The budget changes last month have left many Australians reconsidering their real estate goals, but our view at Raine & Horne is that it is far from Armageddon time for the real estate market. 

According to Australian Property Investor Magazine, Australia has approximately 9.7 million dwellings, of which around 2 million are owned by investors. This means that just 22% of Australian households own an investment property, while 78% do noti. 

Importantly, unlike an investment property, the family home is completely capital gains tax-free when sold. As a result, the proposed changes to negative gearing and capital gains tax will not directly impact the majority of owner-occupied homes that make up Australia’s 12.6 trillion real estate leviathan. 

Setting this important point aside, winter can be a very worthwhile season to consider if you’re planning to sell a quality, well-located property. Raine & Horne research shows that property listings regularly decline as the mercury plummets. Last year, listings dropped almost 10% between May and June and, in 2024, they dropped over 25% for the same period. This means that sellers often face less competition, while their properties can enjoy greater visibility with serious buyers. It’s worth noting that buyer numbers at open homes in May were almost on par with a year earlier. 

The reality is that a large majority of buyers still need to move regardless of external forces such as government legislation or interest rate movements. They buy because they have expanding families, need to relocate for new jobs, are empty nesters tired of maintaininga larger home, or are first home buyers eager to pursue what is still the Great Australian Dream.  

5 ways to present your property at its best this winter 

While the odds still seem stacked in favour of owner-occupiers, there are still some simple steps you can take to achieve a successful winter sale.  

1. Declutter your space to make a strong second impression 

No matter the season, clutter can make a home feel smaller, darker, and less inviting.  

Take the time to remove unnecessary items such as knick-knacks, family photos, and other unnecessary flotsam and jetsam, storing personal belongings, and organising each space, whether it’s the loungeroom, bedrooms, kitchen, or bathrooms. A clean, open layout enhances the sense of space and helps potential buyers picture themselves living in your property. 

1. Make your property warm and welcoming 

The colder days allow the opportunity to highlight your property’s wintery comforts. Turn up the heating, light up the fireplace or use candles to create an inviting environment. It helps buyers picture themselves living in your property. Add soft furnishings such as throws, cushions, and rugs with warmer tones. These simple touches can enhance the comfort and visual appeal of your property for potential buyers.  

1. Maximise the winter light 

Shorter days make natural light more valuable. Open the blinds and curtains to let in as much daylight as possible and consider adding lamps to brighten darker corners. Bright, well-lit spaces feel bigger and more appealing to buyers. 

1. Maintain the garden for a strong first impression 

For house owners, don’t let winter become an excuse for garden and lawn neglect. Rake up fallen leaves, trim hedges, and keep the lawn neat. Tidy outdoor spaces create a strong first impression with buyers.  

1. Handle repairs early 

Repair leaking taps and broken tiles, as they will allow heavy winter rain to seep through or touch up scuffed walls before inviting buyers to your open for inspections. Whether you own an apartment or a house, if there are any mould or mildew spots, be sure to address them before your buyers arrive.  

A well-maintained property reassures potential buyers and helps justify your asking price.  

Thinking of selling this winter? 

With lower competition, robust buyer interest, and a milder winter, despite the external headwinds, the cooler months of 2026 could be the perfect time to sell.  

For expert advice on how to present your home in its best light this winter and a no-obligation market appraisal, contact your local Raine & Horne agent today.