Housing Finance Watch: A broker warns banks scrutinise “sneaky” transactions on loan applications, flagging regular gambling, buy-now-pay-later, payday loans, overdraws and undisclosed activity—especially as higher rates squeeze borrowing power. Market Mood: Spring listings are flooding in, but buyer confidence is shaky; experts point to rate-hike fears and budget tax changes pushing investors to the sidelines. Investor Pressure: A new report notes arrears are likely to rise as liquidity tightens, with Victoria and the ACT showing the highest prime arrears and NSW next. Property Deal Risks: Bathla Group’s insolvency is raising alarm across private credit, with billions owed and projects leaving buyers in limbo. Data Centres & Energy: Federal Energy Minister Chris Bowen says states won’t get blanket fossil-fuel carve-outs for data centres under new renewables rules—any exception needs a “very high bar.” Construction & Safety: Adelaide tradies found a suspected “live bomb” behind a fireplace during renovations; Defence assessed it and it was deemed an improvised mortar device with no explosive/detonation component. Strata & Insurance: An AFCA ruling denied a community-title homeowner’s fire payout after he failed to disclose the title type when taking out insurance. Home Buying Reality Check: One story highlights the “buyer’s market without buyers” problem—prices may be softer, but decision paralysis keeps demand thin.