Boroondara Market Update by Steven Abbott – October 2025
Steven Abbott - Managing Director & Auctioneer
September 2025Confidence returns as listings and buyer demand strengthen
The Boroondara property market is moving towards the end of 2025 in a position of steady strength. While the broader economy continues to present challenges, our local market has held firm, with rising listing volumes, competitive auctions, strong clearance rates and positive buyer engagement across key price brackets. This renewed activity bears all the hallmarks of a new cycle of growth.
Market performance
The year commenced cautiously, with buyers and vendors carefully assessing the impact of higher interest rates and broader economic pressures. As the months progressed, we’ve seen a gradual return to auctions as the main method of sale (versus off market and private treaty), which reflects a growing confidence in the market. Jellis Craig auction clearance rates in July, August and September were particularly strong – between 70% and 75% – with multiple bidders competing for quality homes.
Listing volumes are also showing an increase of 20–25% year-on-year for the pre-peak auction months. This increase underlines improved sentiment, as more homeowners make the decision to upgrade, downsize, or re-enter the market.
Middle market strength
Traditionally, Boroondara’s middle market has been defined within the $1–3 million range. Increasingly, strong demand has extended this bracket upwards to $2–5 million. Families remain the most active cohort in this segment, seeking larger homes with proximity to leading schools, village shopping precincts and reliable transport.
This demand flow continues to generate movement at both ends of the spectrum: those trading out of family homes are enabling the next generation to enter, while upgraders pursue properties at the higher end. Together, these dynamics signal the early stages of a new market cycle.
Premium and upper markets
At the upper end, the $5–20 million bracket has emerged as a particularly active premium market. Buyers in this range include both local families and international purchasers. Jellis Craig continues to lead the way as the agency of choice for high-end property sales. With strategically positioned offices across Melbourne’s most prestigious suburbs, together with our 2.3 million-strong client database, we are able to seamlessly, and discreetly, connect discerning buyers with premium properties that match their requirements.
The enduring appeal of Boroondara continues to drive demand at this premium end. Leafy streetscapes, access to some of Melbourne’s best schools, and the convenience of village living in locations such as Ashburton, Surrey Hills and the Glenferrie Road corridor, ensure consistent buyer interest.
Renovation opportunities
With building costs stabilising, interest in homes with renovation potential has started to return. Many buyers are once again looking at period homes with strong fundamentals and planning contemporary upgrades. Suburbs such as Surrey Hills, Canterbury and Hawthorn are benefitting, combining heritage character with renewed infrastructure and improved connectivity.
This renovation renaissance is broadening choice for buyers and opening pathways for families, downsizers and second-home buyers looking to secure value in well-located properties, particularly in the $1–2.5 million range.
Interest rates and market settings
The Reserve Bank of Australia’s (RBA) management of interest rates has been central to the market’s performance. Buyers have factored in potential future decreases – bidding strength at auctions demonstrates confidence in a stable outlook.
We anticipate at least one further interest rate drop before the end of the year, and a total of three by Easter 2026, which would support sustainable growth. A measured path by the RBA has kept the market steady, with affordability and buyer demand preserved.
Brand evolution
You may have noticed our recent brand refresh. We believe it reflects a subtle yet powerful progression that maintains our established identity while signalling growth and confidence for the future. The updated branding has resonated strongly with our clients and teams alike, modernising our presence without losing the heritage and trust that has underpinned the Jellis Craig name for some 30+ years.
Seller considerations
For sellers, understanding buyer profiles remains critical. The market is comprised of distinct groups, from local owner-occupier families to investors, builders and international purchasers. Effective campaigns will focus on these groups and present properties in ways that resonate with their priorities, whether that is a turnkey opportunity, scope for renovation, or lifestyle amenity.
At Jellis Craig Boroondara, our tailored marketing strategies are designed to achieve the strongest results by aligning presentation and promotion with likely buyer profiles.
Outlook
Looking ahead, the fundamentals for Boroondara remain positive. Increased listings are matched by healthy demand, with confidence expected to build further as interest rates move in a downward direction.
Boroondara’s reputation as one of Melbourne’s most desirable regions remains secure.
For those considering a sale in the coming months, preparation and strategic planning will be essential. As momentum builds, well-presented and well-marketed properties will continue to achieve excellent results. Smart buyers can still unearth value; it’s a matter of being open to a longer capital growth cycle.
