Buying a Home Isn’t What Most Expect — Here’s Why

A new snapshot from Cotality (formerly CoreLogic) reveals an interesting truth about Australia’s property market: even the most prepared buyers often find the experience very different from what they imagined.

Most notably, buyers are moving faster than expected — but they’re also feeling more pressure and compromise along the way.

72% found a home faster than expected

78% said settlement took less time than expected

70% had to sacrifice wishlist items to stay within budget

60% experienced more stress than anticipated

Speed, it seems, doesn’t always equal ease.

The Confidence Gap

These numbers highlight a widening confidence gap between buyer expectations and reality. In a competitive market, decisions are made quickly and under pressure — often without the clarity or data needed to feel fully confident.

The result? Many buyers end up reacting to the market rather than shaping their strategy around it.

The Generational Divide

The data also shows clear differences across generations. Gen Z buyers, for example, anticipate more competition, longer timelines and greater stress than their older counterparts:

52% expect the process to be stressful (vs 30% of Gen X)

42% expect to make multiple offers (vs 22% of Boomers)

36% expect settlement to take a long time (vs 20% of Boomers)

Despite being digitally savvy, younger buyers face unique challenges: affordability constraints, limited experience, and an overwhelming flow of online information that often contradicts itself.

Where a Buyer’s Agent Makes the Difference

This is where working with a sophisticated, professional buyer’s agent like Hastings Beaumont becomes transformative.

We bridge the gap between expectation and execution — guiding clients through the process with strategy, foresight and calm precision.

Our approach helps clients:

Move quickly without compromising on quality or confidence

Access off-market opportunities and accurate market intelligence

Negotiate from a position of strength, not pressure

Minimise stress with structured communication and clear guidance

In a market that rewards speed but punishes haste, professional representation is no longer a luxury — it’s an advantage.

The Cotality snapshot shows that buying a home in Australia is faster, more complex, and more emotional than most expect. With the right professional beside you, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming.

At HASTINGS BEAUMONT, we combine insight, access and advocacy — so your property decisions are informed, strategic, and deeply aligned with your goals.