All I want for Christmas is…?

At this time of year, with the holiday season upon us, most people breathe a welcome sigh of relief. 

Given the industry’s soaring house prices amid a dearth of listings, record-low interest rates, the changing priorities of commercial real estate, built-to-rent coups and the stock-shortage/price-hike challenges of the beleaguered construction industry — it’s been quite the rollercoaster ride.

Then, of course, there’s the ever-present regional exodus, largely motivated by the housing/consumer effects of COVID-19.

In short, 2021 has been an intense year, but ultimately punctuated by a mindset of triumphing over adversity.

So, for now, it’s time to celebrate our achievements.

The Real Estate Voice believes the festive season is custom made for family, friends, fun and reflection. With the New Year fast approaching, it’s also an ideal opportunity to develop or realise your property goals and aspirations.

All things considered; we ask a variety of real estate proponents what tops their Christmas wish list:

Adrian Kelly, Outgoing President REIA

All I want for Christmas (apart from everyone staying safe, obviously!), is for all estate agents to be able to return to work, out of lockdown and continue to enjoy what we do best; listing and selling Australian property.

Also, for those sellers who have been holding back to take advantage of the current market conditions and put their property onto the market, so that we can satisfy some of the pent-up demand being experienced and, in doing so, help to return us to a more balanced and enjoyable market.

Jen Baird, Chief Executive Officer REINZ

All I want for Christmas is a lockdown-free 2022! 

Joe White, Deputy President REIWA

Stamp duty is the biggest financial hurdle for West Australians looking to buy property — and reforming it is number one on REIWA’s wish list.

Implementing a two-stream revenue collection method that gives buyers the choice to pay the hefty tax upfront (as is currently the case), or as a smaller annual fee, would ease one of the most exorbitant cost burdens associated with homeownership and result in a productivity boost for our economy.

Leanne Pilkington, President REINSW

All I want for Christmas is to never give a COVID-19 update to REINSW members, ever again!

Peter Aloupis, CEO and Licensee Green Street Property

All I want for Christmas this year is for COVID restrictions to end and stop limiting our community from being able to do what they do best. I would love to see all the small businesses in our region get back on their feet and reconnect with the community that we value so strongly. We will remain positive despite the uncertainty, but that would be the best Christmas gift anyone could receive this year!

Samantha Reece, Director of Australian Apartment Advocacy

All I want for Christmas is … zero apartment building defects!

Sadhana Smiles, President Real Estate Industry Partners

I think for all of us, right now, all I want for Christmas is to be able to have time with my family; hug them and celebrate having spent so much of the year apart. 

We couldn’t have put it better ourselves. The Real Estate Voice thanks you for your continued custom and wishes everyone a safe, happy and healthy festive season.

Here’s to ensuring that 2022 is another exciting year in real estate.