The Valentine’s day launch of NAB’S bold ‘break-up’ campaign and their offer to pay exit fees to lure customers from CBA or Westpac ignited the so-called ‘price war’ currently underway between the four major banks. Over the past three weeks, Westpac, CBA and ANZ fired back at NAB. Westpac was first with an offer to waive annual fees on some loans and discount some rates. CBA followed with their ‘no fee’ variable rate home loan and trumped NAB’s offer by offering $1200 to NAB customers refinancing to CBA. ANZ launched new discounted interest rates last week.

If this activity has caused you to wonder how competitive your home loan rate is and whether you could benefit from the ‘price war’ - please do not hesitate to call us to review your situation. Some of the discounted rates and offers that have been announced only apply to new loans and, of course, all of the offers are subject to criteria. When considering switching, it’s important to look at the special deals closely and understand the true cost of refinancing. Please do not hesitate to call us on 9429 9775.

As expected, the RBA kept rates on hold for March, and analysts expect more of the same for at least a couple more months. Feedback we have received indicates many clients are making the most of the pause in rates by putting more in to their mortgage. Getting ahead on your mortgage when it’s possible is always a strategy we encourage. If you would like to check how to make extra repayments on your home loan, please do not hesitate to contact us on 9429 9775.

The median growth return for superannuation funds for the 2010 calendar year was 4.7% according to rating firm Chant West. When assessing the growth performance of your super fund, annual return figures are important however you should also take in to account fees and charges. The tax effectiveness of your superannuation structure is also a consideration.

If you would like to discuss the effectiveness of your superannuation fund, please do not hesitate to contact Nigel nigel@courtfs.com.au or 9429 9775.

The CFS footy tipping competition is on again. It’s free to join and has great end of season cash prizes for the top 10 tippers including $1000 for 1st. To join simply email daniel@courtfs.com.au

Please keep us up to date with any changes to your contact details and of course, please do not hesitate to call us on 9429 9775 if you have a questions about your home loan, insurances and or investments.