02/10/2026
🚨 RATES UP — WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR YOUR PROPERTY PLANS? 🏡
The RBA has raised the cash rate by 0.25 percentage points to 4.60% today, 29 September 2026.
Is it still a good time to sell, buy, upsize or downsize?
The answer depends on your circumstances, your local market and the numbers behind your next move.
🏠 SELLERS — CAN YOU STILL SELL WELL?
Yes, selling can still make sense with realistic expectations and the right strategy. Recent Canberra market reports show easing values and more properties available, giving buyers greater choice.
Accurate pricing, strong presentation and active buyer follow-up matter. Price your property against recent comparable sales and competing listings. Waiting does not guarantee a higher sale price.
🔑 BUYERS — COULD THERE BE OPPORTUNITIES?
More choice may create room to negotiate on some properties. However, higher borrowing costs can reduce your budget. Confirm your borrowing capacity before making an offer, and keep repayments comfortably within reach.
⬆️ UP SIZING — LOOK AT THE PRICE GAP
If the home you want has become more affordable relative to your current home, moving up could be worth considering. Look at the difference between your sale and purchase prices, transaction costs and the repayments on any additional borrowing.
⬇️ DOWNSIZING — COULD IT REDUCE YOUR DEBT?
Selling and buying a less expensive home may release equity and lower ongoing costs. Calculate what you would retain after paying off your mortgage, purchasing your next property and covering moving costs.
🌱 FIRST-HOME BUYERS — PREPARE BEFORE YOU COMMIT
There may be opportunities, but affordability comes first. Review your pre-approval, maintain a savings buffer and ask your broker about assistance you may qualify for. Avoid stretching your budget based on the hope that rates will fall.
📊 INVESTORS — CHECK YOUR CASH FLOW
Review loan repayments, rental income, vacancy periods, maintenance and other holding costs. An investment should remain manageable without relying on future rent increases or capital growth.
💬 OUR VIEW
Today’s rate rise is a reason to review your plans carefully. Its full effect on local sales will take time to become clear, and Canberra, Googong and Queanbeyan do not all move in the same way.
If selling supports your next step and the numbers work, now may still be the right time for you.
Thinking of making a move? Message Hawk Real Estate Agents for a current property appraisal and a clear discussion about your options across ACT and NSW.
BUY • SELL • RENT
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General information only. Speak with your lender, broker or financial adviser about your circumstances.
