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Market movements & economic review – October 2023

October 9, 2023

Stay up to date with what’s happened in Australian markets over the past month.

Household wealth has grown for the third quarter in a row, rising by 2.6% in the June quarter, pushed up by rising house prices and increases in super balances.

Click here for our October update video.

Please get in touch on 03 9723 0522 if you’d like assistance with your personal financial situation.


Suite 2, 1 Railway Crescent
Croydon, Victoria 3136

Email: integrityone@iplan.com.au

Telephone : 03 9723 0522

Integrity One Facebook

This information is of a general nature and does not take into consideration anyone’s individual circumstances or objectives. Financial Planning activities only are provided by Integrity One Planning Services Pty Ltd as a Corporate Authorised Representative No. 315000 of Integrity Financial Planners Pty Ltd ABN 71 069 537 855 AFSL 225051. Integrity One Planning Services Pty Ltd and Integrity One Accounting and Business Advisory Services Pty Ltd are not liable for any financial loss resulting from decisions made based on this information. Please consult your adviser, finance specialist, broker, and/or accountant before making decisions using this information.

Filed Under: Blogs, News

Tips to conquer house hunting fatigue

September 4, 2023

Buying a home takes time. Not so much the actual act of putting in an offer, having it accepted and waiting on settlement, which can take as long as the settlement period of 30 to 120 days. But the process that comes before all of that. The process of saving for, looking for, and buying your dream home.

Depending on what is happening in the market and where you are looking, it generally takes an average of nine months to locate a home to buy.

If you throw in the time it takes to come up with a deposit, your timeframe is a lot longer – often stretching out to many years. Even over a decade for some. That means it can be hard to keep the momentum going. Let’s look at some ways to manage what can at times feel like a never-ending journey.

Have some room in your budget for fun

If you’ve been saving for a deposit for a while, you might be feeling like you’ve been frugal forever! It takes a lot of discipline to come up with a decent deposit and there is always that little voice in your head thinking ‘if I only had a little more to spend’ that spurs you on to save even more.

While it’s important to stay on target with your savings it’s equally important when you are in for the long haul to have a little wriggle room to enjoy yourself and have some allowance for a planned splurge now and then.

Know what you are looking for

It can be overwhelming with the amount of stock on the market, and if you feel your life revolves around going to open for inspections you might need to narrow the field a little.

While it’s useful to attend auctions and opens to get a feel for the market and understand what is a realistic price rather than rely on price guides that can be underquoted, it’s frustrating spending time looking at unsuitable properties. They key is to narrow the field, so think about things like where you want to buy and the size, age and condition of the property.

Also consider what you are prepared to compromise on. A neighbouring suburb may offer better buying power than the suburb you have set your sights on, or you may wish to consider a slightly smaller or older property.

Equally there are some things that might be non-negotiable for you. You might want something built in the last decade and be prepared to look at smaller properties to get that or you want an inner-city pad to be close to work and are happy to consider older ‘renovator’s delights’ to get the location you are after.

Hold out for the right property

While it’s important to be flexible and distinguish between your ‘must haves’ and ‘nice to haves’, resist the temptation to buy a place that’s not quite right or exceed your budget to get the perfect property. It’s tempting to buy the next house you see so you can put all this stress and pressure behind you. However, you are likely to make multiple offers and be unsuccessful numerous times before you eventually succeed.

Remember that real estate agents are working for the vendor and if the terms are not to your liking or you are being pressured to make an offer that exceeds your budget or within an unreasonable timeframe, it’s OK to respond with a firm ‘no’. It can be a good idea to cultivate relationships with agents and let them know what you are after though, as they can do some of the legwork for you.

Take a break if you need to – it’s not a race and the odd weekend off might be just what you need.

Make sure you are ready when you find the right one

Finally, make sure you have your ducks in a row. Your most important duck – even before making a verbal offer – is knowing what you can borrow and having a pre-approval in place, and we can help with that. You’ll also need to think about conveyancing and building and pest inspections.

It can seem like a long journey, but you will get there! We are here to help you every step of the way.

Nicholas Berry Credit Representative Number 472439 is a Credit Representative of Integrity Finance (Aust) Pty Ltd – Australian Credit Licence 392184.
This information is of a general nature and does not take into consideration anyone’s individual circumstances or objectives. Financial Planning activities only are provided by Integrity One Planning Services Pty Ltd as a Corporate Authorised Representative No. 315000 of Integrity Financial Planners Pty Ltd ABN 71 069 537 855 AFSL 225051. Integrity One Planning Services Pty Ltd and Integrity One Accounting and Business Advisory Services Pty Ltd are not liable for any financial loss resulting from decisions made based on this information. Please consult your adviser, finance specialist, broker, and/or accountant before making decisions using this information.

Filed Under: Blogs, News

Market movements & economic review – September 2023

September 4, 2023

Stay up to date with what’s happened in Australian markets over the past month.

After endless gloomy forecasts, there was a glimmer of hope last month that the cost of living might be easing.

Inflation continued to fall, despite predictions by economists of a rise.

The ASX200 ended the month down with gains in financial stocks being offset by losses in mining and energy shares because of their dependency on China.

Click here for our September update video.

Please get in touch on 03 9723 0522 if you’d like assistance with your personal financial situation.


Suite 2, 1 Railway Crescent
Croydon, Victoria 3136

Email: integrityone@iplan.com.au

Telephone : 03 9723 0522

Integrity One Facebook

This information is of a general nature and does not take into consideration anyone’s individual circumstances or objectives. Financial Planning activities only are provided by Integrity One Planning Services Pty Ltd as a Corporate Authorised Representative No. 315000 of Integrity Financial Planners Pty Ltd ABN 71 069 537 855 AFSL 225051. Integrity One Planning Services Pty Ltd and Integrity One Accounting and Business Advisory Services Pty Ltd are not liable for any financial loss resulting from decisions made based on this information. Please consult your adviser, finance specialist, broker, and/or accountant before making decisions using this information.

Filed Under: Blogs, News

Quarterly property update – September 2023

September 4, 2023

Australia’s housing recovery gains momentum in August

Interest rates continue to be a hot topic of conversation among commentators, economists and mortgage holders. There is cautious optimism that rates are approaching stabilisation with rates remaining unchanged over the last two months of the quarter.

National growth back in the black

The CoreLogic National Home Value Index reached a milestone over the winter period, clawing back loses over the last 12 months to grow by 0.8% in August. The National HVI rose for the sixth consecutive month in August since bottoming out in February with growth broadly recorded across the country, the rate of growth increased again in August after the previous two-month trend slowing capital gains.

While the upper quartile of the market drove growth earlier in the year, the nation’s slowdown in the growth rate earlier in the quarter was largely being driven by easing gains in this segment of the market. There was, however, resilience in the middle and more affordable segments of the market, thanks to a bounce back from first home buyers and investors in recent months.

What impact are interest rates having?

Eleanor Creagh, Senior Economist at PropTrack shares that “stronger housing demand and a limited flow of new listings hitting the market have offset the impact of interest rate rises” over the quarter.

She believes with interest rates are nearing their peak, this will likely sustain current market confidence and maintain the lift in home values. However, she cautions, “the full impact of recent rate rises is yet to be felt, and the potential for further tightening remains a headwind for the market.”

Spring starts with a bang

The strong winter momentum looks set to flow into the spring selling season. Spring is set to start with a bang, with PropTrack data showing that the number of auctions scheduled for the first week of spring is up 13% compared to the same time in 2022.

PropTrack economist Anne Flaherty believes the unusually high number of auctions could be due to sellers holding off selling their properties over the first half of this year and late last year, a general improvement in selling sentiment and confidence increasing amid signs that interest rates may have peaked.

The influx of new properties hitting the market could be good news for buyers working to alleviate some of the competition.

Dwelling values over the quarter

The national Home Index Value grew by 2.5% over the quarter, with Brisbane leading the way. Within the capital cities, house values rather than unit values generally showed a sharper recovery trend.

Sydney
Sydney grew 3.8% over the quarter, with the Harbour City’s ongoing recovery now placing dwelling values at 1.2% higher over the last 12 months. Sydney’s monthly pace of growth has increased to 1.1% in August, with the rental yield holding relatively steady at 3.1%.

Melbourne
The Victorian capital continued its steady growth with 1.6% over the quarter, growth slowing slightly in August compared to July. The rental yield unchanged in August with 3.5% returns.

Brisbane
Brisbane led the growth for the nation’s capital cities in August with 1.5% growth and increasing by 4.2% over the quarter. In Brisbane, renters can take note of the 4.2% gross rental yield in August.

Canberra
Canberra recorded an increase of 0.5% over the quarter. After a decline in growth in July, dwelling values rebounded to grow by 0.3% in August. The nation’s capital has a current gross rental return of 4.0%.

Perth
Perth saw a 2.9% jump in values over the quarter, building on its annual growth of 4.5% and recording a new cyclical high through August. One of the few cities to do so. Investors will be happy with the country’s second highest gross rental return (behind Darwin) at 4.9%.

Note: all figures in the city snapshots are sourced from: CoreLogic’s national Home Value Index (September 2023)

If you have any questions or need any information please give us a call on 039723 0522.

Nicholas Berry Credit Representative Number 472439 is a Credit Representative of Integrity Finance (Aust) Pty Ltd – Australian Credit Licence 392184.
This information is of a general nature and does not take into consideration anyone’s individual circumstances or objectives. Financial Planning activities only are provided by Integrity One Planning Services Pty Ltd as a Corporate Authorised Representative No. 315000 of Integrity Financial Planners Pty Ltd ABN 71 069 537 855 AFSL 225051. Integrity One Planning Services Pty Ltd and Integrity One Accounting and Business Advisory Services Pty Ltd are not liable for any financial loss resulting from decisions made based on this information. Please consult your adviser, finance specialist, broker, and/or accountant before making decisions using this information.

Filed Under: Blogs, News

What you need to know about debt consolidation

September 4, 2023

Rising levels of debt and finding ways to manage it is a concern for many of our clients. For some, it’s aiming to improve their credit score when applying for a mortgage or government home ownership scheme. For others, it’s being able to cover rising mortgage repayments or unexpected expenses.

Fortunately, there are a number of ways to manage debt, including debt consolidation and accessing home equity. Here are some things you need to consider when making a debt management plan that’s right for you.

Work out your debt management plan

It can be confronting seeing your financial situation laid bare, but it’s impossible to create a workable debt management strategy if you aren’t clear on your total debts and expenses. That means making a list of your debts, their current interest rates as well as your income and valuables. And don’t forget, lenders will want to see at least 6 months’ worth of recent bank statements anyway.

Once you have a full picture of your finances, you can begin to look at your debt repayment options. Part of that plan may mean prioritising which debts to pay off first, switching to a cheaper or drawn down mortgage and combining your debts into one consolidation loan that reduces the interest and fees you’re paying. It may also mean cutting back on non-essential spending.

What are the benefits of consolidating your debts?

Debt consolidation involves combining several debts including any personal loans, credit cards and your home loan, into one loan. It can make your repayments simpler to keep track of, with a single reoccurring repayment, rather than multiple payments with different interest rates to stay on top of.

Consolidating multiple debts into one loan also provides a timeline of when you can be debt-free and can give you greater control of your budget, by reducing costs such as a lower total interest rate and fewer fees.

If you’re concerned about how your debts are impacting your credit score, consolidating into one loan may be beneficial. While it may initially lower your credit score, over time it will likely improve as it’ll be easier for you to manage your repayments.

However, debt consolidation is not appropriate in all circumstances, so it’s important to consider whether it’s for you.

Considerations when considering debt consolidation

While streamlining your debts can sound like a no brainer, there are some risks and considerations before undertaking the process, largely will you be financially better off?

Initially there may be upfront costs such as balance transfer fees, closing costs and new loan fees and long term you may end up paying more interest overall. When you consolidate your debts into one loan and extend the length your loan to reduce your monthly repayments, you will end up paying more interest and spend more over the lifespan of the loan.

Debt consolidation and your credit score

If you already own property, remortgaging to a lower interest rate is something to look into. After all, even on today’s interest rates, your mortgage is lower than your credit card or personal loan repayments.

You have probably seen your equity rise over recent years, so freeing up that money via a draw-down facility can look like a no-brainer. However, lenders don’t see things that simply. Lenders have to decide if you can manage the larger loan and like to see proof that you are managing your money well. They give just as much weight – maybe even more – to your credit score when deciding if you are a suitable candidate.

Your credit score takes into account the amount of debt you already have and if you are struggling with existing repayments. It’s a good idea to assess your credit score before applying for a new loan to consolidate your debts and risk getting your loan rejected, as that lowers your rating.

We’re always happy to help you assess whether you are a strong candidate for a new home loan to assist you in taking control of your future. Simply give us a call to get started.


Suite 2, 1 Railway Crescent
Croydon, Victoria 3136

Email: integrityone@iplan.com.au

Telephone : 03 9723 0522

Integrity One Facebook

This information is of a general nature and does not take into consideration anyone’s individual circumstances or objectives. Financial Planning activities only are provided by Integrity One Planning Services Pty Ltd as a Corporate Authorised Representative No. 315000 of Integrity Financial Planners Pty Ltd ABN 71 069 537 855 AFSL 225051. Integrity One Planning Services Pty Ltd and Integrity One Accounting and Business Advisory Services Pty Ltd are not liable for any financial loss resulting from decisions made based on this information. Please consult your adviser, finance specialist, broker, and/or accountant before making decisions using this information.

Filed Under: Blogs, News

How the Aussie dollar moves your investments

September 4, 2023

It has been a wild ride for the Australian dollar since the Covid-19 pandemic struck and that could mean good news or bad news for your investment portfolio.

In March 2020 the Aussie dipped below US58 cents for the first time in a decade. Since then, a high of just over US77 cents in 2021 has been followed by a rollercoaster ride, mostly downhill.

In October 2022 the dollar plummeted to US61.9 cents, bounced its way back up to US71.3 cents in February this year but by mid-August it had slipped to a nine-month low at under US64 cents.

Many analysts agree that further falls are on the cards with some even predicting the dollar could fall to as low as US40 cents within five years.

What’s driving the dollar?

Given any currency’s susceptibility to changing economic conditions both at home and overseas, the Aussie has had quite a bit to deal with lately.

Rising interest rates can boost the Australian dollar by making us more attractive for foreign investors, providing our rates are rising ahead of the US and others.

If foreign investors buy more Australian assets because they can get a bigger return on their investment, more money flows into Australia which increases demand for Australian dollars. And if investors hold more Australian assets than overseas ones, less money leaves the country, decreasing supply. So, increased demand and decreased supply see the Australian dollar rise.

While the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has increased rates by 4% in Australia since May last year as it battles to get inflation under control, rates have also been rising in the US.

The US Federal Reserve has undertaken its most aggressive rate-rising cycle in 40 years with rates now at a 22-year high and signs of further increases likely. This has put pressure on the Australian dollar, narrowing the difference between the US and Australian rates, meaning foreign investors will look for better returns elsewhere.

Changing economic conditions

The value of the Australian dollar is also affected by changes in economic conditions as well as rises and falls in other financial markets. For example, in August news that the unemployment rate had increased slightly and an easing in wage price growth led to speculation that the RBA would put a hold on rates, putting a dampener on the Aussie.

Also affecting the dollar was a decline in US share markets in August, confirming the typical pattern of the Australian dollar falling when prices in equity markets drop.

Meanwhile, the performance of China’s economy plays a significant part in Australian dollar movements. China is currently battling soaring unemployment, particularly among young people, falling land prices and a housing crisis, among other ills.

As Australia’s largest trading partner, both in terms of imports and exports, any slowdown in China means lower sales of our commodities and other goods and services and less investment in property and business.

How the dollar affects us

There are advantages and disadvantages of a falling Australian dollar. On the plus side, our exports will be more competitive because our customers will pay less for our goods and services compared with those produced overseas. Conversely, imported goods will be relatively more expensive.

There could also be an increase in tourism – the cost of travel in Australia will be cheaper for those coming from overseas. Unfortunately, those planning an overseas trip will need to find a significantly greater pile of Australian dollars to pay for airfares, accommodation and shopping.

For investors, it is a useful exercise to review the currency’s effect on your portfolio.

For example, if you’re invested in Australian companies that rely on overseas earnings, look at how they handle their exposure to the currency risk. A lower dollar is good news for those with overseas operations and those that export goods. On the other hand, those that need to buy in components or products from overseas may suffer.

In any case, have a chat to us to look at the best way forward in these uncertain times.


Suite 2, 1 Railway Crescent
Croydon, Victoria 3136

Email: integrityone@iplan.com.au

Telephone : 03 9723 0522

Integrity One Facebook

This information is of a general nature and does not take into consideration anyone’s individual circumstances or objectives. Financial Planning activities only are provided by Integrity One Planning Services Pty Ltd as a Corporate Authorised Representative No. 315000 of Integrity Financial Planners Pty Ltd ABN 71 069 537 855 AFSL 225051. Integrity One Planning Services Pty Ltd and Integrity One Accounting and Business Advisory Services Pty Ltd are not liable for any financial loss resulting from decisions made based on this information. Please consult your adviser, finance specialist, broker, and/or accountant before making decisions using this information.

Filed Under: Blogs, News

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