December 2025 Newsletter
HEY NEIGHBOUR!
As we come to the close of 2025, I find myself reflecting not only on another full and meaningful year in business, but also on the people, relationships and stories that make what we do so special. This year, like many, has had its challenges — rising costs, changing legislation, and ongoing market shifts — but it has also reminded me just how resilient, supportive and connected our community truly is. We have been privileged to be a part of so many different stories and journeys during the past year.
I want to personally thank each of you — our owners, renters, partners and supporters — for the trust you place in our team and in me. Supporting your homes, your investments and your property journeys is something I take great pride in, and I feel incredibly grateful to work alongside my staff and such wonderful people.
As we move into the festive season, I wish you and your loved ones a safe, restful and joy-filled Christmas, and I send my heartfelt best wishes for health, happiness and exciting new beginnings in 2026. May the year ahead bring confidence, stability and fresh opportunities for you all.
Lastly, let’s hope Carlton get their act together and start playing some real footy – Go Blues !!
Thank you for being part of our neighbourhood — I truly look forward to continuing the journey together in the year ahead.
Warmest wishes,
Carmela
MARKET INSIGHTS
We strive to stay up to date on the latest market trends. Here are a few articles we think are worth reading.
Update on Issues Facing Victoria (reuters.com)
- Victoria’s debt is rapidly increasing State debt, with the Auditor General warning that state debt will reach record levels by 2028–29 and that the government has no adequate plan to manage it.
- Financial mismanagement is highlighted with electricity up 8% and gas up 7% in the past year, adding significant pressure to household budgets, especially in the southeastern suburbs.
- Rising land tax is pushing up rents, increasing cost-of-living pressures for Victorian households. (Read more)
- Violent crime is rising with increases in home invasions and carjackings linked to weakened bail and sentencing laws, contributing to growing safety concerns.
- Political tensions are escalating ahead of the next election, with the Opposition criticising the government’s performance on debt, cost-of-living pressures and public safety, arguing that Victoria needs stronger leadership and direction.
Claremont Financial x The Neighbourhood - Update from Claremont Financial (claremontfinancial.com.au)
Spring has boosted confidence in the market, with steady rates and rising property values creating strong opportunities to refinance, invest or access equity.
- Interest Rate – Cash rate remains at 3.60%, but rising inflation keeps the outlook uncertain.
- Property Prices - Victoria / Melbourne – Median house prices sit around $953k–$983k, with steady growth continuing.
- Investor Activity & Lending (Victoria) – Investor activity in Victoria is increasing strongly.
- Supply & Demand Dynamics – Low supply and strong demand are supporting higher prices.
- National Market Snapshot (NSW, QLD, WA, etc.) – Prices are up 0.6% in October and 7.5% annually, with WA and QLD leading growth.
• Use rising equity to renovate, invest or improve your finances.
• Benefit from strong lender competition for sharper deals.
Why Professional Property Management Is Now Essential (view.com.au)
New research from the Consumer Policy Research Centre reveals that four in five Victorian landlords now rely on property managers to navigate repairs, maintenance and increasingly complex rental laws — with “accidental investors” feeling the most overwhelmed.
- 30% of accidental landlords are unsure of their legal obligations under current rental laws.
- 41% struggled with tenant applications in the past year.
- Rising compliance requirements, safety checks and minimum standards are creating ongoing confusion and delays.
New data from Mission Australia’s 2025 Youth Survey shows young Australians are facing unprecedented pressure from the rising cost of living and growing housing insecurity.
- 64% of young people now list cost of living as their top concern — the highest level ever recorded.
- Housing stress is accelerating, with concerns around housing and homelessness doubling since 2022.
- Mental health is directly affected by financial and housing instability, impacting daily life and future outlook.
