More Options, Lower Prices – Why Aren’t You Investing in Melbourne?

01-Jan-2025

More Options, Lower Prices – Why Aren’t You Investing in Melbourne?

When is the best time to invest? When prices are high or at their lowest?

Melbourne prices are down, listings are up, and opportunities are everywhere. This is a notable shift towards a buyer's advantage. So, let me ask you directly:

Why aren’t you seizing this moment? 
Why miss the chance to own in one of the world's most livable cities at an affordable price? This is a rare opportunity that could change your financial future.


The State of Melbourne’s Property Market in 2025

Current Market Overview

Price Adjustments: In 2024, Melbourne experienced a 2.9% decline in property prices, contrasting with an average 5.2% increase across Australia's major cities.

Increased Listings: The market has seen a surge in property listings, providing buyers with a wider selection than in previous years.

Quantitative Insights


Listings Surge: There has been a 9.5% increase in property listings year-on-year, marking the highest level of available properties since 2012. This surge provides buyers with a wider selection than in over a decade.

Rental Market Dynamics: Despite the drop in property prices, the rental market remains robust, with rental rates climbing over 9% for both houses and units within the past year.

Historical price drops from the peak in March 2022 to January 2023.

From March 2022 to January 2023, Melbourne's home prices fell by 7.9%. This was a correction after the boom in 2020 and 2021, when prices increased by 15.8%

  • - Melbourne's property market has been resilient over the past 40 years. 
  • - The decline in Melbourne was smaller than Sydney's decline, which was 6.94% from February 2022 to November 2022. 
  • - Melbourne's recovery has been less sharp than other capital cities. 
  • - Melbourne's housing market has not performed as well as other capitals in the past year or two. 

Projected price trends for the next 12 months based on current market dynamics.

In 2025, Melbourne's property market is projected to experience a notable rebound, driven by various factors influencing both demand and supply. Here’s an overview of the anticipated price trends for the next 12 months based on current market dynamics.

1. Price Increase Estimates: Recent forecasts suggest that Melbourne's median house prices could rise by approximately 3% to 6% over the next year. 

This translates to an increase of about AUD 27,630 to AUD 55,260 for the current median price of AUD 921,0001. For units, a rise of AUD 18,500 to AUD 37,020 is expected, reflecting a similar upward trend in the unit market.

2. Long-Term Outlook: According to Oxford Economics Australia, Melbourne's median house price is anticipated to reach around AUD 1.157 million by mid-2026, marking a substantial increase from the current levels. 

This growth is expected to be fueled by a resurgence in migration and economic recovery following recent downturns.

3. Market Recovery Factors: The expected price recovery is attributed to factors such as:

  • Population Growth: An increase in both interstate and overseas migration is likely to bolster housing demand. Melbourne's population is anticipated to reach 8 million by 2050, driving demand for housing.
  • Economic Stability: As confidence returns among buyers and sellers, auction clearance rates are showing strength, indicating a depth of buyers in the market.

  • Government Initiatives: Potential government assistance programs aimed at first-time buyers may enhance market participation and affordability.

Investment Opportunities

Despite recent challenges, there are significant opportunities for investors in Melbourne's property market:

Undervalued Properties: Currently, many properties are priced below replacement costs, presenting unique buying opportunities.

Family-Friendly Homes: Demand remains strong for spacious homes in established suburbs, particularly those with good access to amenities and schools.

While Melbourne presents incredible opportunities, potential investors must navigate a landscape marked by both short-term risks and long-term benefits. 

Acknowledging Short-Term Risks

Yes, new taxes and stricter rental laws may pose immediate concerns. Land taxes have risen by 5%, which can impact cash flow for property owners. Furthermore, recent reforms in tenancy laws have shifted the balance in favor of tenants, complicating property management for landlords. These changes can create apprehension among potential investors, especially those focused on short-term gains.

Long-Term Benefits

However, it is crucial to counterbalance these risks with the long-term capital growth potential that Melbourne offers.

Historically, property values in Melbourne have shown resilience and a tendency to recover from downturns.

For example, despite the recent fluctuations,
Melbourne's property values have increased by 10.6% since the onset of COVID-19 in March 2020, although they remain 4.4% below their peak in March 2022. This historical trend suggests that while short-term challenges exist, the long-term outlook remains promising.

Investors who can think beyond immediate dips may find that the long-term capital growth potential continues to make Melbourne a lucrative investment destination.
With ongoing population growth and infrastructure developments expected to drive demand, properties in well-located suburbs are likely to appreciate over time.

For Rental Investors: Melbourne is home to over 500,000 international students in need of accommodation, creating a steady stream of tenants for rental properties. This demand ensures that rental yields remain attractive, even amidst regulatory changes.


For Long-Term Investors: While recent government policies, such as increased land taxes and stricter tenancy laws, may introduce short-term challenges, they do not overshadow Melbourne’s long-term capital growth potential. 

Is Your Budget Ready?

With prices down, your budget can stretch much further.

For example, in Melbourne’s CBD, you can now buy a 2-bedroom apartment for as low as $600,000, down from $650,000 last year. This presents a unique opportunity to invest in a prime location at a more accessible price point.

Pricing Examples for Common Budgets

- For $600,000: A 1-2-bedroom apartment in Melbourne's CBD offers modern amenities and proximity to public transport.

- For $800,000: You could secure a 2-3-bedroom apartment in the desirable suburb of St Kilda, which boasts a rental yield of around 4%. This area is popular among families and young professionals due to its vibrant lifestyle and beach access.

- For $1 million: Consider a spacious 3-4-bedroom home in suburbs like Mount Waverley or Glen Waverley, where family-friendly amenities are abundant and property values are projected to appreciate as the suburbs continue to gentrify.

Projected Price Increase Over the Next 2–3 Years
YearProjected Median Property PriceExpected Increase from Current Prices
2025$650,000+$30,000
2026$700,000+$50,000
2027$750,000+$100,000

Consequences of Delaying Your Investment

Higher Purchase Prices: As shown in the table above, if you wait until 2026 to buy a property currently valued at $650,000, you could end up paying $700,000—a difference of $50,000.

Missed Rental Income: Delaying your purchase means missing out on rental income during that time. If you invest now, you can start earning rental returns immediately, which can significantly contribute to your overall investment strategy.

Increased Competition: As more investors recognize the potential in Melbourne's market, competition will intensify. This could lead to bidding wars and further inflate property prices.

Long-Term Growth Potential: By waiting, you risk missing out on the long-term capital growth that Melbourne's property market is known for. Historically, properties have appreciated significantly over time; delaying your entry could mean missing out on these gains.

Let’s Talk About You

Imagine owning a property in Melbourne’s buzzing CBD, renting it out to high-income professionals or international students, while watching its value grow year after year. Or perhaps securing a family home in a sought-after suburb, preparing for your own migration or retirement.

What’s holding you back? High interest rates? A lack of local knowledge?

That’s where I come in
. I'm here to guide you through every step, ensuring your investment journey is seamless and profitable.

Contact us today!

Time waits for no one. Melbourne’s property market is brimming with opportunities, but they won’t last forever. Explore the best properties tailored to your needs and budget. Contact me now!