As we move further into 2026, the Perth property market is entering a sophisticated new phase. After several years of record-breaking activity, the conversation has shifted from “Will prices go up?” to “How do we navigate these new highs?”

At Holdsworth Real Estate, we believe the defining narrative of this year will be shaped by three critical pillars: Affordability, Accessibility, and Availability. Understanding how these three factors interact is the key to successfully buying, selling, or investing in the current climate.

A Look Back: The Momentum of 2024 and 2025

To understand where we are going, we must look at the extraordinary trajectory of the last 24 months. Perth has transitioned from being Australia’s “hidden gem” to its most consistent performer.

  • Houses: In 2024, the median house price saw a staggering 25% increase, followed by a further 12% rise in 2025.
  • Units: Not to be outdone, the unit market surged 21.7% in 2024 and jumped another 18% last year.

This cumulative growth has fundamentally changed the entry requirements for the Perth market. Buyers today are navigating a landscape where deposits need to be larger and mortgage commitments are more significant than ever before. For those looking to “upsize,” the gap between their current home and their dream property has widened, requiring a more strategic approach to equity and financing.

1. Affordability: The Natural Market Brake?

Typically, when affordability declines, you expect to see demand cool and price growth level off. However, Perth’s market is currently defying traditional gravity. While it is undeniably harder for first-home buyers to save that initial deposit, the underlying desire for West Australian real estate remains robust.

We are seeing a shift in how people buy. Rather than waiting years to save a traditional 20% deposit, savvy buyers are looking for alternative pathways to bridge the gap.

2. Accessibility: The Role of Government Incentives

This is where the second “A”—Accessibility—comes into play. To combat affordability pressures, state and federal governments have maintained a suite of incentives designed to keep the dream of homeownership alive.

Current schemes include:

  • The $10,000 First Home Owner Grant (FHOG): Specifically for those building or buying new.
  • The 5% Deposit Scheme: Allowing eligible buyers to avoid Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI).
  • Keystart Options: Providing low-deposit loans and shared equity opportunities.
  • Stamp Duty Concessions: Essential for reducing the upfront “friction costs” of a purchase.

The Holdsworth Insight: While these schemes are fantastic for helping buyers get a “foot in the door,” they also act as a floor for the market. By making it easier to enter the market, these incentives maintain a steady stream of demand, which in turn supports current price levels. It is a delicate balance that is keeping the Perth market moving despite economic headwinds.

3. Availability: The Inventory Challenge

Perhaps the most significant driver for 2026 is the third “A”—Availability. While people are eager to buy, finding a property remains a challenge.

In the latter half of 2025, we saw new listings for established homes fall significantly below long-term averages. Properties are selling almost as fast as they hit the market, which has kept active listings at historic lows. By the end of December 2025, active listings in Perth fell to below 2,000.

This scarcity has triggered the return of FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out). Our team is seeing intense competition at home opens, often resulting in multiple offers within days of a property going live. This imbalance—where demand far outstrips supply—is the primary engine driving price growth into 2026.

Strategy for 2026: What Should You Do?

If you are waiting for a “crash” or a significant “cooling” to enter the market, the current data suggests that the supply shortage may prevent that for the foreseeable future.

  • For Buyers: Precision is your best friend. Get your pre-approvals in place, understand which government grants you qualify for, and be ready to move decisively when the right property appears.
  • For Sellers: You are in a position of significant leverage. With listings under 2,000 across the metro area, your property is a scarce commodity.
  • For Investors: The tight supply in the sales market is spilling over into the rental market, ensuring high yields and low vacancy rates.

At Holdsworth Real Estate, we specialize in navigating these complex market dynamics. We don’t just list properties; we help our clients understand the “why” behind the numbers.