It’s going steady

11 August 2026 Reading time: 3 minutes Today the RBA announced that it would be keeping the cash rate on hold at 4.35%. It’s the second hold this year, following the three rate hikes back in February, March and May. It’s worth being clear about what a hold actually means, because it’s easy to read […]

North vs. South: Where to invest in Perth.

3 August 2026 Estimated read time: 6 minutes Key Summary: North and South of the River both offer strong investment opportunities, with different suburbs suited to different long-term strategies. Emerging suburbs like Eglinton, Karnup, Whitby and Mariginiup are benefiting from planned infrastructure, new communities and future growth. Established areas such as Baldivis and Brabham continue […]

Good News for WA Home Buyers

Ray Shanks Finance Broker 13 July 2026 If you’ve been told you don’t earn enough to buy a home, or that you need to wait until returning from parental leave before applying, it could be worth taking another look. On 8 July 2026, Keystart announced several significant changes to its lending policy, effective immediately. The updates […]

The new property tax playbook

15 July 2026 Estimated read 2 mins What you need to know to protect and plan your property strategy Recent tax changes are reshaping the property investment landscape. Whether you already own investment properties or you’re planning your next purchase, understanding what these changes mean for you is essential. This guide breaks down the new tax […]

What the proposed Capital Gains Tax and negative gearing changes could mean for property investors (and everyone else)

Ray Shanks Finance Broker 14 May 2026 No doubt your staffroom was like ours yesterday. Using the new fancy coffee machine (thanks boss) has led to conversation and speculation about the impact the Federal Budget may have on investors, first home buyers and even renters. But does it really matter? It’s important even if you’re not […]

2026 Federal Budget: The tax advantages now favour new builds

13 May 2026 Estimated read 7 mins The 2026 Federal Budget has reshaped the investment landscape overnight. If you’ve been considering your first investment property, here’s what changed, why it matters, and why new construction is now the clearest path forward. What happened last night On the evening of 12 May 2026, the Federal Government […]

What you need to know about the negative gearing changes

11 May 2026 Estimated read 5 mins The federal budget has brought one of the most talked-about policy shifts in Australian property in years. Negative gearing is changing and if you’ve been planning your next investment move, you’re probably wondering what this means for you. Let’s cut through the noise. First, what is negative gearing? […]

Big updates for first home buyers in WA

07 May 2026 The WA State Government has announced changes to stamp duty exemptions,  concessions, and the First Home Owner Grant, giving first home buyers more support when building. Here’s what’s changing: First home buyers will pay no stamp duty on vacant land purchases up to $450,000 (previously $350,000), with reduced rates available up to […]

Rates are up again – here’s what to know

05 May 2026 The RBA has increased the cash rate by 0.25%, bringing it to 4.35%. While rate rises have been expected, that doesn’t make them any easier — especially when you’re managing a mortgage alongside everyday costs. This marks the third increase in 2026, with ongoing global pressures continuing to push inflation higher. What […]

It’s on the way up: Keystart raises their price limits

15 April 2026 Keystart has announced an update to its property price and income limits, opening the door for more home buyers across WA. If you’ve been feeling just outside the criteria, this could be worth another look. As of today: The property price cap has increased to $860,000 (previously $800,000) across both metro and […]