What’s in Store for Australian Real Estate in 2026
By Leigh Martinuzzi | Martinuzzi Property Group – eXp Australia
A 2025 Review and the Trends Shaping the Year Ahead
As we settle into 2026, the Australian property market continues to show its defining trait: resilience.
After another year of price growth through 2025, the market has entered a more balanced phase. The rapid surges of previous years have eased, but demand remains genuine, supply remains tight, and well-located property continues to perform.
Understanding where the market is heading this year starts with a clear look at what shaped it last year.
2025 in Review: Slower Growth, Strong Foundations
Throughout 2025, Australian home values continued to rise, though at a more controlled pace. Population growth, low housing supply and improving buyer confidence supported prices across most markets.
Sydney and Melbourne remained the most expensive cities, but affordability constraints slowed their growth. In contrast, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth continued to outperform on a percentage basis, driven by relative value and strong local demand.
One of the most consistent themes of 2025 was limited supply. New listings stayed below long-term averages, which kept competition strong for quality homes. Rental markets also remained tight, with low vacancy rates and continued upward pressure on rents across much of the country.
What to Expect in 2026
Looking ahead, most forecasts suggest Australian property prices will continue to rise in 2026, but at a more moderate pace.
Growth is expected to sit in the mid single digits nationally, reflecting affordability pressures and higher construction costs. Rather than a single national story, performance will increasingly depend on location, property type and local fundamentals.
Buyers are becoming more selective, prioritising quality, liveability and long-term value. Investors are focusing more on rental demand and yield rather than short-term capital gains.
National Trends to Watch
Affordability remains a key driver in 2026. Markets with lower entry points and strong employment fundamentals are expected to outperform the more expensive capitals on a percentage basis.
Lifestyle locations continue to attract attention, particularly coastal regions and well-connected regional centres. Another clear trend is quality over compromise. Well-presented, energy-efficient homes in strong locations are selling faster and holding value better than secondary stock.
Sunshine Coast Market Outlook for 2026
The Sunshine Coast enters 2026 in a strong position. Demand throughout 2025 was underpinned by interstate migration, lifestyle appeal and a shortage of quality housing. Many suburbs recorded solid growth, supported by low listing numbers and consistent buyer activity.
Rental conditions remain tight, which continues to support both rental prices and investor confidence. Looking ahead, growth across the Sunshine Coast is expected to continue in 2026, but at a steadier, more sustainable pace.
Infrastructure investment, including the ongoing development of the Maroochydore City Centre and transport upgrades, continues to strengthen the region’s long-term outlook.
Sunshine Coast Suburb Snapshots
While the Sunshine Coast often moves as a region, 2026 is shaping up to reward suburb-level decision-making.
Palmwoods continues to attract families seeking space, schools and community. Demand for modern family homes remains strong, with limited supply supporting steady prices.
Nambour remains one of the more affordable entry points on the Coast. Buyers and investors are drawn by value, transport access and improving local amenity.
Woombye appeals to lifestyle buyers and downsizers, particularly for character homes close to village amenities and major hubs.
Buderim continues to perform as a blue-chip location. Strong school catchments, elevation and limited supply support long-term demand.
Maroochydore sits at the heart of the Coast’s future growth. Ongoing CBD development continues to attract professionals, investors and downsizers seeking walkability and infrastructure-driven upside.
Final Thoughts
The Australian property market enters 2026 from a position of stability rather than excess. Growth is moderating, but demand remains strong and supply remains constrained.
For buyers, preparation and clarity will be key. For sellers, presentation and pricing matter more than ever. For investors, fundamentals such as rental demand and location continue to outweigh short-term noise.
On the Sunshine Coast, the outlook remains positive. The pace may be calmer, but the long-term direction remains clear.
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