Hot Property: The biggest property headlines from week 8–12 January

To compile this list, not only do we consider the week’s most read stories and the news that matter most to you, but we also curate it to include stories from our sister brands that also have an impact on the Australian property landscape.

Here are the biggest stories of the week:

53% of home buyers willing to take on higher mortgage

Surprising new research has found that one in two Australians would choose to take on a steeper interest rate if it meant owning their home more quickly.

Building approvals remain low in November

Despite a microscopic rise in building activity in November, an economist has warned it could take “until the back half of the decade” to see a meaningful improvement.

Call to lift stamp duty concession thresholds by $250k in Qld

The “lazy tax” needs an update in the Sunshine State, according to a prominent real estate chief executive.

Council rate increases to be capped in Victoria

The state government is looking to reduce pressures on household budgets over the coming two years.

In a critical year for housing, will developers be the linchpin?

Australians know that home building must ramp up over the next 12 months. For that to happen, the participation of developers is key.

Have property underquoters finally met their match?

A real estate agent and tech whiz have joined forces to combat price secrecy and increase market transparency.

Bendigo Bank pulls back on Elders and Homesafe investments

In a significant shift in its investment strategy, the non-major bank has ended its relationship with Elders and divested its shareholding in Homesafe Solutions.

Construction levels may not normalise until 2030

Despite a microscopic rise in building activity in November, an economist warns it could take “until the back half of the decade” to see a meaningful improvement.

[RELATED: Hot Property: The biggest property headlines from week 18-22 December]