Why Strategic Sellers Are Moving Before January

Andrew Bell Market Update | Issue 25

Why Strategic Sellers Are Moving Before January

As we head toward December, it’s becoming increasingly important to reflect on where the market stands and where it’s heading in 2026. After five years of one of the strongest real estate periods in Australia’s history, it’s easy for homeowners to feel comfortable with the idea that prices simply rise year after year.

But for those of us who have experienced many cycles, we know this has never been the case. The true foundation of real estate success is timing, knowing when to buy, and more importantly, knowing when to sell.

Over recent weeks, the Australian stock market has shown its first real volatility in years. After a spectacular five-year run mirroring the strength of the property market, we’re now seeing fluctuations, corrections and questions about whether values have become overstretched.

Across all asset classes: gold, oil, shares and real estate, markets tend to move in waves driven by confidence. When people start to buy or sell, others often follow. Today, a number of triggers are prompting property owners to reassess their position:

• Five years of rapid value growth, with some properties more than doubling.
• Softening in parts of the employment market.
• A noticeable cooling in construction activity.
• A recent spike in inflation that surprised many economists.
• Media speculation around Australia’s high levels of borrowing and the potential for further interest rate rises.

All of these factors are creating a knock-on effect for consumer confidence. People are becoming more cautious about their personal financial situation and increasingly aware of how quickly markets can shift.

As a result, we’re seeing more experienced property owners quietly bringing their homes to market ahead of the critical month of January, the strongest selling period on the Gold Coast every year. Many are choosing certainty, locking in exceptional capital gains achieved over the past five years rather than waiting to see how the next cycle plays out.

History shows us that when markets turn, they often turn suddenly. A global event, a policy announcement, or even a sharp economic update can change the environment virtually overnight and today, both globally and domestically, there is no shortage of catalysts.

If you’re considering selling in early 2026, I encourage you to reach out now. Each year, only a select number of properties are accepted to maintain the right balance, large enough to command attention but never so large that listings compete with one another. And a quick reminder: there’s only one “The Event”,  the original, trademarked campaign. Don’t be misled by imitators.

As we approach the festive season, I wish you a wonderful few weeks ahead. December always slips away quickly, so I hope you find time to celebrate with loved ones and enjoy this special time of year.

Andrew Bell, OAM
Chairman & CEO | Ray White Bell Group