Queensland Property Market Update – April 2025

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Why This Market Update Matters for Buyers and Sellers

If you’ve been eyeing the Queensland property market, April 2025 has offered some compelling insights. Whether you’re buying, selling, or investing, staying on top of market trends is more important than ever. Property prices, interest rates, regional growth, and government incentives are all shaping how Queenslanders make real estate decisions.

At Nationwide Conveyancing, we’ve been closely monitoring the latest changes so we can guide our clients through the market with confidence. This isn’t just another snapshot of prices—it’s a breakdown of what’s really happening across the Sunshine State, and what it means for you.

Overall Market Performance in April 2025

Median House and Unit Prices Across Queensland

Queensland’s property market continued its steady upward trend in April 2025, with notable resilience compared to other states. According to recent data, the median house price in Brisbane climbed to approximately $820,000, while regional markets such as the Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast held strong with medians around $850,000 and $780,000, respectively.

Unit prices also saw a moderate rise. Brisbane’s median unit price reached $540,000, supported by high demand for inner-city living and lifestyle-driven downsizing. Meanwhile, units in regional areas like Townsville and Cairns experienced subtle increases, buoyed by a surge in interstate migration.

Compared to April 2024, the overall Queensland property market has seen an average annual increase of 6.8%, with units slightly outperforming detached houses in growth rate—thanks to affordability constraints pushing buyers toward more compact living.

Regional vs. Metropolitan Trends

Brisbane remains Queensland’s strongest performer, but the gap between city and region is narrowing. Buyers are increasingly turning to regional centers such as Toowoomba, Rockhampton, and Hervey Bay, driven by lifestyle appeal, infrastructure projects, and relative affordability.

The Sunshine Coast saw a slight cooling after two years of explosive growth, but demand remains well above pre-COVID levels. Similarly, the Gold Coast showed balanced activity, with robust investor interest particularly in new high-rise developments.

Buyers seeking value for money are increasingly looking at regional Queensland not just as a fallback, but as a strategic investment.

Key Drivers of Market Activity

Interest Rates and Inflation Impact

Australia’s Reserve Bank held interest rates steady in April, following hikes throughout 2024 aimed at reining in inflation. While rates remain relatively high compared to 2022–23, market confidence is returning as the rate cycle appears to have peaked.

This has given both buyers and sellers more certainty, fueling transactions across all price brackets. However, borrowing capacity remains lower than in previous years, which is driving demand toward units and affordable suburbs.

Government Incentives and First Homebuyer Activity

One of the most talked-about drivers in April 2025 is the First Home (New Home) Transfer Duty Concession, which went live on May 1. Anticipation of the scheme caused a spike in off-the-plan purchases and new home interest in March and April, particularly from younger buyers and couples entering the market for the first time.

Nationwide Conveyancing has seen a clear uptick in enquiries from eligible first-home buyers eager to save on transfer duty—a cost that often represents one of the biggest barriers to entry.

Brisbane Property Market Insights

Growth in High-Demand Suburbs

Brisbane’s inner suburbs like West End, New Farm, and Highgate Hill continue to command premium prices, but it’s the middle-ring suburbs—such as Carina, Stafford, and Chermside—that are seeing the fastest growth. These areas offer better affordability, access to transport and schools, and strong capital growth potential.

New infrastructure projects, like Cross River Rail and upgrades to the Brisbane Metro, are further enhancing property values in connected suburbs.

Unit Market Resurgence

2025 is shaping up to be the year of the unit. After years of underperformance compared to houses, Brisbane’s unit market is rebounding, with values rising faster than standalone homes in many areas.

Several factors contribute to this:

  • First-home buyers are priced out of houses and pivoting to apartments.
  • Downsizers are selling large homes and buying lifestyle-friendly units.
  • Investors are targeting units for their higher rental yields in a tight market.

Nationwide Conveyancing is processing an increasing number of apartment contracts, especially in new developments across Fortitude Valley, South Brisbane, and Albion.

Regional Queensland Overview

Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast Performance

April 2025 brought steady, though more moderated, growth across Queensland’s most sought-after coastal regions. The Sunshine Coast, which saw massive spikes in price growth during the pandemic years, is now stabilizing. Median house prices in suburbs like Buderim and Maroochydore hovered around $890,000, with minor monthly fluctuations, signaling a more balanced market.

In contrast, the Gold Coast remains a hotbed of investor and interstate interest. Suburbs such as Southport, Coomera, and Robina are seeing continued demand, especially for off-the-plan units and townhouses. The recent influx of young professionals and retirees from Victoria and New South Wales is supporting property values and rental demand.

Infrastructure projects like the Coomera Connector and continued expansion of the light rail are adding long-term value to the Gold Coast corridor, positioning it as one of the most dynamic regions in Queensland.

Growth Corridors in Central and Northern QLD

Regions such as Mackay, Rockhampton, and Townsville have become attractive due to their relative affordability, proximity to mining and industrial hubs, and rising rental yields.

In particular, Townsville reported a year-on-year price increase of over 7%, fueled by major defense investments and regional relocation incentives. Similarly, Cairns saw heightened tourism-related interest, making it a popular choice for short-stay investors.

Nationwide Conveyancing has handled a noticeable uptick in transactions in these regional cities, with buyers drawn by the balance of affordability, rental potential, and lifestyle.

Rental Market Trends

Vacancy Rates and Rent Price Movements

Queensland’s rental market remained tight throughout April, with average vacancy rates below 1% in major cities like Brisbane and the Gold Coast. Tenants continue to face intense competition, and landlords are leveraging the environment with rental increases.

Median weekly rents in Brisbane have climbed to $620 for houses and $520 for units, while the Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast follow closely behind. Regional towns are also experiencing growth in rental demand, especially in locations close to employment centers or with university campuses.

Investor Confidence and Yield Expectations

For property investors, April brought renewed confidence. Yield expectations remain strong in both metro and regional markets, particularly in the unit segment. Brisbane and Logan are offering gross rental yields around 4.5%–5% for well-located apartments.

With low vacancy and high rent growth, many investors are re-entering the market after a period of caution in 2024. Nationwide Conveyancing has facilitated an increasing number of investment purchases, including multi-dwelling developments and dual-income properties in growth corridors.

First Home Buyer Landscape

The Effect of the New Transfer Duty Concession

The Queensland Government’s First Home (New Home) Transfer Duty Concession, effective May 1, has already had an indirect impact. While the policy came into effect after April, the pre-launch buzz spurred activity throughout the month as eligible buyers lined up contracts to ensure they’d qualify.

This duty exemption has significantly boosted first-home buyer interest in new builds and substantially renovated homes under $800,000. Builders and developers are adjusting marketing strategies accordingly, and many projects are being fast-tracked to meet demand.

Suburbs First Home Buyers Are Targeting

Popular areas for first-home buyers in April 2025 include:

  • Springfield and Ipswich: Offering land packages and affordable new builds.
  • Logan and Marsden: Known for accessibility and price.
  • North Lakes and Mango Hill: Emerging hotspots with solid infrastructure and schools.

Nationwide Conveyancing’s fixed-fee services have become a go-to solution for these buyers, streamlining the legal process in what is often their first property purchase.

Property Development and Construction Outlook

New Approvals and Project Launches

Queensland saw a rise in building approvals in March and April, particularly for units and townhouse developments. Developers are capitalizing on the first-home concession and tightening rental market by accelerating launches in growth corridors.

In Brisbane, several high-density projects in the inner north and west have entered the pre-sale phase, targeting both owner-occupiers and investors.

Meanwhile, regional areas like Hervey Bay and Gympie are experiencing smaller-scale townhouse and duplex developments tailored to downsizers and FIFO workers.

Supply Chain and Cost Factors

Construction costs remain elevated due to lingering global supply chain disruptions and skilled labor shortages. However, prices have started to stabilize, and developers are cautiously optimistic about delivery timelines in 2025.

Buyers are advised to carefully review sunset clauses and construction timeframes in off-the-plan contracts. Nationwide Conveyancing offers in-depth contract reviews to help purchasers identify potential risks before signing.

Real Estate Industry and Conveyancing Trends

Digital Settlement Platforms

April 2025 marked further advancements in Queensland’s adoption of digital property transactions. The majority of settlements processed by Nationwide Conveyancing this month were completed through online platforms like PEXA, showcasing the industry’s shift toward tech-driven efficiency.

Buyers and sellers now expect faster processing, real-time tracking, and fewer paperwork delays. For Nationwide Conveyancing clients, this has meant smoother transactions, reduced error rates, and shorter settlement periods.

Increased Demand for Fixed-Fee Conveyancing

With budget certainty more crucial than ever, especially for first-time buyers and investors, fixed-fee conveyancing has become the preferred model in April 2025. Clients are demanding transparent pricing, comprehensive service, and expert advice—without unexpected charges.

Nationwide Conveyancing has seen a surge in demand for its fixed-price solutions, helping clients confidently navigate everything from first home purchases to complex investor deals.

What This Means for Buyers

Opportunities in a Competitive Market

Despite price growth, April has shown that buying opportunities still exist, especially for those ready to move quickly. Unit prices, regional markets, and new developments offer strong value in 2025.

With the introduction of the new transfer duty concession, buyers who act fast on eligible homes could save thousands in upfront costs. Pre-approvals are more critical than ever, as demand for affordable, eligible homes is extremely high.

Nationwide Conveyancing recommends all buyers:

  • Obtain pre-approval before property hunting
  • Secure legal advice before signing contracts
  • Consider suburbs just outside of major metro centers for better value

The Importance of Pre-Approval and Due Diligence

Lenders have tightened criteria amid lingering economic uncertainty, so buyers must have their finances in order. Pre-approval allows for swift negotiations and improved chances of acceptance in competitive bidding scenarios.

Due diligence is also vital—whether it’s confirming a home’s eligibility for the duty concession, checking planning permissions, or reviewing strata by-laws. With Nationwide Conveyancing’s support, you can buy with confidence and clarity.

What This Means for Sellers

Pricing Strategies and Selling Timeframes

Sellers who entered the market in April experienced fast turnaround times for well-priced listings. Homes in popular suburbs like Carindale, Kenmore, and Upper Coomera often received multiple offers within the first two weeks of listing.

However, pricing is key. Buyers are still cautious, and overpriced listings are sitting longer. Nationwide Conveyancing advises sellers to work with agents familiar with current market sentiment and price trends.

How to Stand Out in the Current Market

Staging and presentation are critical in a competitive market. So is documentation—having building and pest reports ready, clear titles, and property disclosures can make or break a deal.

With Nationwide Conveyancing managing your sale, you’ll have your legal obligations covered from day one, helping your property sell faster and at better terms.

Legal and Conveyancing Considerations

Risks with Off-the-Plan Purchases

While new builds are popular due to the concession and affordability, they come with risks—particularly in construction delays, cost blowouts, or contract complexities.

Nationwide Conveyancing provides expert reviews of off-the-plan contracts, helping buyers understand terms such as sunset clauses, deposit structures, and post-completion settlement risks.

Nationwide’s Role in Smooth Settlements

Whether you’re buying or selling, a trusted conveyancer can save you time, money, and stress. At Nationwide Conveyancing, we handle:

  • Title searches and due diligence
  • Government grant applications and stamp duty concessions
  • Settlement coordination
  • Legal advice on contracts and disclosures

Our team ensures your transaction complies with Queensland law—and moves forward without hiccups.

Predictions for the Rest of 2025

Market Stabilisation or Continued Growth?

Looking ahead, Queensland’s market is likely to remain stable with moderate price growth through mid to late 2025. The impact of government incentives, infrastructure projects, and tight rental markets will continue to support demand.

However, macroeconomic factors—like potential interest rate cuts or further migration boosts—could accelerate activity, especially in outer metro and regional areas.

Investors, first-home buyers, and upgraders will all remain active, with new home and unit markets leading the charge.

Conclusion: Navigating the 2025 Property Market with Confidence

April 2025 has been a month of both opportunity and adjustment in Queensland’s property landscape. While prices continue to rise modestly, government concessions and stabilizing interest rates are giving buyers renewed confidence.

Whether you’re a first-time buyer looking to leverage transfer duty savings, an investor chasing rental yields, or a seller trying to time the market—expert guidance is key. At Nationwide Conveyancing, we’re here to simplify the process, safeguard your interests, and ensure your property journey is seamless from start to finish.

FAQs

1. Is 2025 a good year to buy in QLD?
Yes. With transfer duty concessions, stabilizing interest rates, and high rental yields, it’s an ideal time—especially for new and regional homes.

2. What are the most affordable regions in QLD right now?
Ipswich, Logan, Toowoomba, and parts of Central Queensland offer strong value and long-term growth potential.

3. Has the First Home Concession changed the market?
Absolutely. Demand for new and substantially renovated homes has spiked since the concession was announced, pushing developers to respond.

4. Should I buy now or wait for prices to fall?
There’s no strong indication prices will drop significantly. Buying now—especially with available incentives—can lock in value and avoid future price hikes.

5. How can a conveyancer help in today’s market?
From contract reviews to applying for government grants, a conveyancer ensures your transaction is legally sound and stress-free. Nationwide Conveyancing offers end-to-end support tailored to your needs.

This is general advice only.