Investor activity has rebounded strongly, and the scale of that resurgence is hard to ignore. Over the past three years, investor loans have increased by 64%, signalling renewed confidence in the property market.

The PropTrack Westpac Investor Report shows that investors are now accounting for a near-record share of loans in South Australia and the Northern Territory. This level of activity reflects strong demand, particularly in markets where rental conditions are tight.

Queensland is a standout. Investor loans are at their highest level since 2004. Western Australia has reached its highest point since 2010, and New South Wales is at levels not seen since 2017.

The driving force behind this is the rental market. Vacancy rates remain low, and rents have been rising quickly. For investors, this translates into stronger yields and improved cash flow.

After a period of softer activity, momentum picked up again in the second half of 2025. While Victoria remains below its long-term average in terms of investor lending share, the broader national trend is clearly upward.

One of the more interesting insights is where investors are focusing their attention. Nearly half of all online property searches from investors are for properties priced below $700,000. This suggests a strong preference for affordability and value.

Compared to other buyer groups, investors are more price-conscious. Around 45% of first home buyers search in that price range, while only 21% of existing homeowners do the same. Investors are clearly targeting opportunities where the numbers stack up.

For markets like Brisbane, this is significant. The city still offers relative affordability compared to Sydney and Melbourne, along with strong rental demand. That combination is attracting both local and interstate investors.

However, increased competition means that simply entering the market is not enough. The quality of the asset and the strength of the location matter more than ever.

Suburb selection is critical. Areas with strong tenant demand, good transport links and proximity to employment hubs are more likely to deliver consistent returns.

For interstate investors, local knowledge becomes a key advantage. Understanding which areas are genuinely performing, rather than those driven by short-term hype, can make a significant difference.

The current environment favours strategic buyers who are prepared to act decisively. With demand rising and supply remaining constrained, the right opportunities are being secured quickly.

Investor activity is back, and it is reshaping the market once again. For those who approach it with the right strategy, there is still plenty of opportunity to be found.