- The average clearance rate increased to 54.5% in August from 52% in July
- Gold Coast market is performing exceptionally well
- Market remained firm in Brisbane, with average registered bidders higher
Although there was a disconnect between buyers and sellers in July, it appears buyers and sellers have made peace with the auction clearance rate improving.
The latest Apollo Auctions Auction Report found the average clearance rate increased to 54.5%, from 52% in July. This is predominantly due to improved results on the Gold Coast, along with an increase in registered and active bidders.
“Over the past month, perhaps as buyers become more accustomed to the new market conditions as well as interest rate environment, we have seen an uptick in genuine buyers and sellers at auction,” Apollo Auctions Director Justin Nickerson said.
“This is evidenced by the rise in the average number of attendees from 24.9 per cent in July to 32.3 per cent in August. Likewise, registered bidders have increased from 2.7 per auction last month to 3.4 per cent this month.”
“Even the percentage of active bidders is on the rise, with 59.45 per cent raising their paddle at auctions, versus 55 per cent last month.
“All of these metrics, together with the spring selling season upon us, forecasts a stable and successful auction market during the final quarter of this year.”
August 2022 auction results
| Region | Avg. Attended | Avg. Registered | Active Bidding | Sold |
| Brisbane | 28.9 | 3.1 | 52.50% | 62.70% |
| Gold Coast | 31.7 | 4.2 | 55.90% | 66.70% |
| Sydney | 28.1 | 2.6 | 49.40% | 38.60% |
| Perth | 40.5 | 3.8 | 80% | 50% |
| Average | 32.3 | 3.42 | 59.45% | 54.5% |
Source – Apollo Auctions
According to the team of auctioneers at Apollo, there has been a shift in buyer and seller behaviour over the past month, with both parties more genuine on auction day.
“In Brisbane, the auction market held firm in August, which was largely driven by a strong number of average registered bidders per auction coupled with good participation rates,” Mr Nickerson said.
“Whilst not at the frenzied levels of 2021, the current market performance seems stable and sustainable and gives homeowners and purchasers confidence about what lies ahead.”
According to the August data, Gold Coast has clearance rates around 67%, defying the odds.
Notably, the unit segment of the market is witnessing strong demand among buyers and investors.
“Some of the auctions in this category during August resulted in sale prices with results between 15 to 30 per cent above reserve expectations,” Mr Nickerson added.
“In Sydney, auction conditions have definitely improved, with August seeing an increase in crowds, registrations, and active bidding.
“With a solid start to spring on the cards, stock levels are increasing with the risk of days on market also expanding in the Harbour City.”
In Canberra, steady auction conditions are in place, showing that it is not as doom and gloom.
Lastly, Mr Nickerson noted the Perth auction market, which has been at the mercy at low stock levels, is now seeing changes.
“According to our Perth auctioneers, rising sales are soaking up current stock, which is applying pressure to buyers,” Mr Nickerson said.
