The weekly round-up of the biggest news stories from across Momentum Media’s property brands from the week ending 13 February.
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.
FHBs return in force as lending surges
First‑time buyers made a sharp comeback in late 2025, yet economists have warned that larger loans could put fresh pressures on borrowers.
Older Australians under pressure as mortgages collide with rising costs
New research has revealed that an alarming number of older Australians are entering retirement with mortgage debt and mounting bills.
Is a partner the new must-have property deposit?
The growing cost of housing is dashing the hopes of single home buyers, with 70 per cent of single Millennials believing home ownership is a mathematical impossibility without a partner.
Over 2k borrowers apply for Help to Buy
The federal government’s new shared equity home ownership scheme has approved 2,356 applications since launching in December.
Investors descend on retail, office, and living sectors amid second annual rise
Beyond retail assets, investors are increasingly opting to invest in office and residential sectors as commercial real estate has seen its second consecutive annual increase in recent years.
REA unlocks personalised property searches with ChatGPT app
As more and more Aussies use AI during their property journey, REA has developed its first ChatGPT app in a bid to help buyers find their next homes through personalised experiences.
FOMO driving reckless property purchases, expert warns
A Queensland property expert has warned that a “fear of missing out” in Australia’s heated real estate market is leading buyers to skip building, pest, and finance clauses, likening the risk to gambling.
$50bn market: Investors find new opportunities in office and living sectors
Following consecutive years of growth in commercial real estate, investors looking to diversify can consider shifting their focus from retail to office and living sectors.
[Related: Hot Property: The biggest property headlines from the week 2–6 February]
