The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has cut the cash rate, and interest rates have come down.
So, is now a good time to buy property?
The answer depends on your unique circumstances and goals. However, generally
speaking, it’s always best to get a leg up on the property ladder sooner rather than later.
Here are some compelling reasons to consider jumping right in, rather than staying on the diving board.
Competitive interest rates
In February, the central bank lowered the cash rate from a 13-year high of 4.35 per cent to 4.10 per cent. Many lenders, including Australia’s big four banks, announced they would pass on the rate cut in full.
Interest rates are far from the levels we were seeing a few years ago when they were in the 2 per cent range, but they are trending downwards, which is good news for prospective borrowers.
Your borrowing power may have increased
With interest rates coming down, your borrowing capacity, or the amount a lender is likely to
lend you, may have increased. In other words, you may be able to afford a property that was previously just out of reach.
For new borrowers on an average income with an average-sized loan, the change in the cash rate is estimated to have increased borrowing power by $9,000 to $10,000. That, combined with the tax cuts that came into effect from 1 July last year and the easing of inflationary pressures, may put borrowers in a better financial position to borrow right now.
Property prices have rebounded
Up until the February cash rate cut, there were clear signs that Australia’s property market was cooling.
After several years of property prices surging across the nation, last year property price growth slowed. Five of the eight capital cities recorded a decline in values between July and December. In October, property prices peaked, then dropped 0.1 per cent in December.
In February, however, national home values increased 0.3 per cent, breaking a short and shallow downturn that lasted just three months. Every capital city except Darwin recorded a monthly rise in values in February. If property prices continue to rise, it may be wise to fasttrack your purchasing plans and take advantage of current prices while they last.
Ready to get started?
Deciding when to buy a home or investment property comes down to your personal financial circumstances and goals. However, there are many good reasons to consider purchasing right now. Before you start house hunting, chat to your mortgage broker about getting your finance pre-approved. That way, you’ll be ready to negotiate with confidence when you find the right property for your needs.
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