What investors need to know before buying this spring

While it might be cold at the moment, Spring is just around the corner, and if you’re looking at buying a property, this can be a great time.

The spring selling season has a reputation for being fast-paced, competitive, and opportunity-rich. But while more properties hit the market and inspections increase, the speed of transactions also accelerates, leaving less room for hesitation and more need for strategy.

Spring historically attracts more buyers, especially those wanting to settle before Christmas or the start of the school year. There are more listings available, but they're met with more competition, shorter decision windows, and in many cases, upward pressure on prices.

Properties move faster

Data from previous years shows a clear seasonal pattern… that even with more stock available, homes were being snapped up quicker. For investors, this has two key implications.

First, you need to be ready to move decisively. Pre-approval, research, and clear investment criteria are critical. 

Second, you may find yourself facing emotional buyers, especially owner-occupiers, who are willing to push harder or spend more to secure a property before the year wraps up.

Price growth is more than just psychology

It’s easy to assume that spring fever drives the market, but there’s also a financial side to this seasonal trend.

Spring aligns with the post-financial year period, where some buyers come armed with bonuses, tax returns, or new borrowing capacity. Lenders may also introduce spring promotions, easing the financing process for some segments of the market.

This seasonal lift in demand often shows up in higher auction clearance rates and more aggressive bidding. It’s no coincidence that many vendors aim for auction campaigns at this time of year, when the competitive spirit among buyers is strongest.

Not all markets follow the same rhythm

While the spring surge is real across much of the country, not every market is the same. Queensland, for instance, tends to maintain steadier momentum through winter. With its mild climate and appeal to interstate movers, the Sunshine State doesn’t see the same winter slowdown as Victoria or New South Wales. Investors eyeing lifestyle-driven areas or migration hotspots may find opportunities outside traditional spring timelines.

Make spring work for you

If you're planning to buy this spring, make sure you have a plan.

Be financially ready: Work with your mortgage broker and get pre-approval locked in so you can act quickly.

Do your research: Know what comparable properties are selling for and monitor days on market trends in your target suburb.

Have criteria and stick to it: With more listings available, it’s easy to get distracted. Stay focused on your goals and investment fundamentals.

Spring is a time of opportunity, but it's also a time of urgency. Those who succeed need to be prepared and responsive to the pace of the market.