Why the 'Rate Pause' is Your Signal to Check Your Cash Flow
The RBA has held rates at 3.60%, but inflation is rising. Discover what this means for your Rockhampton property and why you need a Cash Flow Forecast now.
It’s the news everyone in Rockhampton has been waiting for. Following their latest meeting, the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has decided to keep the cash rate on hold at 3.60%.
While this steady approach brings a collective sigh of relief to homeowners and investors across Queensland, the underlying data tells a more complex story. With inflation ticking up to 3.2% in September 2025 and the unemployment rate shifting to 4.5%, the economy is sending mixed signals.
At Realty One, we believe this "wait-and-see" phase from the RBA isn't just a pause - it’s an opportunity. It is the perfect window for you to take control of your financial foundation, specifically your Cash Flow Forecast.
Here is what the latest update means for the Rockhampton market and why understanding your cash flow is more critical now than ever.
The Macro View: What the RBA Decision Means
By holding the rate at 3.60%, the RBA is signaling caution. They are waiting to see how previous hikes impact households and businesses before making another move.
However, "steady" does not mean "easy."
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Inflation is sticky: Prices are rising faster than they were in June.
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Jobs market cooling: A slight rise in unemployment suggests the market is tightening.
For you, this means the cost of living and holding property remains high, even if interest rates haven't jumped again. This is exactly why relying on guesswork for your property finances is no longer an option.
Why Cash Flow Forecasting (CFF) is Your Safety Net
In a shifting economy, cash flow is the heartbeat of every smart real estate decision. Whether you are managing an investment portfolio in Frenchville or paying off a family home in The Range, a reliable Cash Flow Forecast (CFF) gives you clarity.
Many people think CFF is just for businesses. In 2025, it’s for every homeowner. A solid forecast reveals:
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The Reality of Your Returns: For investors, rising maintenance costs or potential vacancies can eat into profits. Forecasting helps you anticipate these costs so you aren't caught off guard.
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The "Refinance" Window: With rates holding steady, now is the time to calculate if restructuring your debt or refinancing could free up monthly cash. A forecast tells you clearly: Will switching lenders actually save me money?
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Buying Power: Thinking of upgrading? Know exactly when you can comfortably buy - before the perfect property slips away.
Strategic Moves You Can Make Right Now
Don't wait for the RBA to move again. Use this period of stability to:
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Review Your Home Loan: Are you still on a competitive rate? Banks often offer better deals to new customers. Let's make sure your loyalty isn't costing you money.
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Audit Your Expenses: If you own investment properties, check your maintenance schedule. Preventive maintenance is always cheaper than emergency repairs.
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Plan for 2026: If rates do rise again to combat that 3.2% inflation, will your current budget survive? Stress-test your finances now.
Let’s Look at the Numbers Together
Real estate isn't just about buying and selling; it's about financial strategy. At Realty One, we want to ensure your property goals align with your financial reality.
If you are feeling uncertain about the market or want to discuss how the RBA’s decision impacts your specific situation, let's have a chat. We can help you look at your options, from refinancing to portfolio management, ensuring you step into 2026 with confidence.
Need a second opinion on your property strategy?
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