Surely one of Australia’s most successful investors has snuck a holiday home (or even two) into his portfolio at some stage? It had never really crossed my mind, so I had never had the chance to ask Michael Yardney this question. It was only recently, when we were sitting with a few of our clients…
The 1970s may have been known for flamboyant clothing, but their architecture was somewhat less exciting. In fact, property from that time period could almost be described as quite “bland” – at least from the outside. Inside, of course, was a different story with the wallpaper often featuring paisley motifs and the floors festooned with…
When we talk about Australia’s property market, most people look inward — inflation data, RBA decisions, consumer sentiment. But increasingly, what happens overseas, particularly in the US and China, is influencing what happens here at home. According to Ray White Chief Economist Nerida Conisbee, there are three potential paths the Australian housing market could take…
In a year marked by economic upheavals and cost of living pressures, Australian households have not just survived; they’ve thrived. Believe it or not, the average wealth per household in Australia has now surpassed the $1.5 million mark. Yes, you read that right—$1.5 million! But let’s unpack what’s really going on here and why it…
A few years ago, I was asked what I would do if I was the Federal Housing Minister. This is what I outlined. So, what would I do if I was the Federal Housing Minister? At present over 60% of our domestic credit goes to housing-related activities and just over 30% goes to business. A…
Beware, property investors! If you’re considering investing in Melbourne’s enticing property market, it is a double-edged sword, filled with potential success but also hidden pitfalls and deceptive lures. Now that most commentators believe there is considerable upside in the languishing Melbourne market, interstate investors are flocking to Melbourne, drawn by visions of lucrative returns and…
Even if you’re in a comfortable debt position according to your own personal risk exposure, the only judgment that matters when you apply for a mortgage is that of the banks’ assessment of your serviceability. So here are eight strategies to make sure an invisible serviceability ceiling doesn’t stop you from growing your property portfolio…
If you’re under 35 and considering buying a home, it might be time to rethink that decision. The economic environment and world of finance have shifted in recent years, and so should our perspective on homeownership. But does that mean you should give up on the dream entirely? Not at all! For generations, owning a…
Why are we blaming international students for Australia’s housing crisis? In recent years, as housing affordability has worsened across Australia, international students have been thrust into the spotlight as a scapegoat. It’s an argument that’s tempting in its simplicity: more students mean more demand, which pushes up rents. But the reality? It’s a lot more…
We are living in interesting times, aren’t we? After strong property price growth in our major property markets in 2023 and the first half of 2024, we are now moving to a period of slower capital growth. The current market is creating two types of property buyers: Those who see it as an opportunity to…
