On ‘missing out’ on a more affordable property market
The Adelaide Hills used to be a very stable, slow-growing market. The same can be said for Adelaide in general. This all changed in 2020. The pandemic changed property forever.
For those who got in pre-2020, they bought property at prices that seem ‘cheap’ comparatively today. In March 2020, Mount Barker’s median house price was $430,000. In January 2026, it was $800,000.
We published an article covering the annual growth of 10 popular suburbs in the Adelaide Hills.
The entire region has seen record annual growth between 12-20%. While experts are predicting a ‘soft landing’ at 4-5% annual growth this year, this doesn’t solve the cost-of-living crisis or supply/demand issues.
Housing now accounts for over 51% of median income for Adelaide Hills residents. This is a huge problem. It highlights how housing affordability isn’t just a one-off consideration that exists at the point of purchase. We need to think of housing accessibility not just when buying or renting, but also living and maintaining.
Affordability issues also aren’t isolated to homeowners/aspiring buyers. Our rental market is no more affordable than it is in Sydney, according to 7News. Suburbs that were considered affordable only a few years ago are now out of reach for so many.
Adelaide was long regarded as one of the most affordable property markets in Australia. This is no longer the case. Yet, the city doesn’t offer the jobs or the salaries that the Eastern state cities often do.
What we will say is this:
Even as long-time locals and real estate agents here in the Hills, we don’t have all the answers. Rather, we hope to bring attention and awareness to both the problems and promises of a changing region.
Here’s what we advise our clients, looking to buy a house:
- Start your search 12-24 months before a move. It’s never too early to discuss the best buying strategy.
- Remember, you just need one. One house, one sale. Practice patience and lean on your property coach.
- Buy within your means, but don’t neglect your lifestyle.
- Focus on a radius or region, rather than a specific suburb. Shortlist geographical ‘pockets’ of the Hills you like and consider adjacent areas to popular suburbs.
- Get clear on your numbers – your property value range, deposit, monthly mortgage budget, and additional ownership costs. Work with a mortgage and finance broker.
- Organise your documents – make sure you’re ready to make a quick move, if an opportunity arises. This is especially important if you receive our off-market property listings.
- Do what works for your family. There’s no one ‘right’ path to homeownership.
It’s natural to experience frustration and fear of ‘missing out’ on a more affordable property market – especially if you’re still not ready to buy or the people around you were able to make a move sooner, with a smaller deposit.
Just try to focus on your journey, not others. Put a plan in place with a sales agent (or property manager) so you can start working towards your big move. Momentum is key. You’re not ‘behind.’
As always, we’re here to help when you’re ready.
