'A sign of returning confidence': ACT agents on how this winter selling season will be different

Winter has arrived and the big chill has rolled in on the back of the COVID-19 pandemic and into a new range of government incentives aimed at the building industry. In the middle, making sense of it all are sellers, agents and buyers.

Josh Morrissey of HIVE Property believes everyone is taking it in their stride.

“We’ve never been busier – we’re seeing more stock starting to come onto the market and there’s a ready pool of buyers,” he says.

“That’s a sign of returning confidence.”

Morrissey says recent federal and ACT government building stimulus measures – including renovation grants and stamp duty exemptions – have also delivered a boost.

“The home-buyer reaction was instantaneous. I had six immediately call me regarding off-the-plan purchases,” he says.

“I think we are also going to see a big rise in renovations that will lead to even more homes coming onto the market.”

Mihailo Dragicevic of PRD Canberra says winter is that season where agents have routinely encouraged sellers to go to market because there’s usually less competition.

“But it seems to have boomed over the past few weeks,” he says.

“We’ve been flat out with home opens – with the now routine restrictions – and the numbers are significantly up on this time of year.”

Dragicevic says increased competition is good for the market and sellers.

“It prompts buyers to make quicker decisions and often delivers better prices,” he says.

“There’s definitely more confidence and we’re seeing that in our auction attendances and clearance rates.”

• Stimulus. The federal and ACT governments have announced a range of measures to help support the building sector. Home owner and buyer support include renovation grants and stamp duty exemptions. Time to act?
• Early movers. There could be an advantage in going to market early while other home owners consider a renovation refresh. Confidence may be returning, but supply is still tight – that can mean stronger prices.
• Get it right. Homes need to be presented for winter sales – buyers are paying attention to energy efficiency, heating, double glazing, insulation and more. Aim to deliver a “warm and cosy” home.

Allhomes’ top pick of homes on the market early winter:

Campbell

View property

The Statesman is one of three luxury homes in this boutique Hamptons-influenced development, designed by Terry Ring of Architects Ring & Associates.

It is defined by its majestic facade, highlighted by two wings that draw the eye toward a central flight of steps and double entry doors.

These lead into a light-filled foyer – and light is the narrative strand that connects every space in this two-storey classic.

The left wing comprises a generous formal living room with open gas fire. Behind it is a side-access double garage.

The other ground floor wing comprises the kitchen, casual dining and family room – highlighted by another open gas fire.

The kitchen is big, white and beautiful. It features 40-millimetre stone benchtops and a blackbutt timber breakfast bar. Appliances include an induction cooktop, oven, microwave, integrated fridge and a semi-integrated dishwasher.

Upstairs, the main suite muscles up with its own balcony and a very roomy walk-in wardrobe. Custom cabinetry and an island dresser with a blackbutt timber benchtop deliver the glamour. The en suite has underfloor heating, a free-standing bath, double marble vanity and twin showers. The other bedrooms are generously sized with built-in robes.

Other features include ducted, zoned heating and cooling, double-glazed windows and sliding doors, and a security system.

Outdoors enjoys a covered entertaining area with feature skylights. The garden is fully landscaped with irrigation and a 2500-litre water tank.

Price guide: $2 million +

Private sale

Agent: HIVE Property, Josh Morrissey 0437 799 234