There’s been a big jump in workers heading back to CBD offices, in a further sign the economy is returning to normal. According to the Property Council of Australia’s latest monthly office occupancy survey, which measures occupancy rates in CBD offices, all the major capital cities made gains between February and May: Sydney = occupancy…
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Employees on the national minimum wage will receive a 5.2% pay increase from July 1, following a decision by the Fair Work Commission’s expert review panel. The new national minimum wage will be $21.38 per hour or $812.60 per week. Several employer bodies proposed an increase of between 2.5% and 3%; the Australian Council of…
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If you’ve taken out a fixed-rate loan in the past three years, your home loan repayments are likely to significantly increase once your fixed period concludes, according to new analysis. Investment bank Morgan Stanley estimated that the big four banks have originated more than $550 billion of fixed-rate loans since the 2018-19 financial year, and…
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In good news for many first home buyers, regional buyers and single parents, another five lenders will offer the Home Guarantee Scheme to their customers. Starting from 1 July 2022, Credit Union SA, Illawarra Credit Union, IMB Bank, Newcastle Permanent Building Society and Unity Bank will participate in the federal government program. They will join…
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Despite the Reserve Bank’s recent decision to start raising official interest rates and a cooling of the property market in many parts of the country, one of Australia’s most respected economists believes talk of a housing downturn is overblown. Ray White Chief Economist Nerida Conisbee said we should expect a “calming of prices”, not a…
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Australians used a mortgage broker for 69.5% of all new residential home loans in the March 2022 quarter, according to the latest data from Comparator. This represents a record market share for mortgage brokers. By contrast, Australians went directly to a lender for only 30.5% of new mortgages in the same quarter. The latest data…
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The real estate market can often behave in ways that seem counterintuitive, with property prices sometimes rising even in the face of changing economic conditions. This phenomenon can affect both potential buyers and sellers, making it crucial to understand the underlying factors. For homeowners, comprehending market dynamics is essential for managing what is often their…
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It can take homeowners up to a year of debate and thought before taking the plunge and beginning a remodel. One consideration that can increase anxiety is the selection of a builder or contractor to carry out the work. We all hear occasional horror stories, but you can adopt a selection process to minimise risk.…
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The market suddenly has a different vibe and you can feel the caution in the air – and that’s great news if you’re a motivated buyer. When others worry and waiver, opportunities open up for the truly committed buyer. This may feel counterintuitive given the series of mortgage rises we’ve seen, but as an experienced…
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The language used when buying a home can be confusing, creating potential for you to make mistakes simply because you misunderstood what was being asked. As an experienced agent in your area, I believe clear communication is essential for buyers when they’re about to make one of their biggest financial decisions. No matter what pressure…
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