Market Update – March 2025

The strong momentum seen in January has continued through February and into March, with buyer confidence improving significantly compared to the final quarter of last year. Open home attendance is up, and more buyers are actively making offers rather than waiting for auctions. This shift is largely driven by increasing optimism around interest rates, with many banks now forecasting between two to four rate cuts in 2025. As borrowing conditions improve, we are seeing renewed competition for well-presented properties, particularly in premium locations.

However, while buyer demand is strengthening, the market is far from a blanket seller’s market. There is a clear distinction between properties that are in high demand and those that struggle to attract serious interest. AAA-grade homes—those that are well-maintained, stylishly presented, and in prime locations—continue to command strong competition and premium prices. Buyers are acting decisively on these properties, often making strong pre-auction offers to secure them early.

For properties that don’t meet this high standard, however, it’s a different story. Buyers have become far more selective, willing to wait for the right opportunity rather than settling for a property that doesn’t meet their expectations. This makes preparation more crucial than ever. If you are planning to sell this year, investing in presentation is key to achieving a successful outcome.

How to Maximise Your Sale Price in 2025

Properties that achieve the best results in the current market are those that remove potential buyer objections before going to market. Even small improvements can have a significant impact on both the speed of the sale and the final price achieved. Some key areas to consider:

• First impressions matter – Street appeal is crucial. A well-maintained front garden, fresh exterior paint, and a tidy entrance set the tone for buyers.
• A fresh, modern interior – Neutral wall colours, updated lighting, and refreshed flooring (such as new carpets or refinished timber floors) can make a home feel move-in ready.
• Decluttering and styling – Creating an inviting space that allows buyers to envision themselves living in the home makes a difference. Well-placed furniture, good lighting, and a neutral palette can help showcase the property’s potential.
• Repairs and maintenance – Fixing minor issues like leaky taps, worn cabinetry, or cracked tiles can prevent buyers from seeing the home as a “project” rather than a ready-to-move-in home.

At Axios Real Estate, we offer a hands-on, boutique approach to preparing homes for sale. We have a network of trusted tradespeople, stylists, and landscapers who can help ensure your property presents at its absolute best, giving you the strongest chance of achieving a premium result.

What’s Next for the Market?

Market indicators suggest that with interest rates now beginning to ease, demand will continue to build, especially in high-demand suburbs like Mosman, Cremorne, Neutral Bay, and Kirribilli. Prices have already begun to rebound, with national home values rising 0.40% in February, pushing them 3.94% higher than this time last year. If the expected rate cuts eventuate, this could further improve buyer sentiment and fuel continued price growth.

However, stock levels remain an important factor. More properties were listed for sale in 2024 than in the previous year, with new listings up by 7.9%. If this trend continues, buyers will have more choice, which could impact the level of competition for properties that are not positioned as “must-have” homes. This is why presenting your property well from the start is so important.

Thinking of Selling or Leasing? Let’s Talk.

If you are considering selling or leasing your property this year, we would be happy to provide a market appraisal and discuss the best strategies to ensure a successful outcome. Unlike larger agencies, we offer a highly personalised service with hands-on expertise at every stage. With decades of experience in real estate and property management, we understand what it takes to achieve the best results in this market.

Contact us today for a confidential discussion.

Mike & Kathy
Axios Real Estate
Mosman & Lower North Shore Specialists