The residential transformation of St Kilda Road is set to continue into with more new apartment plans for the sought-after boulevard.

Wing Tai Asia has lodged plans for a major residential tower at 464-466 St Kilda Road, replacing the former VACC House with an 18-storey mixed-use development designed around a retained heritage podium and a sculpted contemporary tower.

The proposal, prepared under Victoria’s Significant Residential Development with Affordable Housing pathway, would deliver 325 apartments and ground-floor retail across the prominent 4,653 sqm boulevard site in Melbourne’s St Kilda Road North Precinct.

The project centres on the adaptive reuse of the site’s heritage-listed VACC Building, an eight-storey office designed by Bernard Evans that has occupied the address for decades. Planning documents state the development would involve “carefully dismantling and conserving off-site the original metal fabric of the podium visible from St Kilda Road,” before reinstating it as the defining frontage of the new scheme.

Above the restored podium, Wing Tai is proposing a curvilinear residential tower. The scheme includes 172 one-bedroom apartments, 63 two-bedroom apartments, 66 three-bedroom apartments, and 24 four-bedroom apartments, alongside two ground-floor food and beverage tenancies fronting St Kilda Road.

The tower has been designed with substantial articulation and variable setbacks to minimise perceived bulk and maintain view corridors along the boulevard. Urbis, which prepared the planning report, said the design “has been significantly articulated through a curvilinear design” with “an interplay with materials, façade expression and depth” to create visual separation and visual interest.

The proposal also includes 254 basement car spaces, landscaped pedestrian links connecting St Kilda Road and Queens Lane, and a biophilic landscape strategy featuring canopy trees, raised planters, cascading greenery and a glass oculus pool overlooking the eastern frontage.

Planning documents confirm the $270.1 million development will contribute 3 per cent of project costs to the Social Housing Growth Fund as part of the application process.

Wing Tai acquired the St Kilda Road property in 2018 alongside Abacus Property Group for $95.38 million, before later consolidating ownership of the site. The property previously served as the Victorian Automobile Chamber of Commerce headquarters for around 60 years.

The transformation of the St Kilda Rd boulevard is already beginning to materialise, with a number of high-profile projects recently completed, launched, or approaching launch as developers continue to back the long-term appeal of the precinct.

Among the most notable recent completions is Louise by Samuel Property Group, just off the strip on Queens Lane, the same pocket Hirsch &amp; Faigen recently launched The Queensbury. Mirvac is too on the same street with The Albertine, which is approaching completion.

Dexus recently secured approval for its slice of St Kilda Road, while Gurner also has approved plans for the precinct.

Joel Robinson

Wing Tai unveils 325-apartment St Kilda Road tower on former VACC House site

Malaysian developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/s-p-setia">SP Setia</a> is the latest to jump into St Leonards booming Transport Oriented Development precinct.

The developer, which has previously delivered Sapphire by the Gardens apartment development in Melbourne, identified the Atchison Street site in 2023. It filed a Scoping Report around 12 months ago, and now has revealed the designs for the new&nbsp;40-storey mixed-use tower.

The State Significant Development Application covers <a href="https://next-portal.urban.com.au/projects/14650/summary">20-22 Atchison Street</a>, a 1,374 sqm site positioned between St Leonards Station and the new Crows Nest Metro station.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">COX Architecture</a>, the project would deliver 181 apartments, above a four-storey commercial podium, five basement levels, and new public domain works along Mitchell Street. The apartment mix comprises 35 one-bedroom apartments, 39 one-bedroom-plus-study apartments, 85 two-bedroom apartments, and 22 three-bedroom residences.

The proposal has been lodged as a shop-top housing development under the NSW Government’s TOD planning pathway, which allows increased density around key transport infrastructure. The site sits within the recently rezoned Crows Nest Accelerated TOD Precinct.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b799673d-48e2-46b0-801a-0e33a9330100" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/atchinson%20site.png?VersionId=dPh0UfwfaHpbFL1R7H1cbZNbIW0CHbCC" />

SP Setia acquired the Atchison Street site as part of its continued expansion into the Australian apartment market. In comments made to City &amp; Country (The Edge Malaysia) in 2023, SP Setia President and CEO Datuk Choong Kai Wai described the acquisition as “a strategic move” aligned with the group’s post-pandemic market recovery strategy.

“Our target for this exceptional development is local and overseas buyers, including first-home buyers, downsizers and investors,” Choong said.

The tower has been designed as a slender vertical form rising from a mixed-use podium, with COX Architecture positioning the development as a response to the evolving St Leonards and Crows Nest skyline.

“The purpose of the project is to facilitate the delivery of high-quality housing at a strategically located site and deliver a built tower outcome that is consistent with the desired future character of St Leonards and aligns with the TOD controls,” the design report stated.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b1a85eee-76f7-436c-a6da-73ba827b9b13" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/atchinson%20entry.png?VersionId=dA9jHGPMcm.dDbwk4QfxqWiY5bfh3UVt" />

The podium would incorporate retail uses fronting Atchison Street, commercial tenancies, landscaped communal areas, and pedestrian improvements along Mitchell Street. Vehicle access and loading would be consolidated via Atchison Lane.

Residents would have access to more than 665 sqm of communal indoor and outdoor spaces, while the development proposes 96 parking spaces across five basement levels.

The proposal also includes a commitment for 10 per cent of residential floor space to be allocated toward affordable housing through a monetary contribution.

COX said the tower form responds directly to the emerging high-density character of the precinct while seeking to maximise solar access, cross ventilation, and outlook from apartments.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2163f85c-f63b-4be3-aafa-f8763976cec5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Article%20Feature%20Image%20%28Grid%29_5.png?VersionId=WiAmtIKJ6.ZQ41EtYEQ1fol7AeorKBlL" />

“The building is orientated towards north,” the Apartment Design Guide compliance report noted, adding that the tower’s slim form was driven by the constrained inner-urban site dimensions.

The design also incorporates landscaped setbacks and communal open space at podium level, intended to soften the interface with surrounding streets and improve pedestrian amenity.

The project adds to a growing wave of redevelopment proposals reshaping St Leonards and Crows Nest following the opening of the Sydney Metro City line and the NSW Government’s push for higher-density housing around major transport nodes.

Last week Stockland filed plans just down the road. They want to build a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/601-pacific-highway-st-leonards-nsw-2065">52-storey tower on Pacific Highway</a>.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-stockland-plans-52-storey-538-apartment-st-leonards-tower">First look: Stockland plans 52-storey, 538-apartment St Leonards tower&nbsp;</a>

First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> has revealed plans for a new mixed-use tower at 10 Dangar Street, Wickham, advancing a proposal that would reshape the southern gateway to Newcastle’s city centre with one of the city’s tallest residential buildings.

The State Significant Development proposal, now on exhibition, seeks approval for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/bowline-10-dangar-street-wickham-nsw-2293">43-storey tower</a> immediately adjacent to the Newcastle Interchange. The project would deliver around 200 apartments, including 42 affordable housing dwellings, alongside 99 co-living units, a 171-room hotel, retail space, and new public domain integrated through the site.

The scheme marks a significant escalation of plans previously approved for the site. Urban Property Group took over the prominent 2,904 sqm parcel, where excavation and demolition had already commenced under an earlier consent for a 14-storey mixed-use development.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="58a96dd9-407f-4d20-86b4-94e4bfeef74b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20podium.png?VersionId=LGlf08pdFGAZDzvx_CXC4XakHNZRuEE0" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, the tower has been conceived as a landmark transit-oriented development anchored to the Newcastle Interchange precinct. The proposal includes 245 build-to-sell apartments across a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom residences, as well as two penthouses. Fifteen apartments and one operational unit are earmarked for NDIS housing. The co-living component would add a further 99 units, while the podium would accommodate retail uses and hotel facilities.

SJB said the site presents “a valuable opportunity to anchor the precinct by setting the standard for design, active ground planes and character at the key southern gateway.”

The architecture responds directly to the site’s position beside major transport infrastructure and within one of Newcastle’s fastest-evolving urban renewal precincts. The tower form sits above a sculpted podium designed to frame new public spaces, including a through-site pedestrian link connecting Station Street to Hannell Street, landscaped plazas, and activated retail edges.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a7bd6ff0-f7db-4ce8-a6dc-ea56e72c6149" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20lanne.png?VersionId=xzf39VADyhj7zBQY2I9fx9vI62u2tuSb" />

The design report describes the project as part of the broader transition of Wickham into “a vibrant, high-quality mixed-use urban precinct” that leverages proximity to the station, open space, and regional connectivity.

A detailed public art strategy has also been prepared for the development. The strategy positions the project as “a transit-oriented development of state significance at the gateway to Newcastle’s city centre” and outlines a series of integrated artworks responding to Newcastle’s industrial and transport heritage.

Creative Road’s curatorial framework for the project, titled Unveil, draws on “stratified surfaces, carved volumes, and light-filled apertures” while referencing Newcastle’s transformation from an industrial city into a contemporary education and technology hub.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="77a882bb-14b1-4d28-99ff-9438e39508c0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20site.png?VersionId=cevgo_vN0eKPK78P8YcEu3mKPLkpFqE7" />

The proposal is being advanced through the NSW Housing Delivery Authority pathway after being declared State Significant Development in June 2025. The accompanying scoping report states the development aims to “maximise the site’s proximity to the Newcastle Interchange by delivering transit-oriented development” while increasing housing supply and affordable housing provision within the Newcastle LGA.

Urban Property Group’s plans align with the long-term strategic vision established under the Wickham Master Plan, which identified the interchange precinct as suitable for substantial uplift in height and density. The current proposal would significantly intensify that vision, positioning the tower among the tallest developments proposed for Newcastle.

The site sits immediately north of the Newcastle Interchange, bounded by Dangar Street, Hannell Street, and Charles Street. It is surrounded by a rapidly growing cluster of residential towers and mixed-use projects that have emerged following the completion of the light rail and transport interchange.

First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s latest tower at Wickham interchange

Bottega House has completed settlement of a landmark riverfront site in Macquarie Street, St Lucia, representing its first major Brisbane development.&nbsp;

Positioned on the banks of the Brisbane River, the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/180-macquarie-street-st-lucia-qld-4067">premium site at 180 Macquarie Street</a> features uninterrupted river frontage in one of Brisbane’s most tightly held residential precincts.&nbsp;

The proposed development, currently under assessment with Brisbane City Council, has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/plus-studio">Plus Studio</a> with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/mim-design">Mim Design</a> and will deliver a boutique collection of premium residences positioned specifically for owner occupiers and downsizers.&nbsp;

The residences are set to redefine luxury apartment living in the area, with a focus on architectural quality, refined finishes, landscape integration and elevated amenities including curated wellness facilities, resort-style pools and recreation spaces rarely seen in the local market.&nbsp;

Exclusive sales for the project will be led by Keenan &amp; Byrne, ahead of an anticipated launch later this year.&nbsp;

Bottega House Managing Director Nick Malloch said the project reflects the group’s ambition to deliver a highly curated residential offering within one of Brisbane’s most tightly held precincts.&nbsp;

“This is an incredibly rare riverfront opportunity and one we have approached with a long-term perspective,” Malloch said.&nbsp;

“Our vision from the outset was to create a boutique collection of residences that feel more like private homes than traditional apartments, with generous proportions, refined finishes and exceptional amenity throughout."

Malloch says there is a&nbsp;lack of premium owner-occupier stock of this quality in the market, particularly for downsizers wanting space, privacy and a true lifestyle offering without compromise.&nbsp;

"Demand is expected to be strong given the scarcity of premium riverfront opportunities of this nature within Brisbane’s inner-west."&nbsp;

Bottega House secures landmark riverfront site in St Lucia 

<section data-scroll-anchor="false" data-testid="conversation-turn-6" data-turn="assistant" data-turn-id="request-WEB:84a2af5e-d7cf-4ddf-922a-f4d44d6c6caa-2" data-turn-id-container="request-WEB:84a2af5e-d7cf-4ddf-922a-f4d44d6c6caa-2" dir="auto">
<section data-scroll-anchor="false" data-testid="conversation-turn-2" data-turn="assistant" data-turn-id="request-WEB:5a5ab36c-8dd3-454c-b456-c501f22f0eb4-0" data-turn-id-container="request-WEB:5a5ab36c-8dd3-454c-b456-c501f22f0eb4-0" dir="auto">
The arrival of the first piling rig officially marks the commencement of construction at SIERA’s new beachside apartment development, Exhale, in Northcliffe.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/exhale-surfers-paradise-8-enderley-avenue-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Exhale</a>, a glass-encased tower featuring 54 large-scale apartments at 8 Enderley Avenue, is SIERA’s third Gold Coast development. It follows the recently completed PIPIS Bilinga beachfront project, which achieved suburb-record prices, and the soon-to-be-completed Chevron Island development, Tapestry.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=359603]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/siera">SIERA</a> Founder and Managing Director Brent Thompson said the arrival of the piling rig represented a significant milestone for the development, which is scheduled for completion in late 2028.

Over the next month, around 260 piles are expected to be installed as work progresses on the basement structure. The building is anticipated to rise above ground level early next year, before unveiling its sculptural glass curtain wall, developed in collaboration with specialist façade engineers.

“The façade was designed to maximise panoramic coastal views while creating a distinctive architectural identity,” Thompson said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=355935]

Designed by BDA Architecture, Exhale will comprise just 54 two- and three-bedroom residences across 26 levels, a level of low-density living rarely delivered in this beachside pocket between Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach.

The project has been conceived as a resident-only building, with no short-stay accommodation permitted. SIERA says the model is intended to appeal to long-term owner-occupiers rather than transient holiday demand.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=361052]

Residences have been designed with large-format layouts and expansive glazing, with most apartments featuring more than 30 metres of glass frontage to maximise natural light and ocean views.

The amenity offering spans two levels and centres on wellness and lifestyle, including a heated magnesium pool, sauna, yoga and Pilates studio, gymnasium, private dining facilities, cinema lounge, and dedicated surfcraft storage.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=359607]

More than half of the apartments have already sold. SIERA has also opened a sales gallery for Exhale at its Chevron Island commercial premises, near its Tapestry tower and the site of its second Chevron Island apartment development, which is slated to launch in early 2027.
</section>
</section>

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112661]

SIERA kicks off construction at Northcliffe tower Exhale

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>.
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mick.cee-iDmgDDAmu8

Greater cuts interest rates, fees from some home loans

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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. 
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jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

Banks to battle over owner occupier loans: Mozo

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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>.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

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

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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

<html><body>
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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