For this month’s real estate feature, we spoke with Sam Battel from McGrath Estate Agents.
Working closely with buyers and sellers across Brisbane, Sam has built a strong reputation for his honest approach, local knowledge and ability to guide clients through fast moving market conditions. With a background in high performance sales and a focus on building genuine relationships, he brings a practical, on the ground perspective to what is really happening in today’s market.
We asked Sam what he is seeing right now, where buyers are getting it wrong and what it actually takes to secure a property in the current environment.
1. What’s the biggest misconception buyers currently have about the Brisbane property market? Are you seeing people approach the market with expectations that don’t match what’s actually happening on the ground?
This question is all about timing. As a buyer entering the market for the first time, you may be unfamiliar with the current low-stock, high-demand environment. You will quickly realise that most open homes have a line-up, multiple other buyers are making competitive offers, and you must have your ducks in a row to be seriously considered. Having market research under your belt, a pre-approval (or a strong understanding of your financial position), and confidence will be instrumental to your success.
2. How important is speed in this market and what does being “ready to buy” actually look like for a buyer today? What practical steps should buyers have in place before they start inspecting properties?
As indicated above, timing is critical if you want to boost your chances of securing your dream home and avoid that unwanted feeling of regret. Speak to your financial team or advisers and work on finalising a pre-approval early. Talk to a local real estate agent about your goals and budget to better understand what’s realistic and save yourself time. If you have a home to sell, again, speak to an agent about realistic timeframes and to your mortgage broker about the most appropriate financial structure.
3. Are buyers having to compromise more than they expected to secure a property? If so, what are the most common compromises you’re seeing right now, such as location, property type, renovation potential or price?
Ambition and budget are where we see most buyers go wrong. We all start with a dream until we realise we cannot afford all the bells and whistles. Typically, one key compromise is required, either location or property. Ask yourself what is most important: the perfect home in a less desirable location, or a “make do for now” option that you can renovate later in your ideal suburb?
4. What separates buyers who successfully secure a property in this market from those who keep missing out? From your experience, what behaviours or strategies give buyers the biggest advantage?
Aside from simply paying more for a property, and potentially overpaying, there are a number of strategies you can apply to improve your chances of securing the best deal:
• Do your research. Spend time understanding what is selling in your area, visit open homes, and learn why some properties achieve higher prices than others.
• Speak to local agents. We are not scary, or at least most of us are not. Flag your interest and ask if there are any properties you should be considering, either on or off market.
• Ask questions about the sale. Understand what is important to the vendor, whether it be price, timing, or clean conditions, to help position your offer above the competition.
Sam’s insights highlight just how important preparation and timing have become in the current Brisbane market. With strong competition continuing across most segments, buyers who understand their position and act with confidence are the ones giving themselves the best chance.
For many, it is also a reminder that flexibility plays a big role. Knowing what to prioritise and where to compromise can often be the difference between securing a property and continuing to miss out.
In a market like this, having the right guidance and a clear plan in place can make the entire process feel far more manageable.
