Is Adelaide Transitioning Into a Buyer’s Market in 2026?
For the past few years, Adelaide’s property market has firmly favoured sellers. Strong demand, limited housing supply and rapid price growth created intense competition, often leaving buyers with little time to make decisions.
But recent data suggests things may be starting to change. For the first time in over a year, Adelaide’s monthly growth rate has fallen below 1%.
While dwelling values continue to rise, recent data signals a noticeable slowdown compared to the pace of growth we’ve become familiar with.
So, are we transitioning into a buyer’s market? The latest numbers suggest we may be heading in that direction.
Adelaide Property Market Update
According to the latest property data for Greater Adelaide (as at 31 May 2025):
Monthly dwelling value growth: +0.5%
Quarterly dwelling value growth: +2.8%
Annual dwelling value growth: +11.5%
Median dwelling value: $949,675
Source: Cotality
What Does a Slowing Growth Rate Mean?
A slowdown in growth doesn’t automatically mean property prices are falling.
In fact, Adelaide continues to outperform many Australian property markets and values remain near record highs.
What it does indicate is that market conditions are becoming less competitive. We’re seeing:
More properties available for sale
Buyers taking longer to make decisions
Increased negotiation opportunities
Reduced urgency compared to previous years
For buyers, these are often early signs of a more balanced market.
Are Buyers Finally Gaining More Power?
In a strong seller’s market, buyers often need to act immediately and compete against multiple offers.
As markets become more balanced, buyers generally gain:
More choice - an increase in available listings allows buyers to compare more properties before making a decision.
Greater negotiating power - with less competition, buyers may have more opportunity to negotiate price, settlement terms and contract conditions.
More time to make decisions - one of the biggest changes we’re seeing is buyers taking longer to evaluate properties and conduct due diligence. While quality homes continue to attract strong interest, the pressure to make instant decisions is easing.
The Cost of Waiting: Adelaide Rental Market Conditions
While buying conditions may be improving, there is another factor buyers should consider.
The cost of renting continues to rise.
National rents increased by 5.9% over the past year, and the average renter is now paying approximately $204 more per week than they were five years ago. Adelaide’s rental market remains particularly tight, with vacancy rates continuing to sit below 1%.
For many households, this creates an interesting dilemma. While some buyers continue waiting for property prices to soften further, ongoing rental increases mean the cost of delaying a purchase may be higher than many realise.
Adelaide Property Forecast: What Happens Next?
Most market commentators expect Adelaide’s growth rate to continue moderating as affordability pressures impact buyer demand.
This doesn’t necessarily mean prices will fall significantly. Instead, the more likely scenario is a gradual transition towards a balanced market, where neither buyers nor sellers hold a significant advantage.
For buyers, that could create some of the best opportunities we’ve seen in recent years.
For sellers, presentation, pricing strategy and effective marketing will become increasingly important as competition between listings grows.
Need Advice on the Adelaide Property Market?
Whether you’re looking to buy, sell or invest, understanding local market conditions is essential when making property decisions. At Key and Stone Property, we help Adelaide homeowners, buyers and investors navigate changing market conditions with confidence. If you’re thinking about your next move, let us know how we can help. Our team would be happy to provide guidance on the current market and help you plan the next step in your property journey. Get in touch with us today!
Readers should seek independent legal advice tailored to their specific circumstances. Key and Stone Property Pty Ltd do not accept any liability for the accuracy or applicability of the information provided herein. This article is intended as a general guide only. RLA 339 033.