Market Update Edition 18

As we move through September, the property market continues to show positive momentum. Cotality has recorded a 14.8% week-on-week increase in auction activity, while the National Home Value Index has risen by 0.7% this month. On top of that, the rental market has seen a national increase of 0.5%, delivering encouraging news for landlords and prospective investors alike. In this fortnight’s update, we’ll unpack key Sydney property market insights and explore simple ways to make your home more adaptable for family living.

Planning for the Future –
Creating Family Friendly Spaces

Creating family-friendly spaces goes beyond just functionality—it’s about weaving together comfort, style, and adaptability to cater to the diverse needs of every member of your household. Your home should grow with you, shifting as your family’s activities and needs evolve.

Start by focusing on the heart of the home: shared spaces like the living room, kitchen, and backyard. These areas should foster connection, flexibility, and flow. For example, opt for modular seating in the living room that can be rearranged effortlessly for movie nights, family gatherings, or a cozy spot for reading. Layer in soft rugs for comfort and incorporate smart storage solutions like built-in shelves and couch storage to keep clutter at bay while maintaining a sleek, streamlined look.

In the kitchen, consider an open-plan layout with an island bench that doubles as a casual dining spot or homework station. To ensure durability, choose stain-resistant fabrics and washable paint, and opt for rounded furniture edges for safety.

Storage is key—multi-purpose furniture like ottomans with hidden storage or nesting tables can help save space without compromising style. And don’t forget to carve out quiet zones for reading or study, offering family members a peaceful retreat when needed.

Ultimately, a family-friendly home is one that is able to evolve, reflect your unique style, and nurture the needs of every household member.

Sydney Property Market Insights

Sales Market Snapshot
As expected, September has kicked off the spring selling season with strong market activity. Cotality’s National Home Value Index rose by 0.7% this month – the strongest monthly gain since May 2024. Out of the Australian capitals, Sydney had the second strongest monthly growth of 0.8%, bringing the median home value to $1,224,341.

For the week ending 14 September 2025, Cotality reported that 914 properties went to auction in the Sydney region, the highest volume in the past 15 weeks. This time last year 872 Sydney properties were taken to auction, reflecting an increase in positive market sentiment from both buyers and sellers this year. 

While the increase in available stock will test the depth of buyer demand, auction clearance rates remain robust, hovering in the 70% range. Thus, it’s predicted that the trend of purchasing demand outweighing supply will continue this Spring.

In our local North Sydney to Hornsby sub-region, 90 properties were auctioned in the week ending 7 September 2025, achieving a clearance rate of 71.1%. Out of all the Sydney sub-regions, the North Sydney to Hornsby sub-region had the largest number of total auctions, suggesting a positive outlook on the market from sellers in the area.

Looking ahead, 2,600 homes are scheduled for auction next week across the combined capitals, an increase of 164 properties from this week.

Rental Market Snapshot
The rental market also shows promising signs this spring, with national rental growth increasing by 0.5% this month—the highest month-on-month increase since May 2024. Sydney’s rental rates remain the highest among the capitals, with the median house rent at $833 per week and units at $749 per week. Nationally, the rental vacancy rate remains tight at just 1.5%. To put this in context, the vacancy rate in 2020 was more than double at 3.3%.

With rising rent payments and limited supply, many renters are contemplating the option of purchasing a property. The Federal Government’s 5% deposit scheme for first-time homebuyers, launching on 1st October 2025, is expected to make homeownership more accessible for a new generation of buyers and will consequently influence the dynamics of the rental landscape.

What’s on in the Community?

Looking for something to do this September. Here are some great local events:

Australian Plant Society Walks and Talks – Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden, 420 Mona Vale Road, St Ives. In the month of September, these free walks and talks will be held on 1st, 8th, 15th and 22nd of September.

202 Ku-ring-gai Sculpture Trail – This free sculpture exhibition consisting of over 40 sculptures is in the Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden and will run from 6 September to 6 October. All the sculptures are made from recycled materials and is a great display of sustainable art.

Ku-ring-gai Spring Twilight Concert – Celebrate hits from the 60s and 80s at Wahroonga Park from 5pm on Saturday 18 October 2025

Get in Touch with The Marshall Group.

The Marshall Group are leaders in real estate, and we are happy to have been awarded the prestigious North Shore Local Business Award for Outstanding Real Estate Agency as well as winning the Business of the Year Award for 2025.

Whether you’re considering selling, leasing, investing, or simply want a clearer picture of the current market, we’re here to help. Visit us at our offices in Lindfield, Gordon, St Ives, or Wahroonga, or get in touch with one of our agents directly.

Your property journey deserves trusted guidance—let The Marshall Group be your partner in 2025.