South East Queensland is shaping up as one of the country's standout townhouse markets, with the latest approval data underlining just how quickly demand is shifting. The Logan-Beaudesert region recorded a 147% jump in townhouse approvals over the year to April 2026, reaching 1,254 and placing it fourth nationally, behind only three Melbourne regions. The Gold Coast also featured among the top 20 locations alongside regional centres such as the Hunter Valley and Illawarra. Much of the momentum comes from state governments easing zoning restrictions to make way for more medium-density housing, opening up fresh opportunities for buyers and investors across the region.

Land values are climbing too. Residential land prices are now 9.4% higher than a year ago, rising at almost three times the rate of consumer price growth through 2025, according to Housing Industry Association data. The national median land price hit a record $397,840 in the December quarter. HIA senior economist Tom Devitt noted that Brisbane has been producing record high prices for several years, leading the national home building recovery alongside Perth and Adelaide. For South East Queensland landowners, that sustained growth is another marker of the region's long-term strength.

There is also a renewed push to make it easier for first home buyers to get started. Master Builders Australia is calling for stamp duty to be lowered for first home buyers nationwide, arguing the tax forces many to take on larger mortgages to cover the upfront cost. Chief economist Shane Garrett said stamp duty erodes the deposits buyers have worked hard to save. The bills vary widely between states, and the ACT has already moved to abolish stamp duty for all first home buyers, a model that reform advocates would like to see considered more broadly.

On the rental front, supply is tightening. Analysis by FoundIt found that 5,447 rental homes were sold in May while only 3,915 were purchased by investors, a net loss of more than 1,500 rental properties in a single month, including 332 across Queensland. Head of research Kent Lardner described the figures as the tip of the iceberg, pointing to recent federal budget changes to how investment earnings are taxed. For South East Queensland renters and investors alike, it is a trend worth watching closely.

Foreign investment in Australian housing has also slowed as the Federal Government's extended ban on purchases of established dwellings takes hold. Around $3.7 billion has flowed into residential property in the financial year to date, equivalent to 2,326 homes, with buyers from China, Taiwan and Vietnam lodging the most applications. Real Estate Institute of Australia president Jacob Caine cautioned that while the restrictions aim to level the playing field for local buyers, they can also reduce the investment that helps underpin housing supply.

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