Sales Report:
We’ve now moved past Easter/Anzac Day/Election phase and into the next stage of the property cycle. As is typically the case at this time of year, we’re seeing a reduction in the number of new listings coming to market. Buyer demand however, remains steady – so we’re expecting an increase in competition among purchasers and stronger clearance rates over the coming quarter. These are very favourable conditions for sellers. It’s worth noting that people often equate a strong market with high sales volumes, but that’s not always the full picture. Sometimes, high volumes coincide with lower clearance rates or even softer sale prices. A truly advantageous market for sellers can arise when there’s minimal competition – like now – when fewer properties are available and each one stands out more. Something to consider if you’re thinking about making a move this year. Let’s chat if you’d like to explore the possibilities.Investment Report:
Similarly on the investment front, we’re heading into a period that tends to feel quite different from the earlier part of the year. Typically, we see a drop in enquiry levels around now, which often leads to a rise in vacancy rates. That said, the current strength of the rental market suggests we could experience a more stable period than usual. If your property does become vacant during this time, it might be wise to adopt a more realistic approach to rent expectations and be prepared for a slightly longer leasing timeframe. It can also be an ideal window for attending to maintenance or undertaking minor upgrades. Looking ahead though, we’re confident that Spring will bring renewed demand, placing upward pressure on rental prices and helping bring vacancy numbers down to very low levels yet again.And we look forward to discussing what this market may mean for you anytime.