Hot Property: The biggest property headlines from the week 29 March to 2 April

To compile this list, not only do we consider the week’s most-read stories and the news that matters to you, but we curate it to include stories from our sister brands that also have an impact on the Australian property landscape.

REA Group to acquire Mortgage Choice

The multinational property services group has announced a proposal to acquire 100 per cent of Mortgage Choice for $244 million by way of a scheme of arrangement.

ACCC clears the way for NAB’s 86 400 acquisition

The competition watchdog has said that it will not oppose the proposed acquisition of neobank 86 400 by National Australia Bank Ltd. In January of this year, major bank NAB announced that it would increase its 18 per cent shareholding in 86 400 Holdings Ltd to 100 per cent for a total consideration of around $220 million.

RLO repeal will make borrowers more responsible: Sukkar

The Assistant Treasurer has acknowledged that borrowers currently bear “limited responsibility” for providing incorrect information on loans, highlighting the need to change lending laws.

Credit union expands broker channel reach

The credit union has launched in Victoria’s broker market, expanding its push into the state with 600 brokers from PLAN.

COO role adds weight to network’s push for dominance

Harcourts Australia has revealed a new executive appointment, nabbing a consultant and former real estate executive to take on the newly created role of chief operations officer.

Why this business dropped boutique for a big brand

Two real estate directors recently ditched a decision to go boutique and instead are choosing to rebrand to First National Real Estate Engage Eastlakes. 

Why Perth is top of mind for property investors

Perth has emerged as a fan favourite among property investors, with the timing of the market and the forecasted price growth said to be behind the city’s newfound fame.

Queensland property market shines in new report

The latest Queensland Market Monitor from the Real Estate Institute of Queensland reveals that almost every region saw property prices rise by more than 6 per cent over the December 2020 quarter.

Raine & Horne rewards staff with $250k of ‘the good stuff’

A new internal incentive scheme aims to recognise more members of Raine & Horne’s network than ever before – in a move worth around a quarter of a million dollars to agents, property managers and administrative staff.

10 of Australia’s most affordable regions

With housing affordability an ever-increasing issue within metro capital cities, more buyers are seeking alternative options in the regional markets. Here are some of the standouts.

[Related: Hot Property: The biggest property headlines from the week 22-26 March]