28% of buyers now first-timers – and they do things their way

Constant discussion about how property has become unaffordable for Millennials and Gen Z  has prompted regular market research to uncover the attitudes and aspirations of younger buyers. These reports offer fascinating insights, especially if you’re about to downsize and sell your family home because these two generations are your most likely buyers. First-time buyers currently…
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Listings dip as equity-rich sellers monitor mortgage trends

Leading real estate marketplace Zillow has reported a 7.3% fall in the number of its listings for August as sellers take stock in the aftermath of the summer selling season. Inventory remains 15% above its level 12 months ago, providing buyers with plenty of choice and a healthy negotiating position.  Currently, 20% of all sales…
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Ten tips to get your home ready for a winter sale

If you want to sell your home quickly and efficiently, there’s no better time than winter. Even though days are starting to turn chilly, there are a number of factors in your favor. There will be fewer new properties coming onto the market to compete with you. Indeed, Zillow has just released data saying month-over-month…
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Five top selling tips as Westpac predicts 5.4% growth next year

Housing prices are predicted to rise by more than 5% next year in a landmark real estate report issued by Westpac NZ. Its chief economist Kelly Eckhold says in his latest report that prices should remain stable for the rest of this year and are unlikely to rise sharply in the spring selling season. “Investor…
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Eight buying strategies as latest price curve flattens

Increasing affordability is the main positive to be taken from the latest data on New Zealand’s real estate market. For the three months to the end of August, New Zealand’s average price was $957,000 – the same level of two years ago. Amid economic concerns, buyers with the courage to strike out now have a…
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Negative gearing: Why is it so controversial?

Navigating the debate on negative gearing is crucial for any Australian property investor.  This guide will help you understand the core arguments that are for and against the policy, as well as explaining how this policy may fit into your investment strategy. Negative gearing is a tax policy that allows property investors to minimise their…
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Call for tax relief to encourage downsizing

A major challenge for the real estate market has been persuading empty nesters to sell the family home and downsize. Stamp duty on the purchase of a new home – a tax that can get into six-figure territory – is the key reason why older Australians are refusing to sell their family homes. In the…
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Colour conundrum: The best approach when selling your home

When preparing your house for sale, the most common advice you’re likely to hear is to repaint both the interior and exterior of the property. Sales agents will be especially keen for you to give the property a facelift so prospective buyers feel the property has been well maintained and feels fresh and inviting. Painting…
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5% deposit scheme for first-time buyers goes live

The big change first-time buyers were promised at the last Federal election has arrived.  From the start of this month, young buyers can access a home loan with a 5% deposit and avoid punitive mortgage insurance that can cost tens of thousands of dollars. Currently, Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI) is compulsory if a buyer has…
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How lenders really assess your mortgage application

For anyone buying a property, it’s easy to assume that so long as you meet the basic criteria to secure a mortgage, your lender will be only too happy to take your money. While that is largely correct, there are some internal rules that banks apply, especially to those buying into apartment buildings, that can…
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