The preceding low clearance rate was influenced by the King's Birthday long weekend, which led to a reduction of approximately one-third in the number of auctions held. As the auction market regained momentum, Melbourne also reported strong activity with a preliminary clearance rate of 72.2%, maintaining its stability above the 70% threshold for the seventh consecutive week.
In addition to the auction success, Sydney home values increased by 0.6% over the past 28 days, as per data from Cotality. This marks the most robust value growth for the city since March 2024.
Forecasts from the futures market anticipate a further 0.25% reduction in the official cash rate in July, with two more cuts expected later this year. Should these predictions hold true, the cash rate would decrease to 3.10% by year-end, a drop of 1.25% from its peak. Given Sydney's sensitivity to interest rate changes, largely due to its affordability challenges, such rate cuts could significantly stimulate the market.
The anticipated boost will be compounded by the forthcoming first home buyers' incentive, offering a 5% deposit scheme set to commence on 1 January 2026 under the Albanese government.
However, the dynamics of supply and demand in Sydney are shifting. Over the year to May, the city saw a 5.2% increase in for-sale listings, contrasting with a 2.1% national decline. This increase might limit the upward pressure on property prices despite the expected market stimuli.
