Here’s the Tea!

The past few months have underscored just how resilient the prestige and lifestyle market on the Coast and in the Hunter remains. With the RBA recently cutting the cash rate by 0.25% to 3.6%, we’ve seen a noticeable lift in confidence.

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In my experience, these shifts don’t instantly change buyer behaviour overnight, but they do add momentum and depth to the pool of qualified purchasers — especially in the premium space where confidence often counts as much as capacity.

In the rural and acreage lifestyle segment, the underlying drivers remain clear. Families from Sydney and Newcastle are still prioritising space, privacy, and lifestyle security without compromising on connectivity. Downsizers, too, are active, many using strong city sales results to pivot into manageable yet high-quality acreage retreats. From what I’m seeing on the ground, properties with genuine character and infrastructure continue to be tightly held, and when they do come to market, they’re well received.

At the prestige end — waterfronts, architectural homes, and unique estates — scarcity is the significant factor. Premium buyers are not flooding the market, but the ones who are present are highly motivated. The days of “fear of missing out” are behind us; today’s buyers are discerning, informed, and very clear on what they want. From my vantage point, that means presentation and positioning matter more than ever — the right story and campaign can mean the difference between a good result and a standout one.

One of the reasons I aligned with McGrath is the strength of our partnership with Knight Frank and Bayleys International. That network provides my clients with exposure to a truly global audience of high-net-worth buyers, while maintaining the personal, relationship-driven approach that defines this market. In my view, it’s the best of both worlds: national brand alignment with international reach, paired with the trust and guidance of a local expert.

Looking ahead, I expect stability and steady growth, with the potential for further upside if rates ease again. My advice to owners considering a move is this: the buyers are out there, but they are measured. The properties that succeed will be those that marry scarcity with strong presentation, backed by a strategy that speaks directly to this audience.

Find out more, visit www.mcgrath.com.au/agents