As the market moves into 2026, both the Southern Highlands and South Coast continue to show resilience. While the rapid post-pandemic growth has settled, buyer confidence has noticeably strengthened, and high quality properties remain tightly held. For those planning a move next year, understanding where the market is heading will help you make well-timed and strategic decisions.
A STEADIER, MORE BALANCED MARKET EMERGING
After a period of adjustment, both regions are now seeing a healthier balance between supply and demand. Prices have stabilised, but well presented homes still attract strong enquiry, particularly in Bowral, Burradoo, Kiama, Gerringong, and Mollymook. Buyers are more considered, but competition persists for properties with lifestyle appeal, good positioning, or recent upgrades.
WHAT TO EXPECT IN THE SOUTHERN HIGHLANDS
The Highlands remains one of the most attractive tree-change locations in NSW. Sydney families, remote workers, and downsizers continue to drive enquiry, particularly for homes within walking distance to cafés, schools, and medical centres. Lifestyle acreage also remains popular, with limited supply maintaining values.
With increasing off-market activity, working with the best buyers agent Southern Highlands offers a significant advantage, especially for prestige and tightly held pockets.
WHAT TO EXPECT ON THE SOUTH COAST
The South Coast is set for another consistent year supported by tourism, strong rental demand, and continued infrastructure improvements. Coastal view homes and walk-to-beach properties are still achieving healthy results. Investors are more yield-focused, favouring suburbs with strong occupancy history and manageable maintenance costs.
Overall, the South Coast is on track for gradual, sustainable growth rather than dramatic price swings.
WHO IS BEST POSITIONED IN 2026
Buyers who prepare early will have the upper hand. This includes:
- Downsizers looking for low-maintenance homes with walkability
- Sydney families seeking lifestyle space without leaving NSW
- Investors targeting strong holiday rental areas
- Buyers aiming to secure property before competition increases post-summer
THE YEAR AHEAD
Both regions continue to offer long-term stability, lifestyle advantages, and strong fundamentals. With interest rate stability and renewed buyer confidence, 2026 is shaping up to be a year defined by quality, not quantity, in both listings and sales.
Want tailored insights for your property goals? Let’s have a strategy chat.
Contact Katie Marsden at Earth Property Buyers Agents on +61 418 797 701 for a confidential discussion about securing the right property in 2026.
