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You are here: Home / Investor News / Buyers shifting focus to cheaper markets

Buyers shifting focus to cheaper markets

Posted 23/02/2026 by Leifield

Australia’s property market is splitting into two speeds, with affordability dictating where growth is strongest.
Cotality’s latest data shows the rolling 28-day trend in dwelling values has increased more than 1% in Perth, Adelaide and Brisbane, while Sydney and Melbourne are flatlining. That’s despite rates being on hold and first home buyer incentives boosting demand at the lower end.
Cotality economist Kaytlin Ezzy said affordability challenges and tight supply are influencing the pace of growth across capital cities.
“Perth, Adelaide and to a lesser extent Brisbane, while at record high prices, still offer comparatively accessible entry points amid low levels of advertised supply,” she said.
By contrast, Sydney and Melbourne are feeling the impact of high living costs, tighter borrowing assessments and more newly advertised stock. Clearance rates have also weakened since spring, holding below long-term averages (see image).
A graph showing Final auction clearance rates by city
A graph showing Final auction clearance rates by city
Looking ahead, Ms Ezzy said affordable segments are likely to remain the strongest part of the market, as most buyers are still working within strict affordability and serviceability limits.
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