Auction insights
The early auction season has demonstrated positive momentum compared to January with clearance rates in February showing further improvement to 66.7 per cent. This is in line with results in 2023, however far below the two year high of February 2024 which achieved 73.9 per cent. Looking ahead we may see greater buyer confidence influenced by the latest interest rate reduction and expectation of further compression during 2025.
The early auction season has demonstrated positive momentum compared to January with clearance rates in February showing further improvement to 66.7 per cent. This is in line with results in 2023, however far below the two year high of February 2024 which achieved 73.9 per cent. Looking ahead we may see greater buyer confidence influenced by the latest interest rate reduction and expectation of further compression during 2025.
Bidder participation reflects typical seasonal patterns with registered bidders averaging 3.9 per auction in February, up from 3.7 in January. Active bidder numbers have stabilised at 2.5, showing consistency from late 2024. These figures represent a small reduction from the peaks seen in early 2024 but remain indicative of competitive market conditions as we enter the traditionally active autumn selling season.
Ray White Group’s sales figures demonstrate a strong recovery in February, with unconditional sales reaching $7.1 billion. This represents a significant 40 per cent increase from January’s seasonal low of approximately $5.1 billion, indicating the market’s swift return to activity following the traditional holiday period slowdown.
While February’s result remains below the exceptional performance seen in late 2024, when monthly sales exceeded $9 billion, it compares favourably to February 2023 and aligns closely with February 2024 figures. This positive trajectory reflects both sustained price growth and increasing transaction volumes as market activity normalises.
The February performance suggests robust underlying demand despite affordability challenges in many markets. With interest rates now beginning their downward cycle, this momentum appears well-positioned to continue through the autumn selling season. The substantial month-on-month improvement highlights growing market confidence following the first interest rate reduction in over three years.
