National Property Listings Hit Multi‐Year Lows as Buyers Scramble for Stock Australia’s housing market is facing one of its most significant supply shortages in years, with national listings continuing to fall and competition intensifying, according to the Real Estate Buyers Agent Association of Australia (REBAA).
SQM Research reports that total national residential listings are now about 10 per cent lower than a year ago, confirming a structural tightening in supply across the country. The steepest annual falls were recorded in Darwin (-36.7%), Brisbane (-19.6%), and Perth (-18.0%), highlighting the depth of the shortage in several key markets. Older listings have also dropped 10 per cent year‐on‐year, while distressed listings have plunged 29.4 per cent, which signals strong buyer absorption and fewer forced sales, according to SQM Research.
REBAA President Melinda Jennison said the national trend is unmistakable with buyers competing in markets where quality stock is scarce and sells quickly. “We’re not just dealing with seasonal fluctuations because there is a structural shortage of listings and buyers are feeling the pressure nationwide,” Ms Jennison said. She said the sharp annual declines in cities like Brisbane, Perth and Darwin reflect what buyers’ agents are seeing on the ground.
“When listings fall nearly 20 per cent or more in a year, as they have in Brisbane and Darwin, buyers simply don’t have enough choice,” she said. “That’s when access to pre‐market and off‐market opportunities becomes absolutely critical.” She said that buyers’ agents are increasingly relied upon to uncover opportunities that never reach the major portals because of the current mismatch between available listings and demand from property purchasers. “In a tight‐supply environment, access is everything,” she said.
“Our members are securing quiet, pre‐market, and off‐market listings because selling agents know they bring qualified, ready buyers to the table.” With national asking prices also rising 12.8 per cent year‐on‐year, according to the data, competition remains fierce even as affordability challenges persist, she said. “Good properties are always in strong demand, regardless of broader market
conditions and supply constraints,” she said. “When national stock levels are this low, that demand becomes even more concentrated.
“A skilled and experienced buyers’ agent helps clients move quickly, negotiate confidently and avoid costly mistakes. “In markets where listings are shrinking year‐on‐year, that expertise can be the difference between securing a home and missing out repeatedly.”
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The Rising Appeal of Modular Homes Across Australia he housing landscape in Australia has been evolving rapidly, and one of the most significant shifts in recent years is the growing interest in modular construction. Traditional homebuilding methods often involve long timelines, unpredictable costs, and a high level of on-site disruption, factors that have driven many Australians to explore alternative approaches. Modular homes, which are prefabricated in controlled factory environments before being assembled on-site, are emerging as a practical solution to these challenges. The trend is not only driven by efficiency and affordability but also by a desire for sustainable living and innovative design.
As Australians continue to seek housing options that align with their lifestyle and environmental values, modular homes in Australia are gaining unprecedented popularity, redefining what modern homeownership can look like. Efficiency and Speed of Construction One of the primary reasons modular homes are gaining traction is the speed at which they can be constructed. Unlike conventional homes, where construction timelines are often extended due to weather delays, labour shortages, or logistical setbacks, modular homes are built in factories with tightly controlled schedules.
This process allows multiple components of a house to be constructed simultaneously rather than sequentially, dramatically reducing overall build time. Many homeowners report that modular homes can be completed in weeks rather than months, enabling faster occupancy and reduced
financing costs. This efficiency not only appeals to first-time buyers eager to move into their
dream homes quickly but also suits investors and developers looking to streamline project
timelines.
Cost-Effectiveness and Predictability
Cost predictability is another major advantage driving the popularity of modular homes. Traditional construction often comes with hidden expenses and unexpected overruns, leaving homeowners stressed over budget management. Modular homes, by contrast, are largely built in factory conditions with pre-negotiated material costs and streamlined processes, minimizing unforeseen expenditures.
The ability to forecast total project costs with greater accuracy makes beautiful modular homes in Australia a financially attractive option for a wide range of buyers, from young families to retirees seeking stable investment in their housing. Additionally, the efficient use of materials in factory settings reduces waste, which not only saves money but also supports more sustainable construction practices.
Design Flexibility and Customisation
Contrary to some misconceptions, modular homes are not restricted to uniform or simplistic designs. Modern prefabrication allows for significant customisation, with homeowners able to select layouts, finishes, and structural features that suit their preferences and site conditions. Architects and builders are increasingly offering modular solutions that incorporate open-plan living, energy-efficient features, and contemporary aesthetics, ensuring that modular homes can rival traditional builds in both style and functionality. This design flexibility is particularly appealing in Australia, where diverse climates and regional preferences demand adaptable home solutions. The ability to combine speed, efficiency, and personalised design has made modular homes a compelling choice for those seeking a modern living experience without compromise.
Environmental Sustainability
Sustainability has become a key consideration for Australian homeowners, and modular homes naturally align with green building principles. Factory construction minimises on-site waste, while materials can be sourced responsibly and recycled where possible. Many modular designs also integrate energy-efficient systems, including solar panels, water- saving fixtures, and advanced insulation, reducing both the environmental footprint and ongoing utility costs. As awareness of climate change and environmental responsibility grows, the eco- friendly nature of modular homes makes them an attractive alternative to conventional housing, particularly for environmentally conscious buyers who want to invest in long-term sustainable living.
Growing Acceptance and Market Expansion
Finally, the increasing popularity of modular homes can be attributed to broader acceptance within the Australian property market. Government incentives, regulatory support, and positive media coverage have helped reduce skepticism around prefabricated housing. Developers are expanding modular offerings to meet rising demand, and the success stories of high-quality, affordable modular homes have shifted public perception. In addition, the flexibility of modular
construction allows for rapid adaptation to urban infill projects, regional developments, and custom residential solutions, making it a versatile option for diverse housing needs across the country. Modular homes are gaining prominence in Australia due to a combination of speed, cost efficiency, design flexibility, environmental sustainability, and growing market acceptance. These homes address many of the challenges associated with traditional construction while offering modern, adaptable living solutions for a variety of lifestyles.
As the housing market continues to evolve and Australians increasingly prioritize efficiency, affordability, and eco-consciousness, the appeal of modular homes is set to expand further, reshaping the way people think about homeownership and construction in the 21st century. https://www.e-architect.com/articles/modular-homes-in-australia
