Gold Coast property professionals Jared Johnson and Zac Potter have teamed up to launch their debut property development, Basalt Lane, a boutique collection of architecturally designed warehouse units set to rise in Tweed Heads South.

Potter, a proven developer in his own right, is the founder of 21 Property Group and son of respected developer John Potter, while Johnson, director of leading commercial real estate agency Coastal Commercial, has been involved in hundreds of high-profile industrial transactions across South-East Queensland and Northern NSW.&nbsp;

Located at 80–82 Industry Drive, Basalt Lane will feature just eight premium warehouse units with flexible low-impact zoning, rare dual street access, and sleek, contemporary finishes not often seen in the Industrial sector. Construction is scheduled to commence in Q4 2025.

“This joint venture made sense from day one,” says Johnson, who is spearheading the sales campaign.

“Zac brings proven development experience, and I have a strong grasp of the local industrial market through years of commercial sales in the area. By combining our strengths, we saw an opportunity not just for ourselves — but to deliver something the local community genuinely needs. There’s a clear demand for modern, flexible, and flood-free industrial spaces in this region, and Basalt Lane is our answer to that.”

Strategically positioned just 700 metres from the M1 Motorway and under 10 minutes from Gold Coast Airport, the project offers high appeal for investors, small business owners looking for a coastal work base with premium connectivity or a secure storage solution.

The launch of Basalt Lane comes amid a surge in industrial development across the Tweed region. According to Tweed Shire Council, the area is undergoing major transformation, including the Industry Central Land Swap, a government-backed initiative relocating flood-affected businesses to higher ground. The $11.3 million program is creating modern, job-generating industrial hubs built for long-term resilience.

Projects like Quarry Business Park, also marketed through Johnson’s Coastal Commercial — are also breaking ground in 2025 — highlight the growing demand for flood-free, future-proof industrial space in one of Australia’s fastest-growing regional economies.

“We’re proud to be contributing to the next chapter of growth here,” said Potter. “Basalt Lane is a long-term play — it’s designed to deliver value now and remain relevant for years to come.”

The project responds to broader market trends, including the rise of flexible “co-warehousing”, demand for hybrid industrial-office spaces, and growing interest in regional coworking hubs. With Australia’s coworking sector forecast to grow at 23.6% CAGR to 2030, and similar small-scale developments selling out in major cities, Basalt Lane offers a timely, lifestyle-forward business solution.

Potter and Johnson bring years of experience across real estate and development throughout the Gold Coast and Northern Rivers corridor. For them, Basalt Lane represents more than just a business move — it’s a personal milestone.

“There’s no big fund behind us. We’re not a national group,” said Potter. “We’re two mates with experience and vision and we’re having a go.”

With limited supply and rising demand, Basalt Lane is expected to attract strong early interest from entrepreneurs, trade-based businesses, owner-occupiers, and investors seeking solid long-term returns in a high-growth coastal hub.

Jared Johnson and Zac Potter, have teamed up to launch their debut property development: Basalt Lane, Tweed Heads - a boutique collection of architecturally designed warehouse units set to rise in Tweed Heads South.

Urban Editorial

Gold Coast entrepreneurs launch premium industrial project in booming Tweed Heads South

Enfield may be home to fewer than 3,000 residents, but its prime location between Strathfield and Burwood has cemented its status as one of the Inner West’s hidden gems.

The suburb offers a village-style lifestyle with an abundance of cafés, restaurants, and boutique shops, staples of Inner West living.

At the last census, there were only around 300 apartments in the suburb. Fewer than a handful of new apartment developments have been delivered in recent years, but none are as well positioned as The Carlyle, just a three-minute walk to Henley Park, arguably one of the best parks in the area.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-carlyle-enfield-164-liverpool-rd-enfield-nsw-2136">The Carlyle</a> will comprise 32 one- and two-bedroom apartments, a mix rarely seen in the new development market across Sydney.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=148733 project_image_fid=6667]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/ray-white-projects-western-sydney">Ray White Projects WS</a>&nbsp;is fielding enquiry from several buyer types.

"First home buyers are realising this is the best time to get into the market," says Mark Bernberg, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/ray-white-projects-western-sydney">Ray White Projects WS</a>&nbsp;Managing Director.

"There are now several government incentives assisting first home buyers to get onto the property ladder. The recent announcement to waive lender's mortgage insurance for those with low deposits puts tens of thousands back in their pockets. Pair that with stamp duty savings in the new apartment space, and there has never been a better time to be a first home buyer in the off the plan apartment market."

Bernberg has also seen a re-emergence of investors, attracted to the low supply of apartments in Enfield and the suburb's lifestyle, while also being on the fringe of Burwood, which is set to undergo a huge transformation with its recent rezoning around the new metro station.

"That will bring a wealth of new retail and amenity to the area, which tends to drive prices higher," Bernberg says.

"Rents are at record highs, and with interest rates coming down from the highs earlier this year, investment apartments are starting to stack up again financially."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=148733 project_image_fid=6665]

The Carlyle apartments will sit above doorstep amenity, with a two-level retail podium incorporated into the striking building. The retail component will include a new ground-floor café facing Carlyle Street.

Two-bedroom apartments range from 67 sqm to 83 sqm internally, with some of the larger residences on the top level featuring expansive wraparound balconies. These layouts are designed to enhance seamless indoor-outdoor living, maximising natural light and views.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=148733 project_image_fid=6666]

The Carlyle's proximity to Henley Park is one of its biggest drawcards. The 13-hectare park includes multiple sports fields, two fenced playgrounds designed for various age groups, and Enfield Aquatic Centre, complete with Olympic-sized swimming pool.

The Carlyle is on track to welcome residents in early 2026.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=6667]

Joel Robinson

The Carlyle in Enfield launches to undersupplied Inner West market

A new Metro stop, a thriving café scene, and proximity to village-style retail have cemented St Leonards as one of the Lower North Shore’s most sought-after suburbs for new development.

Among those seizing the opportunity is Sekisui House Australia, which has chosen this prized pocket, in the St Leonards South precinct, for its first-ever inner-city apartment project, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/waterstone-st-leonards-24-berry-road-st-leonards-nsw-2065">Waterstone</a>.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134191 project_image_fid=230]

Set for completion in the summer of 2027, Waterstone comprises 207 apartments across five buildings, designed to look south back to the&nbsp;Sydney&nbsp;CBD.&nbsp;The new project offers residents the rare balance of connected urban living and tranquil green surrounds.

Just moments from home lies Smoothey Park, a blend of natural bushland and manicured parkland. It forms part of the Wollstonecraft cluster of reserves, including Gore Cove, Badangi Reserve, and Berry Island, all offering peaceful escapes on the Harbour’s edge.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/KCD5mtyKBjc?si=DcC6Koxg6shdDFzq" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

When it comes to lifestyle, St Leonards and its neighbouring suburbs, Crows Nest, Waverton, Greenwich, and Wollstonecraft, deliver an endless array of cafés, restaurants, and boutique retailers. Nearby Mall 88, only 650 metres from Waterstone, adds convenience with over 30 specialty stores.

Connectivity is another major drawcard. The new Crows Nest Metro Station is just one kilometre away, while St Leonards Train Station is a short seven-minute walk. For a more scenic commute, the Greenwich Point Wharf ferry reaches Circular Quay in under 30 minutes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134191 project_image_fid=351953]

For peace of mind, Royal North Shore Hospital, one of Sydney’s most prominent medical hubs, sits just 650 metres away, making Waterstone ideal for healthcare professionals or residents seeking easy access to world-class medical facilities.

Perfectly positioned on the fringe of vibrant activity yet embraced by parkland serenity, Waterstone offers the best of both worlds in Sydney’s evolving Lower North Shore.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134191]

Nature and connection define life at Waterstone in emerging St Leonards South precinct

A new collection of residences is now available at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/sol-by-walker-maroochydore-first-avenue-maroochydore-qld-4558">SOL by Walker</a>, the residential development that continues to take shape within the Maroochydore City Centre.

The second release introduces 137 apartments to the market, adding to the growing community in what is set to become one of South East Queensland’s most significant urban renewal precincts. The new offering includes a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments, alongside a limited number of terraces and penthouses designed to suit a range of lifestyle needs.

“SOL represents the beginning of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/maroochydore-qld-4558">Maroochydore</a>’s exciting next chapter, redefining expectations around life in this beautiful coastal city,” David Gallant, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/walker-corporation">Walker Corporation</a>, said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147777 project_image_fid=319853]

Located on South Sea Islander Way, SOL forms part of the broader vision to deliver a connected and vibrant city heart for the Sunshine Coast. Construction is already underway on the first 19-storey tower, with completion targeted for early 2028. The development is being delivered by Walker in collaboration with Sunshine Coast Council and SunCentral.

SOL’s second stage continues the project’s focus on high-quality apartment living, with access to a suite of resident-only amenities including a rooftop sky terrace, wellness retreat, co-working lounge, gym and landscaped garden spaces.

Interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/plus-studio">Plus Studio</a> combine timeless design with natural materials, generous layouts and panoramic outlooks to the ocean, hinterland and river.&nbsp;

“SOL by Walker establishes a new standard in apartment quality, seamlessly integrating superior craftsmanship with unmatched design,” Danny Juric, Director at Plus Studio, said

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147777 project_image_fid=346899]

Apartments feature open-plan layouts with high ceilings and expansive glazing to enhance natural light and ventilation.&nbsp;

A warm, neutral palette ties together stone benchtops, brushed platinum accents, and sandstone-toned carpet, while large sliding doors connect living areas to generous outdoor spaces.&nbsp;

Kitchens are fitted with integrated Miele appliances, refined cabinetry and thoughtful storage, while bathrooms offer double vanities and oversized showers to balance function and comfort.

As part of the Sunshine Coast’s new CBD, residents will be within walking distance of local retail, dining and green space, with transport connections set to expand as the precinct grows. Once complete, Maroochydore City Centre is expected to deliver thousands of new homes as part of the region’s long-term housing strategy.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=147777]

Second release at SOL by Walker expands residential offering in Maroochydore City Centre

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mirvac">Mirvac</a> has marked the topping out of Prince &amp; Parade in Brunswick, celebrating the completion of the building’s highest point and a major step forward for one of the developer’s landmark Melbourne communities.

The milestone forms part of Mirvac’s strong construction momentum across Victoria, with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/prince-parade-by-mirvac-brunswick-701-park-street-brunswick-vic-3056">Prince &amp; Parade</a> and The Albertine both recently reaching structural completion. Together, the two projects will deliver 265 new apartments, contributing to much-needed housing supply in Melbourne’s inner suburbs.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4802 project_image_fid=3627]

Designed in collaboration with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bates-smart">Bates Smart</a>, Prince &amp; Parade continues a long-standing partnership that has delivered The Melburnian (2002) and The Eastbourne (2019).

The new <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/brunswick-vic-3056">Brunswick</a> address comprises a mix of one to four-bedroom residences complemented by extensive amenity, including a residents’ lounge, shared dining room and kitchen, library, yoga room, gym, and rooftop terrace, with landscaping by Jack Merlo and a concierge service.

Construction is rapidly transforming the site, with significant milestones achieved across two buildings, supported by 73 slab pours and six fully constructed building cores. Completion is expected in 2026.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4802 project_image_fid=269383]

Mirvac’s General Manager, Residential Development Victoria, Elysa Anderson said Prince &amp; Parade has been strongly received by buyers seeking quality design and trusted delivery.

“These communities have been well received, attracting strong interest from downsizers and professionals who value high-quality design, premium locations and the confidence of buying with Mirvac,” Anderson said.

Prince &amp; Parade has also achieved a record-breaking apartment sale in Brunswick, underscoring its design quality and market appeal.

“We’re incredibly proud to see Prince &amp; Parade set a new benchmark for Brunswick. This <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/vic/exclusive-mirvac-breaks-brunswick-record-with-prince-parade-sale">record-breaking sale</a> is a testament to Mirvac’s design excellence, quality craftsmanship, and our strong reputation for delivering high-quality residential communities across the country,” Anderson said.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=4802]

Prince & Parade tops out in Brunswick as Mirvac marks dual Melbourne milestones

Canstar

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Consumer advocate, RateCity.com.au, believes COVID-affected customers should not have to pay a higher rate if they can only afford to make interest-only repayments on their home loan when their six-month deferral ends.
From September, homeowners on a deferral who can’t resume their repayments can potentially extend the pause by an extra four months or switch to interest-only repayments.
Moving to interest-only can be a good halfway measure, as the repayments are significantly lower than normal. However, Australia’s three largest banks have confirmed these COVID- affected customers are likely to be charged a premium for moving on to this loan type, although they will review on a case-by-case basis.
Sally Tindall, research director at RateCity.com.au said, “The banks have been told by ASIC to be fair and flexible in their negotiations, and to help people stay in their home, if it’s in their best interests.”
“Yet some banks are planning on charging COVID-affected customers a higher rate if they switch to interest-only repayments,” she said.
“These customers should be getting a rate cut, not a rate hike. Asking people to pay more interest when they are in financial distress doesn’t seem fair or reasonable."
“Some of these people, through no fault of their own, have had their livelihood striped from them. They don’t know when they’ll be back on their feet again and they are stressed and scared."
“They need genuine help from the banks, not a bigger interest bill," she concluded.
Potential options if you can’t pay your mortgage: 
<ul type="disc">
<li>Use money in your offset or redraw, if available.</li>
<li>Switch to interest-only repayments. While this could increase your rate and the overall interest bill, paying something is better than nothing.</li>
<li>Ask your bank for a loan deferral, or if you are already on one, an extension.</li>
<li>Sell or rent the property.</li>
</ul>
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

COVID-affected customers should receive rate cuts not rate hikes: RateCity

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From searching for the right property to applying for a <a href="https://www.canstar.com.au/home-loans/">home loan</a> and choosing your furniture schemes and <a href="/expert-insights/buying/how-to-decorate-your-first-apartment">decor</a>, there’s a lot to plan before moving into your new home. Insurance is another important consideration, as it can help provide a level of financial cover for the contents inside your apartment, or the building itself, in the event of a worst-case scenario.

Here’s a guide to understanding insurance cover for your apartment, and four things to keep in mind when considering a contents policy to suit your requirements.

<h2>What insurance is available for an apartment?</h2>

For most new apartments, financial protection for the building structure is generally managed through a strata insurance policy. This type of insurance generally does not often include cover for your possessions inside the apartment, which is where contents insurance becomes important to acquire.

1. Building - strata insurance

Strata insurance, also called body corporate insurance, covers the apartment building itself, together with common property and shared areas like pools, lifts, driveways, balconies and garages, as well as permanent fixtures inside the apartment, which may include shared water pipes, toilets, and built-in wardrobes.

Depending on the policy, you might also have coverage for public liability in the event someone (such as a tradesperson) is injured while on common property.

This building insurance is mandatory for strata title apartments and is therefore arranged and managed by the body corporate. The cost of the insurance is shared between all owners and included in your body corporate levies.

2. Contents insurance

<a href="https://www.canstar.com.au/home-insurance/what-is-contents-insurance/">Contents insurance</a> provides some financial protection against damage, theft or loss of personal possessions in your home. It is designed to cover everything inside your apartment that’s not permanently fixed, meaning you may be able to use it to claim items such as carpets, curtains, light fittings and appliances, as well as personal possessions including furniture, jewellery, phones and laptops.

When <a href="http://www.canstar.com.au/home-insurance/">comparing insurance policies</a>, it is a good idea to look at factors such as claim limits and the natural events included (such as damage from power surges during storms) because insurance providers can have varying policy definitions, inclusions and exclusions.

How much can contents insurance cost?

The exact premium you pay on your contents insurance can depend on a range of factors – such as the location of your apartment and the value of the contents you need cover for – but to give you a ballpark estimate, here is the market average annual contents insurance premiums listed on Canstar’s database. 

<div class="rtecenter">CONTENTS INSURANCE PREMIUM STATISTICS</div>

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width:650px;">
<thead></thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td class="rtecenter">
			<div>                    STATE                     </div>
			</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">
			<div>     AVERAGE ANNUAL MARKET PREMIUMS</div>
			</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td class="rtecenter">
			<div>NORTH QLD</div>
			</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">
			<div>$756.49</div>
			</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td class="rtecenter">
			<div>NSW</div>
			</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">
			<div>$409.59</div>
			</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td class="rtecenter">
			<div>QLD</div>
			</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">
			<div>$398.46</div>
			</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td class="rtecenter">
			<div>SA</div>
			</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">
			<div>$330.29</div>
			</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td class="rtecenter">
			<div>TAS</div>
			</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">
			<div>$303.24</div>
			</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td class="rtecenter">
			<div>WA</div>
			</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">
			<div>$383.61</div>
			</td>
		</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
*Source: Canstar - 17/09/2019. Based on the average annual premium for general contents insurance policies rated in Canstar's September 2019 Home &amp; Contents Insurance Star Ratings for the sum insured of $50,000. North QLD is the portion of Queensland north of Rockhampton. QLD includes Rockhampton and all areas south. Market includes all rated products on Canstar’s database.

<h2>When should you take out contents insurance?</h2>

The stage where you become responsible for any damage to the property differs from state-to-state. Generally, the buyer becomes responsible for damage to the property either on the exchange of contracts or at settlement. 

Another consideration is that the strata insurance might not cover internal fixtures, such as <a href="/guides/how-to-choose-the-right-flooring-for-your-off-the-plan-apartment">floorboards</a> or top-of-the-range light fittings. I would suggest confirming with your lawyer as to what is covered by your apartment's strata insurance and what you may require additional insurance for.

<h2>Insurance and your new apartment: 4 things to keep in mind</h2>

When <a href="/guides">buying an off-the-plan apartment</a>, you may be looking to protect your assets financially, but it’s important to bear in mind that not all insurance policies are created equal.

Here are four things to keep in mind when considering insurance for a new apartment:

1. Understand what your strata insurance covers

Check the specifics of what the strata insurance policy considers part of the building structure, common property, common areas and common contents. For example, some policies might cover hardwood flooring inside apartments but not timber laminate or carpet, which you may choose to cover in your contents insurance policy.

2. Comparing contents insurance policies

Different insurance providers have different policies, and premium prices will vary. Shopping around to compare the offers provided by contents insurance providers is a great way to find out which company's policy is best suited to your needs.

When comparing policies, it is also a good idea to check the extent of coverage offered, including the definitions for clauses including "accidental damage" and other defined events, like fire and theft. You could also check whether your cover extends to personal property, including smartphones and bicycles, when they are in use remotely from your home.

If you’re intending on making your new apartment an investment property, you may instead wish to consider landlord insurance, as contents cover might not apply to you in this situation.

3. Accurately valuing your possessions

When taking out contents insurance, your insurance provider will generally ask you to give an estimated total value for your possessions. If you would like cover for certain high-value items such as jewellery, computers or electric guitars, you may need to list each of them specifically, and check with your provider about the value they may payout if you need to claim. Documenting and taking a photo of the items and receipts could also assist in providing evidence of ownership in case you need to make a claim.

4. Home warranty insurance

Something extra to keep in mind for newly built or off-the-plan apartments, in particular, is <a href="https://www.qbcc.qld.gov.au/home-warranty-insurance/home-warranty-insurance-explained">home warranty insurance</a> which could be included as part of the building contract and is typically underwritten by the state government where the apartment is located. If you find any defects covered under the policy within a set period after development and you inform your body corporate immediately, you may be able to lodge a claim for breach of statutory warranty. Note that eligibility, timelines and deadlines for making claims may vary between different states and territories.
</body></html>

Contents vs strata insurance: A guide to understanding the cover for your brand-new apartment

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Switching mortgages from the average standard variable rate to the average lowest rates on the market could save a mortgage holder nearly $48,000 of interest over the lifetime of a loan, new figures from Canstar reveal.
Canstar, Australia's biggest financial comparison website, calculated the average standard variable rate of a mortgage is 4.43%.
The average of the lowest rates is 3.71%, a difference in repayments of $159 a month, based on a $400,000 home loan.
Over the lifetime of a loan that equates to $47,653 of interest.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/4/2/Can-switch.jpg" alt="">
Canstar finance expert Steve Mickenbecker says what a difference a month makes, as the RBA look likely to cut rates in the not too distant future.
"Weak December quarter GDP numbers followed by lower than expected jobs growth, have taken a rate increase off the agenda altogether," Mickenbecker says.
He says a lower cash rate looks inevitable, however suggested for now the RBA is still monitoring important figures in case there are further declines.
"The RBA could be keeping its powder dry to leave room to move if we start to see even more disturbing GDP and jobs numbers, and property prices in coming quarterly results.
"Lenders are factoring in cuts, with 274 fixed rate cuts this calendar year. The bigger rate cuts are in the 4 and 5 year terms, with funding costs for Australian lenders following the downward trend for US longer term interest rates.
"The increased wholesale funding costs that drove up home loan rates for existing borrowers up from September last year have since been reversed, with the bank bill swap rate falling again.
"Lenders have not returned these rate increases, but have invested them in lower rates for new borrowers.
"When the RBA does move, the questions will be how much will the banks pass on and will cuts be enough to make a difference?
"The most likely answers are not all of it and there will be a long lag before any rate cuts work through the economy.
 
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jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

Switching mortgages could save nearly $48,000 in interest: Canstar

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One of the biggest changes for investors has been the repricing of investment home loans, in response to the removal of the interest-only investment lending caps from January 2019 and the continuing slowdown in demand, according to Canstar.
Since September 2018, 47% of the lenders on Canstar’s database have decreased one or more of their investment interest-only offerings across fixed or variable rate loans.
The average interest rate for interest-only has come down across variable, one-year fixed, two-year fixed, three-year fixed and five-year fixed by up to 0.08%.
“What’s interesting is while we’re seeing the average investor home loan rates decrease, the lowest offer in the market is where the greatest movement has happened over the last six months with decreases of up to 0.20% on fixed loans,” Mickenbecker adds.
When comparing the average one-year fixed interest only loan amount of $400,000, the average decrease could mean a saving of up to $253 per year. Looking at the market minimum the rate cuts could mean a potential annual saving of up to $518 for investment property owners.
On the reverse side, the majority of increases for investment lending that occurred since September 2018 have been on variable rate loans, with an average increase of 0.15%, meaning that investors are paying higher rates for their existing loans.
While that market has observed more increases on variable rate investment loans than fixed, there has still been a 0.01% reduction on the average variable rate for new borrowers. The reduction has resulted from a number of large downward movements with the average decrease being 0.25%.
Mickenbecker says with great deals out there for new loans it’s a good time for investors, and homeowners for that matter, to check their rate, fees and loan features to see if they could be getting a better deal.
With lenders’ home and investment loan interest rates on the move in both directions, Australia’s biggest financial comparison website, Canstar, released its latest Home Loan Star Ratings research.
Canstar considered more than 4,800 home loans finding that on average a 5-Star Rated home or investment loan had access to lower interest rates compared to the market average.
Canstar’s finance expert, Steve Mickenbecker says it’s not hard to see how borrowers may be left confused as to whether they’re getting a good deal or should look to refinance their home loan.
While the latest Australian Bureau of Statistics figures show a 17.1% year-on-year decline in value for new lending commitments to owner occupiers compared with a 28.6% decline in value for lending commitment for investment dwellings, the door is still wide open for investors, he said.
Canstar has awarded a 5-Star Rating to 26 home loan lenders after they were found to offer outstanding value.
Owner-Occupier Home Loan Star Ratings
Outstanding Value – Home Lender
This award goes to home loan lenders that provided outstanding value products to owner-occupiers across variable and fixed-rate loan terms considered in these ratings. Home loans were assessed across four loan amounts ranging from $200,000 up to $750,000, for borrowers making principal and interest repayments. Here are the winners, listed in alphabetical order:
<ul>
<li>Bank Australia</li>
<li>Freedom Lend</li>
<li>Greater Bank</li>
<li>Heritage Bank</li>
<li>Homestar Finance</li>
<li>HSBC</li>
<li>ING</li>
<li>Qudos BanK</li>
<li>RACQ Bank</li>
</ul>
The new Canstar research found owner-occupiers with a 5-Star Rated home loan had access to lower interest rates compared to the market average.
Outstanding Value – Variable Home Lender
This award recognises lenders that consistently offered outstanding value products to owner- occupiers across varying loan amounts. Home loans were assessed across four loan amounts ranging from $200,000 up to $750,000 for borrowers making principal and interest repayments. Here are the winners, listed in alphabetical order:
<ul>
<li>AMO Group</li>
<li>Easy Street Financial Services</li>
<li>Freedom Lend</li>
<li>Homestar Finance</li>
<li>HSBC</li>
<li>MOVE Bank</li>
<li>Pacific Mortgage Group</li>
<li>Reduce Home Loans</li>
<li>SCU</li>
</ul>
The research shows owner-occupiers who choose a 5-Star Rated home loan have the potential to save themselves thousands of dollars over the life of the loan. For instance, the average variable interest rate for a 5-Star Rated residential loan valued at $350,000 with an 80% loan-to-value ratio (LVR) and principal and interest repayments was 3.68%. This compares favourably to the marketaverage of 4.47% out of all products on Canstar’s database. Over a 25-year loan term, that difference could equate to more than $50,000 in savings on the total cost of the loan.
Outstanding Value – Fixed Home Lender
This award recognises home loan lenders that consistently provided outstanding value products to owner-occupiers across one, two, three and five-year fixed rate loan terms. Home loans were assessed across four loan amounts ranging from $200,000 up to $750,000 for borrowers making principal and interest repayments. Here are the winners, listed in alphabetical order:
<ul>
<li>BankVic</li>
<li>Freedom Lend</li>
<li>Greater Bank</li>
<li>ING</li>
<li>Newcastle Permanent</li>
<li>Qudos Bank</li>
<li>RACQ Bank</li>
<li>TicToc Home Loans</li>
<li>UBank</li>
</ul>
Borrowers looking to fix their home loan for a set period may want to consider the difference in interest rates between a 5-Star Rated loan and the market average. For example, the average 5-Star three-year fixed interest rate for a residential loan valued at $350,000 with an 80% LVR and principal and interest repayments was 3.83%, compared to the average from our database of 4.19%.
Investment Home Loan Star Ratings
Outstanding Value – Investment Home Lender
This award acknowledges lenders that consistently offered outstanding value products to investors across the variable and fixed-rate loan terms considered in these ratings. Home loans were assessed across four loan amounts ranging from $200,000 up to $750,000 for borrowers making principal and interest and interest-only repayments. Here are the winners, listed in alphabetical order:
<ul>
<li>Freedom Lend</li>
<li>Greater Bank</li>
<li>Homestar Finance</li>
<li>loans.com.au</li>
<li>Newcastle Permanent</li>
<li>RACQ Bank</li>
<li>TicToc Home Loans</li>
<li>Virgin Money</li>
<li>Reduce Home Loans</li>
<li>Suncorp Bank</li>
</ul>
The research revealed 5-Star Rated home loans offer investors lower interest rates when compared to the market average within the investor home lender profile.
Outstanding Value – Investment Variable Home Lender
This award goes to home loan providers that consistently offer outstanding value products to investors across variable loans. Home loans were assessed across four loan amounts ranging from $200,000 up to $750,000 for borrowers making principal and interest and interest-only repayments. Here are the winners, listed in alphabetical order:
<ul>
<li>Freedom Lend</li>
<li>Gateway Bank</li>
<li>Homestar Finance</li>
<li>loans.com.au</li>
<li>Newcastle Permanent</li>
<li>Pacific Mortgage Group</li>
<li>RACQ Bank</li>
<li>Reduce Home Loans</li>
<li>State Custodians</li>
<li>Community First Credit Union</li>
</ul>
The research revealed there were potential savings to be found for investors if they chose a 5-Star Rated home loan. For instance, the average 5-Star variable interest rate for an investment loan valued at $350,000 with an 80% LVR and principal and interest repayments was 4.25%, while the interest-only rate was 3.98%. These average rates compare favourably to the market averages from our database of 5.08% and 4.77%, respectively. These differences can potentially add up to be quite significant over time. For example, over a 25-year loan term, that difference means investors making principal and interest repayments could save more than $51,000 on the total cost of the loan.
Outstanding Value – Investment Fixed Home Lender
This award recognised lenders that consistently provided outstanding product offerings to investors across one, two, three and five-year fixed rate loan terms. Home loans were assessed across four loan amounts ranging from $200,000 up to $750,000 for borrowers making principal and interest and interest-only repayments. Here are the winners, listed in alphabetical order:
<ul>
<li>Aussie</li>
<li>Freedom Lend</li>
<li>Greater Bank</li>
<li>Newcastle Permanent</li>
<li>RACQ Bank</li>
<li>Suncorp Bank</li>
<li>TicToc Home Loans</li>
<li>Virgin Money</li>
</ul>
For borrowers looking to fix their investment home loan, the difference in interest rates between a 5- Star Rated loan and the market average can be significant. For instance, the average 5-Star three- year fixed interest rate for an investment loan valued at $350,000 with an 80% LVR and principal and interest repayments was 4.01%, while the interest-only rate was 4.11%, compared to averages from our database of 4.32% and 4.53% respectively.
Line of Credit Star Ratings
Outstanding Value – Line of Credit
Canstar’s Research team compared the price and features of 48 lending institutions that provided a line of credit secured by a property. Here are the winners, listed in alphabetical order:
<ul>
<li>Aussie</li>
<li>BankVic</li>
<li>Suncorp Bank</li>
<li>State Custodians</li>
</ul>
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Canstar reveals top rated lenders for investors

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The financial comparison company Canstar has released its latest home loan ratings.
The company looked at a total of 5,394 property loans with 3,192 of those meeting its eligibility criteria.
The top 10% of loans assessed achieve a 5-Star Rating for “offering outstanding value” in the following profiles:
<ul>
<li>Owner occupier: An individual either refinancing an existing property, purchasing a new property or constructing a new property.</li>
<li>Investor: An individual either refinancing an existing investment property or purchasing an investment property.</li>
<li>Line of credit: An individual who borrows credit against their property as security.</li>
</ul>
Canstar’s Group finance expert, Steve Mickenbecker said that borrowers need to be wary of rising interest rates.
“Not all lenders have put up their rates yet, but most rely on wholesale funding to some degree and will be feeling the pressure of the increasing costs of those funds,” Mickenbecker said.
“The pressure will be flowing through to the profit margins and eventually most are likely to follow with rate hikes.
“Ahead of rate hikes, now is the time to make extra repayments and to take advantage of the banks’ low rate offers to see if you could be getting a better value deal.
“Whether you choose to move lenders or not, it’s a good time to consider fixing your loan’s interest rate to future proof repayments for two or three years while they are manageable.”
You can view the list of Canstar’s <a href="https://www.canstar.com.au/star-rating-reports/home-loans/" target="_blank">top loans</a> for these categories available at their website.
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