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Forge Real Estate Insights

Stay informed with the latest real estate news, market trends, and expert insights for Melbourne City. Our blog covers everything you need to know about the property market in Australia.


Negative Gearing, CGT Changes and Grandfathering: Should Melbourne Investors Sell Now or Hold On?

Negative Gearing, CGT Changes and Grandfathering: Should Melbourne Investors Sell Now or Hold On?

Melbourne investors are asking whether negative gearing and CGT changes mean they should sell now or hold. This guide explains the 2026–27 Federal Budget rules, how grandfathering and indexation work, and why decisions should be based on cashflow, land tax, loan structure and property quality rather than headline-driven panic.

Melbourne Property Market 2026: Which Suburbs Are Still Rising While the Rest of the Market Softens?

Melbourne Property Market 2026: Which Suburbs Are Still Rising While the Rest of the Market Softens?

Melbourne’s 2026 property market isn’t falling evenly. While some townhouse and prestige segments soften, affordable suburbs such as Seaford, Heidelberg, Fairfield and Melton continue to show demand. This article unpacks which micro-markets are still rising, where conditions favour buyers, and how to navigate a divided market.

Melbourne Apartments in 2026: Crash Coming or Rare Buying Window for First-Home Buyers?

Melbourne Apartments in 2026: Crash Coming or Rare Buying Window for First-Home Buyers?

Melbourne’s apartment market in 2026 isn’t a simple crash story. High-rise investor towers face more risk, while older low-rise units in walkable suburbs can still offer solid value. This guide explains which buildings to avoid, how to read owners corporation records, and what first-home buyers should check before committing.

Why Are More Melbourne Properties Selling Off-Market in 2026 — and How Can Everyday Buyers Still Find Them?

Why Are More Melbourne Properties Selling Off-Market in 2026 — and How Can Everyday Buyers Still Find Them?

Forge Real Estate delivers personalised property sales and management services across Melbourne. Our experienced team combines local market insight with strategic marketing to maximise your result. Whether you are selling, leasing, or investing, we provide honest advice, clear communication, and end‑to‑end support to help you achieve your property goals.

What Quietly Kills Your Melbourne Sale Price: 7 Small Things Buyers Notice at Open Homes

What Quietly Kills Your Melbourne Sale Price: 7 Small Things Buyers Notice at Open Homes

Buyers judge your Melbourne home the moment they walk in. Subtle issues like odour, mess, DIY fixes and poor presentation quietly erode confidence and sale price. Learn the seven small details buyers always notice at open homes—and how a simple pre-listing audit can protect your result.

Melbourne Price Drops: How to Tell a Real Discount From 'Was/Now' Marketing

Melbourne Price Drops: How to Tell a Real Discount From 'Was/Now' Marketing

Many Melbourne homes are relisted at lower prices, but not every discount is real. This guide explains why properties get price drops, how Victorian underquoting rules work, and how to use comparable sales and days on market data to spot genuine bargains.Many Melbourne homes are relisted at lower prices, but not every discount is real. This guide explains why properties get price drops, how Victorian underquoting rules work, and how to use comparable sales and days on market data to spot genuine bargains.

Is That Melbourne Property Actually in Your Budget, or Is the Listing Price a Trap?

Is That Melbourne Property Actually in Your Budget, or Is the Listing Price a Trap?

In Melbourne, the price you see on property portals often isn’t the price you need to win. Underquoting laws, auction dynamics and vague labels like “Contact Agent” or “Expressions of Interest” can mislead buyers. This guide explains how portal prices are set, common traps, and how to budget realistically.

Are Off-the-Plan Stamp Duty Concessions in Melbourne Worth It in 2026?

Are Off-the-Plan Stamp Duty Concessions in Melbourne Worth It in 2026?

Victoria’s off-the-plan stamp duty concession, extended to October 2026, can save Melbourne buyers tens of thousands of dollars on new apartments and townhouses under $1 million. We explain how the concession works, who actually benefits, real examples comparing off‑the‑plan vs established units, and key risks like sunset clauses and valuation shortfalls.

How Will RBA Rate Hikes in 2026 Affect Melbourne Property Prices for Buyers, Sellers and Investors?

How Will RBA Rate Hikes in 2026 Affect Melbourne Property Prices for Buyers, Sellers and Investors?

Melbourne’s property market reacts differently to RBA rate hikes. Higher interest rates reduce borrowing power, soften auction competition and increase mortgage stress, especially in outer growth suburbs. This article explains how 2026 cash rate rises may impact buyers, sellers and investors across Melbourne, with practical tips on timing, suburbs and risk management.


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