As we head towards the end of the year, the spring selling season typically accelerates.
Families planning to move towns and cities to start 2026 fresh in new jobs with kids in new schools are beginning to feel the pressure, especially in prime areas near quality schools where stock is limited.
Brisbane’s Growing Appeal
This year, there’s a noticeable uptick in interest from buyers looking to relocate to Brisbane. And why not? The city continues to shine as a highly attractive option in the exciting lead-up to the 2032 Olympics. Employment remains strong, wages are climbing, and the lifestyle is second to none.
First Home Buyer Incentives Fuel Demand
This migration increase is coupled with the Federal Government’s First Home Buyer Assistance Package, available for purchases up to $1,000,000, which has ignited demand in the lower end of the market. This segment of the market was already hot and has created wonderful flow on effects to the mid-tier markets.
Record-Breaking Sales
Just last week, we saw some extraordinary results:
- A dated townhouse in St Lucia sold for over $1,300,000
- A high-end home in Ascot achieved $10,000,000
- $18,500,000 in New Farm at auction of a Tim Stewart design home
- $26,000,000 riverfront property on the Gold Coast – highest riverfront sale in 2025
Both sales are well above recent benchmarks and are setting the pace for the market.
Cash is King
Records are being set daily across nearly every suburb within a 10 Km radius of the CBD. Cashed-up buyers are ready to move quickly. Try buying a property with a finance clause at the moment, it seems only cash contracts are acceptable!
So, how does this affect valuations?
Having anticipated this upswing and the dynamic market movements, I have been advising lawyers to have valuations completed just before making any key decisions as currently is important. As discussed last month, the lifespan of a valuation is determined by market conditions, not a fixed timeframe, and varies by property type.
It’s also important to avoid relying on standout sales unless they’re supported by broader market evidence.
So, the outlook for 2026 in Queensland and especially the South East corner is very bright. Momentum is strong, and all indicators point to continued growth and opportunity.