The enduring rise and rise of Australia’s favourite asset class, residential real estate, continued in February, defying both economic uncertainty and an interest rate hike.

Data from research house Cotality shows national dwelling values rose 0.8% over the month, pushing annual growth to 9.9% and lifting the median national dwelling value to just under $923,000.

The ongoing strength of the residential housing market comes despite considerable economic headwinds, including the prospect of further rate increases. Yet these factors failed to dampen buyer enthusiasm, with Raine & Horne data reporting open-for-inspection (OFI) numbers up almost 15% month-on-month in February.

Angus Raine, Executive Chairman of Raine & Horne, said the OFI data shows the continuing appeal of bricks and mortar. “The February open home results confirm that residential real estate is still Australia’s preferred asset class.

“Even in the face of higher interest rates and wider economic uncertainty, Australians continue to view property as a mainstay of long-term wealth creation and financial security.”

The latest Cotality figures also revealed that mid-sized capitals led the monthly gains, with Perth up 2.3%, Brisbane rising 1.6%, and Adelaide increasing 1.3%.

Perth remains the leading performer annually, recording 22% growth in dwelling values. Brisbane and Adelaide also posted strong annual gains, rising just over 17% and almost 11% respectively.

A combination of previously low listing volumes, subdued construction activity and above-average population growth continues to underpin price growth. “Also, the First Home Guarantee Scheme that supports eligible buyers with smaller deposits is sustaining demand at entry levels,” Angus said.

Listings surge 36% as vendors make a move ahead of Easter

Clearly, Raine & Horne’s data shows that savvy vendors have recognised the strength of the buyer market and have not been deterred by the recent rate hike, Angus noted.

Appraisals jumped almost 23% year-on-year in February (and 21% month-on-month), while listings lifted nearly 8% annually and surged an extremely robust 36.75% over the month as vendors move to achieve their real estate goals ahead of the early Easter period beginning 3 April.

“The combination of increased listings and resilient buyer numbers augurs well for a healthy autumn 2026 selling season,” Angus said.

“For those vendors sitting on the fence, the pre-Easter period represents a great time to make a move with many buyers desperate to get their real estate goals in place before the next holiday season arrives.”

Home Value Index February 20206

 (Source: Cotality Home Value Index 2 March 2026)

If you’re considering making a move this autumn, contact your local Raine & Horne agent today.