What is the Current Average Time on Market for Properties in Australia?

Understanding how long properties typically stay on the market is essential for both buyers and sellers. Whether you’re planning to invest, relocate, or list your property, having up-to-date insights into property movement can shape your strategy and expectations. Let’s explore the average time on market in Australia, what influences it, and what it means for sellers like you.
How is the Average Time on Market in Australia Measured?
The average time on market in Australia is the duration between when a property is listed for sale and when it is sold. This metric is calculated by tracking listings across various real estate platforms and agencies, from the date they become available to the date they go under contract or are marked as sold.
It’s important to note that this time frame can vary greatly depending on the type of property, location, market demand, economic conditions, and pricing strategy.
What is the Current Average Time on Market in Australia?
As of 2025, the national average time on market in Australia sits around 30 to 45 days. However, this number fluctuates depending on city and regional trends:
- Sydney & Melbourne: These markets remain fast-paced, with average times around 25–35 days due to high demand and limited housing stock.
- Brisbane & Adelaide: Properties here typically sell within 30–40 days, showing a balanced market.
- Perth & Darwin: While these cities have seen slower growth in the past, average times have improved, generally ranging from 35–50 days.
- Regional Areas: Depending on remoteness and demand, properties in rural areas can take 50–70 days or more to sell.
This data suggests that most properties sell within one to two months if priced and marketed correctly.
What Factors Influence the Time on Market?
Several key elements impact how long a property stays on the market:
1. Location
Desirable suburbs near schools, transport, and amenities tend to attract quicker sales. Coastal and inner-city properties often sell faster due to high demand.
2. Pricing Strategy
Overpricing a home is one of the most common reasons it lingers on the market. Competitive pricing from the outset helps draw in serious buyers faster.
3. Market Conditions
Interest rates, buyer sentiment, and supply-and-demand dynamics can significantly alter the speed of sales. For example, in a buyer’s market, homes may sit longer due to more competition.
4. Presentation and Marketing
Well-presented homes with professional photography and strong online presence tend to perform better. Choosing the right listing platform, such as For Sale By Home Owner, can also shorten timeframes by targeting genuine buyers.
What Can Sellers Do to Reduce Time on Market?
Selling your home quickly and efficiently requires a thoughtful approach. Here are practical steps sellers can take:
– Use the Right Platform
Listing your property on a reputable platform like For Sale By Home Owner increases visibility. We help property owners market directly to buyers, reducing costs and delays associated with traditional real estate agencies.
– Stage and Photograph Professionally
First impressions count. Clean, declutter, and stage your property to show its full potential. High-quality images attract more interest.
– Be Competitive with Price
Research comparable sales in your area and price your home accordingly. Overpricing can discourage potential buyers from even considering your listing.
– Stay Flexible
Accommodate inspection times and be responsive to inquiries. Buyers are more likely to act when they feel they’re dealing with an open and motivated seller.
How Do Regional Markets Compare?
The average time on market in Australia differs significantly in regional versus urban areas. In cities like Sydney, homes can sell within weeks due to demand. However, in more remote parts of Tasmania or Western Australia, homes may remain on the market for several months.
Understanding your local market is critical. Sellers in regional areas should be patient, but can improve their chances by highlighting unique features like large land size, quiet surroundings, or lifestyle opportunities.
What Does the Average Time on Market Mean for Buyers?
For buyers, this metric offers insight into how quickly they need to act. In hot markets with shorter average sale times, hesitation could result in missed opportunities. Buyers should have financing pre-approved and be ready to act fast when the right property appears.
In slower-moving markets, buyers may have more room to negotiate or explore several options before making a decision.
Conclusion:
Knowing the average time on market in Australia helps both buyers and sellers plan effectively. While national averages provide a general picture, local trends and property-specific details are equally important.
Using platforms like For Sale By Home Owner, sellers can take greater control of the process, reduce costs, and potentially shorten the time it takes to close a deal. Whether you’re listing in a bustling metro area or a serene countryside town, understanding and leveraging market timing can make all the difference.