You know how every June rolls around and suddenly everyone is talking about tax time and getting their finances in order?
Well, there’s actually a property angle to all this that most people completely miss.
I’ve spent 25 years in architecture and property development, and now, as a buyer’s agent across Sydney, I’ve noticed something interesting.
The people who make their best property decisions often do their thinking around EOFY. Not because of some magical tax benefit, but because it’s one of the few times each year when people actually stop and think:
“Am I happy with where I’m living?”
“Is my property situation working for me?”
So here’s my question for you:
Where are you right now with property, and where do you want to be in 12 months?
If You’re a Property Investor
Let’s be honest about Sydney’s investment market right now. It’s not the free-for-all it was a few years back. You actually need to think about what you’re buying and why.
EOFY is the perfect time to take a hard look at your portfolio. I’m seeing a real split happening.
Some investors are sitting on properties that are performing beautifully, while others are wondering why their “investment” feels more like a burden.
Questions to ask yourself:
- When did you last actually visit your investment properties?
- Are your tenants the kind of people you’d want living next door?
- If you were renting today, would you choose your own properties?
- Do you even remember why you bought where you bought?
- Are your properties still in areas you’d invest in today?
Action steps to take:
- Get current market appraisals and rental assessments for all your properties
- Research comparable rentals in your area to see how competitive your properties are
- Check local council development applications for upcoming changes
- Look at recent sales data for similar properties in your area
- Consider whether your current property manager is delivering results
- Speak with your accountant about the timing of any portfolio changes
If You’re Trying to Buy Your First Home
Buying your first place in Sydney feels pretty overwhelming right now, doesn’t it?
But here’s what I’ve learned: the people who get it right aren’t necessarily the ones with the biggest budgets. They’re the ones who really think about how they want to live.
EOFY is actually a smart time to get serious about your first home search. While everyone else is focused on tax returns, you can get your finances clear and start your research without the spring rush.
Questions to ask yourself:
- What’s your actual daily routine? How do you get to work? Where do you shop? Where do your friends live?
- Are you buying what you think you should want, or what would actually make you happy?
- Can you see yourself still living there in five years, or are you buying the cheapest option as a stepping stone?
- What suburbs could realistically work for your lifestyle, not your budget alone?
- Do you know the difference between what you can comfortably afford and what the bank will lend you?
Action steps to take:
- Get pre-approved now so you know your exact budget before the spring market hits
- Research specific government grants with your mortgage broker and understand the deadlines
- Visit open homes in your preferred suburbs to get a clearer picture of what your budget can actually buy
- Test your commute from potential suburbs during peak hour, not just weekends
- Check school zones even if you don’t have kids yet (impacts resale value)
- Look at recent sales data for similar properties to understand realistic pricing
- Consider engaging a buyer’s agent if you’re feeling overwhelmed by the process
If You’re Thinking About Downsizing
The thing about downsizing is that it’s not really about the size of the place. It’s about finding somewhere that suits how you want to live now.
Questions to ask yourself:
- What would actually make your life easier day to day?
- Do you want to stay in your area, or is this your chance to try somewhere new?
- How much maintenance and gardening do you realistically want to deal with?
- Are there family or friends you’d like to be closer to?
- What accessibility features might you need now or in the future?
- Are you downsizing for financial reasons, lifestyle reasons, or both?
Action steps to take:
- Get a realistic market valuation of your current property
- Visit properties in areas that interest you
- Consider accessibility features: single-level living, bathroom access, and easy parking
- Look for well-designed spaces that feel spacious, even if technically smaller
- Research the community and amenities in potential new areas
- Speak with your financial adviser about superannuation implications
- Consider maintenance requirements versus your energy levels
If Your Family’s Outgrowing Your Current Place
This is probably the most emotional property decision you’ll make. You’re thinking about your kids having enough space, good schools, maybe a backyard where they can actually play.
Questions to ask yourself:
- Is this about space, location, schools, or all of the above?
- What’s driving the urgency? Do the kids need separate bedrooms, or do you feel like you should want something bigger?
- How long are you planning to stay? Looking for your “forever home” or something for the next few years?
- What would make family life genuinely easier day to day?
- Are you focused on school zones or actual school quality?
- How does your family actually use space at home?
Action steps to take:
- Get your current property valued to understand available equity
- Speak with your mortgage broker about selling first versus buying first
- Research family-friendly suburbs and school catchment areas
- Consider renovation versus relocation costs
- Look for properties with good layout and natural light
- Think about outdoor space and how your family would actually use it
- Visit properties during different times to see how they feel when lived in
What This All Means for Your EOFY Planning
EOFY provides a natural pause to reflect on whether your current situation is working and what you might want to change.
Maybe that means finally selling the investment property that’s been nothing but hassles. Maybe it means getting serious about finding your first home, or moving somewhere that suits your family better now, not five years ago.
Before you do anything big:
- Speak with your accountant about the tax implications of any property moves you’re considering
- Get pre-approved if you’re thinking about buying, so you know what’s realistic
- Do your research about areas and property types. Don’t rely on what worked for your friends or what a generic article online might suggest
- And if you’re feeling overwhelmed by the whole thing, maybe it’s worth talking to someone who understands Sydney’s property market and can help you figure out what actually makes sense.
I’m not here to give financial advice. That’s your accountant’s job.
What I can do is look at the property side of things with you, help you weigh up your options, and make a plan that fits how you actually want to live.
Often, the next step becomes clearer once you’ve had space to think it through properly. And sometimes it’s not the right time to do anything. Either way, it’s worth having the conversation.
Property decisions are personal and involve risk. Always get professional advice that considers your individual circumstances before making any major property moves.
