In 2025 every seller of every property will need to have a clearance certificate from the ATO confirming they’re an Aussie resident for tax purposes. No certificate? Buyer must send 15% of the agreed sale price directly to the ATO. You might only get it back at tax time. 

Effective 1 January 2025, the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) has introduced updates to the Foreign Resident Capital Gains Withholding (FRCGW) rules. These changes affect all property sellers, eliminating the previous $750,000 threshold and increasing the withholding rate to 15%. This aim to enhance the collection of tax liabilities from non-residents selling property in Australia but also carry significant implications for Australian residents. Whether you're a buyer or a seller, understanding these new regulations is crucial to ensuring smooth and compliant property transactions. 

A Quieter Market: Your Competitive Edge

With many buyers focused on holiday festivities, December offers a quieter market. Fewer bidders mean less competition, creating a prime opportunity to secure your dream home at a great price.

The Christmas Countdown: Motivated Sellers & Buyers

The Christmas season doubles as a natural deadline for sellers eager to close deals before the year ends. Many have had their homes listed since spring and may feel the pressure to sell, particularly if they’ve purchased another property or face financial obligations.

For buyers, the new year marks a fresh start. This shared sense of urgency between parties can lead to quicker negotiations and better terms

Randwick City Council is considering an empty homes levy on properties left vacant for over a year in response to the local housing shortage. This proposal, intended to encourage owners to rent or sell idle properties, could provide essential housing near key areas, such as hospitals and universities. Significantly, the levy could generate funds for social housing projects, addressing both the immediate need for affordable housing and the city’s long-term housing goals. To move forward, the proposal requires state approval to amend the Local Government Act.

On 24 October 2024, the NSW Parliament passed the Residential Tenancies Amendment Bill 2024, marking a significant shift in the rental landscape for tenants and landlords alike. These reforms aim to enhance tenant rights and modify rental practices, which will directly impact property investors.

A major transformation is underway in Surry Hills with the launch of Wunderlich Lane, a new dining and lifestyle precinct that promises to reshape the local economy, lifestyle, and property market. This vibrant development, located in the heart of the bustling inner-city neighbourhood, is set to become a key destination for locals and visitors alike.

Sydney is buzzing with excitement over its newest transport innovation—the Sydney Metro! As the city expands its infrastructure, this super-fast train line is set to transform not just commutes but also the property market. 

At MCA Buyer’s Agency, we believe this presents a golden opportunity for homebuyers and investors alike. Here’s why.

In the past 15 months, property investors have been making bold moves, with borrowing levels rising sharply. According to the latest data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics, investor home loans have soared from $7.797 billion in March 2023 to an impressive $11.016 billion in June 2024—a 41.3% increase.

Navigating the complexities of building and pest reports can be daunting, especially for potential homeowners. With years of experience reviewing these reports, we’ve encountered a wide spectrum of buyer reactions—ranging from sheer panic to composed problem-solving.

As electric vehicles (EVs) become increasingly popular across Australia, the demand for accessible charging infrastructure is on the rise. The Randwick City Council is leading the way in the Eastern Suburbs by expanding its EV charging stations. For homebuyers, particularly those considering a move to Randwick or surrounding areas, this development presents an important factor to weigh in their decision-making process.

At MCA Buyers Agency, we are committed to keeping you informed on the latest legal changes affecting property investment and management. These reforms are a vital part of understanding the evolving landscape of real estate in NSW. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to navigate these changes together.

As Australia approaches the July 1 implementation date for the government's Stage 3 tax cuts, there's a growing discussion about what these changes mean for individuals, particularly those in the market for a new home.