Record low-interest rates have driven up home prices across the country by 22% last year, the sharpest rise in 3 decades. Prices rose on average by 1% in December with the median price now $709,803. The data, compiled by research firm CoreLogic, show prices rising at a slower pace each month while becoming increasingly unaffordable for first-home buyers. The results showed Brisbane and Adelaide with the biggest jumps on the back of strong demand and lower supply, while Sydney, Melbourne and Perth grew slightly slower. But prices in Sydney remain eyewatering across the city after homes increased in value by about $1,000 a day in 2021. Try not to choke on your avo toast… And while it’s relatively good news for those already in the market, things are looking a bit better for those hoping to crack the market with home prices set to plateau or fall a little this year.