Thinking of buying a home? That’s a big step and an exciting one too. But before you start scrolling through real estate listings, it’s important to consider how any debt you are holding will impact your application.

When you apply for a home loan, lenders look at more than just your income. They assess the whole picture to determine how much they’re willing to lend you. One of the key pieces of that puzzle is your existing debt. Depending on what you owe and to whom, it could either reduce the amount you can borrow or impact your chances of being successful in your application.

How lenders decide what you can borrow

Lenders calculate what’s known as your borrowing power. This is the amount they believe you can comfortably afford to repay on a home loan. To figure that out, they consider your income, your expenses, existing debt, credit history, savings patterns, and the size of your deposit. They’ll also take into account the property you’re wanting to buy, the term of the loan, and type of loan.

It all comes down to risk. A lender wants to be confident you can meet your repayments without stretching yourself too thin. And that’s where the type of debt you hold becomes very important.

Some debt is better than others

Not all debt is equal. Some types of debt are seen as manageable or even responsible, while others are not viewed favourably.

Let’s start with personal loans, particularly those used for holidays, weddings or other one-off costs. These are unsecured and tend to have higher interest rates, which makes them less attractive from a lender’s perspective. On the other hand, a car loan that’s secured against the vehicle might be seen in a slightly better light, though it still reduces your capacity to take on a mortgage.

Student debt, like HECS or HELP, is generally treated more leniently because of its income-based repayment structure. But lenders still factor it in when assessing how much disposable income you have.

Credit cards can be especially tricky. It’s not just the balance you owe that matters – it’s the limit. Even if you clear your balance each month, a high limit can work against you because it represents potential debt.

Buy now, pay later services have become increasingly popular, but they also tend to be red flags for lenders. If you’re regularly using these services, it could suggest you’re relying on short-term credit to get through the month.

Then there’s co-borrowed debt, where you’ve taken on a loan with someone else. Even if you’re not the one making the repayments, a lender will still treat that debt as your responsibility. And if you already have an existing mortgage, that naturally has a big impact on what you can afford to borrow next.

Steps to reduce the impact of debt

If you’re keen to strengthen your loan application, there’s plenty you can do. Start by checking your credit report to make sure everything listed is accurate and sort out any errors or unexpected surprises.

Focus on paying off high-interest debt first, especially credit cards. If you can, reduce your card limits or close accounts you’re not using. That alone can make a noticeable difference to your borrowing power.

Try to avoid taking on any new debt in the months leading up to your application. A new personal loan or store finance might seem manageable now, but it could make your finances look more stretched than they actually are.

The goal is to show lenders that you’re in control of your money. That means a steady savings history, low debt levels, and a clear plan for managing repayments once you take on a mortgage.

Remember, debt isn’t everything

While your debt levels play a major role in the loan assessment process, don’t be discouraged if you’re not completely debt-free.

What matters most is how you manage the debt you do have and the steps you’re taking to get your finances into shape. If home ownership is your goal, now’s the perfect time to start managing your debt and building up your financial confidence.

Your future self (with the house keys in hand) will thank you for it.

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

Integrity One Wealth Advisers  Pty Ltd

Spring is set for a bumper selling season

Housing values continued to gain momentum nationally for the seventh consecutive month with an increase of 0.7% according to figures from Cotality (previously Corelogic). This is the strongest gain since May 2024.

Eliza Owen, head of research at Cotality stated that the drivers of the increase in home values is straightforward.

“You’ve got more demand in the housing market, with real wages growth up to its highest level in five years, lower interest rates and more consumer confidence aiding housing purchases,” Ms Owen said.

It appears to be a sellers’ market this spring as home prices are set to continue to rise and fewer properties are being listed for sale. Cotality Australia’s research director, Tim Lawless said “Vendors are in a strong position as we head into spring.”

Growth is set to continue

The interest rate cuts in February, May and August have spurred on buyer demand as borrowers have increased borrowing capacity. “Once again we are seeing a clear mismatch between available supply and demonstrated demand placing upwards pressure on housing values”, said Tim Lawless.

“The annual trend in estimated home sales is up two percent on last year and tracking almost 4% above the previous five-year average. At the same time, advertised supply levels remain about -20% below average for this time of the year.”

The national median house price is now $848,858, up 4.1% over the year. Brisbane achieved the highest monthly growth rate, up 1.2%, while Hobart was the only capital which lost ground, down by 0.2%.

Fewer properties hitting the market

While auction clearance rates rose to 70% in August, the highest since February 2024, there are low levels of properties being list for sale.

Tim Lawless said “We are starting to see the usual start of spring upswing in new listings coming to market, but from a low base. A pick up in the flow of stock coming to market through spring will be good news for buyers who generally have limited choice at the moment.”

Other factors set to boost the market

Market confidence is set to remain as consumer sentiment reached a 3-and-a-half year high in August, core inflation is around the mid-point of the RBA’s target, as well as further interest rates cuts, along with the expansion of the First Home Buyer Guarantee due on 1 October.

“Saving for a deposit is one of the biggest hurdles for accessing home ownership. Saving a 5% rather than a 20% deposit could shave around 10 years off the time it takes to accrue a deposit in an expensive market like Sydney,” Mr Lawless said.

Households are continuing to accrue savings with accumulated savings nearing pre-pandemic levels in March.

Wages growth is another factor that is looking to bolster the market with real wages growth at 1.3% per annum, the highest levels since June 2020.

On the downside

Affordability continues to constrain the market and will keep growth levels steady, along with the pressure on the growth in population which is an ongoing issue with housing supply.

Dwelling values over the quarter

Melbourne

The Victorian capital posted a 1.0% quarterly move according to Cotality figures, taking the city’s median dwelling price to $803,104. Investors should take note that the gross rental yield figure for Melbourne is 3.7%.

Sydney

In the three months to August, Sydney experienced a dwelling value change of 1.7% resulting in a median of $1.224 million. The gross rental yield for the Harbour City remains the lowest of the capitals at 3.0%.

Brisbane

The Queensland capital continues to record the second most expensive spot for dwelling values at $949,583 and a quarterly rise of 3.0%. Brisbane has recorded a gross rental yield of 3.6%.

Canberra

The national capital recorded a rise of 1.5% during the quarter with the median now sitting at $872,957. For Canberra, the gross rental yield is 4.1%

Perth

Perth prices increased 3.1% over the quarter, taking its medium to $841,928. Perth recorded 4.2% gross rental yield.

For more information about how you might be able to purchase a property in the current market, get in touch with us today.

Note: all figures in the city snapshots are sourced from: Cotality national Home Value Index (September 2025) 

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

Integrity One Wealth Advisers  Pty Ltd

Buying a home is one of life’s biggest milestones—and can be one of the most stressful. From working out what you can afford, to numerous property inspections, understanding auction conditions, reading legal contracts and navigating finance approvals, it’s no wonder so many buyers feel overwhelmed. We see it every day—clients come to us excited but also anxious, especially when it’s their first home or first major investment.

There’s a lot to juggle when you’re purchasing property. As mortgage brokers, we help you navigate the finance side of things—ensuring your loan is the right fit, competitive, and ready to go when the time comes to make an offer on a property. But, on the property hunting and purchasing side, many buyers don’t realise they can also call in a professional to guide them on that part of the journey too.

What exactly is a buyer’s advocate?

A buyer’s advocate (also known as a buyer’s agent) is a licensed property professional who works solely for the buyer. Unlike real estate agents, who are paid by the seller to get the highest possible price, buyer’s advocates are hired by you, the purchaser, to act in your best interest.

Their role is all about strategy and support. They can help you define what you’re really looking for (beyond the 3 bed, 2 bath). They can research suburbs that align with your budget and goals, inspect properties, assess true market value, and negotiate the purchase—whether that’s through a private sale or bidding at auction on your behalf. Many also have access to off-market properties that never get listed online, which can be beneficial if you’ve been looking for a long time.

Some buyer’s advocates offer full-service packages—handling the entire search and negotiation—while others offer auction bidding or negotiation-only services if you’ve already found a property yourself. Whatever the level of involvement, their aim is the same; to protect your interests and help you buy smarter, with less stress and more confidence.

Buyer’s advocate fees typically range from 1% to 3% of the purchase price, but this can vary based on service level and location. Some agents offer fixed fees, while others use a commission model where the fee is a percentage of the purchase price.

Still niche but growing

While using a buyer’s advocate is still considered a niche option, it’s one that’s growing steadily across Australia. Industry data shows the number of registered buyer’s advocates in Australia has increased from around 500 in 2016 to over 1,000 today.

Even more telling is the shift in buyer sentiment. A recent survey found that approximately one in three property seekers are considering using a buyer’s advocate for their next purchase. That includes not only first-home buyers, but also investors and even those looking to upgrade to a bigger home, who want expert support as they navigate a competitive and fast-moving market.

The rise in demand makes sense when you consider how complex the property landscape has become. With fluctuating prices, regional hotspots, and a surge in off-market activity, buyers are realising they need more than just enthusiasm—they need expertise.

Less stress. More confidence.

For first-home buyers especially, the emotional impact of missing out on properties, feeling out of your depth at auctions, or second-guessing your choices can take a serious toll. We’ve seen buyers get stuck in “analysis paralysis” for months, afraid to make a move. We’ve also seen others rush into purchases they later regret—often because they didn’t have the right guidance.

A buyer’s advocate helps cut through the noise. They can tell you if a property is worth the asking price. They know the local agents and how to negotiate with them. They understand market trends, suburb growth potential, and zoning rules. They can calmly manage auction day nerves or advise you when it’s smarter to walk away.

In short, they help you buy with your head—not just your heart.

You don’t have to do it alone

If you’re thinking about purchasing a home or investment property, you don’t have to do it all alone. Start by having a chat with us. We’ll walk you through your finance options, help you understand your budget, and prepare your loan strategy so you’re ready to act when the right opportunity comes along.

And if you’d like extra support on the property side, it’s worth considering the benefits of having an expert to help you buy. 

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

Integrity One Wealth Advisers  Pty Ltd

A broad-based rise in housing values over the quarter

Housing values gained momentum across almost all markets over the three months to end of May, largely due to rate cuts. Buyer confidence is increasing thanks to the cash rate reductions in February and May, coupled with optimism that more rate cuts might be on the horizon.

Australian dwelling values increased by 1.3% over the quarter, with broad based gains meaning that every capital city recorded a rise of at least 0.5%.

Despite the momentum demonstrated by the quarterly figures, the pace of annual gains nationally slowed to 3.3%. This represents the slowest annual change since the year ending August 2023.

A rebound where values were the weakest

The rise in property values over the quarter continues to be led by the lower ends of the market, with Darwin recording the highest quarterly increase of the capitals with a 4.3% rise.

However, it should be noted that some more expensive market segments are starting to accelerate in response to rate cuts.

Regional markets are also demonstrating a positive trend, recording a rise in values of 1.6% over the past three months.

Tarif announcements and a lead up to the election knocked confidence

Household confidence slipped in April, with the US’s ‘Liberation Day’ tariff announcements and the lead up to the Australian federal election also causing uncertainty.

Positive factors supporting growth

The main factor boosting buyer confidence and the volume of property sales is the widespread expectation that interest rates are set to reduce further as the RBA appears to be becoming more comfortable with the path of inflation. Confidence that inflation will remain within the target range is crucial for interest rates to continue to reduce.

Some renewed confidence in household decision making after the federal election is also likely to support further price growth, with enhanced policies to support first home buyers announced.

The housing undersupply is also playing a role in supporting demand. Recent figures show commencements moving in the wrong direction, over the December 2024 quarter, holding below the decade average. Additionally, the barriers for building more homes remain substantial, with construction costs rising through the March quarter.

Downside factors

There are also factors at play that will keep housing values in check to some extent. Affordability pressures are anticipated to constrain housing demand and lower population growth should also help to quell the accrual of housing demand in the absence of an increase in supply.

It is anticipated that the factors supporting growth will outweigh these and housing values will continue to post modest rises.

Dwelling values over the quarter

Melbourne

The Victorian capital posted a 1.2% quarterly move according to Cotality (previously Corelogic) figures, taking the city’s median dwelling price to $791,303. Investors should take note that the gross rental yield figure for Melbourne is 3.7%.

Sydney

In the three months to May’s end, Sydney experienced a dwelling value change of 1.1% resulting in a median of $1.203 million. The gross rental yield for the Harbour City remains the lowest of the capitals at 3.1%.

Brisbane

The Queensland capital has again recorded the second most expensive spot for dwelling values at $917,992 and a quarterly rise of 1.6%. Brisbane has recorded a gross rental yield of 3.7%.

Canberra

The national capital recorded a rise of 0.5% during the quarter with the median now sitting at $855,663. For Canberra, the gross rental yield is 4.1%.

Perth

Perth prices increased 1.6% over the quarter, taking its medium to $813,810. Perth recorded 4.3% gross rental yield.

For more information about how you might be able to purchase a property in the current market, get in touch with us today.

Note: all figures in the city snapshots are sourced from: Cotality national Home Value Index (May 2025)

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

Suite 2, 1 Railway Crescent
Croydon, Victoria 3136

Email: integrityone@iplan.com.au

Telephone : 03 9723 0522

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Ah, the adventure of house hunting! While scrolling through property listings, you might find yourself mesmerised by stunning photos and enticed by the descriptions. But hold on! Just as a place can look better with a well-angled shot, it can also sound more appealing thanks to a little wordplay. So, let’s decode some classic real estate phrases to see what they REALLY mean.

‘Renovator’s delight’ or ‘just needs a little TLC’

First up, we have the ever-popular ‘renovator’s delight’. Sounds promising, right? But this phrase usually means the property is barely liveable, perhaps requiring a hard hat and a strong stomach just to step inside. Envisage peeling paint, floors that could double as a trampoline, and a kitchen that looks like it was designed for a sitcom from the ’70s. It’s the real estate equivalent of saying, ‘It just needs a little love!’—which really translates to, ‘good luck with that!’.

Next on our list is any phrase with the words ‘tender loving care (TLC)’. A similar one to the ‘renovator’s delight’, this phrase sounds sweet and harmless, but it usually means the property is in desperate need of more than just a little pampering – so approach with caution.

‘Cosy’ or ‘modest proportions’

When you come across the term ‘cosy’ or ‘modest proportions’ you might be envisioning a warm, inviting space. However, it often translates to ‘so small you can barely swing a cat’—and trust me, you’ll want to consider the cat’s feelings here! Cosy spaces might give you that snug feeling, but they can also lead to some serious negotiations over personal space, especially if you’re living with someone else. If the listing mentions the above terms you might want to bring a tape measure along for your inspection.

‘Character-filled’ or ‘one-of-a-kind’ or ‘unique’

Now, let’s talk about these terms which are often used to describe a property that has a bit of personality. But beware! ‘Character’ can often mean ‘dated’, as in shagpile carpet and floral wallpaper that could trigger some serious nostalgia (or nightmares). If you’re looking for a home that screams ‘vintage chic’, this could be your jam. But if you’re hoping for something modern, you might want to steer clear unless you have a renovation budget the size of a small country.

Another one to look out for is ‘one of a kind’ or ‘unique’. These terms can often mean the owner is a creative soul who has channelled their efforts into the decor. Think magenta, chartreuse, polka dots and leopard print – all in the same room. Often nothing that can’t be fixed with a lot of white paint but just make sure their efforts did not move beyond easily fixed decor disasters to being a little too creative with the floorplan or structure of the place.

‘Centrally located’

Ah, the phrase ‘centrally located’. This one sounds promising, suggesting proximity to all the best spots. However, this often means the property is uncomfortably close to a shopping centre, freeway, a tram or train line, or some other source of noise pollution. Sure, you might be minutes away from the action, but if you value your peace and quiet, you might want to check exactly how centrally located it is before attending that inspection.

‘Up-and-coming neighbourhood’

This phrase conjures visions of hip cafes and artisan shops. However, it’s often a polite way of saying, ‘this area is a bit average’. You might find yourself living in a place that has potential, but it could also mean enduring factories, funky smells, or a local dive bar that hosts karaoke every Thursday night. If you’re the adventurous type, this could be right up your alley; if not, you might want to think about the pros and cons.

‘The backyard is your canvas’

Watch out for this one as it’s code for ‘there’s nothing but dirt or concrete back there’. Be ready for some backbreaking work and a few trips to the local nursery to turn a barren block into a verdant garden.

Navigating real estate agent descriptions can feel like trying to decode a secret language, and sometimes the language is more amusing than informative. Keep your sense of humour i

Suite 2, 1 Railway Crescent
Croydon, Victoria 3136

Email: integrityone@iplan.com.au

Telephone : 03 9723 0522

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Home values rebound at the end of the quarter after cash rate cut

Housing markets look to have moved past the recent short and shallow downturn. While the quarterly figures remained flat, housing values for the month of February saw a rebound as the RBA decreased the cash rate for the first time since November 2020.

CoreLogic’s national Home Value Index posted a broad-based rise of 0.3% in February that saw every capital increase, with the exception of Darwin, which posted a weak decrease of –0.1%.

A rebound where values were the weakest

The largest month-on-month change across the capitals was recorded in Melbourne and Hobart (both up +0.4%) where home values have previously been among the weakest. For Melbourne, the lift breaks a streak of ten consecutive months of falling home values.

Sydney recorded the second strongest increase of 0.3%. Conversely, the mid-sized capitals of Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide are no longer the strongest growth markets.

The expensive end of the market bouncing back

The return to growth across Sydney and Melbourne is being supported by the more expensive end of the market, rebounding quickly after high-value markets recorded the sharpest declines.

The regions recording growth

Regional housing conditions continued to show a stronger growth trend relative to the capital city counterparts, with values across the combined regionals index rising 0.4% over February and 1.0% over the quarter – compared to the capital city values which recorded a 0.3% monthly rise and a -0.4% quarterly fall.

Borrower sentiment leading the uptick

In the March CoreLogic report Tim Lawless said the improved housing conditions have more to do with improved sentiment than any immediate improvement in borrowing capacity.

“Expectations of lower interest rates, which solidified in February, look to be flowing through to improved buyer sentiment.”

Declining supply of listings and new homes being built

Improved market conditions may also be reflecting a slowdown in the amount of ‘for sale’ listings. New listings across the combined capitals were -4.7% lower than a year ago.

Low levels of new housing construction are also anticipated to support housing values, with multi-unit dwelling construction in particular, well below the average.

Expectations of a drawn-out cash rate

The most recent CoreLogic report noted that the rate-cutting cycle is very fresh and is likely to be drawn out. Lower mortgage rates are positive for housing markets, supporting a rise in borrowing capacity and serviceability assessments, but despite the recent rise, the cash rate is anticipated to remain relatively low for the near future which is anticipated to limit growth.

Dwelling values over the quarter

Melbourne

The Victorian capital posted a -1.1%t quarterly move according to CoreLogic figures, taking the city’s median dwelling price to $772,561. Investors should take note that the gross rental yield figure for Melbourne now sits at 3.7%.

Sydney

In the three months to February’s end, Sydney experienced a dwelling value change of -0.9% resulting in a median of $1.186 million. The gross rental yield for the Harbour City is currently the lowest of the capitals at 3.1%.

Brisbane

The Queensland capital has again recorded the second most expensive spot for dwelling values at $894,425, and a quarterly rise of 0.9%. Brisbane has recorded a gross rental yield of 3.7%.

Canberra

The national capital recorded a decline of -0.8% during the quarter with the median now sitting at $846,955. For Canberra, the gross rental yield is 4.1%.

Perth

Continuing its lead as the best-performing capital over the quarter, Perth jumped 3% for the second quarter in a row, taking its medium to $807,933. Perth recorded 4.3% gross rental yield.

For more information about how you might be able to purchase a property in the current market, get in touch with us today. 

Note: all figures in the city snapshots are sourced from: CoreLogic’s national Home Value Index (March 2025)

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

Suite 2, 1 Railway Crescent
Croydon, Victoria 3136

Email: integrityone@iplan.com.au

Telephone : 03 9723 0522

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