Repeat buyers are one of the strongest measures of confidence in any apartment development.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/era-newcastle-west-124-126-bull-street-newcastle-west-nsw-2302">ERA</a> in Newcastle West, some purchasers are returning to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gwh">GWH</a> after living at the developer's One Apartments. Their decision to purchase again was driven by the quality of life they found after moving into their first GWH home.

Keith Wilton had spent years living in a house in East Maitland before deciding it was time for a change. Apartment living had always been on his radar, but he was selective about what he wanted.

<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/FH_1EzB-1vs?si=XScVlP1ERsTDJoME" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

"I had some boxes I wanted to tick," he says.

Keith points to the open-plan design, generous outdoor areas and considered inclusions as key reasons One Apartments worked for him.

“One of those things was a nice indoor open plan area, but also I wanted a nice outdoor open area that I could entertain on in summer or Christmases or birthdays,” he says.

He also found value in the smaller details, from integrated appliances to shared resident spaces including the pool, cinema and rooftop areas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356818]

After comparing several developments, he chose One Apartments because of GWH's longstanding local reputation and his own experience working with the developer on a commercial project more than a decade earlier.

"I knew that they were local, that the quality of the build was going to be up there. I'd looked at other apartment complexes around and close by, and I just knew that here was a better decision location wise."

Today, Keith says the move has completely changed how he experiences Newcastle.

"I enjoy living in this location because it's more of a lifestyle change. That Newcastle city living where you can walk to restaurants and bars and even beaches and parks and even shopping across the road."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356828]

Beyond the location, he says it's the sense of community that has surprised him most.

"Everyone loves living here because they chose to live here, but everyone looks out for each other. It's a real great community feel here."

For Aimee and Lyle Goodman, the journey started almost by chance.

<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/tsioMLcnjas?si=zq-ys3JuWpfa5hFv" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

The couple happened to be having coffee in Newcastle when they noticed the site where One Apartments was about to begin construction.

"We were aware GWH was planning a development," Aimee says. "We made one phone call and things moved pretty quickly after that."

As busy business owners, they initially thought apartment living would simply reduce the maintenance that came with larger homes. Instead, it fundamentally changed how they spent time together.

"We actually catch up more as a family now," Aimee says.

"We've had homes with big yards and lots of space, but everyone ended up in different rooms. Here we'll have dinner together, the kids can play, and we spend far more quality time together."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356829]

Lyle says their confidence came from GWH's reputation within Newcastle's building industry.

"I know people who've worked across different apartment projects, and whenever GWH came up the feedback was always the same. They're rock solid. They're quality."

That confidence only grew throughout the buying process.

"One of the things that really impressed us with GWH was the whole process, was the communication," Lyle says. "It was consistent, it was regular, there was no problem if we had some weird questions, there was no problems in getting answers."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351104]

Aimee says one moment stood out.

"The project actually finished on time. We realised we needed to hurry up and sell our house because everything was happening exactly when they said it would."

The positive experience at One Apartments ultimately gave all three buyers the confidence to purchase again with GWH, this time at ERA.

Their confidence reflects what many buyers are seeking in today's apartment market. Location remains important, but so too does certainty around delivery, quality and long-term liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356822]

ERA builds on those foundations with 280 one, two and three-bedroom apartments across two landmark towers in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/newcastle-west-nsw-2302">Newcastle West</a>.&nbsp;

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fk-australia">Fender Katsalidis</a>, the project will include more than 2,000 square metres of resident amenities, including a resort-style pool, gym, sauna, private cinema and rooftop entertaining spaces overlooking the harbour and coastline.&nbsp;

The development is also within walking distance of the Newcastle Interchange, Honeysuckle, Darby Street, the harbour foreshore, restaurants, retail and the city’s beaches, continuing the walkable lifestyle that existing GWH buyers say has transformed how they live.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356826]

For Keith, the appeal remains straightforward.

"You feel at home even before you've moved into your home."

For Aimee, the change is measured in time.

“I just felt like I had more time,” she says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351102]

Construction at ERA is now underway, with more than half of the residences already sold and limited two and three-bedroom apartments remaining in the East Tower release. Priced from $980,000 for two-bedroom residences and $1.46 million for three-bedroom residences, buyers can secure an apartment with a 10 per cent deposit, with premium homes offering ocean views from Level 8 and harbour views from Level 10.

ERA is also backed by Resilience Insurance's 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy, providing protection against structural or waterproofing defects for 10 years after completion. The project is anticipated to be completed in early 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135096]

Joel Robinson

From ONE to ERA: Why buyers are choosing GWH again in Newcastle West

Virgate Property Group is preparing to commence construction of Verdé, its new apartment development in Melbourne's Arts Precinct at Southbank, following a strong run of sales that has seen more than half of the project's 173 apartments secured.

Verdé has attracted a broad mix of first home buyers, owner-occupiers upgrading from nearby inner-city suburbs and investors, with younger owner-occupier couples aged between 28 and 45 accounting for the strongest enquiry. Many are already living in Southbank, South Melbourne, Albert Park, Port Melbourne, South Yarra and the CBD.

"Verdé is located in one of the most desirable pockets of southern Melbourne," Blair Property Group Director Darren Blair, who is managing sales at Verdé, said.

"It's within walking distance of the Arts Centre, Royal Botanic Gardens, Albert Park Lake, and Southbank's restaurants and retail. It's a great lifestyle location with strong amenity and liveability, which made it a very attractive choice for the project."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=372549]

Virgate was already familiar with the precinct, having previously delivered the successful Domain House development in neighbouring South Melbourne. That experience gave the developer confidence to acquire the Coventry Street site and continue expanding its presence in Melbourne's inner south.

"We had been keeping an eye on the site and the broader precinct for a few months before deciding to move forward with the acquisition," Virgate said.

The project was ultimately secured in 2020 following feasibility studies, planning assessments and due diligence, with the brief centred on delivering "a high-quality, considered design that feels both refined and fit for purpose."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=314259]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bruce-henderson-architects">Bruce Henderson Architects</a>, Verdé comprises 173 one, two and three-bedroom apartments priced from $599,000. The architecture is distinguished by a faceted glass façade that responds to both the site's outlook and Melbourne's changing light conditions.

According to Bruce Henderson Architects, the coloured glazing gives the building a distinctive identity while also providing privacy and solar shading, with residences oriented to capture views across the bay, city skyline and surrounding parklands.

Inside, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/designoffice">DesignOffice</a> has created interiors focused on natural light, efficient planning and enduring materials. Apartments feature engineered oak flooring, natural stone benchtops, floor-to-ceiling glazing and SMEG appliances, while a restrained material palette aims to complement the expansive outlooks rather than compete with them.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=372550]

Resident amenity has also been designed around everyday functionality rather than occasional use. Facilities include a concierge-serviced lobby, residents' lounge with fireplace, library and co-working space, gym, terrace garden with barbecue facilities, ground-floor café, and package delivery management.

The project's location continues to be one of its strongest drawcards. Positioned on Coventry Street, Verdé sits within walking distance of the National Gallery of Victoria, Arts Centre Melbourne, Royal Botanic Gardens and Albert Park Lake, while Southbank's dining precinct, Sturt Street trams and the new ANZAC Station are all nearby. The surrounding education catchment also includes Melbourne Grammar, Melbourne Girls Grammar, Mac.Robertson Girls' High School and several major university campuses.

The sales team says buyers have responded particularly well to the combination of location, design quality and long-term liveability.

"They're responding really positively to the quality of the design, premium resident amenities and the uninterrupted views. Many also appreciate the location and how connected it is to everything they need."

The ability to secure stamp duty savings before completion has also been a key factor for purchasers, alongside the opportunity to personalise finishes ahead of settlement.

With construction set to commence soon and more than half the apartments already sold, Verdé enters its next phase as one of the Arts Precinct's more established apartment developments, offering remaining buyers an opportunity to secure a residence before construction advances further. Expected completion is scheduled for late 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=4661]

Virgate's Verdé Southbank moves toward construction as sales fly past halfway stage

Downsizer-focused apartment development Kooyongkoot in Hawthorn has been recognised at the 2026 Better Future Melbourne Design Awards, taking home Gold and Silver awards in two categories.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kooyongkoot-hawthorn-1-kooyongkoot-road-hawthorn-vic-3122">Kooyongkoot</a>, currently being delivered by developer PQD and designed by Cera Stribley, received Gold in the Interior Design – Proposed category and Silver in the Architecture – Proposed category.

The dual recognition reflects the design approach behind the boutique development on prestigious Kooyongkoot Road, where the focus has been on creating homes for downsizers seeking the space, quality and functionality of a detached house within a low-rise apartment building.

Rather than maximising apartment numbers, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/pqd">PQD</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a> limited the development to just 18 residences, allowing for larger floorplans, greater privacy, generous landscaping and expansive communal spaces.&nbsp;The majority of the apartments also benefit from corner aspects, allowing for dual sources of natural light.

Now around 70 per cent complete and on track for completion in November 2026, Kooyongkoot will comprise a mix of garden residences, ter​race apartments, sub-penthouses, and is crowned by two half-floor penthouses with direct lift access and private rooftop terraces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355297]

The Silver Award for Architecture recognised the way the building responds to its prominent corner position at the ent​rance to Hawthorn's Scotch Hill precinct, one of Melbourne's most established residential neighbourhoods.

Rather than competing with the grand homes that line Kooyongkoot Road, the architectural approach focused on restraint and longevity, using curved brickwork, generous landscaping and carefully considered proportions to integrate with the existing streetscape.

"The form feels fluid and timeless, as though shaped by the landscape itself – architecture that belongs, rather than competes," said Chris Stribley, Co-Founder and Managing Principal of Cera Stribley.

The judging submission also highlighted practical innovations throughout the building, including lift cores servicing only nine homes each, a central landscaped lightcourt designed to bring daylight and ventilation into the building, and fully enclosed private storage rooms with lighting, power and shelving to better accommodate residents transitioning from larger family homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355293]

The Gold Award for Interior Design recognised the project's focus on long-term liveability rather than display-home aesthetics.

According to the awards submission, the interiors were designed from the inside out, prioritising how homes would function over decades of daily use through generous proportions, practical storage, durable natural materials and flexible layouts.

The specification includes natural stone throughout, upgraded acoustic glazing, V-ZUG appliances and fully enclosed storage rooms, alongside an amenity offering focused on wellness, entertainment and everyday convenience.&nbsp;

Residents will have access to a gym and yoga studio, a wellness centre featuring traditional and infrared saunas, a cold therapy shower and treatment room, as well as a residents' lounge and golf simulator/cinema room for entertainment.&nbsp;Kooyongkoot has also considered the everyday convenience of its residents by offering a private carwash and pet wash facilities on site as well as dedicated parcel lockers and oversized fully enclosed storage rooms.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355303]

The project's attention to detail has already resonated with buyers. Earlier this year, Kooyongkoot recorded one of Boroondara's highest apartment sales when an $8 million penthouse was purchased by a Melbourne CEO downsizing from a nearby family home.

"Every detail feels deliberate, from the overall design down to the smallest touches," the purchaser said.

"The level of quality and refinement is exceptional, but what really sold it was how liveable it felt... It felt like a place where everything had been considered, not just a luxury building."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355304]

Sustainability also formed a key part of both award submissions. Kooyongkoot is targeting a minimum 7.5-star NatHERS rating across all residences, supported by passive design principles, high-performance glazing, EV charging infrastructure, water reuse systems and a wellness model focused on lower-energy dry facilities rather than pools and large wet areas.

Located within walking distance of Scotch College, Methodist Ladies' College, Koo​yong Lawn Tennis Club, Aubur​n Village and Camberwell Junction, Kooyongkoot continues to target owner-occupiers looking to remain in Melbourne's inner east without compromising on space or quality. A limited selection of two, three and four-bedroom residences remains available, with prices starting from $1.9 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=102717]

Kooyongkoot wins Gold and Silver at Better Future Melbourne Design Awards

New apartment supply has become increasingly constrained across <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/parramatta-nsw-2150">Parramatta</a> in recent years, with fewer projects progressing through to completion as development conditions have become more challenging.

It makes <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/novm">NOVM</a>'s 2021-completed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/the-lennox-parramatta-12-phillip-street-parramatta-nsw-2150">The Lennox</a> one of the most recently completed residential towers on the Parramatta River, and among the newest apartment developments in Sydney's second CBD.

With the project largely completed before the sharp escalation in construction costs and inflation following the pandemic, The Lennox is now offering pricing that would be difficult to replicate in a comparable new development in Parramatta today, or across much of Western Sydney.

The majority of the 413 apartments at The Lennox sold before and shortly after completion. A limited release of the remaining apartments has recently been brought to market by capital partner <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Equitifund</a>, with entry-level pricing from $700,000 and two-bedroom apartments available from under $1 million.

Rising above the Parramatta River at 12 Phillip Street, The Lennox comprises one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments, appealing to first home buyers, young professionals, families, downsizers and interstate investors seeking a completed apartment in one of Australia's fastest-growing economic centres.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=372394]

Rather than positioning Parramatta as an alternative to Sydney's CBD, Equitifund believes the city has reached a point where it stands on its own merits.

"Parramatta is no longer simply an alternative to Sydney CBD, it's becoming a destination in its own right," Equitifund Executive Chairman Greg Huxley said.

"The Lennox captures that evolution with a level of quality and amenity that's difficult to match at its price point."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=953]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/marchese-partners">Marchese Partners</a>, the tower responds directly to its riverfront setting through expansive glazing and open-plan layouts that maximise views across the Parramatta River and city skyline. Interiors feature engineered timber flooring, stone benchtops, stainless steel appliances and floor-to-ceiling glazing, while generous balconies extend the living spaces outdoors.

Marchese Partners says the project was conceived to balance high-quality apartment living with practical, long-term functionality, pairing larger, efficient floorplans with amenities more commonly associated with five-star hotels.

That emphasis continues through the resident facilities, which include a 20-metre rooftop swimming pool, fully equipped gym and wellness spaces, full-time concierge, a residents' lounge, function room, private lifts, secure basement parking and rooftop communal areas overlooking the Parramatta River. Ground-floor boardwalk retail and dining further activate the riverfront and integrate the building into the surrounding public realm.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=925]

Australian housing and finance group Equitifund has secured the remaining apartments, believing there are few completed apartment opportunities in Parramatta that offer the same combination of location, amenity and pricing.

Equitifund National Sales Director Ben Hamblett says buyers are increasingly recognising that premium apartment living no longer needs to come with Sydney CBD pricing.

"The Lennox is where aspirational living becomes attainable," Hamblett said.

"Wake to river and mountain views, step into Sydney's Second CBD, and arrive home to resort-calibre amenities, all without the harbour price tag."

Hamblett says owner-occupiers are also attracted by the convenience of having Westfield Parramatta, Church Street's dining precinct, Parramatta Park, Riverside Theatres, Western Sydney University and major transport connections all within walking distance.

"At The Lennox, lifestyle is not an afterthought, it is the foundation."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=5374]

The Lennox places residents within walking distance of Parramatta Square, Westfield Parramatta, Church Street Eat Street, Parramatta Station, the ferry wharf, Light Rail, the future Sydney Metro West, Parramatta Park and CommBank Stadium, reinforcing Parramatta's position as one of Australia's most connected metropolitan centres outside Sydney's CBD.

Equitifund says buyers visiting the display suite consistently comment on the quality of the finishes, generous floorplans, river and skyline views, and the walkability of the location. The project has attracted a broad mix of local professionals, upsizers, downsizers, buyers relocating from Sydney's inner suburbs and interstate investors seeking long-term growth opportunities.

That demand aligns with Parramatta's continued evolution as an economic powerhouse. Equitifund Research and Market Insights specialist John Bekiaris says sustained population growth, infrastructure investment and expanding employment opportunities continue to support long-term housing demand across the city.

"Parramatta has evolved from a satellite city into one of Australia's most important economic centres. Population growth, infrastructure investment and employment are all supporting sustained long-term housing demand."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=5743]

The apartment price gap drawing Sydney buyers west

A luxury beachfront apartment at Rainbow Bay has more than doubled in value since it sold off the plan six years ago, setting a new local apartment record in the process.

The three-bedroom apartment in the Flow development on Petrie Street, the first of four new projects locally by Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects, has sold for $7.4 million, after originally selling for $3.27 million when the project launched in 2020.

The seventh-floor apartment, comprising 187 sqm of internal living space and a 54 sqm balcony overlooking Froggies Beach and Snapper Rocks, was purchased by a local family.

The transaction was negotiated by Pezet Matheson director Kerry Pezet and equates to more than $30,000 per sqm.

Pezet said the sale reflected the limited opportunities to buy into the boutique beachfront development.

"The sale highlights the rarity of opportunities within the boutique beachfront development, where residences seldom become available," Pezet said.

"Flow is one of the Gold Coast's most tightly held buildings. Buyers from our database move quickly when residences become available, and achieving an off-market sale at $7.4 million demonstrates the depth of demand for property of this calibre."

<img alt="Flow" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c585b206-2130-4eee-a50c-3f27c51a7c70" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-06%20at%208.33.25%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=m3pHRDV62Y3fvN.XQuQHq.52ilTWpRLf" />

Flow was the first of four luxury apartment developments delivered by Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects at Rainbow Bay and was completed in 2023.

Positioned on the beachfront overlooking Snapper Rocks, the residence includes three bedrooms, three bathrooms, a powder room and views stretching north along the coastline towards Surfers Paradise.

Pezet Matheson Residential principal Mitchell Lambert said buyers continued to prioritise quality beachfront apartments in tightly held locations.

"Flow Residences offers a rare combination of elevated beachfront positioning, architectural excellence, comprehensive resident amenity and premium finishes, which is exactly what discerning purchasers are seeking," Lambert said.

"The transaction further reinforces Rainbow Bay's reputation as one of Australia's premier coastal lifestyle destinations, where limited supply and growing demand continue to support strong market performance."

Pezet Matheson originally marketed and sold out Flow off the plan, making the latest transaction a return to one of the project's original buyers.

Paul Gedoun is selling his third project, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/radia-rainbow-bay-271-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Radia Rainbow Bay</a>, after recently completing, and selling out, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/esprit-217-227-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Esprit</a>. He has plans for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-s-s-projects-proposes-88-apartment-wellness-tower-at-coolangattas-boundary-street">fourth building</a>, 88 apartments on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/209-213-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Boundary Street</a>.

Rainbow Bay apartment doubles in price since off the plan sale during pandemic

Home Loans

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The Greater Building Society has cut 0.55% from their new owner occupier variable basic home loan and has announced it will waive establishment, settlement and title insurance fees on all of its basic and packaged home loans.   
The Greater has cut 0.55% off the rate for new owner occupier variable basic home loans worth $150,000 or more that have a loan to valuation ratio (LVR) of less than 80 per cent. This takes the rate for that loan to 4.09% (comparison rate 4.09%), the lowest it has ever been. 
It is also offering 0.2% off fixed Great Rate home loans and fixed and variable Ultimate (packaged) home loans of more than $150,000 with an LVR of less than 80% for both owner occupiers and investors. 
Chief executive officer Scott Morgan said when you consider the all important comparison rate (which takes into account interest rates plus key fees and charges) the discounted variable Great Rate Home Loan is the leading rate of The Greater’s main competitors and 0.83% lower than NAB’s equivalent rate.  
<table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Lowest Owner Occupied Variable Loan with LVR &lt;80%
</td>
<td valign="top">
Interest Rate (%)
</td>
<td valign="top">
Comparison Rate* (%)
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Greater
</td>
<td valign="top">
4.09
</td>
<td valign="top">
4.09
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
NAB
</td>
<td valign="top">
4.53
</td>
<td valign="top">
4.92
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
ANZ
</td>
<td valign="top">
4.48
</td>
<td valign="top">
4.89
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Westpac
</td>
<td valign="top">
4.48
</td>
<td valign="top">
4.86
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Commonwealth Bank
</td>
<td valign="top">
4.19
</td>
<td valign="top">
4.79
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Newcastle Permanent
</td>
<td valign="top">
4.09
</td>
<td valign="top">
4.45
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
IMB
</td>
<td valign="top">
4.09
</td>
<td valign="top">
4.45
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
CUA
</td>
<td valign="top">
4.13
</td>
<td valign="top">
4.19
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Heritage
</td>
<td valign="top">
4.14
</td>
<td valign="top">
4.19
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
* Comparison rate is based on $150,000 over 25 years. 
 
For more information, <a href="https://www.greater.com.au" target="_blank">click here</a>.
</body></html>

mick.cee-iDmgDDAmu8

Greater cuts interest rates, fees from some home loans

<html><body>
Twelve lenders have already made cuts to owner occupier loans, with eleven increasing rates on loans to investors, according to Mozo, who reported some 50 rate cuts in the past month.
Mozo director Kirsty Lamont said six lenders are also offering cash back deals of between $1,000 - $2,000 to refinancers.
“We’re expecting this trend of lower rates and special offers to increase as the Spring buying season ramps up through to the end of the year,” she said. 
"Cuts to owner occupier loans in the past month have averaged 12bps and make the lowest home loan rate available a competitive 3.94%. 
"Mozo data shows owner occupiers are better off to the tune of $100 per month on today’s lowest home loan rate, compared to the lowest rate one year ago (4.54%)."
According to Mozo the average owner occupier home loan rate is now 4.69%, which is 55bp lower than it was this time last year (5.24%), with investor loans averaging 4.81%, 43bp lower than this time last year.
<a href="/images/2015/09/01/Screen%20Shot%202015-09-01%20at%201.17.43%20PM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2015/09/01/Screen%20Shot%202015-09-01%20at%201.17.43%20PM.png" alt="">
Download your free eBook from Mozo titled Get loan-savvy: expert tips for a first-time, investment or refinancing loan click here. 
</body></html>

jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

Banks to battle over owner occupier loans: Mozo

<html><body>
Westpac has announced new home loan offers, including rate discounts and cash-back incentives.
Its new interest rate on the Flexi First Options Home Loan will be 4.19%.
The spring-time offer will also waive the $600 establishment fee.
“Customers are the big winners with our Spring Home Loan offers,” Westpac general manager of third party distribution, Tony MacRae said.
 “Spring is our key home loan season and our supporting campaigns provide great value for customers, especially those borrowers that are looking to pocket some savings.”
For more information, <a href="https://www.westpac.com.au/personal-banking/home-loans/variable/first-home-loan/" target="_blank">click here</a>.
</body></html>

jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Westpac drops home loan rate to 4.19% in spring 2015 offering

<html><body>
GUEST OBSERVATION
Everyday, prompted by pressure from the government, banks are changing their lending policies. What happens if, last week, your bank indicates you will get a loan approval, but this week they decline you?
Let’s face it, if the lending manager from the local branch declines you, they are hardly likely to want to send you to the competition. And, even if they were being generous and wanted to point you in the right direction, how would they know what their competitors’ lending policies were?
This is the benefit of using a Mortgage Broker. Brokers know which lenders will lend what, and to whom.
And, in a rapidly-changing world, really good brokers stay in close-touch with the banks and lenders so that they are ready for lending policy changes; that way clients don’t have the rug pulled from under them.
This is particularly the case with the reputable non-bank lenders who can match the Big Four for rates and products but are not facing the same government restrictions. 
When you are choosing which mortgage broker to go with, you may want to ask them key questions such as:
<ul>
<li>How often do they attend Professional Development sessions</li>
<li>How many lenders do they have on their panel</li>
<li>Which non-bank lenders are on their panel</li>
<li>Are they part of a wider group where fellow brokers share industry tips and updates</li>
<li>How long have group members been in the mortgage broking profession</li>
</ul>
 
Jenna Ford is partner, Chan &amp; Naylor Finance and can be contacted <a href="https://www.chan-naylor.com.au" target="_blank">here</a>.
 
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Is your home loan out of date? Jenna Ford

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Industry super fund-owned bank ME will increase its basic variable home loan interest rate for new investor borrowers by 0.40% to 4.69% p.a. and its flexible home loan with member package interest rate for new investors by 0.36% to 4.89% p.a.
The changes come into effect 15 September 2015.
Rates across existing investor loans will also rise by 0.41%. 
Fixed rates for new owner occupied borrowers will fall between 0.09% and 0.50% across its 3 to 7 year terms, including its 3-year fixed rate falling 0.09% to 4.19% p.a. 
ME chief executive officer Jamie McPhee said the changes will benefit owner occupied borrowers particularly those seeking to buy their first home. 
 
“APRA introduced new regulatory measures to reinforce sound residential lending practices last December, including actions to restrict investor lending growth to no more than 10% p.a.
“The decision to increase investment rates was a difficult one, but after careful consideration we believe that combined with rate cuts across selected owner occupied home loans it strikes the right balance across our portfolio.”
 
 
 
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ME to raise basic variable rate for new investors by 0.4%

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<div>The latest APRA figures showed that loans with redraw and offset facilities have continued to flourish and become more popular than ever before. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>But check these two charts out below. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>Firstly, a massive $44 billion of loans of $96 billion new residential housing loans written in the June quarter were accounted for by interest only products.</div>
<div> </div>
<div><a href="/images/2015/08/26/IO2.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
<div> </div>
<div><img src="/images/2015/08/26/IO2.jpg" alt=""></div>
<div> </div>
<div>And secondly, to put this in its recent historical context, $44 billion reprsents an incredible 45.8 per cent of new loan exposures written.</div>
<div> </div>
<div><a href="/images/2015/08/26/IO1.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
<div> </div>
<div><img src="/images/2015/08/26/IO1.jpg" alt=""></div>
<div> </div>
<div> </div>
<div>
<div class="separator">In summary, it is true that offsets and redraw facilities are included in new loan products more than has ever been the case before.</div>
<div class="separator"> </div>
<div class="separator">However, with somewhere now approaching half of new loans written not requiring immediate repayments against the loan principal there appears to be an increasingly heavy reliance on borrowers managing their personal finances responsibly.</div>
<div class="separator"> </div>
<div class="separator">
PETE WARGENT is the co-founder of <a href="https://allenwargent.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">AllenWargent</a> property buyers (London, Sydney) and a best-selling author and <a href="https://petewargent.blogspot.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">blogger</a>. 
His latest book is <a href="https://www.bigskypublishing.com.au/Books/General-Interest/Four-Green-Houses--and-a-Red-Hotel/1015/productview.aspx" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Four Green Houses and a Red Hotel</a>.
</div>
</div>
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pwargent-M4siyDbqQY

Interest only loans boom: Pete Wargent

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The non-bank lender Homeloans has dropped owner occupied interest rates.
The cut, by up to 30 basis points, sees a reduced rate for the Homeloans FlexiChoice prime loan available for owner occupier loans from just 4.19% (comparison rate 4.54%). 
Homeloans also announced that it will waive establishment fees on standard loan applications, with legal and settlement fees and the cost of one valuation being covered by the non-bank, Ray Hair, Homeloans’ general manager of sales told Brokernews.com.au.
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Homeloans drops owner occupied interest rates

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Mortgage Choice's annual results for the financial year ending June 30 showed the company's loan book climbed 4.6% to reach $49.5 billion.
Approvals for home loans increased 10.5% to $13.4 billion, with settlements up 10.6% to $11.5 billion and the company paying a fully franked dividend of 15.5 cents per share. 
Mortgage Choice chief executive officer John Flavell said solid growth in loan writer and franchise numbers ultimately helped the core business.
“Throughout the 2015 financial year, we appointed 41 loan writers taking our total loan writer count to 575. In addition, we sold 23 greenfield franchises and 14 existing franchises to reach a franchise footprint of 422,” he said.
"There is still more that we can do to grow the core broking business. Heading into FY16, recruitment will become a focus for the business as the more feet we have on the ground, the better placed we will be to help more Australians make informed financial decisions.
“Looking forward, we have a very positive outlook for FY16. The property market remains strong, with dwelling values on the rise and auction clearance rates continuing to hover at solid levels. Further, the value of the home loan market and the number of home loan approvals being written each month continues to rise, which bodes well for Mortgage Choice’s core broking business."
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Mortgage Choice loan book hits $49.5 billion

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There was no surprise at the Reserve Bank meeting this month, with a decision of no change to the cash rate pointing to a continued period of content within the property market.
Experts, however are divided on whether the cash rate’s next movement will be up or down, and while no-one can be certain as to monetary policy, it’s pivotal that Aussies are certain they’re accessing the best <a href="https://www.finder.com.au/home-loans" target="_blank">home loan deal</a> on the market for their situation. Here are the lowest variable and three-year fixed rates on finder.com.au:
finder.com.au’s lowest variable rate home loans
<ul>
<li>
<a href="https://www.finder.com.au/mortgage-house-pure-and-simple" target="_blank">Mortgage House Pure and Simple</a>: 3.99%
</li>
</ul>
If you’ve saved up 20 percent of your loan and don’t need to borrow more than $500,000, this loan can offer you the lowest variable rate on <a href="https://www.finder.com.au" target="_blank">finder.com.au</a>. It also allows for unlimited redraws and no ongoing or application fees. Keep in mind though that the lending criteria is already relatively restrictive, and you also won’t have access to an offset account, so choose wisely.
<ul>
<li>
<a href="https://www.finder.com.au/state-custodians-mortgage-company-peak-performance-offset-home-loan" target="_blank">State Custodians Mortgage Company Peak Performance Offset</a>: 3.99%
</li>
</ul>
This low rate loan is not for those who’re already stretching their initial budget, as it comes with a $275 valuation and $299 service fee – the latter being an annual expense. If you’re okay with this, you’ll certainly be okay with the unlimited additional repayments and redraw options, 100% offset account and ability to borrow up to 95% LVR. 
<ul>
<li>
<a href="https://www.finder.com.au/loans-com-au-dream-essentials-home-loan" target="_blank">loans.com.au Dream Essentials</a>: 4.02%
</li>
</ul>
This is another loan that can accommodate up to 80 percent of the total property value, so again it’s important to have a decent financial reserve before you buy. You also won’t have access to a 100% offset, so money management in this scenario is essential. Should you choose to accept this mission, you’ll have no annual, application or legal fees to get through and will have access to a considerable contender in the low variable rates space.
finder.com.au’s lowest 3-year fixed rate home loans
<ul>
<li>
<a href="https://www.finder.com.au/mortgage-house-fixed-and-pure-home-loan" target="_blank">Mortgage House Fixed and Pure</a>: 3.94%
</li>
</ul>
If you like the idea of no application or ongoing service fees, a 95% loan-to-value ratio and up to $20,000 worth of additional repayments a year, this loan could be a suitable addition to your financial landscape. You would need to accommodate for not having a 100% offset account, and this loan will also has a $500 discharge fee.
<ul>
<li>
<a href="https://www.finder.com.au/bank-of-queensland-fixed-rate-home-loan#10118" target="_blank">Bank Of Queensland</a>: 3.99%
</li>
</ul>
You will need to be quick – this low rate is only applicable until the end of September. If you can jump into the property game before then, this loan can also offer you a 100% offset and up to 95% LVR, which will both give your budget room to move. Provided you’re fine with paying a $120 annual fee, and a once-off $300 application and $150 settlement fee, which may add up to be a considerable expense for some.
<ul>
<li>
<a href="https://www.finder.com.au/newcastle-permanent-fixed-rate-home-loan#9410" target="_blank">Newcastle Permanent</a>: 4.09%
</li>
</ul>
This loan offers both a low rate and no ongoing service fees or initial application fee, as well as extra repayment options – when paired together these can make for powerful savings. Don’t let the power go to your head, however, as you won’t be redrawing those funds during the fixed term of your loan and you won’t have access to a 100% offset account, so your money moves will definitely have to be strategic – because once you’ve locked it in, it’s going to be near impossible to access it again.
MICHELLE HUTCHISON is spokesperson for comparison website <a href="https://finder.com.au/" target="_blank">finder.com.au</a>.
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mhutchison-SWt6qigzDX

The lowest variable and three-year fixed rates on finder.com.au: Michelle Hutchison

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Research from comparison website Mozo.com.au has found home loan fixed interest rates are being cut, especially for four and five year rates.
Large second-tier institutions, according to the Mozo Banking Insights Bulletin, have begun to increase three year rates.
The July report noted many more lenders were implementing recent investment lending legal changes.
<div dir="ltr">
<table style="width: 445px;" border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td nowrap width="41">
Rank
</td>
<td nowrap width="78">
Provider
</td>
<td nowrap width="171">
Product
</td>
<td nowrap width="65">
Amount
</td>
<td nowrap width="41">
Max LVR
</td>
<td nowrap width="50">
Rate
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td nowrap width="41">
1
</td>
<td nowrap width="78">
Mortgage House
</td>
<td nowrap width="171">
Pure &amp; Simple ULTRA Variable Home Loan (Owner Occupier)
</td>
<td nowrap width="65">
$100000 to $500000
</td>
<td nowrap width="41">
50%
</td>
<td nowrap width="50">
3.89
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td nowrap width="41">
2
</td>
<td nowrap width="78">
Homestar
</td>
<td nowrap width="171">
Basic Refinance Loan (Principal &amp; Interest, Owner Occupier)
</td>
<td nowrap width="65">
$50000 to $500000
</td>
<td nowrap width="41">
70%
</td>
<td nowrap width="50">
3.94
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td nowrap width="41">
3
</td>
<td nowrap width="78">
Freedomlend
</td>
<td nowrap width="171">
Variable Home Loan (Owner Occupier)
</td>
<td nowrap width="65">
$50000 to $1000000
</td>
<td nowrap width="41">
80%
</td>
<td nowrap width="50">
3.98
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td nowrap width="41">
4
</td>
<td nowrap width="78">
Homestar
</td>
<td nowrap width="171">
Variable Rate Loan (Owner Occupier)
</td>
<td nowrap width="65">
$50000 to $1000000
</td>
<td nowrap width="41">
95%
</td>
<td nowrap width="50">
3.98
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td nowrap width="41">
5
</td>
<td nowrap width="78">
Auswide Bank
</td>
<td nowrap width="171">
Home Loan Plus Special (Principal &amp; Interest) (Freedom Package)
</td>
<td nowrap width="65">
$150000 to $3500000
</td>
<td nowrap width="41">
90%
</td>
<td nowrap width="50">
3.99
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td nowrap width="41">
6
</td>
<td nowrap width="78">
Easy Street
</td>
<td nowrap width="171">
Basic Variable Home Loan
</td>
<td nowrap width="65">
From $100000
</td>
<td nowrap width="41">
80%
</td>
<td nowrap width="50">
3.99
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td nowrap width="41">
7
</td>
<td nowrap width="78">
iMortgage
</td>
<td nowrap width="171">
Fusion (Owner Occupier) (ProPack)
</td>
<td nowrap width="65">
$500000 to $2000000
</td>
<td nowrap width="41">
80%
</td>
<td nowrap width="50">
3.99
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td nowrap width="41">
8
</td>
<td nowrap width="78">
Mortgage House
</td>
<td nowrap width="171">
Pure &amp; Simple Variable Home Loan (Owner Occupier)
</td>
<td nowrap width="65">
$100000 to $500000
</td>
<td nowrap width="41">
80%
</td>
<td nowrap width="50">
3.99
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td nowrap width="41">
9
</td>
<td nowrap width="78">
State Custodians
</td>
<td nowrap width="171">
Peak Performance Offset
</td>
<td nowrap width="65">
$500000 to $1500000
</td>
<td nowrap width="41">
80%
</td>
<td nowrap width="50">
3.99
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td nowrap width="41">
10
</td>
<td nowrap width="78">
loans.com.au
</td>
<td nowrap width="171">
Dream Home Loan Essentials
</td>
<td nowrap width="65">
$50000 to $750000
</td>
<td nowrap width="41">
80%
</td>
<td nowrap width="50">
4.02
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td nowrap width="41">
11
</td>
<td nowrap width="78">
Mortgage View
</td>
<td nowrap width="171">
Variable Rate Super Special
</td>
<td nowrap width="65">
$150000 to $1500000
</td>
<td nowrap width="41">
75%
</td>
<td nowrap width="50">
4.02
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td nowrap width="41">
12
</td>
<td nowrap width="78">
iMortgage
</td>
<td nowrap width="171">
Essential Home Loan
</td>
<td nowrap width="65">
$50000 to $750000
</td>
<td nowrap width="41">
80%
</td>
<td nowrap width="50">
4.04
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td nowrap width="41">
13
</td>
<td nowrap width="78">
loans.com.au
</td>
<td nowrap width="171">
Dream Home Loan Offset Variable
</td>
<td nowrap width="65">
$50000 to $2000000
</td>
<td nowrap width="41">
80%
</td>
<td nowrap width="50">
4.06
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td nowrap width="41">
14
</td>
<td nowrap width="78">
Yellow Brick Road
</td>
<td nowrap width="171">
Rate Smasher
</td>
<td nowrap width="65">
$100000 to $750000
</td>
<td nowrap width="41">
70%
</td>
<td nowrap width="50">
4.06
 
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
 
 
</body></html>

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