Interest rates on hold – What it means for 2508 & 2515 property markets
The RBA held the cash rate at 3.6% on Tuesday, noting that inflation remains sticky and the jobs market is still strong
By Ian Pepper, director of Pepper Real Estate - Agency HQ
The RBA held the cash rate at 3.6% on Tuesday, noting that inflation remains sticky and the jobs market is still strong. While the broader economy continues to adjust, the decision signals a period of stability ahead, with most economists expecting rates to stay on hold well into 2026.
For buyers and sellers in the 2508 and 2515 postcodes, this steady-rate environment is a double-edged sword — but overall, it’s a welcome one.
Across our coastal suburbs, from Helensburgh to Thirroul, we’ve seen a slight increase in available homes this spring. This modest oversupply means buyers currently enjoy more choice, particularly at the upper end of the market. Rate stability won’t immediately tighten conditions, but it does help restore confidence — something our market has been missing over the past two years of rapid increases.
For sellers, the key message is that well-priced, well-presented properties are still attracting strong enquiry, especially under $2 million. With borrowing costs no longer climbing, serious buyers are re-entering the market knowing their repayments are unlikely to rise anytime soon. This is already helping to shorten days on market for homes that meet buyer expectations on price and condition.
For buyers, steady rates make planning and budgeting far easier. Those who have been waiting on the sidelines for clarity around borrowing costs can move forward with more certainty, without the fear of a sudden rate hike impacting affordability. Suburbs with consistently strong demand — such as Helensburgh, Stanwell Park and Austinmer — are likely to see continued, steady competition as a result.
While this rate hold won’t instantly absorb the extra stock in the 2508 and 2515 corridors, it does set the stage for a more balanced and confident market through 2026. Sellers who understand current buyer sentiment and align their expectations accordingly will still achieve positive outcomes — and buyers will appreciate the rare opportunity to choose from a broader range of homes.
In short: stability helps everyone. And after the past few years of volatility, that alone is a step in the right direction for our local market.
