As we head into the WA Day long weekend and the official beginning of winter, it’s not just the weather that is changing…the market is shifting too.
Over the past few weeks, we’ve written about some early signs of change and we’re now seeing those patterns become more established.
Stock levels continue to rise, with REIWA reporting approximately 5,100 properties currently for sale; a 12.2% increase compared to this time last year. At the same time, the pace of the market is easing slightly, with days on market beginning to extend and buyers taking a little longer to make decisions
It’s a noticeable shift.
Earlier in the cycle, many homeowners were confidently buying before selling, reassured by strong conditions and quick turnaround times. That confidence is starting to recalibrate.
More buyers are now finding themselves wanting to align both sides of the transaction, selling and buying, at the same time.
As a result, we’re seeing a clear re-emergence of ‘subject to sale’ offers.
These types of offers were rarely considered not long ago, when competition was high and sellers could prioritise clean, unconditional terms. Now, with greater uncertainty and more choice in the market, flexibility is returning.
For buyers, this creates a pathway forward.
For sellers, it introduces a more nuanced decision.
‘Subject to sale’ offers can unlock genuine, motivated buyers, but they also come with timing dependencies that need to be carefully assessed.
From our perspective, it’s not about whether these offers are good or bad; it’s about how they’re structured, assessed and negotiated.
This is where experience matters.
Understanding:
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the strength and readiness of the buyer’s current property
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how that property is positioned in the market
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realistic timeframes for achieving a sale
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and how to protect the seller and help the buyer throughout the process
…can make all the difference between a smooth transaction and a drawn-out one.
We’re having more conversations with clients around planning their next move, whether that’s preparing their home earlier, considering bridging options or structuring offers to create greater certainty. These conversations are tailored to each client’s particular circumstances.
If you’re thinking about your next move and wanting to balance buying and selling, it’s a conversation worth having sooner rather than later.
As always, we’re here to help you work through the options that will enable you to move forward with support, confidence and ease.
