Brisbane leads as smaller capitals diverge in winter auction trends

WATCH: Australian auction surge fuels confidence | view.com.au | 7NEWS

By Tim McDonald

Auction momentum across the smaller capitals remained steady last week, with Brisbane recording 152 auctions and a preliminary clearance rate of 66.7 percent, its strongest early result since mid-May. The result suggests that while volumes were moderate, buyer interest is holding firm across the Queensland capital.

Adelaide once again emerged as the nation's top performer, with a preliminary clearance rate of 77.5 percent, the highest of any capital city. This also marks the South Australian capital's best preliminary result since early April, underscoring continued demand in a market known for its consistency and affordability.

In Canberra, 64 homes went under the hammer, with early results showing a clearance rate of 55.3 percent. While softer than the larger cities, the ACT market remains active as winter trading conditions settle in.

Looking ahead, auction volumes are expected to remain relatively steady, with around 2,080 homes scheduled to go under the hammer nationally this week. However, activity is forecast to dip below 1,800 the following week as seasonal factors and cooler weather begin to take their usual toll on listings and buyer activity.

Auction success in Fulham SA as family favourite fetches $1.95 million

A crowd of neighbours and onlookers gathered on auction day to watch 3 Samuel Street, Fulham go under the hammer, and the result justified the excitement. The expansive, single-level residence sold for $1.95 million, confirming its place among the premier properties in Adelaide's tightly held coastal west.

Belle Property listing agent Rhys Digance said more than 60 groups inspected the home in the lead-up to the auction, with strong interest from local families. "It's a standout in the area," he said. "The buyers were drawn to the generous proportions, the flexible floorplan and the fact that it takes full advantage of the block. Being single-level just added to the appeal."

Built in 2014, the five-bedroom home offers a refined blend of luxury and liveability, with multiple indoor and outdoor living zones, a sleek stone-appointed kitchen and a dedicated study or fifth bedroom. At the rear, an oversized tiled alfresco framed by low-maintenance landscaping anchors the home's easy entertaining appeal.

"The auction had a perfect atmosphere," Digance said. "It was a great turnout, plenty of local families and neighbours, and it reflected the rarity of homes like this in Fulham."

With its close proximity to Henley Beach, quality schools and scenic open spaces, 3 Samuel Street is a blueprint for modern family living in one of Adelaide's most sought-after seaside suburbs.

Private sale in tight Perth market draws serious heat in winter chill

In a market defined by low supply and high competition, the private sale of 14 Monash Way, Abbey has proven just how far buyers are willing to go for the right property and just how much excitement a sale can generate, even without an auctioneer's hammer.

With just 4,000 properties currently listed in Perth, according to Ray White Western Australia CEO Mark Whiteman, buyers are feeling the squeeze. "Demand has surged, especially following the recent interest rate cut," Whiteman said. "We're seeing packed open homes, fierce competition and a real sense of urgency. Right now, winter is shaping up to be one of the best times to sell."

Tapping into that momentum, Ray White Stocker Preston agents Jason and Mandi Cooper launched the sale of 14 Monash Street, a coastal gem in Abbey, Busselton. Despite wild winter weather and threats of hail, over 70 people poured through the home on inspection day. "The place was packed. People were crammed into the living room, on the deck, out in the yard," Mandi said. "It felt more like a celebration than a sale."

While the property ultimately sold through private negotiation for $1.47 million, the energy rivalled that of a major auction. The buyer, an interstate house-hunter seeking a second home, flew in to secure the deal, one of four registered parties vying for the prize.

"This is what we love about real estate," Jason added. "Even without the auction format, the energy, emotion and engagement were electric."

Bulimba Queenslander sells for $1.95m ending in heartfelt group hug

A long-held Queenslander at 108 Stuart Street Bulimba's prestigious river avenues has sold under the hammer for $1.95 million, following a fast-paced and emotional auction that drew a crowd of 80 despite the rain.

Located on an elevated, north-facing 567-square-metre corner block, the charmer was offered for the first time in 45 years. Listing agent Paula Pearce of Place Bulimba said the home, in beautifully preserved original condition, had captured the imagination of families and builders alike.

"We had eight registered bidders and four actively competing on the day," Pearce said. "It's rare to find a property in this pocket with so much potential: north-facing, corner position, possible city views and just steps from Oxford Street."

Bidding opened at $1.6 million and climbed quickly without pause. The hammer eventually fell at $1.95 million to a local family planning to renovate and create their forever home. "It was a strong, competitive auction from start to finish," Pearce said. "Even in the rain, the energy was fantastic."

The home, while likely to be rebuilt, showcased charming original features like VJ walls, breezeways and high ceilings. The auction ended in an emotional embrace between the vendors and buyers, a touching moment after nearly half a century of family ownership.

"It was really special," Pearce said. "You could feel the history, and now a new chapter begins."