Economic updates

Where is the “city of love”? While many may think the romantic cities in the world are Paris, Venice or even New York, this year we have decided it is Brisbane.

There was no rate cut last week but with markets now pricing in two cuts this year, it seems to be enough to drive demand for property.

A distinct change to the interest rate outlook occurred at the end of last year.

Revving up for the upcoming Melbourne Grand Prix, let's dive into the Aussie suburbs that have an undeniable love affair with their four-wheeled companions.

Prices have continued to rise in spite of increasing interest rates. Limited supply is often offered as an explanation, especially a limited supply of affordable options.

One might think that the suburbs with the most swimming pools would be those located in warm climates, and far from the coast.

Perth remains the strongest market in Australia with house prices up 15.3 per cent over the past 12 months and 0.6 per cent up in January.

Australian median house prices increased by $75,000 over the past 12 months. In many parts of Australia however, the increases were far higher, despite a sharp rise in interest rates during the year.

Over the past decade, luxury houses have experienced a far stronger rate of growth than the rest of the market.

Playing tennis is gaining popularity but finding a home with a tennis court is becoming more difficult.

Perth is now the strongest property market in Australia when it comes to house price growth. Like the rest of Australia, many of the expensive suburbs are leading the charge.

Inflation continued its painfully slow downward trajectory in October, resulting in rates remaining on hold in December.