Demand for Melbourne property will stay strong in 2015: Hodges
Guest observation
What really happened in Melbourne's property market last year, now that we have the benefit of hindsight?
What started out reasonably even turned into, without a doubt, a seller’s market. This also looks set to continue on in 2015, particularly as interest rates are confidently forecasted to remain at the current low levels for some time. If 2015 performs as scripted, vendors can continue to expect to achieve results more in their favour.
The Victorian state election played a significant role in the final quarter of 2014 and provided an excuse for the more cautious buyer to delay purchasing – a wait and see mentality.
This temporary withdrawal from the market place may prove to be ill advised inaction, as property prices continued to be buoyant and look likely to further increase (albeit moderately) this year. This predicted rise in property prices looks as though it will continue throughout 2015.
The imbalance between the number of buyers (more) and the number of vendors (less) will continue to be apparent as buyers compete for each property.
Low interest rates and no suggestion of movement encouraged many to invest in property during 2014. Purchasing property will continue to be one of the top investment choices for Australians in 2015 and we may also see more people using their self-managed super funds as the vehicle to invest in property. This is unless some of the recommendations by David Murray in his recent financial system review are adopted.
With low interest rates predicted to be the norm, buying property is seen as a ‘safe’ and sensible long-term investment for many.
Mid 2014 saw a significant number of planning amendments with the creation of new residential zones allowing for much higher building density in areas with good access to shopping, transport and services. These changes will affect the growth and development focus in 2015, but is very dependent on the particular area. Positions close to all the sought after facilities (good schools, shops, transport etc.) will continue to perform well in 2015.
Early 2014 saw the owner/occupier market much stronger than the investor market. However, this became more balanced as the year progressed and, with the Australian dollar at a reduced level, we are likely to continue to attract foreign investors to our shores during 2015.
In particular, the Asian market which is enticed by high-quality public schools and universities.
Property owners can relax as the demand for property will stay strong in 2015 and low interest rates will give buyers both the confidence and the ability to purchase.
At Hodges, we are already preparing properties for sale for the first quarter of 2015. Expect to continue to see growth in 2015, albeit on a slightly more conservative scale than the previous year as there will be some economic uncertainty resulting from the Australian budget position.
Campbell Cooney is Principal and Franchise Director of Hodges Real Estate in Victoria.
