Not all apartment amenities are immediately visible.

Swimming pools, gyms, rooftop terraces and residents' lounges have long featured on buyers' wishlists, but as the way Australians live has changed, so too have the features that make apartment living more convenient.

Increasingly, buyers are placing value on the practical aspects of day-to-day life. Fast internet, EV charging, secure bike storage, flexible workspaces and parcel management are becoming just as relevant as lifestyle amenities, reflecting changing habits and expectations.

Online shopping has been one of the biggest drivers of that shift.

Australians spent a record $82.6 billion shopping online in 2025, with almost one in every four retail dollars now spent digitally, making parcel deliveries a routine part of everyday life rather than an occasional convenience.

For apartment residents, however, receiving those deliveries isn't always straightforward.

Without someone home to accept a parcel, deliveries can be redirected to a nearby Post Office, left in building foyers or common areas, or require building management to temporarily store packages. As apartment living continues to grow across Australia's cities, parcel management has become an increasingly important consideration for both residents and developers.

Australia Post's Parcel Locker network is one response to that shift.

<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/KPZ9j5FRdsQ?si=Qztc1dNP3ZvEIUhb" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Rather than relying on home delivery, eligible parcels can be directed to a nominated Parcel Locker, where they're securely stored until collected. Once a parcel arrives, residents receive a notification through the AusPost app or SMS and can retrieve it using a one-time code or QR code at a time that suits them.

The network has expanded to more than 1,500 locations nationwide, with Parcel Lockers positioned at Post Offices, shopping centres, supermarkets, transport hubs and, increasingly, within or alongside residential developments.

That growing presence reflects a broader change in how apartment buildings are being planned.

Developers are increasingly considering the operational side of apartment living alongside traditional lifestyle amenities. Just as secure mailrooms, bicycle storage and EV charging have become more common inclusions, parcel management is emerging as another feature that supports everyday convenience.

It also helps preserve the arrival experience within a building. Carefully designed lobbies and communal spaces can quickly become cluttered when deliveries accumulate, while secure parcel solutions reduce the likelihood of missed deliveries or parcels being left unattended.

For buyers comparing apartments, these everyday details are becoming part of the decision-making process.

Location, floorplans and finishes remain fundamental, but the features that simplify daily life are carrying greater weight than they once did. As online shopping continues to shape consumer behaviour, secure parcel delivery is increasingly becoming another amenity worth looking for.

Joel Robinson

Parcel delivery is joining the apartment amenity checklist

Inca Property Group has lodged a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) for Dawn, a 53-apartment oceanfront development overlooking Mona Vale Beach.

The proposal, at 35-39 Darley Street East, would replace an existing 18-apartment strata building with a new owner-occupier-focused development comprising 53 two and three-bedroom apartments, including nine affordable built-to-rent residences delivered under the State's infill affordable housing scheme.

Positioned on a 2,679 sqm elevated site around 280 metres from Mona Vale Beach, the development has been designed to maximise panoramic ocean views while responding to the site's sloping topography.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/inca-property-group">Inca Property Group</a> Managing Director Josh Thompson said the State Significant pathway provided greater certainty for projects of this scale.

"This State Significant pathway gives the team real certainty to progress <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/dawn-35-39-darley-street-east-mona-vale-nsw-2103">Dawn</a> through to completion," Thompson said.

"It allows us to acquire a one-off site, design it carefully and deliver the right offering for the suburb, assessed by the NSW Government's planning department."

The project is one of the first developments in the area to be assessed under the NSW Government's Low and Mid-Rise Housing policy, with the site sitting on the edge of the policy's designated inner area.

The proposal includes three basement levels providing 124 car spaces, alongside a range of resident amenities including a swimming pool, gym, sauna, wellness facilities and private plunge pools for selected ground-floor and penthouse apartments.

<img alt="Dawn" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fc1a1daf-0ce4-4f12-9076-b1fa553c7a91" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-21%20at%208.42.11%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=4GZ9h.gpNkTljbxyAET8Jfhv51XUamDm" />

Thompson said Dawn had been designed specifically for owner-occupiers and downsizers, a buyer profile that has driven demand across Inca's recent Upper North Shore developments.

"The majority of buyers in our recent North Shore projects have been downsizers, and we are learning exactly what this market is looking for. Beyond the location itself, we have included resort-style amenities to deliver a genuine lifestyle offering," Thompson said.

Located within walking distance of Mona Vale Beach, the town centre, Mona Vale Golf Club and the Royal Motor Yacht Club, Dawn represents Inca's first Northern Beaches project following the sell-out of Tara on Park in Waitara and Ellis Residences, currently under construction in St Ives.

Construction will be undertaken by Inca's in-house construction arm, GOP Constructions.

Dawn is the latest major apartment proposal for Mona Vale, with the suburb emerging as one of the key beneficiaries of the NSW Government's new Low and Mid-Rise Housing policy.

New developer One Living, led by industry veteran Joseph Scuderi, recently secured a site on Mona Vale Road, on the border of Mona Vale and Pymble, where it is planning around 140 apartments.

IPM is also planning its third project in Mona Vale, significantly increasing the scale of its previous developments with an 82-apartment proposal at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/159-167-darley-street-west-mona-vale-nsw-2103">159-167 Darley Street West</a>, opposite Bayview Golf Course and less than 800 metres from Mona Vale town centre.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/one-living-enters-sydneys-new-apartment-market-with-northern-beaches-site-acquisition">One Living enters Sydney's new apartment market with Northern Beaches site acquisition</a>

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-ipm-plans-third-mona-vale-project">First look: IPM plans third Mona Vale project</a>

First look: Inca eyes Mona Vale with State Significant DA for Dawn apartments

Seasoned Victorian apartment developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/central-equity">Central Equity</a> has logged more than $400 million in sales in its luxury apartment project Palmera Residences at Northcliffe on the Gold Coast.&nbsp;

Central Equity Director Karl Kutner said the sales result reflected a combination of location, product quality and delivery certainty with the project already under construction by building powerhouse Multiplex.&nbsp;

"Surpassing $400 million in sales since launch is a significant milestone and an outstanding endorsement of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/palmera-residences-gold-coast-18-garfield-terrace-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Palmera Residences</a>,” he said.&nbsp;

"We believe one of the key reasons for this strong result is the confidence purchasers have in knowing the project is under construction with Multiplex. Buyers are increasingly looking for certainty. They want to know that the project they commit to today will be delivered by an experienced team with a proven track record."&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365782]

Kutner said it was clear there was still high demand for luxury projects that offered certainty of delivery.&nbsp;

“We are in a market where many residential developments have faced delays due to rising construction costs, labour shortages and financing challenges,” said Kutner.&nbsp;

"But having construction underway has provided our buyers with resounding confidence backed by more than 40 years of development delivery by Central Equity combined with construction by one of Australia's most respected construction companies."&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365785]

Central Equity is one of Australia's most experienced privately-owned property developers. Over more than four decades, the company has delivered in excess of 85 residential developments including 10,000 apartments and many thousands of stand alone homes.&nbsp;

Located on Garfield Terrace at Northcliffe, between Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach, Palmera Residences occupies one of the Gold Coast's most sought after beachside locations. The development has been designed to appeal to owner occupiers seeking premium residences that combine generous living spaces and resort style amenities.&nbsp;

Palmera Residences will feature an exceptional collection of resort style amenities, including two swimming pools: a generously sized family pool with safe shallow zones for relaxed recreation, and a 20 metre lap pool positioned to maximise all day sunlight.&nbsp;

Residents will also enjoy exclusive access to wellness and recreational facilities including a magnesium pool, sauna, yoga studio, expansive fitted gymnasium, resident lounge, outdoor BBQ’s&nbsp;and indoor and outdoor dining areas, together with a dedicated concierge and luxurious hotel inspired entrance foyer.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365767]

A unique feature at Palmera Residences has been designed to enhance the Gold Coast lifestyle which includes both indoor and outdoor gymnasium facilities, together with thoughtfully designed indoor and outdoor dining and entertaining areas. A corner café has also been incorporated to provide residents with a destination for their everyday needs.&nbsp;

Kutner said buyer demand had been broad based with purchasers attracted from interstate as well as throughout South East Queensland.&nbsp;

"We're seeing strong interest from owner occupiers, lifestyle buyers and people relocating to the Gold Coast. Many purchasers have been searching for a premium beachside residence where quality, design and delivery are equally important."&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365771]

Kutner said the sales milestone was an important achievement, but the focus remained firmly on delivering an exceptional development.&nbsp;

"While reaching $400 million in sales is an important milestone, our priority remains delivering a project that exceeds purchaser expectations,” he said.&nbsp;

"Palmera Residences has been designed to become one of the Gold Coast's landmark residential addresses, and we look forward to welcoming our purchasers to their new homes."&nbsp;

There are a limited number of residences remaining in selected configurations with pricing from $2,950,000 to $8,950,000. Palmera Residences is also crowned by expansive penthouses with wrap around views.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108274]

Construction certainty and strong buyer demand drive major sales result for luxury Gold Coast development

Palmera Residences fly out the door as sales pass $400 million

National property developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/goldfields-group">Goldfields</a> has appointed BINAH as its construction partner for Quartet, its new Brisbane apartment development in the undersupplied suburb of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/milton-qld-4064">Milton</a>.

Located just two kilometres from the Brisbane CBD and moments from key 2032 Olympic precincts, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/quartet-milton-33-manning-street-milton-qld-4064">Quartet</a> will deliver 131 one, two, three, and four-bedroom apartments priced from $1 million to $4.2 million, combining elevated design with a wellness-focused lifestyle offering.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=368000]

Goldfields’ Chief Executive Officer, Lachlan Thompson, said the appointment of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/binah-constructions">BINAH</a> marked an important milestone for the project.&nbsp;

“Bringing BINAH on board as our construction partner will allow us to bring our vision for Quartet forward with a team that has a proven track record of delivering high-quality residential projects,” Thompson said.&nbsp;

“We’ve taken a considered approach to progressing the site because we wanted to deliver the whole package. Buyers ultimately back great developers, great projects and great builders, and with Quartet, we’ve made sure all three line up.

“People want certainty, they want to know the project will be built, that the homes will be delivered as promised, and that the developer stands behind the quality of what they create. That’s something Goldfields has built its reputation on over many years.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=367993]

BINAH’s Managing Director, Khalil Hafza, said the company was proud to be partnering with Goldfields to deliver Quartet.&nbsp;

“Quartet is an exciting project to bring to life, particularly given the level of detail in the residences and the extensive rooftop amenity planned for the building,” Mr Hafza said.&nbsp;

“Our focus is on delivering a high-quality build that brings that design vision to life and creates homes residents will enjoy for many years.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=367999]

The facilities at Quartet have been feared towards the roof, with a&nbsp;25 metre lap pool, spa, sauna and cold plunge, and a communal barbecue area and alfresco.

Town planning was designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a> and brought to life by Melbourne-based architecture firm Cera Stribley.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/cera-stribley">Cera Stribley</a> Co-Founder and Managing Principal, Dom Cerantonio, said the project responds to both its riverside setting and Brisbane’s evolving urban character.&nbsp;

“Quartet has been designed to sit comfortably within its riverside context, offering a refined take on urban living through well-planned, generously proportioned residences that will stand the test of time,” Mr Cerantonio said.&nbsp;

“An emphasis on natural light, natural textures and carefully selected finishes from timber and marble to premium appliances, creates calm, considered interiors designed for comfort and long-term liveability.”&nbsp;

Construction of Quartet will commence in July 2026, with completion anticipated in Q4 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108736]

Construction to commence on 131-residence tower designed around wellness-focused living

Goldfields appoints BINAH for Quartet apartments in Milton

The first partnership between national developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/fortis">Fortis</a> and Adelaide-based developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/otello">Otello</a> has made a strong start, with the pair securing $21 million in unconditional sales at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/one-four-four-hutt-adelaide-144-hutt-street-adelaide-sa-5000">One Four Four Hutt</a>&nbsp;on the edge of the Adelaide CBD.

Over a third of apartments have been snapped up in the boutique 44-apartment project on the corner of Hutt Stret and Wakefield Road. Local downsizers and owner-occupiers wanting to remain in Adelaide's tightly-held southeast quarter have been the most prominent purchasers.

The DKO-designed, mixed-use development is one of the few new apartment projects in the precinct, an area where new housing supply has remained limited despite continued demand from buyers wanting to stay close to the CBD, Victoria Park and Adelaide's established east-end amenities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151233 project_image_fid=375378]

Fortis Head of Development SA Arthur Dendrinos said the early sales reflected both the strength of the local owner-occupier market and confidence in the Hutt Street location.

"The level of early commitment reflects the confidence local buyers have in the Hutt Street precinct," Dendrinos said.

"Many purchasers are long-term east-end residents who love the area and want to stay connected to the neighbourhood. They recognise the value of a well-designed, well-located development.

"Our partnership with Otello has been central to this success, and the number of unconditional sales at this stage only strengthens our confidence in the South Australian market."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151233 project_image_fid=375379]

Otello Director Daniel Harris said the sales result also highlighted the lack of new apartment opportunities within the Hutt Street precinct.

"One Four Four Hutt has clearly resonated with buyers, with strong early sales reflecting both the appeal of the Hutt Street corridor and the lifestyle on offer," Harris said.

"The activated ground-floor retail has also been a key drawcard, with purchasers responding to the vision of a more vibrant and connected streetscape, not just the residences themselves."

One Four Four Hutt will deliver 44 one, two and three-bedroom apartments, alongside a collection of penthouses, above a ground-floor retail offering designed to further activate the Hutt Street precinct.

Construction is scheduled to commence in the third quarter of this year, with completion anticipated in 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=151233]

Fortis Head of Development SA Arthur Dendrinos said the early sales reflected both the strength of the local owner-occupier market and confidence in the Hutt Street location.

Fortis makes Adelaide debut with Otello as One Four Four Hutt records strong early sales

Home Loan Rates

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The lowest home loan rate in the market has dropped to 1.69 percent at the Greater Bank.

It announced the new market leading rate of 1.69 percent following a cut of 0.20 percent to its 1 year fixed rate for owner occupiers paying principal and interest. 

Canstar editor-at-large and money expert, Effie Zahos says chasing a low rate should be on every homeowners’ radar.

“Interest rates will remain at rock bottom for the next three years, though fixed rates are likely to rise before variable rates do as the longer term bond market starts to anticipate monetary tightening a few years ahead,” Zahos said..

“The move from Greater Bank proves competition is still rampant in the home lending space,” she said. 

UBank is at 1.75 percent followed by Homestar at 1.75 percent.

Ratecity noted Greater Bank borrowers will need to shop around or refix their rate after the first year as the loan reverts to a variable rate of 3.66 per cent. 

Greater Bank home loans are only available for borrowers in NSW, ACT and Queensland. 

RateCity.com.au analysis shows if an owner-occupier with a $400,000 home loan switched from the average existing owner-occupier rate of 3.05 per cent, to this new rate from Greater Bank, they could potentially save $5,039 in the first year, including refinancing costs. 

However, after five years borrowers could be $3,849 worse off, unless they switch or refix their loan.

<img alt="" height="492" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/ratecity_cheapest_home_loan.jpg" width="604">

Notes: based on an owner occupier paying principal and interest, switching loans 5 years in to a 30 year home loan with a balance of $400K. Assumes the customer does not refix / refinance after the 1 year fixed rate expires. Refinancing costs include discharge fees but not government fees.

RateCity.com.au data shows 24 lenders have cut 317 home loan rates since 1 January.
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Canstar editor-at-large and money expert, Effie Zahos says chasing a low rate should be on every homeowners’ radar.

jchancellor

Home loan rate hits new record low of 1.69%

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From 1 January to 31 December there were 6,777 cuts to home loans, with an average cut of -0.30%, according to Canstar's database.

It recorded:

<ul>
<li>880 cuts to variable rates for owner occupiers, with an average cut of -0.21%</li>
	<li>2,455 cuts to fixed rates for owner occupiers, with an average cut of -0.33%</li>
	<li>764 cuts to variable rates for investors, with an average cut of -0.21%</li>
	<li>2,678 cuts to fixed rates for investors, with an average cut of -0.32%</li>
</ul>
Over the same period there were 535 home loan rate increases, with an average increase of 0.20%.

On 1st January 2020 the average variable rate for owner occupiers paying principal and interest was 3.73% (80% LVR). Today that rate is 3.32% The lowest variable rate was 2.69% and it is now 1.99% (80% LVR) or 1.77% (60% LVR).

On the 1st January 2020 the average 3-year fixed rate for owner occupiers paying principal and interest was 3.15%. Today the average 3-year fixed rate is 2.30%. The lowest 3-year fixed rate was 2.69% and it is now 1.89%.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/2020_home_loan_rate_changes.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="505" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/2020_home_loan_rate_changes.jpg?itok=dknBFocG" width="580"></a></figure>Savings interest rates

From 1 January to 31 December Canstar recorded:

<ul>
<li>529 cuts to savings, with an average cut of -0.18%</li>
	<li>262 cuts to regular savings accounts, with an average cut of -0.19% </li>
	<li>267 cuts to bonus savings accounts, with an average cut of -0.17%</li>
</ul>
On 1st January 2020 the average regular savings account rate was 1.12%. Today that rate is 0.43%. The maximum rate was 2.65% and it is now 1.75% (available for 4-months).

On 1st January 2020 the average bonus savings account rate was 1.47%, now just 0.75%. The maximum rate was 2.25% and it is now 1.35%.
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From 1 January to 31 December there were 6,777 cuts to home loans, with an average cut of -0.30%, according to Canstar

urban.com.au

2020 saw 6,777 interest rate cuts across Australia's home loan institutions

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ME Bank has announced it will cut interest rates for all existing variable home loan customers by 0.15%, after passing on the full RBA rate cut in June.
The effective date for the latest reduction in variable home loan rates is 23 July. 
ME bank said, "In setting interest rates ME considers the needs of all stakeholders while ensuring the pricing of all products remains sustainable."
Just hours after the RBA announced they are further dropping the cash rate by 0.25% today, non-bank lenders were slashing rates ahead of the Big four.
<a href="https://www.athena.com.au/?gclid=Cj0KCQjw5J_mBRDVARIsAGqGLZCKwKfQxKUvNT0g33wrh6Kg2oBRfwJBwNSWn4iuj0nJVqF2uEWWJ6EaAqxjEALw_wcB" target="_blank">Athena</a> home loans announced it will be passing on the full rate cut.
Another passing on the full rate cut with rates as low as 2.89% is Reduce Home Loans.
Both Reduce Home Loans and Athena's cuts are effective immediately.
Reduce Home Loans was awarded Australia’s Cheapest Home Loan by Money magazine in 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019.
Resimac and subsidiary State Custodians have both announced they will be passing on the full July RBA rate cut, effective July 24.
The <a href="/expert-insights/finance/big-four-face-non-bank-lender-rate-cut-blitz">Big Four</a> were slower facing a blitz of quick cuts from non-bank lenders, however they have all announced their proposed rate changes which can be seen below.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/7/3/July%20Big%204-1.JPG" alt="">
(Source: Ratecity.com.au)
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

ME Bank announces July home loan rate cuts

<html><body>
Heritage Bank are the latest to announce they are cutting rates following the RBA's decision earlier in the month to cut for the first time since August 2016.
Heritage Bank haven't passed on the full rate cut, deciding to cut its variable home loan rates by 20 basis points.
Their Discount Variable home loan rate is now 3.57%, down from 3.77%.
Peter Lock, CEO of Heritage Bank, says the rates remained among the sharpest available in the market place.
He said Heritage had considered the best interests of all its customers, investors as well as borrowers, in coming to the decision.
“We have to think about both depositors and borrowers when we make these decisions.
“A 0.20% reduction in variable rates means our rates remain highly competitive, and strikes the right balance for us and our customers.”
Lock said Heritage’s customer-owned status meant it did not have the deep pockets of the big banks.
“We don’t set out to make massive profits, so our margins are lower than the big banks. In addition the big banks have a funding cost advantage that smaller customer-owned banks don’t enjoy. We continue to actively work with the Government to address this imbalance.  “Despite the imbalance we still have home loan interest rates that as a whole remain lower than those offered by the big banks.”
“We always make decisions to balance the best interests of all our customers at heart, not to maximise profit, so our rates stayed lower through that period.”
Of the big four banks, <a href="/news/cba-announce-full-rate-cut-after-june-rba-meeting">Commonwealth Bank</a> and <a href="/expert-insights/finance/nab-joins-cba-in-full-0-25-rate-cut-to-historic-lows">NAB</a> both passed on the full rate cute, while ANZ <a href="/expert-insights/finance/anz-first-to-pass-on-part-of-june-2019-rba-rate-cut">passed on 18 basis points</a> and Westpac <a href="/expert-insights/finance/westpac-to-cut-by-0-2-but-more-for-io-borrowers">passed on 20 basis points</a>.
Demand for fixed loans rising
Despite the declining variable rates across the majority of banks and lenders, it was demand for fixed rate home loans that rose in May.
According to new data from Mortgage Choice, fixed rate home loans rose over May, accounting for 22.47% of all home loans written.
Mortgage Choice CEO Susan Mitchell said over the last 12 months, fixed rates have accounted for 21.81% of all loans written.
"When you consider what has been happening in the market, the increase in demand is hardly surprising," Mitchell said.
<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/2019/6/20/Mortgage%20Choice%20May%20rates.jpg" alt="">
“Lenders on our panel have been aggressively discounting fixed rate home loan products, which has been effective in enticing more borrowers to commit to a fixed term.  “With rates as low as 3.49% p.a*., it’s unsurprising to see an increasing proportion of borrowers choosing to fix.” The data revealed that fixed rate demand was highest in Queensland, where 26% of borrowers opted for this type of home loan. 
This was followed by Western Australia, where 25% of borrowers chose to fix the interest rate on their home loan. Borrowers in Victoria were the least likely to fix, with 15% of borrowers choosing this type of product.   The most popular home loan products in May were ongoing discount Variable Rate loans followed by Basic Variable rates. “For those borrowers who may be considering fixing part or all of their home loan, now could be a good time to do so," Mitchell said.
"Current fixed-rate loan pricing presents good value by long-term standards. 
Mitchell suggested it is good new in particular for first home buyers who are looking to take advantage of government schemes and record low interest rates to enter the property market. 
“While news of low interest rates is certainly going to pique borrower interest, it’s equally important that borrowers remember the interest rate isn’t the only component of a home loan and they should look for the right loan product and features for their short and long-term needs." 
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jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

Rate cuts continue as Heritage Bank pass on 20 basis point cut

<html><body>
National Australia Bank, Australia's fourth largest bank, has announced it will be changing the special on its base variable rate from 3.69% to 3.87%.
Their shift to retain customers is a reaction to the tighter lending restrictions continuing to impact mortgage applications, which continue to slide.
NAB have shifted focus to maintaining their existing customers, which chief executive Andrew Thorburn said has put the bank in 'unchartered territory."
"The decision to stop chasing new business with aggressive discounts and to reward loyal customers has put the bank in uncharted territory after delivering a result that revealed further deterioration in its net interest margin," Thorburn said.
”The discount for the standard variable rate has continued to go up and up and up and up and so as the housing cycle has slowed that increases the pace and increases the intensity, it’s been a long-term trend and its got worse in the last two or three years."
From Friday 9 November, NAB’s Base Variable Rate Special Offer, which is available for new owner occupier principal and interest customers, will be 3.87%.
The change will only affect new customers taking out this product. This means existing customers will not experience a rate hike. 
From Friday, CBA will now have the lowest ongoing variable rate out of the big four banks.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2018/11/5/Nab%20Rates%20Hiked.JPG" alt="">
 
RateCity.com.au research director Sally Tindall said over the last six months NAB has been "a champion of competitive pricing, forcing other lenders to put low rates on the table".
"It is rare to see a bank hike an interest rate but grant immunity to their existing customers. NAB is clearly focused on backing its own customers, over potential new ones," she said.
While NAB has stepped back from low rate loans, HSBC and CBA both cut their owner occupier principal and interest rates, with HSBC now offering 3.59%, and CBA now offering 3.79% for new customers with 70% equity in their home.
 
 
 
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NAB announces variable rate hike for all new customers

<html><body>
NAB's low home loan rate has been queried as higher than portrayed.
Praised recently as the only big four bank to keep its variable interest rates stable in the recent out of cycle rate hikes, HashChing calculates NAB already had the highest variable rates of the big four.
HashChing's claim was based on the loan rates for each of the big four banks averaged across HashChing’s data from June, July, and August.
Westpac who were slammed for being the first to hike rates out of cycle actually had the lowest rates in the first three months of the fiscal year compared to the other big four banks.
HashChing is an online home loan marketplace.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2018/10/17/HashChing%20Graph.JPG" alt="">
Averaged over June, July, and August, NAB had the most expensive interest rates at 3.94%, 22 basis points above Westpac’s 3.72%.
On a $500,000 home loan, this difference amounts to $24,000 over the life of a loan.
The data also showed that with new loans, Westpac was again the best choice based on rates alone.
The worst choice for consumers taking out a new loan was ANZ whose rates were at a full 26 basis points higher than Westpac, ANZ customers would spend an additional $27,000 over the life of a loan.
"It’s not just ironic, it’s audacious for NAB to proudly claim they were rebuilding trust with Australians when in fact they had the highest rates to begin," HashChing CEO Mandeep Sodhi said.
"It’s no wonder faith in the financial system has been eroded.“
"Homeowners are stressed. It’s becoming harder than ever for Australians to refinance their loans. The tightening lending restrictions, a cooling housing market, and out-of-cycle rate hikes have all had a significant impact.”
Mr Sodhi urged consumers to do their research and engage with a mortgage broker in order to navigate the rapidly changing market and get the best offer possible.
He added, “what’s a fraction of a percent worth? Tens of thousands of dollars. That’s why it’s so crucial that homeowners have reputable brokers in their corner. They do the hard work for them and help protect them from extensive losses.”
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NAB have the most expensive home loan rates of the big four: HashChing

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National Australia Bank are electing not to hike their home loan rates and follow the other three of the big four banks.
Westpac raised their variable rates by 14 basis points late last month, <a href="/expert-insights/finance/westpac-is-the-first-of-the-big-four-banks-to-hike-out-of-cycle">the first to hike out of cycle.</a>
Last week <a href="/expert-insights/finance/cba-and-anz-hike-variable-home-loan-rates">ANZ raised their rates by 16 points</a> and were closely followed by Commonwealth Bank, the nation's largest lender, who hiked just 20 minutes later by 15 points.
NAB boss Andrew Thorburn said they need to rebuild the trust of their customers.
"By holding our NAB Standard Variable Rate longer, we help our customers for longer," Thorburn said in his statement.
“By focusing more on our customers, we build trust and advocacy, and this creates a more sustainable business.”
Thorburn said NAB will continue to regularly review its rates and assess whether current market conditions, including funding costs, continue.
Click here <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2018/9/10/big%204%20rates.jpg" target="_blank">to enlarge.</a>
<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/2018/9/10/big%204%20rates.jpg" alt=""> Source: RateCity.com.au
NAB's standard variable rate (SVR) for home loans sits at 5.24 percent.
RateCity.com.au research director Sally Tindall said NAB's announcement was 'exactly what home owners need.'
"NAB has heard the complaints from the government, regularors and most importantly their customers, and has acted," she said.
"It's great to see a bank putting its customers ahead of its profit margins."
New Prime Minister Scott Morrison has taken to Twitter to praise NAB.
"Good call by NAB not to life mortgage rates," he tweeted.
"They seem to get it."
The executive director of the Finance Brokers Association of Australia (FBAA) Peter White said the decision by NAB to stand out from the crowd was "a great step and shows strong support for its 900,000 plus customers."
“I predicted all the majors would follow Westpac when it raised its variable home loan rate less than two weeks ago.
"I am pleased my prediction was wrong.
"Thank you to NAB for bucking the trend."
The decisions by the ANZ and CBA to follow Westpac were as "predictable as they were unnecessary, and their existing customers should be complaining loudly and demanding better," Mr White said.
 
 
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NAB to hold home loan rates despite rival big four hikes

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The Reserve Bank of Australia could cut the official cash rate if banks raised their mortgage rates several times, economist Chris Caton has suggested.
So far this month, Westpac Banking Corporation, ANZ Banking Group and Commonwealth Bank of Australia have raised their mortgage rates by 0.14 to 0.16 percentage points citing increases on offshore funding costs.
The Reserve Bank of Australia has held the official overnight cash rate at 1.5 per cent for 25 months.
Dr Caton, a retired former chief economist with BT Financial group, told the Australian Institute of Superannuation Trustees conference in Cairns could cut the cash rate.
"Of course if the banks raised their variable rates again and again and the Reserve Bank was unhappy with that it would offset that – it would.
"There's no question about that.
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"But at the moment I think they're thinking, 'we're low enough, we've been low enough for long enough, we really don't want to cut any further, there is no case to raise, unemployment's coming down, growth's OK, let's keep it where it is."
Dr Caton said he didn't expect a housing crash," Fairfax Media reported.
Dr Caton said there are no bargains out there for investors in either housing or stocks "in part because interest rates have been as low as they have for as long as they have. But I don't see any risk of any crashes either". 
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RBA could cut official cash rate: Chris Caton

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Lenders have cut honeymoon rates on home loan products to stimulate growth as real estate markets slow.
Three of the top five mortgage lenders are offering discounts of up to 55 basis points for investors and home buyers on introductory rates. 
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<div>Banks with the new discounts include Commonwealth Bank, Westpac Group and Suncorp.</div>
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<div>Westpac is offering cuts of up to 50 basis points and free international trips.</div>
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<div>CBA has announced cuts of up to 30 basis points on its two-year variable rate introductory products covering principal and interest for owner occupiers and investors and interest-only borrowers.</div>
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Suncorp is increasing the discount on its one- and two-year fixed rates by 55 basis points to a headline rate of 3.99 per cent.
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Honeymoon home loans get cheaper

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Nearly half of Australian mortgage holders have experience a rate rise since August 2016, despite no RBA movement, new research from Mozo.com.au has found.
The comparison rate site suggested lenders are hitting existing borrowers with mortgage rate increases to fund compelling offers for new customers.
Their national survey found 44 percent of mortgage holders have a home loan rate above 4 percent, despite the new benchmark for owner occupier rates being under 3.7 percent.
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More than half of the lenders in the Mozo database now offer a rate under 3.70%. 
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Mozo director Kirsty Lamont says many mortgage holders consider the banks offerings to be 'good enough.' 
“By taking out the best mortgage for your needs, you can easily save tens of thousands of dollars over the course of a loan," Lamont said.
"What we're seeing is that many mortgage holders consider the banks offerings to be 'good enough' when really, they're offering their best deals for new customers while hiking rates for existing customers. 
“Whether you’ve had your home loan for one year, or twenty, it pays to check home loan offerings to ensure you’re getting the best deal for your needs. 
"Despite paltry offerings for many existing mortgage-holders, 42% of Australians believe their home loan rate is competitive and only 18% considered making the switch to a new lender.”
Mozo recently compared 525 home loans from 88 financial providers for the <a id="LPlnk936670" href="https://mozo.com.au/expertschoice/best-home-loans#winners">Mozo’s Expert’s Choice Awards</a> to find the most competitive offerings on the market for both owner occupier and investor home loans.
Newcastle Permanent took out home lender of the year while <a id="LPlnk562009" href="http://loans.com.au/">loans.com.au</a> won awards for both low cost, offset and investor home loan.
Click here <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2018/4/23/mozo_winners.jpg" target="_blank">to enlarge.</a>
<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/2018/4/23/mozo_winners.jpg" alt="">
Click here for the full list of <a id="LPlnk321404" href="https://mozo.com.au/expertschoice/best-home-loans">Mozo Expert Choice Home Loan</a> award winners.
Comparing loans, the Experts Choice home loan judges found that the potential savings between an average and competitive loan was up to $68,400 based on a typical loan of $350,000 over 30 years.
When it comes to customer satisfaction, the big four banks ranked poorly with 70 percent of mortgage holders feeling dissatisfied about their current mortgage rate. 
Despite this, only 17 percent consider making a switch. Smaller banks fared slightly better with nearly 60% of respondents believing their home loan is competitive.
Only 27 percent of Tasmanians have a rate above 4 percent compared to a whopping 63 percent of mortgage holders from Northern Territory. 
Interestingly, Tasmanians are fiercely loyal to their banks with an overwhelming 91 percent saying they would not consider switching banks.
 Mortgage holders in the 25-34-year-old age bracket were most like to switch with one in four considering a change in provider while only 8 percent of mortgage holders over 65 years consider making the switch.
“With the banks reserving their best and brightest deals for new customers, it’s worth shopping around to secure the best home loan for you. Mozo research shows that there are owner occupier home loans on the market with rates as low as 3.39%,” says Lamont.
 
 
  
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