Is Now a Good Time to Buy Property? A Balanced View for 2025–26
It’s a question we hear every week: “Is now a good time to buy property?”
With interest rates stabilising, market sentiment shifting, and housing affordability under pressure, buyers across Australia are understandably cautious – but also curious.
At Crest Property Investments, we believe there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Whether now is the right time to buy depends on your financial goals, strategy, and what you’re buying. That said, there are clear signs in 2025 that present both challenges and opportunities for smart investors and first-home buyers.
Here’s our balanced view of the current market landscape. The Case For Buying in 2025–26
1. Interest Rates Have Stabilised – and May Start to Ease
After a string of increases between 2022 and 2023, the Reserve Bank of Australia has held interest rates steady through much of 2024 and into 2025. This period of stability has brought greater predictability for buyers planning their finances and long-term repayments.
Looking ahead, many economists are forecasting modest rate cuts over the next 6-12 months as inflation trends downward and economic conditions soften. While not guaranteed, the possibility of lower interest rates in late 2025 or 2026 could improve borrowing capacity and reduce the cost of holding property.
For buyers considering off-the-plan purchases—where settlement may be 12 to 24 months away, this could align well with a more favourable lending environment.
2. Rising Rental Yields
Across both metro and regional markets, tight rental supply has driven yields higher. For investors, this creates strong cash flow potential, especially in new properties that offer low maintenance costs and high tenant appeal.
3. Off-the-Plan Opportunities
With fewer buyers in the market, developers are offering more competitive pricing, flexible payment structures, and incentives on off-the-plan stock. For buyers who act early, it’s possible to secure quality property now and settle in 12–24 months, allowing time to plan and potentially benefit from market uplift.
4. Long-Term Undersupply
Australia continues to face a housing shortage, especially in growing suburbs and regional hubs. Population growth, migration, and limited new supply point to a long-term demand imbalance. This underpins future capital growth potential, particularly for brand-new homes in emerging areas.
“Proceed with Caution” – What to Be Aware Of
While there are many reasons to feel optimistic about the current market, it’s also important to consider the factors that could affect your ability—or your confidence—to buy right now.
1. Affordability Still a Barrier
Despite some price softening in recent years, many buyers—especially first-home buyers—are still feeling the pinch. Deposits, borrowing capacity, and upfront costs can be hurdles, particularly in inner-city or blue-chip suburbs.
2. Economic Uncertainty
While things have settled, inflation and global economic pressures continue to affect confidence. Some buyers may prefer to wait and watch, particularly if their employment situation is unstable or if they’re not ready to commit.
3. Not All Locations Will Perform
The property market is never one market. Some areas will see growth, while others may stagnate or decline. Choosing the right location, property type, and timing is critical—and this is where professional guidance makes all the difference.
So… Is It a Good Time for You to Buy?
Here are a few key questions to consider:
- Are your finances in order (deposit, borrowing capacity, ongoing costs)?
- Are you buying for long-term gain, not just short-term speculation?
- Have you identified a growth location that fits your strategy?
- Do you have the right team—including a buyer’s adviser, broker, and legal support?
If you can confidently answer “yes” to these, then now may very well be a good time for you to buy.
How Crest Property Investments Can Help
- We help buyers identify the right property, in the right location, at the right time, so that your purchase is strategic, not reactive.
- Whether you’re a first-home buyer or an investor, we offer:
- Free, tailored advice on brand-new and off-the-plan properties
- Due diligence on developers and locations
- Access to exclusive stock across Melbourne and beyond
- A full concierge service from search to settlement
Where To From Here?
Timing the market is never easy and it’s rarely perfect. But buying the right property in a growth location, when your finances are prepared, can be more important than waiting for the “perfect time.”
If you’re thinking about taking the next step, we’re here to help you do it confidently—with the guidance and support you need to succeed.
Let’s explore what’s possible – your property journey might begin now.
If you’d like some assistance sourcing a brand new or off the plan property, please don’t hesitate contact us.
We would welcome the opportunity to help with your property purchase. Our YouTube channel and Market Insights also provide a wealth of information to assist you with many areas relating to property.
While we have taken care to ensure the information above is true and correct at the time of publication, changes in circumstances and legislation after the displayed date may impact the accuracy of this article. If you want to learn more, please contact us. We welcome the opportunity to assist you.
August 2025
