October 2026

The usual spring uptick in real estate activity has taken a back seat, with national housing values continuing to ease across major markets. Driven by broader economic shifts—including recent Reserve Bank cash rate hikes reaching 4.60 per cent and rising unemployment—buyer borrowing power has tightened, leading to flatter price growth and lower overall transaction volumes compared to last year. However, long-term fundamentals remain sturdy, with 10-year capital gains holding firm across both house and unit sectors nationally.

Market conditions are currently creating distinct scenarios for every participant. Well-prepared buyers and first-home seekers are finding less competition at open homes and auctions, though borrowing capacity requires careful management. Vendors are facing a quieter spring season than usual, making accurate pricing relative to recent sales essential. Meanwhile, property investors are navigating higher holding costs and tax policy updates, though strong underlying rental demand continues to keep portfolio sell-offs at bay.

In the rental market, house rents across capital cities have shown signs of stabilizing or slightly easing, offering brief relief to tenants in major hubs. On the supply side, total active rental and sales listing numbers remain relatively steady, pointing to properties taking slightly longer to transact rather than a sudden surge in market stock. The complete report explores city-by-city breakdowns, auction clearance trends, regional market outperformers, and what key economic indicators mean for your next property move.

Read the October 2026 Ray White Now report:Click the image below to read the full report.

Thinking of selling or curious about your property’s value in the current climate? Contact the Ray White Carlingford team today for an up-to-date market appraisal.