The narrative of a national slowdown is failing to reflect what’s happening on the ground in Brisbane, where housing demand continues to outpace supply and drive strong price growth.
New data shows Brisbane dwelling values have surged 85.3% over the past five years, with both houses and units rising approximately 20% in the past 12 months alone, equating to roughly $150,000 in added value. This sharply contrasts with Sydney, where values have grown just 5.3%, and Melbourne at 4%, with Melbourne forecast to decline by up to -6% this year.
Brisbane, meanwhile, is still projected to grow by a further 7–11% in 2026.
Supply Crisis Driving Brisbane Growth
At the core of Brisbane’s resilience is a severe housing undersupply. Total listings remain at roughly 50% below the long-term average, while escalating construction costs—such as plumbing materials rising by 39%—continue to delay or prevent new developments from reaching completion.
Rental conditions further highlight the imbalance. Vacancy rates have tightened to just 0.9%, while rents have increased 6.7% annually, reinforcing strong investor interest.
“In simple terms, if you own a rental in Brisbane, it will rent,” Lauren Jones says. “With ongoing policy uncertainty ahead of the May budget, many investors are acting now to secure current tax benefits.”
Brisbane Buyer’s Agent 2026 Insights
Despite conflicting media coverage detailing a national slowdown, our on the ground insights as Brisbane buyer’s agents tell a more consistent story of April 2026.
Competition remains particularly strong in the sub-$1 million market, where first home buyers continue to stretch their budgets (often unsuccessfully) against seasoned investors and buyer’s agent-backed clients.
While global uncertainty, a recent RBA cash rate of 4.1%, and seasonal slowdowns from Easter and school holidays have caused a temporary dip in momentum, well-positioned properties are still transacting quickly.
“Entry-level homes and properties with strong fundamentals are still moving fast,” Lauren Jones says. “It highlights how important it is to purchase assets that don’t rely on peak demand to perform and can weather tougher market conditions.”
Shift in Market Dynamics Creating Opportunity
A notable shift is emerging on the supply side. Selling agents are becoming increasingly motivated, with repeated outreach and a rise in pre-market and off-market opportunities.
“Our team is seeing the same properties being circulated multiple times, and we’re receiving direct, unprovoked calls from agents offering access before listings go live,” Jones said. “That level of proactivity from agents hasn’t been as common in tighter conditions.”
Long-Term Growth Backed by Infrastructure
Looking ahead, Brisbane’s growth is further underpinned by major infrastructure tied to the 2032 Brisbane Olympic Games. Key projects across the Victoria Park and Gabba precincts are already underway, marking the beginning of a multi-year transformation of the city.
This ‘Olympic halo effect’ is expected to drive sustained demand, investment, and population growth in the lead up to 2032.
With an abundance of online information available, industry professionals stress the importance of relying on credible, local insights.
“There is so much information readily available online about homebuying and property investment, which I advise you to make use of,” said co-agent Jessy Clifton. “Just be careful which sources you refer off. I suggest the works of reputable, local experts only.”
About Lauren Jones, Brisbane’s Leading Buyer’s Agent
Lauren Jones the principal of Lauren Jones Buyers Agency, a fully licensed agent, and Qualified Property Investment Advisor (QPIA®.) She has played a pivotal role in the Real Estate and Financial Services sectors since 2013.
With over 400 purchases under her belt, Lauren focuses on selecting properties that will outperform Brisbane’s market. She does this through data analysis and understanding the investment grade fundamentals of property. She also specialises in long term investment acquisition and achieving a superior rate of capital growth.
Being a multi-property owner and investor herself, Lauren understands property as more than just an asset, but as a vehicle of wealth. With her long-term mindset and extensive knowledge of property, Lauren aims to work with her clients over the long term.