The spring property market in Australia remains characterised by very low supply, despite an increase in buyer activity. In February, three consecutive RBA rate cuts have, since then, increased borrowing capacity by around 7%. More recently, the new deposit scheme, which allows first home buyers to purchase with only a 5% deposit, has pulled more first home buyers into the market. Auction clearance rates remain above 70% in Sydney and Melbourne, signalling that demand for well-presented properties has increased competition even in what’s considered a buyers’ market.
Listings by City
The latest REA Group data shows a mixed picture across capital cities:
- Perth: listings down 24% year-on-year
- Brisbane: listings down 11% year-on-year
- Hobart: listings down 13% year-on-year
- Sydney: listings up 6% year-on-year
- Melbourne: listings up 2% year-on-year
- National listings: down 3% year-on-year
The figures indicate that although Sydney and Melbourne are experiencing a gradual lift in new listings, markets such as Perth and Brisbane remain significantly supply-constrained. Hobart continues to show fewer available homes than at the same time last year, contributing to sustained competition across several regions.
What does this mean for buyers?
Timing and strategy are crucial. Spring is traditionally busy, so consider acting early. For example, mid-December often sees fewer active buyers (many buyers step away for the holidays), creating a brief “buyer’s window” before Christmas.
Top Spring Buying Tips You Cannot Ignore at Any Cost
- Get finance ready: Secure pre-approval early. As one report notes, there’s only a narrow window at current rates before prices run up. A buyer’s agent can help you navigate the lending process so you’re ready to bid.
- Use government schemes: If you’re a first-timer, take advantage of the new 5% deposit guarantee. It lowers upfront costs and makes your offer more competitive. Just be aware that this scheme has crowded the bottom end of the market, so lock in your pre-approval first.
- Tap off‑market deals: With stock tight, some of the best opportunities won’t be publicly listed. We scour our agent networks for off-market and private listings, which avoids the usual bidding frenzy. Getting exclusive access can be a real edge when inventory is low.
- Sweeten the offer: Besides price, consider non-price terms to appeal to sellers. For example, offering flexible settlement (shortening or lengthening the settlement period to suit the seller) can make your bid stand out. Experienced buyer’s agents use tactics like this all the time (along with minimal conditions) to negotiate better deals.
- Read seller motivations: Building rapport with the seller’s agent can reveal what a vendor really wants. If the seller needs a quick move, that might let you negotiate a small discount or more favourable terms. We use these insights constantly – it’s how we protect you from overpaying and FOMO.
Timing your move: Remember that spring means more competition, but there are still windows of opportunity. Winter has historically been a good time for buyers (fewer bidders). In spring 2025, consider whether late November/early December buying makes sense for you, or if you should capitalise on any winter lull. Key2Dreamz can help evaluate suburb-by-suburb trends (see our blog for region-specific insights).
In a market this tight, professional help pays off. Our Buyer’s Agent team at Key2Dreamz combines local market data with expert negotiation strategies to help you secure the best deal (see our service overview on the Residential Buyer’s Agent page). We focus on up-and-coming suburbs with improving supply and strong fundamentals, making sure you’re not fighting only in overheated areas.Thinking of buying this spring? Call us on +61 439 260 917 or book a free consultation to discuss your strategy. We’ll guide you through pre-approval, off-market searches, and negotiation tactics so you can compete smartly even when listings are scarce.