Tell us: what are your experiences of buying a home in Australia?

Australia is currently grappling with a housing crisis characterized by one of the world's most unaffordable property markets. Over the past 25 years, the presence of investors in the housing sector has steadily increased, leading to a competitive landscape that often sidelines potential owner-occupiers, particularly younger buyers. This trend is exacerbated by the growing demand for limited housing stock, especially in desirable locations that offer proximity to schools and public transport. The rising property prices have created a sense of urgency, as many prospective homebuyers find themselves outbid by investors who are often better positioned financially to secure properties. The situation raises concerns about the long-term implications for homeownership and community stability in Australia, as the dream of owning a home slips further away for many individuals and families.

In light of these challenges, the media outlet is reaching out to the public to gather personal accounts of individuals' experiences in the home-buying process. They are particularly interested in understanding the duration of the search for a property, any significant obstacles encountered, such as near misses or instances of being outbid, and the nature of competition faced—whether it stemmed from other buyers or investors. The outlet requests detailed responses, including the specific suburb and city of interest, to paint a clearer picture of the current housing landscape. This outreach aims to shed light on the personal stories behind the statistics, highlighting the emotional and financial toll that the housing market's dynamics are having on aspiring homeowners across Australia.