Spring Awakening: What Canberra Can Learn from the National Property Confidence Rebound

Spring 2025 marks a turning point for Australia’s housing market. NAB’s Residential Property Index has surged to +44, the highest level in a year, and property prices have lifted for six consecutive months. For Canberra, this national momentum offers a timely reset. At Hayman Partners, we see opportunity, and responsibility, to help Canberra buyers and sellers navigate with clarity, confidence, and local insight.

1. Understanding the Confidence Surge
Let’s unpack the headlines:

• The index reflects sentiment among agents, developers, investors, and industry insiders, and it’s now positive in every state and territory.

• First‑home buyers are stepping forward in unprecedented numbers, with a 40 per cent market share, the highest since December 2022.

• House prices have risen ~3 per cent since January, despite elevated borrowing costs, supported by easing rate outlooks.

In practical terms, this means buyers are more active, auctions more competitive, and listings more likely to attract multiple offers.

2. What This Means for Canberra Buyers
Canberra’s market has experienced stagnation, short‑term gains but a near‑1% annual decline in values, reflecting sluggish buyer activity. Yet elevated rental demand (vacancy rate ~1.6%, rents rising) shows appetite remains, particularly among first‑home buyers and renovators.

This newfound national confidence signals a possible turning point. With public servants, investors, and owner‑occupiers watching the market, now is a good time to get pre‑approval, set your strategy, and position yourself for action.

3. Canberra Sellers: Timing the Market
Canberra sellers have seen median values hover, recent trends point to modest monthly gains but annual dips (~‑0.7 per cent). Median house price sits near $975,000; units are softer.

Given that, if confidence is returning, there could be pent‑up demand ready to bite as soon as stock hits. Sellers who prepare now, ensuring their property stands out and is competitively priced—may capture stronger interest than they expect.

4. Strategic Steps for Canberra Buyers & Sellers

For Buyers

• Define your goal: Will this be your forever home, or a rent‑vest opportunity? Location, yield, and value drivers differ.

• Get pre‑approval early: It strengthens your offer. The spring push means lenders may tighten windows. NAB’s tips still ring true.

• Stick to your limits: Emotional bidding can backfire, banks rely on valuations; overpaying may leave you out of pocket.

• Watch for local incentives: Deposit schemes are expanding nationally, but monitor Canberra‑specific programs for added advantages.

For Sellers

• Price with precision: A fair price signals confidence, overpricing can stall momentum.

• Elevate your presentation: First impressions count. Well‑crafted imagery, staging and marketing will matter more in a competitive spring.

• Align with trusted agents: Working with a local specialist—like Hayman Partners—means tapping into Canberra‑specific buyer pools and pricing insight.

5. What Could Probably Come Next

• More listings entering the spring market, as rate pressure eases.

• An uptick in owner‑occupier bidding, particularly among first‑home buyers incentivised by policy.

• Momentum may continue into late 2025, especially if interest rates trend down further.

Conclusion
National confidence in property is re‑awakening, as signalled by NAB’s resurgent index, growing first‑home buyer activity, and steady price gains. For Canberra, this is a signal: the stage may be set for new engagement. At Hayman Partners, we’re grounded, practical, and ready, with local precision, for the spring surge. By defining goals, favouring strategy over hype, and staying market‑ready, Canberra buyers and sellers can make this season count.