Mary Holm: Invest or pay off the mortgage?

Is paying off your mortgage the best approach while mortgage rates are so low? Photo / 123RF

As we say goodbye to 2020 and welcome in 2021, it's a good time to catch up on the very best of the Herald columnists we enjoyed reading over the last 12 months. From politics to sport, from business to entertainment and lifestyle, these are the voices and views our audience loved the most. Today it's the top three from Mary Holm.

Mortgage versus investments

It seems to be the perceived wisdom to pay off your mortgage before saving your money elsewhere.

But now that mortgage rates are so low, wouldn't it be better to put your money into, say, a share fund, rather than pay down a 3 per cent mortgage, on the assumption that returns from a share fund will beat 3 per cent, even after fees and tax?

Mary Holm offers her guidance on the mortgage versus investment battle.

Pay off the mortgage or invest? Photo / 123RF

Don't let the family trust create a family feud

Will law changes force you to tell family members what they will inherit?

Mary Holm looks at the new trust laws coming in next year and what that could mean for you.

Conversations about money can be challenging, but that's better than leaving the children to fight it out when you're dead. Photo / Getty Images

Tough times raise questions about your money and bank deposits

Is it better to stick with one bank, or spread your money around?

Mary Holm looks at the best options for your money.

Is it better to stick with one bank, or spread your money around? Photo / Getty Images