Ep. 60 | Buying Through Uncertainty: Is This Actually One of the Best Times to Buy in the Inner East?

Buying in Melbourne’s Inner East right now isn’t just about timing, it’s about understanding opportunity, sentiment, and long-term strategy. With rate hikes, auction withdrawals, and fluctuating clearance rates, many buyers are hesitant. But for those prepared, this uncertainty creates a rare chance to secure a property under favourable conditions.In this episode of How’s the Market, Tristan Larkin and James Rankin dive into the current Melbourne market, explaining why today’s environment may be one of the best times for long-term buyers. They break down how auction dynamics, media-driven sentiment, and scarcity of heritage homes shape the Inner East, and why savvy buyers can turn perceived risk into advantage.What You'll Learn:Market uncertainty and opportunity – How rate hikes, media coverage, and auction withdrawals impact buyer sentiment and open negotiating advantages.Auction strategies – Why many properties are selling before auction or passing in, and how buyers can benefit from reduced competition.Melbourne’s fundamentals – Scarcity of heritage homes, strong schools, and long-term capital growth potential that remain unaffected by short-term market noise.Timing and strategy – How knowing your numbers, pre-approval status, and readiness can position you to take advantage of undervalued properties.Long-term perspective – Why focusing on a 10–20 year horizon matters more than trying to predict short-term market cycles.Practical tips for buyers – How to avoid getting caught in media hype and emotional bidding, and why strategic patience pays off.Whether you’re a first-time buyer, upsizing, downsizing, or relocating from another city, this episode highlights how preparation, insight, and a clear strategy can turn uncertainty into opportunity in Melbourne’s Inner East.👋 About the ShowHow’s The Market is Melbourne’s go-to podcast for buyers who want to make smarter property decisions. Hosted by Tristan Larkin and James Rankin from Tomii Property, we bring you expert tips, market insights, and real stories from the frontlines of real estate, finance, and construction. Auctions, rates, off-markets - we’ve got you covered.🔗 Resources & LinksJoin our mailing list & read the blog → www.tomii.com.auSubscribe for weekly auction results → www.tomii.com.au/auction-resultsFollow Tristan on TikTok & Instagram → @tristanlarkinFollow James on TikTok & Instagram → @james__rankin