The best way for people to invest in their future is to increase their financial knowledge. From next month, free financial information sessions are available for people in the electorate of Kingsford Smith. Minister for Human Services Senator Kim Carr encouraged people to take advantage of the assistance. “The Australian Government is committed to ensuring all Australians can make informed decisions about investment and financial issues for their current and future financial needs,” Senator...

BORROWERS have been warned to think carefully before locking in home loan rates with new figures showing a four-year high of homeowners choosing fixed rates. Australian Bureau of Statistics data shows the number of fixed home loan rates in March was 14.5 per cent - the highest since May 2008 (14.2 per cent). Westpac yesterday announced a cut to its interest rates on short-term fixed rates by 0.2 per cent to 6.19 per cent.Comparison website RateCity yesterday urged borrowers to be cautious befo...

THE number of first home buyers in NSW has plunged since the state government killed stamp duty concessions. In figures released yesterday by the Australian Bureau of Statistics, the number of first home buyers in NSW has fallen almost 50 per cent in the three months since the concession was taken away. In the budget last year, treasurer Mike Baird announced that from January, first home buyers purchasing existing homes would have to pay transfer title charges on properties under $600,000. Exe...

The Reserve Bank's latest action could create some movement at the entry level. The latest 50-basis-point cut in the cash rate by the Reserve Bank looks set to stimulate sales, a welcome move that could push up prices in at least two key property categories. Analysts expect buyer demand for entry-level properties priced less than $600,000, and inner-city period houses priced up to $1.2 million, to move up a notch or two in coming weeks. Investors target sub-$600,000 properties heavily. Many beli...

Don’t let the chilly weather put you off! Rug up and come and check out Randwick Council’s Community Nursery Open Day on Saturday, June 2. The nursery specialises in native and indigenous plants perfect for our sandy soils and coastal conditions, as well stocking plenty of exotic species too. Council’s specialist horticultural staff will be on hand to answer all your questions and provide advice on plant selection for your garden for the coming winter season, as well as offering you tips o...