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Sarah M. ·

After the September rate rise, what buffer are you holding?

With the Reserve Bank raising again and warning there could be more (theguardian.com/business/2026/sep/29/rba-interest-rate-an...), I'm rethinking my buffer. I hold six months of all repayments in offset. Is that enough with two properties?
theguardian.comRBA interest rates: Reserve Bank raises cash rate to highest level in 15 years and warns of more hikes ‘if needed’Michele Bullock says board knows decision will hit some people hard but hopefully in the next few years ‘this will all have been worth it’
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6 replies

  1. Ahmed H. ·

    Six months is solid. I also keep a separate amount for one big repair per property per year.

  2. Kev P. ·

    If a small rate rise breaks your budget you shouldn't be investing. Simple as that.

  3. Mei L. ·

    It's a reasonable question to ask, Kev. Buffers are how people avoid selling at the wrong time.
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  4. Priya S. ·

    We moved from three months to six after the last rise. The peace of mind is worth the slower savings.

  5. James O. ·

    Also check when any fixed rates roll off. That's where the shock usually comes from.
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  6. Sarah M. ·

    Good point James, one of mine rolls off in March. Starting to plan for it now.
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