Add Row 
Add 
Adelaide's December Property Listing Drop: An Alarming Trend?
The property market in Adelaide recently faced a significant downturn as new data from the REA Group indicates a staggering 61.7 percent drop in new listings in December compared to November. This places Adelaide third among the Australian capital cities for the largest decline, following Sydney and Melbourne, where declines reached 64.7 percent and 62.3 percent respectively. While this may seem concerning, context is vital.
Year-on-Year Perspective: A Dual Reality
Despite the month-over-month decline, December 2025 figures show an increase of 1.8 percent from the same time last year, outpacing the national average of 1.4 percent. This suggests recovery and a potential for resilience despite current drop-offs. Angus Moore, a senior economist at REA Group, indicated that December's performance fell in line with expectations, highlighting that a seasonal downturn typically occurs at year-end.
Regional vs Urban Listings: A Closer Look
Interestingly, listings in regional South Australia fared relatively better, with only a 13.2 percent decrease from November. Year-on-year, new listings in this segment saw a growth of 3.1 percent. This contrasts sharply with urban areas like Adelaide city itself, which experienced a total listings drop of 22.2 percent.
The Bigger Picture: Market Stability?
Even with these alarming statistics, the overall stability of Adelaide's property market shines through. Year-on-year, the total listings decreased by 8.7 percent, ranking Adelaide as one of the most stable markets alongside Sydney and Canberra, which recorded drops of 3 and 5.3 percent, respectively. In comparison, the national volume of listings fell by 12 percent.
A Tight Market: Opportunities and Challenges
Lachlan Turner, Managing Director at Turner Real Estate, points out that the market remains extremely competitive. The shortage of available homes means that sellers can secure premium results, while buyers need to be quick and well-prepared. The ongoing affordability challenges can complicate the situation, but they are overshadowed by the low property availability.
Market Predictions for 2026: What Lies Ahead?
As we look ahead to 2026, several factors are at play that will influence the property market's trajectory. The RBA kept the cash rate stable, which supports borrowing capacity, while effective government initiatives, like the expanded First Home Guarantee Scheme, continue to attract buyers, particularly in affordable segments. Experts predict moderate growth in prices ranging from 2.5 to 4 percent, though caution is advised as affordability pressures may emerge during the year.
What This Means for You: Navigating the Market
For potential buyers, acting sooner rather than later might be wise given forecasts for continued price rises in early 2026. Sellers should take advantage of the tight market conditions where well-presented properties can still achieve quick sales. The market makeup suggests that emerging suburbs may also be worth exploring as they offer better value compared to more established areas.
Conclusion: Stay Informed and Be Prepared
As Adelaide’s property landscape changes, staying informed is crucial. Subscribe to Property Newcastle to receive the latest trends, insights, and expert advice straight to your inbox. Stay ahead of the conversation and ensure you’re making informed decisions about your property journey!
Write A Comment