Uncertain auction market still full of opportunities

We scheduled 1,208 auctions, an 8 per cent year-on-year decline, and conducted 490 auctions, resulting in a clearance rate of 73.6 per cent. There was a noticeable increase in properties selling prior to auction, along with a rise in withdrawn auctions. In some weeks, these combined factors accounted for approximately 50 per cent of all scheduled auctions.

Interestingly, our regional markets experienced consistent growth, averaging 2.7 registered bidders per auction and achieving a clearance rate of 67 per cent, an 8.6 per cent year-on-year increase.

In contrast, consumer confidence in metro markets was more affected. We recorded an average of 3.1 registered bidders and 1.9 active bidders per auction, both down 25 per cent.

Given the uncertainty surrounding external factors influencing market conditions, we anticipate this environment may become the “new normal” for the foreseeable future. Importantly, this market continues to present fair opportunities for both buyers and sellers.

While bidder numbers have not reached the highs seen in 2025, clearance rates remain healthy, and we can still generate strong competition at auction. For buyers, listing levels remain solid, providing an excellent opportunity, particularly for those with finance approval, to secure a property prior to auction.