Buyers in South Australia are showing no signs of slowing down as property auctions continue to take place right up until Christmas. Realestate.com.au reports a busy auction schedule, with events planned across the state until December 23. Notably, one auction is even set for December 27, indicating ongoing demand despite the festive season.
Real estate agent Martin Betts from Turner Real Estate has two auctions lined up for December 23 at 24 Snowdon Avenue, Salisbury East, and 79 Moldavia Walk, Osborne. He emphasizes that potential buyers remain active during this time, driven by a strong need for housing. “There’s plenty of activity out there still. There are people out there that are desperate to find something,” Betts stated.
The current property market is characterized by low stock levels, which has intensified competition among buyers. Betts noted that many individuals do not pause their search for homes simply because it is Christmas. He mentioned a variety of professionals, including nurses, police officers, and teachers, who are often relocating during this period. These groups frequently take advantage of the holiday break to search for properties.
Another agent, Justin Irving from Ray White, is also set to auction two properties on December 23 at 19b Ballard Road, Smithfield Plains, and 1/40 Traverse Avenue, Salisbury North. Irving highlighted the success his team has experienced in conducting auctions right before Christmas in previous years. “Last year we did run auctions right up till Christmas and had great success,” he remarked.
Irving indicated that the final days leading up to Christmas present a unique opportunity for sellers, as fewer agents conduct auctions at this time, often leading to higher turnout and competitive bids. He noted a strong clearance rate, stating, “I think the last 53 auctions we’ve had, we sold 52 on the day of auction, so that’s a pretty strong clearance rate in anyone’s books.”
The holiday season does not completely halt the market. According to Realestate.com.au, there are currently four auctions scheduled in metropolitan Adelaide for December 23, including a four-bedroom home at 2 Hull Street, Elizabeth East, which is set to auction on December 27. This property is the only auction booked between Christmas and New Year. The first auctions of the new year are scheduled for January 9, 2024, with nine properties expected to go under the hammer, primarily in Adelaide’s northern suburbs.
Irving’s insights suggest that being active in the market during the holiday break can yield significant benefits. “The period between Christmas Eve and New Year’s Day – it’s the most viewed time on Realestate.com.au,” he explained. This visibility can be critical for sellers who may not secure a sale before Christmas but can still attract considerable attention in the days that follow.
As South Australian buyers remain committed to their property searches, it is clear that the festive season will not deter their pursuit of new homes. The ongoing activity reflects a changing market landscape, where demand continues to outpace supply, even during traditionally quieter times.
