The RBA Governor, Philip Lowe, gave a pretty clear interview on ABC-TV’s 7.30 Report during the week where he spelled out the case for higher interest rates by the end of this year. Whilst this might be good news for some, for others – particularly younger home owners with significant mortgages – it may well be a worry.
The good news is that there has been a strong and immediate Government response to the issue of soaring inflation, and to the energy crises. In the face of all this activity – you too might be inspired to get active – and put solar panels in at your home. Experts agree that many Australian houses are not built for cold snaps like the one we are currently experiencing.
If your house can’t withstand temperatures below 18 degrees, when these snaps occur, you’re going to be shivering! There are things that you can do to address this though: Install proper insulation; Draft-proof around windows and doors; Have solar panels and a battery installed, and get them working in sync with an efficient reverse cycle air-con system…and you’ll be snug as a bug. “But how do I do this properly and cost effectively?” I hear you roar…I don’t know either! But I’m also keen to learn. In next week’s edition of Shores Weekly we’ll announce the date and details of our “How to do Alternative Energy” info night;
If you missed the 7.30 Report story, here it is:
A bit of good news on the ‘hospitality’ front…Firstly, after the sad closure of Alfonso’s in Elvina Ave, the cafe space there has now been leased to Classic Coffee. Yes, that is the van on the headland! So they’ll have a permanent presence and Elvina Ave will have a cafe again! Hooray!
And also…Council have ended the existing tenancy on the cafe and bar at the Avalon Surf Club, held by an out-of-area operator who (we think) has never really done that spectacular space, justice. They will be re-tendering in July.
If you’ve seen the wonderful redevelopment that has taken place at Mona Vale Surf Club – with Newport favorite “Lovatt” rumored to be taking over the catering there – you’ll feel optimistic and inspired…It’d be great to see a new, enthused, local, operator in there in time for summer…? And potentially a great new venue for locals and visitors alike.
On housing, the State Government is again flirting with ending Stamp Duty. Or, more specifically, replacing the lump sum that is such a burden-hurdle to buyers, with an annual land tax. Is this good news? It sounds like it, doesn’t it? Easier to buy, less to save…But it then becomes another ongoing bill. And whilst it increases affordability instantly is that really a good thing? it’ll likely result in first home buyers propping up the market short term. Opinion is certainly divided; more clarity please!
There’s local concern about another proposed redevelopment in Palm Beach. In addition to the upset caused by the plans for the site next door to Barrenjoey House, this site, down the road nearer Avalon, also appears to breach height restrictions, and has been knocked back by Council. If you feel strongly about wanton over-development, read on…
At the end of the day it’s all about location, location, location!
We’ve got a couple of ripper locations for you to view tomorrow.
Scroll down for details…