The latest ABS figures show inflation remains stubborn, with CPI sitting at 3.8 percent annually and core inflation at 3.4 percent. Both are still above the RBA’s target range, and the likelihood of another rate rise by May has increased.
 

What does that mean locally?
 

In Caringbah South, we’re seeing a clear shift from momentum-driven results to strategy-driven results. Earlier in the cycle, strong buyer competition was doing a lot of the heavy lifting. Now, the properties achieving premium prices are the ones positioned correctly from day one, priced strategically, and marketed with intent.
 

Buyer activity is still solid. There are qualified buyers in the market and properties are selling. However, urgency has cooled slightly. Buyers are more selective and borrowing capacity is tighter. When rates rise, that capacity tightens again. That directly impacts what buyers can stretch to on auction day.
 

The opportunity right now is timing. We are in a balanced window where stock levels remain relatively controlled and competition is manageable. If rates move again and sentiment turns more negative in the media, confidence can shift quickly. That tends to favour buyers, not sellers.
 

For homeowners in Caringbah South considering a move this year, the next few months present a genuine opportunity to transact before conditions potentially become more restrictive.
 

If you’d like an updated opinion on your property and how it would sit in the current environment, I’m always available for a confidential conversation.