Is peak fear here for property? Negative gearing, SMSF risk and the six-year rule

In this episode of Australian Property Podcast, Pete Wargent and Chris Bates ask whether Australia’s housing market has moved from nerves to peak fear. They unpack weaker auction results in Sydney and Melbourne, falling prices, softer new-home sales and why investor sentiment keeps deteriorating even as hopes build for lower rates later in 2026. A key focus is policy risk: how proposed negative gearing and capital gains tax changes could hit established-property demand, why self-managed super fund lending may become the next political battleground, and whether investors end up being pushed towards new builds or Melbourne apartments instead. They also test a few narratives gaining traction right now, including whether peak fear may open a window for first-home buyers, why headlines about Melbourne apartments and boutique developments need more scrutiny, and what a genuine market reset would look like across owner-occupier suburbs, investor pockets and regional areas rather than just in headlines. Pete and Chris then move from headlines to practical strategy, explaining what buyers should watch around confidence, supply, serviceability and sensational market narratives. In the listener Q&A, they tackle whether to keep a townhouse when upgrading to a forever home, how the six-year CGT rule works in practice, and whether AI could become deflationary for households carrying big debt. Episode resources – Ask a question (select the Property podcast) Show partner resources – Join Pearler using the code "RASKSWITCH" and get $32 of Pearler Credit EOFY deals to know about - ending June/July 2026 – 1 free trade per month, for 12 months, for new Pearler customers Rask resources – Pete's Buyers Agency – Alcove mortgage broking – Amy Lunardi Buyers Agency (Melbourne) – All services – Financial Planning – Invest with us – Access Show Notes – Ask a question – We love feedback! Follow us on social media – Instagram: @rask.invest – TikTok: @rask.invest DISCLAIMER: This podcast contains general financial information only. That means the information does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Because of that, you should consider if the information is appropriate to you and your needs, before acting on it. If you’re confused about what that means or what your needs are, you should always consult a licensed and trusted financial planner. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information in this podcast, including any financial, taxation, and/or legal information. Remember, past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. The Rask Group is NOT a qualified tax accountant, financial (tax) adviser, or financial adviser. Access The Rask Group's Financial Services Guide (FSG): https://www.rask.com.au/fsg Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices