Hot Property: The biggest property headlines from week 18–22 March

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:


RBA delivers March cash rate decision

It’s the first rate decision to be handed down outside of the former “first-Tuesday-of-the-month” announcement pattern.


Buyers determined despite ‘extremely stretched’ affordability: Westpac

Tight incomes, high interest rates, and cost-of-living struggles have not deterred over half of would-be home buyers, the major bank’s survey has found.


Australian mortgage rates increase faster than international peers

Outstanding mortgage rates have increased faster than their global counterparts despite having one of the lower cash rate increase.


Victorian commercial stamp duty reforms introduced to Parliament

Commercial property stamp duty will soon be abolished in Victoria, as new legislation is introduced to bring in a new property tax instead.


Sydney agency to pay $800k-plus in damages after 2019 house fire

A Northern Beaches home that burnt down while an agent was preparing for an open home to sell the property has resulted in the agency being found liable for negligence.


WA builder’s rego renewal axed

A Perth construction company’s registration has been cancelled on financial grounds, leaving 13 projects unfinished.


Melbourne agency facing criminal charges for underquoting

Consumer Affairs Victoria is pursuing court proceedings against a north-eastern agency for alleged underquoting during a recent sale.


Are Darwin’s strong yields set to grow stronger?

Long known as a honeypot for investors after high rental returns, Darwin is set to benefit from a $16 billion infrastructure pipeline.


Tenancy bonds enter the 21st century with new subscription service

The service, aptly titled Bondable, aims to shake up Australia’s rental industry and consumer experience.


First National appoints new CEO

The national network has named a new leader to spearhead their “ambitious” growth aspirations.


[RELATED: Hot Property: The biggest property headlines from week 11-15 March]