For anyone with a mortgage, or if you are thinking about the prospect of one, to fix or not to fix the home loan rate is a hot topic. While we would need a crystal ball to know just where the cash rate and associated fixed rates might land in the year ahead, our lead article drills down into market predictions, and what you should consider if you’re thinking of locking in a fixed term.

With the cost of living up, many are feeling the pinch as they juggle household finances. If you’re on the hunt for ways to counteract an ever-growing grocery bill, check out Haven Food. We’ve got a delicious, budget-friendly chicken casserole recipe that will feed four for under $20.

As housing affordability continues to put home ownership beyond the grasp of many Australians, we chat with two friends who pooled resources to make the dream of having their own home a reality. Our lead story explores the ins and outs of turning to mates to help get a foothold on the property ladder.

You’ve found the place you want to buy, but do you have a solid grasp on the difference between what you can borrow to finance it, versus what you should borrow? Figuring out the ‘can’ as opposed to the ‘should’ mortgage sweet spot involves multiple factors, and our Borrowers Dilemma story steps you through everything to consider.

Putting a call out to the Fido and Fluffy owners. We’re running a pet and their person lookalike competition. If you look like your pet, send in a photo of the two of you together for the chance to win $1,000.

Do you have any idea what a home loan really ends up costing over the life of a mortgage? Thanks to the interest paid over an average 30-year loan term, the figures are eye-watering. Our lead article closely inspects the figures and delves into the simple yet incredibly effective strategies that can carve thousands of dollars off the life of a loan.

If you’re in the market to sell a property, we look at the list of issues that you are now legally obliged to declare upon selling, thanks to new property laws coming into play in most Australian States. The list is also worth a look if you are a prospective home buyer interested in knowing your rights when purchasing.

For many of us, hand-in-hand with summer comes a slower pace once the holiday break hits. I hope that as your year draws to a close, you find some downtime with those dear to you. I wish you season’s greetings and look forward to seeing you again in the new year.