Newsletter - Inner Circle July 2025

Market news.

House prices continue to rise, driven by falling interest rates.

Cotality’s home value index shows Melbourne recording its third straight month of growth, coming in at 0.5 per cent for June 2025.

As we can see here, the larger capital cities are moving to convergence as we sail through 2025 while the smaller capitals are showing more erratic swings (e.g. Darwin).

Most property analysts are forecasting these trends will continue through this financial year provided the forecast three to four cuts in interest rates eventuates. 

But there is a note of caution as increases in property prices may equal savings in borrowing costs. 

As Cotality executive research director, Tim Lawless, noted, "The 2.4 per cent rise in national dwelling values through the first half of the year equates to a dollar value increase in the median dwelling value of approximately $19,000, eroding much of the benefits of lower rates.”

Nonetheless, we at Property Mavens believe the Melbourne market, and regional cities like Ballarat and Bendigo, are well placed to deliver stronger growth this year as rates continue to fall. 

The stand-outs include properties in Inner Melbourne which have seen unit prices grow 5.9% and house prices 3.5% in the June quarter.

For more budget conscious family home buyers, there are some areas within 20 km of the city which host established houses with prices under the Melbourne median of $902,000.

Examples include Fawkner, Heidelberg Heights, Maidstone, Glenroy and Bundoora.

Select parts of these areas have good fundamentals for growth due to their proximity to the city and infrastructure improvements – but you have to be highly selective.

In The Media.

With Australian capital cities sporting some of the highest real estate prices in the world, many would-be investors are looking for more affordable options to enter the market. 

We recently wrote an in-depth analysis of four regional Victorian cities that investors should be targeting, examining their economic fundamentals, population, growth drivers, and infrastructure. 

These regional markets offer compelling entry points for investors, but success depends on understanding the unique characteristics of each location and selecting the right properties within them. Read more: bit.ly/4nxcL3U

Geelong Buyers.

Are you interested in buying a home or investment in one of Australia's fastest-growing urban regions?

Greater Geelong’s population has jumped to 282,000, boosted by internal and overseas migration. Manufacturing is making a comeback, with 34,000 new workers expected over the next five years. Healthcare, retail and construction jobs have grown by more than 30 per cent.

If you’re thinking of buying in Geelong or the surrounding areas, get in touch with Property Mavens. 

Our expert, Michael Kimbel, knows the nuances and long term trends of this exciting market and can guide you to buying the perfect property as a first home, sea change cottage or investment property. 

Find out more, here: bit.ly/3TRjsjN

Why you need a Property Maven to buy an investment property.

Cengiz engaged Property Mavens to find, assess and negotiate to buy a development property in Ballarat.

Cengiz wanted a low maintenance property with the potential to deliver significant capital growth. But he also required a strong rental yield in the meantime to make his project’s finances viable. 

After a four week search, we identified this fantastic property,  securing it at private sale for $30,000 under its market value.

Why you need a Vendors Advocate.

Michele needed to sell her late parents’ family home and this process was always going to involve a great deal of emotion. She wanted a stress-free experience delivered by professionals and a great sales result. 
Michele engaged Property Mavens and we set right to work. 

After interviewing a number of local agents, we found a  suitable professional who demonstrated a strong market knowledge.

Following a five week campaign, this auction produced  three genuine and a sales price $325,000 over reserve. 

Yes, there were a few tears, but this was a great result for Michele.  

Go forth and prosper !

Kind Regards
Miriam Sandkuhler
CEO, Accredited Property Investment Advisor

Buyer and Vendor Advocate, Author of Property Prosperity

e: miriam@propertymavens.com.au
p: 03) 9988 2266 

The Jewell
Suite 209/566 St Kilda Rd
Melbourne VIC 3004
www.propertymavens.com.au

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