That is why the Federal Government’s proposed changes to negative gearing, announced as part of the 2026 Federal Budget, have attracted significant attention from investors, homebuyers, and property professionals alike.

While the proposed reforms are still working their way through Parliament, they have already sparked debate about what the future of negative gearing could look like and how the changes may affect Australia’s property market.

Why Is the Government Looking at Negative Gearing?

The Government has stated that the proposed negative gearing reforms are designed to improve housing affordability and encourage investment in newly built homes. By directing more investor activity towards new housing supply, the Government hopes to support housing construction while making it easier for first-home buyers to compete in the established property market.

Housing affordability remains a key issue across Australia, particularly in major cities where demand continues to outpace supply. The proposed negative gearing changes form part of a broader strategy aimed at increasing the availability of housing and supporting future growth.

How Could Negative Gearing Change?

Under the current rules, negative gearing allows property investors to claim a tax deduction when the costs of owning an investment property exceed the rental income it generates. These losses can often be offset against other forms of income, such as wages and salaries.

Under the proposed reforms, negative gearing would continue to apply to newly built residential properties. However, investors purchasing established residential properties after the proposed commencement date may no longer be able to use negatively geared losses to reduce their taxable employment income.

Instead, those losses may only be available to offset future rental income or capital gains from residential property investments.

Importantly, the Government has indicated that existing investment properties are expected to be grandfathered, meaning current owners would generally retain access to the existing negative gearing arrangements.

What About Capital Gains Tax?

Alongside the proposed negative gearing reforms, the Federal Budget also included plans to change the way capital gains tax (CGT) is calculated on investment assets.

Currently, investors who hold an asset for more than 12 months may qualify for a 50% CGT discount when they sell and realise a capital gain. The Government has proposed replacing this discount with an indexed cost-base system, which aims to ensure investors are taxed on real gains rather than gains that may simply reflect inflation over time.

These proposed capital gains tax changes would work alongside the negative gearing reforms as part of the Government’s broader housing and tax policy agenda.

What Could the Negative Gearing Changes Mean for Investors?

For many investors, negative gearing is only one part of a much larger investment strategy. Factors such as rental demand, property growth, cash flow, interest rates, and borrowing capacity often play an equally important role when assessing an investment opportunity.

If the proposed negative gearing changes proceed, future investors may place greater emphasis on newly built properties, where the tax benefits would remain available. Some market commentators believe this could help stimulate housing construction, while others have expressed concerns about potential impacts on rental supply and investor participation.

As with any major policy proposal, the overall market impact will depend on a range of economic and property market conditions over time.

What Should Property Investors Do Now?

At this stage, the proposed negative gearing reforms have not yet become law. The legislation must still complete the parliamentary process, and there is always the possibility that changes could be made before any final implementation.

For investors considering their next move, now may be a good opportunity to review their plans and understand how different scenarios could affect their long-term goals. Whether you are purchasing your first investment property, expanding your portfolio, or reviewing your existing lending structure, it is important to make decisions based on your overall financial position rather than tax considerations alone.

The Bottom Line on Negative Gearing

Negative gearing has been a cornerstone of Australian property investing for decades, which is why any proposed changes naturally attract significant attention. While the Government believes the reforms could help improve housing affordability and encourage new housing supply, there remains ongoing debate about how the changes could affect investors and the broader property market.

For now, the key message is that the proposed negative gearing reforms are still under review and have not yet been implemented. Staying informed and seeking professional advice can help you understand how any future changes may impact your property investment strategy and borrowing options.

As the conversation around negative gearing continues to evolve, investors who focus on long-term planning and informed decision-making will be best placed to navigate whatever changes may lie ahead.

If you’re unsure how the proposed negative gearing changes could affect your current property, future investment plans, or borrowing capacity, it’s a good time to get clarity before any legislation takes effect. Every investor’s situation is different, and having the right advice can make a significant difference to your long-term strategy.

If you’d like to discuss your options or understand how these changes may impact you personally, feel free to contact us at QMP Financial. We’re here to help you navigate your property and lending decisions with confidence.

The post The Truth About Negative Gearing Changes in the 2026 Budget first appeared on Mortgage Brokers Brisbane Gold Coast.

What Is a Pre-Approval

A pre-approval is an indication from a lender that a borrower is eligible to borrow up to a certain amount based on their financial situation. It’s not a guaranteed loan approval, but it’s the closest thing to a green light before a property is selected. Essentially, it tells buyers, “Yes, your finances meet our criteria, and you’re likely to be approved once a suitable property is found.” This reassurance helps clients search for homes confidently within a realistic budget.

How to Qualify for a Pre-Approval

Qualifying for a pre-approval means showing the lender that the borrower is financially stable, responsible, and capable of meeting future repayments. Lenders look for consistent income, manageable debts, genuine savings, and a clean credit history. They also check if living expenses are reasonable and if the borrower can comfortably afford repayments even if interest rates increase. Meeting these criteria gives lenders confidence that the borrower is a strong candidate for a home loan.

Getting the Documents Ready

The pre-approval process begins with gathering the essentials. Lenders need to see identification, payslips, bank statements, tax returns where needed, and a snapshot of living expenses. This is the foundation of the application, and it’s how lenders verify that everything matches their policy requirements. PAYG income is usually assessed using base salary, while overtime, bonuses, or commissions are only counted if they can be proven as regular. Self-employed clients undergo a deeper review, where lenders look at tax returns and financials to check the stability of the business.

Checking Liabilities and Living Expenses

Once income is confirmed, lenders move on to liabilities and expenses. Every credit card, personal loan, car loan, HECS/HELP debt, and even buy-now-pay-later activity must be included. Even an Afterpay balance sitting at zero is still assessed because it counts as an active facility. Lenders also compare declared expenses with benchmarks to make sure the figures are realistic. This step helps them understand how comfortably a borrower can take on a mortgage.

Calculating Borrowing Capacity

With income and expenses verified, lenders calculate borrowing power. They use what’s called an assessment rate—usually the actual interest rate plus around 3%—to make sure the borrower can still afford repayments if rates rise. This buffer forms a big part of the lender’s policy and plays a huge role in determining the maximum loan amount.

Running the Credit Check

Lenders then run a credit check to assess repayment history and financial behaviour. They look for late payments, defaults, or too many enquiries in a short timeframe. A clean credit report supports the application, but even a few issues don’t automatically mean a decline. Lenders simply want to understand the story behind the numbers.

Getting the Pre-Approval

If everything aligns with the lender’s policy, the pre-approval is issued. Some banks provide instant automated approvals for simple applications, while more complex cases go through a manual assessment. Most pre-approvals last between 60 and 90 days and can be refreshed if needed. This gives clients a clear budget range and confidence while they shop for a home.

When the Right Property Is Found

Once a buyer chooses a property, the lender updates the application with the property details, orders a valuation, and checks for any changes in the client’s financial situation. Because most of the heavy lifting has already been done at the pre-approval stage, this part usually moves faster. The valuation must meet lender standards to make sure the property is suitable security for the loan.

Understanding how pre-approval works helps clients feel more prepared and less stressed during their property search. It’s not a guarantee, but it’s a powerful tool that gives clarity, direction, and peace of mind. With most of the assessment already done upfront, buyers can focus on finding the right home—knowing they’re backed by a lender who has already reviewed their financial picture. If they’re ready to take the first step, have questions, or want guidance through the process, they’re always welcome to contact us anytime.

The post Pre-Approval Made Simple: How to Qualify and What Lenders Look For first appeared on Mortgage Brokers Brisbane Gold Coast.

Why the Majority Chose to Lift Rates

In the end, most members supported a 25-basis-point rise, largely because inflation remained too high and demand continued to run above the economy’s capacity. The sharp increase in oil prices wasn’t viewed as just another temporary pinch at the pump—it was feeding into broader inflation expectations. Estimates showed that if oil stayed around US$100 per barrel, petrol alone could push inflation to about 5% by June, noticeably higher than February’s forecast. To the majority, lifting the cash rate now was a strategic step to stop these pressures from becoming entrenched.

They also noted that financial conditions, though tighter than before, weren’t as restrictive as anticipated, while the labour market remained slightly hotter than earlier projections suggested. Even if monetary policy couldn’t prevent an immediate increase in fuel costs, the board felt it could help limit knock-on effects into wages and long-term pricing.

Why Four Members Wanted to Hold

Not everyone agreed that tightening was the right call. Four members leaned toward keeping rates steady, placing greater weight on the risk of slowing the economy more than intended. With household spending coming in weaker than expected late last year, they were wary that consumer activity in the March quarter could soften further. For them, the uncertainty surrounding global developments—especially conflict-driven supply shocks—meant waiting for more information might lead to a more precise policy response.

Some economists echoed this view, noting that the minority simply preferred patience while navigating an unpredictable landscape.

What Major Banks Expect Next

Despite the debate, both sides agreed that more tightening was likely ahead. Analysts across the big banks reviewed the minutes and reached similar conclusions: the March increase is part of a broader path. ANZ highlighted that the next meeting begins with a “clean slate,” while NAB pointed out the board’s readiness to keep pushing back against inflation if oil-driven pressures persist. Westpac has even updated its forecasts, now expecting increases across May, June, and August, which could push the cash rate toward 4.85%.

What This Means for Borrowers

For homeowners and anyone keeping a close eye on their mortgage, the minutes are a reminder of how quickly economic pressures can shift. Global events can influence local interest rates in unexpected ways, and the RBA is working to balance the fight against inflation with the need to support economic stability. Regularly reviewing your loan remains one of the most practical steps to stay prepared in a fast-changing rate environment.

If you’re unsure how these cash rate changes could affect your repayments or want to explore whether your current loan is still competitive, contact us. Our team is here to help you understand your options and stay ahead of the market.

The post A Big Cash Rate Warning: The RBA Isn’t Done Yet first appeared on Mortgage Brokers Brisbane Gold Coast.

Experience and Convenience Remain Key Drivers

More respondents identified a broker’s market knowledge as a leading reason for seeking support, with growing numbers also highlighting how much easier and more efficient the lending process becomes when guided by a professional. While access to a variety of lenders is still important, borrowers are shifting their focus toward the quality of advice and the overall service experience.

Satisfaction and Trust Continue to Strengthen

The research shows that satisfaction with brokers remains exceptionally high, especially around communication and accessibility. Many borrowers felt that their broker acted in their best interests, and reported issues continued to decline. Trust also strengthened, particularly among those who had recently worked with a broker—reinforcing how positive interactions continue to shape industry confidence.

The Importance of Genuine Expertise

Although trust levels are strong, the study highlighted shifting borrower expectations. Concerns around communication, advice quality, and payment clarity have grown slightly, and many Australians are becoming more conscious of choosing a broker with genuine market experience. Despite these emerging pressure points, perceptions around mortgage brokers improved, with fewer borrowers feeling that their interests weren’t prioritised.

Loyalty Holds Strong Despite Rising DIY Options

Even as digital tools and direct-to-lender pathways gain traction, loyalty to brokers remains steady. Most respondents said they would use the same broker again, and referrals continue to be a major source of new clients. Women, in particular, were more likely to choose their broker based on a recommendation from friends or family. Meanwhile, increased interest in government initiatives such as Help to Buy is leading more borrowers to seek clear, personalised guidance.

If you’re planning to enter the market, refinance, or simply want clarity in a fast-changing environment, now is the perfect time to reach out. Contact us today and let our team guide you with the expertise, transparency, and personal support borrowers value most.

The post The Numbers Are In… and Brokers Are Leading the Way first appeared on Mortgage Brokers Brisbane Gold Coast.

Why the RBA Made the Move

Throughout late 2025, inflation proved more stubborn than the central bank had hoped. Quarterly trimmed-mean inflation rose, headline inflation landed at 3.8 per cent, and unemployment stayed lower than expected. These indicators suggested that the economy was still running hotter than ideal, with private spending and capacity pressures putting additional strain on inflation targets.

With these factors in play, the RBA board unanimously agreed that policy needed to shift. Although some of the recent inflation rise was attributed to temporary drivers, decision-makers emphasised that they would not hesitate to act again if necessary.

Impact on Everyday Borrowers

For millions of Australians, the rate hike adds fresh pressure to already tight household budgets. Higher rates mean higher monthly repayments, pushing many home owners to rethink spending, postpone upgrades, or reassess their financial priorities. Even a modest 0.25 per cent rise can create noticeable changes — around $75–$80 more per month for every $500,000 borrowed.

Many lenders expect average variable rates for owner-occupiers to climb close to 5.77 per cent, making home loans starting with a “4” increasingly rare. Borrowers with larger loan balances may feel the impact even more, especially those juggling rising living costs.

What Industry Leaders Are Saying

Industry experts agree that borrowers shouldn’t panic, but they should get proactive. Leaders across the mortgage and finance sector highlight that strategic planning is now more important than ever. Brokers are encouraging clients to assess their preparedness for higher repayments, especially those holding pre-approvals, as borrowing power may be affected immediately.

Market confidence varies among major banks — some expect this to be a one-off rise, while others predict more increases to come. Either way, the shift has sparked renewed interest in refinancing, just as seen after the 2022 rate hike cycle.

Refinancing and Restructuring Opportunities

With more pressure on borrowing capacity and household budgets, many Australians are exploring ways to stay ahead. Refinancing, securing sharper rates, consolidating debt, or simply reviewing loan structures can make a noticeable difference. Even those entering the market through government schemes are being encouraged to reassess strategies, as higher rates can shrink the amount they qualify for.

Industry analysis already shows a rise in refinancing enquiries, and that trend is expected to grow as borrowers attempt to cushion the impact of higher repayments.

In times like this, mortgage brokers play a crucial role. The latest rate hike has created uncertainty, but it also provides an opportunity for borrowers to gain clarity with the right advice. Understanding options, testing different scenarios, and reviewing loan products can ease the pressure and restore confidence.

For anyone feeling unsure about what this cash rate change means for their home loan or borrowing power, now is the perfect time to get support. Contact us today to speak with a trusted mortgage broker who can guide you through your options, explore refinancing opportunities, and help you navigate the changing market with confidence. Reaching out early can make all the difference — especially before any potential future rate changes take effect.

The post Don’t Get Caught Out by the New Cash Rate Increase first appeared on Mortgage Brokers Brisbane Gold Coast.

It was a year marked by resilience, innovation, and adaptation — and borrowers continued to rely on brokers more than ever to navigate constant change. Here’s a look back at the stories that defined the industry in 2025.

New Government, New Housing Initiatives

Following Anthony Albanese’s landslide re-election in May, several major housing and small business policies took centre stage. The government expanded the 5 per cent Deposit Scheme, rolled out the Help to Buy program, and extended the $20,000 instant asset write-off. These updates helped strengthen borrowers confidence at a time when the market was still adjusting to higher living costs.

RBA Cuts Rates for the First Time Since 2020

One of the biggest shifts came in February, when the Reserve Bank delivered its first rate cut in four years, reducing the cash rate to 4.10 per cent. Two additional cuts followed in May and August, easing pressure on households and prompting many homeowners and borrowers to reassess their lending options.

Broker Market Share Hits Historic High

With confidence slowly returning, the broker channel reached record territory. Mortgage brokers were responsible for 77.6 per cent of new loans in the June quarter — the highest on record. Although the share dipped slightly later, the total value of broker-written loans set a new peak, highlighting the continued trust Australians place in broker expertise.

A Reminder of the Importance of Ethical Conduct

The industry also witnessed legal proceedings involving former director Joshua Fuoco, who was permanently banned from financial services and given a suspended sentence for targeting vulnerable clients. His case underscored the sector’s ongoing commitment to protecting consumers and upholding strong professional standards.

Tech Innovation Strengthens Broker Resources

A positive development came with LMG’s acquisition of The Brokers’ Bible, a digital tool used by brokers to access lender policies, scenarios, and AI-powered assistance. The platform will continue to operate independently, ensuring brokers across the industry can benefit from its resources.

Updates to HECS/HELP Assessment Rules

Student loan treatment was a major talking point in 2025 as the Treasurer directed regulators to modernise how HELP debt is assessed. Many welcomed the change, which aimed to make the mortgage process fairer for borrowers with student loans. Still, some questioned how it might affect long-term affordability and lender risk assessment.

NAB Winds Down Advantedge

One announcement that surprised many brokers was NAB’s decision to close its Advantedge brand. While new lending ceased from September, existing clients will transition to NAB-branded products in 2026 with no changes to pricing, fees, or commissions — and with improved digital banking features added during the migration.

ANZ–Suncorp Bank Integration Moves Forward

The long-awaited merger continued progressing, with ANZ confirming that Suncorp Bank will fully transition by June 2027. Leadership changes throughout the year signalled ongoing transformation within the enlarged organisation.

Aussie Becomes Lendi Group’s Lead Brand

Brand alignment was another major theme, with Lendi Group naming Aussie as its primary broking brand. Its Find.Buy.Own model — covering conveyancing, buyer’s agency, and partnerships — positioned Aussie as a more holistic solution for clients.

ASIC Signals Tougher Oversight

Regulation remained a key focus as ASIC reinforced that mortgage broking would be a top priority moving forward. With brokers now responsible for most home loans, the regulator emphasised stronger oversight of best interests duty compliance, complaints handling, and internal audits.

Leadership Shifts in the Broking Sector

Loan Market CEO David McQueen stepped down in October, with executive chairman Sam White stepping into the CEO role. The transition ensured business continuity while McQueen took time to explore new opportunities.

Brokers Face CSLR Levy Contribution

The federal government introduced a special $47.3 million Compensation Scheme of Last Resort levy for 2026. While the broking industry will only contribute 1.4 per cent, many groups argued that brokers were being asked to shoulder costs unrelated to their sector. The government has since signalled broader reform of the scheme.

Mutual Banks Join Forces

Consolidation in the mutual banking sector continued, with Qudos Bank and Bank Australia merging to form a group serving 300,000 customers and managing $18 billion in assets.

CBA Appoints New Third-Party Banking Leader

The Commonwealth Bank also made news with the appointment of Baber Zaka as general manager of third-party banking. His focus will centre on strengthening broker relationships and simplifying processes in the year ahead.

Looking Forward to 2026

Reflecting on 2025, it’s clear that the year brought meaningful change to Australia’s lending landscape. From policy updates and regulatory reforms to record broker activity and major industry transitions, brokers continued to play a crucial role in helping Australians navigate homeownership. As 2026 approaches, the industry remains committed to guiding clients through whatever comes next.

If you’re planning your next financial move in 2026 — whether it’s refinancing, purchasing, or simply reviewing your options — our team is here to help. Contact us anytime for support and tailored guidance.

The post A Big Year for Borrowers: The Moments That Shaped 2025 first appeared on Mortgage Brokers Brisbane Gold Coast.

More Markets Join the Million-Dollar Club

The report found that as of September, 34.1% of all property markets across the country have a median value of at least $1 million — a record high, and a big jump from 30.3% just a year earlier.

What’s even more striking is how fast this shift has occurred. Over the past five years, the number of million-dollar suburbs has grown by 143%, as property values nationwide rose by almost 47% — that’s roughly $270,000 at the median level.

Once concentrated in Sydney’s prestigious Northern Beaches and Eastern Suburbs, seven-figure price tags are now becoming the norm in more diverse regions. Suburbs in Brisbane, Canberra, and even outer-metro areas like Penrith in Sydney and Taylors Lakes in Melbourne have now joined the list.

When “Prestige” Becomes the New Normal

What used to be an exclusive benchmark for high-end areas is now a reality for many average suburbs. Cotality’s economist, Kaytlin Ezzy, highlighted how house prices above $1 million are no longer limited to luxury postcodes — they’re now seen in outer regions where families traditionally sought affordability.

In Sydney, only 15% of suburbs have a median house value under $1 million, mainly in the city’s western and Central Coast areas. Meanwhile, Brisbane and Canberra have both seen their broader housing markets cross the seven-figure threshold for the first time.

Even some unit markets are catching up — 13.5% of unit suburbs nationwide now sit above $1 million.

Affordability Under Pressure

The rise in million-dollar suburbs is good news for homeowners who are seeing strong capital growth — but for new buyers, the story is quite different.

Cotality’s report revealed that a household earning the average income of $106,000 would need to spend more than half of their pre-tax income to service a loan on a $1 million home with a 20% deposit. For those relying on a 5% deposit under the First Home Guarantee scheme, that figure jumps above 60%.

This growing gap has made it harder for first-home buyers to enter the market. Many are needing larger deposits or parental assistance, and some are waiting longer to buy — resulting in the average age of first-home buyers continuing to climb.

What It Means for Homeowners and Buyers

For existing property owners, the rise in home values offers opportunities to leverage equity and expand investment portfolios. As prices climb, more homeowners are choosing to refinance or access equity for property investments, renovations, or debt consolidation.

However, brokers and financial professionals continue to stress the importance of education and planning. Understanding borrowing limits, structuring loans wisely, and staying realistic about property goals are key steps in navigating this competitive market.

With demand still high and supply remaining tight, experts predict that property values will keep rising into 2025. At the current rate of growth, more than 80 new suburbs are expected to join the million-dollar club by the end of the year.

While that may sound daunting for those still saving for a deposit, there are still pathways forward — especially with the right financial strategy and broker guidance.

As property prices continue to climb, expert guidance has never been more important. The team at QMP Financial helps clients explore the right loan options, understand their borrowing power, and create tailored strategies to make the most of current market conditions.

Whether it’s preparing to buy, refinance, or invest, QMP Financial ensures every client is supported with the right advice at every stage of their property journey.

Contact us today to discuss your options and find out how we can help you move confidently in today’s property market.

The post More Aussie Homes Are Hitting $1 Million — Here’s How to Keep Up first appeared on Mortgage Brokers Brisbane Gold Coast.

Refinancing Is on the Rise

The latest Mortgage and Finance Association of Australia (MFAA) survey revealed that 99% of brokers helped clients refinance within the last six months. This is a clear sign that refinancing is no longer out of reach for many borrowers. Almost all clients who refinanced were also able to secure a discount, proving that better deals are on the table.

When you refinance, you can potentially reduce your repayments, unlock equity, or simply move to a loan that better suits your needs. With lenders becoming more flexible, now is a prime opportunity to consider refinancing.

Why More Borrowers Can Refinance Now

So, why is refinancing becoming more accessible? The biggest reason is the shift in economic conditions. Easing inflation and lower interest rates have opened the door for more borrowers to refinance.

At the same time, many homeowners are seeking help for the first time. In fact, 92% of brokers reported working with clients new to refinancing. This shows that more people are recognising the value of professional advice when it comes to navigating the refinance process.

Borrower Confidence Is Growing

Another positive trend is borrower confidence. Brokers observed that clients are starting to feel more optimistic about their finances now that refinance opportunities are available. While nearly half of clients remain “neutral,” more are showing a brighter outlook compared to earlier this year.

This shift highlights the impact of refinancing—by lowering repayments or securing better rates, households gain much-needed breathing room, which boosts financial confidence.

Brokers Are Helping Beyond Refinancing

While the chance to refinance has improved, challenges like cost-of-living pressures and job security concerns remain. That’s why 80% of brokers are now also supporting clients with hardship options.

Brokers aren’t just there to help you refinance; they’re also a trusted guide if financial stress arises. Whether you’re aiming to refinance to a more affordable loan or explore hardship support, having a broker makes the process easier.

Job Security and Housing Supply Concerns

Even though refinancing is now within reach for many, some borrowers remain cautious. Concerns about job security jumped from 4.8% earlier this year to 18.3%, while housing supply shortages continue to add pressure.

This means that while refinance opportunities are improving, broader issues like employment and housing availability still shape how confident borrowers feel about their future.

The key message is this: if you’ve been unable to refinance before, now may be the right time to take another look. With more lenders open to applications and brokers guiding clients through the refinance process, breaking free from mortgage prison is finally possible.

Contact us today to explore how we can help you refinance your home loan and secure a deal that works better for you.

The post Refinance and Break Free: How Borrowers Are Escaping Mortgage Prison first appeared on Mortgage Brokers Brisbane Gold Coast.

Recent data shows that this period of rate cuts is creating both opportunity and affordability pressure for Australians hoping to buy or upgrade homes. As the cost of borrowing drops, competition in the housing market is heating up — and so are the prices.

The House Price Climb Continues

All eight capital cities recorded house price increases in the June quarter, a milestone not seen in years. Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide, and Perth reached record highs, while Melbourne and Hobart posted their strongest results in some time.

Sydney’s median house price, for example, rose 2.6% to a new record of $1.7 million. Melbourne followed with a 2.3% increase, reaching $1.06 million. Much of this price growth is being driven by increased borrowing capacity — a direct effect of the recent rate cuts.

The influence of rate cuts extends beyond houses. Apartment prices have also surged, with affordability concerns pushing more buyers toward units. Domain’s latest data showed that national unit prices climbed to a new high of $689,588 — the strongest quarterly growth in two years. Cities like Brisbane and Adelaide are seeing extended runs of unit price growth, while Darwin and Canberra led the nation in recent quarterly gains.

However, the biggest issue remains supply. Nicola Powell, Chief of Research at Domain, warned that price pressures will continue unless there is a substantial increase in housing stock — regardless of how many rate cuts are implemented.

Upsizers Take Advantage of Rate Cuts

Despite challenges, mortgage brokers are reporting a noticeable shift. Rate cuts are giving many homebuyers the confidence — and borrowing capacity — to consider upsizing. Families who may have previously been priced out of larger homes are now actively exploring their options.

Brett Sutton, a broker at Two Red Shoes, noted an increase in demand from young families wanting more space. Many had initially bought apartments or townhouses and are now using the opportunity created by the rate cuts to move into bigger homes. He described the current market as a “window of opportunity” that could close within the next six months as prices catch up.

Even amid global economic uncertainty, the current cycle of rate cuts appears to be restoring buyer confidence. While many remain cautious, the Reserve Bank’s direction is giving people the reassurance they need to act.

Still, affordability challenges linger in high-cost cities like Sydney. Sutton pointed out that growth in Sydney is limited not by interest in buying but by how much people can actually borrow. In his view, any further price movement will likely depend on whether additional rate cuts increase borrowing power even more.

A Market in Motion

Whether it’s first-home buyers, growing families, or investors, rate cuts are reshaping the Australian property landscape in real time. They’re making borrowing easier but also driving prices higher — creating both opportunity and urgency.

Thinking of making a move? Now could be the time to explore your options while rates are low. Reach out today for a personalised review of your borrowing capacity and take the next step toward your property goals.

The post Can Rate Cuts Really Make Buying a Home Easier? first appeared on Mortgage Brokers Brisbane Gold Coast.

New data from CoreLogic has unveiled a notable shift in the Australian housing market, with home values declining by 0.1% in December 2024. This marks the first drop in nearly two years, signaling potential changes ahead for homeowners and buyers alike.

The CoreLogic Hedonic Home Value Index (HVI), which tracks residential property values using recent sales and property attributes, attributes this decline to several factors, including rising interest rates, cost-of-living challenges, and reduced borrowing capacities. Despite this slight year-end dip, Australian home values still grew by 4.9% overall in 2024, adding approximately $38,000 to the median home value.

A Year of Contrasts in Growth

The year 2024 showcased a tale of two halves for the housing market. During the first six months, home values surged by 4.1%, driven by strong demand and market confidence. However, this momentum slowed significantly in the latter half of the year, with growth tapering to just 0.7%. Moreover, the slowdown became more pronounced towards the year’s end, as the index plateaued in November and recorded a slight drop in December. By the close of the year, the median value of Australian residential property stood at $814,837.

Affordable Markets Outshine Premium Segments

Interestingly, affordable housing markets proved to be more resilient in 2024. For instance, properties in the lower quartile—often more accessible for first-time buyers—saw a remarkable 9.8% increase in value over the year. In contrast, the upper quartile experienced modest growth of just 1.5%, highlighting the impact of economic pressures on premium markets.

Capital Cities vs. Regional Areas

When breaking down performance by region, combined capital city markets saw a 4.5% rise in home values throughout the year. On the other hand, regional markets outperformed their urban counterparts, achieving a 6.0% increase. This trend underscores the growing appeal of regional living, likely fueled by affordability, lifestyle changes, and remote work flexibility.

What Does This Mean for 2025?

The December dip raises questions about what the future holds for the Australian housing market. With interest rates and economic conditions continuing to influence borrowing capacity, the market may face additional challenges. Nevertheless, the resilience of affordable markets and regional areas suggests opportunities for buyers and investors willing to adapt to changing conditions.

As the market navigates these shifts, staying informed about trends and opportunities will be essential for anyone looking to buy, sell, or invest in the year ahead.

If you have questions about the housing market or need advice on your property journey, contact us today. Our team is here to help you navigate the opportunities and challenges in 2025.

The post Australian Home Values: First Dip in Two Years first appeared on Mortgage Brokers Brisbane Gold Coast.