WELCOME TO OUR NINTH EDITION OF ON THE MARKET 2026 Through May 2026, the Upper North Shore market has shifted more clearly into buyer-led territory, with behaviour, not demand, driving outcomes. Pricing remains broadly 4–8% below peak, but we are now seeing early softening in some segments. Borrowing capacity is still down by around 10–15%, with the recent interest rate increase adding further pressure to household budgets and reinforcing a more cautious approach from buyers. Rather than stretching to compete, buyers are taking more time, comparing options and negotiating harder. The recent Federal Budget also placed housing affordability and tax reform back into focus, highlighting the ongoing imbalance between supply and demand across the broader property market. While the measures announced may help ease pressure over time, they are unlikely to create immediate change, meaning confidence and affordability remain key factors influencing buyer behaviour in the current environment. This is creating a more defined split across the market. Well-priced homes in the mid-range continue to generate strong early interest and, in some cases, multiple buyers. In contrast, premium properties or those testing the market are taking longer and seeing more price sensitivity. Stock levels are also beginning to build, giving buyers more choice and removing urgency from the decision-making process. The result is a more technical market. Pricing accuracy, early campaign momentum and buyer alignment are now critical. When these elements are right, properties still transact well. When they’re not, days on market extend quickly. For sellers, the gap between “well-positioned” and “misaligned” has never been clearer. This is a market defined by execution, with our median days on market sitting at just 25 days. As the highest selling agency on the Upper North Shore, our reach into the buyer pool is unmatched, allowing us to consistently generate the level of competition needed to deliver premium outcomes. If you’re considering a move in 2026, now is the time to have a strategic conversation about how to position your property in the current market. TURRAMURRA | WAHROONGA | ST IVES | ROSEVILLE | HORNSBY | PENNANT HILLS +61 (2) 9449 9066 | uppernorthshore.nsw@raywhite.com
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTI3ODI1