The disrupted Easter break actually provided a timely window for the market to breathe. After a high-velocity start to the year, the pause allowed both buyers and sellers to step back, assess the moving parts, and recalibrate for what looks to be a more nuanced second quarter.
We enter April in a complex environment. On one hand, we’re seeing a fresh wave of reports suggesting further interest rate rises are on the horizon. While we know from experience that these forecasts have a patchy track record of accuracy, the sheer volume of commentary - combined with broader global and domestic uncertainty - is weighing on sentiment.
Adding to this is the lead-up to the Federal Budget in May. Historically, this is a period where the market takes a "wait and see" approach, wary of potential industry shifts or tax changes. There is significant discussion at the moment around property-related taxes, particularly regarding investment structures and the CGT discount. In a market that has already moved into a softer phase, any further pressure on the investor segment could have a tangible impact on broader stability.
