What’s causing Perth’s listings log jam? 

As seen in The West Real Estate

In last week’s column I said the availability of properties to purchase would be one of the key factors driving the market into 2026. New listings have been significantly below long-term averages over the last six months, with Perth’s property market experiencing a listings log jam. There are several reasons for this. 

People do want to sell, but with the speed of sales and relatively low availability of homes, they are concerned about finding somewhere else to live. 

They don’t want to be rushed into buying a new property, and it remains challenging to find a short-term rental, especially if you need to stay in a certain area for work or schooling reasons. As a result, they are hesitant about selling. 

Financial factors are deterring some potential sellers. People who already have a home may be able to get a very good price for it if they sell, but upgrading to a new property is very likely to see them extend their mortgage by several hundred thousand dollars. In addition, the significant cost of stamp duty – $42,615.50 for a $1 million home - adds to financial considerations. 

If you are thinking of selling, speak to your REIWA agent about how to make the process easier. For example, you may want to set a longer settlement period or ask for a rent back option to give you time to find another home. You may want to consider listing on the condition that you find a new home first. 

Inefficiency within the established homes market is also contributing to the availability of properties for sale. There are many potential downsizers living in family-sized homes that are simply too big for their needs, and it’s these types of homes that are very sought-after by buyers.   

A reiwa.com 2025 Housing Issues Survey found 63 per cent of respondents reported stamp duty was a barrier to downsizing. For many downsizers, the prospect of paying thousands of dollars in upfront transaction costs is a clear deterrent to moving and the alternative is to remain where they are. 

REIWA has called for a $10,000 stamp duty concession for eligible downsizers in its 2026-27 State Budget submission to help encourage some much-needed mobility within the market. 

In addition, feedback from downsizers is they would like to stay in their local area, but there is a lack of suitable homes. Anecdotally, many indicate they would prefer medium-density options, such as villas and townhouses, rather than apartments. REIWA would like to see more State Government support for medium density infill, such extending the Infrastructure Development Fund and applying it to medium density developments. 

Suzanne Brown
REIWA President