Happy New Year to you all. Welcome to 2012 and the first Negotiator eNews Email for the year. We hope you had a safe and well-rested holiday break.

The Reserve Bank of Australia do not meet in January, therefore the interest rates remain as they did in December 2011.

Australian housing markets have generally struggled for growth through 2011, with reduced buyer activity and decreases in median house prices being recorded in all capital cities.

But, that looks like it’s all set to change in 2012, with sustained house price growth becoming evident. Demand for housing is set to intensify in 2012, which will see housing markets re-energised. After falling by 4.2% over the year to October 2011, Australian Property Monitors are forecasting that the national median house prices should recover to rise between 3 and 5% over 2012.

Here are what the Australian Property Monitors are predicting for the 2012 median house price growth:

National          3 to 5%
Sydney            3 to 5 %
Melbourne        0 to 3%
Brisbane           5 to 10%
Adelaide           0 to 3%
Perth               5 to 10%
Hobart             0 to 3%
Darwin             5 to 10%
Canberra          3 to 5%

Source: State of the Market, December 2011

For anyone with investment properties it’s wise to always have Landlord Insurance:

There are a number of ways to make insurance more economical.

·        Pay annually: in most cases, paying by direct debit means you’ll pay more over the course of a year. Pay up front, and you’ll save.

·        Security: install a few simple measures like window locks, smoke alarms and security systems. Insurers like secure properties.

·        Use a property manager: many insurers prefer it when a property is professionally managed.

Until next time, keep well.

Remember, if you need help, I’m just a phone call away on
0411 233 293.

Regards,

Gregg Mountford

Negotiator Finance