Reduced investor demand, affordability pressures and higher interest rates are contributing to the slowdown. New listings in Sydney and Melbourne were also up 6%–7% annually in the first five months of 2026, giving buyers more choice and potentially reducing competition in some areas.

 

REA Group executive manager of economics Angus Moore said the current slowdown is expected to be temporary, with population growth, housing supply constraints and strong first home buyer demand likely to support prices and see growth resume.

 

For buyers who have been waiting on the sidelines, that could create a window of opportunity before price growth resumes. Self-employed first home buyers may also have more options than they realise, as lending criteria and income assessment methods can vary significantly between lenders.

 

#firsthomebuyers #Australiaproperty #selfemployed

 

A changing market can create opportunities, but understanding your finance options remains just as important as finding the right property. 

 

Direct Credit Home Loans helps first home buyers, including self-employed borrowers, explore lending solutions tailored to their circumstances. Contact us on (07) 3726 1124 or email [email protected] to discuss your options.