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NEWS

Trump’s policies and the Australian real estate market

The Trump administration’s policies are sparking debate over their potential impact on the Australian real estate market.

Sydney-based real estate agent Tina O’Connor shared her insights, highlighting the critical role confidence plays in the market. Meanwhile, a survey of leading economists conducted by the Economic Society of Australia (ESA) revealed concerns over inflation, interest rates, and slower economic growth resulting from Trump’s program. The effects are expected to ripple through global markets, including Australia.

Confidence driving local market trends

Tina O’Connor, Licensee in Charge at Ray White Annandale, noted a renewed sense of confidence among buyers, evidenced by queues at open homes and increased apartment listings in Sydney’s Inner West.

“Confidence is a really huge factor when it comes to residential real estate,” she said. While the Trump administration’s actions haven’t directly influenced buyer behaviour yet, O’Connor believes that global sentiment could play a role as economic changes take shape.

Economic Concerns and Opportunities

On the flip side, the ESA panel’s findings highlight the risks of higher US inflation and interest rates stemming from policies such as increased tariffs and corporate tax cuts. These measures could indirectly impact Australia by depressing Chinese demand for resources. However, opportunities exist for Australia to lead in clean energy production and attract international students as US-China tensions grow.

Looking ahead

Both Tina and the ESA panel agree that the effects of Trump’s policies may take time to unfold. Economists anticipate a lag before significant shifts are seen in Australia, with the latter half of 2025 potentially bringing more clarity.

“We’re not going to know how this is going to affect us until at least the first couple of weeks of February,” said Tina. She remains optimistic about the local market despite uncertainties, citing renewed confidence and steady buyer interest.

ICYMI, yesterday, Daniel Daggers spoke exclusively to Elite Agent about how he build the fourth largest estate business in the UK within just four years without spending a penny on paid advertising.

TOGETHER WITH THE ONE CONFERENCE

Dr Sarah Bell, Director of Strategic Partnerships at MRI Software, knows technology is shaking up real estate … and it’s here to stay. “Agents are showcasing their services and positioning their properties through digital content, and AI is already intermediating that interface,” she explained. As co-founder of AiRE and the brains behind RiTA, Dr Bell has seen how tools like AI can free up agents to focus on what matters: their clients.

“At the end of the day, your technology needs to help, not hinder, your connection with customers,” she said. If you’re curious about how to embrace tech while keeping it personal, don’t miss Dr Bell at The One Conference, where she’ll dive into AI, data, and winning more business.

SMART SNIPPETS

Property listings hit a seven-year high
The property market is giving buyers their biggest choice since 2017, with new listings surging 7.9% higher than the previous year. Canberra led the charge with a 22.3% increase in total listings, while Sydney wasn't far behind at 12.7%. With this flood of new properties hitting the market, experts predict we'll see price growth continue to moderate throughout 2025.

What to do when a landlord insurance claim is denied
Getting a landlord insurance claim denied can be frustrating, but it’s often preventable. Claims are typically rejected for a few key reasons: they’re for items not covered (like wear and tear or rent losses due to market conditions), the policy wasn’t valid at the time, obligations like maintenance or full disclosures weren’t met, or there wasn’t enough evidence to support the claim. So what is the best way to avoid rejection?*

Spain targets foreign buyers with proposed 100% property tax
Spain’s Prime Minister, Pedro Sánchez, has proposed a 100% tax on property purchases by non-EU residents to tackle the country’s housing crisis. The plan, part of a broader reform package, aims to curb speculative buying in hotspots like Ibiza and Barcelona, where foreign investment has driven up housing costs.

CELEBRITY HOMES

Hemsworths’ Byron Bay neighbours on the move

Tom and Emma Lane, heirs to the Oroton fashion empire and co-founders of The Farm at Byron Bay, have listed their Newrybar estate, "High View," for $10 million. Nestled in Byron Bay’s prestigious hinterland and neighbouring Liam Hemsworth's property, the 2.75-hectare estate boasts panoramic ocean views, a main residence, two villas, stables, and a resort-style pool.

MOVERS + SHAKERS

Sam Kathir launches RE/MAX Right Home
The former New Zealand property manager brings his unique expertise to Browns Plains Brisbane with a new sales and property management office. More here.

Rihann Barkley-Brown joins Adrian William
The record-holding Canterbury agent has moved to the award-winning agency's new King Street office following their 2024 REINSW Awards success. More here.

Success doesn’t rest on weekends! 
Get the latest on top agent and agency moves every Sunday with our weekly roundup in Movers & Shakers. Subscribe now.

SOUND WAVES

What’s next for LA's luxury home market?

The recent Palisades fire has had a significant impact on Los Angeles’s high-end real estate, affecting properties owned by prominent figures like Larry Ellison and Gwyneth Paltrow. The disaster has led to a massive hike in rental demand as displaced residents seek temporary housing, which is expected to drive increased interest in luxury home purchases as rebuilding begins.

Dive straight into the listen below or the deeper dive here.

Read the article from WSJ here

AGENTS ON SOCIAL

Open-for-inspection day is where agents transform into track stars, racing from one listing to another with a car full of OFI signs. It’s a mad dash to get them in the ground before the first buyer shows up … usually just as you’re straightening the last one. 🏃🏻‍♂️‍➡️🪧

Seen an Agent On Social we should include? Let us know here (email link)

Wishing you a productive day

Elite Agent is crewed by Mark Edwards, Catherine Nikas-Boulos, Rowan Crosby, Charmagne Arrubio and Samantha McLean. We aim to uplift the real estate industry by delivering forward-thinking, hype-free news and education that fosters knowledge and fuels ambition.

Stories marked with * are sponsored, including 'Together With' and the weekday 'Movers & Shakers' sections. Interested in promoting your brand to Elite Agent’s audience? Learn more at eliteagent.com/advertise.

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