Housing Shortage hitting Australia

[Brendan]

Just found this article - Housing shortage as population soars | NEWS.com.au (http://www.news.com.au/business/money/story/0,25479,23854083-5013951,00.html)

Its quite short and sweet, but I think it is an interesting discussion, how do we think the shortage of housing is going to affect property investors and developers?

We are already seeing house prices start to fall due to higher costs of living, which means people aren't buying.. but now we are being told there is a housing shortage.. which ideally would push prices up.

So, how can we benefit from it? Is it a time we should start buying as there will be bargains to be had?

[arinjacob]

Australia is facing a property shortage crisis due to population growth and ineffectual government policies, experts have warned to real estate property investors. due to the over populated migrating people this country face the problem of housing shortage.

[Dunworking]

There are so many things to consider here but in answer to your original question, the best time to purchase property is when prices are at their lowest. The property market is a funny old thing. It moves in circles, but those circles are usually ascending. When the bottom falls out of the market, houses never go back to their lowest value. When the market is strong, house prices usually exceed their previous levels.

A bit controversial now, but housing shortages might not make the market stronger. You have to consider many things and part of the reason people can't find property today is because they can't afford it. If you invest yourself, you will want to sell for the highest price. Those who can't afford the highest price won't be looking to buy. Today, it's arguably better to rent property out and make your money gradually instead of looking for the fast 'purchase and sell' opportunities of the past. As long as you are patient, you will always recoup your money. In the meantime, there's a steady stream of income to be enjoyed.

[The King Game]

King says market will go lower over next 12-24 months.

The Australian housing market has been too strong for too long.