Economists are divided on how much the Federal Budget’s housing tax changes will affect property prices, with some predicting only a modest slowing in growth and others warning values could fall by as much as 5% in the short term. Much will depend on how investors respond, how sentiment shifts, and whether broader supply measures can offset any reduction in demand for existing property. While there is some expectation the changes could slightly improve conditions for first homebuyers, the bigger picture remains complex, with ongoing housing undersupply still a major factor.

The Federal Budget’s proposed changes to negative gearing and the capital gains tax discount are some of the biggest housing tax reforms in decades, and there’s a lot to unpack. This article explains what has changed, who will be affected, what will be grandfathered, and what the new rules could mean for investors, first homebuyers, rents and property prices. If you’re still trying to make sense of the detail, this Q&A-style breakdown is a helpful place to start.

Bringing things back to a local level, REIWA has broadly welcomed the WA Government’s $4.7 billion housing spend over four years, particularly the strong focus on new supply, infrastructure and social housing. At the same time, it argues the Budget has not gone far enough in key areas such as affordability for first homebuyers, support for renters and meaningful incentives for downsizers. This article unpacks where the Institute sees progress, where it believes the gaps remain, and what the Budget could mean for WA’s housing outlook.

Small-space living is increasingly being seen not as a compromise, but as an opportunity to live more intentionally. As rising prices and limited supply put pressure on buyers, compact homes, apartments and cleverly designed smaller dwellings are attracting more attention. This article explores how thoughtful design, smart storage and multifunctional spaces can make a smaller home feel both practical and generous — and why ‘right-sizing’ is becoming a more appealing option for many Australians.

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Buyer of house in Booragoon, WA
(5 days ago)

"Mark and Shelley were an absolute pleasure to work with from start to finish. As experienced buyers, we’ve dealt with many agents over the years, and Mark and Shelley stood out as truly exceptional. We really appreciated how patient, knowledgeable, and genuine they were throughout the entire process. Working with them felt seamless and stress-free, even in a competitive market".

Sales activity in Perth during the week ending 10 May was up 28.1% on the week before with 884 transactions recorded. On closer inspection, house, unit and vacant land sales all recorded increases, up 15.8%, 20.5% and a whopping 223.7% respectively. 

Perth’s highest sale price:  Mount Pleasant – $2,700,000

Perth's lowest sale price: Perth – $612,000

Listings
There were 4,601 properties for sale in the metropolitan area for the week ending May 10, which is 25.4% higher than 4 weeks ago but 4.1% lower than the same time last year.

Top performing suburbs – sales

• Rockingham: 17
• Baldivis, Byford: 12
• Maylands, Perth: 10

Top performing suburbs – rentals

• Perth: 18
• Baldivis: 15
• Gosnells, Rivervale: 12
• East Perth: 11

Perth rental market
REIWA members reported 2,246 properties for rent at the end of last week, which is 0.6% up on the previous week, 7% higher than 4 weeks ago but 3.4% lower than the same time last year. Leasing activity was up 18.1% on last week with REIWA members reporting 651 properties leased. This week's number of properties leased is 32.6% higher than 4 weeks ago but 5.7% lower than a year ago. 

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We now have plenty of time to dedicate to appraisals and new listings so if you're thinking of selling, now is a great time to call.

• Shelley on 0417 963 670
• Mark on 0411 552 309