The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has held the cash rate at 3.60% for the fourth consecutive month, providing a rare window of stability following two years of rapid tightening. Inflation remains elevated at around 3.8%, and while the RBA has not ruled out future increases in 2026, holding the rate steady gives households and buyers some breathing room.
For sellers, particularly in strong regional markets like Mackay, QLD, this pause is significant. Buyers can now plan with more certainty, and sellers can confidently prepare their campaigns as we move into the new year.
What the Cash Rate Hold Means for Property Sellers
1. Stability Builds Buyer Confidence
When interest rates stabilise, buyers feel more secure about their borrowing capacity. With no sudden rate shocks, enquiry levels typically rise, inspections strengthen, and competition improves. This creates a healthier environment for sellers looking to maximise their result.
2. Borrowing Power Isn’t Improving - Yet
While stability is positive, buyers are not experiencing an uplift in what they can borrow. Lending remains conservative, meaning buyers continue to be price-conscious.
For sellers: premium results will come from exceptional presentation, strong pricing strategy, and high-quality marketing, not from assuming buyers have extra budget.
3. Tight Supply Continues to Support Prices Across Queensland
Low stock levels remain one of the biggest drivers of price resilience. According to recent REIQ insights, most Queensland regions, including Mackay, are still experiencing strong annual growth, fast days-on-market, and competitive buyer activity.
This ongoing undersupply creates urgency and supports firm prices.
Mackay Market Update: Strong, Steady and Tightly Held
Mackay continues to outperform many regional Queensland markets, driven by strong economic fundamentals and sustained population growth.
Recent highlights include:
House price growth above 20% year-on-year (approx. 22%)
Median days on market: just 13 days
Vacancy rates between 0.5%–0.8%
Rental yields among the strongest in Queensland
Mackay’s resilience comes from a diverse local economy supported by:
These industries continue to attract workers, investors, and families—driving steady demand regardless of broader national fluctuations.
What Experts Predict for Mackay in 2026
Industry forecasting remains positive.
SQM Research predicts 7–12% price growth for the Mackay–Whitsunday region in 2026, depending on inflation trends and future RBA decisions.
This positions Mackay as one of Australia's stronger regional markets going into the new year.
What This Means If You’re Thinking of Selling
Advantages for Sellers
Stable rates increase buyer confidence
Strong demand backed by economic growth
Low listing volumes reduce competition
Forecasted growth in 2026 supports firm pricing
Challenges to Consider
Buyers remain cautious and budget-aware
A potential rate rise in 2026 could impact borrowing power
Overpricing remains one of the biggest risks to campaign success
Selling Strategy for a Successful 2026 Campaign
1. Leverage Market Stability
Highlight in your marketing that repayments are now predictable and the market has acclimatised to the current rate environment.
2. Tell Mackay’s Economic Story
Interstate buyers in particular respond strongly to confidence in:
Job creation
Infrastructure pipelines
Rental returns
Vacancy rates
Make this part of your narrative.
3. Strategic Pricing Is Essential
Properties priced correctly from day one attract more enquiry and often generate multiple offers within days.
4. Pick the Right Timing
Early–mid 2026 looks particularly favourable, although personal circumstances should also guide your timing.
Final Thoughts
The RBA’s decision to hold the cash rate provides welcome stability, and Mackay’s market fundamentals remain among the strongest in Queensland. With tight supply, high demand, rapid selling times, and positive forecasts for 2026, conditions continue to favour sellers considering a move in the next 12 months.
If you’d like an accurate update on your home’s value, or tailored advice on the best time to sell, speaking with a trusted local expert is the ideal next step.
