We’ve noticed changes Australia-wide, and Omar, our Queensland-based Buyers Agent, has put together this article looking back at 2025 and sharing his forecast for 2026 in Brisbane.
Whilst much of the focus remains on Brisbane’s metropolitan market, it is also important to recognise the changes happening on the outskirts of Australia’s major cities. This is especially evident in regional Queensland and in the country’s more affordable lifestyle corridors. These areas were often overlooked in previous cycles. They are now attracting buyers who want value, space and long-term growth opportunities. This reflects a broader national shift toward decentralisation.
2025 Highlights
This year saw strong activity across Brisbane, with buyers favouring properties that balance lifestyle and investment potential. Similar patterns appeared in outer-ring regions across Australia. Towns and semi-rural communities on the edge of major cities gained renewed interest as improved infrastructure, better transport and lifestyle appeal made them realistic alternatives to inner-city living. This shift is not as strong as the momentum in Brisbane’s inner and middle rings. It still reflects a broader national move toward more flexible living options.
Key trends include
- Increased unit demand: With detached homes becoming less affordable in certain suburbs, many buyers have turned to units for their affordability and access to prime locations. Housing demand and unit demand are both strong, but neither is overpowering in any one suburb, with demand fluctuating depending on the area. For example, in New Farm, the average house price this year sat at $2,100,000, compared with $912,500 for units, with rental costs increasing by 1.41% for houses and 4% for units. In West End, houses averaged $950,000 and units $820,000, yet rental prices still increased by 6.38% for houses and 8.7% for units, reflecting strong tenant demand. Across Brisbane, average rental growth sits at approximately 5.466% for houses and 6.155% for units.
- Turnaround times: Properties in high-demand suburbs sold faster than in previous years, often within weeks of listing.
- Savings and budgeting: Buyers demonstrated strategic planning, focusing on securing properties that align with long-term goals rather than chasing immediate returns.
Across the outskirts of Australia’s capitals, a similar emphasis on affordability has led to increased interest in townhouses and compact homes. These areas, while historically quieter, are now benefiting from population spillover as buyers chase value without sacrificing essential amenities.
2026 Forecast: What Buyers Can Expect
Looking ahead, Brisbane’s property market is expected to remain dynamic, with several factors shaping the landscape:
- Sustained interstate migration and population growth: This will continue to drive demand, particularly in inner-city and well-connected suburbs.
- Limited new supply: In key areas will support price growth, making strategic property selection increasingly important.
- Investment vs lifestyle decisions: Many buyers choose standalone homes for lifestyle benefits, whilst units and townhouses in high-growth corridors often deliver stronger capital growth. Given the fast-moving nature of the market, having a Buyer’s Agent on your side can help navigate fluctuating demand and secure the right property.
More broadly, the outer regions of Australia are expected to continue benefiting from infrastructure-led growth. Areas positioned near new transport links, industrial hubs or expanding employment clusters may see value uplift as affordability pressures push more buyers outward. Whilst these markets don’t always match the pace of metropolitan centres, they offer compelling opportunities for long-term investors seeking diversification.
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At Moove, we help buyers make informed, data-driven decisions to achieve both lifestyle and financial goals.
At Moove we can:
- Analyse market and suburb fundamentals
- Identify growth trends and rental demand
- Tailor property recommendations to your financial and lifestyle priorities
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Key Takeaways
Brisbane’s property market is evolving. Whilst lifestyle-focused buyers may prefer standalone homes, strategic properties, particularly units in high-demand areas, are increasingly delivering strong returns. Housing and unit demand remain robust but can fluctuate depending on the suburb, so understanding local dynamics is essential
It is an active and fast-moving market, so having a Buyer’s Agent on your side can be a game-changer. Planning ahead, understanding trends, and leveraging expert guidance are key to navigating 2026 successfully
For those also considering the outskirts of Australia’s fast-growing regions, the message is similar. Opportunities exist, but success depends on knowing where infrastructure, affordability, and demand trends intersect. With the right insights from a Buyer’s Agent, you can uncover value both within Brisbane and beyond.
