Market Intelligence · November 2026
Why I believe the next six weeks could present a better selling environment than the previous two.
The RBA’s latest interest rate increase will reduce buyers’ borrowing capacity, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they exit the market. Many simply adjust their budgets and continue searching.
We’ve experienced markets with considerably higher interest rates where property values continued to rise. Rates matter, but so do confidence, supply and demand.
Seven Factors Shaping The Weeks Ahead
1. Government spending restraint
Following the RBA’s November rate increase, Treasurer Jim Chalmers confirmed the government would announce further budget savings in December’s Mid-Year Economic and Fiscal Outlook.
The timing is significant. Meaningful spending restraint could help ease inflationary pressure and support interest rate stability.
2. Victorian election (28 November)
The election could influence broader consumer confidence, particularly in Melbourne, with potential flow-on effects for other markets.
3. December RBA decision (8 December)
If rates remain on hold, we could enter approximately three months without a rate change, with the next meeting scheduled for February 2027. This could provide buyers with greater certainty.
4. Acceptance of current interest rates
The anticipation of rate changes can create more uncertainty than the rates themselves. As buyers adjust to current borrowing costs, decisions may become easier.
5. Signs of a market bottom
There is growing discussion about Sydney approaching its market floor. While recent figures still show declines, sustained stabilisation could indicate improving conditions.
6. Buyer and seller expectations are narrowing
Locally, I’m observing a smaller gap between seller expectations and buyer offers. Negotiations are becoming more productive, suggesting we may be approaching the market’s floor.
7. Pre-Christmas urgency
Motivated buyers want to secure property before Christmas, while committed sellers want certainty before the holiday break. This shared urgency can create opportunities to transact.
What This Means For Sellers
- Be price aligned. Sellers anchored to yesterday’s values risk remaining unsold before Christmas.
- Take qualified buyers seriously. Buyers who have sold, arranged finance and are ready to transact are particularly valuable.
- Be cautious with subject-to-sale offers. Certainty of settlement is critical.
- Know when to withdraw. If you’re unwilling to meet the market, a fresh January or February campaign may be preferable.
What This Means For Buyers
I believe the period between now and mid-December presents one of the better buying opportunities we’ve seen in some time.
Buyers currently have greater negotiating power, more choice and less competition across many segments.
January traditionally brings increased inquiry and inspections, but more buyers doesn’t necessarily mean more qualified buyers.
Many January buyers are beginning their search, whereas those active today are often researched, financially prepared and ready to purchase.
As we enter 2027, potentially stable rates, renewed activity and improving confidence could begin shifting the negotiating environment.
My Final Thought
We may look back on the final weeks of 2026 as one of the better buying opportunities of this property cycle.
For sellers, realistic pricing and recognising a qualified buyer will be essential. For buyers, the opportunity is to act before competition returns.
The market doesn’t need to be rising for good property decisions to be made. Buyers and sellers simply need to agree on value.
