The proposed negative gearing changes have generated plenty of headlines. But what do they actually mean for a typical Australian investor? Perth mortgage broker Ian Freeman runs the real numbers on a $750,000 investment property — and the answer may surprise you.

Building a new home in WA? Construction loans work very differently to a standard home loan — and most buyers don't realise that until they're already in the process. Perth mortgage broker Ian Freeman explains progress draws, interest during construction, and what lenders actually need to approve the finance.

Refinancing sounds straightforward — but done at the wrong time or for the wrong reasons, it can cost more than it saves. Perth mortgage broker Ian Freeman explains the break-even calculation, the loyalty tax, and exactly when refinancing makes sense.

LMI gets talked about like a punishment for not saving enough. But is paying it always the wrong call? Perth mortgage broker Ian Freeman explains what LMI actually is, what it costs, and when it might be smarter to pay it than to wait.

Most first home buyers don't fully understand what's happening at each stage of the buying process — or what they're supposed to do next. Perth mortgage broker Ian Freeman maps out every step from finance preparation through to settlement day.

You don't always need a 20% deposit to buy in Perth — but getting the numbers wrong can cost you thousands. Ian Freeman breaks down exactly what different deposit levels mean, what LMI really costs, and which government schemes could get you into the market sooner.

The Federal Budget has changed the negative gearing rules for established properties from 1 July 2027 — but has it killed debt recycling? Perth mortgage broker Ian Freeman breaks down what still works, what has changed, and how to think about the strategy going forward.

Rates are rising again in 2026 and the fixed versus variable question is back with urgency. Perth mortgage broker Ian Freeman explains how to make the right call — without basing it on a rate prediction nobody can reliably make.

Homeowners who bought before Budget night (12 May 2026) may be able to retain their home as a grandfathered negatively geared investment and buy a new property to live in. Ian Freeman explains how the strategy works and why the loan structure is everything.

The 2026 Federal Budget explicitly exempted SMSFs from new negative gearing restrictions — making SMSF property investment more attractive than ever. Ian Freeman explains how SMSF property works, the rules, tax advantages, and what you need to qualify.

The 2026 Federal Budget announced major changes to negative gearing and CGT for property investors. Ian Freeman breaks down exactly what's changed, what's grandfathered, and what it means for your investment strategy going forward.

Perth home values rose 26% in the past year — the strongest of any Australian capital city. For first home buyers, the cost of waiting is now measurable. Ian Freeman explains what the current market means for you, and what government schemes are available right now.

When the RBA raises rates, your mortgage repayments follow — but a rate rise is also a useful prompt to check whether your loan is still competitive. Perth mortgage broker Ian Freeman explains the real dollar impact, when refinancing makes sense, and the right first step to take.

House & land package or established home — which is the better choice for Perth first home buyers? Ian Freeman breaks down the lending structure, WA grant eligibility, and key risks of each option so you can make a clear decision before signing anything.

Confused by mortgage advice online? This article cuts through the hype and explains what actually matters when choosing and managing an Australian home loan. Written by Ian Freeman, mortgage broker, Perth WA.

Most home loan declines are preventable. Ian Freeman, Perth mortgage broker, explains the real reasons loans get declined — existing debts, income type, credit history, deposit quality — and the practical steps to fix them before you apply.

"How much can I borrow?" is the first question most first home buyers ask — and one of the most misunderstood. Perth mortgage broker Ian Freeman explains what really drives borrowing capacity and why the number a calculator gives you may be very different from what a lender will actually approve.

Most Perth first home buyers believe they need a 20% deposit. In reality, many get in with far less — but the structure, lender choice, and WA government schemes available to you make all the difference. Ian Freeman explains what you actually need.