Leveraging equity involves using the existing value in your current property to fund the deposit and associated costs of purchasing another. As of December 2025, this is a common strategy for Melbourne homeowners aiming to expand their property investments.
In Melbourne, particularly within the Eastern Suburbs where Fletchers has a long history, the process typically begins with a property valuation to determine your available equity. Currently in Melbourne, with a median dwelling value around $823,495, many homeowners have substantial equity. Sellers considering this strategy often prepare their property for sale to maximise its value – typical preparation costs in 2026 range from $2,000 to $8,000 for styling and $500 to $1,500 for professional photography. A successful sale, facilitated by a well-executed marketing campaign (typically $3,000-$8,000), releases the equity. The standard sales process, including a 4-6 week campaign period and a 30-60 day settlement timeframe, allows time to secure a new property. It’s important to note that agent commission in Melbourne suburbs generally falls between 1.5-2.5%. Buyers in 2026 continue to favour properties with strong presentation and renovation potential, impacting sale prices and therefore equity release.
Effectively utilising equity requires careful planning and understanding of the current Melbourne property market to optimise your investment potential.