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

Mortgage Choice

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Accusations from Mortgage Choice franchisees accusing the aggregator of running a harsh business model and remuneration structure have triggered a promise to change its remuneration model.
Mortgage Choice released an announcement on the ASX yesterday in response to an investigation by Fairfax Media and ABC’s 7.30. The investigation had been looming for some time among tweets as franchisees readied to set up a fund to take legal action.
Towards the end of last year they agreed to commit $200,000, but put this on hold after Mortgage Choice said it would review the structure.
The media report outlined how the broker previously employed an up-front commission model and changed this to a performance-based model based on loan targets in the wake of the 2007-2008 Global Financial Crisis. 
But it never changing back to the original structure once the crisis had passed.
The recently appointed Mortgage Choice chief executive Susan Mitchell admitted the model was “outdated.”
In the ASX statement from company secretary David Hoskins, Mortgage Choice advised it would be working closely with franchisees about a more “competitive remuneration model”.
The statement said the purpose of this would be to “increase franchisee remuneration and reduce franchisee income volatility to allow them to grow their business and assist more customers with their home loan needs”.
CEO of Mortgage Choice, Susan Mitchell, said she anticipated the changes would support the long term sustainable growth of Mortgage Choice.
“We want to continue to help Australians with their financial services needs for many years to come and having thriving, growing franchisees that have the confidence to invest in their business is critical to achieving this.”
Mortgage Choice expects to finalise a new remuneration model in this coming July and implement an opt-in basis across the network in August.
Documents suggest almost half of Mortgage Choice’s franchisees were considering legal action to get a better and fairer remuneration scheme.
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Mortgage Choice saw its shares plunge 40 per cent on Tuesday after Fairfax and the ABC reported 173 of its franchisees were considering a fighting fund to take on the home loan giant. Shares were up 1 percent in Wednesday morning trade.
<a href="http://www.abc.net.au/7.30/" target="_blank" title="www.abc.net.au">On ABC’s 7.30</a>, a number of struggling Mortgage Choice franchisees spoke about having to sell their houses because of their financial struggles brought on by the business.
Franchisees are reportedly being pressured to sign $1.5 million in loans per month, much higher than the national average of any other company.
If brokers fail to meet that target, Mortgage Choice takes a greater section of the franchisee’s profit.
Melbourne franchisee Russell Chellew told the program he’s become physically sick since owning his own Mortgage Choice franchise.
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Mortgage Choices advised shareholder that change in the remuneration model does not affect the FY2018 cash result.
"Market updates will include guidance on a one off adjustment to the FY2018 IFRS result based on the change in the average payout rate to franchisees once this is known."
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Mortgage Choice moves quickly to quell franchisee revolt 

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First home buyers are delaying or missing the opportunity to get into the property market by not engaging a guarantor on their home loan, new data shows.  According to Mortgage Choice and CoreData’s Evolving Great Australian Dream 2018 whitepaper, just 4.9% of all first home buyers said they used a guarantor to purchase their property.  However, bucking the trend are home buyers aged 29 years and below, of which 21.8% had someone go guarantor on their mortgage. 
Mortgage Choice CEO Susan Mitchell said the data raises the question that many are divided on.
"Are first home buyers missing an opportunity to get into the property market by not engaging a guarantor?”
Currently, the average first-time buyer needs to put down approximately $100,000 in deposit to secure a property with the median dwelling value of $554,605.  “For many first-time buyers, the biggest hurdle they face is saving a sufficient deposit that amounts to 20% of the purchase price, and this has been made even harder by strong property price growth over recent years,” Ms Mitchell said.  The whitepaper found that 40% of buyers would need some form of assistance to enter the property market, as they had just 15% or less of the required deposit for a property. “The Government’s new plan to allow older Australians to stay in their homes for longer, as part of the ‘More Choice Longer Life Plan’ is likely to hinder the supply of available properties to those looking to buy their first home.," Ms Mitchell said. A variety of factors is making it increasingly difficult for people to achieve the traditional Australian dream, say 86.4% of people asked by Mortgage Choice. “One way first home buyers can get a leg up onto the property ladder is to access intergenerational wealth, created by the boom in the property market, and ask a parent to be a guarantor by offering their own home as extra security,” Ms Mitchell said.  “This strategy lets them get onto the property ladder sooner rather than later, and with a smaller deposit and has the added advantage of avoiding Lenders’ Mortgage Insurance, which can total thousands of dollars for cash-strapped first home buyers.”  The whitepaper research revealed that on a whole, 15.2% of prospective home buyers across Australia would have someone go guarantor on their loan. This figure dropped to 12.6% for females.  On a state by state comparison, Western Australia had the highest proportion of prospective buyers saying that they would have a guarantor on their mortgage, at 16.5%. They were followed by New South Wales at 13.9% and Victoria at 13.3%.  Of those who purchased with a guarantor, 77.2% said their  parents were their guarantor.  Ms Mitchell said it was important for buyers and their prospective guarantor to weigh up the pros and cons before making a decision.  “Having a family member go guarantor on a mortgage is not without risk and as such, no one should jump into the situation until they’ve given it considerable thought,” she said.  “If the first home buyer defaults on their home loan, the guarantor becomes responsible for paying their debt. This can be a significant financial impost for the guarantor as it can affect their ability to cope with their own day to day costs, which in turns compromises their financial wellbeing.  “Their own ability to borrow money will also be reduced after they agree to become a guarantor.  “As a result, it is very important for both the buyer and the guarantor to set clear expectations from the outset and think carefully about their future plans.  “If a buyer has a guarantor on a home loan, it is essential they speak with a qualified mortgage broker and a solicitor to protect both parties. A contract can be drawn up that clearly explains how the loan will be structured and what happens in the event that the borrower defaults on their loan. “It is helpful to note that a guarantor is not tied to the loan for its entire duration. Once a buyer has built up sufficient equity in their property, a guarantor can apply to be released from the loan, though this may incur a fee.  “Lastly, buyers should always look at their other options as a guarantor is not the only way that someone can purchase a property. A buyer can receive a one-off financial gift to help cover part or all of the cost of the deposit, which reduces the risk to a potential guarantor,” concluded Ms Mitchell.  
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Only five percent of FHB's using an intergenerational guarantor: Mortgage Choice

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John Flavell, chief executive officer at Mortgage Choice Limited, has stepped down from his role immediately after the appointment of Susan Mitchell as the new CEO.
Susan Mitchell was most recently chief financial officer.  John Flavell has been there for just over the past three years. Mortgage Choice Chairman, Vicki Allen thanked John for his leadership and efforts at Mortgage Choice during his tenure as CEO, "and wish him well in his future endeavors”. Ms Mitchell’s extensive experience and existing senior role within the Company meant she was very well placed to step into the CEO position. Ms Allen said she was delighted Susan has reconsidered her recently announced intention to pursue another opportunity and instead lead our business. 
"The Board has confidence that she has the necessary skills to lead Mortgage Choice. 
"She is a very talented executive and her in-depth experience with the company will ensure a smooth transition of leadership."
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Mortgage Choice CEO John Flavell steps down

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GUEST OBSERVER
A majority of Australians are optimistic about the state of the property market and will continue to invest in this space, new research has revealed.      According to new data from Mortgage Choice, 64.3% of Australians believe the housing market will continue to perform the same as it has in recent years, if not better.  This data makes it obvious that the majority of Australians remain upbeat about investing in property and will continue to buy and sell dwellings. Over the past few weeks, we have heard endless commentary about an ‘inevitable slowdown’ in the property market.  According to data from CoreLogic, property price growth has started to stagnate in recent months. Over the three months to November, property prices grew just 0.4% across the combined capital cities.  As a result, many market commentators have started to panic and are suggesting that this is the beginning of the end. Some commentators have even gone so far as to suggest we could soon see a property price crash across some of the bigger markets, notably Sydney and Melbourne.  The reality is, property prices are merely stabilising after a few years of runaway growth. This stabilisation is something we have long expected.  The fact is, significant changes have been made to investment lending policy in recent months. Moreover, interest rates have been sitting at historical lows for well over 12 months and will continue to sit at historically low levels for some time yet. Both of these things have combined to take some of the heat out of the market. And while the heat has started to come out of the market, Mr Flavell said there were no signs to suggest a property crash was on the radar in Australia.  For a crash to occur in the housing market, there would need to be a number of economic factors at play.
Firstly, supply would need to be significantly high enough that it exceeded demand. Secondly, the cost of borrowing money would need to rise rapidly in a very short period of time, and unemployment would also need to reach dramatically high levels.  Moreover, there would need to be a large number of people looking to liquidate their properties at the same time.  If all those factors were to occur, a crash could be a possibility, but based on how our economy is travelling at the moment, it is fair to say that we are not in for a crash.  According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), Australia’s population grew 1.6% over the year to March 2017 – which is significantly higher than other developed nations.  In total numbers, our population grew by 389,100 over the past year, and all of those people need somewhere to live. If we want to cater to our growing population, we need to build more properties, and that is exactly what we are doing.  So, supply and demand are working in good kilter with one another. At the same time, interest rates are low and we expect them to stay lower for longer. Meanwhile, the unemployment rate is trending downwards, with the latest data from the ABS showing that the unemployment rate fell 0.1% throughout September to 5.5%. When you consider all of the above economic data, there is nothing to suggest that a property price crash is in our near future.  In fact, the opposite is true. With interest rates sitting at all-time lows, lenders competing for business and property price growth stagnating across some markets, now was a good time for prospective buyers to achieve their property goals.  If you have plans to be in the property market, now is the right time achieve your goals.
John Flavell is the chief executive officer of Mortgage Choice.
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What bubble? Majority of Australians ‘optimistic’ about property: John Flavell

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Home loan demand rose for the third consecutive month, according to new data.
The Australian Bureau of Statistics’ Housing Finance data showed 56,464 home loans were approved over the month of July, up 2.9% from the previous month.
“July was the third consecutive month of growth for home loan approvals,” Mortgage Choice chief executive officer John Flavell said.
“Historically low interest rates are helping to keep heat in the property market and borrowers are clearly keen to take advantage of this.”  
While the number of home loan approvals rose, the value of dwelling commitments fell 0.9% to $33.03 billion over the month of July.
“This can be attributed to the drop in the value of investment loans approved.
“During the month of July, $12.06 billion in investment loans were approved – down 3.9% from the previous month.
“I am not surprised to see a downwards shift in investment demand," he said.
Changes have made it hard for some investors to qualify for finance.
Looking ahead, Mr Flavell said he expected home loan demand to be strong.
“We are now in spring, which is generally the busiest period for the property market, so I would expect to see home loan demand remain robust."
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Home loan demand rises for third consecutive month

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GUEST OBSERVER
Nearly one in three Australian investors are worried about the rising cost of living, according to new data.  
Mortgage Choice’s Investor Survey found the increasing cost of living was the biggest issue facing Australian investors over the coming 12 months. 
I am not surprised to hear that so many property investors are worried about the cost of living.
Every day expenses such as gas, electricity, childcare, and transportation continue to rise every year, which is bound to negatively impact the hip pocket of all Australians, including property investors. 
On top of that, wage growth continues to stagnate, with the latest data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics showing wages grew just 1.9% over the 12 months to June 2017. 
According to the Investor survey, one in five investors were also worried about job security, while a further 15% were worried about rising interest rates. 
Perhaps most surprisingly, our data found one in four investors were actually concerned about rising property prices. This would suggest property investors are constantly looking to expand their portfolio of assets and, as such, don’t want property to become so expensive that it is out of reach.
There are a number of strategies investors can take to lessen the impact of the rising cost of living and rising interest rates. 
While you may not be able to control the inevitable rise in everyday living expenses or interest rates, you can control where you spend your money and how much money you save. 
With good strategic planning, you can ensure that you’re able to afford your mortgage repayments and your lifestyle now and into the future.
In the first instance, its pays to take the time to draw up a budget for your pay cycle, including all of your incomings and outgoings throughout that period. 
Make sure you are detailed so that you can identify where your money is going and where you may be able to cut back. It is important to set aside a regular portion of your income as savings. This money can then be used as an emergency fund for a rainy day. 
Moreover, whether you’ve had your mortgage for a short time or a while, it is always a good time to have your home loan checked. 
Your local broker can look at your current product and compare it with others on the market. They may be able to help you find a product with a sharper rate that will end up saving you thousands of dollars.
Investors wanting to make to make their money work harder for them should also consider speaking with a financial adviser.  
Even if you are comfortable with your current financial situation, it is worth speaking to a financial planner who can assess your financial situation and create a personalised plan to help you reach your goals. 
 
John Flavell is chief executive officer <a href="https://www.mortgagechoice.com.au/" target="_blank">Mortgage Choice</a>.
 
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

1 in 3 investors concerned about cost of living: John Flavell

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Home loan approval data for July shows  fixed rate home loans accounted for 29.63 percent of all loans written throughout the month according to Mortgage Choice.
This is its highest level in more than three years, say Mortgage Choice.
John Flavell, Mortgage Choice chief executive officer said this is the highest level of demand we have seen for fixed rate home loans since December 2013, when fixed rate home loans accounted for 33.06 percent of all loans written.
“The surge in popularity for this type of product does not come as much of a surprise when we look at what’s been taking place in the market in recent weeks," he said.
“A few of Australia’s lenders have lowered the interest rates charged on some of their fixed rate products, with some trimming up to 10 basis points from their four and five year rates.
"As a result, many of the fixed rate home loans now on offer are very competitively priced.
“Of course, this isn’t the only activity taking place in the market.
"In recent weeks, many of Australia’s lenders have introduced a raft of other policy and pricing changes.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/08/03/Chart-2.jpg" target="_blank">Click 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/2017/08/03/Chart-2.jpg" alt="">
“Some lenders have significantly increased their interest only pricing across both their investment and owner-occupied products.
"These changes have helped make the mortgage market more complex than ever before.
“Subsequently, borrowers wanting certainty and security over their repayments for a set period of time are increasingly turning to a fixed rate mortgage.
"Fixed rate demand rose in every state throughout the month of July. 
"Western Australia had the highest proportion of borrowers opting for a fixed loan, with the product making up 35.77 percent of loans written throughout July.
"Not far behind was New South Wales, where fixed rate loans accounted for 33.59 percent of all loans written, and Queensland, where fixed rate loans accounted for 28.08 percent of all loans written.
"Overall, variable rate loans remained the most popular product for borrowers in Australia, particularly ongoing discount loans.
"It remained to be seen whether borrowers continued to flock towards the perceived safety of fixed rate home loans, or ride the changes in the market by selecting a variable rate product.
“Borrower demand for certain products will be dictated by what happens in the market.
“For example, if we continue see added complexity in the market - with lenders making changes to their pricing and policy - I would expect to see more borrowers opting for the security of a fixed rate loan.
"Borrowers and prospective buyers needed to remember that home loan rates are still hovering around historically low levels.
“Whether you’re looking to buy your first property, upgrade, refinance or even renovate, now it a great time to make your property goals a reality.”
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Fixed rate demand hits three year high

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Fresh data has found that more than one in four first home buyers are prepared to compromise on space, in order to get a foothold into the Australian property market.
Mortgage Choice and Core Data’s Evolving Great Australian Dream whitepaper discovered 27.6 percent of first home buyers would be happy to buy a small dwelling in order to get into the market.
According to Mortgage Choice chief executive officer, John Flavell (pictured), the Great Australian Dream of homeownership is becoming increasingly difficult, with property prices climbing across many different markets, specifically Sydney and Melbourne.
“First home buyers understand that buying property is difficult and they may not be able to buy the exact home they want, or exactly where they want,” Flavell said.
“That said, first home buyers are, on the whole, very financially savvy and they see the benefit of getting their foot on the property ladder sooner rather than later. As such, they are prepared to use different home buying strategies to make their property purchase goals a reality.”
Another popular purchasing strategy amongst first home buyers was buying in the outer suburbs or further away, with 25% of respondents saying they would employ this tactic.
“Our data shows that one in four first home buyers are willing to buy in the outer suburbs or further away from where they would prefer to live. These properties are likely to be cheaper and more affordable, and while this may appear to be a trade-off, it will be worth it in the long run,” he said.
“Once you have built up adequate equity in your property, you can then upgrade and renovate or buy a bigger and better property.”
A third strategy that first home buyers were likely to use was seeking financial support from family, which could take the form of a monetary gift or having a parent go guarantor on a home loan.
“The challenge for first home buyers these days is saving a sufficient deposit. As such, it is no surprise to see a significant number of first home buyers stating that they would look for financial assistance from family in order to make their property goals a reality.”
Flavell added that it was important for first home buyers to remember that property was a long-term investment.
“It is undeniably tough for first home buyers to get onto the property market, but it is not impossible. At the end of the day, property is a long-term investment that will require buyers to take various steps before they can own their ideal home,” he said.
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First home buyers willing to compromise on space to buy 

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New data has found a growing proportion of borrowers are seeking the security that comes with a fixed rate home loan, according to the latest national home loan approval data from Mortgage Choice.
Fixed rate home loans accounted for 22 percent of all loans written in December, up from 19.5 percent in the month prior.
“This is the fourth consecutive month that we have seen fixed rate demand increase,” Mortgage Choice chief executive officer John Flavell said.
“With speculation mounting that the Reserve Bank of Australia could soon lift the official cash rate, it is clear that a growing proportion of borrowers wish to beat any potential rate hikes by opting for a fixed rate home loan.”
Mr Flavell said current market conditions combined with a spate of rate increases by Australia’s lenders meant a rate rise by the Reserve Bank this year was now more likely than not.
“In December, the United States’ Central Bank announced it would increase the Federal Funds rate by 25 basis points to 0.75 percent.
Furthermore, the bank indicated that the Federal Funds rate could rise by a further 75 basis points throughout 2017 – through three separate rate increases.
“Closer to home, many of Australia’s lenders have already started to raise rates across their suite of home loan products.
In addition, the Reserve Bank of Australia has stated that the time for easing the monetary policy setting has now passed.
All of these factors combined would suggest that a rate increase by the Reserve Bank could be right around the corner.
“Borrowers understand this and that is why a growing proportion of mortgage holders are opting for fixed rate products.”
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/01/09/variable_rate.jpg" target="_blank">Click 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/2017/01/09/variable_rate.jpg" alt="">
Across the country, fixed rate demand was highest in New South Wales, with this type of product accounting for 27.34 percent of all loans written throughout the month of December.
“Queensland wasn’t far behind, with fixed rate home loans accounting for 24.64 percent of all loans written within the state.
At the other end of the spectrum, fixed rate demand was lowest in Victoria, with this type of product making up just 12.69 percent of all home loans written,” he said.
“Looking ahead, I wouldn’t be surprised to see fixed rate demand continue to rise across most of the states as a growing proportion of borrowers look to beat the threat of rising rates.”
<table style="width: 403px;" border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="left"><tbody>
<tr>
<td nowrap width="101">
 
 
</td>
<td colspan="2" nowrap width="56">
NSW/ACT
</td>
<td colspan="2" nowrap width="60">
VIC/TAS
</td>
<td colspan="2" nowrap width="60">
QLD
</td>
<td colspan="2" nowrap width="60">
SA/NT
</td>
<td colspan="2" nowrap width="67">
WA
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="2" valign="bottom" nowrap width="115">
 Variable
</td>
<td colspan="2" valign="bottom" nowrap width="56">
72.66%
</td>
<td colspan="2" valign="bottom" nowrap width="60">
87.31%
</td>
<td colspan="2" valign="bottom" nowrap width="60">
75.36%
</td>
<td colspan="2" valign="bottom" nowrap width="60">
84.45%
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="52">
83.91%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="101">
Basic Variable
</td>
<td colspan="2" valign="bottom" nowrap width="56">
9.76%
</td>
<td colspan="2" valign="bottom" nowrap width="60">
16.04%
</td>
<td colspan="2" valign="bottom" nowrap width="60">
25.14%
</td>
<td colspan="2" valign="bottom" nowrap width="60">
33.53%
</td>
<td colspan="2" valign="bottom" nowrap width="67">
15.66%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="101">
Standard Variable
</td>
<td colspan="2" valign="bottom" nowrap width="56">
10.74%
</td>
<td colspan="2" valign="bottom" nowrap width="60">
21.01%
</td>
<td colspan="2" valign="bottom" nowrap width="60">
7.17%
</td>
<td colspan="2" valign="bottom" nowrap width="60">
13.77%
</td>
<td colspan="2" valign="bottom" nowrap width="67">
13.42%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="101">
Ongoing Discount
</td>
<td colspan="2" valign="bottom" nowrap width="56">
46.96%
</td>
<td colspan="2" valign="bottom" nowrap width="60">
43.43%
</td>
<td colspan="2" valign="bottom" nowrap width="60">
36.61%
</td>
<td colspan="2" valign="bottom" nowrap width="60">
32.59%
</td>
<td colspan="2" valign="bottom" nowrap width="67">
51.52%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="101">
Line of Credit
</td>
<td colspan="2" valign="bottom" nowrap width="56">
1.32%
</td>
<td colspan="2" valign="bottom" nowrap width="60">
1.58%
</td>
<td colspan="2" valign="bottom" nowrap width="60">
0.61%
</td>
<td colspan="2" valign="bottom" nowrap width="60">
1.03%
</td>
<td colspan="2" valign="bottom" nowrap width="67">
0.86%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="101">
Introductory Rate
</td>
<td colspan="2" valign="bottom" nowrap width="56">
3.88%
</td>
<td colspan="2" valign="bottom" nowrap width="60">
5.25%
</td>
<td colspan="2" valign="bottom" nowrap width="60">
5.83%
</td>
<td colspan="2" valign="bottom" nowrap width="60">
3.53%
</td>
<td colspan="2" valign="bottom" nowrap width="67">
2.45%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="2" valign="bottom" nowrap width="115">
 Fixed
</td>
<td colspan="2" valign="bottom" nowrap width="56">
27.34%
</td>
<td colspan="2" valign="bottom" nowrap width="60">
12.69%
</td>
<td colspan="2" valign="bottom" nowrap width="60">
24.64%
</td>
<td colspan="2" valign="bottom" nowrap width="60">
15.55%
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="52">
16.09%
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
 
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Fixed rate home loan demand surges again

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A survey of first home buyers has found most would not consider asking parents to go guarantor on their home loan
The annual First Home Buyer survey from Mortgage Choice found Victoria had highest proportion of first home buyers who would not ask parents for help.
Mortgage Choice chief executive officer John Flavell said 59.7 percent of respondents to the survey would not consider asking their parents to go guarantor on their home loan and one reason is because they don’t understand what guarantor loans are and how they work. 
“While guarantor loans have been around for a while, they have only enjoyed a surge in popularity in recent times," he said.
"As such, many first home buyers may not even be aware that guarantor loans exist.
“In addition, some first home buyers may feel as though they need to be able to prove they can buy a home on their own and don’t want to burden their parents by asking them to go guarantor on their loan.
“Nearly 65 percent of Victorian-based first home buyers said they would not consider asking their parents to go guarantor on their loan.
"With home prices rising month after month, many first home buyers were finding it increasingly difficult to get their foot onto the property ladder without some form of financial assistance.
<table border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="198">
Would you consider asking your parents to go guarantor on your loan?
</td>
<td width="44">
National
</td>
<td width="44">
NSW
</td>
<td width="44">
VIC
</td>
<td width="44">
QLD
</td>
<td width="44">
SA
</td>
<td width="44">
WA
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="198">
Yes
</td>
<td valign="top" width="44">
35.7%
</td>
<td valign="top" width="44">
43.8%
</td>
<td valign="top" width="44">
32.5%
</td>
<td valign="top" width="44">
37.5%
</td>
<td valign="top" width="44">
31.9%
</td>
<td valign="top" width="44">
33.7%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="198">
No
</td>
<td valign="top" width="44">
59.7%
</td>
<td valign="top" width="44">
52.7%
</td>
<td valign="top" width="44">
64.9%
</td>
<td valign="top" width="44">
59.2%
</td>
<td valign="top" width="44">
58.5%
</td>
<td valign="top" width="44">
62.9%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="198">
My parents and I don't know/ understand what guarantor is
</td>
<td valign="top" width="44">
4.6%
</td>
<td valign="top" width="44">
3.5%
</td>
<td valign="top" width="44">
2.6%
</td>
<td valign="top" width="44">
3.3%
</td>
<td valign="top" width="44">
9.6%
</td>
<td valign="top" width="44">
3.4%
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
“Not only are property prices rising across most capital cities, but all of the states have now removed the first home buyer grant for those wishing to purchase an established dwelling.
He said according to Mortgage Choice data more than 80 percent of first home buyers will look to purchase an established dwelling, meaning the vast majority of first timers will not receive any type of government financial incentive.
“With that in mind, there are plenty of reasons why a first home buyer may need financial assistance from their family. And while it is clear the majority of first home buyers are uncomfortable about asking a parent to go guarantor on their loan, there is a lot of benefits associated with this type of loan structure.   
“A guarantor can not only help first home buyers get their foot on the property ladder sooner rather than later, but they can also help them to avoid paying potentially costly Lenders Mortgage Insurance.
He stressed it was important to speak to a mortgage professional.
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