The recap of this weeks mortgage, home loan and housing news in Australia.

The top stories for the week ending 18/11/07:

December Rate Rise unlikely
News.com.au
Scott Murdoch reports on recent economic data suggesting that the RBA is unlikely to rise interest rates in December. There is also coverage here Chance of December interest rate rise slips at the Geelong Advertiser reporting similar indicating the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) is less likely to raise interest rates next month after the release yesterday of new figures showing wages growth remains relatively well contained. Australian Business Economists executive committee are tipping that interest rates will peak at 7.25 per cent towards the end of 2008.

Reserve Bank - Statement on Monetary Policy [PDF]
RBA
The Reserve Bank of Australia has released their detailed statement on monetary policy - an excerpt: “Looking further ahead, and taking into account the recent monetary policy decisions along with other factors such as the higher exchange rate and the expected moderation in global demand, the Bank projects that inflation will settle at a rate a little below 3 per cent over the next two years. Somewhat lower outcomes could eventuate if global economic conditions prove to be weaker than expected, which might occur if there were further significant disturbances in global financial markets. But it is also possible at this stage of a long economic expansion that inflation will be more difficult to contain, particularly if domestic demand does not moderate.”

RBA injects net $1bn to calm markets
The Australian
James Glynn provides coverage on the RBA’s 1.71 billion dollar injection into the financial markets to offset a financial market deficit and calm renewed jitters from instability in the US. With a tightening in credit conditions and shaky ground in the US markets, economists are now predicting the RBA may look to put interest rate rises on hold.

No need to jump ship
Courier Mail
Noel Whittaker shares his thoughts on homeowners considering selling their house and moving into a rented property and buying back when the house prices drop. As pointed out in the article many are considering this action in light of the overseas market news and reactions.

Do homework for best loan
News.com.au
Nhada Larkin has produced a brief article on finding the best home loan for your needs.