I always find Robert Gottliebsen's articles of interest (see Outer suburbs wedded to value, March 25) and this is probably because in many respects I can identify with his age, financial position and experience. However, a reason why property prices may still go up as outlined in today's Australian is due to continuing high immigration. He doesn't mention this in his interesting article. Also, the dilemma of the younger generation being able to afford housing he explains well, but some, including myself, took the gifting road rather than buy housing for rent to family. In my case, children and their family wanted to live in Melbourne inner suburbs and gifting enough to get substantially over the deposit threshold was the best alternative. I didn't want to be in a "landlord" and "banking lender" position with my own children. This way they have responsibility for their own loan finances and responsibility as home owners in terms of investment, maintenance, improvements, value for money etc.
David
