The finance and mortgage market in Australia today can be characterized as tight, but buyers can still find some great deals on home mortgages if they shop around. For instance, until the end of June National Australia Bank's online operation UBank is offering rates as low as 6.59% with no fees.

That is a full 1% cheaper than the NAB standard variable loan rate of 7.67%. However, this offer is only available on refinance loans, so it won't be helpful to first time home buyers. Commonwealth Bank is offering a new 'No Fee' mortgage with a rate of 7.24% as well, which is about a .5% discount to the CBA's standard variable rate of 7.81% with no fees. ING Direct has also trimmed the rate on its Orange Advantage offset home loan, taking the rate down to as low as 6.99% for those with a mortgage between $300,000 and $500,000.

In these times of economic challenges and uncertainty, deciding whether or not to have a financial planner is a major consideration one has to contend with. Choosing the right financial planner to fit your needs and budget could be an ever bigger task.

Studies have showed that consumers do not have a high regard for financial planners, nor of the financial industry. Based on results gathered from a recent consumer survey, First Command Financial Behaviors Index reveals that only 3 out of every 10 respondents have financial planners. However, 90% of those working with their financial planner say they trust them. This gained trust is heavily based on subjective factors such as a positive working relationship, quality service, patience, honesty, and good sound advice. Financial savvy and grounded morale support could be the winning combination here.

The mortgage application process has gotten a lot tougher in the US since the housing crisis began, but following some basic mortgage tips can help you to navigate the exhaustive array of paperwork successfully. You should start by requesting your free credit report from the three agencies: Experian, TransUnion and Equifax.

Make sure the information on each is correct. Then organize all your financial documents, because lenders will ask for at least two months of pay stubs and bank statements. Pull out all of your most recent federal tax returns, W-2's and 401k statements as well. Try to keep your finances simple for at least two months prior to your application. Any unusual deposits or overdraws on your checking account will look questionable to lenders. You will also want to document your down payment if it taps money from an inheritance, money market fund or other account.