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A UST r A li AN HOME VA l UES r ECOVE r TO NEW r ECO r D H i GHS
i N MA r CH
BY CORELOGIC
Australian property values reached new heights in March, reversing a recent downward trend, according to CoreLogic’s national Home Value Index.
Values increased 0.4% over the month, the second consecutive month of growth in the national index, following a short three-month decline where values dipped 0.5%.
The monthly rise in values was broad-based, with every capital city except Hobart recording a positive change, along with each of the rest-of-state regions. The monthly change across the capitals ranged from a 1.0% gain in Darwin to a -0.4% fall in Hobart.
“Improved sentiment following the February rate cut is likely the biggest driver of the turnaround in values, along with the cut’s direct
influence of a slight improvement in borrowing capacity and mortgage serviceability,” said Tim Lawless, research director for CoreLogic, which will soon rebrand to Cotality.
“With the rate-cutting cycle expected to be drawn out, it will be interesting to see if this positive inflection in values can last in the face of affordability constraints.”
Sydney and Melbourne, which have the largest weighting in the Home Value Index, look to have turned a positive corner, with values across both cities rising over the past two months.
Following a -2.2% decline between September ‘24 and January ‘25, Sydney home values remain just -1.4% below their record high.
In Melbourne, where the downturn has been long-running following the March 2022 peak, values remain -5.6% below their record high, despite rising 0.9% over the past two months.
Although values are still increasing across the mid-sized capitals, the pace of gains has slowed noticeably, especially in Perth ,
where d ownward revisions over recent months have put values slightly below peak levels (-0.05%) from October last year. Perth home values have led the five-year upswing among the capitals, rising 75.4% since March 2020.
The ch ange in values across the different ‘price points’ – or value tiers - has started to even out.
Following a clear out-performance from the lower quartile of the market since mid-2023, the rate of change across the value segments is starting to converge. This was most apparent in Sydney where upper quartile values have increased by 0.6% over the past three months compared with a 0.3% rise across the lower quartile.
Earlier research demonstrated that relatively expensive markets have historically shown stronger responses to reduced cash rate settings, especially houses in Sydney and Melbourne. Most of the remaining capitals continue to see the lower quartile record a higher rate of change relative to the upper quartile, however, the gap is getting smaller.
Regional markets continue to outperform the capitals , with the combined regionals index rising 0.5% compared with a 0.4% gain seen across the combined capitals. However, the growth trajectory looks to be converging as the capital
city trend accelerates and the regional trend holds steady.
Across the regional SA3 level sub-markets, the strongest growth conditions continue to be skewed towards areas of regional WA and Queensland.
The Mid-West of WA, which includes Geraldton, tops the list for annual growth with a gain of 25.4%, followed by Queensland’s Townsville (23.5%), Gladstone (22.2%), Central Highlands (21.8%) and Mackay (20.2%).
A r E BUYE r ’S AGENT FEES
WO r TH i T?
BY CHRIS GRAY, CEO, YOUR EMPIRE
When I bought my first property in the UK, I’d never heard of a buyer’s agent – and certainly didn’t have to weigh up whether their fee was worth it. Fast forward to today, with decades of experience and over $20m in my personal portfolio, I’d never recommend buying property without professional help.
Of course, I’m biased. I’m a buyer’s agent myself.
But bias aside, let’s unpack the value buyer’s agents bring, the fees involved, and who they’re really for – plus a few red flags to watch for.
WHY YOU’RE HERE
Chances are you’re here for one of two reasons:
1. You’re exhausted by the process
- From finance to frustrating agents, open homes, and endless scrolling, it’s become a full-time job.
2. You’re time-poor – You know your time is better spent elsewhere and would rather delegate the grunt work to an expert.
Both are valid – and both are exactly why buyer’s agents exist.
WHAT DOES A BUYER’S AGENT ACTUALLY DO?
A buyer’s agent works exclusively for the buyer. They:
• Understand your brief and goals (growth, yield, family home, etc.)
• Introduce key experts like mortgage brokers and solicitors
• Research properties (on and off-market)
• Inspect, vet, and value properties
• Negotiate or bid on your behalf
• Manage the purchase from offer to settlement
• Coordinate post-settlement needs like property managers or trades Their role is to act as your advocate, removing stress, emotion, and rookie errors from the equation.
In the US, buyer’s agents are common – even required in some states. In Australia, we’re catching up. And while the number of agents is growing, not all are created equal. Some are seasoned professionals. Others? Let’s just say they’re the “Temu” of real estate – cheap, but risky.
MY STORY
Before becoming a buyer’s agent, I was an accountant earning $80k. I invested every spare dollar into property and quickly realised I could retire early. When I asked to salary – sacrifice a Ferrari, my employer knew property was paying better than accounting.
Friends and family soon asked me to buy property for them too – and that’s how my agency was born. They weren’t paying for just my time – they were paying for my contacts, negotiation skills, due diligence, an d experience.
BUYER’S AGENT VS. REAL ESTATE AGENT
Let’s clarify roles:
Buyer’s Agent Sales Agent
Works for The Buyer The Seller
Paid by The Buyer (flat fee or %) The Seller (commission)
Goal Get you the best deal Get top dollar for the seller
Relationship Acts as your advocate Represents vendor’s interests
A real estate agent works for the seller. A buyer’s agent works for you. Simple.
WHO PAYS FOR A BUYER’S AGENT?
Our typical clients include:
• Busy professionals – With income, but no time.
• Investors & developers – Who want strategic, long-term gains.
• First home buyers – Who don’t want to stuff up their first big purchase.
• Overseas/interstate buyers –Who need boots on the ground.
• Luxury buyers – Who want access to off-market exclusives.
WHAT YOU’RE PAYING FOR
• A great buyer’s agent:
• Saves you time (and sanity)
• Finds properties you’d never see online
• Brings data and logic to emotional decisions
• Negotiates to save you tens of thousands
• Spots issues before they become costly regrets
• Provides market education tailored to your goals
Yes, we charge a fee – but that cost is small compared to what we save you.
THE DOWNSIDES
It wouldn’t be fair not to address the cons:
• Cost – It’s an extra fee, usually 2% of the purchase price.
• Trust – If you’re not inspecting properties yourself, you’re relying on our word. Choose wisely.
• Inexperience – Not all buyer’s agents have a solid track record. Vet them like you would a surgeon.
And p lease – don’t choose your agent based purely on price. If it seems too good to be true…
“Going for the cheapest buyer’s agent is like thinking you’re getting a genuine Guc ci bag on Temu.”
ARE THE FEES DEDUCTIBLE?
Buyer’s agent fees are usually added to your cost base when calculating capital gains.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT
BUYER’S
AGENT
Ask about:
• Licensing and insurance
• Their personal property portfolio
• Experience in your target suburbs
• Track record (and ask for client references)
• Transparency around fees and process
• Communication style
• Conflicts of interest or referral kickbacks
You want someone who’s bought through booms, busts, pandemics, and everything in between – not just someone who got licensed in the last 12 months.
FINAL VERDICT
Could you buy a property yourself?
Of course. But you could also repair your toilet or manage your own tax return. Doesn’t mean it’s a smart move.
The true value of a buyer’s agent isn’t just finding the right property – it’s avoiding the wrong one.
If you value your time, want peace of mind, and don’t want to overpay in one of the most competitive markets in the world, then yes – buyer’s agent fees are absolutely worth it.
ABOUT THE CONTRIBUTOR
Chris Gray is CEO of Your Empire, a buyers’ agency that buys homes and investments for time-poor professionals – searching, negotiating, renovating and managing property on their behalf. Chris has spent over 10 years as the host of ‘Your Property Empire’ on Sky News Business channel, where he’s interviewed various heads of property research companies and major industry figures. Chris is a qualified accountant, buyers’ agent and mortgage broker. For more information, visit www.yourempire.com.au and follow Chris on Facebook: @ChrisGraySydney
i S YOU r HOME A B r EED i NG G r OUND FO r MOU l D? 4 WAYS TO GET
Mould is not just unsightly and potentially damaging to your home, it can also pose serious health risks. Here’s how to eliminate it.
Mould is a type of fungus that thrives in damp, moist conditions and, according to Asthma Australia, 50% of Australians have had mould or dampness in their home in the last 12 months, with one third (34%) reporting mould.
“Mould associated with damp buildings can trigger nasal congestion, sneezing, coughing, wheezing, respiratory infections and worsen asthma and allergic conditions,“ according to Better Health Channel from Department of Health, Victoria.
The good news is you can stop mould from taking over your home.
This is where IXL Innovative Dehumidifier Systems (IDS) come into play - they’re wall-mounted, tankless units designed to control and maintain humidity at a comfortable level, prevent mould and improve indoor air quality.
“The IDS IW25-5 Wall Mounted Dehumidifier with combined Bi-polar Ionisation Technology controls excessive moisture that contributes to poor indoor air quality, property damage, mould,comfort complaints, and possible liability risks," says the Senior Brand Manager of IXL Innovative De humidifier Systems.
And the best part? An IDS drains directly to your existing plumbing and can remove up to 31.5 litres of condensation per day to reduce relative humidity in spaces up to 140 square metres – perfect for the northern states who have been dealing with La Nina for the last few years.
Here are some simple tips to rid your home of mould. But first…
WHY IS MOULD A PROBLEM?
As well as being an eyesore, mould can be harmful to our health if it’s not controlled.
Mould can also cause structural damage to your home, leading to decay and corrosion which can result in collapsing ceilings, or rotting window frames or floorboards – and these can cost a fortune to fix.
WHY MOULD GROWS IN THE HOME
Mould tends to grow in places without a lot of air circulation and
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where warm, moist air meets a cold surface.
Bathrooms and kitchens are highly susceptible to mould, as well as the spaces around windows, curtains, and doors due to the constant release of steam and condensation.
This is especially true in regions with high humidity such as northern New South Wales, Queensland and Northern Territory, where warm weather, high rainfall and high humidity over the last few years have meant homes have endured constant exposure to moisture in the air, creating an environment where mould can flourish.
It can also occur because of water intrusion – whether from a leaky roof or plumbing issue, or flood damage.
HOW TO TELL IF YOU HAVE MOULD
The tricky part is just because you can’t see mould, it doesn’t mean it’s not there.
“Mould is not always easy to recognise as it may be growing behind walls, under flooring, tiles or wallpaper.”
“You may be able to identify it from musty odours and stain, or discolouration of affected surfaces.”
The most common moulds are black, green or white, but it can also range in colour from grey to orange to brown and may change depending on age or life-stage.
4 WAYS TO PREVENT MOULD
1. Roll up your sleeves and start scrubbing
From natural remedies to chemical solutions, you may be able to remove visible mould with some old-fashioned elbow-grease –although unless you’ve identified and controlled the cause, this is just a temporary fix and likely only effective for minor outbreaks.
2. Call in the professionals
The Senior Brand Manager says only a specialist mould removal company and proper ventilation equipment can completely
eliminate the underlying cause of the mould problem.
“As a guide, you can expect to pay between $500 and $2000 for the removal of mould in a residential home – though depending on the scale and location of the mould, this can sometimes be higher according to Choice .”
3. Stop mould before it starts
The best way to handle mould is to prevent it.
“Maintaining good indoor air quality with adequate light, regularly opening doors and windows to improve air on days where relative humidity is low and reducing it with a humidifier are key to preventing mould growth.”
4. Install an IDS
An IDS helps maintain indoor relative humidity level under 60% to prevent mould growth, maintain a healthier and more comfortable living environment, protect your home from damage, and reduce dust in your home.
So with all these tips under your belt, you’ll be able to keep your home mould free this summer, and subsequently enjoy a healthier home.
Click here to read the full article
G i VE YOU r HOME THE G l OW-U p i T DESE r VES: EASY WAYS TO BOOST
ST r EET A pp EA l
They say you never get a second chance at a first impression – and that couldn’t be truer when it comes to your home. Whether you're preparing to sell or just want to fall back in love with your space, street appeal plays a major role in how your home is perceived. It’s the first thing people see, setting the tone for what’s inside.
The good news? You don’t need a full-scale renovation to make a big impact. With a few thoughtful styling updates, you can take your home’s exterior from drab to fab – on any budget.
Here are some easy ways to elevate your home’s curb appeal and create a warm, welcoming vibe from the moment someone arrives.
GIVE YOUR FRONT DOOR SOME LOVE
A fresh coat of paint on the front door can completely change your home’s look. Rich navy, deep green, or classic black are all on-trend, but don't be afraid to go bold if it suits your style.
Add a modern door knocker or statement handle for a touch of personality. Finish the look with a stylish doormat and a pair of potted plants on either sid e for symmetry.
UPGRADE YOUR HOUSE NUMBERS AND LIGHTING
Small details ma tter. Swapping out outdated house num bers or a tired
porc h light for something sleek and modern can instantly lift the space.
Choose finishes that complement your home’s existing hardware –brass, matte black or brushed steel all work beautifully for a cohesive, polished look.
CLEAN AND REFRESH YOUR FACADE
It might sound simple , but pressure washing the driveway, walls, and front steps can bring your home back to life. Add fresh mulch to garden beds, prune overgrown hedges, and pull out any weeds.
Keep your front garden lowmaintenance with native Australian plants like kangaroo paw or lilly pilly for a modern, drought-tole rant look.
STYLE YOUR PORCH LIKE A ROOM
If you’ve got a front porch or verandah, think of it as an extension of your interior. A bench seat or outdoor chair with cushions and a small table can create a cosy, lived-in feel.
Layer with textiles like a small outdoor rug and cushions in earthy tones to add comfort and charm.
ADD WARMTH WITH OUTDOOR LIGHTING
G ood lighting doesn’t just improve safety – it adds instant atmosphere. Solar path lights, uplights in the garden, or festoon lights across the porch all help create a warm, welcoming glow.
Use warm white globes (not harsh blue-toned ones) for a more inviting feel, especially if you’re hosting evening inspec tions or events.
DON’T FORGET THE FENCE AND GATE
Your fence frames your property. If it’s chipped, leaning, or outdated, a coat of paint or a full replacement can completely transform your home’s presentation.
Dark fencing colours like monument grey or deep green are trending right now, and they provide a stunning contrast to lush greenery and lighter home exteriors.
Street appeal isn’t just about looks - it’s about creating a feeling. Whether you're welcoming guests, potential buyers, or simply enjoying the view from the street, a few small updates can make your home feel fresh, stylish, and well-cared for. Embrace these changes as a way to express your personal style while enhancing your home's overall charm.
Getting your home ready to sell? Or simply want to boost its everyday charm? Talk to us for expert advice on the updates that will make the biggest impact – and attract the right buyers.
BrEATHE liFE iNTO YOUr HOME: SiMplE WAYS TO STYlE WiTH SCENT
When it comes to home styling, we often focus on the visual – colours, textures, lighting and layout. But there's another sense that plays a powerful role in creating atmosphere: scent. The right fragrance can elevate your home, evoke emotion, trigger memories, and make your space feel warm, inviting and distinctly you. Let’s explore how you can harness the power of scent to enhance your living environment.
WHY SCENT MATTERS IN THE HOME
Scent has a direct link to the brain’s limbic system, which is responsible for emotion and memory. That’s why certain smells can instantly transport you to a childhood memory, a favourite holiday, or simply bring a sense of comfort. In home styling, scent isn’t just a finishing touch – it’s an integral part of creating a complete sensory experience.
CHOOSE A SIGNATURE SCENT FOR EACH ROOM
Think of scent as another layer of your home’s personality. Each room can have its own fragrance identity:
• Living Room: Warm, welcoming scents like sandalwood, amber or vanilla.
• Kitchen: Fresh, clean notes such as citrus, basil or mint to complement the space.
• Bedroom: Calming fragrances like lavender, chamomile or rose to promote relaxation.
• Bathroom: Spa-like aromas such as eucalyptus, tea tree or sea salt for a clean and refreshing feel.
WAYS TO INCORPORATE FRAGRANCE INTO YOUR HOME
There are plenty of stylish and effective ways to add scent into your space:
• Candles: Offer ambience and scent in one. Opt for soy or beeswax for a cleaner burn.
• Reed Diffusers: Low-maintenance and perfect for steady, subtle fragrance.
• Essential Oil Diffusers: A great choice for adjustable intensity and natural scents.
• Room Sprays: Ideal for a quick refresh or to set the mood before guests arrive.
Just like your decor shifts with the seasons, so can your home scents.
In summer, reach for light, crisp notes like citrus or cucumber. In winter, go for warming fragrances like cinnamon, pine, or clove. Seasonal rotation keeps things fresh and helps your space feel in tune with the time of year.
KEEP IT SUBTLE
When it comes to fragrance, less is more. Aim for a gentle aroma that enhances the space without overwhelming it. Be mindful of layering scents from different rooms – they should complement, not clash.
YOUR SCENT STORY
Scent has the power to turn a house into a home. It brings warmth, personality and comfort, wrapping your space in an invisible embrace that guests will notice and remember. Whether you're setting the mood for a cosy night in or creating a vibrant atmosphere for entertaining, the right fragrance makes all the difference.
