Industry news

Rates have gone up three times this year. The cash rate is parked at 4.35%. Sydney and Melbourne prices dipped last quarter. And every property headline is screaming a different prediction. So perhaps you’re sitting on your deposit thinking: I’ll just wait until things settle down. Completely understandable. Also, probably costing you more than you think. Because waiting has a price tag. And in this post I’m going to show you exactly what it is, next to exactly what buying costs at today’s rates.

A negatively geared property doesn’t “pay for itself through tax.” If you lose $7,836 a year on an investment property and claim the deduction at 30%, you get $2,351 back. That means you’re still $5,485 out of pocket. And from 1 July 2027, not everyone can claim it at all.

The negative gearing and capital gains tax changes passed Parliament on 25 June 2026. The new rules apply from 1 July 2027, but only to properties purchased after 12 May 2026. Anything before that date is grandfathered.

If your mortgage repayments feel tighter right now, you're not alone. Roy Morgan's April 2026 research shows nearly three in ten Australian mortgage holders are experiencing difficulty meeting their repayments, with stress rising following the RBA's rate increases in February, March and May.

Capital city rents have hit $782.57 a week and they're showing no signs of slowing down. If you're renting and wondering whether you can afford to buy, the numbers could be closer than you think, especially with lower deposit options available in 2026.

🏘️ Investing in property is a popular strategy for Australians looking to build long-term wealth. Whether you're considering your first investment or expanding an existing portfolio, understanding how investment property lending works and what to expect is key to making informed decisions.