Each week, First Home Loan Weekly News Wrap Australia brings a clear, independent recap of Australia’s housing headlines. We sort the noise into need‑to‑know stories on property market movements, policy changes that affect first‑time buyers, regional and city trends, and practical implications for your plans. Expect plain‑English context, quick takeaways, and links to trusted sources, so you can stay informed and confident about your next steps — in under ten minutes.
This Week:
Mortgage competition heats up as big lenders cut some variable rates while fixed rates edge higher at one bank; the RBA meets on 28–29 September and a hike is still possible. Auctions soften with more sellers shifting to private treaty, improving negotiation windows. ABS data shows the total value of housing fell in the June quarter and one big bank now expects a larger price decline, but affordability remains tight with higher rates. July approvals dipped and build costs rose, pointing to ongoing supply constraints. Practical takeaways: get pre‑approval, compare deals, consider low‑deposit and government‑backed options, and plan carefully for new builds.
EPISODE 2973 | First Home Loan Weekly Property News Wrap | Wed, 16th Sep 2026
17 Sep 2026 | Paige Estritori
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Read Full Transcript:
Hello and welcome to First Home Loan Weekly Property News Wrap, Im Paige Estritori, and its Wednesday 16 September 2026.
First, mortgage competition is back. Several big lenders trimmed some variable home loan rates to chase fewer borrowers, even as fixed rates nudged higher at one major bank. Economists still think the Reserve Bank of Australia, or RBA, could lift the cash rate later this month or in November, with the next meeting on 28–29 September. If youre a first‑home buyer, dont rely on loyalty pricing — new‑customer deals can be sharper — so get a free eligibility check and compare options before you commit.
Next up, auctions are wobbling. New data shows more sellers are bailing on auction campaigns and shifting to private‑treaty sales as clearance rates soften. That can mean more time to negotiate and include finance or building clauses. Have your pre‑approval ready and stay flexible on your offer strategy so you can move when a listing changes tack.
Meanwhile, the value of Australias housing stock slipped over the June quarter, and a major bank now expects prices to fall further from the peak — potentially the biggest slide in decades if it plays out. Cheaper prices dont automatically mean easier repayments while rates stay high, so run the numbers carefully. We can help you compare low‑deposit pathways and check whether a government guarantee or grant could reduce the deposit gap.
And finally, new‑home supply looks set to stay tight. The Australian Bureau of Statistics, or ABS, reported July dwelling approvals dipped again, and construction costs are still rising year on year. That mix makes it harder for developers to launch projects, which can limit fresh stock. If youre weighing a new build or off‑the‑plan, factor in longer timelines and ask your broker about construction‑loan settings and contingencies.
Thats the wrap. For tools, plain‑English guides, and a free first‑homebuyer loan assessment, head to first-home-loan.com.au. Im Paige — thanks for listening, and Ill see you next week.
The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.
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