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In a landmark moment for Sydney's real estate market, the city’s median asking price for houses has surpassed the $2 million mark, hitting $2,012,000 as of 15 April, according to SQM Research.
This figure includes Greater Sydney regions such as the Blue Mountains and Central Coast.
The development was confirmed by SQM's managing director, Louis Christopher.
SQM Research has highlighted that their methodology tracks vendor asking prices, providing an advance insight into housing market trends. Historically, these figures have been indicative of the future trajectory of house prices. As per Domain, the median sold price for houses reached a record $1,645,400 in the last quarter of 2024.
The forecast for Sydney's housing market suggests further price hikes are likely. A combination of anticipated rate cuts by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) and significant policy initiatives promises continued growth in housing values. Financial markets project five rate cuts this year, which could lower the official cash rate to 2.85% by the year’s end. Additionally, the Albanese government has proposed a universal 5% housing deposit guarantee for first-time homebuyers, effective from January 2026.
Under Labor's proposed policy, the government will guarantee up to 15% of the loan value, allowing buyers to avoid the average $23,000 lenders’ mortgage insurance cost. As Sydney's population could reach over 8 million by the 2060s due to sustained overseas migration, the demand for housing in the city is expected to intensify.
The increasing population is likely to result in a trend towards higher density living, with apartments gradually replacing single detached houses. This transition will further amplify housing values in the city.
The surge in Sydney's housing prices reflects broader economic policies and market dynamics. The anticipated decrease in mortgage rates and the easing of housing access through policy reforms could continue to fuel the housing market's growth. This scenario is likely to strain affordability, impacting prospective homebuyers who may find the market increasingly inaccessible.
Looking ahead, the housing market is expected to keep climbing, especially as supportive economic conditions persist. The impact of government policy on housing affordability, particularly for first-time buyers, will be central to future discussions as these initiatives take effect. Moreover, as Sydney becomes denser, strategic urban planning will be critical to maintaining the city's liveability amidst rising population pressures.
The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) has announced a significant policy change aimed at mitigating risks in the housing market. Effective February 2026, APRA will implement a cap on high debt-to-income (DTI) home loans, limiting banks to issuing no more than 20% of new home loans with DTI ratios of six times or higher. This measure applies to both owner-occupier and investor loans, excluding new housing developments. - read more
In a notable shift within Australia's financial sector, Japanese banking giants Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC) and Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (MUFG) have emerged as key drivers of growth in business lending. As of July 2025, business lending volumes across Australia's top 10 authorized deposit-taking institutions (ADIs) reached A$925 billion, with SMBC and MUFG leading the expansion. - read more
Loan Market Group's (LMG) Asset Finance Exchange (AFX) has achieved a significant milestone, reporting approximately $80 million in settlements within its inaugural year. This accomplishment underscores the increasing demand for asset finance solutions among Australian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Find out now if you qualify and compare rates, offers and options from multiple lenders - without a credit check! - read more
The Australian Finance Industry Association (AFIA) has welcomed Housing Australia's recent decision to expand lender access to the Australian Government's 5% Deposit Scheme. This strategic move is set to increase competition among lenders and provide prospective home buyers with greater access and choice in the housing finance market. - read more
The Australian Finance Industry Association (AFIA) has expressed strong support for the Albanese Government's recently unveiled National AI Plan, viewing it as a significant step toward unlocking the vast economic and productivity benefits that artificial intelligence (AI) can offer to Australia's finance sector. This strategic initiative is poised to position the nation at the forefront of AI integration within financial services, potentially contributing up to $60 billion to the economy. - read more
Smart borrowing is crucial for individuals and businesses in Australia to manage their financial goals effectively. With a well thought-out borrowing strategy, you can optimize your finances, minimize costs, and achieve your financial objectives. - read more
Understanding your credit score is crucial, especially when you're looking to secure a loan. Whether it's for a home, a car, or personal use, a good credit score can make a significant difference in the type of loan you qualify for and the interest rates you'll be offered. - read more
With the rising costs of living and the all-too-familiar financial hurdles, saving for large purchases can seem like a daunting task for many Australians. From buying a new car to securing the deposit on a home, significant expenses require a level of financial commitment and foresight that goes beyond everyday spending. - read more
Welcome to the beginning of your financial journey. As an Australian, understanding the nuances of financial planning is pivotal to securing your economic future. Whether you're applying for your first loan or on the cusp of retirement, the financial decisions you make will have a lasting impact on your life. This guide aims to walk you through each stage, providing practical advice that you can apply to your own circumstances. - read more
Freelancers and self-employed individuals in Australia often navigate a unique set of financial challenges. The unpredictable nature of income can make budgeting and long-term financial planning more difficult compared to those with a steady paycheck. As work comes and goes in fluctuating cycles, financial stability can sometimes feel elusive. - read more
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Personal Loan: A personal loan is usually made by a financial institution to an individual person without the need for the provision of asset security. Personal loans can generally be obtained for any worthwhile purpose subject to the lending criteria of the financ
