Harpers Market Update – Autumn In Full Swing
The Southern Highlands market continues to show a clear shift in buyer behaviour as we move deeper into April.
After a strong start to the year, we’re now seeing a more measured pace across inspections and online enquiries. This isn’t a negative – it’s a recalibration. Buyers are still active, but they’re more considered, more selective, and far more price-aware than they were even 6–8 weeks ago.
What We’re Seeing Right Now
Buyer enquiries have softened slightly week-on-week
Open home numbers are holding, but urgency has reduced
More buyers are taking a ‘watch and wait’ approach
Serious buyers are still transacting – but only when value aligns
From a macro perspective, ongoing cost-of-living pressures, interest rate uncertainty, and broader economic noise are all playing into confidence levels. As a result, the pool of ‘aspirational’ buyers has thinned, leaving a more motivated core group who are either upsizing, downsizing, or making lifestyle-driven moves.
The Key Takeaway
The market hasn’t dropped – it’s become more honest.
Pricing is now critical. Properties that are aligned with buyer feedback are still attracting strong interest and, in many cases, competitive tension. Those that are perceived to be above market are sitting longer and requiring adjustment.
Harpers In The Market
While conditions have tightened slightly, strong results are still being achieved with the right strategy.
A standout result for the team this month was the sale of 545 Inerary Road, Paddys River, which transacted at $6,350,000 – a clear indication that premium lifestyle properties continue to perform when presented and positioned correctly.
We’re also proud to share that Jacob McKinnon has been awarded Agent of the Year for both Mittagong and Bowral for the third consecutive year, reinforcing Harpers’ position at the forefront of the Southern Highlands market.
What This Means For Sellers
Strategy matters more than ever.
We’re advising our clients to:
Launch with intent – first impressions are everything
Price in line with current feedback, not last year’s peak
Create competition early (off-market → pre-market → on-market)
Be open to adapting quickly based on buyer response
The days of ‘set and forget’ campaigns are behind us – this is an active, hands-on market.
What This Means For Buyers
There is an opportunity – but only for those prepared to act.
We’re seeing:
Increased negotiation ability on certain properties
More time to conduct due diligence
Less emotional competition compared to earlier in the year
However, the best homes – particularly lifestyle, acreage, and turnkey properties – are still moving quickly when priced correctly.
Harpers Insight
At Harpers, we’re continuing to focus on creating momentum through tailored campaigns, strong media, and clear communication between buyers and sellers.
The gap between ‘on the market’ and ‘sold’ is no longer luck – it’s execution.
If you’re considering selling or would like an updated view on your property in the current market, we’re always happy to have a confidential conversation.
Jacob McKinnon
Director
Harpers Realty