Spring Selling Season: Low Stock, High Demand

Spring has statistically always been one of the busiest seasons in real estate. This year, the landscape looks a little different with more buyers out looking for their next home, the number of properties available for sale remains well below historic levels. For homeowners considering a move, this imbalance between supply and demand creates a rare window of opportunity.

A Market Where Buyers Compete, Not Sellers
Across Perth’s western suburbs, buyer enquiry is as strong as ever, yet there simply are not enough homes to meet the demand, with just 2,981 homes for sale in the entire Perth metro area. More specifically there is just 17 properties (from apartments to homes) available for sale, in all of Cottesloe. These numbers are lower than the same period last year, and last year we were also reflecting on low stock levels. This shortage of quality stock means buyers are competing harder, often leading to quicker decisions, firmer offers, and, in some cases, record-setting results.
In suburbs like Cottesloe, Swanbourne, Peppermint Grove, and Mosman Park – buyers continue to seek all manner of residences, from family homes and lifestyle residences, to lock-and-leave downsizer properties. With so little available, well-presented properties are standing out and attracting intense interest.

Why Buyers Are Motivated This Spring
There is currently a buyer expectation that more properties will come to market as the weather warms up – but many analysts are not so sure. There is a feeling that many people who needed to sell (who had been holding property waiting for prices to rise) did so during the COVID burst. And although there are always going to be reasons for people to sell (and buy) there doesn’t seem to be a driving influencer to facilitate a mindset of people wanting to sell/trade/buy. When prices are falling or rapidly rising, the motivation to act creates the movement – but this is what Perth has already been through, and many now think we are in cruise mode.
The tightness in the stock, however, can then trigger price rises, and this then becomes the ‘influencer’ and motivator for people to sell (like in the Covid market).
In a low stock market, sellers can also be more particular about the terms of the sale, with reference to settlement times, rent-backs, conditions to sell only if they can secure their next property – all outside of price negotiations.

Family Timelines
As many families prefer to buy in spring so they can move and settle before the start of the new school year. This creates a sense of urgency that often translates into stronger offers and fewer conditions.

Lifestyle Reset
The longer days, warmer weather, and fresh energy of spring inspire people to act on lifestyle changes they may have been considering over winter. Homes with gardens, outdoor entertaining spaces, or proximity to the coast feel especially appealing.

Downsizer Decisions
The one section of the market that seems to be independent of prevailing market conditions effecting stock levels – are the sellers who are wishing to downsize and change their ‘property’ lifestyle. These people are usually making decisions to sell and buy, based on their own personal life situation – and not what’s going on in the market. Statistics show, that more coastal/lifestyle properties are sold during the spring/summer months – being the time that these people swing into action. This can often also lead to some great (long-held) family homes hitting the market over the next few months – so there may be some relief in the family residence stock levels lifting a little.

Interstate and International Interest
Interstate and international relocations are typically planned around the Christmas and New Year period meaning these buyers are needing to look now to secure a home for when they move to Perth so that the kids can get settled before they start school and the professionals can settle in before starting the new role – so these buyers also add to what can be a difficult and dynamic few months.

Optimism in the Air
Spring traditionally signals new beginnings, and in property, that optimism matters. Buyers tend to make more decisive moves, spurred on by competition and the natural feeling that this is “the right time” to secure their next chapter.

How buyers can secure a home in the competitive spring market
If you’re looking to buy this spring season, then think of the phrase ‘Luck is when preparation meets opportunity.’ You will want to be prepared to ensure you’re ready to grab the opportunity when it presents itself. Here are some things you can prepare beforehand.

Get your finances ready.
Having pre-approval and your finances in order shows sellers your serious and allows you to make a strong offer.

Building relationships with local agents.
The best opportunities are often shown to the agents hot buyers first. By making your requirements known, they can tell you about off market and pre-market properties early allowing you to get ahead of the curve.

Be decisive but informed.
Homes are moving quickly with median selling days being just 11 days. Do your research on comparable sales before attending inspections so your confident in making swift, informed offers when the right property comes up.

Consider Stronger Terms, Not Just Price.
Sellers value certainty. Offering flexible settlement dates, larger deposits, or fewer conditions can make your offer more attractive than one that’s higher in price but less secure like an offer subject to sale.

Think laterally.
Be open to different streets or property types that still meet your lifestyle needs. A flexible approach broadens your options and reduces the chance of being priced out.

Maximising the Conditions
For sellers, timing and presentation are everything. Bringing your property to market this spring means launching at a moment when buyers have limited choice but strong intent. Styling, strategic marketing, and professional guidance make a significant difference in ensuring your home captures attention and competition.
Some sellers are also choosing a discreet off-market strategy—testing demand while maintaining privacy. Others are going to full campaigns to maximise buyer competition. Both approaches are proving effective when handled strategically.

Why Early Movers Have the Edge
The strongest results are often achieved by those who act early in the spring season before more homes arrive on the market. With demand running high and supply remaining tight, sellers can position themselves to achieve outstanding outcomes—often on their own terms. Buyers just don’t want to take the gamble of letting an opportunity pass by in the hope another home will soon present itself. So, if you’re selling Sell and if you’re buying Buy.