This is one of the most common questions GeeVee receives — and the honest answer depends on four things: your suburb’s current price trend, your personal financial position, your next move, and your timeline.
What the Market Is Saying in 2026
Inner-north Melbourne is a two-speed market. Ivanhoe and Northcote are in vendor-favourable conditions with strong auction clearance rates and motivated buyers. Preston and Thornbury have softer conditions — more stock, fewer bidders, more room for buyers to negotiate.
The national picture per Herron Todd White March 2026: Melbourne inner suburbs are in the rising phase of the property cycle. Selling now captures recent gains but selling in 12-18 months may capture further upside — if rates fall as forecast.
When Selling Now Makes Sense
- Your suburb is in a seller’s market (clearance rates above 70%)
- You are upgrading and can buy your next property before competition heats up
- You need to crystallise equity for another purpose (investment, retirement, SMSF)
- You are selling an investment property approaching the 12-month CGT threshold
When Waiting Makes Sense
- Your suburb is in a buyer’s market (clearance rates below 60%)
- Interest rates are forecast to fall in the next 6-12 months (improving buyer affordability)
- You have not held for 12 months (you will pay full CGT, not the 50% discount)
- Major infrastructure in your suburb is mid-construction — completing it adds value
The GeeVee Timing Framework
| Signal | Sell Now | Wait |
|---|---|---|
| Auction clearance rate | Above 70% | Below 60% |
| Days on market | Under 21 days | Over 35 days |
| Interest rate direction | Rising (sell before buyers pull back) | Falling (wait for improved buyer affordability) |
| CGT holding period | Over 12 months (50% discount applies) | Under 12 months (avoid full CGT) |
| Your next move | Clear, funded, ready | Unclear or requires bridging |
Ask GeeVee: Get a Personalised Sell Timing Analysis
GeeVee can analyse your specific suburb’s clearance rates, price trend, and seasonal timing to give you a personalised recommendation.
Access GeeVee free: collings.com.au/portal
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