Buyers Stay Alert as RBA Holds Rates and Supply Stays Tight

The Reserve Bank of Australia has decided to hold the cash rate steady, and that news has plenty of buyers paying close attention. Although inflation is coming down and the overall economy is growing only slowly, the bank felt it was wiser to wait rather than cut the rate right now. For anyone looking to buy a home, this move keeps the current playing field the same for a little while longer. Because listings are still low and lending rules haven’t changed, some shoppers are jumping in early, hoping they will beat other buyers in case rates fall later in the year.

Steady Gains Across Capital Cities Despite Mixed Annual Trends

Across the capitals, property prices continue to record a gradual advance. In the month of October, national dwelling values climbed by 0.6 percent, pushing the annual figure to 2.7 percent. Brisbane remains a standout, notching 7 percent year on year, while Perth and Adelaide raced ahead with lifts of 12.6 percent and 17.3 percent, respectively. In contrast, Melbourne prices are still sliding slightly when measured against twelve months ago, underlining the fragmentary nature of the current recovery.

During the recent school break, there were fewer auctions scheduled, yet buyer interest held strong. Last week, 1,786 properties went under the hammer across the country, and early clearance rates staying above 70 remains a sign of a healthy marketplace. Melbourne and Sydney once again drove numbers, but even smaller cities such as Brisbane and Canberra kept their momentum going. This steady activity shows that buyers are still keen, even with less stock to choose from.

Rental Growth Slows But Remains Positive in Key Markets

After months of rapid increases, rental pressure is finally showing signs of easing. Nationwide rents climbed 1.3 over the June quarter, the slowest second-quarter rise recorded since 2020. That said, performance varies by regionDarwin rents jumped 2.9 over the same stretch, while Brisbane’s increase was 2.0. For investors and mortgage clients looking for a mix of reliable income and tenant affordability, these stronger markets continue to offer appealing yield potential

Soaring Asking Prices Point to Seller Confidence

Across many cities, rising asking prices reveal how sure sellers feel about the current market. Sydney’s average house now sits above 2 million dollars, while Adelaide and Brisbane record solid gains for mid-range homes. Because well-priced, median homes are selling faster than luxury listings, momentum clearly favours the lower and middle segments.

Thorough Loan Prep Beats Missing Market Chances

In this fast-moving climate, a mere preapproval won’t cut it, buyers should know their full borrowing limits, anticipated cash flow, and loan costs. Any hangup at the lender can end with someone else snagging a house, especially at busy auctions. Skilled brokers will urge clients to start paperwork early and stay tuned to changing rules that trail interest rate moves and policy shifts.
Whether you’re buying your first home, trading up, or refinancing an existing loan, we work to pair your mortgage with your life goals and plans for the property. When you feel ready to take that step, our OM Financials team stands ready to walk you through the numbers and show you the openings ahead. Ring us at 0478 876 967 or head to omfinancials.com.au to discover more on the loan option . Prefer a face-to-face chat, Schedule your personal meeting and together we’ll build a clear path toward property success.