April 2025 Property Market Insights: What You Need to Know

With global and local shifts reshaping the property and finance landscape, Australians are navigating one of the more complex lending climates we’ve seen in recent years.

At Loanright, we’ve always believed in proactive finance — being ready before the market tells you to act. That mindset is more important now than ever.

From tightening credit policy and economic uncertainty to subtle shifts in how banks are treating borrowers, we’re breaking down what’s happening, what it means for you, and what steps you can take to stay ahead.

APRIL SNAPSHOT: What’s Happening in the Market?

1. Lending is Tightening – Especially for Self-Employed and Investors

Banks are applying stricter scrutiny on income and living expenses. If you’re self-employed, receive bonuses or commissions, or own multiple properties, you might find your options more limited — or more complicated — than last year.

What used to be a straightforward approval may now come with more conditions or require additional documentation.

Client Case in Point:
A married couple on the Sunshine Coast came to us with a strong $200,000 deposit, hoping to secure their dream apartment in Buddina.

By strategically placing their application with a lender that was more favourable to their employment structure and goals, we secured a two-year fixed loan at 5.54% — complete with redraw and extra repayments flexibility.

This wouldn’t have been possible with every lender — and it’s a strong reminder of why tailored advice matters more now than ever.

Read the full case study here

What can you do today?:

• Book in a borrowing power check even if you’re not buying right now. Lending policy changes often and quickly.

• Ask your broker to compare lenders — you might be surprised by how differently they assess your scenario.

2. Slower Property Activity = Opportunity for Prepared Buyers

With fewer listings and slower weekends at open homes, buyers who are ready and confident can often negotiate better deals or access properties off-market. The noise is quieter — and that’s when savvy buyers can make their move.

What can you do today?:

• Ensure your pre-approval is active and updated — it gives you leverage and confidence when making offers.

• If you’re an investor, look at long-term demand drivers like vacancy rates, infrastructure investment, and affordability — not just headlines.

3. Banks Are Quietly Pricing in Economic Uncertainty

While the RBA has held rates, lenders are still adjusting their pricing based on perceived future risk. Some banks are offering limited-time cashback or fixed rate discounts, while others are pulling back on incentives.

What can you do today?:

• If your fixed rate is expiring this year, start planning now — don’t wait until the rollover date. You could save thousands by acting early.

• Review your investment loans and consider EOFY tax strategy alignment with your accountant and broker.

REAL TALK: Five Smart Things to Do This Month

1. Review Your Borrowing Power — It’s Likely Changed

Many people assume they can borrow the same as last year. In reality, even unchanged incomes can see different results due to policy updates and increased servicing buffers.

Action: Ask for a borrowing reassessment — it’s quick, free, and could open (or close) some options for you.

2. Don’t Rely on One Lender’s Opinion

Not all lenders have the same appetite. Some are tightening up on high-LVR or investor loans, others are more generous with certain income types or debt structures.

Action: Work with a broker who will compare multiple lenders and scenarios — not just default to the bank you’ve always been with.

3. Refinance Smarter, Not Just Cheaper

Yes, rates matter — but structure matters more. The best loan is the one that works with your financial goals, whether that’s equity access, faster repayments, or setting up for renovations.

Action: Talk to your broker about structure before chasing the lowest rate.

4. Focus on Fundamentals, Not FOMO

Property headlines often create noise. The smart money looks at the fundamentals: jobs, infrastructure, vacancy, population growth, and liveability.

Action: Explore suburbs with planned developments and consistent demand — like parts of West Caboolture — rather than chasing capital city buzz.

5. Think 6–12 Months Ahead (Especially for EOFY)

Self-employed borrowers and investors should be planning for EOFY now, not later. Your financial position at 30 June affects how you’re assessed in the new financial year.

Action: Review your tax strategy and structure with both your broker and accountant before June.

How Can We Help You?

At Loanright, we’re not just looking at the numbers — we’re looking at the story behind them. We understand how changing policy, shifting markets, and personal circumstances intersect. And we’ll help you stay ahead of the curve.

Whether you’re buying, refinancing, investing, or simply want a professional second opinion — we’re here for it.

Want clarity in a changing market?
Book a complimentary loan strategy session with us — and make your next move a confident one.