Property market rises to 239,044 listings in August
But annually there has been a decline of 4.2 per cent, suggesting sellers and buyers alike are hesitant about proceeding, SQM Research's Louis Christopher says.
A surge in new properties for sale in Sydney, Melbourne and Canberra has driven national listings to 239,044 — up 5.2 per cent from July.
Annually there has been a decline of 4.2 per cent, suggesting sellers and buyers alike are hesitant about proceeding, according to analysis by SQM Research.
And a rise in older listings that have been on the market for 180 days or more points to pockets of stagnation.
Nationally, aged stock grew 5.0 per cent month-on-month and 6.7 per cent year-on-year. The 64.3 per cent annual increase in old listings in Canberra is particularly stark.
SQM managing director Louis Christopher said: “The August surge in listings is a seasonal lift we anticipated, but the underlying trends tell a more nuanced story.
“While total national listings rose 5.2 per cent month-on-month, we’re still down 4.2 per cent compared to August last year.
“That’s not insignificant — it suggests sellers remain cautious, and buyers are still price-sensitive.”
The rise in new listings – up 14.4 per cent nationally – is encouraging as it means fresh stock is entering the market, according to the respected analyst.
The increase in older listings, particularly in Canberra where stock over 180 days jumped 64 per cent, suggests some properties are missing the mark on pricing or presentation, Christopher said.
“That’s a red flag for agents and vendors alike,” he added. “Overall, the market is showing signs of life, but it’s uneven.
“We’re not in boom territory, and vendors need to be realistic. Buyers are still discerning, and overpriced stock is sitting. The spring season will be a litmus test for sentiment and price elasticity.”
