As a buyer’s agent working daily in the Queensland property market, I’m constantly asked about the latest doom-and-gloom headlines predicting market crashes.
While media commentators paint broad strokes about Australia’s property market collapse, the reality on the ground tells a vastly different story – especially here in Queensland.
Recent reports make one thing clear: not all markets are equal. Queensland stands out for its resilience, growth and unique opportunities.
With these in mind, I’ve seen how focusing on micro markets, off-market opportunities and detailed regional data can give buyers the edge.
Let’s start with some facts...
While national home values experienced a slight -0.03% dip in January 2025, annual growth for the 12-months reached 4.3%.
This highlights an important lesson observed over decades in the property market: short-term statistics rarely tell the whole story.
What’s particularly interesting is the contrast between markets.
Hotspotting’s Price Predictor Index (Summer 2024–2025 Edition) suggests Perth and Regional Western Australia (WA) have moved past their boom peaks, with slowing price growth, rising listings, shifting consumer sentiment and stagnating rents – now confirmed by declining sales activity.
Meanwhile, other cities are gaining momentum. Markets that remained flat over the past two years are showing signs of revival, with improving sales pointing to future growth.
Take Darwin, for example – it has seen a sharp rise in sales over the past three quarters (373, 501, 527) and 56% of its markets are rated positively and only one in decline. Canberra is also strengthening, with 35% of its 77 markets now classified as rising and just one in decline, supported by strong quarterly sales (1304, 1523, 1870, 1766).
This divergence perfectly illustrates why treating “Australian property” as a single market is misleading.
Here’s what we’re seeing in Queensland’s micro markets.
Even within the state, different market segments are performing in distinct ways. The first home buyer market, particularly in the more affordable range, remains highly active with intense demand.
Properties in this segment are often selling quickly – if they even make it to the public listing at all.
Interestingly, while CoreLogic data suggests some market cooling, the reality on the grounds tells a different story.
There’s virtually no discounting happening in this space. Properties are frequently achieving their asking prices, with sellers confident enough to wait for the right buyer rather than lowering their prices.
However, the overall market is being weighed down by higher-end properties, rather than the everyday “mum and dad” properties, which continue to attract active buyers.
It’s the next tier up – those two or three rungs higher on the property ladder – that are taking longer to sell. At the very top end, the most expensive properties are now seeing price discounts.
Now, let’s talk about off-market real estate sales in Queensland
One of the most significant trends observed in 2025 is the increasing move toward off-market sales. Most property transactions now come through existing relationships with sales agents who share information about upcoming listings before they hit the public market.
Why is this shift happening?
For sellers, off-market sales offer:
- maintained privacy and security,
- inexpensive marketing campaigns,
- faster sales process,
- pre-qualified buyers only and
- no disruptive open homes.
For agents, it means:
- working with serious, pre-approved buyers,
- no time wasted on “tyre kickers,”
- streamlined sales process,
- reduced marketing costs and
- better efficiency in matching properties with buyers.
This also means individual buyers are missing out without the right connections.
As off-market sales become the norm, individual buyers – especially those investing from interstate – face growing challenges.
Many assume they’re seeing the full picture when scrolling through real estate portals, but in reality – some of the best properties never even make it to public listing.
This is where a buyer’s agent becomes invaluable. Beyond just finding listings, they maintain close relationships with sales agents who often share new properties privately before deciding whether to take them to market.
For buyers, this means exclusive access to homes that others never even get a chance to bid on.
The Queensland market outlook for 2025 shows promise.
Despite media negativity, Queensland’s property market remains strong, with Brisbane forecasted to grow from 9% to 14% this year. However, this growth isn’t uniform across all regions or property types.
Hotspotting highlights this resilience, showing that 56% of Greater Brisbane’s markets have positive classifications, while 31% are negative and 13% show no clear trend.
Current market observations suggest several key trends:
- continued strong demand for affordable properties,
- the increasing importance of off-market sales and
a widening gap between different market segments.
In reality, many reports rely on dated data or sweeping generalisations that don’t reflect the degrees of local markets.
While some high-end properties are seeing price corrections, entry-level and investment properties continue to attract strong competition.
Navigating today’s market requires strategy and the right network.
For buyers looking to enter the Queensland market in 2025, understanding these dynamics is crucial. The key to success lies in:
- having access to pre-market opportunities,
- understanding local market dynamics,
- being able to act quickly when opportunities arise, and
- having strong connections with key market players.
They can offer early access to properties, ensuring clients don’t miss out on prime opportunities. They also bring expert negotiation skills, helping buyers secure the right home without overpaying – something that’s particularly important when sellers remain confident in their pricing.
While media reports may paint a picture of uncertainty, the reality in Queensland is nuanced – and often more positive.
Success in this market requires looking beyond the headlines, understanding the local trends and taking a proactive approach to securing the right property.
Are you considering buying or investing in the property market on the Sunshine Coast, Hervey Bay or Southeast Queensland?
If so, I’m here to help you navigate this exciting opportunity.
At Worth Property Investing, my team and I are truly passionate about helping you make investment decisions that align with your financial objectives and lifestyle aspirations.
When you’re prepared to move forward in your property journey, I invite you to reach out for a consultation. Together, we’ll explore how a buyer’s agent can provide the expertise and connections needed to secure a quality property that meets your unique needs and goals.
Please note: This article is not to be considered financial advice and is not intended as financial advice as it does not take into account your specific circumstances. For specific financial advice, speak to your financial advisor.
