Lower interest rates have sparked record-breaking levels of participation by first-time buyers, who are now responsible for 27% of all residential property deals, according to a new report by Cotality and Westpac NZ. The dramatic 0.5% reduction in the Official Cash Rate (OCR) by the Reserve Bank of New Zealand in October has tempted many…
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The New Zealand property market has seen consistent value gains across the country as the nation welcomed another 0.25% reduction in the Official Cash Rate (OCR) to revitalise the economy and reduce unemployment from 5.3%. The OCR now stands at 2.25%, and it’s amazing to think the rate is less than half the 5.5% level…
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The first predictions for the 2026 Australian property market are already making headlines as buyers and sellers alike ask themselves how high can prices go. The property portal Domain has been one of the first out of the blocks with its predictions, forecasting a 6% rise in values across all capital cities next year. Its…
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One-third of all Australian properties now command a $1 million-plus price tag, according to the latest research from Cotality. Its latest data shows the number of so-called “million-dollar suburbs” has risen by an astounding 143% in five years. The city with the most influence on this result is Brisbane, where 38 suburbs have moved into…
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Knowing you’ve put your largest financial asset in the hands of a great real estate agent makes the process of selling your home so much less stressful. Their knowledge and experience will ease any anxiety about market trends, buyer preferences and the price you might expect to achieve. Choosing the right agent requires careful thought…
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There are many decisions to make once you decide to move home: Do you buy or sell first? What type of mortgage do you need to climb the property ladder? And how will you co-ordinate accommodation so you’re not left stranded between properties? And here’s the most important question – how will you achieve a…
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Powered by a revolutionary government policy to support first homebuyers, Australia’s sale prices are now growing faster than at any time in the last two years. The moment the Government released its Home Guarantee Scheme (HGS) – a policy guaranteeing 15% of a 20% deposit so first-time buyers avoid Lenders Mortgage Insurance – the national…
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In an effort to maximise their home’s value, owners will make at least two significant improvements before it goes on the market. One of the most common areas of focus is the bathroom because of its influence on a buyer’s assessment of your home. A full renovation of a bathroom can cost tens of thousands…
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With the Australian property market currently operating at “full-steam”, more political discussion has focused on helping first-time buyers than we’ve heard for a very long time. The successful remake of the Federal Government’s Home Guarantee Scheme (HGS) has in a matter of a few weeks attracted a sharp increase in loan applications and first homebuyer…
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An appraisal of your current home’s value is an essential first step for owners looking to sell and move up the property ladder or downsize. A value estimate grounded in reality rather than wishful thinking will ensure you don’t make any terrible or expensive mistakes when you consider your next property purchase. The best appraisal…
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