Category: Blog

Create a retreat at home: 7 simple DIY tips

Every October, Australia comes together to shine a much-needed spotlight on mental health during Mental Health Week, coinciding with World Mental Health Day on October 10. While mental health isn’t something confined to a single day or month, the aim is clear: to spark conversation, break down the stigma around seeking help, empower us to prioritise wellbeing,…

Rental pressures continue amid tight housing supply

On the Sunshine Coast, and particularly in Caloundra, rental demand remains strong. Vacancy rates are exceptionally low, hovering around 0.5–1% for houses and units, keeping competition high among tenants. Popular coastal suburbs such as Kings Beach, Golden Beach and Currimundi are seeing rising rents, reflecting ongoing lifestyle demand, population growth, and limited housing supply. For…

Housing market shifts highlight affordability divide

Australia’s housing market remains a story of contrasts, with affordability continuing to divide buyers, renters and investors. The latest Cotality Housing Value Index shows national dwelling values rose 0.7% in August, driven largely by gains in Sydney, Brisbane and Perth, while smaller capitals and regional areas showed only modest growth or even slight declines.

For homeowners, equity growth has been reinforced in most markets, while investors are benefiting from rising rents against tight vacancy rates. But for first homebuyers, affordability pressures are more acute than ever, with borrowing costs at record highs relative to household incomes. The data highlights an uneven outlook ahead—larger capitals remain resilient, while regional and smaller city markets are flattening—signalling that local conditions and affordability will be key drivers through the rest of 2025.

Day Trips from Caloundra: School Holiday Adventures Less Than 1 Hour Away (Plus One Worth the Train Ride!)

School holidays are almost here, and if you’re looking for ways to keep the kids entertained without breaking the bank, a day trip could be the answer. Luckily, living in Caloundra means you’re spoilt for choice – with beaches, hinterland escapes, and family-friendly attractions all within an easy drive. Here are some fun adventures you…

How to buy your first home or investment property sooner: schemes, savings, and strategies

Between interest rates, the cost of living and inflation, saving for a first home or investment property often feels out of reach. And while it’s no easy feat, there are several clever ways – from leveraging government incentives to strategic saving tips – that can help get your hard-earned cash working harder, sooner. Here’s what first…

Investment tips to look out for in July

Unless it’s your full-time job, tracking the Australian property market isn’t easy – trends and affordability are constantly on the move, the pandemic-induced population shuffle continues its momentum, and according to CoreLogic research, regional property values are holding strong, outpacing capital city declines. With interest rates stabilising, government-led new buyer policies and infrastructure projects coming to the…