Welcome to our August edition

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Australia’s property market continues to adjust to higher interest rates, affordability pressures and ongoing economic uncertainty shaping conditions for buyers and homeowners alike.

In many areas, conditions are becoming more favourable for buyers. Home values have eased, properties are taking longer to sell and auction activity is subdued, giving buyers more opportunity to negotiate.

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A recent KPMG report suggests housing conditions may remain subdued through the rest of 2026, forecasting a 1.1% decline in national house prices before a projected recovery in 2027. Unit markets are expected to prove more resilient, with prices forecast to continue rising over the next two years.

Property investors are also navigating an evolving regulatory landscape. From 10 August, changes to SMSF borrowing rules will add a third clause to the definition on an acquirable asset. This means that only property that meets the definition of business real property is able to be financed through a loan within an SMSF.

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Existing arrangements on property contracts that were signed prior to 10 August 2026 will remain grandfathered, although there is some uncertainty as to how many lenders and loan products will remain in the space once the changes are in place. Furthermore, residential property will still be able to be purchased outright using cash reserves of the SMSF only.

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For those looking to buy this spring, having your finance in order is paramount. Chat to us now about organising pre-approval on your home loan. That way, you’ll be ready to jump in when you find your dream home or investment property.

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