23/09/2024
Rising Cost of Living Outpaces Housing Affordability for Aussie Home Buyers
A new report from Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI) provider Helia reveals that the rising cost of living has now become the biggest challenge for Australians aspiring to buy a home.
54% of respondents highlighted cost-of-living pressures, overtaking housing affordability, which was identified by 43%.
According to Helia’s 2024 Home Buyer Sentiment Report, the difficulty of saving for a deposit has increased for 85% of respondents.
In Sydney, it now takes 14 years on average to save for a 20% deposit on a house, while in Melbourne and Brisbane it’s around nine years.
Despite these challenges, optimism is on the rise, with 7 in 10 prospective buyers believing now is a good time to purchase property.
Families are playing a bigger role, with 63% of first-home buyers receiving financial assistance from their parents in 2024.
However, this support is shifting from upfront deposits to helping with ongoing costs like mortgage payments.
As saving becomes harder, LMI is gaining popularity. 77% of first-home buyers are considering using LMI to buy with less than a 20% deposit, up from 59% last year.
The report also highlights the sacrifices home buyers are making, with many working overtime, taking on second jobs, and cutting back on non-essential spending.
Despite the challenges, buyers remain determined, exploring options like moving to outer suburbs or buying smaller homes and apartments.
For many, mortgage brokers have become a crucial resource, with 91% of first-home buyers saying they are likely to seek professional help to navigate the complex market.