Investor activity in the Australian property market has reached an eight-year high, with approximately one in seven Australians now owning a rental property. The latest REA PropTrack Terri Scheer Investor Report reveals a steady rise in new investor lending, particularly strong in Queensland and South Australia where lending increased by 16%.

New South Wales and Western Australia also saw significant growth, with investor loans rising 12% and 10%, respectively. Victoria is witnessing a return of investors with a 9% increase in lending, despite having experienced a decline over the past two years due to higher State Government fees and levies.

The Australian Capital Territory is the only capital city with a decline in investment loans, down 15% from the previous financial year.

Carolyn Parrella, Executive Manager at Terri Scheer, highlights that the current market favors sellers. “With more than 90% of investment properties selling for more than their purchase price, this environment could present a lucrative opportunity for property investors,” she says.

Investor enthusiasm signals confidence in property markets, but also reflects the ongoing demand for rental properties across Australia.