The weekly round-up of the biggest news stories from across Momentum Media’s property brands from the week ending 3 October.
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:
Government launches one-stop website for first home buyers
A new website bringing together information on the government’s three main home buying programs has been launched, but brokers are conspicuously missing from it.
Brokers braced for action as expanded Home Guarantee Scheme launches
The broking industry is bracing for a bumper few months as the expanded Home Guarantee Scheme starts today, accelerating home buyer demand.
Spring selling season sees housing values surge
Supply-side issues and increased borrowing capacity have led to the strongest monthly increase in national dwelling values seen since October 2023.
Banks adjust rate trajectory following RBA decision
Another major bank has pushed back its timings for the next cash rate reduction, after the Reserve Bank held the official cash rate for September–October.
Millennials lead the mortgage repayment slash
Borrowers’ behaviour across age groups varied after the August rate cut, with some cohorts more likely to reduce their direct debit repayments, according to one of the big four banks.
Apartment sales spike amid soaring house prices
Apartments now account for nearly half of sales nationwide, driven by lifestyle trends and soaring house prices, with demand set to rise further as first home buyers enter the market.
Market frenzy: Home prices jump as first-time buyers compete with investors
With property values soaring, demand surging, and yields tightening ahead of the First Home Buyer Scheme, can investors still profit – and can first-time buyers get a foothold?
Heatwaves push investors to review their priorities
With hotter summers and more intense heatwaves, investors should consider equipping their properties with renewable energy systems and updated amenities to attract tenants and protect long-term value.
[Related: Hot Property: The biggest property headlines from the week 22–26 September]
