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From August this year the State Goverment is changing the way stamp duty is calculated for the purchase of property. No longer will there be different levels of stamp duty for investors and owner-occupiers. One size fits all. So if you are a future buyer, or if you are a Real Estate Agent then how will they affect you? Listed below is the old figure alongside what you will pay post August 1st.

The July 5th announcement by the RBA to leave rates on hold for the 7th consecutive month came as no surprise to me. Inflation figures have proved what I have been saying all the time, "that we are not in as good a shape as the RBAthinks we are". But thats not all bad, we have been saving..so the money is still there.

I am always amazed when I speak to people that they are in many cases paying standard variable rates for their home loan, or worse - when they don't have to. The sad thing is that it costs them valuable dollars in these tough times!

The Federal Budget was considered lack-lustre by many commentators when it was delivered in early May but there are a few surprises in it that will be sure to have an effect on your home loan and your spending future.

New home loan borrowers are lapping up at an increasing rate the range of ongoing discount products on offer. Every state saw a rise in demand for this loan type during April as it reached a high of 30% of Mortgage Choice's new loan approvals nationally.

Some people are unaware certain aspects of their debt history, including bill defaults and applications for loans and credit cards, are on file and made available to lenders and other credit providers.

Like all investments it pays to do your homework before you take the plunge into property investment. But even with uncertainties around interest rates, a sound strategy can pay off. The shortage of rental properties, combined with rising prices in most markets, means that if you choose the right property and make sure you keep a close eye on your investment, you could reap the rewards. Here are 7 property investment tips to help you get the most from your investment: Take a long term view Choose the right investment property Consider positive vs negative gearing Consider using existing equity in any other property you own Consider buying with friends and family Choose the right investment property loan tailored to your current needs Seek professional advice If you want to find out more, contact your local Mortgage Choice broker to get help in finding the most suitable investment property loan for you.

Are you eligible for the First Home Owners Grant? You are eligible for the Australian Government's First Home Owner Grant if you: Are an Australian citizen or permanent resident Are buying or building your first home in Australia Have the intention of occupying the property as your principal place of residence within 12 months of the settlement and living in it continuously for at least 6 months