Under pressure: where interest rate rises are starting to bite
It’s a tale of two residential rings as some parts of the country’s capitals bear the brunt
2 min
There’s no end in sight for mortgage holder pain, with some parts of the country set for a worse time than others, new analysis suggests.
While economists from the major banks are predicting rates to rise at least another 25 basis points from the current level of 4.1 percent to 4.35 percent, data from CoreLogic reveals it’s the outer suburbs of the country’s capitals most likely to feel the pressure.
Head of research at CoreLogic, Eliza Owen, said repayments on a $750,000 loan have risen by about $1,550 per month since rate hikes began in May 2022, forcing many households to dig deep.
“Households in some regions will feel the pinch more than others,” Ms Owen said.
“The number of mortgaged, owner occupier households are generally highest in outer regions of major cities, particularly Melbourne.
“Looking at SA3 regional boundaries at the time of the 2021 Census, the highest number of mortgaged owner occupiers were in Wyndham (43,807, or around 48 percent of households), Casey –South (38,614, or 56.2 percent of households), and Wanneroo in Perth (38,320, or 54 percent of households).”
Adding further pressure on the ability of mortgage holders in those areas to service their loans, 16 of the 25 regions identified had a weekly median income lower than that of their greater capital city.
Ms Owen noted that Blacktown – North has seen a steady rise in the number of listings in the past four weeks, while the amount of time on the market has been increasing since February. This points to more available properties on the market and greater uncertainty amongst would-be buyers.
Other parts of the market, such as mining towns and inner city areas where there are fewer owner occupier mortgages, may also be under stress, Ms Owen said. Capital gains in some areas have also clouded the impact of higher interest rates on investment mortgage holders.
“It is noticeable that new listings volumes are climbing in some of these markets, where the national trend is seeing a seasonal slowdown,” she said. “This could make it more difficult for recent buyers to make a capital gain if they are struggling to meet mortgage repayments.”
Chris Dixon, a partner who led the charge, says he has a ‘very long-term horizon’
Americans now think they need at least $1.25 million for retirement, a 20% increase from a year ago, according to a survey by Northwestern Mutual
55-storey residential tower in Downtown Dubai
2 min
Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, a world-renowned luxury hotel brand within the Accor group, has partnered with UAE-based developer Sol Properties to unveil a prestigious residential development in Downtown Dubai, setting new standards in luxury real estate.
The 55-storey Fairmont Residences Solara Tower, the latest addition to Downtown Dubai’s skyline, offers breathtaking views of both the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Fountain. Construction is currently in progress, with the project slated for completion by the third quarter of 2027.
This development seamlessly integrates Fairmont’s esteemed brand standards in luxury hospitality with Sol Properties‘ extensive expertise in high-end real estate, establishing new benchmarks in urban living. The residences feature meticulously designed spaces, blending elegance with timeless opulence.
Offering a range of spacious layouts and state-of-the-art amenities, these residences epitomize modern luxury living. Expansive terraces provide residents with stunning views of the Burj Khalifa and the iconic Dubai Fountain.
“We at Sol Properties and Fairmont Hotels & Resorts are elated to provide a completely new standard of luxury living in Downtown Dubai,” said its Founder and CEO Ajay Bhatia.
“Our goal is to provide residents with exclusive amenities and personalized services, thereby setting a new precedent for comfort and convenience for end users,” he stated.
“By combining Fairmont’s exceptional hospitality services with our integrated residential environment and attention to quality, this project is certain to offer residents unmatched lifestyle experiences,” he added.
Combining Fairmont’s exceptional hospitality services with Sol Properties’ commitment to quality, this project promises unparalleled lifestyle experiences. The residential development caters to the evolving needs of urban homeowners with a suite of premium amenities and services. Fairmont Solara Tower uniquely stands out by offering private swimming pools in selected apartments.
Residents will have exclusive access to a range of integrated amenities, including gourmet restaurants, fitness centers, and wellness facilities, providing a resort-like experience within their own homes.
Fairmont’s Global Chief Operating Officer Sami Nasser expressed excitement about adding this new branded residence to the Fairmont portfolio. “We are confident that our expertise in the field of luxury hospitality combined with our pioneer approach to residential projects will allow us to redefine the landscape of luxury residences in Dubai and the broader region,” he noted.
The project exemplifies the ongoing expansion and appeal of luxury living in Dubai, especially with the luxury residential real estate market projected to grow by more than 8% by 2029.
“Additonally, the project will redefine the concept of luxury residences with Dubai’s strategic location and investor-friendly regulations, which attract high-net-worth individuals and investors seeking to diversify their portfolios,” said Nasser.
Fairmont Residences Solara Tower Dubai joins a prestigious portfolio of 16 Fairmont-branded residences, with 22 more projects in the pipeline.
Chris Dixon, a partner who led the charge, says he has a ‘very long-term horizon’
Americans now think they need at least $1.25 million for retirement, a 20% increase from a year ago, according to a survey by Northwestern Mutual
