As 2026 begins, housing conditions remain stable on the surface, but uneven beneath.
According to a forecast by the Real Estate Buyers Agents Association of Australia (REBAA), the market in 2026 will be “stable yet divergent”, predominantly influenced by federal housing initiatives, state-level planning, rental reforms, and cost-of-living pressures.
REBAA’s president Melinda Jennison said that the outlook remains broadly steady, but outcomes are increasingly fragmented between capital cities and regional markets, as well as across price points.
While some markets have softened as higher rates and rising stock levels tempered price growth, others, particularly those still viewed as relatively affordable, have remained resilient. Population growth, tight rental conditions, and limited new housing supply have continued to underpin demand in these areas.
“Across the country, demand for well-located, quality homes and investment-grade assets has remained solid, even as many buyers adjust expectations on budget, location and dwelling type,” Jennison said.
Lower-value market segments and more affordable corridors in several cities have continued to attract strong interest from first home buyers, supported by the federal government’s First Home Guarantee Scheme, while some premium markets have normalised after the rapid gains of previous years.
“Overall, the national picture is one of divergent but generally stable market performance, with local economic conditions, migration trends and policy settings all playing a role,” Jennison added.
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https://www.brokerdaily.au/ “What does Australia’s housing market look like for 2026” / Julia Barnes