Overview

• Australian dwelling values rose 0.7% in August to a median A$848,858, the fastest monthly gain since May 2024, with increases in most capitals and only Hobart edging lower.
• Advertised housing stock in Australia is about 20% below seasonal norms, a supply squeeze Cotality says is putting upward pressure on prices as sales and auction clearance rates improve.
• The Reserve Bank of Australia has cut interest rates three times this year (February, May, August), lifting borrowing capacity, while the national rental vacancy rate sat near 1.5% in August.
• An alternative gauge from Proptrack reports house prices at a record level after eight consecutive monthly increases, with a national house median around A$835,000.
• In the UK, Nationwide recorded a 0.1% monthly fall in August to £271,079 as stretched affordability and higher mortgage servicing costs weigh on demand, with pre‑Budget property‑tax speculation adding to uncertainty.