Housing Affordability at Breaking Point – Insights with Dr. Nicola Powell

Australia’s housing market is at a crossroads.

For first-home buyers, the dream of ownership has never felt further away – with deposits taking more than 8 years to save and mortgage repayments eating up over half of disposable incomes.

Yet, at the same time, buyer demand is powering ahead, clearance rates are hitting multi-year highs, and spring is shaping up to be supercharged.

How can both of these things be true? And what does it mean for you – whether you’re buying, renting, or investing?

Today I’m going to sit down with Dr. Nicola Powell, Domain’s Chief of Research and Economics to unpack their latest affordability report and market insights.

Today's episode of the Michael Yardney Podcast is a conversation you don't want to miss if you want to get some clarity on what's going on in our housing market.

 

Takeaways 

·         The typical household now takes longer to save for a deposit.

·         First home buyer grants are changing the market dynamics.

·         Younger Australians are facing significant barriers to home ownership.

·         Affordability is reshaping buyer demand and preferences.

·         There is a notable shift towards multi-generational living arrangements.

·         Auction clearance rates indicate a positive market momentum.

·         The rental market remains competitive for tenants.

·         Days on market for properties are stretching in some areas.

·         Investors are returning to the market with confidence.

·         Market conditions are uneven across different cities.

 

 

Chapters 

02:05 - Affordability Crisis: Eight Years to Save a Deposit 

04:29 - First Home Buyer Schemes Reshape Market Demand 

05:53 - Generational Divide in Home Ownership Rates 

08:38 - Buyer Search Trends: Granny Flats and Heritage Homes 

13:33 - Supercharged Spring Market and Days on Market Shifts

 

Links and Resources:

 

Answer this week’s trivia question here- www.PropertyTrivia.com.au

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Michael Yardney – Subscribe to my Property Update newsletter here 

 

Dr Nicola Powell, Chief of Research and Economics at Domain 

 

Domain reports:

1.     Domain’s key words and hotspot report. https://www.domain.com.au/research/this-springs-housing-buzz-top-keywords-homes-hotspots-1427073/

 

 

2.     Affordability at breaking point. https://www.domain.com.au/research/the-home-ownership-puzzle-affordability-at-breaking-point-1423719/

 

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