News that electricity bills will rise on July 1 will concern many homeowners already challenged by servicing their mortgages. The Australian Energy Regulator (AER) has released its price caps for NSW (+23.7%), SE Queensland (+19.8%) and South Australia (+21.8%). Victoria’s Essential Services Commission (ESC) has also proposed a 30% increase, which would hike an average…
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Multi-generational living arrangements are gaining popularity as families seek innovative solutions to address changing social and economic dynamics. This trend reflects a desire to maximize the value of real estate assets while accommodating the needs of extended family members. The concept of multi-generational homes is both visionary and practical, often addressing the challenges faced by…
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When considering whether to sell your home or buy a property, understanding the trends and factors that influence property prices is crucial. While local market conditions are the most relevant for individual transactions, broader economic and social trends can set the tone for the overall real estate market. This comprehensive overview aims to shed light…
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Passage of comprehensive renter rights legislation has significantly altered the landscape of the rental housing market. This new law, aimed at promoting “safe, quality, accessible, and affordable housing,” has introduced a range of protections for tenants while placing new responsibilities on landlords and property managers. The legislation, which has been the subject of intense debate,…
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Real estate investment often offers diverse opportunities across different market conditions. Property values can demonstrate resilience during various economic scenarios, while rental markets may show strength throughout different phases of economic cycles. Industry analysts often provide forecasts for property value trends. These predictions can vary widely across different regions, highlighting the importance of considering location-specific…
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The tragic Auckland floods, Cyclone Gabrielle, and the recent surge in construction costs have thrown a harsh spotlight on the need for home insurance. Being underinsured can leave deep financial scars. More than 20,000 claims related to the Auckland floods have been made, and more are expected. It’s New Zealand’s largest climate-related insurance event, according…
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There’s a light at the end of the tunnel, or at least the first indication of one, in the latest January house price data. Tapering values across New Zealand slowed by 1.2% in the three months to the end of January, according to the OneRoof-Valocity House Value Index. After dipping 4.3% in the September quarter,…
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Our expectations of a modern home are changing, and that’s having a direct impact on how many owners are approaching renovation projects. The work-from-home (WFH) movement, climate change and the pandemic aftermath are the most powerful factors influencing today’s designs. Owners are keen to explore sustainable building materials and want the highest levels of insulation…
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Persistently high inflation is taking its toll on homeowners as the Reserve Bank of Australia continues to push the cash rate higher with the promise of more rises. Some 35% of housing debt is locked into fixed-term loans, according to the RBA’s Financial Stability Review. Two-thirds of those fixed-rate deals expire this year. Being squeezed…
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The rising cost of building materials is slowing, which is great news for owners planning to renovate and buyers looking to find fixer-uppers at a bargain price. The pace of inflation and scarcity of building materials has seen many renovators and property bargain hunters back off for fear they could get caught up in a…
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