GOOD MORNING FROM ELITE AGENT 👋

On September 3, 1752, Britain and its empire adopted the Gregorian Calendar, skipping 11 whole days overnight and sparking riots from people who thought the government had stolen part of their lives.

It’s a reminder that change, even when it’s for the better, can feel unsettling. In real estate, whether it’s new tech, compliance updates, or shifting market rules, people don’t always welcome it straight away, which is why they need you to guide them through it.

Today’s read time: 5 minutes, 41 seconds

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AUCTION TIME

Spring off to a strong start

Spring auctions are heating up, but are you ready?

As the chill of winter fades, auction season is back, and according to Chief Auctioneer and owner of auctionWORKS, Jesse Davidson, the market’s momentum is building fast. But agents expecting 2021-style chaos may need a reality check. This spring will reward those who prepare early, price accurately, and understand their vendors’ real motivations.

Optimism returns

“August really picked up,” Jesse says, noting not just a rise in auction numbers, but a shift in sentiment. Whether its rate pauses or a sense that we’ve hit the interest rate ceiling, buyers and sellers are re-engaging.

Luxury properties are leading the charge, with five to six bidders registering on high-end homes, “an excellent sign,” he says. But not all segments are surging. The $2–$3 million middle market is “the toughest,” especially outside tightly held suburbs like Mosman. Lower-priced homes and Western Sydney stock are holding steady, while commercial auctions remain robust, especially for AAA-tenanted properties.

The spring countdown has begun

There are only 15–16 auction weekends left in the year, and Jesse warns agents if you’re not prepping now, you’re already behind.

“Spring runs out quickly,” he says. With the average campaign and settlement timeline stretching 8–10 weeks, listings not already live may struggle to settle before Christmas. “The smart agents are preparing their vendors now.”

Realistic pricing is key

The agents seeing the best results are those who set realistic price guides early and get vendor alignment. Jesse says “If the agent thinks it’s worth $2 million and the vendor wants $2.3 million, you’ve got a gap.”

When priced accurately, properties attract more buyers, leading to real competition and better outcomes. Ironically, sellers who aim high often miss out entirely. “Buyers walk away, assuming they’re not serious,” he says.

But price isn’t everything. Top agents also understand and market the seller’s deeper motivation, whether it’s upsizing, downsizing, or starting fresh after a life event. That authenticity builds buyer confidence. “There’s a huge difference between an owner who’s testing the market and one who’s genuinely ready.”

Why auctions still work

In a calmer market, auctions inject the urgency buyers now lack. “If I’m a buyer looking at three properties, but one goes to auction in three and a half weeks, I’ve got to prioritise it,” Jesse says. That deadline forces action, and for agents, it’s a powerful edge this spring.

Read the full article here.

ICYMI, yesterday we found out about the new AI rules that could impact your business.

PRICE GROWTH

House prices climb after rate cut

Australia's housing market has responded dramatically to the August interest rate reduction, with national house prices jumping 1.3 per cent in just one month. Perth leads the nation with annual growth of 12.4 per cent, while Sydney houses reached $1.68 million after 1.5 per cent monthly growth. Ray White's Chief Economist says the combination of lower mortgage rates and pent-up demand appears poised to drive continued price growth through the remainder of 2025.

BUILDING LULL

Housing approvals reveal a two-speed market

Australia's detached house approvals increased by 0.6 per cent in July 2025, while multi-unit approvals plummeted by 18.8 per cent. The country needs over 20,000 home approvals monthly to reach its target of 1.2 million new homes by 2029, but current approval rates fall short at 15,769 dwellings. Recent interest rate cuts might boost market entry, though industry experts cite construction costs, labour shortages, and complex approval processes as ongoing challenges.

UK HOUSING

UK property market shows resilience despite forecast cuts

The UK housing market has continued its steady rise, with prices increasing 3.7% in the 12 months to June. The average property value now sits at £269,000 (about $518,000 AUD) - around £9,000 ($17,300 AUD) more than a year ago. Regional differences remain pronounced, with Scotland recording the strongest growth at 5.9%, while London saw only 0.8%.

CELEBRITY HOMES

Bananas, macadamias and a waterslide: Roseanne Barr lists her Big Island ranch

Comedian Roseanne Barr has listed her 46-acre Hawaiian ranch for US$1.95M after relocating to Texas. The sprawling property on the Big Island's Hamakua Coast features a 2,716-square-foot main residence, swimming pool with waterslide, and acres of macadamia trees alongside avocados, finger limes, and bananas. The 72-year-old actress said that, given her age, the property was difficult to maintain, though she still owns a smaller property in Waimea.

MOVERS + SHAKERS

Matt Sale returns to Ray White West End

The experienced agent and auctioneer has rejoined the team where he began his real estate career eight years ago, already conducting five auctions within his first three days back. More here.

Belle Property opens new South Coast office

Sarah Ralston leads the expansion into Mollymook and Milton, bringing 20 years of industry expertise alongside associates Jonathan Free and Amy Jennings. 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.

AGENTS ON SOCIAL

Vendors tense? Buyers stalling? Turn up the music; it’s cheaper than therapy. 🎶 🎤

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

Wishing you a productive day!

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