Sydney stands out as the frontrunner in the auction scene, displaying a robust 78% clearance rate based on early reports. August's average final clearance rate for Sydney was a remarkable 72%, the highest since February 2024. Meanwhile, Melbourne's performance was slightly softer, recording a preliminary clearance rate of 73.2%—still maintaining its 19-week streak of 70% or higher.
The stronger auction market in Sydney supports Cotality’s findings that daily dwelling values are appreciating more swiftly in the city compared to Melbourne. This disparity is largely attributed to the anticipation of the Albanese government’s upcoming 5% deposit scheme for first-time home buyers, effective from 1 October.
According to Tom Panos, a renowned real estate agent and auctioneer based in Sydney, there's a noticeable sense of urgency among homebuyers. Panos observed a sharp increase in bidder activity as buyers rush to secure properties before the scheme's implementation, which is expected to intensify market competition. His observations were reinforced by his own auction results, where he facilitated ten consecutive property sales.
What's Next for the Australian Housing Market? The market could experience heightened activity as buyers seek to capitalise on the deposit guarantee, which allows borrowers to waive mortgage insurance on homes under $1.5 million. Sellers have also been influenced by the shift, with some contemplating delaying auctions until after the scheme launches to leverage predicted increases in demand.
As the government’s scheme approaches, both buyers and vendors are recalibrating their strategies, indicating a potentially more competitive housing market post-implementation. Experts highlight the importance of monitoring these dynamics closely to understand their long-term impact on the Australian real estate landscape.
