Market Reports

Market Update: January 2026

The Sunshine Coast residential market continues to be shaped by a lack of existing properties coming to market. Many owners are choosing to hold rather than sell, often due to limited downsizing or upsizing options locally. This reduced turnover has become a defining feature of the market and continues to support buyer demand, particularly for well-located and well-presented homes.

Below $1.6 million, the imbalance between supply and demand is most pronounced. Buyer enquiry in this range remains strong, yet the number of suitable homes available is limited. Family homes, low-maintenance properties and well-presented residences continue to attract solid interest, with buyers frequently facing few comparable alternatives.

For properties above $2 million, selling periods are typically longer. The buyer pool narrows, choice increases, and purchases become more lifestyle-driven, with buyers seeking specific attributes that align with their individual needs. In many cases, purchasers in this price range need to sell an existing property before committing, which can extend timeframes. Sales at this level are less influenced by broader market momentum and more by finding the right buyer match.

More broadly, a key factor influencing current conditions is the lack of suitable downsizing and upsizing options for local owners. Many homeowners who would otherwise consider selling are finding limited alternatives within their own communities—particularly downsizers seeking well-located, modern, safe and affordable homes. As a result, many are choosing to renovate or adapt existing properties instead, further reducing the number of homes coming to market and tightening overall supply.

While some buyers are weighing up the feasibility of building, the scarcity of vacant land and ongoing high construction costs continue to push demand back toward established homes.

Looking ahead to 2026, market conditions are expected to remain closely linked to the availability of existing housing stock. With limited new supply, constrained vacant land and sustained build-cost pressures, demand for established homes is likely to remain resilient. While performance will continue to vary by price point, the underlying shortage of housing options is expected to remain a central feature of the Sunshine Coast market.

For sellers, current conditions highlight that selling strategy is more important than price alone. In the lower price ranges, it is a good time to sell. When stock is tight, presentation, timing, method of sale and the ability to create genuine competition often produce a strong outcome. In the upper price ranges, a clear sales strategy, evidence based market positioning, flexibility and high-quality, results-driven marketing are critical to achieving a successful result.

For buyers, limited choice means being prepared, informed and decisive is essential. Opportunities can be scarce, particularly in the lower to mid-price ranges and hesitation can lead to missed purchases. Understanding value, having finance and sale arrangements clearly mapped out, and being realistic about potential compromises can make a significant difference.

Residential & Rural Lifestyle • Last updated: 26 August 2025

The Sunshine Coast Hinterland property market continues to attract strong demand. Reduced interest rates and a shortage of homes and acreage for sale are keeping competition high, with many buyers eager to secure their own piece of this hinterland paradise.

Compared with this time last year, the number of sales has eased back a little, but that is largely due to limited stock rather than any drop in buyer interest. Well-presented homes are still moving quickly, with the average selling time sitting at around four to six weeks. In popular towns such as Maleny, Montville, Mapleton and Palmwoods, properties are often selling faster than they did a year ago. The same trend is evident in the Noosa Hinterland, where areas like Cooroy, Eumundi, Doonan and Pomona are experiencing strong buyer urgency due to tight supply.

Families relocating from Brisbane and interstate are seeking more space, lifestyle and community, while many locals are upsizing, downsizing or moving within the region. More affordable options such as units and townhouses in hubs like Nambour, Landsborough and Yandina are also drawing increased attention as buyers look for accessible alternatives that still offer a hinterland lifestyle.

Acreage remains a standout segment of the market. Properties with usable land, water, sheds and established improvements are commanding strong prices, and when the right one comes up, it rarely lasts long. Buyers are especially drawn to the privacy, views and lifestyle that only hinterland acreage can provide.

The outlook for the next 12 months remains positive. With lower borrowing costs, steady population growth and limited supply, values are expected to remain under upward pressure. Major property research groups forecast continued growth across South-East Queensland into 2026, positioning both the Sunshine Coast and Noosa Hinterland as strong markets going forward.

At Elders Living, we believe property decisions should never feel complicated. We explain the market in clear and straightforward terms, giving you the confidence to move forward backed by local expertise and Elders’ trusted reputation.

Spring is always a busy season, with more buyers actively looking and strong competition for limited homes and acreages. If you are considering a move, now is the ideal time to explore your options. We would be glad to provide a no-obligation appraisal anywhere in the Sunshine Coast or Noosa Hinterland, and take the time to walk you through the process step by step.