National Prices Climb, Rents Surge, and Investors Target Entry-Level Homes

Andrew Bell Market Update | Issue 20

National Prices Climb, Rents Surge, and Investors Target Entry-Level Homes

Hi, Andrew Bell here with your latest market insights. Today’s update comes from the spectacular Silverpoint Penthouse in Main Beach, an apartment that has been the holiday home of long-time client Harry Triguboff for over 30 years. With Harry now parting ways with the property, this represents a rare opportunity to secure one of the Gold Coast’s most remarkable residences.

We showcase this incredible property in the video above or view the full listing here. 

I want to also share what’s happening in the broader market, both nationally and here on the Gold Coast.

National Market Snapshot

According to the latest Real Estate Institute of Australia (REIA) data for the June quarter:

• House prices rose 1.9% across capital cities, bringing the national median above $1.09 million.

• Apartment prices also increased, now averaging $713,000 nationally.

• Rental market pressures continue, with the median rent for three-bedroom houses jumping 5.7% to $633 per week.

Vacancy rates remain at just 0.8% across capital cities, well below the 3% benchmark for a balanced market. This means demand is outweighing supply, and rents are climbing sharply as a result.

The Rise of Affordable Housing

The affordable housing segment is significantly outperforming the broader market, showing annual growth of 8.3% compared to 8% overall. The reason is simple economics: fewer affordable homes are available, but more people are chasing them. For investors, this is where the momentum lies.

First Home Buyers Re-Enter the Market

A major policy change has been the expansion of the First Home Buyers Guarantee scheme:

• Income caps have been removed.

• Property price thresholds have been raised.

• At least 20,000 new buyers are expected to enter the market.

This scheme allows eligible buyers to purchase with as little as a 5% deposit, potentially reducing upfront costs by as much as $150,000. This will further fuel demand in the entry-level housing market.

Commercial Property Trends

Interestingly, Australian CBDs are beginning to split into different market segments. Cities like Sydney and Perth, with strong retail diversity, are outperforming those that rely heavily on food-only precincts such as Canberra and Melbourne. The lesson is clear: diverse retail offerings drive stronger commercial outcomes, and this will influence how city planners and investors approach future developments.

Bellissimo Charity Lunch at the Mondrian

Finally, I’m delighted to extend a personal invitation to our inaugural Bellissimo Charity Lunch, a new chapter in our long tradition of community support.

After 31 years of hosting our annual ball in aid of Muscular Dystrophy, we’re embracing the Gold Coast lifestyle with a fresh format: a stylish Friday afternoon lunch at the new Mondrian Hotel in Burleigh Heads on Friday, 24 October.

Set around the pool club, the event will feature chic European-inspired dining, fresh oysters, and a relaxed, elegant atmosphere. Tickets are $299 per person, with larger tables already filling fast, but spaces still available for couples, friends, and small groups. All proceeds will support children living with muscular dystrophy, a vital cause that is close to our hearts.

More info and tickets here

The real estate landscape is constantly evolving, but one thing remains clear: timing and informed decision-making are critical. Whether you’re a buyer, seller, or investor, staying ahead of these shifts ensures you’re positioned for success.

I’ll be back in a fortnight with more insights. Until then, enjoy life and take care.

Until next time,

Andrew Bell, OAM
Chairman | Ray White Bell Group