Why it’s the weakest auction market since 2020 – and what spring may bring
Auction clearance rates in Sydney and Melbourne have hit their lowest levels since 2020, signaling a cooling property market. While the market shows signs of stabilizing, experts suggest that sellers must adjust their price expectations to match current buyer demand.
Why it matters
The property market is a key indicator of economic health in Australia, and declining clearance rates often precede broader shifts in housing affordability and investment.
Analysis Property News Auctions Why it’s the weakest auction market since 2020 – and what spring may bring Elizabeth Redman Updated July 14, 2026 — 3:45pm , first published 11:59am
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Share A A A The monthly auction clearance rate has hit its weakest level since 2020 but there are signs the market is starting to stabilise.
But that doesn’t mean prices are set to stop falling soon, only that home sellers are starting to understand that they can’t hold out for yesterday’s prices if they want to sell.
There’s also the seasonal effect of a drop in supply of homes for sale over winter, at the same time as there has been a drop in demand from home buyers, which means the recent steadying is not guaranteed to continue in spring.
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