-exercise/12688260

16.01.2022 Despite decades of public health campaigns, skin cancer remains a major threat to health in Australia, with more cases diagnosed each year than all other cancers combined. Here's some common myths busted.

16.01.2022 As we prepare to wrap the year up, many of us make New Year's Resolutions. When it comes to sticking to them, research suggests several practical and easy-to-apply tips.

15.01.2022 Comparing apples with oranges doesn’t make sense. To make finding the right loan easier, and to make advertised rates as transparent as possible, we have comparison rates. You’re looking for a great mortgage deal and you see an ad ‘3.8% INTEREST!’, underneath that is ‘7.9% comparison rate’. What does this mean? What is a comparison rate? A comparison rate aims to indicate the true cost of a loan.... A comparison rate is designed to help you understand the overall cost of a loan based on several relevant factors, rather than just the interest rate. Each comparison rate is calculated using a standard formula: Amount of the loan ($150,000) Interest rate Loan term (25 years) Repayment frequency Fees and charges such as Establishment, Valuation, Exit Costs, Mortgage Documentation and Settlement fees It also takes into account loans with a lower introductory rate that revert to a different interest rate after a set period of time. Why it’s important The goal is to help you make a more accurate comparison when considering different loans. Ensuring all lenders use a standard formula comparison rate makes it much simpler to hold two loan products side by side and see at a glance which one is the better deal financially. Why you need to be careful While comparison rates can be a good starting point, they’re not the only thing to consider. If your loan is going to be for $900,000, the comparison rate for your loan could be vastly different to the standard one. Loan features and benefits, short and long term goals, and product flexibility are just some of the other factors that need to be taken into account. Comparison rates are a very handy tool. It’s important, however, to look at a rate that is specific to your circumstances. One of our friendly Finance Brokers can do exactly that for you, and also ensure your goals, lifestyle and personal circumstances are considered before taking a loan. So why not contact us today to compare?

14.01.2022 Last night, Treasurer John Frydenberg revealed the Australian 2020 Federal Budget. Here is information on how and when Australians will be able to access new tax cuts. https://www.lifehacker.com.au//how-and-when-australia-wil/

14.01.2022 From toddlers to teens, there are money management skills you can teach your kids. https://www.moneyandlife.com.au//5-ways-to-set-your-kids-/

14.01.2022 Trying to save a little money on your bills headed into 2021? This government website helps you calculate how much your appliances are costing you. https://www.energyrating.gov.au/calculator

13.01.2022 Millions of households face higher energy bills this year as a result of stay-at-home orders, but there are ways to soften the blow. Here are three ways to prepare for a larger energy bill. https://thenewdaily.com.au//23/energy-bill-shock-coronavi/

13.01.2022 Whether you’re looking to teach your kids about caring for their mind and body, or after a way for you all to get outdoors, why not give gardening a go?

13.01.2022 "If you're starting to get hot, the dog is hotter." Look after your fur family this summer.

13.01.2022 A little planning can go a long way in the great outdoors.

13.01.2022 Did you know we can organise insurance for more than just cars and homes? Our General Insurance specialists can help in all areas, so give our team a call.

13.01.2022 The Reserve Bank has announced a $100 billion "quantitative easing" program. What does that mean, and why did they do it? https://www.abc.net.au//what-is-quantitative-easi/12842746

12.01.2022 Are you a high income earner? Take out hospital cover with Astute Simplicity Health and avoid paying the Medicare Levy Surcharge* Contact us today or call the team on 1300 090 960 to find out more and to compare your cover.... *The Medicare Levy Surcharge is levied on Australian taxpayers who earn above the income tiers and do not hold an appropriate level of private hospital insurance. Other conditions may apply. See website for details. Health Insurance products are underwritten by St Luke’s Medical and Hospital Benefits Association ACN 009 479 618 (St.LukesHealth), a registered private health insurer, [trading as Astute Simplicity Health] and members are introduced by Astute Financial Management Pty Ltd or related entities (collectively known as Astute) for which Astute receives a commission.

11.01.2022 Our General Insurance brokers do more than just compare on price and terms they listen, understand and care about you when it matters most. Contact us today to speak with one of the experts in our General Insurance Broking team.

11.01.2022 The pandemic has seen a marked increase in the number of people growing indoor plants. And while fun, plants can be expensive. Here's an inexpensive way to get new plants from your existing collection, and can be as simple as snipping off a stem and popping it in water. https://www.broadsheet.com.au//turn-one-plant-many-these-e

11.01.2022 Get yourself into the habit of stopping and thinking about what you're spending! You may find yourself reassessing what you buy and saving more.

11.01.2022 Merry Christmas from all the team.

11.01.2022 All insurance policies are not created equal. Contact us today to get the cover you need.

11.01.2022 Yesterday the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) declared that La Niña has developed in the Pacific Ocean, upgrading from a La Niña ALERT status to an active event. What does this mean for your home and business? Explainer Bureau of Meteorology

11.01.2022 Increasing your car's fuel efficiency can help your bank account and the environment. Here's how you can start. https://www.abc.net.au//driving-tips-to-save-mone/12566182

10.01.2022 2020 was a challenging year for many, so let’s start 2021 on the right foot. Now is a good time to review your needs and set yourself up for the year with our friendly team of professionals on your side. ALL KINDS OF FINANCE Our wide range of home loan options are just the beginning. Whether you’re thinking about a new caravan for a holiday, or upgrading your boat for the next fishing trip, we have the finance option to help. For business owners we can assist with Business In...vestment, Commercial Property, Vehicle and Equipment Finance. GENERAL INSURANCE Our General Insurance team can quote on all types of policies including car, boat, home and any type of business insurance, as well as reviewing options to make sure you have appropriate cover. HEALTH INSURANCE Your health is your most important asset, and it may be a good time to review your private health insurance. Astute Simplicity Health offer sound advice, great coverage, and the personalised service from a dedicated team. FINANCIAL PLANNING In uncertain times it is important to have a plan. Our network of Financial Advisers can tailor solutions to suit your specific needs encompassing superannuation, debt management and investments, supported by appropriate personal insurances to provide certainty for the future. If you would like an obligation free chat to review your needs and goals, contact us today

10.01.2022 The events of this year have encouraged more of us to plan an exploration of our own backyard this spring and summer. Whether it’s to the bush, mountains or out on the water, we’ll all be spending more time out and about in our great country. The first step to your next adventure may be to buy a caravan, camper trailer, motorbike, boat or jetski - and we have a range of competitive finance options to assist and can even handle your insurance. Often more competitive than a p...ersonal loan, leisure finance also has flexible terms and can be structured to meet your specific needs. Need a car to get you where you’re going? While buying a new caravan or jetski can be exciting, you may need more grunt from your vehicle to get it to your destination and buying a car can be a drawn out and stressful experience. You may not be aware that we have access to a car buying service to find, negotiate and buy the car you’re looking for. We can find the car you want at a great price and have it delivered to your home or office for a test drive. We can even handle the trade-in of your old vehicle. If you’re keen to explore our wonderful country this summer, contact us first. We can apply to have your finance pre-approved allowing you to shop with confidence, knowing exactly what you can afford and letting you focus on more important things like planning the perfect local getaway.

10.01.2022 Are you looking to sell your home? Here are some tips to style it like a pro. https://www.moneymag.com.au/tips-getting-house-ready-sell-s

10.01.2022 With lenders advertising fixed rates lower than their variable options, and many of us looking for ways to reduce our financial commitments, you may be considering refinancing to a fixed rate mortgage. If you are thinking about fixing the interest rate on part of, or your whole loan, remember that there are many things to think about before locking it in. Here are some possible pros and cons when fixing a loan.... The good news is that we take the time and the care to ensure you can make an informed decision and make the whole process as straightforward as possible. We will compare lenders and products for you We will explain the pros and cons We will prepare and submit all the paperwork We will be with you from start to finish. If fixing your loan sounds like something you might like to consider, call us today so we can work out the options that best suit your needs.

10.01.2022 Selling your unwanted stuff online is a great way to earn extra money and reduce waste. What have you sold online? https://www.moneymag.com.au/how-to-make-money-selling-stuff

09.01.2022 Astute Simplicity Health have recently extended their cover options, providing you with more choices to suit your lifestyle and finances. Contact us today to find out more or to get a quote.

08.01.2022 Here are 7 ways to ensure over spending isn't your undoing. https://www.moneyandlife.com.au//dont-let-overspending-be/

07.01.2022 Pent-up demand from buyers around Australia is prompting rises in regional property markets across the country despite the pandemic recession.

06.01.2022 Looking to buy in the near future? Here's a few things that house hunters often forget to do, so that you don't.

06.01.2022 Keen for a local holiday? These holiday parks go above and beyond to entertain families and might inspire your next getaway.

06.01.2022 There are many different types of home and contents policies. Contact us now to get the cover you need from our team of General Insurance specialists.

06.01.2022 When was the last time you reviewed your loans?

06.01.2022 If you're thinking about a new caravan, boat or camper in the new year, have a chat to us before you go shopping. We have a range of competitive finance options to assist, and can even handle your insurance. And if you need a bigger car to get the job done, we have access to a car buying service to find, negotiate and buy the car you’re looking for. So if you’re keen to explore our wonderful country, contact us before you buy. We can apply for pre-approval and explain your budget and options, letting you focus on more important things like planning the perfect local getaway.

05.01.2022 If it's been a while since you last got a loan, we've got some new tech to make your transaction a little easier.

05.01.2022 Manage your diabetes with the Snug Health App - free to Astute Simplicity Health members. Connect your digital blood glucose device Record and monitor your blood glucose levels Email your doctor or your family your latest blood glucose readings Send an SMS notification to your emergency contact when your recorded blood glucose readings are low... Record your hbA1c levels Complete your Type 2 diabetes risk calculator Journal your blood glucose and keep track of low and high blood glucose events as they happen, so you can communicate your diabetic event easily with your health professional. Find out more at AstuteSimplicityHealth.com.au

05.01.2022 The festive season can be a busy and expensive time for those with kids. Here are a few ways to save you time and money - you may even help the environment too!

04.01.2022 In response to coronavirus and its continued impact on the economy, the RBA has reduced the official cash rate to an unprecedented 0.1%. With the RBA decision to cut interest rates once again, and lenders offering great deals including cash rebates, now could be a great time to contact us to review your loans. We offer choices from a broad range of lenders allowing us to find a solution that suits your lifestyle and budget, at a great rate.... Contact us today and let’s make sure your mortgage is in the right home and read more about the decision here: https://www.rba.gov.au/speeches/2020/sp-gov-2020-11-03.html

03.01.2022 According to some, 2021 is shaping up to be a strong year for the housing market but certain areas will fare better than others.

02.01.2022 "The Reserve Bank of Australia has flagged keeping the official interest rate at a historical low for the next three years." With these incredibly low interest rates, now's a great time to review your loans. Send us a message to find out more.

02.01.2022 Creating new habits is hard. With these three simple steps you can be underway to building good financial habits in no time. https://www.moneymag.com.au/retrain-brain-bad-money-habits

01.01.2022 You can make a big mistake if you buy something that’s not going to suit you for long...

01.01.2022 Beautiful photos. Scented candles. Jazz music. Here's how to remain calm and focused if you're planning a purchase in 2021.