Andrew Bell Market Update 2026 | Issue 01
Fresh Buying Opportunities at The Event 2026
A very Happy New Year to you, and welcome to the first market update of 2026.
A new year inevitably brings optimism and renewed motivation. However, experience reminds us that outcomes are not accidental; they are shaped by the quality of the decisions we make, particularly in real estate.
The Gold Coast market has entered 2026 with strong momentum. This time of year traditionally delivers heightened activity, supported by the arrival of more than a million visitors over the summer period. Although the weather has been milder and breezier than many expected, this has not dampened interest. On the contrary, it has encouraged significant levels of buyer inspection activity across a wide range of properties.
January is also the month in which the Gold Coast hosts Australia’s largest in-room auction program, The Event. Established 32 years ago by the Ray White Bell Group, it has grown into a nationally recognised showcase of real estate opportunity. The Event 2026 features an exceptionally diverse collection of properties: one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments, penthouses, townhouses, family homes, acreage, vacant land and an extensive range of commercial assets across the retail, office and industrial sectors.
Public auctions generally involve highly motivated sellers, while private treaty campaigns can sometimes launch with more experimental price expectations. It is for this reason that buyers are strongly encouraged to include The Event 2026 properties in their search. Inspection schedules are now underway. Some properties have restricted viewing times due to holiday letting or tenancy arrangements; however, our team is pleased to organise additional inspections wherever possible.
Beneath the seasonal activity lies a fundamental truth: housing is essential. Australia remains deeply entrenched in a housing supply crisis. The construction of new dwellings is not keeping pace with population growth, producing an acute shortage of available properties. This imbalance continues to place upward pressure on values and is likely to influence the market for years to come.
The same imbalance is evident in the rental sector. Vacancy remains historically low, creating strong conditions for investors — combining the potential for capital growth with resilient rental demand and solid returns.
I am pleased to confirm that my fortnightly real estate market reports will continue throughout 2026. After more than 50 years in the industry, including 36 years here on the Gold Coast leading one of Australia’s largest offices within the nation’s largest real estate group, I remain committed to sharing timely and well-informed commentary. My ongoing involvement with national industry bodies provides valuable access to data, trends and policy insights. My goal is always the same: to equip you with clear information so you can make confident, well-considered property decisions.
There is much ahead of us in 2026, beginning with The Event later this month. I encourage you to review the catalogue, attend inspections, and explore the opportunities available. The property you have been considering may well be among the The Event 2026 listings.
I look forward to seeing many of you there and to supporting your real estate goals in the year ahead.
Wishing you a successful and rewarding 2026.
Andrew Bell, OAM
Chairman & CEO | Ray White Bell Group
