Downsizing involves reducing the size of your home, often to suit a changing lifestyle. A common consideration for Melbourne homeowners is whether to remain within their current suburb or explore new areas following the sale.
As of December 2025, many Melbourne sellers, particularly in the Eastern Suburbs, choose to stay local when downsizing. This is often driven by established social networks, familiarity with local amenities – schools, healthcare, and transport – and a desire to remain close to family. The property selling process in Melbourne currently involves a typical campaign length of 4-6 weeks, with buyer inspections usually spanning 2-4 weeks. During this period, presentation is key; buyers in 2026 strongly favour properties with good natural light and renovation potential. Downsizing within the same area can simplify the transition, allowing sellers to leverage their existing knowledge of the market. However, it’s important to realise that demand within popular Eastern Suburbs like Balwyn and Doncaster can mean competitive pricing, and a well-executed marketing campaign – typically costing between $3,000 and $8,000 – is crucial. Fletchers’ multi-lingual agents are particularly adept at navigating these markets. Agent commission currently ranges from 1.5-2.5% of the sale price.
Ultimately, the decision to stay or relocate is personal, but understanding the local market dynamics and the typical Melbourne sales process is essential when considering your options.