Latest Real Estate News

Mastering Seller Expectations, Systems, and Self-Care

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 10:18:36 +0000

Where heritage meets flexibility: A home blueprint for balanced living

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 05:09:55 +0000

In the search for the perfect home, WA buyers from all walks of life, are looking for a place that looks and feels just right.

For many Australians, the ideal property strikes a balance between style and practicality, with a twist of modern elegance – so starting with the right design is key.

One Western Australian builder, Plunkett Homes, has perfected this mix with its ‘Windsor’ design—a two-storey Federation-style design drawing inspiration from classic British Georgian architecture.

With its red-brick highlights, gabled roofs, and timeless facade it’s a home that stands out for its beauty.

But its interior versatility makes it adaptable for all buyers, and its compact footprint has Perth buyers, from couples to growing families, all keen to take a look.

“In a style that is both classic and timeless, our Federation homes capture the iconic federation look and combines it with a modern layout to suit the many lifestyles of today,” shares Aaron Bennett, Plunkett Sales Manager.

‘Windsor’ is a versatile, heritage-inspired home design by Plunkett Homes.

Space to enjoy

Adequate space is essential for a home, but that doesn’t mean you have to own a vast plot of land.

Bennett explains that the ‘Windsor’ design has been carefully planned for tighter modern city blocks, not just expansive greenfield developments.

“It feels bigger than it is,” he says.

“Plunkett Homes have traditionally built in Perth’s inner suburbs, so the size suits subdivided blocks.” 

The first floor features an open-plan kitchen and family area created with easy living in mind.

“The kitchen is elegant, with detailed cabinetry and quality appliances,” Bennett notes. 

“A generous scullery and walk-in pantry are tucked behind the kitchen for additional storage.

“The kitchen and scullery loop around the alfresco, allowing seamless indoor-outdoor flow, ideal for entertaining.”

Bennett notes that premium appliances level up the kitchen and that the central hub design allows you to cook and clean while keeping an eye on the kids or chatting with guests at dinner parties in the main living area.

Meanwhile, the bedrooms and a home theatre upstairs provide a private retreat or even kid-friendly areas or a quieter place for teens to game or study.

Storage and functionality have also been front of mind according to Bennett.

The laundry features pull-out drawers and bench space for folding washing. 

Bennett points to the spacious area under the federation-style staircase, saying it’s perfect for storage, or a wine cellar if you want to “add a touch of class”.

The ‘Windsor’ is designed for practicality and style with a large, open-plan ground floor.

Effortless luxury 

Regardless of your lifestyle choices, everybody desires luxury, so the ‘Windsor’ embraces elegance at every turn.

Inspired by older estate-style homes it features a sumptuous main bedroom suite and walk-through robe creating a private sanctuary instead of just an average bedroom.

Stef Yujnovich from Plunkett Homes adds that similar thoughtful elements have been sprinkled throughout the design to boost the elegance factor.

“The staircase needed to be luxurious, which was challenging beside a wall,” she says. 

“But we added beautiful timber flooring and an open balustrade.

“The entry hallway is spacious, filled with ambient light, and features arches that set the tone for the home.

“The classic colour palette, with white tones and navy accents powerfully complements the design,” she adds.

“We have utilised a lot of white tones and introduced navy to pay homage to the federation style of the home.

“Some bold patterns have been utilised in the laundry, bathroom and powder to invite a sense of fun whilst keeping the palette classy and flowing throughout the home.”

Yujnovich says that the home will “appeal to the wider audience” given its blend of practicality and beauty.

“Even a professional couple would suit this home which is a very generous size without being so large that it discounts smaller families and couples.”

She adds that the upstairs bedrooms can also be easily utilised for flexible spaces, for couples, offering the options of an office, gym, or hobby space.

From bedrooms to studies, the upstairs spaces in the ‘Windsor’ design can be adapted to suit a range of lifestyles.

Quality in design is quality living 

No matter how your household is comprised, quality should always be a priority, Bennet highlights, and it should definitely be on buyers’ minds when choosing a design.

“We’ve been at the forefront of the WA home building industry for more than 120 years.”

“We take great pride in the craftsmanship of each home,” he adds.

However, don’t just take his word for it, Bennett is encouraging buyers to visit the ‘Windsor’ Display Home themselves to see the quality up close, opening from mid-June at 90 Grindleford Drive, Balcatta.

“Over the years, we’ve innovated and adapted to create homes that truly inspire us, focusing on designing residences that stand the test of time and make the dream of home ownership a reality.”

The display home will be open Wednesdays from 2 to 5 PM, and on Saturdays and Sundays from 12 to 5 PM.

The post Where heritage meets flexibility: A home blueprint for balanced living appeared first on realestate.com.au.

2 Steps to Cultivate Happiness

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 02:39:00 +0000

Gallery walls can be a showstopping feature in a home, but they can be very tricky to get right. What's the right spacing? Do smaller pieces belong on the inside or outside of the composition? Is it better to use matching or mismatched frames? With the wr

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 01:53:19 +0000

Gallery walls can be a showstopping feature in a home, but they can be very tricky to get right. What's the right spacing? Do smaller pieces belong on the inside or outside of the composition? Is it better to use matching or mismatched frames? With the wrong styling, a gallery wall can easily add clutter to your home. But, fret not—we asked expert designers to reveal all the secrets to creating a gallery wall that'll turn heads for the right reasons. Head to the link in bio for all of their...

Gallery walls can be a showstopping feature in a home, but they can be very tricky to get right. What's the right spacing? Do smaller pieces belong on the inside or outside of the composition? Is it better to use matching or mismatched frames? With the wr

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 01:53:19 +0000

Gallery walls can be a showstopping feature in a home, but they can be very tricky to get right. What's the right spacing? Do smaller pieces belong on the inside or outside of the composition? Is it better to use matching or mismatched frames? With the wr

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 01:53:18 +0000

Gallery walls can be a showstopping feature in a home, but they can be very tricky to get right. What's the right spacing? Do smaller pieces belong on the inside or outside of the composition? Is it better to use matching or mismatched frames? With the wr

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 01:53:18 +0000

Gallery walls can be a showstopping feature in a home, but they can be very tricky to get right. What's the right spacing? Do smaller pieces belong on the inside or outside of the composition? Is it better to use matching or mismatched frames? With the wr

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 01:53:17 +0000

Gallery walls can be a showstopping feature in a home, but they can be very tricky to get right. What's the right spacing? Do smaller pieces belong on the inside or outside of the composition? Is it better to use matching or mismatched frames? With the wr

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 01:53:17 +0000

Gallery walls can be a showstopping feature in a home, but they can be very tricky to get right. What's the right spacing? Do smaller pieces belong on the inside or outside of the composition? Is it better to use matching or mismatched frames? With the wr

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 01:53:13 +0000

“We call it a small big house,” says designer Katie Hodges. Inspired by the subdued glamour of the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, she embarked on a two-plus year renovation with one longtime creative collaborator: her husband. The result? A sweet family home

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 01:53:13 +0000

“We call it a small big house,” says designer Katie Hodges. Inspired by the subdued glamour of the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, she embarked on a two-plus year renovation with one longtime creative collaborator: her husband. The result? A sweet family home that looks, feels, and lives much larger than its floor plan implies. Get the full tour at the link in bio.

“We call it a small big house,” says designer Katie Hodges. Inspired by the subdued glamour of the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, she embarked on a two-plus year renovation with one longtime creative collaborator: her husband. The result? A sweet family home

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 01:53:12 +0000

“We call it a small big house,” says designer Katie Hodges. Inspired by the subdued glamour of the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, she embarked on a two-plus year renovation with one longtime creative collaborator: her husband. The result? A sweet family home

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 01:53:12 +0000

“We call it a small big house,” says designer Katie Hodges. Inspired by the subdued glamour of the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, she embarked on a two-plus year renovation with one longtime creative collaborator: her husband. The result? A sweet family home

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 01:53:12 +0000

“We call it a small big house,” says designer Katie Hodges. Inspired by the subdued glamour of the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, she embarked on a two-plus year renovation with one longtime creative collaborator: her husband. The result? A sweet family home

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 01:53:11 +0000

Here's a foolproof guide to tell the design styles apart.

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 01:00:51 +0000

Here's a foolproof guide to tell the design styles apart.

Big bank exec reveals Aus hottest housing markets

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 00:59:00 +0000

Despite major surges in prices since the pandemic, Queensland continues to draw strong demand from buyers, including Springfield in Greater Brisbane region. Picture: AAP Image/Dan Peled

A Big Four bank executive reveals the hottest housing markets that buyers are flocking to as the country prepares for imminent back-to-back interest rate cuts.

Denton Pugh, who is the National Australia Bank executive for home lending, explains below where the momentum is currently building and which housing markets are seeing strong growth nationally from a borrowing perspective.

MORE: Hembrow’s $50m limbo in bombshell split

Deserted private island with abandoned resort up for sale

NAB Executive for Home Lending Denton Pugh

MORE: ATO’s dragnet: Millions of side hustles face shock tax bill

Govt pays $3.3m for unliveable derelict house

We might be deep into the winter months, but there’s definite signs of warmth returning to Australia’s property market.

Home values across the country have nudged higher again, rising 0.5 per cent in May and lifting the national index 1.7pc over the first five months of the year. And every capital city recorded growth. A sign that confidence in the market is continuing to grow.

We’re seeing this confidence play out in people like Emily Chalk, a 32-year-old first-home buyer who recently bought a home just outside of Rockhampton, in regional Queensland.

She’d spent six months looking for a place to call home.

A conversation with her banker helped her understand how the Government’s Home Guarantee Scheme could help get her into her first home sooner than she thought. Within weeks she’d bought a home in the town she grew up in.

Geelong is seeing strong buyer growth in terms of loan applications including places like Armstrong Creek which is the area’s biggest housing market.

MORE: Cash-strap student turns $40k to 38 homes

Shock as city’s distressed home listings surge 36pc in one month

Stories like Emily’s are becoming increasingly more common.

It’s not just upgraders or investors sitting on equity returning to the market. Many first-home buyers have been waiting for banks to reduce home lending rates so they can not only borrow more but also have that confidence to take the leap into homeownership.

New NAB home lending data shows lending to first home buyers is up 16pc since February, and up 32pc to home buyers more broadly.

While interest rates are still relatively high, recent rate cuts are helping. These cuts combined with initiatives like the Home Guarantee Scheme, we’re starting to see more people take that first step into homeownership.

Of course, we can’t ignore the bigger picture. While monthly growth is returning, the annual pace of property price increases has slowed. Not great news for investors but good news for those trying to break into the market.

We’re also seeing strong momentum in regional markets; a trend that’s been building since the pandemic years and is not going away.

An aerial view of a housing estate in Toowoomba which is the hottest regional housing market according to NAB. Picture: Toowoomba Regional Council.

10 hottest regional markets so far in 2025:

1. Toowoomba – QLD

2. Burnett – QLD

3. Springfield – Redbank – QLD

4. Geelong – VIC

5. Sunshine Coast Hinterland – QLD

6. Mandurah – WA

7. Loganlea – QLD

8. Ballarat – VIC

9. Maryborough – QLD

10 Mackay – QLD

In fact, Queensland regional hotspots dominated our list of the five hottest regional markets so far in 2025. Toowoomba, Burnett, Springfield-Redbank, and the Sunshine Coast Hinterland all ranked high for home loan activity. Geelong in Victoria was the only non-Queensland regional hotspot to break into the top five.

It may be the weather, or the lifestyle, but regional markets offer more than just charm and appealing work life balance. They offer affordability and the potential for long-term growth. For buyers like Emily, the appeal of staying close to family, and finding space for a young family was strong.

Ballarat is also in the national top 10. Picture: Chris Groenhout

“I already know most of my neighbours, I definitely didn’t have that when I was living in Brisbane,” first-home buyer, Emily Chalk.

This continued momentum is promising, but it also highlights one of the biggest challenges still facing the market – we need more homes.

Lower rates are helping on the demand side, but affordability and supply remain big hurdles.

Addressing those issues will take time, commitment, and smart policy. Particularly when it comes to getting new housing built in the places people want to live.

The winter months are usually quieter for the housing market, however, with most economists expecting further interest rate cuts this year, winter activity is expected to be a little higher than usual, continuing to build for the busier spring period.

MORE REAL ESTATE NEWS

The post Big bank exec reveals Aus hottest housing markets appeared first on realestate.com.au.

Poo piles galore: TikTok star uncovers backyard horror

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 00:58:00 +0000

A UK home has been blasted on social media for having the most dog muck one TikTok star has ever seen.

The Housing Horrors account – which has 166,000 followers – recently highlighted the £130,000 (AU$273,000) terraced bungalow in Sutherland Street, Seaham, after he was left stunned by the property’s listing images.

While the home seemed innocent enough from the outside – and even the inside – the backyard was something different all together.

Here, the listing agent showed a courtyard garden covered in dozens of piles of dog poo, as well as a small dog.

While the listing images were quickly removed online, piles of poo are still visible via the kitchen window which overlooks the rear garden.

“What the bloody hell are they thinking?,” the man behind Housing Horrors states.

“I don’t know what is worse – the owners leaving all of this dog poo out there like this, or the agent thinking it’s a great idea to upload this photo.

“This is going to put off any prospective buyers. Imagine looking through a house… buying your first house and seeing that.

“I’ve never seen so much dog poo in my entire life!”

MORE NEWS

Neighbour row erupts as residents erect ‘Berlin Wall”

World’s most stubborn neighbour defies developers

6m “monstrosity” has neighbours seething

The Seaham home’s backyard is covered in poo, according to listing images.

The poo covered yard can even be seen fro the kitchen window.

The front of the home look relatively tidy.

The influencer goes on to claim: “This is genuinely one of the worst properties I have ever seen in my life”, before looking through other pictures of the property.

The video, which has amassed over 1.1m views on TikTok, has attracted plenty of outrage from viewers.

“If I don’t clean up after my dog for 3 days my garden stinks, I can’t imagine this!,” one follower commented.

Another said: “I’m worried about the dog somebody call RSPCA”.

A third commented: Here’s me having a panic attack because In my estate agent photos my tea towel wasn’t folded correctly on my oven handle ! that poor baby dog though living in that breaks my heart.”

The post Poo piles galore: TikTok star uncovers backyard horror appeared first on realestate.com.au.

Power shift: Renters afraid to speak up as landlords hold the cards

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 00:24:52 +0000

A new survey shows almost seven in 10 renters worry about asking for repairs in case they face a rent increase, reflecting the shifting power dynamic between landlords and tenants in Australia.

Australia’s rental market typically favours landlords, leaving many tenants fearful of asserting their rights amid rising rents and limited housing options.

A new survey released this week by the Australian Council of Social Service (ACOSS) and other groups found 68% of renters expressed concerns about requesting repairs that may result in paying higher rent.

The study, which surveyed 1,019 people who rent in the private sector across Australia, found half of the renters surveyed lived in homes that needed repairs, with one in 10 needing urgent repairs.

ACOSS chief executive Dr Cassandra Goldie said there were serious failings in Australia’s housing market.

“It is completely unacceptable that people in the private rental market are nervous about asking for essential repairs because they fear a rent increase or eviction notice,” Dr Goldie said.

“Everyone deserves to be able to live in secure homes without the constant fear of losing their home.”

Almost seven in 10 renters worry about asking for repairs in case they face a rent increase, a new survey has found. Picture: Getty

It’s been a tough time for renters in Australia, who have seen rental options dwindle in recent years and competition for available homes rise.

This has driven many renters to settle for properties that maybe don't quite fit the bill, and when renters finally do find the property they're looking for, they may not want to fully exercise their rights in fear of a rent rise.

But it’s important for renters to understand what protections are in place for them, depending on where they live.

Tenants' rights are different across the states and territories, but there are some shared values which are the same across the country, such as a safe and healthy environment.

REA Group senior economist Anne Flaherty said the power dynamic has shifted towards the landlord, particularly over the last five years. Picture: Supplied

Tenants have the right to privacy, meaning no surprise inspections without notice, and renters have the right to end a tenancy early, however you may need to pay a break lease fee.

While renters are encouraged to stand up for their rights, all of this comes against a backdrop of ever-increasing rental costs that many renters have been struggling to keep up with.

The ACOSS study found a third of renters would be unable to afford their rent if it went up by 5%.

Yet rents continue to rise nationally, with the latest data showing Australia’s median rent grew by 5% to $630 per week during the March 2025 quarter compared with the same time last year, according to PropTrack.

REA Group senior economist Anne Flaherty said Australia’s rental market had been very challenging for tenants in recent years.

“The power dynamic has shifted towards the landlord, particularly over the past five years,” she said.

“However, it isn't the same case in every suburb, and I think that tenants and landlords alike need to look at the situation in their own local market.

“There are suburbs around Australia where we've seen rents rise very significantly, but similarly there are suburbs that have seen significant declines in recent months too.”

Overall, Ms Flaherty said the rental market was challenged for renters, but there were some positive signs such as a significant number of suburbs where rents were decreasing and a growing number of investors returning to the market to provide additional rental housing supply.

The survey was published by the ACOSS/UNSW Sydney-led Poverty and Inequality Partnership, National Shelter and the National Association of Renter Organisations (NARO).

The post Power shift: Renters afraid to speak up as landlords hold the cards appeared first on realestate.com.au.

Think twice before you put that stone yard ornament in the giveaway pile.

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 00:00:57 +0000

Think twice before you put that stone yard ornament in the giveaway pile.

Laser giving ‘superhero vision’ following natural disasters

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 23:21:00 +0000

Helicopter-mounted laser scanners are going where emergency personnel cannot following natural disasters, helping to spot unstable slopes, sinkholes, structural problems and flood-prone zones before they become deadly.

The technology was recently deployed by Bennett + Bennett, a surveying company with offices in Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast and Northern Rivers, following Cyclone Alfred.

The firm is one of only a handful in the Southern Hemisphere with the Ultra Rich Aerial Laser Scanning technology, which works like “giving city planners superhero vision from above”.

Gold Coast aerial mapping of damage post Cyclone Alfred. Supplied.

While the human eye sees trees, buildings and seemingly solid ground, the RIEGL VUX-160 LiDAR laser scanners fire off millions of precise laser beams to reveal what’s hidden to the naked eye and the problems that traditional surveys might miss entirely.

The RIEGL VUX-160 LiDAR laser scanner. Supplied.

“The technology fires two million laser pulses per second through the air and can even

penetrate vegetation,” Bennett + Bennety general manager of spatial team Liam Thierens said.

“Each pulse measures distance to whatever it hits, building up a rich 3D picture of what’s actually there versus what you can see from the surface.

“Traditional surveys might miss stress lines, depressions or other defects, but this technology captures it all.

“It’s like having detailed blueprints of areas that have never been properly mapped before.”

Named: Aussie suburbs tipped to boom

Why inner-city homes are selling out before reaching the market

Super vs property: see which one makes you richer

Erosion on Gold Coast beaches after Cyclone Alfred. Picture supplied by City of Gold Coast.

From 300m above, the technology can detect objects as small as a coffee cup and measure distances accurately within millimetres, turning what used to be weeks of dangerous ground work into hours of safe aerial mapping.

Source: Bennett + Bennett

Bennett + Bennett CEO Craig Wood said that when a natural disaster strikes, the team could map the damage in days instead of weeks, allowing for councils, first responders and recovery teams to make critical decisions faster.

“But more importantly, we’re identifying risks before they become disasters,” Wood said.

“That hidden sinkhole, that unstable slope, that flood-prone area that looks perfectly safe, we find these invisible threats before they can harm anyone.”

Source: Bennett + Bennett

The technology is a far cry from the traditional way to survey an area on foot using wooden pegs, he said.

But it is not just disaster-affected areas that are being surveyed.

The technology is also being used on major projects such as Queens Wharf, the Maroochydore City Centre, Cross River Rail, Snowy Hydro 2.0 and the new Coomera Hospital.

Ultra Rich Aerial Laser Scanning works by mounting sophisticated LiDAR laser equipment onto helicopters or light aircraft.

The system sends millions of laser pulses per second toward the ground, with each pulse measuring the exact distance to whatever it hits, whether that’s a tree canopy, building roof, or the ground beneath vegetation.

The result is an incredibly detailed 3D point cloud containing billions of data points that reveal not just what’s visible on the surface, but what lies beneath vegetation, structures, and other obstacles.

This data is then processed into actionable intelligence for councils, developers, engineers, and emergency responders.

“Every scan helps create safer communities, smarter cities, and more resilient infrastructure,” Wood said.

Buildings damaged by the “relatively low wind speeds” of ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred have revealed what aspects will need to be drastically improved so communities can continue to function after future cyclones. Source: James Cook University

Cyclone Alfred menaced the Queensland coastline from February 21 to March 9, reaching category four intensity while offshore on February 27.

It then travelled down the coast and crossed over Bribie Island as a category one system on March 8.

“Alfred caused significant damage to southeast Queensland and northeastern New South Wales through damaging wind gusts, heavy rainfall with subsequent flooding impacts and severe coastal erosion of beaches,” a statement from the Bureau of Meteorology said.

“Heavy rainfall was recorded for a prolonged period over northeastern NSW and southeast Queensland.”

The second Bribie Island breakthrough increased in size after it formed in the aftermath of Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred. Photo: Caloundra Fishing World

The post Laser giving ‘superhero vision’ following natural disasters appeared first on realestate.com.au.

Rent crisis: Aussies paying people to attend inspections

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 23:10:00 +0000

Nabbing a rental property has become increasingly difficult, but some Aussies are making money by helping others attend inspections.

Adam Walker, 29 from Dee Why in Sydney’s Northern beaches, has made well over $2500 since joining outsourcing company Airtasker 18 months ago, carrying out more than 50 inspections for those who can’t attend themselves.

“I work in the removalist industry, so for me it’s kind of a thing I do in my downtime,” he said.

“The majority of my inspections are midweek, so a Monday or a Wednesday, but there are also agents who do by appointment only where I’ll have the whole place to myself.

“Depending on the client, I could take photos of the inside and the outside. I also take video from the street and entrance of the building and a detailed video of the insight of the building.”

MORE NEWS

Tradies answer desperate Aussie’s plea

Surprise reason banks are black-listing Aussies

Little-known hack Aus buyers are missing out on

Airtasker Adam Walker inspecting a unit in Sydney.

Mr Walker said he charges $50 per inspection but the average task price – according to Airtasker – is between $40 and $200, with prices varying depending on how many inspections the user needs completed.

“One of my regular clients gets me to do around 6 (inspections a week),” he said.

“(And) one of my clients I work for, they have a business where they help people find homes to tend to book a bunch of people to do inspections.

“So it’s a good side income…and helps people (find a home) who might be working full time during the week but I also had clients who were overseas or have been away.”

Mr Walker’s advice for others looking to follow in his footsteps is to bring a can do attitude.

“If you want to get into this full time or even just as a side hustle, you really got to look for the work,” he said.

“You also have to put yourself in the shoes of your clients. Imagine you were inspecting your own home.

“You’d want to look presentable and I also, most of the time, check in on behalf of the (client) or say who I’m there for so they can tick that name off their list.”

New Airtasker data revealed paid rental inspections jumped by 105 per cent over the past year, with the highest demand in Melbourne, followed by Brisbane and Sydney.

MORE NEWS: Little-known rule could save you $800

Airtasker can apply for as many jobs as they want, making – on average – $50 per inspection.

Airtasker Founder and CEO Tim Fung said tightening vacancy rates had propelled demand for paid property inspections.

“With low vacancy rates and high demand, it’s sometimes difficult to get to inspections, especially when working full-time, or trying to secure a place before relocating. This is where the power of the Airtasker community comes in,” he said.

“People are using Airtasker to get help with on-the-ground rental inspections as Taskers will physically go to a property, take photos, do a walk-through, sometimes even jump on a video call so the renter can get a real-time look. It’s become a valuable way to level the playing field, especially for people interstate or overseas, or just too time-poor to make it to every single open home.”

Mr Fung adds there was no cap on how many inspections an individual could complete each week, leaving the door wide open for making serious money on the side.

“We’re seeing some Taskers double down in this category, building up a bank of customers wanting their inspection services, especially in high-demand cities,” he said.

“Others might do one or two here and there to earn some extra cash.

“Taskers can take on as many or as few jobs as they like, and people can choose someone who’s got the time and availability that suits the customer.”

The post Rent crisis: Aussies paying people to attend inspections appeared first on realestate.com.au.

Designers love this creative way to add texture and pattern.

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 23:01:07 +0000

Designers love this creative way to add texture and pattern.

Why RBA rate cut hopes won’t help everyone

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 22:30:00 +0000

Australia’s four big banks Commonwealth, Westpac, NAB, ANZ. Picture: NCA Newswire

Borrowers are already banking on a July rate cut that hasn’t happened yet, and experts say that could cost them.

Headline inflation has dropped to 2.1 per cent, while the Reserve Bank’s preferred measure, core inflation, has fallen to 2.4 per cent — placing both back inside the RBA’s official 2-3 per cent target band for the first time in years.

The result has seen two of the big four banks — CBA and NAB — shift their forecasts to tip a cash rate cut as early as July 8, while Westpac and ANZ still expect a move in August.

Named: Aussie suburbs tipped to boom

Jaw-dropping Aussie mansion shatters record

But brokers and market watchers warn some Australians are jumping the gun, locking in decisions on the assumption that lower rates, and bigger borrowing power, are guaranteed.

Canstar data shows a 0.25 percentage point RBA cut would reduce monthly repayments on a $600,000 loan by about $90.

A $1m loan would fall by $150 a month, assuming banks pass on the full reduction.

For borrowers with three or four cuts by mid-2026, those savings could rise to $265-$350 per month.

Even a 0.25 percentage point cut could shave up to $150 off monthly mortgage repayments on a $1m loan, according to Canstar.

But Canstar group executive of financial services Sally Tindall said borrowers shouldn’t assume anything just yet.

“Today’s monthly CPI results, while only an indicator, leave the door wide open for the RBA to cut the cash rate in July,” Ms Tindall said.

“The fact that the Board considered the case for a double cut at the last meeting gives us good insight into its thinking and suggests it will almost certainly consider the case for a cut at the next one.”

Ms Tindall said the numbers put the RBA in a strong position, but cautioned against overconfidence.

“Headline inflation is now just a fraction off the bottom of the central bank’s 2 to 3 per cent target band, while core inflation is now under the halfway mark at an annual rate of 2.4 per cent.”

“While the data opens the door to a cut in July, borrowers should not consider it a done deal. The Board could opt to wait for the full quarterly CPI results, which aren’t out until the end of July.”

Canstar Data Insights director Sally Tindall says inflation has re-entered the RBA’s target range, but borrowers shouldn’t assume a rate cut is locked in.

Zippy Financial principal broker Louisa Sanghera said many of her clients were already asking what the cut would mean for them, and in some cases, adjusting their budgets too soon.

“Even a 0.25 percentage point cut can make a big difference, especially when you consider how large the average mortgage is these days,” Ms Sanghera said.

“But people are always dreaming bigger than their budgets. We’ve had clients circling back with ambitious goals, bigger homes, investment properties, and asking if the changing rate environment will get them over the line.”

Zippy Financial’s Louisa Sanghera says clients are circling bigger homes and investment properties on the assumption that cuts are coming.

Ms Sanghera said some borrowers were pausing refinancing or delaying major decisions, waiting for the RBA to make its move.

“There’s a real sense of people sitting on the edge of their seats, ready to jump if rates go down,” she said.

“If the deal stacks up today, go for it. If it’s borderline, then sure, wait and see what the RBA does in July. But I personally don’t think a cut is guaranteed.”

The Zippy Financial principal broker said some banks were already being proactive, repricing loans or negotiating harder with existing customers.

“Most of our clients are able to get their rates repriced just by asking, and we do that regularly for them,” Ms Sanghera said.

Belle Property/Hocking Stuart state director Anthony Webb says even talk of a July rate cut is fuelling new buyer momentum ahead of spring.

Belle Property and Hockingstuart Victoria and Tasmania head Anthony Webb said the mere anticipation of a cut was already shifting buyer behaviour.

“There’s growing optimism, particularly as we head into the second half of the year, that a July cut could help us build toward a more robust and active spring selling season,” Mr Webb said.

Mr Webb said first-home buyers were the most responsive group, particularly those with tight borrowing constraints.

“They’re the most sensitive to changes in borrowing power, and even a small reduction can give them that final push to enter the market,” he said.

“Some people think a small rate drop suddenly means they can afford a much bigger home — but in most cases it gives them a few thousand dollars extra at best.”

Mr Webb said regional areas like Bendigo and Geelong were already heating up, while metro Melbourne remained patchy.

“Bendigo is flying, properties are moving quickly and confidence is high. Geelong is also gaining momentum. Metro is still stop-start,” he said.

We asked interior designers how and where to get the look.

Ex-Goldman Sachs chair snaps up $14.5m Portsea mansion

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 21:48:00 +0000

Marlborough House in Portsea, has sold.

Goldman Sachs’ former top investment banker, Christian Johnston, and his wife, Jinah, have purchased a heritage-listed eight-bedroom Portsea house for about $14.5m.

Mr Johnston, who retired as chairman of Goldman Sachs in 2023, recently snapped up the property from sports marketing and communications bigwig Simon Strapp and his wife Allison.

Strapp is a chief executive at TPF Group which includes a creative and brand agency and a sports promotional agency.

The sports company’s clients have included several AFL teams, Melbourne Victory and Cricket Australia, while the other agency has worked with Mazda, Grill’d, Stihl, Grey Goose Vodka, Bombay Sapphire and Rexona, among many others.

Mornington Peninsula family’s beach box could sell for a $1m

$30m Portsea mansion that took 15 years to build could challenge suburb’s price record

More than two decades ago, the Strapps purchased the circa-1902 Marlborough House, a

former boarding house.

Across their years in the home they installed a pool and tennis court in addition to undertaking other work in sympathy with the residence’s history.

Classified as a significant property by the National Trust, the abode also features a billiards room, sitting room with a bar, gardens by famous landscape designer Paul Bangay and a separate studio with a cinema and cellar.

Set on 4047sq m, it was listed with $16m-$17.5m price hopes last year.

The pool is a modern addition to the 123-year-old home.

There’s a fireplace and dark-toned walls in the billiards room.

A country-style kitchen showcasing double sinks and double ovens.

At the time, Mr Strapp told the Herald Sun that he and his wife were selling because their five children had grown up.

However, Marlborough House was later withdrawn from the market without being sold.

But Sotheby’s International Realty Peninsula managing director Rob Curtain said that when he met a Victorian-based family seeking to buy a substantial Portsea home, he thought the resort-style residence might suit them.

Mr Curtain said Marlborough House’s owners were happy for the family to look through the property and an off-market sale followed, with the deal settling a couple of weeks ago.

The pool house contains photos of iconic Hollywood stars.

Enjoy a spot of tennis.

Affordability in Brisbane has tanked. iStock

“For the first time, Melbourne eclipsed Brisbane and Hobart in terms of having the highest percentage of affordable suburbs for units,” the report by PRD chief economist Dr Diaswati Mardiasmo says.

“Melbourne recorded 42.9 per cent of affordable suburbs, much higher than Brisbane’s 38.7 per cent and slightly higher than Hobart’s 41 per cent.

“Compared to the 2nd Half 2024 report, the percentage of affordable suburbs has declined for all capital cities and almost all stock types.

“The largest decline is in Brisbane units. In the 2nd Half 2024 report, there were 60.3 per cent affordable unit suburbs.

“This proportion has dramatically declined to 38.7 per cent.”

Units have seen the biggest decline in affordability in Brisbane.

PERCENTAGE OF HOMES DEEMED AFFORDABLE AND LIVEABLE

HOUSES (No. of suburbs/% Affordable)

SYDNEY: 322 7.8%

BRISBANE: 218 25.2%

MELBOURNE: 224 24.6%

HOBART: 49 42.9%

ADELAIDE: 338 46.7%

GOLD COAST: 63 34.9%

UNITS (No. of suburbs/% Affordable)

SYDNEY: 312 36.9%

BRISBANE: 199 38.7%

MELBOURNE: 224 42.9%

HOBART: 39 41%

ADELAIDE: 267 49.4%

GOLD COAST: 56 53.6%

(Source: PRD Smart Moves)

***

But the report found that units continued to provide the best hope for buyers in Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne and Hobart, with stark contrasts in affordability across houses and units.

In Sydney, the number of affordable house suburbs sits at 7.8 per cent compared to 36.9 per cent for units.

A suburb was deemed affordable and liveable if its median sales price was below the capital city average.

Units offer the only hope for anyone trying to crack the Sydney market

Suburbs deemed both affordable and liveable for houses in Greater Sydney were all located in the west, and included Condell Park, Guildford, Sefton, Chester Hill, Punchbowl, Greenacre, Granville, Lakemba, Auburn and Merrylands.

Nine of the top 10 unit suburbs in Sydney were also in the west.

But it was Brisbane that proved the hardest to choose suburbs that were both affordable and liveable due to property price growth in most of the city’s suburbs, and a low level of new residential stock planned, the report warned.

“Sydney and Melbourne proved easier, as many suburbs are still experiencing negative or low-price growth, yet with a higher level of new residential stock in the pipeline.”

It was revealed that of Brisbane’s 218 suburbs for houses, only 55 were MOW considered affordable.

Suburbs that made that benchmark for houses included Coopers Plains, Springwood, Taigum, Griffin, Slacks Creek, Lawnton, Inala, Alexandra Hills, Logan Central and Zillmere, with median prices ranging from $516,500 (Logan Central) to $822,500 (Taigum).

MORE: Australia’s ‘most attractive’ handout revealed

‘Phantom homes’: Hidden reason housing crisis is worse than feared

33 Libra Street, Inala, in Brisbane is already under offer after being listed for $750,000

For units, affordable and liveable suburbs included Bowen Hills, Albion, Upper Mount Gravatt, Nundah, Springwood, Griffin, Slacks Creek, Lawnton, Zillmere and Spring Hill.

10 Taragon Street, Bald Hills.

Of Melbourne’s 224 house suburbs 55 were affordable, while across Hobart’s 49 suburbs, just 21 met the benchmark.

The affordable Melbourne suburbs included Epping, Sunshine West and St Albans, while for Hobart, Berriedale, Rokeby and Risdon Vale made the list.

“Hobart still has the most affordable chosen suburbs for houses, followed by Melbourne,” the report said.

“Brisbane is now the second most expensive city for houses, especially for those that are also looking for liveability and the possibility of new housing stock.

“The prospect of this price growth slowing down is unlikely, due in part to the concentrated nature of new stock.

“That is, they are mostly found in suburbs that have a median house price closer to or higher than the Brisbane Metro median house price.”

Meanwhile, chosen suburbs for units show median prices that are approximately on par between all four capital cities.

“That said, Brisbane’s most affordable unit prices are at times pricier than Sydney’s, due to ensuring there is a reasonable amount of ready-to-sell stock planned for construction in 2025,” it noted.

“This is the same pattern as the 2nd Half 2024 report series, which suggests that to access new stock, Brisbanites must sacrifice affordability for availability.”

Listings on real estate portals also make it tough with buyers, with many not listing a price, merely saying “make an offer”, “expressions of interest” or simply “for sale”.

Others are scheduled to go to auction.

In Brisbane, a three bedroom house at Bald Hills is listed for sale for best offers over $699,000 by June 30.

The median house price in the River City is now $989,818.

10 Taragon Street, Bald Hills, is listed for sale with best offers over $699,000.

In Sydney, a three bedroom cottage in Hazelbrook is listed with a price guide of $1.2 million to $1.28 million.

Hazelbrook is about 85km from the city centre.

The median house price in Greater Sydney is $1,474,343.

82 Railway Parade, Hazelbrook.

In Melbourne, a two bedroom Victorian cottage in South Melbourne is listed for offers between $850,000 and $900,000.

The median house price in Melbourne is now $934,500, approximately $55,000 less than the Brisbane median house price.

Holly Gillham and Shayleigh Chapman fishing at 4 McDonald Rd, Queenscliff, back in 2018. Picture: Mike Dugdale

A waterfront property with a private lagoon adjoining Swan Bay could be the perfect catch for fishing and kayaking enthusiasts.

Launching a hobby craft has never been easier than at 4 McDonald Rd, Queenscliff, a 3.46ha lifestyle listing with unparalleled access to the Ramsar wetland.

Uninterrupted views over the bay, native woodland and open grassy space are on offer from a three-bedroom weatherboard cottage currently used as a holiday rental.

Half done house dangles dual waterfront carrot

First-timers’ surprise win at Geelong West

The private seagrass meadow covers much of the acreage property.

There’s even a bridge to a private island where you can entertain under a gazebo overlooking the lagoon.

RT Edgar, Bellarine listing agent Felix Hakins said the property was a nature lover’s paradise in an exclusive and secluded setting.

He has set a $3.5m to $3.85m price guide for an expressions of interest campaign closing on July 25.

“It is really the only one that has got access bay access there, really it’s canoe access and small craft – you can’t have motorised craft on Swan Bay,” Mr Hakins said.

“But you can definitely get your canoe through there and it’s a really nice set up with all the bird life throughout.

“You get a lot of people that are fishing in there in as well so it’s a great fishing spot.”

How’s the serenity?

The living room frames water views.

Nature lovers will be in their element.

He said the property would work equally well as a permanent residence or holiday getaway, with scope to expand the living space or even build another dwelling, subject to council approval.

An updated bathroom is among improvements at the house, which retains hardwood timber floors and expansive glazing framing 360-degree views.

The open-plan living area includes a galley kitchen and dining area and flows out to wraparound covered deck with a northern and easterly aspect.

A fire pit and stone pizza oven provide other options for outdoor entertaining, while the kids can let their imaginations run wild in the elevated cubby house hidden among the trees.

There’s lots of storage for canoes and paddleboards in the shed, which includes garaging for two cars.

The post Waterfront Queenscliff hideaway selling with private lagoon appeared first on realestate.com.au.

Tanked: Where Brisbane’s affordable, liveable suburbs are now

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 20:00:00 +0000

Brisbane’s most affordable and liveable suburbs have been revealed, but there is some bad news for buyers.

Melbourne is officially more affordable than Brisbane, with the southern capital now offering more suburbs at accessible prices.

Now, Brisbane’s most affordable and liveable suburbs are those that only a few years ago would have been largely avoided by buyers but with home values continuing to rise, these once maligned suburbs are taking their turn in the spotlight.

Brisbane’s median home price is higher than Melbourne.

The latest PRD Smart Moves report for Brisbane shows that median property prices in the River City rose 6.8 per cent between Q1-2024 and Q1-2025, albeit it at a slower level quarter-on-quarter.

“Melbourne recorded 42.9 per cent of affordable suburbs, much higher than Brisbane’s 38.7 per cent and slightly higher than Hobart’s 41 per cent.

“Compared to the 2nd Half 2024 report, the percentage of affordable suburbs has declined for all capital cities and almost all stock types.

“The largest decline is in Brisbane units. In the 2nd Half 2024 report, there were 60.3 per cent affordable unit suburbs.

“This proportion has dramatically declined to 38.7 per cent.”

To be considered both affordable and liveable, the chosen suburbs needed to have a median sales price below that of the city median, while also offering amenities, lower crime rates, an a lower unemployment rate.

PRD SMART MOVES REPORT

The report noted that the decline in Brisbane “suggests a clear undersupply for both property types, as there is reduced sales volume and continued price growth”.

It noted that $21.3 billion of projects are planned in Brisbane Metro in 2025, focusing on mixed-use and infrastructure developments, some of which are aimed at increasing supply.

“However, there is an emphasis on constructing more townhouses (2262), units (10,108), and residential lots (13,194) rather than stand-alone houses (186),” the report said..

“This suggests that the undersupply of stand-alone houses will persist, which will drive up median property prices further for all stock types.”

MORE: Aussie suburbs tipped to boom

Why inner-city homes are selling out before reaching the market

Party pad that has hosted celebs and sports stars hits the market

33 Libra Street, Inala, is listed for $750,000

The report also looked at top growth suburbs where median prices have soared.
In the inner ring, the top performers were Lutwyche (houses, 21.8% growth) and Balmoral (units, 41.8% growth).

In the city’s north, Virginia ruled for houses (+35.8%) and Boondall for units (+35.5%).

The top performers in the city’s south were Rocklea (houses, 34.4%) and Woodridge (units, +43.4%).

To the east, Birkdale was the winner for houses (+28.3%), while for units it was Alexandra Hills (+39.9%).

And to the west, Moggil reigned supreme for houses (+28.9%), while for units, Mitchelton came in tops with 38.6 per cent growth.

“The average vendor discounts between Q1 2024 and Q1 2025 have swung from a premium to a neutral zero per cent for houses, indicating a balanced house market where neither buyers nor sellers hold a clear advantage,” the report said.

“Units are still attracting a premium, but it has lessened to a premium of 1.4 per cent.

“The unit market still favours sellers, mostly because house buyers need to re-route their

preferences.

“But a swing away from high premiums suggests a market shift – one that is ideal for buyers.”

PRD SMART MOVES REPORT: Brisbane price brackets

The median sales price for houses in Brisbane is now $989,000, while for units it is $698,000.

The report revealed that the dominant proportion of homes sold in Brisbane Metro across 2024/25 were in the most affordable price bracket of less than $849,999 (43.8%) for houses and less than $549,999 (33.1%) for units.

“This presents an encouraging opportunity for home buyers,” the report found.

“Strong sales were also seen in the premium price point, with 30 per cent of houses sold at $1.15 million and above and 19.7 per cent of units sold at $850,000 and above, signalling positive prospects for owners of both property types.”

28 Bindi Street, Logan Central, is listed for $950,000+

The report found that both the house and unit markets in Brisbane Metro had yet to reach their peak of the market.

12 Oregano Close, Griffin, is listed for offers over $849,000

For renters, house rental yields in Brisbane Metro sat at 3.2 per cent as of March, outperforming Sydney (2.7%) and Melbourne (3.1%).

The vacancy rate in Brisbane (0.9%) was also lower than that of Sydney (1.3%) and Melbourne (1.5%).

35 Janice Street, Slacks Creek, is listed for offers over $749,000

***

TOP 10 AFFORDABLE AND LIVEABLE SUBURBS

BRISBANE

HOUSES: Coopers Plains, Springwood, Taigum, Griffin, Slacks Creek, Lawnton, Inala, Alexandra Hills, Logan Central, Zillmere

UNITS: Bowen Hills, Albion, Upper Mount Gravatt, Nundah, Springwood, Griffin, Slacks Creek, Lawnton, Zillmere, Spring Hill

***

GOLD COAST

HOUSES: Pimpama, Coomera, Nerang, Upper Coomera, Jacobs Well, Pacific Pines, Labrador, Southport, Arundel, Parkwood

UNITS: Nerang, Southport, Biggera Waters, Labrador, Pimpama, Pacific Pines, Coomera, Surfers Paradise, Parkwood, Robina

***

SYDNEY

HOUSES: Condell Park, Guildford, Sefton, Chester Hill, Punchbowl, Greenacre, Granville, Lakemba, Auburn, Merrylands

UNITS: Sefton, Roselands, Belmore, Punchbowl, Narwee, Granville, Lakemba, Auburn, Merrylands, Harris Park

***

MELBOURNE

HOUSES: Williams Landing, Heidelberg West, St Albans, Sunshine North, Thomastown, Epping, Tullamarine, Truganina, Lalor, Sunshine West

UNITS: Maribyrnong, North Melbourne, Kensington, Williams Landing, South Yarra, Ormond, St Albans, Hawthorn, Epping, Carlton

***

ADELAIDE

HOUSES: Northfield, Bowden, Blair Athol, Salisbury North, Ridgehaven, Salisbury, Woodville Gardens, Taperoo, Para Hills, Modbury North

UNITS: Para Hills West, Adelaide, Royal Park, Seacliff, Daw Park, Para Hills, Glynde, Keswick, Northfield, Alberton

***

HOBART

HOUSES: Goodwood, Mornington, Lutana, Warrane, Clarendon Vale, Geilston Bay, Berriedale, Rokeby, Risdon Vale, Glenorchy

UNITS: Moonah, Goodwood, Mornington, Lutana, Mount Nelson, Clarendon Vale, Berriedale, Risdon Vale, Glenorchy, New Town

(Source: PRD Smart Moves Capital Cities 1st Half 2025)

The post Tanked: Where Brisbane’s affordable, liveable suburbs are now appeared first on realestate.com.au.

Hobart rental prices are stable or growing

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 19:30:00 +0000

A growing number of Hobart suburbs are recording price increases.

Hobart renters will be set a tough challenge when looking for a home that costs less now than it did at the start of the year.

The latest PropTrack rental figures show houses in only three greater Hobart suburbs cost less in May than they did in February.

Old Beach rents dipped by 5 per cent, Hobart city by 3 per cent and West Hobart by 1 per cent. In Old Beach this change was worth $10, in Hobart $33, and in West Hobart $25.

Of the 34 suburbs where house rents were analysed, 16 had growth figures and 15 had no change. For units, there were twice as many growth suburbs (13) than areas with a 0 per cent change (6).

In the unit corner of the market, just two suburbs recorded decreases in the median rental price — Rokeby and Kingston.

Both areas were down by 2 per cent over the three-month period. However, both saw growth between 2-4 per cent on a year-on-year comparison.

MORE: Decade of growth puts homes ahead of super

Shut out: Hobart homebuyers face $64k income hike

Securing a rental house for under $500 per week is becoming harder and harder.

The largest change in unit prices by percentage was in Moonah, which became $30 per week more expensive by growing 7 per cent. Battery Point rental asks increased by 5 per cent, while Lenah Valley and Bellerive grew by 4 per cent.

The largest quarterly change was in Chigwell houses, moving up from $480 per week to $510, a 6 per cent uptick. Blackmans Bay, Dodges Ferry, Mornington and Midway Point all grew by 4-5 per cent.

The most expensive suburbs were houses in Battery Paint ($705), Sandy Bay ($673), Lenah Valley ($623), West Hobart ($620) and Blackmans Bay ($615).

Eleanor Creagh, REA Group senior economist.

REA Group senior economist Eleanor Creagh said broadly Hobart was experiencing more upward pressure on rents than regional Tasmania.

“In Hobart, more than half of suburbs recorded an increase over the quarter to May,” she said.

“Outside the capital, conditions remain a little more subdued. Half of regional Tasmanian suburbs had flat or falling rents.

“People in regional areas might find a slightly easier path than those in the tighter and potentially more challenging Hobart rental market.”

MORE: Grand Designs’ Triptych strikes a chord with thousands

How much rate cuts could save Hobart homebuyers

SQM Research figures show a tightening vacancy rate in May.

Last year there were 377 vacancies in Hobart, at a 1.3 per cent rate, but this year the number has slipped to just 177 and a 0.6 per cent vacancy rate.

0.6 per cent is the second-tightest rental vacancy rate in Australia behind only Darwin at 0.5.

A healthy rate is considered to be 3 per cent, which Hobart has not recorded since it reached exactly 3 per cent in April 2012.

Peterswald business development manager, Dani Shields, described greater Hobart’s vacancy rate as “significantly lower than the national average”.

Ms Shields said this was an indication of the shortfall of rental properties relative to demand and a competitive market for tenants.

She said it was “very” challenging to find a house for under $500 in Hobart.

“Over the last 10 years, finding a rental property for under $500 per week in Hobart has become increasingly difficult,” Ms Shields said.

Dani Shields, Peterswald business development manager.

“While there are some properties currently available at this price point, they are limited and often consist of smaller units or properties located further out.

“The shortage of affordable rentals means tenants often face strong competition, with properties being snapped up within a matter of days.

“This makes it difficult for individuals and families to secure budget-friendly housing in Hobart.”

While the overall shortage of rentals affects most of greater Hobart, Ms Shields said it often comes down more to the type and quality of the property rather than a single location that needs more rentals.

She said well-presented homes in good, clean condition attract strong interest wherever they are.

“However, we have consistently seen particularly high numbers of inquiries on properties in Sandy Bay, Bellerive and Hobart’s northern suburbs reflecting strong demand in these suburbs for quality rental homes,” she said.

Ms Creagh said rental market conditions in Hobart might favour investors.

She said broadly activity had improved over the past 18 months with new investor loans close to highs not seen in nearly a decade.

“Relatively tight rental markets are one factor that encourages this pick up in investor activity,” she said.

“With interest rates moving lower, and expected to move lower again throughout the year, it could bolster investor activity.

“Home values have been softer in Hobart than other capitals in recent years, and the combination of relatively low property prices and rising rents could see Hobart become increasingly appealing to investors.”

HOBART QUARTERLY RENTAL RESULTS
HOUSES
Suburb	May-25	Feb-25	May-24	QoQ	YoY
Chigwell	$510	$480	$475	6%	7%
Blackmans Bay	$615	$585	$573	5%	7%
Dodges Ferry	$510	$490	$480	4%	6%
Mornington	$550	$530	$523	4%	5%
Midway Point	$560	$540	$550	4%	2%
Rokeby	$540	$525	$490	3%	10%
Bellerive	$613	$598	$590	3%	4%
Glenorchy	$550	$540	$533	2%	3%
Moonah	$550	$540	$540	2%	2%
Lutana	$560	$550	$525	2%	7%
Berriedale	$508	$500	$500	1%	1%
Primrose Sands	$428	Zac Homes boss lists $7.5m beachfront penthouse Wed, 25 Jun 2025 19:00:00 +0000 Zac Homes CEO Peter Zaccazan (centre) is selling his Gold Coast penthouse A Western Sydney project home builder who splashed $7.5m on a newly built beachfront penthouse is the first owner to cash out of the boutique Gold Coast building. Zac Homes founder Peter Zaccazan purchased one of seven luxury sky homes in the Palm Beach tower, moving his family to Queensland during a surge in interstate migration post-Covid. The three-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment at 7/15 Jefferson Lane is listed for sale with Josh Willatt and Taylor Davis, of McGrath Estate Agents Palm Beach. 7/15 Jefferson Lane, Palm Beach The penthouse has a private rooftop entertaining zone with a heated pool It is marketed without a price guide via an expressions of interest campaign, with the unit the first resale within the 2021 development by Kazumi Nakagawa and Jason Kennedy. “The owner paid a pretty strong number for the property at the time, but when people come through they realise this one is really special, and nothing of this calibre has come to market in Palm Beach since,” Mr Willatt said. Features included spectacular ocean views and 532 sqm of living space over a full floor and private rooftop entertaining zone with a heated pool. It is the first to be re-sold within the building High-end finishes throughout “This high-end penthouse is the pinnacle of luxury with an outstanding floor plan with French oak flooring and 3m high ceilings, marble and stone throughout.” The property had served as a “Covid escape” for Mr Zaccazan, who continued to commute to his company’s Penrith homebase. “They bought this on a whim. There was an idea of, ‘let’s escape’ when the borders were closed during the pandemic, but then the owner was effectively doing FIFO [fly in fly out] every week while the kids were going to school here on the Coast,” Mr Willatt said. Spectacular ocean views MORE NEWS Buyer of epic mansion The Lighthouse revealed Ultimate party house on the market Hembrow’s $50m limbo in bombshell split It is the most expensive established apartment on the market in the suburb listed on realestate.com.au. PropTrack data shows unit prices in Palm Beach were up 8.4 per cent over the past 12 months to a median of $1,062,500. The post Zac Homes boss lists $7.5m beachfront penthouse appeared first on realestate.com.au. Enviable views make Hahndorf home stand out Wed, 25 Jun 2025 19:00:00 +0000 It has been a much-loved family home for the past two decades and now vendors Liz and Dilip say the time has come to let another family enjoy it. The couple bought the home at 151 River Rd in 2004 after arriving in Australia from the UK, falling in love with the Adelaide Hills and Hahndorf’s proximity to the city. “You can’t buy anything like this in the UK easily without having a few million pounds up your sleeve,” Liz says. MORE: Where you can buy for less than Adelaide’s median 151 River Rd, Hahndorf. 151 River Rd, Hahndorf. 151 River Rd, Hahndorf. “We really loved it because it was open, cute, had lovely views to Mount Lofty, most of the land is cleared and we’re surrounded by nice rolling hills. “There was a small house down nearer the road so we’ve built it up back from the road and designed it to really maximise those 270-degree views we have. “Plus we’re so close to the city – our friends always arrive early because it’s so much quicker to get here than they think it might.” The home has four bedrooms, an open-plan kitchen, meals and family area; a separate lounge and dining room, and a study. Outside you’ll find a sparkling inground swimming pool and the home sits on a spacious 10.87ha allotment with a 10.5 megalitre dam. MORE: Green shoots in SA’s housing shortage crisis 151 River Rd, Hahndorf. 151 River Rd, Hahndorf. 151 River Rd, Hahndorf. Ideal for their family, Liz says the time has come to downsize and let someone else enjoy the wonderful home they have created. “It’ll be a wrench to sell as this is the longest we’ve lived anywhere, but we’re in a different phase of our life,” she says. “We’ll certainly miss the wildlife and sitting out with a glass of wine enjoying the view.” The home is being sold via a best offers campaign, which closes at 1pm on July 7. The post Enviable views make Hahndorf home stand out appeared first on realestate.com.au. Auctions ramping up across SA before a lull Wed, 25 Jun 2025 19:00:00 +0000 South Australia is gearing up for two big weeks of auctions, with more than 250 properties scheduled to go under the hammer before a lull. PropTrack figures show 123 properties will be auctioned this week followed by another 134 in the first week of July. The following week auctions are expected to drop off, with just 30 scheduled so far. Of the 123 going under the hammer this week, 116 are in Adelaide and 7 are in regional areas. MORE: Social media star selling Adelaide home 220 Fletcher Rd, Largs Bay. 220 Fletcher Rd, Largs Bay. 220 Fletcher Rd, Largs Bay. MORE: SA’s ‘supercharged’ hotspots revealed Parafield Gardens was the top auction suburb, with four scheduled for the area, followed by Glenunga, Northfield, Prospect and Valley View, according to the data. A Largs Bay house was the most viewed property on realestate.com.au going under the hammer across the state this weekend. Selling agent Kate Smith, of Kate Smith Property, said the 2016-built five-bedroom home on a 710sqm block at 220 Fletcher Rd was proving popular among househunters. “It’s the impressive land size, and the fact that you’ve got a modern build and they’ve retained a full, generous allotment that’s added to the appeal,” she said. “These days it’s very unusual to have a modern build on a generous allotment.” She said househunters also appreciated modern builds more now because since Covid-19 hit, build costs have skyrocketed. The property will go under the hammer at 1.30pm on Saturday. Meanwhile, the North Haven home at 46 Tucker Cres was the second most viewed property going under the hammer across the state this weekend, followed by the Fulham Gardens house at 1A Dorset Ave. 220 Fletcher Rd, Largs Bay. 220 Fletcher Rd, Largs Bay. Ms Smith was also selling the four-bedroom Fulham Gardens home, which was set to be auctioned at 1pm on Sunday. She said its $949,000 price guide was attractive to prospective buyers given its location. “This one probably does need a bit of love but it’s still a good opportunity to get into a pretty sought-after area,” she said. While many agents opted not to auction properties in winter, Ms Smith said the weather gave sellers an advantage in some cases. “We know that in winter, if you’ve got buyers out there, especially on a challenging weather day, that they are genuine,” she said. “From a results aspect as well, some of our best results are achieved when there’s less competition for the vendors.” The post Auctions ramping up across SA before a lull appeared first on realestate.com.au. Roosters star’s massive money move Wed, 25 Jun 2025 19:00:00 +0000 Sydney Roosters star Nat Butcher is making a big money move that could set him up for life. Picture: Getty Sydney Roosters star Nat Butcher and his model wife Harmony have listed their recently completed redundant duplex in Matraville. The Butchers had the burgeoning home builder Future Flip create the luxury duplex after they paid $2.71m for a now-demolished two-level home on its 770 sqm block. It has great street appeal. Future Flip, ran by developer Neil Hipwell which is making a name for itself from Byron to the South Coast for its modern homebuilds, built two side-by-side homes, each with five bedrooms, a kitchen with Caeserstone benchtops, and a living room with a modern gas fireplace in a feature wall. The living space opens to a rear lawn and an in-ground pool. MORE: 40yo ‘disappointed’ he only has 300 homes NRL star Nat Butcher and wife Harmony have listed a duplex at Matraville. Harmony and Nat Butcher. The Butchers, with their one-year-old son Beau, intend to live in one of the homes. McGrath Coogee agent Marnie Seinor says it is the ultimate forever home for modern family living. Seinor is awaiting market feedback on price, but has scheduled a July 19 auction. Friends and family of the Butchers had previously used Future Flip. “The build took just 10 months,” Harmony told The Daily Telegraph “We’d seen the high standard of Future Flip homes,” Harmony said. “Quality is important to us; we didn’t want to compromise on the build or finishes. “We had control over the finishes and layout and took on board the architect’s great ideas. They brought our vision to life.” She especially loves its high ceilings, the open fireplace and the sunken lounge. MORE: Empty Airbnbs fuel Sydney’s rental crisis The Butchers had the burgeoning home builder Future Flip create the luxury duplex. Picture: Instagram Nat Butcher, who was recently ruled out for the next six weeks after suffering a recurrence of an MCL strain in training, said the home will suit a family. “It’s a big home with a big backyard and great for entertaining…… it’s also only five minutes to the beach.” Harmony, a model represented by Chic Management, has been documenting the building journey to her 91,000 Instagram followers. “The most exciting part of this build has been turning four walls into a space we call home,” Harmony wrote last month amid pictures of their recent furniture purchase with James Lane. The couple collaborated with Joshua Hill on the photography. Butcher, back left, was a part of the Roosters 2019 Grand Final winning team. (Photo by Matt King/Getty Images) Butcher in action for the Roosters this season. Picture: Getty Matraville has been a popular pocket for new-build duplexes by footballers. South Sydney Rabbitohs captain Cameron Murray is a few months off completion of his duplex. He bulldozed the original home bought with fiancee Miranda Cross for $3.1m in 2022. Former Sydney Swan Luke Parker developed a duplex in 2022. MORE: New builds vanish amid loan slump The post Roosters star’s massive money move appeared first on realestate.com.au. ‘Slippery slope’: Low FHB deposits spark NINJA loan fears Wed, 25 Jun 2025 19:00:00 +0000 First homebuyers are getting on the property ladder using increasingly smaller deposits, with new data showing they’re only stumping up 8 per cent of the loan upfront as governments offer more incentives. Research by Great Southern Bank reveals government assistance and financial help from family are making it easier than ever for first-time home seekers to buy a home. The bank found the average first homebuyer — a third of whom were aged 35 and over — had secured a home loan with a deposit of between 7.7 per cent and 8.9 per cent in the past 12 months. A couple who have just signed a mortgage after buying their first house. Picture: iStock. RELATED: ’Year of the first homebuyer’: 5 ways to get into the market In Queensland, the government has announced a new Boost to Buy scheme allowing those earning $150,000 or less the ability to buy a home valued up to $1m with just a 2 per cent deposit. Independent housing researcher, Cameron Kusher of Kusher Consulting, said governments’ involvement in the housing market by way of incentives risked pushing up prices further. In a post on his LinkedIn account, Mr Kusher said: “I get that we want more people in homes, but 2 per cent deposits for $1 million homes? I fear it is only a few years until governments here in Australia are supporting NINJA loans and 100 per cent LVR mortgages. Cameron Kusher, independent property analyst. MORE: ‘Ridiculous offers’ made for units in one hot market Superannuation vs. property returns: What’s the winner? “It seems like a slippery slope to me, one that both sides of politics continue to dabble in. “Not to mention the more that the government is involved in housing, via underwriting LMI, the more incentive they have for higher prices and thus the less incentive for lower prices.” Maria McQullian, a broker of 25 years and owner of Concinnate Financial Services, said the majority of first homebuyers were securing their properties with a 5 to 15 per cent deposit. “The First Home Guarantee (FHBG), Family Home Guarantee (FHG), family guarantor and lenders’ mortgage insurance (LMI) discounts are all beneficial in situations where it might take years to save a 20 per cent deposit and could mean missing out on the opportunity to buy at current prices,” she said. New research shows the average first homebuyer deposit is now 8%. Picture: David Swift. “Lenders can waive your LMI if you apply for a home loan through the Australian government’s Home Guarantee Scheme (HGS). “It allows eligible home buyers to get on the property market with a deposit as little as 2-5 per cent and Housing Australia guarantees the rest. “The re-elected Albanese government has also promised first home buyers there’ll be no LMI to pay so long as you have a 5 per cent deposit and meet eligibility criteria.” A happy first homebuyer couple sign a form for a home deposit. Great Southern Bank’s ‘No Place Like Home Report’ also revealed 43 per cent would look at government schemes for financial help, while about a quarter would ask their family for help or buy with a friend or sibling. Great Southern Bank chief customer officer Rolf Stromsoe said customers were finding a variety of pathways to home ownership. “These pathways play a crucial role in getting Australians on the property ladder sooner, and with a smaller deposit,” he said. “Aspirational buyers should strongly consider talking to a home loan expert or broker about their support options — they may need less than they think.” The post ‘Slippery slope’: Low FHB deposits spark NINJA loan fears appeared first on realestate.com.au. Former Indy boss John Cowley selling luxury apartment Wed, 25 Jun 2025 19:00:00 +0000 Former Indy boss John Cowley is selling his Surfers Paradise apartment. Former Indy boss and corporate identity John Cowley is selling his luxury Gold Coast apartment. The former race car driver and passionate revhead, who served as chairman of the Gold Coast’s Indy Carnival from 1998-2006, has put his Surfers Paradise unit on the market with Amir Prestige Group. The apartment is in the Northcliffe Residences. Gold Coast Ambassador Melissa Burrows and Indy Chairman John Cowley, pictured in 2005. Photo: Michael Ross The living area. Perched on the 23rd floor of Northcliffe Residences, the 401 sqm sky home offered breathtaking views and a lifestyle few will ever experience. Mr Cowley described the four-bedroom, five-bathroom property as a “once-in-a-lifetime” home, making its sale a reluctant decision. “I am very sorry to have to sell it, it is a beautiful way of life,” Mr Cowley said. “Living at this height has always been so quiet and peaceful. “You don’t hear neighbours and live in complete privacy overlooking the ocean.” MORE NEWS: World bikini champ buys epic Aus mansion Tammy Hembrow’s $50m empire at risk in divorce bombshell Entertain in style. Looking across the living area. Framed by floor-to-ceiling glass, the residence captures sweeping, uninterrupted views from Coolangatta to Stradbroke Island, with the ever-changing Pacific Ocean as its centrepiece. Inside, high-end finishes like flawless natural stone, rich timber detailing, and custom joinery elevate every room, creating an atmosphere of timeless elegance. The gourmet kitchen is anchored by a striking marble island and equipped with dual Miele ovens and fridges, complemented by bespoke cabinetry. The kitchen. What a view! A butler’s pantry adds extra prep space, complete with a second set of ovens, integrated dishwasher, and a zip tap for convenience during entertaining. The grand living and dining areas seamlessly flow onto a 47 sqm wraparound beachfront terrace, perfect for sophisticated gatherings or quiet moments overlooking the ocean. This Hoppers Crossing home sold for $728,000 after ditching an off-market campaign for a full advertising blitz. A Melbourne family who almost sold their long-time home off-market have walked away $45,000 richer. The move was thanks to a full-blown campaign that drew a flurry of offers and sealed the deal just days after hitting the market. The owners of 81 Birchwood Boulevard, Hoppers Crossing, had spent 27 years raising their kids in the three-bedroom home before making the emotional decision to sell, and initially tested the waters off-market with another agency. But when early offers failed to stack up, they handed the reins to Hockingstuart Werribee’s Justin Tong, and the results were swift. RELATED: Jaw-dropping Melb mansion shatters record Award-winning house scores six-figure bonus Royals, Marvel’s multimillion-dollar deal revealed “It was off-market for about a month and they were only receiving offers up to $680,000,” Mr Tong said. “We launched a full advertising campaign, had 14 groups through at the first open, received three written offers and sold it on the Sunday.” The property ultimately sold for $728,000, and Mr Tong said the sellers couldn’t have been happier. “They were ecstatic, really happy they chose the advertised approach,” he said. “It ended up getting them $45,000 more than what they were being offered previously, so they were definitely pleased.” A central kitchen comes equipped with a breakfast bar, gas cooktop and ample storage. Natural light floods the main living area, which flows to the backyard via sliding doors. According to property records, the home last sold for $124,000 in 1997, marking a more than five-fold increase over the family’s near three-decade ownership. And it wasn’t just a standout for sentiment. The result also outpaced the local median, with the latest PropTrack data showing the median house price in Hoppers Crossing is now $630,000, up 4.1 per cent over the past year. The red brick residence sits on a substantial 730sq m block and features multiple living areas, a spacious kitchen with breakfast bar, and a huge pergola designed for entertaining, complete with ceiling fan, potbelly stove and room to dine alfresco no matter the season. The spacious main bedroom includes a bay window, ensuite and wall-to-wall robes. A huge covered pergola delivers year-round entertaining space with a potbelly stove and ceiling fan. A lush, tree-lined backyard adds to the home’s tranquil appeal, while rare gated side access and a double garage make it a standout for tradies, hobbyists or families needing extra space. Mr Tong said letting go was bittersweet for the vendors, who raised their children there and had deep roots in the neighbourhood. “It was an emotional sale for them, but they’re downsizing and making a tree change to the Otways, so it’s also an exciting next chapter,” he said. The family bathroom features a walk-in shower, full-width mirror and modern finishes. Multiple living zones give families room to spread out, relax or entertain with ease. The Hockingstuart Werribee director said while off-market campaigns had grown in popularity, sellers should think twice before skipping open inspections. “Some buyers are trying to avoid competition, they want to secure something without going head-to-head at open homes or auctions,” Mr Tong said. “But that’s exactly why I don’t recommend off-market selling for most vendors. You risk leaving m $2b housing gamble to stop homelessness crisis Wed, 25 Jun 2025 18:30:00 +0000 A homeless person sleeping rough in the Brisbane CBD. Picture: NewsWire/ Glenn Campbell Experts fear historic $2b funding to tackle social housing supply and homelessness services could be overrun unless a bigger move is made to stop people falling into extremes in the first place. The Queensland state budget saw an allocation of around $1.967b over four years to grow social and community housing supply, along with historic ongoing investment of $500m a year beyond that period – said to be the first permanent funding commitment of its kind in the state. MORE: Australia’s ‘most attractive’ handout revealed “Utter horror”: cancelled contract prices single mum out of a home ‘Miki’, not her real name, lives on the streets in Brisbane. Picture: Richard Walker MORE: Brutal honesty sends 46-year Aus family home viral All the tax write offs Aussies can claim The allocation was welcomed by sector peak body QShelter CEO Fiona Caniglia as “a strong signal that the government is serious about meeting its target of 53,500 social and community homes by 2044”. Alongside that, $380.1m was allocated over five years to go into crisis accommodation and frontline homelessness services, of which $152.6m was for the 2025-26 financial year, and roughly $30-40m annually in subsequent years. “We congratulate the 20pc funding uplift for specialist homelessness services (SHS). While this increased investment is very welcome and much needed, our proposals to government urge reforms that shift our focus from crisis management to genuine prevention.” Ms Caniglia said “we can’t afford to wait until people’s circumstances are desperate to intervene”. A homeless person in Brisbane. Experts are calling for more to be done to prevent people falling into such circumstances in the first place. Picture: NewsWire/ Glenn Campbell QShelter’s 2026 budget submission called for the government to not just respond to current needs, but help prevent future homelessness and protect renters. It also identified the need to invest in workforce attraction, retention and wellbeing within the sector to sustain effective housing and homelessness services. Queensland has around 76,000 social housing units, of which 64,500 are state-owned, with the remaining owned or managed by community housing providers (CHPs) – with the waitlist as of March 2025 sitting at 52,031 people. The state’s most recent official data on homelessness, from the 2021 Census, estimated there were 22,428 people living rough, most of whom were in Brisbane LGA 7,517, Logan 3,950, Gold Coast 3,190, Moreton Bay 2,879, Ipswich 2,126 and Sunshine Coast 1,911. Queensland’s homelessness snapshot: State-wide: 22,428 people – Brisbane LGA: 7,517 – Logan: 3,950 – Gold Coast: 3,190 – Moreton Bay: 2,879 – Ipswich: 2,126 – Sunshine Coast: 1,911 (Source: 2021 Census) – Story by Katherine Lee The post $2b housing gamble to stop homelessness crisis appeared first on realestate.com.au. What to do if you miss a mortgage repayment Wed, 25 Jun 2025 08:10:00 +0000 If you are having financial trouble you can ask your lender about hardship options. You miss a mortgage repayment, what happens next? According to the experts, that largely depends on how quickly you spring into action. Say you miss one payment but you quickly make good. Then you stay on top of your future repayments. Finder home loans expert Richard Whitten says you may get hit with a late fee. If, on the other hand, you fail to make up that missed repayment, you could be at the top of a slippery slope. “You’ll soon receive a default notice and your credit score will take a hit,” he says. “If you’re in this situation you’re likely in financial distress. “In the worst case scenario your lender can start legal proceedings against you and ultimately reclaim your debt by forcing the sale of the property.” Lenders can force the sale of your property if you can’t pay your mortgage. Financial Rights Legal Centre director of Casework Alexandra Kelly says if you receive a formal default notice you should take it extremely seriously. MORE: Surprise reason banks are blacklisting Aussies Sneaky bank move costing you thousands “If you do not rectify the default in the period (generally a minimum of 31 days) they can accelerate your mortgage – which means it is no longer about the arrears, but the full amount due under your mortgage,” She says. “This can then result in formal repossession proceedings taking place through the relevant state court. “If a property is vacant, they do not need a court order.” Founder of Atelier Wealth Mortgage Brokers Aaron Christie-David. Picture: supplied Mortgage broker and managing director of Atelier Wealth Aaron Christie-David says if you come into unforeseen circumstances, like a job loss or illness that will affect your ability to pay your mortgage, you should call your bank or broker to discuss hardship arrangements before you start missing repayments. “You’ve got to put your hand up for help super, super early,” he says. “You need to ask for permission – you can’t ask for forgiveness.” The Financial Rights Legal Centre has a Mortgage Stress handbook as well as sample letters on their website that show how to ask your lender for hardship arrangements. There’s also a free and confidential National Debt Helpline on 1800 007 007. “Lenders are obliged to offer hardship arrangements to people in hardship, and this can help reflect your situation accurately in your credit history,” Kelly says. Finder’s Richard Whitten. INSURANCE COVER If you can’t afford to repay your mortgage on an ongoing basis, you may be faced with the difficult decision to sell, but if it looks like you will still owe the bank a shortfall after the sale, there are some things to consider. “A free financial counsellor can help you understand your financial position and give you some guidance on options available,” Kelly says. “Sometimes people hold insurance cover they can claim on during hardship – such as income protection or mortgage protection insurance. But, this is not always held or widely claimable – it will depend on the cause of your inability to pay.” Lenders Mortgage Insurance will not protect you in the case of mortgage default. Instead, it protects the lender. If you can’t pay your mortgage you may be forced with the difficult decision to sell. “Any shortfall amount left owing (if the property is sold for less than the mortgage debt) will be owed by you as an unsecured personal debt – but to the insurer and not the lender,” Kelly says. “The insurer may make contact through a debt collector to demand repayment.” Some LMI providers, like Helia, work alongside lenders to support borrowers experiencing hardship. “Helia assesses waiving shortfall debt on a case-by-case basis and considers circumstances such as family violence and illness,” a company spokeswoman says. “In 2024, Helia supported over 11,000 families experiencing hardship support helping them remain in their homes and provided $4.6m in shortfall debt waivers for borrowers who sold their property.” NEGATIVE EQUITY It’s not common for Australian borrowers to wind up in negative equity, Whitten says. September 2024 data from the RBA shows less than 1 per cent of all owner-occupier housing loan balances at the time were more than 90 days in arrears and that just 0.5 per cent of loans in arrears were estimated to be in negative equity. It’s better to contact your bank about hardship arrangements before you start missing payments. Picture: istock “RBA analysis in 2024 found that the borrowers most likely to be in mortgage arrears were high LVR borrowers (borrowers with smaller deposits relative to the amount they borrow),” Whitten says. Whether there is a shortfall on a property at the time of sale can depend on several factors, including market fluctuations and the borrower’s ability to manage debt, Kelly says. If you are trying to sell a property where you are receiving offers worth less than the amount you owe you need to ask your lender’s permission, she adds. “They will look at factors to make sure the offer is reasonable. You should always seek permission before you enter into a contract of sale, as they will need to agree,” she says. MORE: How you can save this end of financial year Singles face impossible property reality Where first-home buyers are snapping up 50pc of properties The post What to do if you miss a mortgage repayment appeared first on realestate.com.au. Mount Waverley luxe designer home hits market Wed, 25 Jun 2025 07:00:00 +0000 Custom-built from the ground up, this Mount Waverley family home at 32A Windsor Ave blends smart design with luxurious finishes. It started as a patch of dirt and a dream, now this bespoke Mount Waverley build is hitting the market for the first time. After returning from London and squeezing into a tiny Southbank apartment with a newborn, Trinh and Marcus Sia were ready to build their forever family home. They found the perfect block at 32A Windsor Ave, Mount Waverley, walking distance to trains, zoned for top schools, and perfectly placed between both sets of grandparents. RELATED: Named: Aussie suburbs tipped to boom Jaw-dropping Melb mansion shatters record Award-winning house scores six-figure bonus It was, as Trinh Sia recalls, “always meant to be the place we built our life.” “We bought the land when we got married and left it for a while living in Southbank,” Mrs Sia said. “Once our daughter Paige started crawling, we knew it was time to move, so we built the home with the vision of raising our kids here.” The result is a fully freestanding, custom-designed home on its own title, set on a low-maintenance 416sq m block. Listing agent Buxton Mount Waverley’s Peter Serafino said the move-in ready home gives buyers the space of a house with the ease of a townhouse. A central open-plan living zone became the heart of daily life for the Sia family, who raised three children in the custom-designed home. The kitchen forms part of a seamless open-plan layout, designed for cooking, gathering and everyday family connection. “There are no shared walls, no shared driveways, and a lot of thought in the floorplan,” Mr Serafino said. “That’s appealing to upsizers, downsizers, and professionals alike.” Built to grow with their family, the Sias designed an open-plan ground floor with a central living, dining and kitchen zone that quickly became the heart of the home. The backyard and covered alfresco zone were made for family gatherings, and have hosted countless birthday parties and barbecues. An additional living zone upstairs offers kids their own retreat, balancing the home’s layout between shared and private spaces. “That’s where everything happens,” Mrs Sia said. “Despite trying to make a toy room, the kids always ended up playing out here. “It’s where we’ve hosted family dinners, birthday parties, and daily life.” What started as a three-bedroom home evolved as the kids got older. One of the home’s stylish bathrooms features a freestanding tub and premium finishes, designed to feel like a personal spa. Mrs Sia said a spare bedroom became husband Marcus’ work-from-home office during Covid, and a portion of the master walk-in robe was reconfigured to create a fourth bedroom for their youngest son, Aiden. “We knew every inch of the floorplan,” she said. “We designed it ourselves and raised all three kids here — Paige, Riley, and Aiden. It’s emotional to be letting it go.” Natural light, spotted gum floors and double-glazed stacker doors enhance the flow to a sunny backyard and covered alfresco, while upstairs offers two separate living zones and a flexible family layout. Stone benches, quality appliances and a walk-in pantry complete the entertainer’s kitchen at 32A Windsor Ave. Buxton’s Peter Serafino said the level of finish was what was standing out to buyers Cooling price pressure boosts July rate cut chances Wed, 25 Jun 2025 06:56:59 +0000 Inflation eased further last month, bolstering the chance of an interest rate cut for households saddled with mortgages next month. The monthly consumer price index (CPI) indicator rose 2.1% during the year to May 2025, down from 2.4% in April, according to the latest data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS). Annual trimmed mean inflation, which was the Reserve Bank of Australia’s (RBA) preferred measure to look at, rose 2.4% in May, down from 2.8% in April. ABS head of prices statistics Michelle Marquardt said it was the lowest annual trimmed mean inflation rate since November 2021. The new figures show Australia was holding inflation within the RBA’s inflation target range of 2-3% in a shift that may influence the central bank’s board as it weighs up whether to hold or cut interest rates at its next meeting on July 8. Financial markets have put the chance of a 0.25% interest rate cut in July at about 89%, according to the ASX. The RBA has already cut interest rates by 0.25% in February and May this year, with the cash rate now sitting at 3.85%. RBA Governor Michele Bullock and the board will consider the latest CPI data, as they decide on next month's interest rate call. Picture: NewsWire / Nikki Short REA Group senior economist Anne Flaherty said the latest monthly CPI figures showed inflation was continuing to ease. “We saw both headline and underlying inflation come down over the month and that’s good news for households, but there has to be some caution in reading too much into these results because they are only a monthly indicator,” she said. “They're not the official CPI stats, but the fact that the indicator is showing signs that inflation is easing is pointing to an increased likelihood that where we will see a rate cut in July. “I think there's a pretty strong chance we will see a cut in July, and if not July, I think a good chance that it would be in August.” Slowing inflation has been a welcome change for households, who have seen the cost of living rise faster than wages over the past five years. REA Group senior economist Anne Flaherty said the latest monthly CPI figures showed inflation was continuing to ease. Picture: Supplied Australia’s cost of living had increased 21% during the five years to March 2025, while wages had only grown by 16%, Ms Flaherty said. Groceries and housing were the greatest contributors to the shift in the latest figures, according to the ABS. Annual inflation for food and non-alcoholic beverages rose 2.9% in May, down from 3.1% in April. Annual housing inflation rose 2% last month, down from 2.2% in April. Taking a closer look at housing, rents rose 4.5% in the 12 months to May, down from 5% in April, marking the lowest annual growth in rental prices since December 2022. New home prices rose 0.8%, down from a 1.2% rise in April, representing the smallest annual growth since April 2021, as project home builders offered discounts and promotional offers to entice business. Originally published on Mortgage Choice as Cooling price pressure boosts July rate cut chances. The post Cooling price pressure boosts July rate cut chances appeared first on realestate.com.au. Sites for 26,000 new homes revealed in ACT Wed, 25 Jun 2025 05:32:11 +0000 The territory government will release land for 26,000 homes over the next five years to meet housing targets. The ACT government is proposing to enable 30,000 new homes by 2030 under its National Housing Accord commitments and has laid out its strategy through the Housing Supply and Land Release program. Each year, alongside the release of the budget, the ACT government releases its five-year plan for the release of territory-owned land to meet growing population needs. Previously, this was known as a stand-alone publication called the Indicative Land Release Program, but now it forms part of the broader Housing Supply and Land Release Program. The ACT government will release territory-owned land to enable 26,000 homes. Picture: Getty The latest iteration lays out a plan to enable the construction of 25,948 new homes across the ACT by 2030 through residential land releases by the government. Of those homes, 23,569 are set to be part of multi-unit buildings and 2379 will be detached dwellings. This will account for a predicted population growth of an extra 47,872 people by 2030. ACT treasurer Chris Steel delivered the news in the state’s budget on 24 June, 2025. “Housing is a key priority for our government in the budget. These targets will be achieved through budget investment to build more social and affordable homes, undertaking the next stages of planning reform, further land release and investment in supporting infrastructure,” Mr Steel said. “We will continue to progress missing middle housing reforms, as well as supporting more well-located homes close to transport, services and jobs.” Which area will see the most building? The ACT is made up of nine districts and the state government has provided an indication of how much housing will be built in each one from territory-owned land releases. Molonglo Valley, east of Canberra, is the territory’s newest district and holds 3.4% of its total population with 16,026 people. Much of the district is still being developed with two new suburbs – Bandler and Sulman – announced last year. According to the ACT government, the district offers land that can cater to a range of housing types from multi-units to single dwellings to community housing. It is expected to see the most homes built off the back of land releases with 7612 in total over the next five years. Throughout the land release period, mixed-use and commercial sites will be also released for a community centre, schools and a childcare centre. The Molonglo Valley district is expected to see the most homes from the land releases. Picture: Getty Gungahlin, a district north of Canberra which holds 19.5% of the ACT’s population, is expected to see 3788 new homes from land releases. A new suburb called Kenny could supply 1800 to 2500 homes across two land release stages. Further sites will be released in Jacka and the Gungahlin town centre, which will include a build-to-rent project. Belconnen, the ACT’s most populated district with 108,403 people, could see 3298 new homes created across land releases at greenfield and urban infill sites. Land releases are planned for Macnamara across all five years of the program for residential development and sites will be released in Strathnairn to provide commercial offerings to the local community. Within the Belconnen town centre, there are plans for residential and mixed-use developments. Within the Inner North and City district, which has a population of roughly 66,000, 2192 homes are expected from urban infill sites close to existing and future light rail connections. The City Centre will also see land released in the south-east of Civic for a mixed-use development opportunity. The Inner South district will see 3130 dwellings created from land releases, including from mixed-use sites. According to the government, opportunities exist at the Kingston Foreshore, Kingston Arts precinct and East Lake. Woden Valley, south of Canberra, could see 3420 homes built through land releases. Infrastructure investment is expected to drive this development activity with projects such as the new Woden CIT Campus supporting up to 6500 students each year. Meanwhile, the extension of Canberra’s light rail line through to Woden could also provide for urban development potential along the corridor. Further south of Canberra is Tuggeranong, which will see 993 new homes built on land released in Gowrie and Richardson. Weston Creek, southwest of Canberra, could be home to 800 new dwellings over the next five years, starting with a community use site in Chapman. East Canberra, the territory’s smallest district which serves as mainly an industrial area, will see a small number of sites released in Oaks Estate for mixed-use and residential use. Are you looking to build in a land estate? Check out our New Homes section. The post Sites for 26,000 new homes revealed in ACT appeared first on realestate.com.au. Tasmanians turn against inner-city stadium. Should it be housing instead? Wed, 25 Jun 2025 05:13:52 +0000 A new poll shows that the majority of Tasmanians oppose the stadium proposed for Macquarie Point in Hobart. Alternative ideas for the site would devote much of the land to building homes. The Australia Institute has released the results of a new poll showing that more than two-thirds of Tasmanians feel the stadium deal is “unfair” and want Parliament to stand up to the AFL. A rendering of the proposed stadium, which would be home to the Tasmania Devils. Image: Macquarie Point Development Corporation According to the survey of 842 voters, 69% of respondents agreed that “The AFL is treating Tasmania unfairly in its requirements for granting Tasmania a license to join the national competition”. Of the respondents, 21% disagreed. Moreover, 69% also agreed with the statement that “the Tasmanian Parliament should renegotiate with the AFL to avoid building a new stadium,” while 27% disagreed. According to the breakdown, more Labor voters than Liberal voters had negative responses to the stadium plan. A site under scrutiny The stadium was first proposed in 2022, as the Tasmanian government entered talks with the AFL to establish a new team in Hobart. A stadium located at the Macquarie Point site became part of the agreement through the negotiation process. Controversy has courted the project since then. The site, which was once home to a gasworks as well as freight operations, was decommissioned and subject to a master-planning process in 2014-15 that would have seen the 9.3-hectare site developed into housing, commercial space, hospitality venues and community open space. But progress on the plans stalled, and then were shelved in favour of the stadium. In 2023, the stadium proposal was declared a project of state significance, meaning that it could bypass some of the local planning processes, with the decision ultimately placed in the hands of the Tasmanian Planning Commission. The project was a central theme in the 2024 state election, and has now become a hot button issue in the 2025 state election, which was called after premier Jeremy Rockliff faced a vote of no-confidence. Both the Labor and Liberal parties have committed to continuing with the stadium development after the election, rather than risking losing the AFL deal to bring a team to the state. The project is currently estimated to cost $945 million, with the majority to be financed by the state, with contributions from the federal government as well as the AFL. The inner-city site earmarked for the stadium was subject to an earlier master plan that would have incorporated housing. Image: Getty Is the stadium overshadowing the state’s need for housing? Leanne Minshull, strategy director at The Australia Institute, said that based on the results of the poll, it was clear “Whoever wins the state election on July 19 must stand up to the AFL and stand up for Tasmanians.” “This state deserves to have a team in the AFL, but Tassie taxpayers don’t want to be on the hook for a billion-dollar indoor stadium they don’t want.” Meanwhile, the Housing Industry Association (HIA) stressed that the stadium should not steal focus from the state’s housing issues at such a pivotal time as an election. HIA’s Tasmania executive director, Stuart Collins, commented: “It would be remiss of any party or candidate to focus solely on the stadium, when new housing is in such short supply and can help to create jobs and drive the economy”. “With Tasmania rock bottom on HIA’s Housing Scorecard… now is the time to release land, stimulate housing activity and slash red tape,” he added. The Tasmanian Liberal party has announced that if re-elected, the government will triple the current First Home Owners Grant to $30,000, reinstating it to previous levels. This government scheme is available to first-time buyers buying or building a new home. With Hobart in need of housing, some groups have suggested the inner-city site has more important uses. Image: Getty Alternative proposals preference housing With so much attention fixated on the inner-city site, opinions have been strong about how the space should be used. Two groups have put forward alternative proposals, both of which include housing. The Mac 2.0 Stadium Consortium, which is being promoted by former Tasmanian premier Paul Lennon, would still situate a stadium in the area but shift its location and make space for residential development, including social and affordable housing, as well as a private hospital. Estimated to cost over $2 billion, this plan is more than twice the cost of the current proposal. Meanwhile, the group Our Place, championed by former Tasmanian governor Kate Warner, has put forward a plan that nixes the stadium in favour of housing for over 2000 Tasmanians, and would see the creation of an Indigenous Truth and Reconciliation Park. Moreover, Greens senator for Tasmania Nick McKim has urged the federal government to redirect its $240 million commitment for the stadium towards housing instead. “Tasmanians need a roof over their heads, not a roofed stadium that will wreck Tasmania’s economy,” he said. Are you interested in hearing more about home building in Australia? Check out our dedicated New Homes section. The post Tasmanians turn against inner-city stadium. Should it be housing instead? appeared first on realestate.com.au. Guests ‘booted’ from luxe Venice hotel for Jeff Bezos’ wedding Wed, 25 Jun 2025 05:10:00 +0000 Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez are staying at the super luxe Aman Venice, and have reportedly rented the entire place for the stay. A spy told Page Six in advance of the couple’s arrival, “10 or 12 security guys were doing a sweep” through the luxury property “They were looking in cabinets and checking out the courtyard,” the insider said. A source said the scene in the lobby was “chaotic,” and they were asking people if they were staying at the hotel. An insider also told the outlet “guests who had previously booked [at] the hotel for Wednesday night a long time in advance were booted once Bezos rented the entire space a few months ago.” “Those guests are being moved to other hotels including the St. Regis,” the source said. “Aman is paying for their rooms in addition to comping a night of their stay and offering upgrades.” “Some are griping that they have to pack up, take transport [Aman provided] and unpack again.” MORE: Blow up over new Block amid Portelli sell off The game Royal kids are forbidden to play Ivanka’s shock $2b move amid Trump exit Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez are reportedly staying at the Aman Venice. Picture: Getty Images Guests were “booted” to make room for the couple arriving at the hotel. Picture: Getty Images According to Page Six, employees at the spot were talking about the upcoming festivities, and said spa workers were feeling “harried,” as they prepped for the “loads of extra work they have ahead of them from demanding A-list guests”. Sources told the publication there’s a wing of the hotel for celebs that’s hidden from photographers, and guests have included Kylie Jenner in the past. At other ritzy Venice spots, security was also being beefed up as A-listers arrived for Bezos and Sanchez’s opulent Italian wedding. The couple are set to wed this week and are celebrating with a handful of events. Picture: laurenwsanchez/Instagram They are said to be hosting multiple theme parties before their big day. Picture: laurenwsanchez/Instagram Seven Italian police officers were spotted inside the lobby of the luxe St. Regis Venice, where VIP wedding guests are said to be staying. An insider said guests checking in were asked to wait outside. “They were holding people at the door and one more cop was stationed outside,” the source said. “It seemed like maybe someone important was checking in. The manager was making sure that even those who had luggage had reservations. “One member of the family was let inside to check in while the others waited.” A source said the police presence was “not normal,” for the hotel, where rooms go for nearly $US2000 ($A3077) per night. The couple reportedly shifted the location of one of their wedding parties because of protesters. Picture: Getty Images for The Met Museum/Vogue Jared Kushner was photographed arriving at the St. Regis in Venice, Italy. Picture: Getty Images Another group who had lunch reservations at the spot’s restaurant, Gio’s, were also made to wait. Once inside, no celebs were spotted, though two anonymous men were being given a tour of the bar and first floor area. One local told Page Six they were surprised to see a boat filled with police out on the water. Reuters reported a wedding party for the power couple was “moved to an isolated, less accessible part of the lagoon city on security concerns and to prevent the risk of protests”. It is reported they had originally planned to hold the fête in Cannaregio, but changed plans in light of protests held by groups under the banner of “No space for Bezos,” who’ve threatened to throw themselves into canals and block streets to shut down the wedding due in protest of tourism. Then again, security is part of the Amazon billionaire’s daily life. Bezos reportedly spent $US1.6 million in 2023 on security, and he had $US180,000 bullet proof glass panels put into his office in 2019. High-profile guests expected at the wedding include Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner, Oprah Winfrey, Gayle King, Barbra Streisand and Leonardo DiCaprio, among others. Parts of this story first appeared in Page Six and was republished with permission. MORE: One detail makes home instantly ‘unsellable’ Fury over plans to revive ‘ghost town’ Swift’s neighbours lose it over ‘Taylor Tax’ The post Guests ‘booted’ from luxe Venice hotel for Jeff Bezos’ wedding appeared first on realestate.com.au. Where you can buy for less than Adelaide’s median house price Wed, 25 Jun 2025 04:50:00 +0000 Prospective buyers looking for an affordable home don’t have to narrow their search to Adelaide’s northern suburbs. Latest PropTrack data shows there are options right across the city with the same or a lower median house price than Greater Adelaide’s, which is $835,000. Mount Barker was the cheapest Hills suburb, with a median house price of $730,000, followed by Lobethal ($740,000), Meadows ($747,000), Nairne ($777,500) and Balhannah ($800,000). South of the city, Hackham West was the most affordable at $625,000, while Dover Gardens was at the higher end with a median on par with Adelaide’s. MORE: The trend SA homeowners are abandoning Adelaide’s southern suburbs offer affordable options. Picture: Brenton Edwards The O’Sullivan Beach house at 26 Baden Tce sold for $737,000 in May. Meanwhile, Woodville Gardens had the lowest median house price in the west at $550,000, with Port Adelaide ($665,000) and Taperoo ($682,745) rounding out the region’s top three. Harris Real Estate Wine Coast agent Sam Bennett said the more affordable southern suburbs were slightly further inland but the beach was still only minutes away. “There are lots of people who would love to be on the beach side but they’re getting priced out,” he said. “For example, a lot of the people who would love to be in Christies Beach are getting priced out of there a bit, but you go one street over and you’ve got Christie Downs. “There is a lot more development happening in Christie Downs as well. “First-home buyers, for example, they can get a new home in Christie Downs.” Mr Bennett said the lifestyle on offer in Adelaide’s southern suburbs also made them appealing. “That’s where the closest beach that has surf is, it’s also where the closest beach that you can drive onto is,” he said. MORE: SA’s ‘supercharged’ hotspots revealed Woodville Gardens is Adelaide’s west has a median house price of $550,000. The Rosewater house at 24 Tapp St recently sold for $700,000. Mr Bennett said the expressway has also made it much more accessible, while fewer traffic lights further south made local travel easier. Meanwhile, Ray White Port Adelaide principal Nick Psarros said there were also plenty of options in the city’s west. From older homes on large blocks in suburbs like Ottoway to new houses in transitioning areas like Woodville Gardens and Gillman, Ms Psarros said the area offered a mix of properties. He said proximity to both the city and the sea made the region appealing. “People like the west – they like the feel, there are lots of little coffee shops everywhere, it’s easy to get around,” he said. “It’s very streamlined and nothing is too far. “In 15 minutes you can get from one place to the other easily.” Where you can buy for Adelaide median price or less North Elizabeth North – $496,000 Elizabeth South – $510,000 Elizabeth Grove – $522,000 Davoren Park – $525,000 Smithfield Plains – $530,000 Elizabeth Downs – $531,750 Elizabeth Park – $540,000 Smithfield – $550,000 Elizabeth East – $550,000 Eyre – $555,000 Munno Para – $570,000 Elizabeth – $585,000 Evanston – $590,000 Salisbury North – $598,000 Evanston Gardens – $600,000 Andrews Farm – $600,100 Willaston – $602,500 Gawler West – $625,000 Munno Para West – $626,600 Elizabeth Vale – $629,500 Brahma Lodge – $630,000 Blakeview – $635,000 Evanston South – $635,000 Craigmore – $635,000 Salisbury Downs – $650,000 Direk – $652,500 Salisbury Plain – $652,500 Munno Para Downs – $653,750 Gawler South – $655,000 Burton – $660,000 Paralowie – $660,753 Salisbury East – $670,000 Salisbury – $675,500 Para Hills West – $690,000 Evanston Park – $690,000 Salisbury Park – $690,000 Gawler East – $694,000 Para Hills – $702,000 Hillbank – $712,000 Kilburn – $715,000 Parafield Gardens – $715,000 Surrey Downs – $716,000 Gawler – $724,500 Ingle Farm – $725,000 Para Vista – $725,000 Redwood Park – $744,250 Pooraka – $746,000 Modbury North – $746,250 Virginia – $748,750 Ridgehaven – $749,500 Banksia Park – $750,000 Lightsview – $758,250 Modbury – $760,000 Gilles Plains – $770,000 Hewett – $772,500 Wasleys – $775,000 Mawson Lakes – $775,000 Holden Hill – $780,000 Valley View – $780,000 St Agnes – $785,000 Vista – $787,500 Fairview Park – $790,000 Hillcrest – $795,750 Angle Vale – $797,000 Salisbury Heights – $798,000 Modbury Heights – $800,000 Blair Athol – $805,000 Roseworthy – $809,000 Wynn Vale – $810,000 Hope Valley – $810,000 Two Wells – $822,500 Buckland Park – $827,500 Northfield – $832,500 Windsor Gardens – $835,000 South Hackham West – $625,000 Christie Downs – $640,000 Huntfield Heights – $658,000 Hackham – $666,000 Tonsley – $668,750 O’Sullivan Beach – $680,750 Morphett Vale – $689,000 Reynella – $707,000 Noarlunga Downs – $728,000 Seaford Meadows – $730,000 Sellicks Beach – $733,000 Aldinga Beach – $752,000 Seaford Rise – $760,000 Old Noarlunga – $760,000 Old Reynella – $765,000 Trott Park – $767,500 Christies Beach – $770,000 Christies Beach – $770,000 Seaford – $775,000 Reynella East – $781,000 Woodcroft – $786,750 Seaford Heights – $790,000 Happy Valley – $795,000 O’Halloran Hill – $799,500 Aldinga – $800,000 Maslin Beach – $801,250 Seacombe Gardens – $810,000 Sturt – $815,555 Port Willunga – $820,000 Ascot Park – $823,000 Sheidow Park – $835,000 Dover Gardens – $835,000 West Woodville Gardens – $550,000 Port Adelaide – $665,000 Taperoo – $682,745 Ottoway – $702,500 St Clair – $710,000 Peterhead – $724,000 Angle Park – $738,500 Rosewater – $740,000 Osborne – $762,500 Devon Park – $766,000 Woodville North – $773,000 Mansfield Park – $775,500 Ferryden Park – $785,000 Athol Park – $800,000 Ethelton – $800,000 Pennington – $800,500 Brompton – $815,000 Royal Par – k$817,500 West Richmond – $817,500 Glanville – $821,000 Beverley – $832,500 New Port – $832,500 Largs North – $835,000 Central and Hills Mount Barker – $730,000 Lobethal – $740,000 Meadows – $747,000 Nairne – $777,500 Balhannah – $800,000 Source: PropTrack The post Where you can buy for less than Adelaide’s median house price appeared first on realestate.com.au. The Block 2025: Fans slam new trailer over ‘irresponsible’ detail Wed, 25 Jun 2025 03:15:00 +0000 Fans of The Block have slammed the trailer for the new 2025 series over an “irresponsible” detail in the clip. The hit renovation show is expected to air in August on Channel 9, with this year’s contestants building homes from scratch in the regional Victoria town of Daylesford. In the teaser, hosts Scott Cam and Shelley Craft are “back on the road” each driving a big red truck on route to the new countryside location. The trailer also featured a sneak peek of the teams competing – which include Emma and Ben, Cam and Han, Robby and Mat, Alicia and Sonny and Britt and Taz. MORE: Portelli sells entire Block after dud stunt Hidden deal: Hollywood secretly pays Royals Swift’s neighbours lose it over ‘Taylor Tax’ The new trailer for The Block has dropped. Picture: Instagram/The Block But, fans of the series lashed out over the detail that Scott was not wearing a seatbelt while driving the truck. “Probably should have put ya seatbelts on,” one viewer wrote. “Why aren’t they wearing their seatbelts, Nine?”, another person questioned. “How irresponsible of Channel 9 to advertise in prime time, showing celebrities driving on country roads and not wearing seatbelts,” a third person commented. Some viewers were convinced the scene was generated using CGI. “They’re not actually driving … watch the windows on the driver’s side same scenery,” one fan wrote. “It’s obviously CGI,” another person added. Scott is not wearing a seatbelt while driving a truck. Picture: Instagram/The Block The news comes as Adrian Portelli is selling off his entire Block compound at Phillip Island months after snapping up all five homes on the hit renovation show. The billionaire businessman posted on Instagram, begging fans to take all the properties off his hands. He put out a call for expressions of interest in making the multimillion-dollar purchase. “For Sale. EOI. The Phillip Island Block Resort. Selling complex complete. Everything included. Will not sell houses separately,” Portelli posted. Adrian Portelli is selling off his entire Block compound at Phillip Island. Picture: NewsWire/ David Crosling The billionaire businessman posted on Instagram, begging fans to take all the properties off his hands. Picture: Supplied/Instagram During last year’s The Block grand final, the Aussie entrepreneur made history when he bought every single house for a whopping $15.03 million. It turned out the regular Block bidder used a buyer’s agent for some to cover his tracks. Portelli announced he was done with The Block and would not be in the market for Block properties in 2025. “That was a message that was my last appearance on the Block and I thought I’d go out with a bang,” he says. While he may have gone out with a bang, fans of the show weren’t thrilled with the finale, with many getting on to call the show “rigged”, and lament that Portelli just chose who he wanted to win. MORE: One detail makes home instantly ‘unsellable’ Fury over plans to revive ‘ghost town’ ‘Unhinged’: Shark Tank star’s tactics exposed The post The Block 2025: Fans slam new trailer over ‘irresponsible’ detail appeared first on realestate.com.au. Plenty of great designers agree that the Swedish giant goes beyond "beginner" furnishings and tasty meatballs. Plenty of them even have @IKEA pieces displayed in their own homes. Head to the link in bio to check out the many ways these experts style #IKE Wed, 25 Jun 2025 01:54:07 +0000 Plenty of great designers agree that the Swedish giant goes beyond "beginner" furnishings and tasty meatballs. Plenty of them even have @IKEA pieces displayed in their own homes. Head to the link in bio to check out the many ways these experts style #IKEA furniture—from kitchen cabinets they’ve customized to outdoor furniture they’ve relocated numerous times. Plenty of great designers agree that the Swedish giant goes beyond "beginner" furnishings and tasty meatballs. Plenty of them even have @IKEA pieces displayed in their own homes. Head to the link in bio to check out the many ways these experts style #IKE Wed, 25 Jun 2025 01:54:06 +0000 Plenty of great designers agree that the Swedish giant goes beyond "beginner" furnishings and tasty meatballs. Plenty of them even have @IKEA pieces displayed in their own homes. Head to the link in bio to check out the many ways these experts style #IKEA furniture—from kitchen cabinets they’ve customized to outdoor furniture they’ve relocated numerous times. Plenty of great designers agree that the Swedish giant goes beyond "beginner" furnishings and tasty meatballs. Plenty of them even have @IKEA pieces displayed in their own homes. Head to the link in bio to check out the many ways these experts style #IKE Wed, 25 Jun 2025 01:54:06 +0000 Plenty of great designers agree that the Swedish giant goes beyond "beginner" furnishings and tasty meatballs. Plenty of them even have @IKEA pieces displayed in their own homes. Head to the link in bio to check out the many ways these experts style #IKEA furniture—from kitchen cabinets they’ve customized to outdoor furniture they’ve relocated numerous times. Plenty of great designers agree that the Swedish giant goes beyond "beginner" furnishings and tasty meatballs. Plenty of them even have @IKEA pieces displayed in their own homes. Head to the link in bio to check out the many ways these experts style #IKE Wed, 25 Jun 2025 01:54:05 +0000 Plenty of great designers agree that the Swedish giant goes beyond "beginner" furnishings and tasty meatballs. Plenty of them even have @IKEA pieces displayed in their own homes. Head to the link in bio to check out the many ways these experts style #IKEA furniture—from kitchen cabinets they’ve customized to outdoor furniture they’ve relocated numerous times.

Latest Real Estate News

Mastering Seller Expectations, Systems, and Self-Care

Where heritage meets flexibility: A home blueprint for balanced living

Space to enjoy

Effortless luxury

Quality in design is quality living

2 Steps to Cultivate Happiness

Gallery walls can be a showstopping feature in a home, but they can be very tricky to get right. What's the right spacing? Do smaller pieces belong on the inside or outside of the composition? Is it better to use matching or mismatched frames? With the wr

Gallery walls can be a showstopping feature in a home, but they can be very tricky to get right. What's the right spacing? Do smaller pieces belong on the inside or outside of the composition? Is it better to use matching or mismatched frames? With the wr

Gallery walls can be a showstopping feature in a home, but they can be very tricky to get right. What's the right spacing? Do smaller pieces belong on the inside or outside of the composition? Is it better to use matching or mismatched frames? With the wr

Gallery walls can be a showstopping feature in a home, but they can be very tricky to get right. What's the right spacing? Do smaller pieces belong on the inside or outside of the composition? Is it better to use matching or mismatched frames? With the wr

Gallery walls can be a showstopping feature in a home, but they can be very tricky to get right. What's the right spacing? Do smaller pieces belong on the inside or outside of the composition? Is it better to use matching or mismatched frames? With the wr

Gallery walls can be a showstopping feature in a home, but they can be very tricky to get right. What's the right spacing? Do smaller pieces belong on the inside or outside of the composition? Is it better to use matching or mismatched frames? With the wr

Gallery walls can be a showstopping feature in a home, but they can be very tricky to get right. What's the right spacing? Do smaller pieces belong on the inside or outside of the composition? Is it better to use matching or mismatched frames? With the wr

“We call it a small big house,” says designer Katie Hodges. Inspired by the subdued glamour of the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, she embarked on a two-plus year renovation with one longtime creative collaborator: her husband. The result? A sweet family home

“We call it a small big house,” says designer Katie Hodges. Inspired by the subdued glamour of the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, she embarked on a two-plus year renovation with one longtime creative collaborator: her husband. The result? A sweet family home

“We call it a small big house,” says designer Katie Hodges. Inspired by the subdued glamour of the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, she embarked on a two-plus year renovation with one longtime creative collaborator: her husband. The result? A sweet family home

“We call it a small big house,” says designer Katie Hodges. Inspired by the subdued glamour of the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, she embarked on a two-plus year renovation with one longtime creative collaborator: her husband. The result? A sweet family home

“We call it a small big house,” says designer Katie Hodges. Inspired by the subdued glamour of the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, she embarked on a two-plus year renovation with one longtime creative collaborator: her husband. The result? A sweet family home

Here's a foolproof guide to tell the design styles apart.

Big bank exec reveals Aus hottest housing markets

10 hottest regional markets so far in 2025:

Poo piles galore: TikTok star uncovers backyard horror

Power shift: Renters afraid to speak up as landlords hold the cards

Think twice before you put that stone yard ornament in the giveaway pile.

Laser giving ‘superhero vision’ following natural disasters

Rent crisis: Aussies paying people to attend inspections

Designers love this creative way to add texture and pattern.

Why RBA rate cut hopes won’t help everyone

Ex-Goldman Sachs chair snaps up $14.5m Portsea mansion

Tanked: Where Brisbane’s affordable, liveable suburbs are now

Hobart rental prices are stable or growing

Zac Homes boss lists $7.5m beachfront penthouse

Enviable views make Hahndorf home stand out

Auctions ramping up across SA before a lull

Roosters star’s massive money move

‘Slippery slope’: Low FHB deposits spark NINJA loan fears

Former Indy boss John Cowley selling luxury apartment

$2b housing gamble to stop homelessness crisis

Queensland’s homelessness snapshot:

What to do if you miss a mortgage repayment

Mount Waverley luxe designer home hits market

Cooling price pressure boosts July rate cut chances

Sites for 26,000 new homes revealed in ACT

Which area will see the most building?

Tasmanians turn against inner-city stadium. Should it be housing instead?

A site under scrutiny

Is the stadium overshadowing the state’s need for housing?

Alternative proposals preference housing

Guests ‘booted’ from luxe Venice hotel for Jeff Bezos’ wedding

Where you can buy for less than Adelaide’s median house price

Where you can buy for Adelaide median price or less

North

South

West

Central and Hills

The Block 2025: Fans slam new trailer over ‘irresponsible’ detail

Plenty of great designers agree that the Swedish giant goes beyond "beginner" furnishings and tasty meatballs. Plenty of them even have @IKEA pieces displayed in their own homes. Head to the link in bio to check out the many ways these experts style #IKE

Plenty of great designers agree that the Swedish giant goes beyond "beginner" furnishings and tasty meatballs. Plenty of them even have @IKEA pieces displayed in their own homes. Head to the link in bio to check out the many ways these experts style #IKE

Plenty of great designers agree that the Swedish giant goes beyond "beginner" furnishings and tasty meatballs. Plenty of them even have @IKEA pieces displayed in their own homes. Head to the link in bio to check out the many ways these experts style #IKE

Plenty of great designers agree that the Swedish giant goes beyond "beginner" furnishings and tasty meatballs. Plenty of them even have @IKEA pieces displayed in their own homes. Head to the link in bio to check out the many ways these experts style #IKE

Effortless luxury 

Quality in design is quality living 