Edition 15 - 2 November 2026
This Week…
How are Australian borrowers handling higher interest rates?
Don't automatically accept your bank's first offer
Property potential in Traralgon
Suburb Spotlight in Traralgon
Mortgage News
How are Australian borrowers handling higher interest rates?
The Reserve Bank of Australia’s latest Financial Stability Review found that most Australian mortgage holders remain in a relatively strong position to manage higher interest rates and cost of living pressures, despite some households experiencing financial stress.
The RBA reported that fewer than 2% of variable rate owner occupier borrowers were experiencing a cash flow shortfall, where their income wasn't enough to cover scheduled mortgage repayments and essential living expenses. Most borrowers also have savings in offset or redraw accounts that can provide a financial buffer when times get tougher.
However, that doesn't mean every household is doing it easy. Higher repayments and everyday expenses continue to put pressure on some borrowers, making it increasingly important to understand where your money is going and how your home loan is structured.
What does this mean for you?
Having a competitive interest rate is important, but so is having the right loan structure, a manageable budget and access to savings when unexpected expenses arise.
An offset account, for example, can help reduce the interest charged on your home loan while keeping your savings accessible.
If your circumstances have changed or your repayments are becoming harder to manage, reviewing your options early may help you identify ways to improve your position before the pressure builds.
Get in touch with Redlend Home Loans to discuss your options.
Mortgage Tip
Don't automatically accept your bank's first offer
Whether you're buying your first home or have had your mortgage for years, remember that the first rate a lender offers you isn't necessarily their best one.
Banks can have different pricing options depending on your loan size, deposit or equity, income and overall lending position.
Before accepting a home loan offer, or simply staying with your current lender, consider:
Negotiate your rate: Ask your lender whether they can offer you a sharper deal.
Compare the full package: Look at fees, offset facilities and loan features, not just the headline interest rate.
Review your options: Another lender may offer a better deal, but make sure the costs and benefits of switching stack up.
Even a small difference in your interest rate can add up over the life of a loan. Loyalty doesn't always mean you're getting the best deal, so it pays to know what else is available.
At Redlend, that's where we come in.
We work to secure a competitive rate for you from the outset, but our job doesn't stop once your loan settles.
Every six months, we review your loan and compare it against what's available across our lender panel. If your rate is no longer competitive, we'll approach your lender on your behalf and see if we can get you a better deal.
Because getting you a good home loan is one thing. Making sure it stays competitive is just as important.
Property Spotlight
Traralgon - Victoria
A renovated home with room to enjoy
If you're looking for an affordable home in regional Victoria, this renovated three bedroom property in Traralgon is worth a look.
Located at 3 Maskrey Street, Traralgon, this property combines modern updates with a practical layout and plenty of outdoor space.
Set on approximately 559m², the home features three bedrooms with built in robes, a refreshed interior, updated flooring and a split system air conditioner in each bedroom, as well as the main living area.
One of the standout features is the large undercover north facing entertaining deck, overlooking a fully fenced backyard. There's also a detached workshop, additional storage and off street parking.
With local schools, sporting reserves and parklands nearby, and Traralgon CBD only a short drive away, it offers a convenient lifestyle for first home buyers, couples or young families.
Price guide: $495,000 – $535,000
For buyers considering a move into the regional property market, it's a good reminder that there can still be opportunities to secure a renovated home without stretching into metropolitan Melbourne price ranges.
Thinking about buying? Before you start attending inspections, it's worth understanding your borrowing capacity, deposit requirements and what your repayments might look like. If you need a hand working through the finance side, I'm always happy to help.
Here is what the numbers could look like…
Approximate numbers for general information only, this is not financial advice and individual circumstances will vary. Lets assume we a a first home buyer, eligible for the 5% deposit scheme and Victorian Government stamp duty concessions.
Assume a Sale @ $535,000
A Deposit @ 5% = $26,750
Stamp Duty & Government Fees @ $1487
Conveyancing & Building Pest Inspection @ $3000
Savings or equity Required $31,237
Monthly Repayments @ $3213
Based on 6.5% Interest Rate, 30 years, Principal & Interest
Suburb Spotlight
Traralgon
Located approximately 144km from Melbourne's CBD, Traralgon continues to be an important regional centre in Gippsland, offering a mix of established homes, family friendly neighbourhoods and more affordable property options compared with metropolitan Melbourne.
According to the latest Cotality suburb profile (October 2026), Traralgon has a population of approximately 26,900, representing 7.9% population growth between 2016 and 2021. Around 71% of homes are owner occupied, with the average homeowner having held their property for approximately 11 years.
The median house value sits at approximately $651,571, with the median sale price over the past 12 months recorded at $575,000. House prices range from around $495,000 at the lower quartile to $655,000 at the upper quartile.
For units, the median value is approximately $397,862, with a median sale price of $367,000 over the past 12 months.
Traralgon also offers opportunities for property investors, with a range of rental properties across the suburb. Recent rental listings include:
Two bedroom houses advertised around $440–$480 per week.
Three bedroom houses around $520–$550 per week.
Four bedroom houses around $520–$620 per week.
With a growing population, an established regional community and a range of property options, Traralgon remains an interesting market for both home buyers and investors looking beyond metropolitan Melbourne.
Whether you're considering buying your first home, upgrading or investing in regional Victoria, understanding the local property market is an important part of making an informed decision.
Property data supplied by Cotality. Figures current as at 01 November 2026 and provided for general information only, not personal financial or property advice. If you would like your own free property report, please email me below.
Request a Free Property Report
Lets Talk Property
Whether you're buying your first home, refinancing, investing or just looking for some guidance, I'm always happy to have a conversation.
No pressure. No obligation. Just honest advice to help you make informed property decisions.
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