February 2025

The Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ) is welcoming the Reserve Bank of Australia’s (RBA) highly anticipated decision to lower the official cash rate by 25 basis points to 4.10 per cent – improving borrowing capacity and providing mortgage relief. REIQ CEO Antonia Mercorella said the first rate cut in more than four years (since November 2020), may be modest but it was significant for consumer confidence in Queensland’s property market. “With affordability top of mind for many Queenslanders, any measure that reduces borrowing costs is a welcomed development,” Ms Mercorella said. “This cut will make it easier for prospective home buyers to service largerRead More →

The Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ) is welcoming the Federal Treasurer’s move to improve access to home loans for young Australians with student debt and finance for small developers falling short of a perfect, 100 per cent pre-sales uptake. REIQ CEO Antonia Mercorella welcomed the new APRA/ASIC guidance which would exclude HECS/HELP debts from bank’s mortgage serviceability assessments in certain circumstances, while still maintaining strict responsible lending protections. “We support this reform which will boost the borrowing capacity of Australians with student loan debt and trust that it will aid first home buyers in taking that crucial first step onto the property ladder,” MsRead More →

The Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ) stands in solidarity with the residents, businesses and communities of North Queensland as they face devastating flooding. While the situation is still unfolding, the REIQ is anticipating extensive resources could be required for property assessments and helping those displaced from their homes. REIQ CEO Antonia Mercorella said that in the aftermath of flooding, there were often many questions as to how to address the immediate and longer-term needs relating to housing. “Real estate professionals will be focused on helping their clients and community through this disaster,” Ms Mercorella said. “Sales agents and property managers in the affected regionsRead More →