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Understanding the Property Market: Buyers vs Sellers

The property market is a dynamic ecosystem that constantly shifts between favouring buyers and sellers. These market conditions significantly impact property prices, negotiation power, and overall market sentiment. Let’s delve into the key differences between a buyers’ market and a sellers’ market, and explore what these mean for property investors, homeowners, and first-time buyers in today’s economic climate.

What is a Buyers’ Market?

A buyers’ market occurs when there’s an abundance of properties available for sale, but fewer people looking to purchase. This situation typically leads to:

  • Lower property prices
  • Longer time on market for listings
  • More negotiating power for buyers
  • Increased competition among sellers

In a buyers’ market, those looking to purchase a property often have the upper hand. They can take their time to make decisions, negotiate more aggressively on price, and potentially secure better deals.

What is a Sellers’ Market?

Conversely, a sellers’ market is characterised by:

  • High demand for properties
  • Limited supply of available homes
  • Rising property prices
  • Quicker sales
  • Multiple offers on properties

In this scenario, sellers have more control over the transaction process. They can often command higher prices and have the luxury of choosing between multiple offers.

Current Market Conditions

As of 2024, many regions are experiencing a shift towards a buyers’ market. This transition is evident in several key indicators:

  1. Increased Listings: The number of properties for sale has risen significantly, with approximately 33,000 homes on the market nationwide. This level of inventory hasn’t been seen since 2015.
  2. Longer Time on Market: Properties are taking longer to sell, giving buyers more time to consider their options.
  3. Price Reductions: Some sellers are slashing prices to attract buyers. In certain areas, price reductions of up to $250,000 have been observed.
  4. Buyer Hesitation: Despite favourable conditions for buyers, many are holding back due to economic uncertainties, high interest rates, and the cost-of-living crisis.

Factors Influencing the Market Shift

Several factors have contributed to the current market conditions:

  1. Interest Rates: High mortgage rates, hovering around 7%, have made borrowing more expensive and reduced buyer demand.
  2. Economic Uncertainty: The rising cost of living and concerns about job security have made potential buyers more cautious.
  3. Inflation: While inflation has eased slightly, it remains a significant concern for 90% of people, according to the Financial Services Council’s latest Financial Resilience Index.
  4. Unemployment: The unemployment rate has risen to 4.3%, the highest since mid-2021, adding to economic uncertainty.

Implications for Different Market Participants

For Buyers

While current conditions favour buyers, many are hesitant to enter the market due to economic uncertainties. However, for those in a position to buy, there are several advantages:

  • More choice in properties
  • Potential for price negotiations
  • Less competition from other buyers
  • More time to make decisions

First-time buyers, in particular, may find opportunities in this market that were previously out of reach.

For Sellers

Sellers face more challenges in the current market:

  • Properties may take longer to sell
  • Prices may need to be reduced to attract buyers
  • More competition from other sellers
  • Less negotiating power

However, it’s important to note that well-priced, desirable properties can still attract buyers, even in a challenging market.

For Investors

Property investors need to adjust their strategies in a buyers’ market:

  • Focus on long-term capital growth rather than short-term gains
  • Consider properties with strong rental yield potential
  • Be prepared to negotiate harder on purchase prices
  • Have a backup plan, such as the ability to hold properties as rentals if unable to sell quickly

Regional Variations

It’s crucial to remember that property markets can vary significantly by region. While the overall trend may be towards a buyers’ market, some areas may still see strong demand and rising prices. For example, recent data shows that Dunedin values rose 0.7% in April, while Auckland values dipped 0.6%.

Looking Ahead

While the current market favours buyers, it’s important to note that markets are cyclical. Experts suggest that improvements in the property market may be linked to economic conditions in other countries, particularly the United States.

For those considering entering the property market, whether as buyers or sellers, it’s crucial to:

  1. Stay informed about local market conditions
  2. Seek advice from property professionals
  3. Consider long-term goals rather than short-term market fluctuations
  4. Be prepared to adapt strategies based on changing market conditions

In conclusion, while we’re currently experiencing a buyers’ market, the property landscape remains complex and multifaceted. By understanding the dynamics of buyers’ and sellers’ markets, participants in the property market can make more informed decisions and navigate the current conditions more effectively.

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