As we move into 2026, many buyers are asking the same question: should I wait, or should I act now? With headlines full of speculation and mixed signals, it is easy to feel uncertain. But history and experience tell us that successful property decisions are rarely about perfectly timing the market and far more about timing your own life.
When asked about 2026, our very own Francesca Blackwell advises, “Don’t wait, don’t try and play the market. If it’s the right time in your life to be purchasing a property for whatever reason, go ahead and do it next year.” Mayfield’s Laura Hull also adds, “Run your own race and ignore the noise.”
That advice is particularly relevant right now. Many buyers are sitting on the sidelines, waiting for clearer signals. What experts are seeing instead is best described as a pause in the market where activity slows, competition softens and opportunities quietly emerge. Director Paul Cavarra states, “When there’s a pause in the market, that’s the time to buy something because those pauses change really, really quickly.”
But pausing doesn’t last. Confidence returns, buyers re-enter and conditions can tighten again fast. Those who are prepared and decisive during quieter periods often secure better outcomes than those who wait for absolute certainty.
Preparation is everything. In 2026, simply having interest in a property will not be enough. Buyers benefit from having a clear brief of what they want, a well-understood borrowing capacity, and pre-approval in place so they can act quickly when the right opportunity appears. Understanding your finance landscape well before a purchase helps you assess what you can realistically afford and reduces the risk of missing out.
Entering the market this year also means accounting for all costs well ahead of time. Beyond a purchase price, there are stamps duties, legal fees and inspection costs to consider, and these should all be reflected in your budget before you begin negotiations.
At Mayfield Property Buyers, we help you cut through the noise, understand real conditions on the ground and make confident decisions that align to your goals, not market hype. If buying makes sense for you in 2026, the key is not waiting for the perfect moment, but being ready to act when the right opportunity presents itself.
In property, the best results often go to those who are prepared and confident enough to move while others are still waiting and wondering.
Ready to take the stress out of your next property purchase? Get in touch with us