Hot Property: Biggest headlines from the week that was 1

To compile this list, not only are we taking a look at the week’s most-read stories and the news that matters to you, but we are also curating it to include stories from our sister platforms that could have an impact on your investment journey.  

1.       ‘The big picture’: Analyst weighs in on property post-pandemic

Propertyology’s Simon Pressley has said that while there’s no doubt Australia “will be dealing with significant economic challenges caused by COVID-19 for several years to come”, he has taken concern with the doomsday sentiment shared by a number of commentators.

“From a property market perspective, COVID-19 is a short-term attack on household incomes,” Mr Pressley said.

2.       Which rental markets will be most affected by the fallout of COVID-19?

What rental markets are likely to struggle the most due to the pandemic? David Hancock reveals his predictions in this opinion piece.

3.       Agent retraining to ‘prosper’ post-pandemic

The retraining of real estate professionals will prosper beyond COVID-19, as agents take an interest in upskilling.

4.        REIV applauds return of on-site auctions and open inspections

Open homes and on-site auctions are back as of Wednesday, 13 May.

Both on-site auctions and open inspections will be limited to 10 people in addition to staff required to facilitate the auction or inspection.

5.       Is this a good time to be selling?

The COVID-19 pandemic has seen a sharp reduction in listings as buyers return to the market, so why could it be a good time to sell your home?

6.       ASIC delays best interests duty implementation

The corporate regulator has announced that the introduction of the best interests duty – which will require mortgage brokers to act in the best interests of their clients – will be pushed back to 2021 to allow the industry to focus on managing the COVID-19 crisis.

“All brokers remain committed to a best interests duty, and we are confident we now have the time to become legally compliant.”

7.       Royal commission implementation delayed  

The federal government has announced a six-month deferral of royal commission commitments for unlegislated commitments associated with the Royal Commission into Misconduct in the Banking, Superannuation and Financial Services Industry, as a result of the significant impacts of the coronavirus.

8.       Tax tips for property investors affected by COVID-19

While tax isn’t necessarily on people’s minds at the moment, Adam O’Grady, assistant commissioner from the ATO, has said the ATO is working hard to provide property investors with information and answers to their questions to help them understand how COVID-19 and government-legislated changes may affect their rental income and deductions.