Buyers in South Australia remain steadfast as property auctions continue right up to Christmas, with real estate agents reporting strong activity in the market. According to data from Realestate.com.au, auctions are scheduled throughout the state until December 23, with at least one set for December 27, indicating a significant shift in seasonal buying habits.
Agents like Martin Betts of Turner Real Estate are preparing for auctions on December 23 at notable addresses such as 24 Snowdon Ave, Salisbury East, and 79 Moldavia Walk, Osborne. Betts emphasizes that motivated buyers are undeterred by the holiday season. “There’s plenty of activity out there still. People desperate to find something don’t take a day off,” he stated.
The current market reflects a notable contrast to a decade ago when sales typically slowed during the festive period. Betts notes the ongoing demand stems from a lack of available properties. He explains, “Good properties in high-demand areas will always sell well and attract a great deal of interest.” The holiday season has not dissuaded many potential buyers, particularly those relocating for jobs, including essential services personnel such as nurses and police officers.
Another agent, Justin Irving from Ray White, echoes this sentiment as he prepares to auction two properties on December 23 at 19b Ballard Rd, Smithfield Plains, and 1/40 Traverse Ave, Salisbury North. Irving has experienced success with auctions leading up to Christmas in previous years and expects a similar outcome this year. “Last year we ran auctions right up until Christmas and had great success,” he remarked. “We’ve got six auctions from tonight till the 23rd, and I think the last 53 auctions we’ve had, we sold 52 on the day of auction.”
Despite the busy schedule, agents agree that they would not conduct auctions on Christmas Day or Boxing Day. However, they see no issue with holding auctions on December 22 and December 23, as the demand remains high. Irving highlights that being on the market during the Christmas break can provide significant visibility for sellers. “The period between Christmas Eve and New Year’s Day is the most viewed time on Realestate.com.au,” he noted.
As the year draws to a close, the real estate landscape in South Australia remains active. Four auctions are already listed for December 23 in metropolitan Adelaide, and a four-bedroom home at 2 Hull St, Elizabeth East, is set to go under the hammer on December 27, marking it as the only auction booked between Christmas and New Year.
Following the holiday season, the first auctions of the new year are slated for January 9, 2024, with nine properties expected to be auctioned, primarily in Adelaide’s northern suburbs. This ongoing activity in the property market suggests that buyer enthusiasm remains unaffected by traditional seasonal slowdowns, underscoring a robust demand for real estate in South Australia.
