Author: Premela R.

Global Property Investor – Australia’s Property Market Slows as Interest Rates and Costs Rise

Global Mortgage Group

USA

The 30-year mortgage rate in the U.S. has jumped to 7.79%, the highest it’s been since 2000. This spike is making homes less affordable for many buyers, putting pressure on the housing market. While home sales have held up so far, experts are concerned that if rates keep climbing, buyer demand could start to slow in the coming months.

Source: Surging Mortgage Rates Threaten U.S. Housing Market Momentum

U.K. 

New home construction in the U.K. has dropped to its lowest level since 2009, with fewer than 88,000 homes started in the year through June 2024. High interest rates and sluggish development are making it harder for Prime Minister Keir Starmer to reach his goal of building 1.5 million homes over the next five years.

Source: Lowest U.K. Housing Starts Since 2009 Reveal Challenge for Labour

Canada 

Canada’s housing market is still facing serious challenges, and some experts think the problems may be more deep-rooted than temporary. High household debt and slow wage growth are making homes less affordable, even though prices have started to level out. Many Canadians are holding off on buying, worried that the affordability crisis could last a long time.

Source: Canada's Housing Crisis: A Feature, Not a Bug

Australia 

Australia’s housing market is starting to cool, especially in major cities, as rising interest rates and affordability issues make buying harder for many. In October 2024, the Victorian government launched an initiative to speed up building permits, focusing on townhouses to help ease housing shortages and support first-time buyers. But across the country, the market overall is slowing as borrowing costs continue to climb.

Source: Australia's Housing Market Shows Signs of Cooling in Major Cities 

Dubai 

Dubai’s luxury property market is still seeing price increases, even as other global luxury markets cool down. Data from October 2024 shows demand is strong, with prices rising, though new builds are becoming smaller. With more people wanting to live in the city, developers are focusing on high-end, compact properties that make the most of prime urban locations.

Source: Luxury Housing Markets Slow Globally, Prices Surging in Asian Cities

Singapore 

Private home prices in Singapore dipped by 0.7% in Q3 2024 as high interest rates and strict lending rules cooled the market. Still, some high-end properties, particularly those favored by wealthy foreign buyers, continue to do well. Analysts expect steady demand in the luxury sector to hold through the end of the year, even as the broader market slows down.

Source: Private Home Prices Decline 0.7% in Q3; Analysts Expect Momentum to Persist for Rest of Year

Global Property Investor – Singapore’s Luxury Real Estate Sees Surge in Private Home Sales Despite Market Challenges

USA

The 30-year mortgage rate in the U.S. has climbed to 6.54%, its highest since early August. While buyers face higher costs, new home sales jumped in September to their fastest pace in over a year, showing strong demand in the market despite rising rates.

Source: Mortgage Rates in U.S. Rise for Fourth Week, Climbing to 6.54%

U.K.

In October 2024, U.K. home sales rose 29% from last year, with the highest number of properties on the market in a decade, giving buyers more options and bargaining power. Despite strong sales, affordability is still an issue, with some buyers waiting on mortgage rate cuts and budget updates. The outlook for 2025 is positive but depends on affordability improvements.

Source: Number of homes sold in U.K. up by a third, says Rightmove

Canada

The Bank of Canada made a bold move by cutting its key interest rate by 50 basis points to 3.75% in October 2024. This action is aimed at reigniting the housing market after sluggish sales. While this rate cut could attract more buyers, concerns remain about rising household debt levels, which are already among the highest in advanced economies. Some potential buyers might delay their purchases, expecting further rate reductions.

Source: Bank of Canada's Deeper Cut Aims to Reignite a Sluggish Housing Market

Australia

Victoria is dealing with a severe housing crisis, prompting the state government to introduce new measures in October 2024 to expedite building permits, particularly for townhouses. This strategy is part of a broader plan to increase the housing supply in urban areas and ease affordability pressures for both homebuyers and renters. The plan is intended to help younger buyers, especially millennials, gain access to more affordable housing​.

Source: Premier plans to make Victoria the 'townhouse capital' of Australia in bid to help millennials own homes

Dubai

Dubai's real estate market continues to experience rising property prices, but homes are getting smaller. Data from October 2024 shows that while prices are increasing, particularly in key urban areas, the average size of homes has decreased. This reflects the growing demand for luxury properties despite space constraints in the rapidly expanding city​.

Source: Dubai Homes Are Getting Smaller While Property Prices Increase

Singapore

In October 2024, a single major project launch defied the slowing trend in Singapore’s residential market. While rising interest rates and stricter lending rules have reduced overall transactions, this project attracted strong interest, especially from wealthy individuals and foreign buyers. Despite challenges in the broader market, luxury properties remain in high demand.

Source: How a Single Project Launch Bucked the Trend in Singapore’s Residential Market

Global Property Investor – Canada’s Home Sales Rise 1.9% in September as Affordability Concerns Persist

USA

The U.S. is facing a growing housing crisis, with an estimated 5.6 million vacant homes despite high demand in the housing market. Vacancy rates have surged as affordability worsens due to rising mortgage rates and limited supply. This disconnect between available homes and potential buyers continues to pressure the market, contributing to the ongoing housing crisis. Experts suggest that without intervention, the U.S. could face further complications in addressing this housing supply-demand imbalance.

Source: 5.6 Million Vacant Homes and Counting—There Is a Massive Housing Crisis Brewing in America

U.K.

U.K. house prices experienced a slight rise in October 2024, but affordability remains a major issue, especially for first-time buyers. While some regions have seen stabilisation, particularly outside of London, rising mortgage rates and the cost of living continue to impact the ability of buyers to enter the market. The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) noted that while demand is increasing, affordability challenges persist, particularly for renters facing mounting pressures in urban areas.

Source: Office for National Statistics Sees Sixth Consecutive Month Of House Prices Rises, Up 2.8% In Year To August

Canada

Canada's existing home sales rose by 1.9% in September 2024, reflecting a rebound in market activity. This growth follows a period of sluggish sales, as buyers begin to return despite higher mortgage rates and affordability challenges. However, while sales are increasing, the housing supply remains tight, with prices continuing to rise in key cities like Toronto and Vancouver. The imbalance between supply and demand remains a significant issue, worsening affordability concerns for many Canadians.

Source: Canada Existing Home Sales Jump 1.9% in September

Australia

Australia’s property market continues to attract strong investor interest, despite slowing growth. Citi’s Australia Chief recently noted that five of the top six most in-demand companies are in the real estate sector, driven by expectations of a potential central bank easing cycle. While home values rose by only 1.0% in Q3 2024, demand remains steady in inner-city areas, boosted by population growth. However, suburban markets in Sydney and Melbourne are cooling as cautious buyers and higher listings contribute to the slowdown.

Source: Citi's Australia Chief Says Real Estate Tops Investor Interest

Dubai

A record-breaking leasing deal in Dubai’s luxury property market saw a waterfront mansion on Jumeirah Bay Island rented out for AED 15.5 million annually. It emphasizes the high demand for ultra-luxury properties in Dubai, particularly among high-net-worth individuals and investors. This deal showcases Dubai’s prominence as a global hotspot for luxury real estate, with a surge in high-value transactions.

Source: Jumeirah Bay Island Mansion Sets Rental Record in Dubai

Singapore

Singapore’s private home sales saw a sharp rise in September 2024, reflecting renewed buyer interest in the property market. While the overall housing market has faced some challenges this year, the luxury property segment remains robust, with strong demand from both local and international buyers. The increase in sales indicates growing confidence in the market, with high-end properties driving the resurgence. This trend is expected to continue as investors seek stable, high-value investments.

Source: Singapore Private Home Sales Rose Sharply in September

Global Property Investor – Australia’s Property Market Hits $11 Trillion Despite Growth Slowdown

Global Mortgage Group

USA 

U.S. mortgage rates rose to 6.32% for a 30-year fixed loan, the biggest increase since April. Freddie Mac’s economist noted that the rise reflects economic strength, despite higher rates making affordability tougher. While some buyers may hesitate, others are advised to act now since lower rates may not return soon. Melissa Cohn suggests focusing on finding the right home first and “worry about rates secondly,” as future rate drops remain uncertain.

Source: Mortgage Rates Jump Most Since April, Sending 30-Year to 6.32% 

U.K. 

Although renters continue to face mounting pressure, the U.K. property market shows signs of resilience as it recovers from past economic instability. House prices have started to stabilize in some regions, but affordability remains a significant issue, especially outside London. The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) notes that while demand increases, affordability issues are still challenging for many potential buyers. 

Source: U.K. property market strengthens, pressure on renters intensifies, RICS says

Canada 

Canada's apartment rental market reached historic tightness in 2023, with vacancy rates at a record low of 1.5%. Rent for a two-bedroom unit increased by 8%, highlighting the affordability crisis, especially in cities like Toronto and Vancouver. The demand, fueled by high immigration, continues to outpace supply, worsening affordability issues across major cities.

Source: Canada’s Apartment Rental Market Tightest on Record in 2023

Australia

Australia’s property market is now valued at $11 trillion, but growth has slowed. Home values rose only 1.0% in the September quarter, the smallest increase since early 2023. Growth is slowest in Sydney and Melbourne’s suburbs due to cautious buyers and more listings. Inner-city areas are holding steady thanks to demand and population growth, but affordability remains a challenge as prices stay high.

Source: Australian property market reaches $11 trillion as national price growth slows 

Dubai 

Dubai's real estate market continues to thrive, attracting global investors with its appealing lifestyle and high rental yields. Popular areas like Dubai Marina and Jumeirah remain in demand, driven by favourable market conditions and a growing interest in luxury and mid-market properties. The city's real estate sector is a hot spot for investors looking to relocate or diversify their portfolios. 

Source: Looking To Relocate Overseas? Check Out These Hot Real Estate Markets With Dubai Continuing To Be One Of The Top Since The Pandemic

Singapore

Singapore’s property investment sales rose by 8% in Q3 2024, reaching S$8.3 billion. Demand is strong for high-end properties, with interest from both local and international buyers. While the overall market faces some challenges, such as a dip in private home sales, the luxury property market remains solid.

Source: Singapore Property Investment Sales Pick Up in Q3, Up 8% QOQ to S$8.3 Billion 

Global Property Investor – Singapore Private Home Prices Fall 1.1% in Q3 Amid Cooling Demand

International Mortgage Lenders

USA

For the first time in seven weeks, U.S. mortgage rates increased, with the average 30-year fixed rate rising to 7.31% in September 2024. Despite this, borrowing costs remain lower than earlier in the year when rates reached 7.22% in May. This rise is attributed to broader economic factors, including inflationary pressures, which may continue to influence buyer behavior in the coming months.

Source: Mortgage rates in U.S. increase for the first time in seven weeks

U.K.

According to mortgage lenders, the U.K. housing market has experienced the fastest home price growth since February 2024. Despite economic uncertainty and fluctuating interest rates, house prices have surged. While this growth is most notable in regions outside of London, ongoing challenges, such as interest rate hikes, still contribute to affordability issues for buyers nationwide.

Source: U.K. posts fastest home price growth since February, mortgage lender says

Canada

Canada's housing affordability crisis is expected to linger for the next decade, with soaring prices in key cities like Toronto and Vancouver. While some markets, such as Calgary, are seeing more affordable options, the nationwide housing affordability challenge remains a significant concern, particularly as high prices outpace income growth.

Source: Canada's housing affordability crisis to linger for a decade

Australia

Australia's property market is showing signs of cooling due to rising interest rates, which have weakened buyer demand. While inner-city areas like Sydney and Melbourne remain more resilient due to continued population growth, the broader market is facing challenges. Affordability concerns persist, with property prices and rising interest rates putting pressure on buyers across the country.

Source: Australian Property Market: Pace Of Price Growth Slows

Dubai

Dubai's luxury housing market for properties priced above $10 million is beginning to cool down. In the third quarter of 2024, high-end sales dropped nearly 30% compared to the previous year, but there was still an increase from the second quarter. The city's luxury property inventory has also sharply declined, leading to a scarcity of available high-end homes.While areas like Palm Jumeirah remain strong, new neighborhoods such as Palm Jebel Ali are emerging as hotspots.

Source: Dubai's Booming Market for $10 Million-Plus Homes Is Tempering

Singapore

Private home prices in Singapore fell by 1.1% in the third quarter of 2024, marking the first dip in three years. This decline was driven by a slowdown in demand for high-end properties, particularly in prime locations like the Core Central Region (CCR). Despite this drop in private home prices, other housing segments, such as HDB flats, saw price increases, suggesting a shift in the market.

Source: Private home prices fall 1.1% in third quarter, first dip in a year; HDB prices rise

Global Property Investor – Canada’s Housing Market Grows 1.3% Amid Affordability Concerns

International Mortgage Loans
International Mortgage Loans

USA

Mortgage rates in the U.S. have dropped for three consecutive weeks, hitting the lowest level in two years. This decline could make home buying more accessible, particularly in areas where borrowing costs had been a significant concern. However, affordability issues persist in certain regions, like Florida, where rising insurance premiums add to homeownership costs.

Source: U.S. Mortgage Rates Fall to Lowest in Two Years

U.K.

The U.K. property market is still grappling with the aftermath of the economic instability triggered by rising interest rates and the mini-budget crisis of 2022. Despite some recovery, house prices remain volatile, especially in areas outside London. The market continues to bear the scars of weakened demand and affordability challenges, with experts predicting a slower recovery in the coming years.

Source: Property market still showing the scars from Liz Truss's mini-Budget says Foxtons

Canada

Canada’s housing market experienced modest growth in the summer of 2024, with home sales rising 1.3%. Cities like Calgary and Ottawa saw increased activity, while Toronto and Vancouver struggled with high prices and affordability issues. Though some smaller markets show promise, overall sales remain below historical averages, and long-term affordability remains uncertain.

Source: Canada’s Housing Market Growth Flattens Over Summer

Australia

Australia’s property market is facing a downturn, particularly in outer and middle-ring suburbs of cities like Sydney and Melbourne, where interest rate hikes have reduced demand. While these areas are seeing declining property values, inner-city markets remain more resilient, supported by population growth. However, the overall market faces affordability challenges​.

Source: Sydney property market forecast for 2024

Dubai

Dubai’s real estate market is booming, with strong demand for both apartments and villas, particularly in areas like Dubai Marina and Jumeirah. Off-plan properties are increasingly popular due to attractive payment plans, while the resale market is benefiting from high rental yields. Investors are drawn to the city's favorable market conditions, making it a hot spot for both luxury and mid-market properties​.

Source: Is the Dubai Real Estate Market Destined for Collapse? Insights from Experts

Singapore

Despite a significant slump in private home sales in September 2024, Singapore's condominium prices have surged, driven by demand for luxury properties in areas like Orchard Road. The U.S. Federal Reserve's rate cuts have lowered borrowing costs, benefiting buyers with variable-rate mortgages. This dynamic has maintained high property prices despite overall sales declining​

Source: Inside the Great Singapore Real Estate Standoff

Global Property Investor – U.K. House Prices Bounce Back with 2.2% Growth in August Following Rate Cuts

Global Mortgage Group

USA

The Federal Reserve’s 50 basis point rate cut on September 18, 2024, is expected to lower borrowing costs, providing relief for homebuyers and investors. Mortgage rates may decrease, spurring demand for housing in regions such as the Northeast and Midwest. However, affordability concerns remain in areas like Florida, where rising insurance costs continue to be a challenge for the housing market.

Source: Key takeaways from the Fed’s decision to deliver a jumbo-sized interest rate cut

U.K.

London’s housing market defied the national trend in July, showing resilience despite broader declines in property prices across the U.K. While other regions experienced price drops due to high inflation and mortgage costs, London maintained stable growth, driven by strong demand in the capital. Analysts note that London’s unique market dynamics, including foreign investment and limited housing supply, have insulated it from the national downturn.

Source: London house prices defy national mood, drop in July

Canada

In August 2024, Canadian home sales increased by 1.3%, particularly in cities like Calgary and Ottawa. While Toronto and Vancouver remain sluggish due to high home prices and affordability challenges, smaller urban areas are experiencing renewed interest. The recent interest rate cuts are making it easier for buyers to enter the market, although overall sales remain below historical averages. The long-term trend is uncertain, with affordability still being a significant issue in major cities.

Source: Canada Existing-Home Sales Climb 1.3% in August From July

Australia

Australia’s housing market is facing a crisis, with over a quarter of suburbs experiencing declining property values. Interest rate hikes have weakened demand, particularly in outer and middle-ring suburbs in cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. Despite strong population growth, rising rates have made housing less affordable, driving prices down in suburban areas. Inner-city markets are more resilient but are not immune to the slowdown.

Source: The severity of Australia’s housing affordability crisis is obvious - this is how politicians could fix it

Dubai

Dubai’s real estate market continues to attract investors, with both apartments and villas showing strong demand. Key investment areas such as Dubai Marina, Downtown Dubai, and Jumeirah remain popular. Buyers are drawn to off-plan properties due to favorable payment plans, while resale properties are seeing increased interest due to strong rental yields. Thorough property inspections and financial planning are essential for those entering the market, particularly with high demand for both luxury and mid-market properties.

Source: Dubai real estate guide: Resale market trends, opportunities and popular areas to look out for

Singapore

The U.S. Federal Reserve’s recent interest rate cut is influencing Singapore’s financial landscape, particularly affecting mortgage and savings interest rates. As borrowing becomes cheaper, homeowners with variable-rate mortgages may see lower monthly payments, and real estate investors could benefit from reduced financing costs. Analysts predict that the real estate market, especially in high-demand areas like Orchard Road and Marina Bay, could experience a rise in investor activity as financing becomes more affordable.

Source: CNA Explains: What does a Fed rate cut mean for you in Singapore?

U.S. Banks DO NOT want you to know this!

Bridging Loan Canada

It’s been a hectic week with several conferences in town and F1 next week. As we are all waiting for the Fed’s decision this week, I wanted to update everyone on a new loan program that has been very popular since we launched it.

Did you know you can qualify for a U.S. mortgage by using ONLY the rental income of your investment property - there is no need to show personal income!

Introducing - GMG U.S. Rental Coverage Ratio 1.0 Program

“PROJECTED” RENT ÷ [ MORTGAGE + TAX/INSURANCE/HOA ] ≥ 1.0 = YOU QUALIFY!

We use the rental income generated from the property investment, and there is no need to qualify using your personal income!

It’s common-sense underwriting, designed specifically for overseas investors, including both foreign nationals and U.S. expats.

What Factors Affect the Rental Coverage Ratio 1.0

GMG U.S. Rental Coverage Ratio 1.0 is affected by Operating Income and Debt Service. I’ll talk about this below, but Operating Income (rent) is trending up, and Debt Service (mortgage rates) is trending down. That is to say, future margins will be higher (income up + costs down).

There are 2 constants in the U.S. real estate market:

1. Property/Rental prices will go up (income)

2. Rates will eventually be lowered (cost)

Here’s why:

1. There is a shortage of 7M homes in the U.S. 

With mortgage rates where they are now, the marginal buyer cannot afford to purchase a home and is forced to rent. Many institutions like Blackstone are also trying to buy up as much supply as possible so they can dictate pricing. 

Trend = income up

2. We can assume there will be a 25-50bps cut this week in the Fed Funds rate.  Mortgage rates have already factored this in and are at multi-year lows now. 

Trend = costs down

What makes the U.S. real estate market so unique is that you can buy a home today and then refinance it at a lower rate when rates fall or when the price goes up.

Here is a snapshot of our U.S. mortgage solutions:

No age restrictions on loan tenure: Maximize your yield potential with 30–40-year amortization. Regardless of whether you are 19 or 99, you can qualify for the longest tenure possible. (This is a U.S. government anti-discrimination policy)

No limit on the number of properties owned with maximum LTV financing: We understand building a real estate portfolio requires leverage. Global Mortgage Group’s loan programs allow you to obtain the maximum LTV available regardless of the number of properties owned.

30-year loan program with 10-year fixed interest only: Global Mortgage Group features a 30-year amortization on many of our loans. The 10-year interest-only option is a fantastic way to lock in a long-term fixed rate with the flexibility to keep it for 30-years without seeing any rate adjustment. Rates go up; your payment remains the same. Rates go down; refinance into a lower rate or stay with the comfortable payment you have locked in. It’s that flexible!

Refinance when rates go down: When rates decrease, your Global Mortgage Group loan officer will analyze the lower rate options and present a clear and concise proposal that shows a breakeven point for any costs incurred in the refinance. 

Loan programs in all 50 U.S. states: Our loan programs are available in every city and state. Want to buy a condo on the beach in Waikiki, Hawaii, or refinance a single-family home in Houston, Texas — We have loan programs.

No U.S. credit required: Our loan programs do not require the borrower to have U.S. credit. We’re able to use your home country credit if available. If you don’t have a credit reporting agency in your home country, no problem – speak with one of our U.S. loan officers for an exception. We do it all the time.

U.S. expat loans with no W2 and foreign earned income: Are you a U.S. expat frustrated by the lack of a W2 or dealing with foreign-earned income? These are not problems for Global Mortgage Group. For U.S. expats, we make it as easy as if you were living and working in the U.S. and walking into your local bank. There is no premium in pricing, and it’s truly that easy.

Free pre-approval letters in 72 hours: The first thing we recommend for anyone looking to purchase a property is to get pre-approved. This is for a couple of reasons: 1) You should fully understand and be comfortable with the mortgage loan term and tenure you’re obtaining 2) You will need a pre-approval rate before any offer on U.S. property will be taken seriously. 

There has never been a better time to own U.S. residential real estate as an investment!

In summary, GMG U.S. Rental Coverage Ratio 1.0 offers a groundbreaking solution for both U.S. expats and non-resident investors. By focusing on rental income instead of personal earnings, this program helps people overcome typical mortgage hurdles. With a dedication to clear and accessible mortgage options, Global Mortgage Group remains at the forefront of real estate financing. Secure your path to financial success with GMG U.S. Rental Coverage Ratio 1.0today. Contact us to learn more.

www.gmg.asia

Global Property Investor – U.S. House Prices Forecast to Rise Over 4% in 2024

Global Property Investor - U.S. House

USA

Goldman Sachs predicts U.S. home prices will rise by over 4% in 2024, driven by falling mortgage rates and steady demand. Strong price growth is expected in areas like the Midwest, Northeast (New York, Boston), and parts of California (especially San Diego and San Jose). However, regions like Florida, hit hard by affordability issues and rising insurance costs, are expected to perform worse.

Source: U.S. House Prices Are Forecast to Rise More Than 4 Percent Next Year

U.K.

The U.K. housing market showed signs of bouncing back in August 2024, thanks in large part to a drop in Bank of England interest rates. A RICS survey highlighted that increased demand from buyers is pushing prices upward. Although conditions vary across regions, the overall trend is one of recovery.

Source: U.K. Housing Market Recovered Further in August

Canada

Canada’s housing market is likely to pick up in 2024 thanks to recent interest rate cuts. While the market has cooled, particularly in places like Toronto’s condo scene, prices aren’t expected to rise much in the near term. These rate cuts might make it easier for first-time buyers to enter the market, though affordability will still be tough for many. We may see more competition as borrowing becomes cheaper, but long-term price trends remain unclear, especially with different dynamics in various regions.

Source: Fall housing market could be ripe for 1st-time buyers. Here’s why

Australia

More than a quarter of Australian suburbs, particularly in major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, have seen property values decline. This trend is largely due to interest rate hikes, which have curbed buyer demand, especially in middle and outer-ring suburbs where affordability is more impacted. Despite strong population growth, the market has cooled, with key suburban areas experiencing price drops, while inner-city areas remain more resilient but still affected.

Source: More Than a Quarter of Australian Suburbs See Value Drop 

Dubai

When considering renting or buying property in Dubai, it's essential to factor in lifestyle needs, market trends, and property types. The choice between apartments and villas, the benefits of off-plan properties, and a careful comparison of prices and amenities are critical to making the right investment. Proper inspections and financial planning are also important.

Source: What to know before renting or buying in Dubai

Singapore

Singapore’s real estate market remains strong, with record-breaking transactions reflecting investor confidence. The sale of an office building on Orchard Road for US$24 million in September 2024 highlights rising interest, particularly in the commercial sector. This sale signals robust foreign and domestic investment interest despite cooling measures introduced in the residential sector.

Source: Singapore’s Record-Setting US$24 Million Office Sale on Orchard Road Signals Investor Interest

Portugal

The Algarve region of Portugal is seeing a surge in demand from wealthy American buyers, driving up property prices. This trend is spurred by Portugal's attractive golden visa program, mild climate, and lifestyle appeal, making it a top destination for foreign investment in luxury homes.

Source: Portugal’s Algarve Housing Market Sees Surge in Wealthy American Buyers

www.gmg.asia