Let’s be real for a second. The Australian property market is not exactly rolling out the red carpet for buyers right now.
Low stock. Rising prices. Fierce competition. It’s giving “Hunger Games but make it real estate.”
But here’s the thing, while buyers are doing it tough, there’s actually some unexpected good news for people who already own property. So whether you’re hunting for your first home, your next home, or just want to know what your current place is worth these days, let’s break it all down.
The Numbers – What’s Actually Happening Out There
According to CoreLogic, Australia’s median property price rose 1.0% in November and 3.1% over the quarter. Not dramatic, but definitely still climbing.
And here’s where it gets spicy:
- Listings fell 5.4% month-on-month
- New listings dropped 11.3%
Translation? Fewer homes are hitting the market, which means more buyers fighting over less stock. It’s supply and demand doing what it does best, making things harder for anyone trying to buy.
This isn’t just an Australian quirk, either. Globally, markets with tight supply (like the Northeast and Midwest in the US) are seeing continued upward price pressure, while regions with more inventory are giving buyers a bit more breathing room. Here in Australia, we’re firmly in “tight supply” territory in most capital cities.
What Does “Competing Hard” Actually Mean?
You’ve probably heard phrases like “you need to come in strong” or “be ready to compete” thrown around. But what does that actually look like in practice?
It means things like:
- Offering a higher price than you originally planned (ouch)
- Better terms that make your offer more attractive, think faster settlement, being a cash buyer, or (gulp) no finance clause
- Moving fast when you find something you love, because hesitation can cost you the property
None of this is particularly fun. But it’s the reality of buying in a tight market.
So how do you put yourself in a position to compete? Well, having your finance sorted before you start seriously looking is a massive advantage. Sellers love certainty, and a buyer with pre-approval is a lot more appealing than one who still needs to figure out if the bank will say yes.
Turns out, we know some people who can help with that. (It’s us. We’re the people.)
👉 Book in here to chat with one of our brokers
If You’re Buying – Here’s How to Set Yourself Up
Look, we’re not going to sugarcoat it, buying right now requires strategy, patience, and a bit of grit. But it’s absolutely doable. Here’s what to focus on:
1. Expect More Competition
Fewer listings mean faster sales. Properties aren’t sitting around waiting for you to “think about it over the weekend.” If you see something you love, you need to be ready to move.
2. Pre-Approval Is Your Secret Weapon
Sellers often choose buyers who have their finance in place. Why? Because it removes uncertainty. A pre-approved buyer is a serious buyer, and in a competitive market, that can be the difference between getting the property and missing out.
Not sure how much you can borrow? Start here:
👉 Check out our Borrowing Power Calculator
3. Get Clear on Your Budget and Non-Negotiables
This one’s important. When you’re in the thick of inspections and auctions, emotions run high. It’s easy to get swept up and either:
- Pay way too much for something that doesn’t quite fit, or
- Settle for a house you don’t actually love (and then resent every time you walk through the front door)
Knowing your absolute max budget and your must-haves helps you make decisions from a place of clarity, not panic.
If You’re a Homeowner – Time to Get Excited
Okay, so buyers are doing it tough. But if you already own property? There’s actually some pretty great news hiding in those rising prices.
Your Property Value Has Probably Gone Up
If the market’s climbing, chances are your home is worth more than it was six months ago. And that means one very useful thing: you’ve got more equity.
Equity Can Be Used for… A Lot of Stuff
Here’s where it gets fun. Equity isn’t just a number on a page, it’s money you can actually use. Things like:
- Renovating your current place (finally fix that bathroom that’s been annoying you since 2019)
- Upsizing to a bigger home
- Buying an investment property and building your portfolio
- Buying a car (yes, really)
- Paying for a wedding or honeymoon (equity-funded Bali trip, anyone?)
- Paying off personal debts like credit cards or personal loans
- Building a share portfolio if you’re feeling all Warren Buffett about it
- Paying for the kids’ education… or, you know, leaving them in public school and going on a MAD business class holiday instead. We don’t judge.
The point is, equity gives you options. And options are good.
A Quick Equity Check Helps You Plan
You might be sitting on more usable equity than you realise. A quick chat with us can show you exactly what’s possible, whether that’s a sensible investment move or something slightly more impulsive (like that jacuzzi you’ve been eyeing).
If the idea of a business class holiday tickles your fancy and you’d like to understand how this works, get in touch with us. We’ll let you know how much usable equity you’ve got, so you can decide if it’s jacuzzi time or share portfolio time.
(No wrong answers here. Okay, maybe some wrong answers. But we’ll help you figure it out.)
Related topic: What are the pros and cons of equity release?
The Bottom Line
The property market in 2026 is a bit of a mixed bag. If you’re buying, it’s tough, but not impossible. Getting your finance sorted early, understanding your limits, and being ready to act fast can give you a serious edge.
And if you already own? Now’s a great time to check in on your equity and see what doors it might open. Whether that’s growing your wealth, paying down debt, or treating yourself to something special, the options are there.
Either way, we’re here to help you make sense of it all.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
For buyers: Get pre-approved and know exactly what you’re working with.
👉 Check your borrowing power here
For homeowners: Find out how much equity you’ve got and what you could do with it.
👉 Book a quick chat with our team
No pressure, no jargon, just real answers. Let’s make 2026 the year you get ahead.
Disclaimer: This article contains general information only and does not constitute financial advice. Your personal circumstances are unique, so please chat with a qualified professional (like us!) before making any decisions about your finances or property.