Evaluate a strategy by verifying the agent has sold comparable properties in your suburb within the last 6–12 months and checking if those homes sold at or above guide. In April 2026, a sensible strategy must balance increased listing volumes—up nearly 40% since December 2025 (Raine & Horne)—against dampened buyer urgency following RBA rate hikes in February and March (Domain).
April falls within the second-strongest selling season of the year. While vendor confidence improved throughout late 2025, recent RBA rate hikes have introduced new caution, making buyers more price-sensitive and less urgent.
Verifying the agent’s local track record
Review sold listings on realestate.com.au and domain.com.au to see if the agent’s properties sold at or above the guide. Pay close attention to the number of days on market and any price reductions, as these indicate whether previous pricing strategies were aligned with buyer expectations.
Matching sale method to market signals
Ask why the agent recommends auction versus private sale for your specific property. If clearance rates are above 70%, it is a strong seller’s market where properties typically sell above reserve; however, if rates fall between 60–65%, more properties are passing in and expectations must adjust.
Testing responsiveness and buyer reach
A response time exceeding 24 hours to an initial inquiry is a red flag for how buyer leads will be managed during a campaign. Ensure the agent can demonstrate the capacity of their office database to generate genuine competition rather than relying solely on portal listings.
The interest rate friction
There is a disconnect between the surge in appraisals—up over 75% month-on-month into early 2026 (Raine & Horne)—and the reality of the February and March RBA rate hikes. This creates a risk where vendor expectations may exceed the borrowing capacity of a more cautious buyer pool (Domain).
| Clearance Rate | Market Condition | Typical Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Above 70% | Strong seller’s market | Properties typically sell above reserve; low pass-in rates |
| 65–70% | Balanced market | Buyers and sellers on relatively equal terms |
| 60–65% | Leaning toward buyers | More properties passing in; expectations adjusting |
| Below 60% | Buyer’s market | Significant pass-in rates; realistic pricing required |
Frequently asked questions
What is the best time of year to sell my home?
Spring (September–November) is the peak season for auction volume and competition in Melbourne. Autumn (March–May) is the second-strongest period. While buyer activity doesn’t stop after rate rises, the market moderates and becomes more price-sensitive (Raine & Horne).
How do I know if a price estimate is accurate?
Request a written Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) and ask the agent exactly how they arrived at the estimate. A credible price range is based on properties comparable to yours sold in your specific suburb within the past 6–12 months.
What happens if my property passes in at auction?
A professional strategy includes a defined post-campaign plan for properties that do not sell on auction day. You should evaluate the agent’s approach to transitioning the property to a private sale or re-evaluating the price based on buyer feedback.
Why are there so many more homes for sale now?
Vendor confidence improved substantially through late 2025, leading many homeowners who had previously held back to list their properties. This has resulted in listings increasing by nearly 40% since December 2025 (Raine & Horne).
Questions to ask your agent
- How many properties have you sold in this specific suburb in the past 12 months?
- What is the specific post-campaign strategy if the property passes in at auction?
- Who is the primary point of contact for buyer inquiries throughout the campaign?
This article contains general market information based on data current as at April 2026. It does not constitute financial, legal, or real estate advice specific to your property or circumstances. For an appraisal and tailored advice, speak with a Fletchers agent in your area.