A steadier spring with selective heat.
Buyer depth is improving into spring, though results are mixed by city. A gentler rate environment and tight listings are supporting values, while build approvals remain soft, pointing to ongoing supply pressure.
Market snapshot (this week):
Cash rate: The RBA cut the cash rate to 3.60% on 12 Aug (third cut this year), noting inflation is easing toward target.
Home values: National prices have been clocking ~0.6% monthly gains through mid-winter, consistent with recent updates.
Auctions (week ending 21 Sep): Preliminary clearance rates show VIC 72%, NSW 65%, SA 88%, ACT 78%, QLD 51% (prelim and subject to revision).
Construction pipeline: July building approvals fell 8.2% m/m (apartments -22.3%, houses +1.1%), underscoring future supply constraints.
Policy watch: Accessibility rules in the National Construction Code are phasing in, with Tasmania proceeding from 1 Oct, prompting industry commentary on costs and timelines.
What this means for sellers
Quality, move-in-ready homes are seeing the strongest competition; days-on-market remain shortest in Adelaide and Brisbane segments, while lifestyle/coastal pockets are more varied.
With depth improving, presenting perfectly and pricing precisely is key; strong clearance pockets suggest auctions remain effective in Melbourne, Sydney and Adelaide this spring.
What this means for buyers
Borrowing capacity has nudged higher after the RBA’s easing cycle; first-home demand is being supported by the expanded Home Guarantee pathways. Have finance pre-approval ready for on-the-day bidding.
Lunar takeaway
Spring is balanced but brisk in the right segments. If you’re considering a move, a well-timed campaign before late-October’s listing wave can help you capture current buyer depth while competition among sellers is still measured. We’ll tailor a suburb-level plan for you.
Need a suburb-level read?
