Real Estate & Investment News in Australia from Propertyshowrooms.com

Brisbane a hot tip for Australian property investors

Mon, 21 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Brisbane has been highlighted as a good place to buy real estate.

Residex has advised investors to consider purchasing property in Brisbane following the decision by the Reserve Bank of Australia to reduce interest rates by 0.5 per cent at its May Board Meeting.

The independent provider of real estate information in Australia said that, despite this, conditions in the housing sector are continuing to improve.

Chief executive officer and founder of Residex John Edwards said Brisbane's property, in particular, is faring well.

"It seems to us that by September, or perhaps even a little earlier, we will be able to report growth in this market again," Mr Edwards stated.

He remarked that rental yields for houses in this city are 5.1 per cent, adding Brisbane's market is "worth exploring for bargains and future quality returns".

His comments follow results from the Rismark Home Value Index, which revealed earlier this month that small rental increases were recorded in Brisbane between April 2011 and the same month in 2012.

Australian mining towns 'top target for property investment'

Wed, 9 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The cost of buying properties in Australia's mining towns is making them a popular target among investors.

This is the opinion of Brett Alegre-Wood, founder of Your Property Club and an investor himself, who explained "affordability is going up" in these settlements, which has resulted in "huge" demand for homes in these areas.

He added there are still viable opportunities to be found in large cities such as Melbourne and Sydney, but stressed it is important to take a long-term view when purchasing real estate in such areas.

According to the Housing Industry Association (HIA) and JELD-WEN Population and Residential Building Report published last month, Victoria is the place to watch.

Nine of the top 20 hotspots identified by the research were in the state, with Whittlesea North, Wyndham South and Cardinia - Pakenham taking second, third and fifth positions respectively.

The HIA figures are based on the value of the building work approved in these areas, as well as the population growth recorded.

Brits 'top investors in Australian real estate'

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

British investors ploughed more money into the Australian real estate sector than any other nationality of overseas financiers in 2010-11.

This is the finding of the latest annual report published by the country's Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB). According to the organisation, investors from the UK spent AU$4.61 billion (£2.94 billion) on property in Australia during this period.

Chinese buyers were the next most active group, followed by purchasers from the US, the study added.

The FIRB publication also revealed the largest proportion of foreign investment in real estate was spent in the state of Victoria, which attracted AU$11.23 billion in funds. New South Wales (NSW) was second on the list, with AU$7.61 billion spent here.

In the recent Property Industry Confidence Survey, conducted by the Property Council of Australia and ANZ, sentiment surrounding the NSW real estate market improved for the June quarter.

Head of property research at ANZ Paul Braddick explained a number of factors are working together to make the state more attractive to investors, with rental growth and improved housing affordability contributing to the uplift in confidence.

Australia's top property investment locations revealed

Tue, 6 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

A table of the most attractive Australian regions for real estate investment has been published in this month's edition of Australian Property Investor magazine.

Reporting on the research, AAP noted Gladstone in Queensland and Hedland in Western Australia are among the hotspots to watch in 2012.

Among the reasons for Gladstone's popularity are low vacancy rates and strong rents, while attractive rental yields in Hedland have helped boost its appeal among those seeking real estate in Australia.

Co-author of the study Laura Cross told the news provider: "The experts widely name Queensland and Western Australia as likely to be the standout performers, largely due to the resources boom and the fact they've had weaker performing capital cities over the past few years."

According to the Gladstone Region Economic Development Strategy to 2030, the area's focus will be on fostering growth within local businesses and industries, with particular emphasis on the retail and service sectors, as well as agriculture.

The report added Gladstone's appeal for investors will be enhanced by its "lifestyle attributes", such as its quality education system, rural areas and community services.

"Now is a good time" to enter the Australian property market

Thu, 3 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Investors considering buying residential real estate in Australia have been advised that current market conditions make dwellings in the nation attractive.

Chief executive officer of the Association of International Property Professionals Professor Mark Sharp stated: "Now is a good time when interest rates remain low and property prices are not rising as far as they were."

He explained that the exchange rate between the Australian dollar and sterling enhances the country's appeal for British buyers.

Mr Sharp suggested focusing on urban locations in the search for a property in Australia, as the real estate market in these parts of the country continues to be "buoyant".

He noted in particular that central business districts in major cities will always be popular, drawing in companies as well as clients, with workers living on the outskirts of the area.

Last month, Liz Rowlinson, editor of A Place in the Sun magazine, claimed that Perth, Victoria and New South Wales are, at present, among the most popular destinations for Brits seeking a home in Australia.

More deals for Sydney offices concluded

Wed, 2 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

There has been a rise in the level of activity in office markets in Sydney's central business district (CBD), new research shows.

According to a report by Savills, there was a significant increase in investment volumes in this sector of the market during the third quarter of 2011.

The firm revealed that AU$1.07 billion (£701.3 million) was transacted during this period, matching the figures recorded for the 12 months to June this year.

Managing director of Savills in New South Wales Michael Andrews commented: "Evidence of a recovery of the Sydney CBD office market can be seen in recent rental growth, as well as a surge in office sales following the end of the June quarter."

Mr Andrews added that approximately 85 per cent of the deals recently conducted were with foreign buyers.

Last month, QBE Lender's Mortgage Insurance published research which suggested that Sydney's housing market is going to see values rise.

According to the organisation, residential property price rises of between 19 and 20 per cent is expected in the city over the three years leading up to June 2014.

Positive outlook predicted for Australian property sector

Thu, 13 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT

A new report published by QBE Lender's Mortgage Insurance (LMI) has suggested that the Australian housing market will perform well over the next few years.

The research, which was prepared by BIS Shrapnel, has predicted strong price increases for residential properties in Perth and Sydney, while many other cities in the nation are also expected to experience capital value growth.

While Perth and Sydney are expected to be the top performers with price rises of between 19 and 20 per cent by June 2014, Brisbane and Darwin are not far behind, with their properties set to see 16 per cent and 17 per cent value growth respectively.

Ian Graham, chief executive officer of QBE LMI, stated that his firm is "cautiously optimistic" about Australia's housing sector.

He added: "The ongoing resource demand from Asia should continue to ensure growth in the resource and private sector, with conditions for a significant correction over the forecast period to 2014 just not there."

Earlier this month, the Colliers International 2011 Global Investor Sentiment Survey revealed that Australian real estate investors are likely to focus on their domestic markets, rather than looking overseas.

Domestic focus for Australian investors

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Property investors in Australia are going to concentrate on expanding their portfolios with domestic assets, rather than venturing overseas, according to a new study.

The Colliers International 2011 Global Investor Sentiment Survey found that those active in the Australian real estate sector are now more risk-averse than they were six months previously.

Nerida Conisbee, director of research at the firm, commented: "The survey has shown the majority of Australian investors now see overseas markets as too risky at present, given economic conditions in major financial markets."

However, managing director of investment services and chairman of global investment services John Marasco noted that sentiment about the domestic market is "upbeat", with 60 per cent of respondents stating that they are intending to increase the number of assets they hold over the next six months.

He added that Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane are top locations among investors, with offices set to be the major target.

Last month, Savills revealed that central business district offices in Melbourne have experienced annual capital growth of 24 per cent so far this year, while rental income is up by an average of ten per cent on a yearly basis.

Getting Rich with Investing in Property

Thu, 7 Jul 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Property investment is one of the opportunities most people would like to venture in, however, it is not wise to get in blindly without conducting a proper research of the investment conditions. Proper research and consultations with experts in this respectful field can get anyone rich with investing in property in the end.

Investing big money is not a game and the whole process needs to be thought over in detail. There are many considerations to be made before making any property investment decision due to the risks involved, the prevailing economic situations also play a major role during your investment property decisions.

Investment property, besides the fact that it is considered less risky than shares; it has two major advantages that attract most investors. Most people use borrowed money to fund their investment ideas. There is usually a tax benefit associated with negative gearing in the property market. Negative gearing occurs when the rental income is lower than the interest on loan and the cost of your property maintenance. This takes the taxable income to a lower bracket, thus saving a lot on tax, which contributes greatly to the income generated by investment property.

Besides the rental income and tax benefits, there is usually another advantage under Capital growth in the property investment market. Capital growth can help investors get rich with investing in property since they can use the window of opportunity that comes with investment property and capital growth. Every investor needs to use that advantage. Owners can use this to borrow for further property investments or developments that better their lives. Using expert advice can help you reap maximum gains since they know the best indicators for capital growth in the realty market.

One cannot be superficial when making decisions about investing in property. Investment property decisions require some other considerations like the location, which should provide for an environment for growth and development. Buying away from your home also helps make your decision easier when it comes to buying and selling. Sentimental attachment can affect some of your decisions. This comes in handy because sometimes people are forced to sell their properties quickly to alleviate the risk of decreasing property value. Some properties are easier to manage, especially apartments when compared to single houses since there are some shared benefits like maintenance costs and many more.

Sometimes property investment can demand a lot of your time, this should not deter any interested party since there are property management services that can ensure your capital venture succeeds at very affordable prices. It is always advisable to hire a firm which will provide an investor with a serious help thus helping them with all the details and points that must be taken care of and mustn’t be forgotten when investing in property.. This not only eases stress from you, but also exposes you to better management and information from experts who have first hand information in the realty market.

Article written and supplied by Anna K.

Anna K. is a journalist from Brisbane, Australia. She writes for several blogs about finance topics such as real estate, insurance and several others which attract attention of many readers.

Australian property is 'a stable investment'

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Property investors looking for strong, consistent performance from their portfolios should consider investing in Australian property.

According to recent research from MoneyCorp, Australian property is a top choice for British investors for a number of reasons.

The firm claims that the clement weather, the Australian lifestyle and the country's stable economic outlook during the recent global downturn have all played a part in Australia's strong property performance.

Commenting on the pros and cons of investing in Australian property, Shelter Offshore said: "Property in Australia does not constitute a bargain in relative terms - however, it can represent a good, solid long-term buy if researched well.

"Location is an important consideration as is over supply - but for Brits also thinking of moving to Australia, buying a home there is almost a no brainer."

Australia's Bureau of Statistics recently published figures showing that average property prices in the country have risen by 20 per cent in the past year.

First-time buyers looking at property investment abroad

Thu, 12 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMT

One in four first-time buyers are looking invest their cash in overseas property rather than homes in the UK, according to new research.

A study commissioned by Moneycorp highlighted that vitality in the market has put 34 per cent of buyers off UK property, with many looking to countries with stronger economies, such as Australia, instead.

David Kerns, money-dealing manager at Moneycorp, told the Telegraph: "This is due in part to the high costs of UK housing, which has recovered over 12 per cent since the lows seen in 2008, making it far harder to get onto the UK property ladder."

Recent research from Standard Life found that older Brits are also looking at property investment overseas, with many people choosing to retire abroad.

In particular, Spain was a firm favourite with over 65s due to its warm climate, while France, the US, Canada and New Zealand were also selected as retirement hotspots.

West Australia 'great destination for those looking to invest in property'

Mon, 2 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Those looking for property in Australia should look to the country's west, an expert has advised.

Ben Briggs, brand manager at Austravel, has highlighted the fact that while luxury is not always something associated with the country, it actually offers top-end accommodation and excursions.

He explained: "Western Australia is Australia's best kept secret and therefore relatively undiscovered compared to the east coast."

Some of its key features include the area's stunning locations, space and silence, which he praised as being fantastic.

Mr Briggs added: "Western Australia is full of extraordinary landscapes and unique experiences."

Attractions in the area include the Ningaloo Reef, Margaret River, the area's wine and Broome's Cable Beach. The quietness of the area and the ability to drive for hours without seeing another person is another fantastic draw, he claimed.

Recent figures published by STR Global found that the area is becoming increasingly popular among tourists, with an occupancy rise of 8.4 per cent year-on-year in June.

Australian property investments 'offer great after-tax returns'

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Property investment in Australia could be a great option for those looking to maximise their after-tax returns, it has been claimed.

James Dunn, writing for the Australian, has asserted that a ten-year comparison has shown that residential property has bested shares at both the highest and lowest marginal tax rates.

Michael Yardney, an industry expert, told the news provider that property is particularly useful as it has a low level of volatility.

He said: "Historically, well-located properties double in value every eight to ten years, with an average capital growth of eight to ten per cent a year, and rental yield of around four to five per cent a year."

Mr Yardney added that those looking to leverage their investments also stand to benefit due to banks' willingness to offer better loan deals for this type of investment, meaning that it can outperform shares.

Australian Property Monitors economist Matthew Bell recently suggest that Melbourne, Australia offers investors one of the best performing markets over the last 12 months.

Low interest rates 'make Australian property affordable'

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

While other economies have struggled during the recession, Australia's has remained resilient, keeping its housing market strong while others have floundered.

According to a report by the Sydney Morning Herald, Australia's low interest rates mean that housing in the country has remained affordable to many, leading to the Reserve Bank raising rates six times since October 2009.

However, despite the market remaining strong at the present moment, property investors are watching Australia's housing market carefully.

Banking analyst Brian Johnson said he believed rising interest rates would bring the Australian market more into line with the rest of the world and said it was not without risk.

The news comes as figures from the UK house price index from the Department of Communities and Local Government indicates that UK house prices are once again on the rise, meaning the market is 11 per cent above where it was this time last year. The report also showed that during May the number of mortgage completions increased.

Individuals becoming 'more selective' as Australian property market cools

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Individuals looking to invest in Australian real estate may be interested to learn that the latest figures concerning the market indicate that there has been a decline in sales within major cities.

According to Australian Property Monitors, residential sales are now significantly lower than they were at the same time last year.

The statistics show that prominent cities within the country such as Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Adelaide are no longer attracting the high level of interest which they once were.

National property consultant Damian Kininmonth, from Preston Rowe Paterson, said that the slowdown was a result of buyers becoming more selective.

"Obviously there were large volumes being transacted earlier in the year and people were really keen to get into the market," he added.

"But with the rising of interest rates, people are becoming more selective with their properties."

The latest RP data-Rismark Hedonic Home Value Index has shown that price rises in major cities in Australia are slowing and the number of new properties being sold is at a three-month low.

UK first-time buyers look to overseas property markets

Wed, 7 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

An increasing number of first-time buyers in the UK are being drawn to the overseas property market amid concerns of inflated prices for real estate in their home country.

New research, conducted by Moneycorp, has revealed that young buyers trying to take their first steps on the housing ladder are increasingly looking overseas for a more affordable alternative.

The firm found that the most popular destination for Brits was Australia, with its strong currency and growing economy encouraging property buyers to look for real estate down under.

"Despite turbulent economic times our report shows that a staggering one in four first-time buyers are still considering investing in overseas property at the moment," says, Moneycorp private client dealing manager, David Kerns.

"When looking to buy property overseas almost one third of first-time buyers consider currency to be of top priority. While the pound is currently rallying at a 19-month high, it has been a bumpy couple of years."

According to the latest Knight Frank property price index, Australia has enjoyed a 20 per cent price increase in the last year.

Slowdown in Australian property market allays fears of bubble forming

Fri, 2 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

News that the Australian property market is showing signs of slowing has been welcomed by many real estate commentators.

According to the latest figures from the DP data-Rismark Hedonic Home Value Index, price rises in major cities down under are slowing and the number of new properties being sold has reached a three-month low.

The slowdown has been generally met with relief by many industry experts who feared that the country could be heading towards a property bubble.

House values in Australia rose by only 0.5 per cent during May and this follows 16 months of strong price growth, with year-on-year prices in capital cities up by 12.1 per cent.

"This second consecutive month of single digit annualised gains sends a signal that the double digit growth rates recorded since January 2009 are behind us," said, RP Data's director of research, Tim Lawless.

Australia was ranked fourth on the Global Property Guide's list of worldwide markets posting the strongest price increases.

Real estate buyers may wish to consider transparent Australia

Fri, 25 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Those thinking of investing in property abroad may wish to consider Australia as the country is the best in terms of providing clear and comprehensive access to data, it has been suggested.

According to the new Jones Lang LaSalle 2010 Global Transparency Index, Australian investors had greater access to fundamental market information than any other nation.

The survey looked into a country's transparency based on five areas, with performance measurement and market fundamentals also among them.

It was determined that those buying property in Australia would find it easier to locate data regarding rents, prices and valuations, with those countries providing the best transparency being the most likely to register greater growth and recovery.

The report said: "The last two years demonstrate how high levels of transparency certainly do not eliminate risks for investors or occupiers.

"However, the real value of transparency should become evident when comparing how quickly markets are able to open up again after a financial crisis."

Meanwhile, real estate transparency continues to improve in the majority of markets, with countries including Turkey and Portugal seeing growth.

Australia is one of the most popular countries among travelling Brits because of a shared language and good weather all-year around, ABTA - The Travel Association noted earlier this year.

Australian property market is 'one of the best-performing in the world'

Tue, 22 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Individuals looking for property in Australia may be encouraged to hear that the country has one of the best-performing property markets in the world.

According to the latest Knight Frank price index, the country has been enjoying a 20 per cent price increase over the course of the last year.

This increase was a result of low interest rates, the government's first-time buyer grant and population growth.

Knight Frank rated Australia as the fourth best real estate market for price growth, coming behind China, Hong Kong and Singapore.

"With interest rates now rising, the government withdrawing stimulus and the supply response picking up, we expect house prices to slow over the next six to nine months," Liam Bailey, head of residential research at the estate agent, explained.

Figures for the country's price growth were taken from data provided by the Australian Bureau of Statistics.

The latest Residential Property Prospects Report from BIS Shrapnel has suggested that real estate values in the country are likely to begin to level off.

New rules for overseas investment in Australia

Wed, 28 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Individuals looking for property down under may be affected by tighter rules to govern investment in the country.

Surging prices and an increasing number of overseas buyers has meant that the government has decided to bring in new regulations to control the system.

The new rules mean that any temporary residents buying real estate must gain permission and if they decide to leave Australia they will be forced to sell their property.

In addition, foreigners investing from abroad will be limited to buying only new properties.

However, concerns have been raised over the fact that local Australians are being priced out of the property market.

"We want to make sure that foreign speculators are not going to force up prices for Australians seeking to, buy their first home and we think this is the right course of action," prime minister Kevin Rudd confirmed.

The rules were originally relaxed back in 2008 in an attempt to coax overseas investors to the country and help lift the property market.

According to the Residential Development Council in Australia, prices in the country will continue to rise due to a shortage in demand for new builds and land.

Australian property prices to increase for the next 'five to ten years'

Tue, 23 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Prices in the Australian property market will continued to appreciate due to a shortage in demand for new builds and land, it has been claimed.

The cost of residential housing down under is likely to remain on an upward curve as demand for property soars amid a shortfall of new builds within the country.

According to Caryn Kakas, executive director of the Residential Development Council in Australia, the only way to reverse the trend would be to build more houses.

She claimed that in order to keep up with demand a total of 150,000 properties needed to be built each year.

Ms Kakas continued: "The only way to stem the increase in home prices is to meet the backlog. That's going to take at least five to ten years. We're going to continue to see price growth in the market."

The latest RP Data-Rismark National Home Value Index demonstrated an average increase of 1.8 per cent in property vales across the country during February.

AFG mortgage index: Investment-based home loans at their highest level ever

Mon, 22 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Australia saw a rise in the number of individuals getting approval for home loans for investment purposes during February, defying many analysts who claim that the property market is "experiencing the formation of a bubble".

The AFG mortgage index has recorded the highest level of investment interest in its history, with 34.1 per cent of all loans cleared for individuals looking at property investment.

This figure was an increase on the 27.1 per cent recorded by the index in August last year.

AFG sales and operations general manager Mark Hewitt said: "People had been sitting on their hands in relation to property investment … they've been in and out of the share-market, but that's still seen as a bit risky.

"They have regained confidence in property being a sound investment - that's the feeling we're getting."

Figures released recently by RP Data revealed that last month property values in the country increased on average by two per cent.

Among the regions posting the biggest gains were Darwin, boasting a 4.6 per cent rise, alongside Canberra and Melbourne, which both posted 4.3 per cent increases.

Australian property market continues to post price gains

Tue, 2 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The Australian property market continued to grow last month with new statistics revealing that prices increased on average by two per cent.

Figures released by RP Data reveal that over the course of the last year there has been a 12 per cent growth in house value.

Tim Lawless, RP Data's national research director, said that indicators for the coming year suggested that the market would remain in a healthy condition.

He pointed to the increased levels of auctions and clearances, as well as the number of new property available compared to last year.

"[While] we don't expect the same level of capital gains to be recorded in 2010 as we saw in 2009, the initial signs are that the Australian residential property market remains in a very good state of health," he said.

Leading the way in terms of price gains was Darwin, boasting a 4.6 per cent rise, closely followed by Canberra and Melbourne, which both posted 4.3 per cent increases.

Former Take That band member Robbie Williams joined the rising number of Brit's buying property in the country earlier this year.

Warm Australian climate tempts investors

Wed, 24 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

More investors are looking to escape to warmer climates as confidence returns to the international markets, it has been suggested.

The claims come after property portal Primelocation reported a 134 per cent increase in the number of overseas real estate searches conducted on its website during January.

According to the statistics, Australia saw a surge of interest, while Switzerland - with its colder climate - dropped off the list.

Ann Wright, international development manager of Primelocation, believes that the results show two emerging themes for investors.

"The strong performance of countries in the lower half of the list suggests that a renewed sense of confidence is now beginning to filter through and the market is less dependent on top-end buyers," she said.

"Secondly, as a blanket of snow covered Britain, potential buyers focused their attention on warmer destinations as an antidote to the mid-winter blues."

Last month, Australian Property Monitors reported that house prices in the country rose by 12.1 per cent over the course of the year, making real estate growth its strongest since 2003.

Investors should capitalise on interest in Australia early

Wed, 10 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

New-found popularity in the Australian property market has to be capitalised on early, according to one property expert.

Robin Wilson, head of overseas at Rightmove, has made the claim after the portal reported a 64 per cent growth in interest, compared to December 2009.

Mr Wilson commented on the figures, saying that due to the distances involved, much of the interest is likely to be from British individuals wanting to emigrate to the country.

He said that this surge means that the first few months of 2010 represent a "critical opportunity" for developers and agents to sell property.

"For developers and agents, the surge in Australian interest is a pressing opportunity which may fade unless you can stand out from the crowd now and help people make the shift from dreaming to actively thinking about a move," he noted.

Australian Property Monitors reported last month that house prices in the country rose by 12.1 per cent over the course of the year, meaning real estate growth is at its strongest since 2003.

Winter weather is causing investors to search for warmer climates

Wed, 27 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Individuals looking to invest in Australian real estate may be interested in news that the country has seen an increase in the number of property enquiries in recent months.

Overseas Property Professional (OPP) reported that rightmove.co.uk had seen a surge in interest in the country.

The rising popularity is being put down to the winter weather here in the UK, with many potential investors looking to escape to a warmer climate.

The news comes after the Sydney Morning Herald reported a rise in buyer confidence.

Mathew Bell, of Australian Property Monitors, said to OPP: ''I expect continued strong auction listings and sales as the top end continues to outperform the affordable end of the market in the first quarter of 2010."

Australian Finance Group recently stated that it expected property investors to overtake first-time buyers in the market.

Property investors expected to dominate Australian market

Tue, 12 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Property investors are set to replace first-time buyers in the Australian property market in 2010, it has been claimed.

Mortgage experts expect investment to continue on its upward trend but anticipate a change in who will buy, with first-time buyers likely to take a back seat as more well-off individuals look to capitalise on the market.

Mark Hewitt, general manager of sales and operations at Australian Finance Group, said in an interview with the Australian that the first-time buyer market reached its peak during 2009 when many bought their homes with the help of government grants.

However, Mr Hewitt thinks many investors will now view the Australian property market as a "safe bet" in comparison with other more unpredictable ventures.

"Investors are returning to property investment. They have been coming back since the middle of last year to take advantage of a tight rental market," he told the news provider.

The average home price in Australia rose 11.3 per cent in the first 11 months of 2009 according to the latest figures released in the RP Date-Rismark Nation Home Value Index.

Australia 'may see property correction'

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

A property correction that could prevent Australian house prices surging out of the range of UK buyers may be on the cards, it has been stated.

Head of research at overseas investment magazine Property Frontiers Christopher Chadd noted that places like Melbourne and Sydney saw double-digit growth in 2009, despite not experiencing large falls in 2008, making the country an "anomaly" in the western world.

He added: "I think the market is too expensive and I expect a correction in 2010 to take place."

Mr Chadd stated that for the most part, investments in places outside the major cities would not make good returns, although he said an exception to this would be mining areas in the north-west of the country.

The latest RP Data-Rismark National Home Value Index, which was published on New Year's Eve, showed that in November the average home in Australia rose in value by 1.1 per cent, with an overall rise of 11.3 per cent in the first 11 months of 2009.

Property guru checks out Australia

Fri, 8 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Property programme presenter Phil Alsopp is to make a series on living in Australia, it has been revealed.

The presenter of Channel 4 show Location, Location, Location is compiling the production for the same broadcaster about life down under, the Halifax Courier reports.

Discussing the prospects for those moving to the country, he said quality of life is a key issue, with the paper quoting him as saying: "The general consensus is Australians have a stronger sense of that balance between work and life or lifestyle."

Mr Alsopp noted that unlike in Britain, a large income is not necessary to live well in Australia, something he suggested was down to a combination of the laid-back culture, the sunny weather and cheaper property.

Britons reported to be buying in Australia include singer Robbie Williams, who recently revealed he was looking to find a place there before opting for a residence near Daly Waters in the Northern Territory.

Australia tipped for steady growth

Wed, 23 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Australia is set for steady and stable property price increases in the next few years, it has been predicted.

Most experts in the industry believe the market will see values grow by around five to six per cent in 2010, the Sydney Morning Herald reports.

Senior project manager of residential property at BIS Shrapnel Angie Zigomanis told the paper he expected such a figure, with the Reserve Bank of Australia's (RBA's) monetary policy helping to avoid an unsustainable boom.

"I think you'll find interest rates will keep slowly edging upwards and it'll keep a lid on the massive double digit price growth we were seeing previously," Mr Zigomanis said.

Such a situation could help those investing in Australian property now to enjoy the fruits of their capital gains with less chance of a major downturn caused by a bursting property bubble.

On December 1st, the RBA revealed it was raising interest rates by 0.25 per cent to 3.75 per cent, with governor Glenn Stevens commenting that the board of the institution is seeking to "increase the sustainability" of the country's economic growth.

Australia rides high in international property survey

Fri, 11 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Australia has shown itself to be one of the best-performing markets in the latest Knight Frank Global House Price Survey.

The research revealed that the country saw property values increase by 4.2 per cent in the third quarter of this year, with the annual figure jumping by 6.2 per cent.

Such a development put Australia fifth in the list of nations studied by the firm, with head of residential research Liam Bailey noting that its growth is "accelerating".

A major reason for this is that Australia has been left "relatively unscathed by the credit crunch", he stated.

In addition, he observed that Asia - which also saw little direct impact from the financial crisis - has seen many top performers.

Those keen to buy property in Australia may be encouraged by the fact that it and its main regional trading partners in the Asia-Pacific region have been performing better than other parts of the world.

The positive effects of this for the country were highlighted in a speech on November 5th by governor of the Reserve Bank of Australia Glenn Stevens.

He remarked that the extensive trade links with Asia are "paying dividends".

Home building 'on the rise' in Australia

Thu, 10 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Australian home building levels are still on the rise, official government figures have shown.

The tally of loans for new builds in the country was up 9.2 per cent in October and 103 per cent up on a year ago, Reuters reports.

Economist at UBS George Tharenou was quoted by the news provider as saying: "The level of lending for new construction is making new cycle highs, now at its highest since the 2002-03 cycle and consistent with at least a further 30 per cent rise in building approvals."

Such figures come in the wake of official data released earlier last week, showing that October this year produced the tenth successive monthly rise in new-build approvals.

The trend may encourage those keen to buy property in Australia, as a jump in supply could provide more choice for investors.

Earlier this week, Business Spectator's economics blogger Christopher Joye said the average home in the country remains around the long-term mean level for affordability, based on the method of calculation used by the Reserve Bank of Australia.

Australian house prices 'up strongly in October'

Tue, 1 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Australian house prices rose strongly in October, a new survey has indicated.

Figures from the RP Data Rismark Survey showed that the average home value jumped by 1.4 per cent in the month, up from 0.4 per cent in September.

The research firm noted that this meant the mean house price had increased by ten per cent in the first ten months of 2009, compared with a 3.8 per cent dip throughout 2008.

Such a trend suggests recent interest rate changes have not dampened positive sentiment, according to RP Data senior research analyst Simon Kusher.

He stated: "The strong growth figures throughout October after a slowdown during September show that the market is very resilient and that the 25 basis point interest rate increase during the month has not immediately impacted [the] market."

However, the level of growth will be moderated by more rate rises in the coming months, he suggested.

The Reserve Bank of Australia will decide on interest rates again this week, but economics correspondent for the Australian David Uren argued that it should hold back from a rise in light of the uncertainty in the global economic system resulting from the crisis in Dubai.

Australian property sector prospects "generally positive"

Mon, 30 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The outlook for the Australian property sector is broadly healthy, an economist from the Reserve Bank of Australia has said.

Deputy governor of the institution Ric Battellino commented that a number of factors mean the future should be a strong one, with one notable factor for overseas buyers being the likelihood of high levels of immigration as the demand for labour picks up.

He also suggested the sector will be boosted by rising household incomes.

Mr Battellino noted that the country will need to increase its construction of homes to deal with demand, predicting that there may be competition for labour between the industry and the expanding mining sector.

He added that while investment in housing has risen in recent years above historical norms, much of this has gone on refurbishment, holiday homes or replacing demolished dwellings.

House prices have been increasing in Australia, according to recent data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics.

Figures for the prices in state and territory capital in the three months to the end of September showed that these jumped by 4.2 per cent.

Australia tipped for solid growth

Fri, 6 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Australia is in a very good position to enjoy economic growth in the near future, according to the governor of the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) Glenn Stevens.

In a speech, Mr Stevens said that the country was doing better than "even most of the optimists" believed possible a few months ago.

Such news could encourage those keen to buy property in a country where the economic outlook is bright.

Mr Stevens suggested a particular advantage Australia has is that it's government has not had to bail out the banks.

"Australia, therefore, will be relatively free of the difficult governance and exit strategy challenges that such support is raising in some countries," he noted.

Earlier this week, the RBA raised the cash rate by 0.25 per cent to help ensure inflation is kept under control.

In his statement on the move, the governor sated that house prices have already risen "appreciably" this year.

Australian property prices in fresh rise

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Property prices in Australian state and territory capital cities have shown a fresh rise, according to new figures.

The latest survey by Australian Property Monitors has shown that in the three months to September the average house in such cities went up by in price by 3.7 per cent, while units were up by 3.4 per cent.

The highest increase was in Melbourne at 6.1 per cent, followed by Tasmanian capital Hobart at 5.4 per cent, while Sydney saw a 3.6 per cent increase.

Brisbane saw the smallest rise of the big cities at one per cent.

Such a trend may encourage those hoping to buy property in Australia in the expectation of capital gains.

Perth's rise was below average at 1.7 per cent, but professor of economic policy at Curtin University Peter Kenyon said earlier this week that prospects for the city are looking up, with Western Australia's mining sector recovering.

He told the Daily Telegraph: "Consumer confidence is back, business confidence is back and interstate and overseas migration continues."

Australian property 'still affordable'

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Australian property is still much more affordable than it was a year ago, despite a recent rise in the relative cost of buying a home, it has been stated.

The HIA-CBA First Home Buyer Affordability Report for the third quarter of 2009 said that the country's market became 3.3 per cent less affordable for first-time buyers in this period.

However, this still left the index showing a 35.7 per cent improvement on 12 months earlier.

Senior HIA economist Ben Philips observed: "Housing remains more affordable in 2009 than it was through most of the rest of the decade."

However, actions such as increasing the rate of building new homes would be needed to avoid this slipping further, he stated.

The figures predated the decision by the Reserve Bank of Australia to raise the cash rate from three per cent to 3.25 per cent.

Such a move will actually be beneficial for the country's property sector, suggested Brian White, the chairman of real estate firm Ray White.

He said this week it would help provide more stability in the sector.

Australia's best places to buy listed

Fri, 18 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

An Australian bank has devised a list of the best places in the country to buy a property.

St George Bank has come up with 24 location sthat it states will be most likely to hold their value, due to favourable factors concerning location, house price and type, demographics and facilities.

Granville in Sydney, Chadstone in Melbourne, Keperra in Brisbane, Bassendean in Perth and Thebarton in Adelaide were listed as 'stand-out' places to buy.

The 24 places were split between the major cities and a number of other localities around the country.

Focusing on the big cities, the bank's chief economist Besa Deda noted: "Over the 12 months to June, all mainland Australian capital city median dwelling values have risen."

A general increase in Australian property prices has been noted by a number of recent indicators, including the recent Knight Frank Global House Price Survey.

It revealed that after a 1.5 per cent fall in prices in the first quarter of 2009, the three months to June saw a 4.2 per cent rise.

Australia holds base rate

Thu, 3 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Reserve Bank of Australia has held its equivalent of the Bank of England base rate at three per cent.

Governor of the bank Glenn Stevens said the "near term" prospect for inflation was for this to go on falling, justifying a decision not to alter the cash rate this month.

Such a situation could encourage those seeking to buy real estate in Australia, as it may suggest there is no likelihood of a rise in interest rates soon.

Mr Stevens also noted that a wide range of other indicators have been much more positive than had been predicted, with unemployment rising by less, retail sale figures remaining resilient and China - Australia's largest trading partner - seeing healthy economic growth.

Last month it was suggested that Australia's economic recovery will lead to a property boom.

Writing in the Australian newspaper, chief economist for BIS Shrapnel Frank Gelber said that from 2011 the recovery will shift from being slow and sluggish to strong and healthy.

Australia house prices rise

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Houses prices in Australia have increased over the last three months, new research has suggested.

According to the latest figures from the Global Property Guide, the country has shown an increase in the average property values after inflation in the second quarter of 2009.

An increase of 3.73 per cent was evident over the three-month period, although when taking into account the 12-month stretch from the first quarter of last year to Q2 of 2009 there was a decline of 2.8 per cent.

Regional capital cities also saw a hike in prices, with all registering between two per cent and five per cent increase in the average value of a property.

Australia was one of seven countries identified by the portal as being in recovery this quarter, joining Israel, Switzerland, Indonesia and Norway which were already classified as having rebounded from the property slump before this period.

The Australian Bureau of Statistics' Eight Capital Cities Index registered 4.2 per cent growth in Q2 of this year.

Australia tipped for housing boom

Fri, 21 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Australia has been tipped to enjoy a housing boom a few years from now.

In an article written for the Australian on the prospects for the country's economy, chief economist for BIS Shrapnel Frank Gelber said the property market there is already recovering.

He put this down to low interest rates and government incentives to help first-time buyers.

Looking to the future, Mr Gelber added: "Given the extent of under-building and the deficiency of stock, housing will slowly build momentum into what will become a property and construction boom four years from now."

He made the prediction alongside a wider forecast that Australia's economy will grow weakly until 2011, when it will start to experience a more pronounced upturn.

Such a prospect could excite those thinking of buying property in Australia in the hope of enjoying a good return on property.

In its monthly meeting minutes out this week, the board of the Reserve Bank of Australia observed that the volume of mortgage approvals had "strengthened considerably" over the first five months of 2009.

Australian property policy seen as model to follow

Thu, 13 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The way the Reserve Bank of Australia dealt with the country's housing market has been held up as a model for others to follow.

By talking down the market while refusing to trim interest rates during a world economic slowdown in 2002, the central bank avoided a boom and bust situation, experts told Reuters.

Economist at Macquarie Brian Redican said: "Other countries are looking at the Australian example as a very positive one and there are some lessons to be learnt from that episode."

The news agency stated that the European Central Bank is among those coming round to the view that asset bubbles should be targeted.

Australia's policy may encourage those looking to buy Australian property there that the country offers a more stable market.

Earlier this week the Australian Bureau of Statistics Housing Finance Data revealed that there was a 1.1 per cent increase in the level of demand for housing finance in the country in June.

Australia in new housing boost

Tue, 11 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Australian housing finance demand has increased by 1.1 per cent since June, new figures have revealed.

The July total revealed by the Australian Bureau of Statistics Housing Finance Data indicated the rise, a finding taken by many as a sign that the housing market is improving.

Senior economist at ICAP Adam Carr told Reuters: "This is a pretty good set of numbers and shows that the demand side of the housing market is pretty strong."

Those thinking of buying property in Australia may also be boosted by recent comments by Reserve Bank of Australia governor Glenn Stevens.

Commenting as the central bank held interest rates again this month, he noted that data has shown the economy's recent performance to be "stronger than expected".

Factors in this include the improving housing sector, improved investment sentiments and a smaller than anticipated contraction.

Australia's gross domestic product will grow by 0.5 per cent according to the latest central projection, he stated.

New home demand in Australia 'on the up'

Sat, 25 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The demand for new homes in Australia is clearly rising, an industry expert has said.

Harley Dale, chief economist at the Housing Industry Association, commented that the body's latest report indicated through a rise in the value of land that the property market situation is healthy.

The weighted cost of land increased by 7.4 per cent from AUD160,000 (GBP79,000) in December to AUD172,490 in March, the report noted.

Mr Dale commented: "Very low variable mortgage rates, the First Home Owner’s Grant boost and attractive deals from volume builders have generated increased new home demand."

Those considering buying in the country may add such remarks to their considerations, which could also include the recent statements made by the board of the Reserve Bank of Australia about the state of the property market.

In the minutes of the monthly meeting observed that house prices have been rising, loan approvals are "strong" and there has been "solid growth" in housing credit.

Australia tops international property investment list

Mon, 6 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Australia has been placed at number one in a list of the best countries in the world for property investment.

The poll of global real estate investors by specialist groups discovered that a dip in the value of the Australian dollar and lower property prices had made the market an attractive one, after it was not mentioned in last year's study, the Australian reports.

Carried out by the Asian Real Estate Association (Area), the European Association of Investors in Non-Listed Real Estate Vehicles and the Pension Real Estate Association in the US, the survey indicated a return to developed markets.

Commenting on the results, Area co-director and managing director of Redevco Robert Lie told the news source: "A lot of investors are regularly getting on a plane to Australia this year. This was not the case a year ago."

Australia's federal government recently announced a change to visa rules that could boost the number of people from overseas investing in property in the country.

Britons 'seeking dream homes in Australia'

Fri, 5 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Australia has emerged as the new location of choice for Britons naming their dream home.

Insurer Legal & General's Home Sweet Home survey found that only 15 per cent of Britons are currently living in their dream home and for over a quarter (27 per cent) their ideal residence would be overseas.

The survey found that of those looking to move abroad, the most popular country to live in would be Australia, picked by one in five.

This replaced the USA, which came top of the list last year on 17 per cent.

News of the British desire to buy down under was also reported this week by Malaysian news provider Star Biz.

In an article on Australian property investment, it quoted an agent from real estate firm LJ Hooker stating that the "bulk" of overseas buyers of Australian property are from the UK.

The agent also said that extra state aid for first-time buyers and lower stamp taxes for off-plan buyers made Victoria the best state to purchase in.

Optimism expressed over Australia

Thu, 2 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Australia can expect to recover from any recession it may suffer swiftly due to a rebound in China's fortunes, it has been suggested.

Deputy governor of the Reserve Bank of Australia, Ric Battellino, said that while Australia's economy is broadly sound and that interest rates have had a positive effect, a major negative impact on it has been the downturn in the economy of its largest trading partner.

However, he stated, the action taken by the Chinese authorities to help their economy is showing signs of working, commenting: "It is quite possible that the past six months will turn out to have been the period of maximum weakness in the Chinese economy."

Such a recovery could help bolster the Australian property market in the country in the months ahead.

In the last few days it emerged that house prices in Australia rose by 1.1 per cent in the first two months of the year.

The RP Data-Rismark Hedonic Property Index revealed the rise, noting that the main cause of this was an increase in values in Melbourne and Sydney.

Australian property prices show rise

Wed, 1 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A new survey has indicated that

Australian property

prices have risen.

The RP Data-Rismark Hedonic Property Index revealed that the average house price in the country rose by 1.1 per cent in the first two months of 2009, having fallen by three per cent in 2008.

Australia's two largest cities drove the increase, with

Melbourne property

prices up 1.9 per cent and Sydney recovering by 0.5 per cent.

Investors keen to buy in locations where prices are rising may pick these locations over the other major cities, with Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide and Canberra all experiencing continued declines.

RP Data said that lower mortgage costs after a series of interest rate cuts had made buying property a more attractive proposition.

Earlier this month, the board of the Reserve Bank of Australia voted to keep the cash rate on hold at 3.25 per cent.

The rate has been cut several times since it peaked at 7.25 per cent in the summer of 2008, with the first of these reductions coming last September.

Euro exchange rate 'makes Australia more attractive'

Fri, 6 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Australia has become a more popular location for Britons seeking to buy property due to a more favourable exchange rate with sterling, it has been stated.

A survey by Foreign Currency Direct has found that those moving down under enjoy a much lower cost of living than in other popular countries for overseas buyers.

Chief executive of the money exchange firm Peter Ellis said exchange rates between the pound and the Australia and New Zealand dollars have been "remarkably stable" in recent months.

"Coupled with an overall lower cost of living and the promise of sun, sea and scenery, Australia and New Zealand are becoming increasingly attractive destinations for British expats," he commented.

Earlier this week, Australia's central bank announced that it had decided not to cut its main interest rate, something that may help maintain the stability of the dollar's value.

Australia holds interest rates

Wed, 4 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Reserve Bank of Australia has decided to keep interest rates on hold at 3.25 per cent this month, commenting that the country's economy is stronger than many others.

Bank governor Glenn Stevens said: "Demand has not weakened as much as in other countries and, on the basis of currently available information, the Australian economy has not experienced the sort of large contraction seen elsewhere."

He added that the financial system in Australia remains in a "strong" state, although the economy has experienced some weakness.

Such conditions may suggest that the prospects for the property market may be better than those where the economic downturn is more pronounced.

The most recent government figures for Australia's gross domestic product - covering the quarter from July to September 2008 - showed that the country's economy grew by 0.2 per cent, in contrast with the contractions seen in many other economies.