Australian Housing Affordability and Household Debt

Australian Housing Affordability and Household Debt

We have long argued that Australian real estate prices are at unaffordable levels. It is, of course, easy to prove ones own argument by finding information and statistics that support it. So, we set out to disprove ourselves, by finding current expert opinion from reputable sources.

Focus on…Thailand: Business as Usual?

Focus on…Thailand: Business as Usual?

To the outside world, the picture of Thailand is one of crisis and chaos, however, since absolute monarchy ended in 1932, there have been 27 prime ministers, 18 constitutions, 11 successful coups and a number of tempestuous demonstrations. Such a history of tension has inevitably led to a relatively steely resolve amongst the Thai people and institutions. Quite simply, they’re not fazed easily.

“View from the Bridge” – Is China’s Property Market about to Crash?

“View from the Bridge” – Is China’s Property Market about to Crash?

Michael Marquette’s “View from the Bridge”: There is an increasing fear that China is headed toward problems in the very near future. There are even people who expect the Chinese economy to crash sometime in the next 9 to 12 months. The Chinese property market is booming and China’s Central Bank is attempting to dampen speculation by lifting its reserve requirement ratio by another percentage point, so that most Chinese banks will now have to hold 17% of their deposits on reserve.

What is Really Driving Australian Property Prices?

What is Really Driving Australian Property Prices?

In this article of Michael Marquette’s “View from the Bridge”, he looks at the factors that are REALLY driving Australian property prices, and an undersupply of real estate is not one of them. Instead, he focuses on the the changing nature of demographics, driven not just by prices but also demographics.

Michael Marquette’s “View from the Bridge”: Australia’s Property Boom

Michael Marquette’s “View from the Bridge”: Australia’s Property Boom

You only need to read the headlines with such stories as “Record Bidding”, “Hot Auctions”, to see that the property market is once again red hot. With such record-setting, red-hot fever, however, comes concerns. The issue of affordability equally makes the headlines, particularly with the Reserve Bank of Australia having increased interest rates the last five out of six times that they have met and building approvals either stagnant or declining. Additionally, wages are not growing anywhere near fast enough to keep up with the cost of living.

Australian Interest Rates Rise- the Shape of Things to Come for 2010

Australian Interest Rates Rise- the Shape of Things to Come for 2010

Seeking to cool a growing economy, the Reserve Bank of Australia has increased interest rates from 3.75% to 4% in a move widely expected by experts. As the only major economy to avoid recession (generally considered to be two consecutive quarters of negative growth), and the first to raise rates from 50-year lows as the economic crisis eased, it follows three consecutive rises at the end of 2009 but is the first rise for 2010.

Australian Real Estate Outlook for 2010

Australian Real Estate Outlook for 2010

Australia has performed very well in the last 12 months, in fact better than any other OECD country. So can we expect that to continue without end? Can we expect property prices and rents to continue to endlessly increase in Australia? A sensible and careful answer would be that Australia has performed better than most countries but to expect this to continue and take this for granted would be ill advised.

Are Interest Rates in Australia Going to Rise Soon?

Are Interest Rates in Australia Going to Rise Soon?

Michael Marquette’s “View from the Bridge” this week looks at where Australian interest rates are heading: It is widely believed that Australian interest rates will increase by a further 0.25% when the Reserve Bank meets on February 2. The markets have already factored in the rise, with positive economic data showing continued strength within the economy.

Nothing to Celebrate: New South Wales Slips to Last Place

Nothing to Celebrate: New South Wales Slips to Last Place

It’s hard to believe that Australia’s most populous State and home of Sydney (the Year 2000 Olympic City) is the worst performing economy in the country. New South Wales is in trouble and has been for some time. It’s time for our leaders in New South Wales to have vision and purpose – something that has been missing for over a decade.

Christmas Light Competition in Sydney

Christmas Light Competition in Sydney

Christine Watson of Marquette Turner Luxury Homes writes: On a warm balmy evening, there is no better way to keep children amused than to drive the suburban streets of Sydney and look at homes and gardens that are decorated in  the “True Christmas Spirit”.   There are many Santas waving, Reindeers pulling sleds, Big Red Bags Full of Gifts, and lights twinkling everywhere.

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