Back in the 60s a woman screamed at Bob Menzies, "Wotcha gunna do ‘bout 'ousin’?" "I'd put an 'h' in front of it," was his swift reply. Our housing obsession is ingrained and this week we take a look at the history of interest rates.

Mortgage rates are the interest rates on loans used to buy homes. In Australia, mortgage rates fluctuate based on economic factors. To understand mortgage rates in Australia for 2024, you can look at forecasts, current news, and historical trends.

Using a mortgage calculator helps determine costs. Rates for 2023 and the last 5 years can show trends for first-time homebuyers and refinancing.

At an early sixties election rally, a woman screamed at Bob Menzies, “Wotcha gonna do ‘bout ‘cousin’?”

“I’d put an ‘h’ in front of it,” was his swift reply.

Their exchange took place over fifty years ago when interest rates were at record lows. The fact that people were complaining even then, shows how obsessed Australians have always been about ‘ousin’ affordability.

Interest rates and inflation usually move in opposite directions. The RBA uses this relationship to keep inflation under control—if inflation is high, they raise rates to cool demand. The below graphic shows mortgage rates since the 1960s. Notably, they average around 8% — nearly twice today’s.

Mortgage rates are the interest rates charged on home loans. Mortgage rates today vary depending on your location and financial profile. In the UK, Canada, and the USA, rates can fluctuate based on credit score impact, state mortgage rates, and whether you choose an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM). To get the best mortgage rates, compare mortgage lenders and consider points on a mortgage and closing costs.

Throughout the sixties, Australian mortgage rates were in the region of 5% and helped the 1970s economy begin strongly. But, a potent mix of the 1973-74 OPEC oil shocks and the Whitlam Government’s inflationary policies, saw mortgage rates take the fast elevator to 11% by 1974.

Soon, came the Decade of Greed — excess, easy credit, and market-liberating Reaganomics. High interest rates were used to slow the asset price boom before years of speculation ended in tears. Bondy landed in jail and Skasey malingered in his wheelchair. By June 1989, rates were a bruising 17%. The economy tanked in ‘the recession we had to have’ and most of the nineties were spent unwinding these excesses with rates around 8%.

The 1997 Asian financial crisis and the dot.com bust of the early 2000s, saw rates dip to 6% as the RBA scrambled to stimulate the economy. Then, just as the mining boom kicked off, the GFC gutted the global economy. Banks were lending at what was dubbed ‘crisis levels’ of around 5%.

And here we are now in a low growth, low inflation, flat wages economy. Heady debt levels are being fuelled by four years of phenomenal house growth. Today’s 4.5% rate is based on the RBA cash rate of 1.5%.

Will banks move soon to raise rates themselves, to meet rising funding costs? Watch this space.

Kay & Burton dominated the Mornington Peninsula property market in the last financial year, selling the most properties, with total sales of $270 million.

Looking for the best markets to explore on the Mornington Peninsula this weekend? You’re in luck! From fresh produce to local crafts, the Mornington Peninsula boasts a variety of markets to enjoy.

Check out the Mornington Peninsula markets calendar for 2024 to plan your visit. Don’t miss the Rosebud Market dates for a unique shopping experience. Support local businesses and indulge in the region’s finest offerings.

“It’s been a massive year at Portsea and Sorrento,” says Kay & Burton Porstea Director Liz Jensen.

“It’s been better than 2016-17, and we’ve had as many sales in winter as in summer.”

“In-season” sales from November to March were $60,817,500.

“Out-of-season” sales from July to October and April to June accounted for $68,334,750.

The average sale price was $2.189 million.

From multi-million-dollar clifftop stunners to much-loved old holiday homes, and one-bedroom units, Kay & Burton had the market covered.

At the top end of the market, 3808 Point Nepean Road Portsea, a clifftop residence on approximately 2,000 square meters with a swimming pool, views over the water, and private steps down to the beach, sold for more than $13 million.

A fully renovated French Mediterranean-style home with four bedrooms, and four bathrooms at 3732 Point Nepean Road, Portsea, fetched more than $6 million.

But sales were not only at the top end of the market. In March, a four-bedroom, much-loved, and tightly held beach house at 8 Grandview Avenue Rye sold for $680,000. An iconic beach house, surrounded by ancient Moonah trees at 4 John Bertram Drive, Sorrento, sold for $786,000 in May this year.

All of this shows that for all homes and in all seasons, vendors prefer Kay & Burton.

Noosa Waterfront Acreage: Top Tips for Luxury Living and Investment Bliss

News.com.au | 21 May 2024

Looking for your dream home in Noosa? Consider the allure of Noosa waterfront acreage. This prime real estate offers a blend of luxury living and serene surroundings. With options like waterfront homes in Noosa Heads or architecturally designed properties along the Noosa River, there’s something for every taste.

Whether it’s a holiday retreat or an investment opportunity, Noosa waterfront acreage promises Queensland acreage living at its finest. Explore your options and build your dream home in this scenic paradise.

A RARE Noosa waterfront acreage home that’s more luxury resort than house already has buyers booked to fly in for inspections just days after listing.

Called Eden, the 1.61-hectare property is in North Shore, about 700m by boat across the Noosa River from the Spit and the popular Hastings Street area.

Agent Adrian Reed, who’s marketing the property with Reed and Co co-colleague Darren Neal, told The Courier-Mail that the property at 2 Frying Pan Track was not just a premium size but in a premier position.

Noosa Houses lead Brisbane, Goldie

Love it or list it?

Massive city mansion hits market

“It’s new to the market and we’ve certainly got inspections lined up already. We’ve got people flying in to inspect the property so it’s really exciting. We’ve seen some strong interest. This sort of marquee position doesn’t come up often.”

Interest has come out of Queensland, Melbourne, and internationally, he said.

“It’s set on the bank of the Noosa River, near the river mouth so it’s protected in the river but only just across the water from Noosa Central and Hastings Street and all that Noosa has to offer there. It has the privacy and scale that feels like a resort yet the convenience of being close to all the things people love about Noosa.”

Among the home’s features were five-meter-high ceilings with electronic louvered windows, ducted airconditioning that runs off a 7kw solar system, over 1,000 sqm under the roof with enough space to comfortably accommodate 14 people, a kids retreat, a separate media room, an internal courtyard, fully tiled pool, outdoor gazebo and an external shed that can accommodate two boats. The current owners drive their boats from the beach to their backdoor.

With almost 17,000 sqm of land, the five-bedroom, four-bathroom, five-car space house was great for privacy, he said.

“It’s one of its most profound features. You can’t find a home of this scale in a normal residential position. You’d generally have to push beyond residential.”

“This is an interesting mix with more than enough room for friends and just across from popular (Noosa sites).”

The house is for sale by tender — applications for which close at 5 pm on October 19.

“This never-to-be-repeated opportunity is arguably one of Noosa’s most iconic properties,” was how Mr Reed listed the home.

Noosa’s North Shore has seen its median house price almost double in five years, according to CoreLogic.

FOLLOW SOPHIE FOSTER ON FACEBOOK

Originally published as Buyers lining up for rare Noosa waterfront acreage

Re-Published By – News.com.au

Aussie Cricket Legend Opens For ‘Rich And Famous’ Noosa Agency

Former Australian cricket captain Michael Clarke will be the keynote speaker at the launch of a new and independent agency in the tourism and property hotspot of Noosa on the Queensland Sunshine Coast.

Australian cricket legend, now retired, ventures into the luxury real estate market in Noosa, Queensland. This marks a significant transition in post-cricket careers for Australian cricketers, showcasing their diverse business ventures.

Selling high-end properties aligns with the trend of athlete career transitions into lucrative fields like celebrity real estate agents. Such moves emphasize the importance of financial planning and investing in property for retired athletes, fostering entrepreneurship, and building personal brands.

Agent Adrian Reed is the principal of the new office, Reed & Co., which will open its doors on 19 September.

Mr Reed said that he was delighted to have Michael Clarke’s support.

“I know Michael is passionate about property and he is also supportive of ventures which strive to achieve high performance,” the principal said.

“Reed & Co has been established to be a game-changer in the Noosa property sector, and there is nowhere more exciting in the Australian real estate market at the moment than Noosa.”

Mr Reed said that the latest REIQ data showed that Noosa had eclipsed both Brisbane and the Gold Coast as the strongest property market in Queensland.

“Not only is the region the home of the rich and famous and offers an enviable lifestyle with great weather, food, coffee, beaches, and rainforest, it is the hotspot for property.”

Mr Reed said that Reed & Co is a digitally focused real estate company, with $25 million in listings already.

“Reed & Co will be filling a gaping opportunity to lead the regional real estate market globally, making greater use of technology to connect with customers while maintaining cost-effective digital and traditional marketing.

“Our new high-performance agency will be a trailblazer in the regional real estate sector and offer customers a highly personalized experience.”

He said that Reed & Co would collaborate with like-minded businesses for the benefit of customers.

“We will be sharing our office space with these businesses who are in property finance, marketing, and other related sectors and supporting one another’s clients and aims.”

The Reed name is synonymous with real estate in Noosa spanning multiple generations.

The launch of Reed & Co will include an auction to raise funds for the Michael Clarke-backed charity, the Loyal Foundation.

Published By – REB

Discover Noosa Queensland’s Premier Property Investment Destination

Domain | 21 May 2024

Noosa, Queensland, nestled in Australia’s Sunshine Coast, is renowned for its pristine beaches, vibrant Hastings Street, and lush hinterland. Visitors flock to enjoy surfing, explore Noosa National Park, and cruise the picturesque Noosa River.

With easy access from Brisbane, Noosa offers diverse accommodation options, from cozy Airbnb to luxurious resorts. Experience the charm of this coastal gem, where the Great Barrier Reef and Eumundi Markets are within reach.

Noosa is on track to take out the title of Queensland’s best-performing property market for 2024, as new figures reveal it has delivered the strongest growth in the state over the past 12 months.

Noosa’s growth eclipsed that of both the Gold Coast and Brisbane, according to data from the Real Estate Institute of Queensland, making it Queensland’s most prestigious property market.

Home to the Sunshine Coast’s rich and famous, Noosa has long been sought after for its pristine beaches, heritage-listed rainforests, and low-density, boutique lifestyle.

But in the 12 months leading up to June, demand in the area reached new heights – the median house price grew 6.9 percent to $695,000 and units by an impressive 10.2 percent to $540,000.

It has been a heady year for the Noosa region – earlier this year a $22 million Sunshine Beach trophy home made headlines when it set a new record for the Sunshine Coast.

By rights, as one the biggest real estate deals in Queensland in recent years, the house at 21-23 Webb Road — a seven-bedroom, eight-bathroom beachfront estate — should have been a jaw-dropping, albeit rare, headline-stealer.

But Noosa was already up in lights. Less than two weeks earlier, Pat Rafter’s $18 million beachfront mansion had gone under contract.

REIQ chief executive Antonia Mercorella said Noosa had all the ingredients for price growth.

Noosa, Queensland’s charm lies in its pristine beaches, vibrant atmosphere, and a plethora of outdoor activities. While it may seem expensive, the allure of snorkeling, whale watching, and hiking amidst stunning landscapes justifies the cost. Yes, you can swim in the sea in Noosa, Queensland, where the weather is generally sunny and ideal for outdoor adventures.

From luxury resorts to cozy accommodations, Noosa offers something for every traveler’s taste and budget. Whether you’re seeking a family holiday or a romantic getaway, Noosa promises unforgettable experiences akin to those in Byron Bay or even New Zealand. Explore its map, indulge in delectable cuisine at its restaurants, or simply relax by the surf. Noosa, Queensland, is a slice of paradise waiting to be discovered.

“This is a highly desirable part of the world, with stunning natural features, world-class beaches, beautiful climate year-round, outstanding shopping and dining precincts, and, crucially, exclusivity,” she said.

“There is limited housing supply being added to Noosa and competition is driving price growth.

“Looking forward, once the Bruce Highway upgrades are completed and commuting to Brisbane becomes more feasible, we’ll likely see added demand for Sunshine Coast living.

“This area would benefit from greater supply levels, undoubtedly.”

Local prestige agent Adrian Reed of Reed & Co Estate Agents said Noosa’s success was not simply the result of cashed-up Sydney buyers.

Instead, he said, the region’s infrastructure boom was driving a shift in the demographic of Sunshine Coast buyers.

“Billions of dollars have been invested, including transport, tourism, and medical sector … the stimulus for growth on the back of these projects is reshaping the traditional buyer profiles,” he said.

Mr Reed brokered a record-breaking deal for a Noosa North Shore house last year that made headlines around the country for being Australia’s most unique beachfront estate.

The house was snapped up by a mystery buyer in a deal worth more than $10 million and Mr Reed said the momentum of the market had shown no signs of slowing down since then.

“I’ve just listed another incredible Noosa North Shore property at 2 Frying Pan Track and the interest has been very positive with buyers from interstate and internationally,” he said.

“Access to international travel and upgrades to digital infrastructure is enabling younger wealthy industry leaders and expats to buy in Noosa with confidence.

“This has already had a positive knock-on on effect the luxury property market in Noosa.

“When you couple this with traditional upward pressure from baby boomers capitalized from southern markets making a lifestyle transition, it’s creating great selling conditions for Spring.”

The rest of the Sunshine Coast region delivered similarly strong results for the year to June 2018.

Overall, the Sunshine Coast local government area grew 6.5 percent to a median house price of $575,000.

Previous frontrunner the Gold Coast continued its trajectory of strong growth, with the median house price increasing 4.5 percent to $622,031.

“This is not a completely unexpected result in the post-Games period as we see normal activity resume,” Ms Mercorella said.

The Gold Coast is the biggest apartment market in Queensland, selling more than 10,000 units in the 12 months to June 2018.

It was also one of the few unit markets in Queensland to deliver positive growth, adding a slender 0.9 percent to values to a median of $429,000.

Published By – Domain

Invest in Real Estate Like Michael Clarke: Top Tips from Reed & Co

The Courier-Mail | 21 May 2024

To invest in real estate like Michael Clarke, study Australian real estate investment trends, and build a celebrity real estate portfolio. Focus on property investment strategies that prioritize high-growth property markets in Australia.

Consider the tax benefits of property investment and the difference between an investment property and a primary residence. Engage a real estate agent or property advisor, and use debt wisely to build wealth through real estate. Always follow a real estate due diligence checklist to avoid common mistakes and ensure successful financial planning for property investment.

Former Aussie cricket captain Michael Clarke, who has done his fair share of real estate deals, has come in to bat for Noosa.

Mr Clarke, who was in Noosa last night for the launch of a new business on the Sunshine Coast, says good advice can be a game-changer.

He recommended buyers seek professional support before putting their cash to work in real estate.

He commented at the official launch of realty firm Reed & Co in the tourism and property hotspot.

More than 150 people were at the party hosted by award-winning agent Adrian Reed, including Clarke, Anthony Bell – celebrity accountant, and television presenter Kelly Landry.

Mr Clarke said there were similarities between business and sport.

“You need good advice, guidance, and great people to support you in making the right decisions,” he said.

Mr Bell told the crowd that he and Ms. Landry fell in love with Noosa after visiting for the first time in 2017 – so much so that they bought a home worth more than $10m there.

“My wife and I have traveled extensively throughout the world and we just love Noosa,” he said. “Our children adore it too.”

The Bell-founded charity, The Loyal Foundation, received a $6000 donation on the night courtesy of a generous auction bidder who won a five-hour luxury experience including a private return Ghost Air helicopter trip from Noosa to the Bribie Island Sandstone Point Hotel for four people.

Originally published as Michael Clarke bats for Noosa real estate

House Transformation & Renovation: Top 5 Affordable Upgrades for Modern Living

The Courier-Mail | 21 May 2024

House transformation involves a complete overhaul to create your dream home. In Australia and the UK, house transformations can include kitchen remodels, bathroom renovations, and landscaping overhauls.

With ideas from transformation shows on Netflix and dramatic before and after photos, these projects increase home value and enhance functionality. From Green Bay to anywhere, transformation houses can become truly inspiring homes.

Andrew and Kate Hay at the Noosa North Shore resort-style home they rescued from ruin and turned into a resort-style property. Photo: AAP/Megan Slade.Source: News Limited

On the banks of the Noosa River, looking out over a fortune in prime real estate, a dilapidated concrete shell sat for years awaiting its owner’s return.

Once upon a time, construction had begun in earnest on the multimillion-dollar property, but a family tragedy for the Singapore-based owner put everything else on the back burner. Eventually, the “shell” at 2 Frying Pan Track on Noosa’s tightly-held North Shore was put to market and, after a few hiccups, eventually sold for a “bargain” — if you dare call $2 million a bargain.

BEFORE: The concrete shell that was the house at 2 Frying Pan Track, Noosa North Shore, before it was transformed. Photo: Lachie Millard.Source: News Corp Australia

AFTER: The finished 2 Frying Pan Track, Noosa North Shore Qld 4565Source: Supplied

Enter Andrew and Kate Hay, an enthusiastic Brisbane couple, with a nous for luxury real estate and the courage to take on an abandoned project.

“The first thing that struck me was it was two hectares of land wrapped in a national park with the Noosa River right on the doorstep, amazing flora and fauna, and kangaroos jumping in the yard,” Mr. Hay told The Sunday-Mail.

“When I saw the building in its original state, it was really about realizing the original vision which was an unparalleled piece of paradise never to be repeated.”

The couple undertook due diligence to assess what risks there were, especially around the structure and town planning laws.

“Under new town planning now you can’t build houses of this scale, 1,000 sqm is a large home in itself. So we had to go back through the town planning process and get some comfort around that and the structure.”

BEFORE: The exterior of the property at 2 Frying Pan Track before it was renovated. Photo: Lachie Millard.Source: News Corp Australia

AFTER: The exterior of the property at 2 Frying Pan Track after the renovation.Source: Supplied

AFTER: The finished product after a major renovation.Source: Supplied

With that in place they engaged professionals including Vati Projects for construction and Grow Collective for landscaping to complete the dream project, spending “multiple millions” in the process.

“It was built extremely well originally so then it was a reasonably simple exercise with a few design tweaks here and there.”

The scale of the house meant they wanted to break the home up into sections and because it was built of concrete, they added elements to tie it into nature.

“We wanted to use organic and natural materials, so we brought in a lot of natural stone, imported a lot of marble and timbers sympathetic to the landscape here.”

“Landscaping is really important because it’s all about letting the house breathe.

“We laid a lot of lawn to give it a big tropical feel, big palm trees, it feels like a big tropical resort in Hawaii.

“We wanted to build something that would last forever.”

BEFORE: Chris Holand and Jenny Van Maanberg take a tour through 2 Frying Pan Track on Noosa North Shore when it was just a concrete shell. Photo: Lachie Millard.Source: News Corp Australia

AFTER: Inside the house at 2 Frying Pan Track, Noosa North Shore, after it was renovated.Source: Supplied

AFTER: Inside the house at 2 Frying Pan Track, Noosa North Shore, after the renovation.Source: Supplied

They named it Eden — almost 17,000 sqm of waterfront land, with a sprawling five-bedroom luxury home packed with everything a modern family could wish for.

Just across the river from some of Noosa’s most popular spots including the highly popular Hastings Street, it has five-meter high ceilings with electronic louvered windows, ducted airconditioning that runs off a 7kw solar system, enough space to comfortably accommodate 14 people, kids retreat, separate media room, internal courtyard, fully tiled pool, outdoor gazebo and an external shed that can accommodate two boats.

They’ve spent weeks with family and friends in the completed home “and had an amazing time”.

“It’s so close to Noosa and its amenities. We duck across on the boat. It’s eight minutes to dive from the ferry.”

“When you wake up here sometimes you have to pinch yourself because it’s paradise.”

BEFORE: The outside of the 2 Frying Pan Track when was a dilapidated concrete shell. Photo: Lachie Millard.Source: News Corp Australia

AFTER: The transformation of 2 Frying Pan Track, Noosa North Shore, is amazing. Source: Supplied

AFTER: The outdoor entertaining and pool area at the property after the renovation.Source: Supplied

Mr. Hay believes a very astute buyer would snap it up “because, in the long run, they are going to be served very well by the property”.

Their real estate agent Adrian Reed was astounded at the result: “You can’t find a home of this scale in a normal residential position. You’d generally have to push beyond residential.”

He has the property up for sale by tender, applications for which close at 5 pm on Friday, October 19. “This never-to-be-repeated opportunity is arguably one of Noosa’s most iconic properties.”

For the Hays, it’s going to be satisfying to see a family enjoy their hard work.

“What would make us most happy is to see this go to a buyer that will enjoy it for years. We’ve been able to stay here and enjoy it ourselves. We’ve had friends and family up through the school holidays. We love the Noosa lifestyle up here and one day we’d love to make this area a permanent home.”

RENO FACT CHECK:

Time taken: About 12 months

Total spend: $2m plus

End valuation: Not disclosed