The weekly round-up of the biggest news stories from across Momentum Media’s property brands from the week ending 2 May.
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 property stories of the week:
Record-high house prices raise affordability fears
Home prices have reached a new peak and could climb further as fears persist that political parties are not doing enough to address housing affordability fears.
Refinancing rebounds after rate cut spurs mortgage competition
Refinancing volumes rose by more than 12 per cent in the latest quarter, driven by renewed competition for mortgages.
February rate cut prompts uptick in property settlements
Improved buyer sentiment from the Reserve Bank of Australia’s last cash rate cut led to an increase in mortgage refinancing and residential property settlement over the March quarter, according to the latest industry research.
How could a drop in home values impact Australia’s property market?
With the upcoming federal election fast approaching, an industry expert has discussed whether the major parties’ pledges could lead to a decline in home values and result in higher levels of negative equity.
Greens confirm pledge to force big banks to slash mortgage rates
As campaigning enters its final few days, the Green Party has reiterated its vow to cap bank profits and lower mortgage rates.
Housing market defies election jitters with price rises
While improved sentiment from the February rate cut saw a third consecutive month of national dwelling value growth in April, the rate of growth is expected to soften over the coming months.
Property still a safe bet for investors
Despite mounting policy pressures, real estate remains a safe and attractive investment for Australians.
May rate cut ‘near certainty’ as inflation hits RBA target
Trimmed mean inflation has fallen within the RBA’s target band of 2–3 per cent for the first time in more than three years, raising hopes for an interest rate drop in May.
[Related: Hot Property: The biggest property headlines from the week 7–11 April]
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