What Past Elections Tell Us About the Property Market in 2025
With the upcoming 2025 federal election approaching, many buyers and sellers across Fremantle and greater Perth are asking the same question: how will the election affect the property market? While no one can predict the future with complete certainty, history gives us a few important clues.
Let’s take a look at how past elections have influenced the Western Australian property market—and what that might mean for buyers and sellers preparing for another shift this year.
1. Election Years Often Bring Temporary Uncertainty
Election campaigns often stir up uncertainty, especially when housing policy is a key point of debate. Buyers and sellers tend to wait and see, which can lead to a slowdown in activity in the months leading up to an election.
For example, in 2019, there was hesitation around proposed changes to negative gearing and capital gains tax, especially among investors. In WA, particularly in investment-heavy suburbs like Fremantle and East Fremantle, some buyers sat on their hands, waiting for policy clarity. When the Coalition retained government and policies remained unchanged, confidence rebounded quickly, resulting in a post-election bounce in activity.
Takeaway for 2025: If housing or taxation policy is in the spotlight this year, we may see a short-term cooling in activity followed by a lift after the election, particularly if the result brings certainty.
2. Policy Announcements Can Sway Market Segments
In previous elections, policies targeting first home buyers, investors, or downsizers have led to quick changes in demand within those specific groups.
During the 2022 election, both major parties pitched housing affordability reforms, such as the expansion of the First Home Guarantee and regional housing incentives. These announcements encouraged younger buyers to act faster, particularly in more affordable WA markets. Suburbs like Hilton, Willagee, and Spearwood saw growing interest as buyers raced to secure their place in the market.
Takeaway for 2025: Watch what each party promises. First-home buyer grants, changes to stamp duty, or investor tax tweaks can shift demand quickly, especially in Fremantle’s diverse property landscape.
3. Interest Rates and Economic Confidence Matter More Than Politics
While elections create short-term noise, broader economic conditions tend to drive long-term trends. In 2022, the federal election coincided with the beginning of rapid interest rate hikes from the Reserve Bank. This had a far greater impact on buyer capacity than the election outcome itself.
In Fremantle, where homes range from high-end heritage properties to investment units, borrowing power is a major factor. Sellers should consider that election results may have less effect than inflation or interest rate forecasts in the coming months.
Takeaway for 2025: Don’t wait on politics alone—watch what’s happening with the economy, interest rates, and lending policy.
4. Post-Election Stability Often Boosts Confidence
Once the election is over, stability tends to return quickly, especially if there’s a clear result and minimal disruption to housing policy.
After both the 2019 and 2022 elections, we saw a pickup in buyer and seller confidence across Perth. Many people who delayed decisions during the campaign months re-entered the market, leading to stronger transaction volumes and renewed competition.
Takeaway for 2025: If you’re considering selling, the months immediately after the election may offer a window of opportunity with increased buyer activity.
Final Thoughts: Should You Wait or Act Now?
Whether you’re buying or selling in Fremantle or surrounding suburbs, timing matters—but don’t let politics alone dictate your decision. Each election brings some uncertainty, but history shows that the WA property market remains resilient.
At Empire Property, we’re here to help you navigate the local market confidently, no matter what the election outcome may be. If you’re considering your next move, get in touch—we’d be happy to provide tailored advice and a no-obligation property appraisal.
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