Investor borrowing moderating, even before latest tightening measures
Housing lending to property investors softened in March, says Malcolm Gunning, president of the REIA, even before regulators and banks tightened lending to investors and before budget initiatives aimed at property investment were announced.
Budget not enough to help affordability in Sydney, Melbourne, but good news for the rest of Australia
The budget's First Home Super Savers Scheme might alleviate some housing affordability pressures, but is unlikely to help first-home buyers who want to live close to the city in Sydney and Melbourne.
'Sledgehammer' approach to risky lending could hurt economy: REIA
Malcolm Gunning, president of the REIA, has warned that the combined actions of APRA, ASIC and the banks could decrease demand for new properties to such an extent that housing supply dwindles and the construction sector weakens.
First-home buyers who use their superannuation to purchase their own home could end up with larger 'nest eggs' at retirement than if they continued to rent their whole lives, says the REIA.
REIA launches new course for agents wishing to provide financial information
The REIA has teamed up with the Institute of Public Accountants to launch a new training course for real estate agents who wish to provide financial information about property investment.
Damian Percy, general manager of Adelaide Bank, says affordability won't improve while there is an unwillingness to "confront" voters who are "enjoying structural advantages that continue to keep a fire under house prices".
