Apartment vs Houses: What Every Home Buyer Should Know

Leave a Comment / Interest Rates, Mortgage Broker, Mortgage Broker Brisbane, Mortgage Broker Maroochydore, Mortgage Broker Melbourne / mitch

Choosing between an apartment and a house is one of the biggest decisions a home buyer will make. It sounds simple, but as property advocate Amy Lunardi explained on the Should’ve Bought That podcast, the right choice depends on far more than price. Your strategy, lifestyle and long-term goals all influence which property type is the better fit. For many people, the confusion stems from trying to compare apartments and houses as if they serve the same purpose, they don’t. And once you understand that distinction, the decision becomes much clearer. The first step, according to Amy, is knowing why you want to buy. Many buyers enter the market because of external pressure — from parents, peers or rising prices — and start searching without a plan. This often leads to frustration or unrealistic expectations. Your “why” gives you direction. It helps you understand what you are actually trying to achieve and which property type supports that goal. When an Apartment Makes More Sense Amy explains that apartments can be an excellent choice for buyers who prioritise lifestyle. Being close to work, public transport, shops, parks or social networks often matters more than having additional bedrooms or land. For many young buyers, location shapes daily life more than the size of the dwelling. Apartments also tend to be lower-maintenance, which appeals to people with busy schedules or those who prefer simplicity. In some cases, apartments also perform better financially than people expect. Amy has seen apartments in tightly held and highly desirable suburbs outperform houses located much further from the city. This means apartments cannot be dismissed as “poor investments” without considering suburb, demand and building type. A well-located apartment may deliver better growth and a stronger lifestyle outcome than a house bought purely for size. When considering an apartment, buyers should still be selective. Boutique blocks, solid maintenance records, sensible owners corporation fees and a practical layout all contribute to a better long-term result. Amy encourages buyers to ensure the apartment aligns with their goals rather than relying on generalised advice about property types. When a House Is the Better Option Houses appeal to buyers looking for long-term growth, land and flexibility. Extra space, renovation potential and independence from owners corporations offer strong lifestyle and financial advantages. A house may also be more suitable for people planning to start or grow a family. But the trade-off is location. A house in the same suburb as an apartment might cost two to three times as much. This means buyers often need to consider suburbs further from their ideal area in order to purchase a house. For some, that distance is acceptable. For others, it significantly reduces quality of life. Amy encourages buyers to be honest about what they are willing to compromise. If you gain land but lose daily convenience, will you still be happy in five years? Houses can deliver excellent long-term outcomes, but only when purchased in a suburb that suits your lifestyle and future plans. If the only way to secure a house is to move well beyond your comfort zone, an apartment may actually be the more strategic option at this stage of life. Why Apartments and Houses Can’t Be Compared Directly One of Amy’s strongest points is that apartments and houses often belong to completely different price brackets within the same suburb. Because the financial and lifestyle realities differ so much, comparing them side-by-side is misleading. The real question is not “which is better?” but rather “which is better for me right now?” Thinking this way helps buyers avoid unrealistic expectations. It also prevents them from chasing a property type that doesn’t match their borrowing power or long-term plan. A mortgage broker australia can help clarify what is actually possible, which is why Amy recommends buyers speak with a broker early — even before they have saved their full deposit. Balancing Budget, Location and Expectations Amy uses a structured “homework” process with every client. It ensures they understand what they want, what they can afford and what actually exists in the market. The method involves defining the budget, selecting suitable suburbs, identifying non-negotiables and then testing all of that against recent sales. Most buyers skip this step and end up overwhelmed or disappointed. After reviewing six to eight months of sold properties, you’ll quickly see whether your criteria are realistic. If no properties meet your requirements, something must change — either the budget, locations or expectations. If many properties fit, you can be more selective. This homework applies equally to apartments and houses. It stops buyers from searching for properties that simply do not exist within their chosen price and suburb range. Amy also reminds buyers to stress-test their thinking. If you call something a non-negotiable, ask yourself whether you would still consider the perfect property if it didn’t tick that box. This approach helps separate true priorities from nice-to-have features, reducing the risk of dismissing a great property for the wrong reasons. Apartment or House: A Simple Way to Decide If lifestyle and location matter most, an apartment in a great suburb may offer the best outcome. If long-term growth and space are your priorities, a house may be worth stretching for — as long as the suburb still suits your life. Both options can work for a home buyer when they align with a clear strategy. FAQ’s Should I buy an apartment or a house as a first home buyer?It depends on your lifestyle, goals and budget. An apartment may offer convenience and location, while a house may offer long-term growth and space. Are apartments bad investments?Not necessarily. Apartments in strong, tightly held suburbs can outperform houses further out. How do I know if my expectations are realistic?Compare your criteria to recent sales. If nothing aligns, adjust your brief. Can a mortgage broker help me decide?Yes. A mortgage broker helps you understand borrowing power and how each property type fits your financial plan. Book a Free Consultation with Mitch Book a free

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The Art of the Auction: Smart Strategies for Home Buyers and Investors

Leave a Comment / Mortgage Broker, Mortgage Broker Brisbane, Mortgage Broker Maroochydore, Mortgage Broker Melbourne, Mortgage Broker Sunshine Coast / mitch

Buying a property at auction can be one of the most thrilling — and intimidating — moments in a home buyer’s or investor’s journey. Fast bidding, big emotions, and public pressure can make or break your success. But as seasoned auctioneer Greg Brydon shared on Should’ve Bought That by Ynance, mastering the art of the auction is about preparation, psychology, and confidence. Here’s what you need to know before you raise your hand on auction day. Understanding How Auctions Work in Australia An auction is a transparent way to sell property, but it moves fast. In most Australian states — especially Victoria and New South Wales — auctions are the preferred way to sell homes.As Greg explains, “Emotion plays drastically into the auction campaign. Buyers have seconds, not hours, to decide what they’ll pay.” On-site vs In-room Auctions Both types rely on the same fundamentals — confidence, strategy, and emotional control. How Interest Rates and Confidence Affect Bidding Auction results often reflect buyer confidence more than financial conditions.According to Greg, even when interest rates barely move, “it changes how confident people feel about heading to an auction.” In 2025, Melbourne and Sydney lead the country in auction volumes, with clearance rates sitting around 70%. That confidence tells us one thing — auctions remain central to the Australian property market. Top Auction Strategies for Buyers 1. Be Prepared Before You Bid Preparation starts well before auction day: “Preparation is the best thing for buyers,” says Greg. “Whether that’s inspections or a pre-valuation from the bank — just make sure it all stacks up.” 2. Know When to Strike Greg’s golden rule: “If you’re going to lose, lose quickly.”Don’t drag out emotional bidding. Instead, start with strength and clarity. If the quoted range is $1–1.1 million and your budget is $1.15 million, consider opening high — around $1.12 million. That bold move can knock out the competition early and stop momentum building against you. 3. Stay Calm and Strategic Every auction has a rhythm.Greg describes four types of bidders: Knowing which one you are — and how others behave — can help you stay composed and tactical. 4. Communicate with the Agent One of the biggest mistakes buyers make? Staying silent.Agents often know who’s serious and who isn’t. Being upfront about your interest and conditions can make a difference. As Greg puts it, “The easier you are to deal with as a buyer, the better the agent will be to you.” Auction or Private Sale — What’s Better? Even as an auctioneer, Greg doesn’t believe every property suits auction.“It’s property dependent,” he says. “The main difference between auction and private sale is emotion. Auctions run on emotion — and that’s what drives results.” Still, auctions create a fair, competitive environment where serious buyers meet serious sellers. For well-prepared buyers, that emotion can work in their favour. Book a Free Consultation with Mitch Book a free consultation with Mitch. Mitch offers a free, no-obligation consultation focused on your specific property goals. Mitch services home buyers and investors living in Melbourne, Maroochydore, Brisbane or Sunshine Coast in Australia. Click through now to book your free call and start preparing for your next property opportunity.

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The Buyer’s Decision Quadrant: How to Buy Property with Confidence

Leave a Comment / Mortgage Broker, Mortgage Broker Brisbane, Mortgage Broker Maroochydore, Mortgage Broker Melbourne, Mortgage Broker Sunshine Coast / mitch

Buying a home or investment property can feel overwhelming — auctions, bidding wars, endless inspections, and conflicting advice from family and friends. It’s no wonder many Australians hesitate to act, even when the right property is within reach. In this podcast episode of Should’ve Bought That by Ynance, buyer’s agent Matt Skehan joins Mitch to unpack his Buyer’s Decision Quadrant — a framework that helps buyers cut through noise and make confident, well-informed property decisions. Whether you’re a first-home buyer or a seasoned investor, this quadrant offers a clear path to success. What’s Happening in the Melbourne Market Matt explains that Melbourne remains one of Australia’s most competitive markets, with strong demand for quality, move-in-ready homes. Renovation costs and trade shortages mean buyers are favouring finished properties over “fixer-uppers.” But that doesn’t mean opportunity is gone. For those who prepare early, secure finance, and work with the right team — including an experienced mortgage broker in Australia — there are still great buys available. Levelling the Playing Field A selling agent works for the vendor. A buyer’s agent, like Matt, represents you. They help clients: With buyer’s agents growing in popularity, time-poor professionals and investors are realising they no longer have to navigate the complex real estate game alone. The Four Pillars of a Smart Purchase Matt’s buyer’s decision quadrant boils property decisions down to four key factors — in this exact order of importance: This structure helps buyers stay focused on value, not vanity. It’s a simple but powerful way to remove emotion and make rational decisions. Start with Education, Not Emotion Matt sees many first-time buyers chasing homes they can’t afford or making compromises under pressure. His advice: “Most people jump on the listing sites,” says Matt, “but if you start with the sold tab, you’ll learn what properties actually sell for. That knowledge sets you up to win.” Buy for the Long Term Markets move, rates change, and media headlines come and go — but property remains a long-term asset. Matt urges investors to focus on fundamentals: He also highlights Geelong as an emerging opportunity: strong yields, good lifestyle appeal, and infrastructure growth. Education Beats Hesitation The biggest challenge Matt sees isn’t finance or supply — it’s mindset. “Everyone’s got an opinion,” he says. “Uncle Mick at the barbecue might mean well, but that doesn’t make him right.” Overcoming hesitation means trusting your preparation and your professional team. A good buyer’s agent and mortgage broker will help you cut through emotion and base your decision on data, not doubt. Book a free consultation with Mitch. Mitch offers a free, no-obligation consultation focused on your specific property goals. Mitch services home buyers and investors living in Melbourne, Maroochydore, Brisbane or Sunshine Coast in Australia. Click through now to book your free call and start preparing for your next property opportunity.

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How to Shorten the Lifespan of Your Home Loan

Leave a Comment / Interest Rates, Mortgage Broker, Mortgage Broker Brisbane, Mortgage Broker Maroochydore, Mortgage Broker Melbourne / mitch

Buying a home is one of life’s biggest milestones — but the thought of paying off a 30-year loan can feel daunting. Many Australians assume they’ll be repaying their mortgage well into retirement. However, as Mitch Woods from Ynance explains, smart repayment habits and structure choices can help home buyers and investors dramatically shorten the lifespan of their loan — often without stretching their budget. In this article, Mitch breaks down simple, proven ways to pay off your home loan faster while maintaining financial stability. Why Repayment Frequency Matters Most lenders default borrowers to monthly repayments. While that may feel manageable, it’s not necessarily the most efficient way to pay off a mortgage. Switching to Weekly or Fortnightly Payments Interest on home loans is calculated daily. By making repayments more frequently, borrowers reduce the average daily balance on which interest is charged.For example, if you split your monthly repayment into fortnightly payments, you’ll make the equivalent of one extra monthly payment each year — shaving years off your loan term and saving thousands in interest. Even small adjustments can compound over time. Paying an extra $100–$200 each fortnight may not feel significant, but over the life of a 30-year loan, it can make a major difference. Leverage the Power of an Offset Account Another effective strategy for shortening your loan term is using an offset account. How Offset Accounts Work An offset account operates like a regular transaction account, but it’s linked to your home loan. The balance in the account offsets the amount owed on your loan, reducing the interest charged.For example, if you have a $500,000 loan and $50,000 in your offset account, you’ll only be charged interest on $450,000. Maximising Your Offset Account Mitch recommends keeping your offset account balance as high as possible for as long as possible. Many clients achieve this by: This ensures funds remain in the offset account longer, reducing interest and accelerating loan repayment. Avoid Over-Borrowing Banks may approve you for a larger amount than you actually need — but borrowing at your maximum capacity can slow your progress. Borrow Within Your Means Mitch advises clients to avoid stretching their borrowing power to the limit. A smaller loan provides flexibility to make extra repayments and build buffers for unexpected costs.Remember: your home loan is typically your biggest expense. Being overextended can prevent you from taking advantage of opportunities to pay your loan down faster. The Key to Long-Term Success Shortening the lifespan of your home loan isn’t about radical change — it’s about consistent, considered habits. Increasing repayment frequency, using an offset account effectively, and avoiding unnecessary debt can reduce your loan term by years. Book a free consultation with Mitch Mitch offers a free, no-obligation consultation focused on your specific property goals. Mitch services home buyers and investors living in Melbourne, Maroochydore, Brisbane or Sunshine Coast in Australia. Click through now to book your free call and start preparing for your next property opportunity.

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Building vs Buying a Home in Australia: What’s the Smarter Move?

Leave a Comment / Mortgage Broker, Mortgage Broker Brisbane, Mortgage Broker Maroochydore, Mortgage Broker Melbourne, Mortgage Broker Sunshine Coast / mitch

When you picture your next home, are you standing on a vacant block ready to build your dream, or walking through the front door of an established property that’s move-in ready?It’s a question many Australian buyers face — should you build or buy? In this episode of Should’ve Bought That by Ynance, builder Adam Earey shares honest insights from over a decade in the trade. From foundations and soil quality to builder selection and council delays, this guide explores what really matters before you commit to your next property. Weighing Up the Real Costs of Building vs Buying Buying an existing home can feel simpler, but it often hides extra costs. Older properties may have subfloor issues, poor foundations, or outdated materials that require major repairs. Building, meanwhile, gives you the advantage of new materials, better energy efficiency, and custom design — but it comes with planning, permit, and construction costs. Hidden Costs When Buying Hidden Costs When Building As Adam notes, “Every situation is different. The best choice depends on the condition of the property, your budget, and long-term goals.” How Land Quality Impacts Your Build Before you build, understanding the soil rating and block characteristics is essential. In new estates or subdivided land, soil reports determine foundation design and cost. Poor soil requires deeper footings and more steel reinforcement, while tree roots can destabilise the ground and demand costly root barriers. Earey also stresses the value of flat, well-drained land. Sloping blocks offer great views but higher excavation costs. What you save on purchase price can be lost in site preparation. Choosing the Right Builder When selecting a builder, look beyond price.A registered builder should have an official licence (Domestic Builder – Unlimited) and a clear portfolio of completed homes.Ask for client references, detailed specifications, and clarity around what’s included in your contract. “The more questions you ask, the better your feel for the builder,” says Earey. “It’s about relationship and transparency as much as construction quality.” For custom builds, smaller local builders often offer greater flexibility and attention to detail than high-volume firms. Larger builders may deliver faster, but their designs are often fixed, and custom changes are limited. Renovate, Knock Down, or Start Fresh? If your current home has “good bones” — sound structure, solid foundations, and quality materials — a renovation or extension can be a smart way to add value without starting over.But for homes with poor layout, low energy ratings, or crumbling stumps, a knock-down rebuild can be the better long-term investment. Modern homes must now meet a minimum 7-star energy rating, meaning improved insulation, double glazing, and energy-efficient design. This not only reduces running costs but can also increase future resale value. Timeline and Planning Considerations From permits to final handover, a typical four-bedroom build takes around nine months — though delays can occur if materials or approvals take longer.Buyers should factor in holding costs, interest on the land, and potential delays from council or suppliers. Contracts usually include liquidated damages clauses, which protect the buyer if the builder exceeds the agreed timeframe. Always review these with your broker or legal adviser before signing. When to Speak with a Mortgage Broker Whether you’re buying or building, early conversations with a mortgage broker in Australia can save time and money.A broker can help you: Frequently Asked Questions Is it cheaper to build or buy a home in Australia? It depends on land costs, soil quality, and the level of finish. In regional areas, building can be more cost-effective, while established metro properties often hold stronger resale value. What’s the biggest hidden cost when building? Soil and site preparation. Poor soil can require deep foundations and additional steel, adding thousands to your budget. Can I get a loan before finalising my builder? Yes. A mortgage broker can help secure pre-approval based on your estimated build cost, then finalise the loan once your builder contract is confirmed. How long does council approval take? If your plans comply with zoning and setback rules, permits may take only a few weeks. If town planning or dispensations are required, expect one to two months extra. Book a free consultation with Mitch. Mitch offers a free, no-obligation consultation focused on your specific property goals. Mitch services home buyers and investors living in Melbourne, Maroochydore, Brisbane or Sunshine Coast in Australia. Click through now to book your free call and start preparing for your next property opportunity.

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To sell or not to sell property in 2023?

Leave a Comment / Mortgage Broker Sunshine Coast / mitch

To sell or not to sell in 2023? Never sell property. That’s the common saying that is bandied around quite regularly in the real estate industry. It’s been tried, tested, and continues to be a key driver of wealth amongst Australians. I agree wholeheartedly with the philosophy and strategy. Land appreciates as time evolves and it’s quite common to see property prices double within 10-20 years of ownership. If you invest wisely and with a ‘long-term lens’, this can set you up for life. However, the market we’re currently in is unprecedented. Nine rate rises in twelve months has never been seen before. (you know it’s legitimate when the governor of the RBA is a household name). Household budgets have been stretched beyond repair and investments have swapped from positively geared to a negative surplus in a matter of months. If you have a home loan or a property portfolio, how long do you hold on for and at what cost?If you’re an owner-occupier (on an average loan of $500k), your loan repayments have increased by $1000 a month. With the rising cost of living, this may put many in the mortgage stress category. Can you sell at a surplus and move into a lower asset class? If not, renting may be the only feasible option, however your surplus may get eaten up by excessive rent costs. In our view, protect your home for as long as possible (within reason) and hold on to your largest asset. If you’re an investor, there are more options available. Are the repayments on your investment properties eating into your lifestyle? If so, is there an opportunity to increase the rent or refinance to a lower rate? If these strategies don’t work, can you sell and pivot to a different asset class? There’s a potential to sell and generate a surplus and wait for a lower investment purchase in the future. As this is not centred around your place of residence, you have more choice and opportunity to pivot. If you’re an investor, be open to the possibilities and a pivot in your strategy. Times like these call for an open mind and potentially a ‘change of course’ from that famous philosophy that you should never sell property.

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Where to now for the property market?

How to find the best mortgage broker on the Sunshine Coast?

Leave a Comment / Mortgage Broker Sunshine Coast / mitch

How to find the best mortgage broker on the Sunshine Coast? Finding a reputable and experienced mortgage broker on the Sunshine Coast Factors to consider when choosing a broker Online resources for finding a good broker Warning signs to watch out for when selecting a broker 1. Finding a reputable and experienced mortgage broker on the Sunshine Coast When searching for a mortgage broker on the Sunshine Coast, it’s essential to consider a few key factors to ensure you find a reputable and experienced professional who can help you secure the best mortgage deal for your needs. A mortgage broker acts as an intermediary between you and the lender and can save you a lot of time and stress when securing a mortgage. However, with so many brokers to choose from, it can take time to figure out where to start. The process of finding the perfect mortgage broker can be overwhelming, and you might be wondering if you’re making the right choice. But don’t worry. By considering a few key factors, you can be sure that you are choosing a reputable and experienced professional who will guide you through the mortgage process and help you secure the best deal for your needs. 2. What factors should I consider when searching for a Sunshine Coast broker? Experience and qualifications: Look for a mortgage broker who has been in the industry for several years and holds relevant qualifications, such as a diploma in finance and mortgage broking. A qualified broker will have the knowledge and expertise to guide you through the mortgage application process and help you find the right loan for your needs. You can check a broker’s qualifications by visiting the Mortgage & Finance Association of Australia (MFAA) website: https://www.mfaa.com.au/ or the Australian Finance Group (AFG) https://www.afg.com.au/our-brokers. Range of products: Choose a mortgage broker who can access a wide range of products from different lenders, giving you more options. A broker with access to a range of products will be able to find a loan that suits your specific needs, whether you’re a first-time homebuyer looking to refinance or invest in property. You can check the list of lenders they have access to on the broker’s website or ask them directly. Fees: Be sure to understand the costs of using a mortgage broker’s services and compare these with other brokers to ensure you’re getting a good deal. Some brokers charge a fee for their service, while others may receive a commission from the lender. You can check the costs on the broker’s website or ask them directly. It’s important to note that a mortgage broker’s services can save you time and money in the long run, even if a fee is involved. Communication and customer service: Look for a broker who is easy to communicate with and responsive to your needs, as this will make securing a mortgage much more manageable. A good broker will keep you informed, answer any questions you may have, and be available to discuss your options. You can check the reviews of the broker on the website like https://www.productreview.com or in www.google/businessreviews.com 3. Online resources for finding a good broker The Mortgage and Finance Association of Australia (MFAA) has an online directory to search for mortgage brokers by location. You can also check the broker’s accreditation on the website. www.mfaa.com.au The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) also has a register of mortgage brokers that you can search for. This register includes information on the broker’s qualifications, credit history, and any disciplinary action against them.https://moneysmart.gov.au/home-loans/using-a-mortgage-broker Online review sites can also be a helpful resource for finding a reputable broker, as you can see what other customers have to say about their experiences. By reading reviews from previous customers, you can get a sense of the level of customer service a broker provides, their level of expertise, and their ability to secure the best deal for their clients. It’s worth noting that not all reviews are genuine, so be sure to read a variety of reviews from different sources to get a well-rounded understanding of a broker. 4. Warning signs to watch out for when selecting a broker Pressure to sign up: Be wary of any broker who pressures you to sign up for a mortgage before you’ve had a chance to consider your options thoroughly. A reputable broker will understand that a mortgage is a significant financial commitment and will give you the time and space to make the right decision. Unfamiliarity with products: If a broker is not familiar with the products they are offering or cannot answer your questions, it may be a red flag that they need the level of experience you need. A good broker can provide detailed information on the different loan options available and help you understand the pros and cons of each. High fees or commissions: Be careful of any broker who charges high fees or commissions, as this could cost you more in the long run. Compare the prices of different brokers and ensure you understand how they are paid before deciding. Lack of transparency: Trustworthy brokers will be open and transparent about their fees and how they are paid, so be wary of any broker who is mysterious or unclear. A good broker will clearly explain their fees and commission structure and be happy to answer any questions you may have. In conclusion, finding the right mortgage broker on the Sunshine Coast can be daunting, but with the correct information and a little research, you can secure the best deal for your needs. That’s where Ynance comes in. At Ynance, we are dedicated to helping our clients achieve their property dreams. We understand that every client has unique needs, so we offer a wide range of products from different lenders, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs. Our team of experienced and qualified brokers will guide you through the mortgage application process, providing the support you need to make the best decision. We pride ourselves on our

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mitch

Apartment vs Houses: What Every Home Buyer Should Know

The Art of the Auction: Smart Strategies for Home Buyers and Investors

The Buyer’s Decision Quadrant: How to Buy Property with Confidence

How to Shorten the Lifespan of Your Home Loan

Building vs Buying a Home in Australia: What’s the Smarter Move?

To sell or not to sell property in 2023?

Where to now for the property market?

How to find the best mortgage broker on the Sunshine Coast?

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We help our clients achieve their property dreams. we’ll take the time to understand your goals and aspirations, with your financial welfare front of mind.

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