What the Property Market Is Whispering (That Most People Aren’t Hearing)

Something interesting is happening right now in the property market… and most people are missing it.  

Home prices across the board have started to stall.  

For the first time in nearly two years, some cities are no longer going up—Melbourne is down even more. 

But at the same time… interest rates are falling.  

That means borrowing power is rising, and investors are quietly starting to get back in the game.  

I spoke to a client recently who said,  

"It feels like nothing’s really moving—but something’s about to."  

And they’re right.  

Let me tell you what I hear from the experts...  

2024 was a mixed bag:  

• Perth surged up 17%  

• Melbourne dropped  

• Sydney barely moved 

Meanwhile, the average Australian property still rose 3.8%. But that’s not the story.  

The real story is this:  

We’re now in a two-speed market.  

• Some areas (like Perth, Brisbane, Adelaide) who have been flying are cooling.  

• Others are like Melbourne and Sydney have been cooling off since 2022.  

• And underneath it all, supply is tight, borrowing is about to get easier, and renters are feeling the pinch.  

The PropTrack Home Price Index Graph below provides a comprehensive overview of monthly changes in home values across Australia since 2015. 

So what’s the move?  

The next chapter in 2025 will not be the same as the last.  

This part of the cycle is quieter. The market is recalibrating.  

Sellers are adjusting expectations.  

Buyers are getting more leverage.  

Vacancy rates are near record lows.  

And unit prices and regional markets? They’re starting to shine.  

But here’s the thing—the biggest mistake investors make is waiting too long.  

By the time the headlines say “property boom is back,” the real opportunity will be gone.  

What I want you to take away from this:  

1. There is no “one” property market  

2. National averages tell you very little  

3. You need a smart plan based on location, timing, and strategy—not just guesswork  

It’s not a red light or green light market. It’s amber. And smart investors are already moving.  

What does this mean for you?  

Here’s a quick guide depending on where you’re at:  

• First Home Buyers  

Borrowing power is improving (student loans excluded in servicing) and prices are soft in some areas—especially units. Be ready, not reactive. Have your deposit and pre-approval lined up before demand kicks again.  

• Existing Homeowners  

Now is the time to review your mortgage rate and property equity. Could you refinance or leverage equity before prices move again?  

• Thinking About Investing in Property?  

This is your early access window. Don’t wait for the boom. Some areas are currently priced very well with expectations of growth over the next 3 years. Now’s the time to act with data, not headlines.  

• Already Investing in Property  

Stay sharp. There’s growing opportunity in areas with tight rental supply and strong yield. This is a good time to review your portfolio and position for the second half of 2025 and onwards.  

• Retirees  

If property forms part of your income plan or long-term legacy, now’s the time to review your assets. Is the current market giving you the cash flow and stability you need?  

Want to know how property fits in your plan?  
Contact us with “Property 2025” and we’ll help you make your next moves with confidence.  

P.S we also hear from the experts that a rate cut could be coming on the 20th of May...  

This blog contains information that is general in nature. It does not constitute financial or taxation advice. The information does not take into account your objectives, needs and circumstances. We recommend that you obtain investment and taxation advice specific to your investment objectives, financial situation and particular needs before making any investment decision or acting on any of the information contained in this document. Subject to law, Cobalt Advisers Pty Ltd nor their directors, employees or authorised representatives, do not give any representation or warranty as to the reliability, accuracy or completeness of the information; or accepts any responsibility for any person acting, or refraining from acting, on the basis of the information contained in this document.