Jacqueline Barton

The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has cut the cash rate, and it seems likely there will be more cuts to come in 2025. All Big Four banks are anticipating at least two cuts this year and some say there may be up to five cash rate reductions.

So, should borrowers opt for a variable home loan rate or a fixed one? Or a bit of both with a split rate? The answer depends on what’s important to you.

Here, we explain your options.

Variable home loans

The benefit of a variable home loan is that the interest rate you pay will move up and down in line with market interest rates.

If the RBA cuts the cash rate again in 2025, your lender may pass on the reduction in your interest rate (though this is not 100% guaranteed), which will result in lower repayments. If the RBA puts the cash rate up, your interest rate could go up too.

Variable home loans tend to come with more flexibility and features than fixed rate loans. Examples include interest-saving features like redraw facilities and offset accounts.

You may also be able to make extra repayments without copping a fee, thereby paying off your home loan sooner.

Fixed home loans

With a fixed rate home loan, your interest rate will stay the same for the duration of the fixed period (usually from one to five years), irrespective of market interest rates.

The key benefit is that you’ll know exactly what your repayments will be and can budget accordingly.

If the RBA increases the cash rate, you won’t be affected, but you also won’t benefit if the cash rate goes down again.

In the past, fixed rate home loans were typically a lot less flexible than variable home loans. However, nowadays some lenders do allow you to make extra repayments (usually up to a limit) on fixed home loans. Certain lenders also offer redraw facilities or offset accounts on fixed-rate loans.

However, if you want to sell the property or refinance, you may be up for a break fee. While break fees are typically not charged on variable rate loans, you might face a discharge or settlement fee to cover admin costs, which usually range from $150 to $400. On fixed-rate loans, break fees can still be quite hefty, so it’s important to think through your long-term plans before committing.

If lenders expect the cash rate to fall, the fixed rate tends to be lower than the variable rate. Some lenders have already reduced their fixed-rate home loans in anticipation of future cash rate cuts by the RBA, so it’s worth exploring your options.

Split rate home loan

With a split rate home loan, you can lock in a portion of your mortgage under a fixed rate and leave the rest variable.

This gives you the best of both worlds. The fixed-rate portion provides certainty, so you’ll always know what your repayments will be for that part of the loan. Meanwhile, the variable portion of the loan offers flexibility and the potential to benefit from any interest rate cuts.

Like to explore your options further?

Deciding what type of loan is right for you can be challenging, but we’re here to help. We can crunch the numbers and help you to weigh up your options.

Please contact us for assistance.

It was the news homeowners across the nation had been waiting to hear. The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has cut the cash rate.

The majority of new home loans in Australia in 2024 are variable – estimated at 98 per cent – while only 2 per cent are fixed, so there are bound to be a lot of happy homeowners celebrating the RBA’s announcement. If you’re on a variable rate, get in touch and we’ll check whether your lender has passed on the interest rate cut, and/or whether it might be worth refinancing to a more competitive home loan.

If you’re looking to buy a property, there’s good news for you too – the RBA’s announcement may improve your borrowing capacity. Talk to us and we’ll help you explore your finance options.

Property prices remained relatively flat across the nation’s capitals in January, but the RBA’s announcement may change that. Meanwhile, regional areas are seeing values reach record highs.

Interest rate news

The RBA kicked off its first meeting for 2025 with a 0.25 percentage point reduction in the cash rate to 4.10 per cent. The announcement comes after better-than-expected inflation data showed that inflation is heading towards the RBA’s targets.

All of the Big Four banks had anticipated the RBA’s decision, and now borrowers will be closely watching lenders to see whether they pass on the cash rate cut.

If passed on in full, it’s estimated borrowers with a $600,000 home loan will save $92 a month, while those with a $750,000 loan will pocket $115 a month.

For a borrower with a $1 million home loan, the cash rate cut is expected to save them around $153 per month.

To talk through your home loan and the benefits of refinancing, get in touch today. We can also explain your borrowing capacity in the current market, so please reach out.

Home value movements

Property values across the nation’s capitals held relatively steady in January.

Three of the eight capital cities recorded a decline in values in January. Melbourne saw the sharpest dip, with property prices dropping -0.6%, followed by the ACT (-0.5%) and Sydney (-0.3%).

Brisbane and Perth continued to perform stronger than other markets, but these cities are also losing steam in terms of price growth.

“Perth is now recording a slower rate of growth than Brisbane and Adelaide over the rolling quarter,” CoreLogic research director Tim Lawless said.

“In the June quarter of 2024, growth in Perth home values was 7.1%, easing back to just 1.0% growth in the three months to January.”

The rate of growth is also slowing in Adelaide, but the city has led the capitals over the past six months with a 4.8% increase.

Meanwhile, dwelling values across the combined regional areas of Australia rose a further 0.4% in January, reaching new record highs.

“Regional markets seem to be benefitting from a second wind of internal migration, along with an affordability advantage in some markets, and what looks to be some permanency in hybrid working arrangements across some occupations and industries,” Mr Lawless said.

Auction and home value data

* Monthly Home Values figures as of 31 January 2024

* Australian auction results, clearance rates and recent sales for the week ending 16 February 2025

* The clearance rate is preliminary and current as of 11:30pm AEDT, 15 January 2025

With interest rates coming down, now is the time to start putting any purchasing plans for 2025 into action. Whether you’re buying your first home, next home or an investment property, we’ll organise preapproval on your finance so that you’re ready to go.

If you’re considering refinancing after the cash rate cut, talk to us and we’ll run through your finance options.

Additional sources

CoreLogic RP Data Daily Home Value Index: Monthly Values

https://www.corelogic.com.au/our-data/auction-results

https://www.realestate.com.au/auction-results/

As the new year begins and the daily grind resumes, many Australians are dreaming of swapping city life for the charm of the coast. What was once primarily about lifestyle is now a practical choice for many.

But before packing your bags for the coast, here are key factors to consider:

1. Is coastal living truly affordable?

The days of ultra-low mortgage rates are behind us, and tighter credit conditions have buyers exploring more affordable options. Coastal property markets have become more appealing as buyers look beyond cities for value. However, rising demand in some areas has reshaped the affordability landscape.

“There was a frenzy of demand during COVID when interest rates were at rock bottom, and a lot of them overshot their prices,” says Eliza Owen, Head of Australian Research at CoreLogic. Recent data shows that in some coastal towns, house prices have dropped 20 per cent, making them more accessible again. But not all regions follow this trend, so it is important to do your research.

If you’re considering a move to the coast, think beyond property prices. Evaluate the overall cost of living, including groceries, petrol, and utilities, as well as access to essential services like healthcare, childcare, quality schools, or reliable public transport. Exploring potential neighbourhoods thoroughly will help ensure the area aligns with your financial and lifestyle needs.

2. Is it the right move for your career?

Remote working has opened the door for many to embrace a sea change, but recent workplace trends suggest caution. Some companies are gradually introducing return-to-office requirements, with a few expecting employees to be in person multiple days a week. Planning for these possibilities can help ensure your coastal move remains a positive and practical decision.

Before making the leap, think about:

• Your employer’s current flexibility and the possibility for future changes to remote work arrangements.
• How practical it would be to attend in-office meetings from your coastal home.
• Whether your new home has a reliable internet connection and a comfortable workspace.

With thoughtful planning, you can enjoy the benefits of coastal living while staying adaptable to potential changes in your work environment.

3. Are climate and environmental factors on your radar?

Coastal living offers stunning views and fresh sea breezes, but it’s important to think about the environmental risks that come with it. Coastal areas may face challenges like rising sea levels, erosion, or storm surges, which could impact both your property’s safety and its long-term value. Regional areas, on the other hand, could face bushfire risks during the hotter months.

Before committing, research the climate resilience of the property and the local area, and check whether additional insurance or protective measures might be needed.

4. What’s your long-term plan?

A sea change isn’t just a lifestyle choice; it’s a financial commitment. Baby boomers, for instance, may see this as an opportunity to use their superannuation to downsize or invest in a lifestyle upgrade. Younger buyers might view coastal properties as a smart long-term investment or a stepping stone toward future financial goals.

Whatever your motivation, it’s important to consider whether this move supports your long-term plans or could create challenges later.

Ready to start your sea change journey?

A sea change can be life-changing, but it’s a decision that deserves careful thought. As your mortgage broker, I’m here to guide you through the financial aspects of your journey, from understanding your borrowing capacity to securing a loan that meets your needs.

Please contact us for assistance and let’s start planning your next chapter by the sea.

Thinking about buying a home in 2025? The property market is evolving, bringing both opportunities and challenges for buyers. Whether you’re saving for your first home, upgrading, or investing, staying informed about the latest trends can help you make confident and informed decisions.

Here are five key trends to keep an eye on in 2025:

1. Interest rates: A cut may be coming

After holding steady throughout 2024, interest rates are poised for potential cuts, with some economists predicting reductions as early as February or May, depending on inflation and economic conditions.

Lower borrowing costs could make home loans more affordable, encouraging increased activity in the property market. However, rising demand could eventually push prices higher later in the year. Keeping an eye on Reserve Bank of Australia decisions will be crucial for buyers looking to secure favourable loan terms before the market responds to this increased activity.

2. Rising rents driving buyers into the market

Australia’s rental market remains tight, with national vacancy rates at a low 1.8%, according to CoreLogic’s November report. As rents continue to climb, many tenants are reconsidering their long-term strategies, finding that buying a home could offer greater stability and, in some cases, lower monthly costs compared to renting.

This trend underscores the importance of acting decisively if buying is part of your 2025 plans, as more renters transitioning to homeownership may increase competition in the housing market.

3. Reduced migration and its impact on housing demand

The government has lowered the 2025 permanent Migration Program cap to 185,000 for 2024–25, down from 190,000 the previous year. This change is expected to ease housing demand.

Tim Lawless, CoreLogic’s Head of Research, noted, “A further reduction in overseas migration will see less aggregate housing demand, especially across the rental sector where rental growth is already flattening out.” Over time, reduced migration could also lower demand for home purchases, potentially creating a less competitive market in some areas.

For buyers, this could mean greater opportunities in regions previously dominated by high rental demand or competitive first-home buyer markets.

4. More homes for sale: Expanding choices for buyers

In 2025, buyers may find the property market offering more options, as the supply of homes gradually increases. The federal government’s Housing Accord, targeting the delivery of 1.2 million new homes, is part of a broader effort to tackle housing shortages. While high construction costs and labour shortages remain challenges, a modest recovery in building approvals suggests progress is underway.

CoreLogic notes, “dwelling approvals look to have moved through a low point, and we could see more announcements from federal and state governments aimed at supporting residential construction activity.”

With a federal election anticipated sometime in the next four months, housing affordability is likely to be a key issue. Existing initiatives, such as the Home Guarantee Scheme and Help to Buy, could be supplemented with new policies, further improving opportunities for homebuyers.

5. Shifts in housing affordability opening doors for savvy buyers

In 2024, many Australians found housing affordability stretched due to high property prices and tighter lending conditions. However, 2025 may bring a turning point.

Projected income growth is expected to outpace housing values growth and potential interest rate reductions could make saving for a deposit and securing a loan more achievable. These improving conditions provide buyers with an encouraging environment to plan their next move, whether entering the market for the first time or upgrading to a new home.

By keeping a close eye on these trends and understanding how they affect your local market, you can position yourself to take advantage of these changes in 2025.

Let’s plan your property journey in 2025

Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll make, but you don’t have to do it alone. As your mortgage broker, I can help you understand your borrowing power, guide you through pre-approval, and ensure you’re ready to act when the right opportunity comes along.

Let’s start planning your next move – please get in touch today to get started!

2025 is shaping up to be a year of opportunities in the property market. With predictions of interest rate cuts coming this year, it’s an exciting time whether you’re considering buying a new home, refinancing, or exploring investment options. As your mortgage broker, we’re here to help you make confident decisions in this evolving landscape.

Here’s how we can support you this year.

1. Guiding you through a changing market

The property market can feel complex, with interest rates, lender policies, and government incentives constantly changing. Our role is to help you understand how these changes could impact your goals. Whether you’re refinancing your current loan or purchasing a new property, we’ll guide you through the options available and help you make informed choices.

2. Giving you access to more options

Unlike banks, which only offer their own products, we have access to a wide range of lenders, including major banks, credit unions, and non-bank lenders. This allows us to compare multiple loan options to find one that matches your financial situation and goals.

3. Looking out for your best interests

As your mortgage broker, we’re bound by the Best Interest Duty, a legal requirement ensuring my advice and recommendation always prioritise your needs. We’re committed to providing clear and transparent guidance so you can trust that the loan we recommend is chosen with your priorities in mind, giving you peace of mind throughout the process.

4. Handling the process for you

Finding and applying for a loan can be time-consuming and overwhelming, with paperwork, comparisons, and lender coordination involved. We handle the details for you and guide you through each step, keeping the process on track, so you can focus on preparing for your next move.

5. Ongoing support beyond settlement

Securing a loan is just one step in your property journey, and our role doesn’t stop there. We’ll assist you in keeping your loan on track, whether it’s through periodic reviews, adapting to changes in your financial situation, or navigating updates to government initiatives. By staying in touch, we can help you plan for future opportunities, such as financing a car or expanding your portfolio, so you’re always prepared for what’s next.

Let’s make it happen

With 2025 offering new opportunities, now is the time to start planning. Whether you’re looking to buy your first home, upgrade, or refinance, we’re here to guide you through the process and answer your questions.

Please contact us for assistance today to get started!