At the end of 2025, Australian property investors were hearing two very different stories.

On the one hand, we've seen strong price growth across most capital cities; rents were still painfully high for tenants, and auction clearance rates were holding up surprisingly well.

On the other hand, we were being warned about rising unemployment, sticky inflation, higher building costs, and plenty of noise about what could go wrong in 2026.

So what's really happening beneath the headlines? And more importantly, what does it mean for investors, home buyers and property markets next year?

Today, I'm joined by Dr Andrew Wilson to unpack his annual review of our housing markets for 2025 and his forecasts for 2026.

Andrew doesn't deal in hype. He deals in data, long-term trends, and the realities of how our housing markets actually work.

If you want clarity instead of clickbait, and perspective instead of panic, you'll want to stay with us.

Takeaways

· 2025 saw strong property price growth despite economic challenges.

· Interest rates and economic factors significantly influence housing markets.

· Building approvals for units increased, but house approvals faced challenges.

· Rental market showing signs of growth with low vacancies.

· Auction clearance rates are a positive indicator for future prices.

· House prices in major cities saw significant increases in 2025.

· Economic growth and job market stability support housing demand.

· Rising building costs may constrain new housing supply.

· 2026 is expected to continue the trend of property price growth.

· Affordability remains a concern, but lending practices ensure market stability.

Links and Resources:

Answer this week's trivia question here - https://www.propertytrivia.com.au/

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· Everyone wins a copy of a fully updated property report – What's ahead for property for 2026 and beyond.

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2025 Surprised Property Investors - Will 2026 Be Worse or Better? Dr Andrew Wilson

Property Investment & Wealth Creation Australia | The Michael Yardney Podcast