Adelaide’s September Market Wrap: Clearance Rates, Values and What It Means for You
By Altus Realty · 14 Oct 2026 · 4 min read
Spring is traditionally Adelaide’s busiest time of year for property, and September 2026 certainly delivered plenty of activity. But the numbers also showed a market that has shifted gear since the record highs of May. Auction volumes rose, clearance rates stayed soft and values eased for a fourth consecutive month.
Here’s a look at what happened in September and what it could mean for you.
Auction clearance rates: more auctions, fewer results under the hammer
According to Cotality’s weekly auction results, Adelaide’s final clearance rate moved between roughly 36% and 49% through September:
| Week ending | Auctions held | Clearance rate |
|---|---|---|
| 6 September | 94 | 36.2% |
| 13 September | 79 | 49.4% |
| 20 September | 112 | 46.4% |
| 27 September | 103 | 39.3% (preliminary) |
Source: Cotality final and preliminary clearance rate reports, September 2026. REISA’s adjusted clearance rate for the week ending 27 September was 43%.
For context, the same week a year earlier (week ending 20 September 2025) saw Adelaide clear 82.1% of auctions. Cotality noted the 35.7 percentage point annual fall was the largest of any capital city.
At the same time, auction volumes were higher than a year ago in the second half of the month, so more vendors are choosing auction in a market where buyers have more time and more choice.
Values eased 1.3% in September
Cotality’s Home Value Index (released 1 October) showed Adelaide dwelling values fell 1.3% in September and 2.7% over the quarter. Adelaide is now around 2.9% below its May 2026 peak.
It’s important to keep that in perspective. Adelaide values were still 6.5% higher than a year ago, compared with a 1.8% annual fall across the combined capitals. Adelaide’s median dwelling value sat at around $928,560 at the end of September.
Interest rates moved higher
On 29 September the Reserve Bank lifted the cash rate by 25 basis points to 4.60%. The RBA pointed to elevated inflation and higher global energy prices. For many households, that means higher repayments and, for buyers, potentially a lower borrowing capacity, which helps explain why buyers are taking a more measured approach.
What it means for sellers
- Pricing matters more than ever. With more listings for buyers to compare, realistic price expectations based on recent local sales are essential.
- Method of sale deserves a conversation. Auction can still work well for the right property, but private treaty or a set-date sale may suit others better in the current market.
- Presentation and preparation count. Buyers have time to compare, so the homes that are well presented, well marketed and well priced tend to stand out.
What it means for buyers
For buyers, conditions are more balanced than they have been for some time. There is more choice, less urgency and often more room to negotiate on price and terms. Getting your finance in order early is important, especially after the latest rate rise.
What it means for investors
Adelaide’s rental market remains tight, with SQM Research reporting a vacancy rate of around 0.6%. Strong rental demand continues to support investment property in many parts of Adelaide and the northern suburbs, although investors should carefully consider borrowing costs and recent tax changes before buying.
Thinking about your next move?
Every suburb and every property is different, and city-wide figures don’t always reflect what is happening on your street. If you’d like to understand what the current market means for your property, the Altus team is always happy to have an honest conversation.
This article provides general information only and is not financial advice. Market figures are from third-party sources and may be revised.
