From January through to April 2025, the Australian property and finance landscape has been anything but quiet.
Brisbane and the Gold Coast have continued their upward trajectory in property values, driven by strong demand from first home buyers and savvy investors alike. On the finance side, mortgage brokers have found themselves busier than ever — assisting clients navigating the transition off ultra-low fixed rates, consolidating debt, and reshaping their finances to suit a higher-rate environment. Despite the challenges, there’s been a noticeable shift in momentum, with more buyers entering the market, increased interest in townhouse and unit living, and early signs pointing to a more competitive lending space as banks prepare for potential rate cuts in the coming 12 to 16 months.
Real Estate Market – Brisbane & Gold Coast (2025 So Far)
Domain Report (March 2025):
Brisbane: Property prices have surged by 8.2% annually, with strong demand for townhouses and units, especially from first home buyers.
Gold Coast: Units are up 6.4% annually, and houses saw a modest rise of 3.1%, showing resilience despite rate hikes.
Regional SEQ remains popular due to lifestyle appeal and relative affordability.
Key Observations:
Townhouses and units are increasingly favoured due to affordability and supply shortages in the detached housing market.
Buyer’s agents are on the rise — helping clients navigate complex and fast-moving markets.
Interest Rates & Lending Trends (2025)
RBA Cash Rate (as of April 2025): 4.10%
The RBA has held the rate steady in recent months, but forward guidance suggests easing could begin in the next 12–16 months.
Inflation has eased, and the focus is now on economic stability and easing mortgage pressure.
Broker Trends:
Many clients are coming off fixed rates (locked in during the COVID years at ~2%) and facing much higher variable rates (5.5–6.5%+).
Refinancing is ramping up – especially for debt consolidation and cash flow relief.
Brokers are reshaping loan structures to support clients through the adjustment.
Opportunities & Challenges for Buyers (2025)
Opportunities
First home buyers are coming out strong – prepping early and often willing to consider build options or townhouses/units to enter the market.
More lending products and incentives for FHBs are expected in the federal budget (May 2025).
Commercial and SMSF property finance is gaining traction again – often for tax and long-term investment reasons.
Expected interest rate cuts in 2026 will bring more competition from banks and better refinancing options.
Challenges
Serviceability buffers remain high, so buyers need strategic loan advice.
The fixed-rate cliff is hitting harder this year – brokers play a vital role in restructuring these loans.
Some clients are “rate-shocked” and need education around realistic repayments and long-term strategies.
Stock levels are tight, especially in Brisbane’s middle-ring suburbs and coastal Gold Coast areas.
Why SW Brokerage Brokers Matter More Than Ever
In today’s complex lending environment, having a finance or mortgage broker on your side isn’t just helpful — it’s essential. With so many Australians coming off record-low fixed rates, navigating rate rises, and adjusting to tighter borrowing conditions, the role of a broker has evolved beyond simply securing a loan. A great broker helps you strategise, structure, and sustain your finances. From first home buyers needing guidance on grants and loan options, to investors building portfolios, to families refinancing for cash flow relief — brokers are now the frontline advisors in an ever-shifting financial world. It’s not just about finding the lowest rate; it’s about making smart, holistic decisions that align with your life goals.