Buying and Selling in Today’s Market: What You Need to Know
Navigating the Sydney property market can feel overwhelming, especially as conditions shift. With interest rates rising, overseas economic pressures influencing confidence, and buyer behaviour changing, having the right strategy — and the right advice — is more important than ever. Here are the key things to consider.
Selling: Timing and Preparation Matter
Before listing your home, think strategically:
Time in the property: How long have you owned it, and what capital gains implications apply?
Presentation: What work is needed to get it sale‑ready — maintenance, decluttering, styling?
Appraisal: When was your last valuation? Updated appraisals reflect current market sentiment, not last year’s peak.
Target buyer: Launch when your ideal buyer is active. For example, avoid school holidays if selling a family home.
Market conditions: Rising interest rates can reduce borrowing capacity, so pricing and presentation must be sharp.
Buying: Understand What the Market Is Really Doing
With global economic uncertainty and higher rates, buyers are more selective — but good opportunities still move quickly.
Know your market: Track sales in your preferred suburbs to understand true selling prices, not just guide prices.
Reality‑check your wishlist: Compare recent sales to your budget to ensure expectations align with current conditions.
Act decisively: Quality properties still attract competition, especially from buyers seeking stability amid global volatility.
Accommodation: Plan for the Gap
If you sell first, consider where you’ll live if your next purchase takes longer than expected.
Standard settlement is 6 weeks, but even with a 12‑week settlement, life and work can slow your search.
Short‑term accommodation needs to be factored into your timing and budget.
Financial Position: Clarity Is Everything
Whether you buy or sell first often comes down to your numbers.
Understand what your current property is likely to sell for in today’s market.
Factor in stamp duty, transaction costs, and whether you may need bridging finance — which is more expensive in a rising‑rate environment.
Global economic shifts can influence bank lending policies, so stay informed and pre‑approved.
We often advise clients to buy and sell within the same market cycle to avoid chasing rising prices or being caught by sudden rate changes.
Why Working With a Buyers Agent Matters More Now
In a market shaped by interest rate increases, overseas economic pressures, and fluctuating buyer confidence, timing and strategy are everything.
A buyers agent gives you:
Access to on‑ and off‑market opportunities
Real‑time insight into shifting buyer and seller behaviour
Strong negotiation skills to protect your budget
A coordinated buy‑and‑sell strategy within a 6–8 week window
A smoother, more controlled transition between properties
We work six days a week in the market, understand how conditions are changing, and know exactly when and how to move to secure the right property at the right price.
Want clarity on your next move?
If you’d like tailored advice or insight into the suburbs you’re looking to buy or sell in, I’m always happy to chat property.
