08/10/2026
Spring arrived in September, but the property market stayed in a cooler mood. Cotality’s national Home Value Index fell 1.1% over the month, the sixth decline in a row, leaving values 5.2% below their March peak. Every capital except Darwin recorded a fall, and a fourth rate hike from the RBA late in the month added another layer of caution.
For investors with a long-term view, this is the kind of market that rewards preparation. Stock levels are up, homes are taking longer to sell, competition at auction is thin and gross rental yields have climbed to their highest level since 2019. Buyers are firmly back in the driver’s seat.
Here’s what moved in September and what it could mean for your next move.
Read the full September 2026 Market Smart. Link in the comments.