Hot Property: The biggest property headlines from the week 22-26 February

BOQ to acquire ME Bank for over $1bn

Bank of Queensland Ltd has entered into an agreement to acquire 100 per cent of Members Equity Bank Ltd for $1.325 billion.

86 400 confirms broker commitment

The neobank has confirmed that the broker channel will play a key role for UBank under the proposed merger, adding that broker growth has helped it near $400 million in funding.

ACCC to ‘follow through’ on home loan inquiry

The competition watchdog is set to make good on its recommendations for improving the mortgage process, and will also be announcing enforcement outcomes in the coming months.

Real estate group declares first dividend in 4 years

An ASX-listed real estate group has revealed a $9-million turnaround in its net profit after tax, as it unveils its FY21 first-half results to market.

Breaking up with Facebook: Real estate soldiers on

As the widespread impact of the Facebook ban on news becomes clearer, what’s also becoming evident is the ability of agents and real estate industry players to pivot away from the social media platform.

Since then, Facebook has backflipped on its decision to ban news, after coming to an agreement with the Australian government.

The unexpected costs that come with starting your own agency

Many new real estate principals underestimate the financial and emotional costs associated with kicking off a brand-new business, according to a number of industry professionals.

What’s driving the recent rise in micro-branding?

A boutique agency’s CEO has reflected on the recent rise in micro-branding, concerned that the business proposition may not be the be-all and end-all for agents it is often touted to be.

Top 10 inland rural towns to invest in

While it’s become apparent that regional housing markets have stolen the spotlight, having outpaced their capital city counterparts in 2020, new research has shown that inland rural towns have also sprouted in popularity.

5 tips to unearth the next property hotspots

A property expert has bullishly claimed that property hotspots are a “complete myth” that almost guarantees buyers will pay top dollar, and has instead urged buyers to seek out the “warm spots”.

4 key challenges for the property market in 2021

With financial assistance and government stimulus easing, can the property market remain afloat in 2021?

Regional NSW leads regional house race

With demand for regional housing persisting, several NSW towns have emerged as the winners of the regional relocation trend.

[Related: Hot Property: The biggest property headlines from the week 15-19 February]