There’s been a little less urgency around the property market this week, which is perhaps no surprise. We’re right in the middle of the school holidays and, between the Grand Final, the Royal Show and the long weekend, there’s been plenty competing for everyone’s attention.
But there is also a broader shift happening. Buyers are taking more time, considering their options carefully and, with more properties to choose from, feeling less pressure to make an immediate decision. This week’s further increase in interest rates will only add to that considered approach, as households factor borrowing costs and the broader costs of living into their decisions.
Interestingly, we’re also noticing buyers asking questions about what a home will cost to live in: solar, orientation, insulation, energy efficiency and other sustainability features are increasingly part of the conversation.
That observation was reinforced by The Efficiency Edge, a new Real Estate Institute of Australia (REIA) and Cotality report looking at the growing importance of home energy performance. One of its WA case studies was right here in Fremantle, where a three-bedroom townhouse sold for $1.555 million in April — around 22% above the comparable townhouse median — with buyer feedback identifying sustainability as a significant factor in the decision to purchase.
For sellers, it’s another reminder that buyers are looking beyond beautiful presentation. In a more considered market with increased costs of living, understanding and communicating the practical benefits of your home, including how comfortable and economical it is to live in, can be an important part of the story.
If you’re thinking about selling this spring, or simply wondering how your home might be viewed by today’s more considered buyer, we’re always happy to have a conversation. Sometimes knowing what buyers are looking for and what improvements are worth investing in before you come to market can make all the difference.
On a personal note, White House Property Partners has been named a finalist for Large Agency of the Year at the 2026 REIWA Awards for Excellence, and a finalist in the Business & Professional Services category at the 2026 Fremantle Chamber of Commerce Business Awards, with our Director Stefanie Dobro also named a finalist for Business Person of the Year. Several of our team were also recently recognised at the REIWA Awards Ball, celebrating the best of our industry. Of note, Connie Handcock and Stefanie Dobro were both recognised in the Top 1% of Agents in Western Australia.
These nominations and acknowledgements reflect the standard of service, care and results our team strives to deliver for our clients every single day. And while our focus is always on achieving the best results for our clients, we are grateful to be acknowledged by both our industry and our local business community for the standards we set and the work that we do.
Thank you to our wonderful clients, team and community for your continued support.
If you are considering a move or would like to discuss any property related matter, please reach out. We are here to help.
