The region's enduring strengths – its coveted lifestyle, location near Melbourne, and ongoing infrastructure investment – have positioned it for continued success. 

While activity has moderated somewhat in Ballarat and Daylesford, well-priced and well-presented homes in desirable locations continue to draw buyers. In the Woodend and Castlemaine region, quality character homes and properties requiring little work remain popular. Although there is interest from those seeking space and lifestyle options, the surplus of stock has resulted in longer days on market for some vendors with larger acreage properties.

Rising construction costs have impacted our region, translating into a noticeable slowdown in land sales and development. Ballarat has seen a decrease in ownerbuilder projects and townhouse evelopments, while in Daylesford there has been a surprising uptick in large-volume builders entering the market to meet the demand for readily available homes.

While building costs are beginning to stabilise, they remain a concern for many, particularly those considering significant renovations or new builds. Consequently, demand for move-in-ready, newly constructed and renovated properties has surged.

Early 2024 saw an increase in attendance at open homes. Although not all inspection attendees were ready to purchase, they were exploring the opportunity of a move to the country. In May the Woodend, Castlemaine and Daylesford offices recorded the highest number of property sales since November 2021. With the typical seasonal hiatus and resultant lower volume of listings over the winter period, along with the potential of easing interest rates, we remain confident in property price growth for the remainder of the 2025 financial year.