Credit articles

The pros and cons of pawnshop loans

The pros and cons of pawnshop loans

21 February 2023 · Fiona Zerbst

A pawnshop (or collateral) loan is a fast, convenient way to obtain cash. We consider the pros and cons of these loans, and provide some useful tips.

How to cancel a contract

How to cancel a contract

9 February 2023 · Helen Ueckermann

A valid contract is legally binding, but what if you want out? We consider legal means for exiting a contract, with or without an exit clause.

How to avoid hitting your credit limit

How to avoid hitting your credit limit

7 February 2023 · Fiona Zerbst

Credit is a useful tool, provided you use it responsibly. We consider how credit limits are calculated, and how to manage your credit to stick within your budget.

How to make the most of your credit card

How to make the most of your credit card

4 January 2023 · Fiona Zerbst

Credit cards come with a variety of benefits. This article provides some tips and tricks to reduce the risks and maximise the benefits of credit card ownership.

How to access credit for the first time

How to access credit for the first time

2 January 2023 · Fiona Zerbst

This article outlines ways to access credit products in the absence of a credit score, and notes which products are best suited to first-time credit users.

Will your credit score help you to buy a property?

Will your credit score help you to buy a property?

18 December 2022 · Fiona Zerbst

Your credit score is a key determinant of your home loan eligibility. We consider what your credit score reveals, and provide tips to help you secure a mortgage.

How lenders view your credit score, and how you can improve it

How lenders view your credit score, and how you can improve it

15 December 2022 · Fiona Zerbst

Your credit score is not just a number. This article explains how lenders and credit bureaus view your credit score, and provides some tips for improving it.

A first-time buyer’s guide to home loan pre-approval

A first-time buyer’s guide to home loan pre-approval

13 December 2022 · Fiona Zerbst

We examine what it means to pre-qualify as a first-time home buyer, how the process works, and how bond originators can assist you to secure a home loan.

Is your credit score high enough to access vehicle finance?

Is your credit score high enough to access vehicle finance?

8 December 2022 · Fiona Zerbst

We consider the role your credit score plays when you apply for vehicle finance, and note ways to improve your score so you can buy a car.

How to break poor credit habits

How to break poor credit habits

1 November 2022 · Fiona Zerbst

We investigate how poor credit habits can impact your financial health, and we consider what you can do to break them

How to fund your postgraduate studies

How to fund your postgraduate studies

10 October 2022 · Isabelle Coetzee

Postgraduate studies often require self-financing, however, there are other options. This article outlines postgraduate funding options.

What are the cheapest credit options?

What are the cheapest credit options?

2 October 2022 · Fiona Zerbst

In this article, we consider which forms of credit best match specific needs, factors you should consider when applying for credit, and how to limit your need to borrow.