Terry Ryder’s 2026 Property Market Outlook: Why the Experts Will Get It Wrong—Again!

As we head toward 2026, Terry Ryder has released fresh commentary on the state of Australia’s property market—and his message is clear: the big-bank economists are likely to miss the mark once more. While many will forecast price declines or only moderate growth, Ryder suggests the opposite is far more likely.

Prices Set to Rise Across Most Markets
According to Ryder, most jurisdictions are poised for solid price growth, with several expected to exceed 10%.

The drivers behind this momentum are well-established and unlikely to ease anytime soon:

  • Ongoing housing shortages
  • Government stimulus measures
  • High migration levels
  • Active investor participation
  • Major infrastructure spending across the country

Together, these factors continue to place upward pressure on prices even at a time when some analysts anticipate a slowdown.

 

The Standout Growth Leaders for 2026
Ryder identifies several markets that are positioned to outperform the national average next year. The strongest growth is expected in:

  • Melbourne
  • Brisbane
  • Darwin
  • Regional Victoria
  • Regional Tasmania

These areas boast a combination of affordability, demand strength, infrastructure investment and lifestyle appeal—all ingredients of a resilient property market.

 

Tight Vacancies, Moderate Rental Growth
Vacancy rates are tipped to remain exceptionally low, sitting between 1% and 1.5% across many markets.

While this will keep rental demand strong, Ryder expects rental growth to be more moderate, signaling a stabilisation after the rapid rent surges seen in recent years.

 

Final Thoughts
Terry Ryder’s outlook for 2026 paints a familiar picture: despite gloomy predictions from some economic forecasters, the underlying fundamentals of Australia’s property market remain strong. With supply tight, demand high and infrastructure investment booming, the stage is set for another year of positive growth—particularly in key capital cities and well-positioned regional markets.

 

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