Is this a buyer’s market? Rates, listings and the next property move

Is a softer Australian property market finally giving buyers the upper hand, or are good homes still hard to find? On the Australian Property Podcast, Pete Wargent and Chris Bates unpack what higher interest rates, weaker prices and a shortage of fresh listings mean for the months ahead. Pete examines how the downturn differs by city and price bracket, with more expensive homes under pressure while affordable parts of the market have held up better. Chris explains why a cheaper-looking apartment or a well-known suburb is not enough: building quality, strata costs, location and the individual property still matter. Their views on a possible Melbourne recovery and the outlook for Brisbane and Perth are scenarios, not certainties. They also tackle a property-market puzzle. Some homes have sat unsold for months, yet new listings remain scarce. Does that create genuine bargaining power, or just a standoff between buyers and sellers? Pete and Chris discuss what might turn a slowdown into a buyer’s market, including motivated vendors, interest rates and the supply of desirable homes. Two listener questions bring the conversation back to decisions families face now: how parents can help a daughter prepare for home ownership, and what an inner-west Sydney buyer should look for when prices soften but stock stays tight. Expect a practical discussion of earning power, money habits, negotiating room and why the market bottom is usually clearest only in hindsight. Episode resources – Ask a question (select the Property podcast) Show partner resources – Join Pearler using the code "RASKSWITCH" and get $32 of Pearler Credit – Whatever comes next for your business, power it with Stripe 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 The information in this episode is provided by The Rask Group Pty Ltd and contains general financial product advice only. It does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting, consider whether the information is appropriate for you and consider seeking personal advice from a licensed financial adviser. You can read our Financial Services Guide at www.rask.com.au/fsg. If a financial product is mentioned, consider the relevant PDS and TMD, where applicable, before making any financial decision. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. Returns are not guaranteed and capital may be at risk. The Rask Group Pty Ltd is a Corporate Authorised Representative No. 1280930 of Rask Licensing Pty Ltd, AFSL 563 907. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices