29th March 2023 / Sarah Lowry: Number of Active Homebuyers Remains High

By: Shannon Molly, News Editor, REA

Despite recent gloomy headlines about property market activity, new data shows the number of active homebuyers remains high – and they're particularly eager to purchase in certain areas.

Analysis by PropTrack of the search habits of potential buyers on realestate.com.au has shown there are plenty of suburbs where demand is elevated.

And those pockets that are either affordable, offer a scenic lifestyle, or are conveniently located near sought-after amenities are proving to be particularly popular.

"While buyer demand has softened from the record highs seen 12 months ago, the level of activity among buyers at the moment is still very healthy," PropTrack senior economist Anne Flaherty said.

In fact, it remains well above levels seen before the onset of the Covid pandemic, she pointed out.

Across the country, whether after a house in a leafy suburb or a unit close to the city, there are high numbers of would-be buyers looking for their next home, the data shows.

The Suburbs Coming Out On Top

When looking at the national suburbs with the most potential buyers per listing, it's clear there are a few cities where those in search of a home are particularly eager.

"Across Australia, the suburbs seeing the highest number of prospective buyers per listing for sale tend to be in scenic, outer suburban areas, with good access to transport and retail amenity," Ms Flaherty said.

Four suburbs in Greater Melbourne make the top 10 list for houses (Kangaroo Ground, Gruyere, Belgrave South and Warrandyte South), while another three are in the top 10 list for units (Croydon South, Seaholme and Albert Park).

"In Victoria, the suburbs most popular with those looking to buy houses are close by the metro-regional fringe, with the outer east and Mornington Peninsula dominating," Ms Flaherty said.

"Among those looking to buy units, however, the most in demand suburbs are spread across the city."

Buyers Keen for City Convenience

Digging down into the state lists, it's clear that many Aussies haven't abandoned the desire to be near the centre of the action.

During the course of the Covid pandemic, a number of inner-city suburbs in the major capitals saw something of an exodus of locals, but with tight restrictions and painful lockdowns now a thing of the past, a pad close to the CBD is back in favour.

Lifestyle Amenities Still in Favour

Being close to the water, dining and entertainment, or nature will always be popular, and recent market jitters haven't changed that.

For an up-to-date market appraisal of your home, please contact your local Fletchers website.