Winter Brings Clear Opportunities in Invercargill and Southland
We’ve just passed the shortest day of the year and recently celebrated Matariki, a time for reflection, renewal, and fresh beginnings.
It’s a season when many start thinking about property decisions, whether buying, selling, or investing. The Invercargill and Southland markets remain active, offering real opportunities even in the colder months.
While spring is often seen as the prime selling season, winter brings its own advantages: motivated buyers, less competition, and a chance for well-presented
homes to shine. Sellers can stand out, while buyers can take their time and consider options carefully.
Adding further confidence, the Reserve Bank recently lowered the OCR by 0.25 percent to 3.25 percent. This is a positive sign for buyers and investors. Lower interest rates could mean more affordable mortgages and greater opportunities to step onto or move up the property ladder.
In Invercargill, May 2025 saw the median sale price rise to $477,000, up 2.6 percent on the same month last year. Sales volumes also lifted, with 130 properties sold compared to 112 a year ago. Demand remains strong for homes priced between $400,000 and $600,000.
In the wider Southland region, the median price rose 10 percent year-on-year to $495,000, with 192 properties sold, up from 163. Southland continues to stand out as one of the country’s stronger regions for price growth.
Nationally, sales rose 8.9 percent year-on-year to 7,166 in May. While the national median price softened slightly to $763,000, Southland’s stability is clear.
Confidence in Invercargill’s future is further reflected in the City Council’s Housing Innovation Project. Construction is underway on six new units in Miller Street, following four completed last year on Stirrat Street. This $7.7 million investment is focused on providing safer, modern housing for elderly residents. It is a strong signal of commitment to community wellbeing and vibrant, supportive neighbourhoods that underpin long-term property values.
Winter can be a smart time to sell. With fewer homes on the market, motivated buyers are more likely to focus on your property. Interest rates are steady, and many are choosing to act now rather than wait for spring.
Presentation matters. Warm your home before viewings, open curtains to maximise natural light, and add cosy touches like cushions, throws or rugs. A tidy entrance and driveway help create a strong first impression.
In the rental market, average rent in Invercargill is now $493 per week (Tenancy Services, April 2025). Median rents have risen by $138 over the past four years, an average increase of 8.56 percent annually. With more choice available, landlords need to price competitively, meet Healthy Homes standards and present properties well to secure good tenants. Our local property management team is here to help. Tenants value responsive communication and flexible terms when choosing a rental.
Winter brings genuine opportunities for those ready to make a move. At Professionals Invercargill, our award-winning team lives and breathes the region. Whether you’re buying, selling or seeking trusted property management, we’re here to help.
Visit www.professionals.co.nz/Invercargill.