For owners weighing up a sale, the latest resale figures are reassuring. Domain’s Profit and Loss report shows 97.6% of regional sales generated a profit over the quarter, ahead of 97.3% across the combined capitals, and Queensland leads the regional states with 98.4% of house sales selling above their previous purchase price. Regional Queensland house and unit markets both posted record median profits. Domain chief residential economist Nicola Powell says most loss-making sales involve investors taking a tax write-off or owners selling under financial pressure, adding that “It’s a timely reminder that property is about the long game, not getting distracted by the short-term fluctuations.”

Land supply sits behind those results. The Housing Industry Association’s Residential Land Report puts the national median lot price at $403,570 after a 0.4% rise in the March quarter, with annual growth of 8.7% running about three times faster than wages. Lot sales fell 7.6% over the quarter, which HIA senior economist Tom Devitt says is leaving Australia short of shovel-ready land while population growth and new household formation continue. Oliver Hume figures put the South East Queensland median land value at $544,900, compared with $404,000 in Melbourne and $309,500 in Adelaide.

Owners with an investment property should also note the ban on new residential lending through self-managed super funds, which took effect on 10 August. Existing loans are grandfathered and can still be refinanced, but new borrowing for residential purchases is closed. The APIM Property Sentiment Report shows buying intentions softening and selling intentions lifting, though Queensland remains the most favoured state among those still investing, nominated by 35% of respondents.

Johnson Real Estate covers sales and rentals across South East Queensland. Call 1800 SELL SMARTRE, or email sellsmartre@johnsonre.com.au.