I'll walk the talk to get the job done

Communes: Hippie havens or happy housing?

Once the preserve of 1970s hippies, communes are touted by some as an answer for modern house-hunters. But are they a practical alternative? AC investigates the pros and cons of tribal life.

Minister takes up the fight to bring housing back within reach

EXCLUSIVE: As part of an election pledge, the federal government set a target of 1.2 million homes to be built within five years to help ease a critical shortage of supply. Critics have called it unrealistic, but Clare O’Neil, the minister overseeing the plan, is staring them down and vows to walk the talk – backing large-scale development, even in her own well-to-do neighbourhood.

Rent or buy: First Home grants schemes: Time to the do the math

October 1 saw an early start to the federal government’s expanded offer of 5 per cent deposits for first-home buyers. Under the changes, all first-home buyers have access, with no caps on places or income limits. And, they won’t have to pay Lenders Mortgage Insurance. So, is the Australian Dream now much more affordable? AC crunches the numbers.

Housing crisis: The people fighting the good fight

The national goals to ease the pain of housing are well-intended, but is it moving fast enough? Settle Easy’s Sam Almaliki, who is on a personal mission to get young people and families into the market, says there’s a lot more to be done.

Under-cooked: Why we need to tackle the skill chill

There’s a huge demand for new recruits in conveyancing but sector leaders contend the entry-level diplomas inadequately prepare them for the responsibilities that come with the heavily regulated profession. It’s time to toughen up.

How to get a foot in the crowded housing market

Cracking the property market has become increasingly difficult for individuals and couples. An entrepreneur and venture capitalist is bringing the housing stakes within reach of thousands in a crowdfunding scheme.

Inquiry: ARNECC needs money or power to act

eConveyancing regulator ARNECC comes under the spotlight as Senate committee hears how a lack of enforcement power and scant resourcing has delayed competition in the $330 million market.

Disclosure overhaul brings teething problems for Queensland practitioners

The rollout of new seller disclosure laws In Queensland is causing headaches for both buyers and sellers of property. Industry insiders share their insights.

Why is it so important to reflect and give back?