The weekly round-up of the biggest news stories from across Momentum Media’s property brands from the week ending 20 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.
Bullock defends rate hike, insists demand drove call
In a fiery press conference, Reserve Bank governor Michele Bullock spelled out why the Reserve Bank had hiked the cash rate, stressing that entrenched inflation rather than rising petrol prices alone – forced its hand.
RBA hikes cash rate as Middle East conflict bites
The Reserve Bank Monetary Policy Board has moved to raise the cash rate, as it responds to renewed inflationary pressures and a mounting global oil shock.
Deposit schemes turbocharge FHB demand
New research has revealed government deposit schemes are massively luring younger buyers into ownership, while stretching repayments and significantly reshaping mortgage risk.
Rate spectre fuels refinance wave as mortgage demand surges
Fresh data has revealed that borrowers rushed to refinance in February, with the shifting rate outlook driving a sharp push in mortgage demand.
Another week, another hike: What does the cash rate increase mean for the property market?
The RBA’s second rate cut of the year is forecast to slightly slow housing growth, while entry-level demand remains strong and commercial rents are supported by limited supply.
Record profitability as capitals see gains from 90% of house resales
The property market has seen widespread record profitability, with over 90 per cent of house resales in every capital seeing gains for the first time in 15 years, as Brisbane and Perth lead the way.
Capital gains or capital pains? Labor hints at CGT changes
In the lead-up to the May budget, Labor has signalled it may move to support the CGT discount for property investors.
Say goodbye to hidden prices: NSW enforces mandated listing guides
Sellers in NSW will now have to disclose mandated prices or price guides for their listings, as the state government tackles underquoting and increases transparency in the property market.
[Related: Hot Property: The biggest property headlines from the week 9–13 March]
