Calls for expansion of Qld homebuyer grant

Queensland Treasurer Curtis Pitt is being urged to expand the state's first-home buyer grants to include established homes to help the recovery of regional markets.

The Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ) has gained the support of 11 regional mayors who have signed a letter to Mr Pitt saying the expansion of the grant would help stimulate real estate sales and boost their local economies.

"The economy in regional and central Queensland has drastically slowed due to the mining downturn and the property market, which is directly tied to jobs, has also slumped," REIQ CEO Antonia Mercorella said.