🏡 Property & Finance Weekly Brief – 12 September 2025
1. Connective Home Loans Sees 18% Growth in Settlements
Connective Home Loans (CHL), the white label lending division of aggregator Connective, recorded a $2.6 billion settlement volume in the first half of 2025 — an 18% year-on-year increase. Applications rose by 27% to $4.2 billion, though the conversion rate slightly dipped due to tighter lending conditions.
2. Criticism Grows Over New 5% Deposit Scheme for First Home Buyers
The federal government’s plan to allow all first home buyers to purchase with just a 5% deposit from October 2025 has sparked controversy. Former ATO director Nitin Saby warned it may push young Australians into decades of debt, saying, “We’ve lost the plot.”
3. New Zealand Eases Golden Visa Rules Amid Push for Growth
New Zealand is set to relax property purchase restrictions for golden visa holders, aiming to attract high-net-worth individuals and fill immigration gaps. Unlike most countries, NZ’s digital nomad visa has no minimum income requirement, broadening access for remote workers.
4. $10B Real Estate Fund Dispute Between Lendlease and Mirvac
A major real estate battle is heating up. Lendlease, long-time manager of the $10 billion Australian Prime Property Fund (APPF), is accused of attempting to derail a pivotal vote. Super fund advisors claim the clash highlights deep governance tensions within Australia’s commercial property sector.
🏠 Opportunities for Homebuyers and Investors
The transformation of Riverstone presents significant opportunities: Speed Lending
- Homebuyers can explore a range of housing options in a revitalized community.
- Investors may benefit from increased demand for rental properties and potential capital growth.
- Businesses can tap into a growing local economy with enhanced infrastructure.
💼 How Speed Lending Can Assist You
At Speed Lending, we specialize in providing tailored mortgage solutions to help you navigate the evolving property landscape in Riverstone. Here’s how we can assist:
✅ Home Loan Pre-Approval
Secure pre-approval to confidently explore new properties in the Riverstone area.speedlending.com.au
✅ Upgrade Financing
Looking to upgrade your current home? We can help you access equity or structure a bridging loan to facilitate the transition.
✅ Investment Strategies
Develop a financing strategy that aligns with your investment goals in the growing Riverstone market.
✅ First Home Buyer Assistance
Take advantage of government grants and low-deposit options available for first-time buyers in the area.
📞 Ready to Explore Your Options?
The Riverstone Town Centre is evolving, and so are the opportunities. Whether you’re looking to buy, invest, or refinance, Speed Lending is here to guide you through the process.
Contact us today to discuss how we can help you achieve your property goals in Riverstone’s exciting new chapter.
Servicing clients across Sydney and beyond
First time buying home?
We can help you start your property journey. We’ll work with you on getting the right home loan for your situation.
