Market Tides are Changing

There’s no doubt that the southern Sydney markets have shifted over recent weeks as it’s something we’re seeing firsthand.

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Stock Levels & Vendor Expectations

Stock levels are now higher than the typical spring surge. Where spring peaked around 745 properties on market (dropping to around 430 before Christmas), we’ve seen a recent surge to over 800 once again – something we wouldn’t normally expect around this time of year right before Easter.

Importantly, this isn’t just new listings. A large portion is made up of properties sitting on the market longer than usual. Many vendors are still holding on to original price expectations and refusing to meet the market, even after campaigns don’t go to plan. This includes passed-in auctions with only one or two bidders. This is creating a clear disconnect between buyers and sellers.

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Buyer Behaviour

Adding to the disconnect is a a change in buyer’s behaviour. Mortgage brokers are reporting fewer pre-approvals and agents are seeing more buyers pull out during cooling-off periods. One local agency told us they had six buyers withdraw from exchanged contracts in a single week! Confidence in “solid” buyers is wavering. Additionally, buyers who are ready to act are being more cautious and selective, especially when pricing doesn’t feel aligned with current conditions.

There’s no single driver for this change in sentiment and as usual, there are a mix of factors at play. Cost-of-living pressures, rising interest rates, and broader global uncertainty are all contributing. There is also more discussion around potential CGT changes in the May budget which is adding to the hesitation.

This isn’t a negative market, but it is a more considered one. Well priced properties are still moving. Others are taking longer or not transacting at all.

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Buyer Representation

In these conditions, the right representation matters. With cautious buyers and firm vendors, experience makes a difference. Good buyer’s agents are taken seriously by selling agents as we know how to navigate these changes. So, when we say a buyer is ready, agents know we will follow through. This can be the difference between securing the right property and missing out.

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If you’re looking to buy in the Sutherland Shire or southern Sydney, let’s chat. Your property journey deserves a partner who knows the path—and how to navigate it wisely.

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📞 Book your free consultation with My Property Pro today. Let us help you make it yours.

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