Bayside’s property market has entered 2026 with a quiet but assured confidence, underpinned by its enduring lifestyle appeal and an engaged buyer pool.
While 2025 saw an increase in stock and more considered decision-making, demand for quality homes across this tightly held coastal corridor has remained consistent.
Director
“Active buyers are still strong, buying as soon as the right opportunity presents itself,” says Matthew Pillios, Director at Kay & Burton. “There are fewer passive buyers, but those who are motivated and prepared are acting decisively.”
Recent Cotality data reinforced this depth of demand, with 95.2 per cent of Bayside house resales in the December 2025 quarter returning a profit, with a median gain of $510,500—placing the region among Melbourne’s stronger-performing prestige markets.
Buyer preference continues to favour land, outdoor space and immediate liveability, with demand skewing toward luxury townhouses and well-appointed homes rather than apartments. Newly built and comprehensively renovated homes are attracting the strongest competition, particularly those offering expansive open-plan living, high ceilings and abundant natural light.
“The common thread we’re seeing is a clear preference for homes that are ready to enjoy from day one,” Mr Pillios adds. “Buyers are prioritising lifestyle, design and ease, and that’s where the strongest results are being achieved.”
The $3 million to $7 million segment continues to see the highest levels of activity, spanning key Bayside suburbs from Elwood and Brighton through to Hampton, Sandringham, Black Rock and Beaumaris. At the prestige end, Brighton’s Golden Mile remains a focal point for buyers with a long-term view on capital growth.
This strength is reflected in market share, with Kay & Burton capturing 39 per cent of $7 million-plus sales in 2025—well ahead of the nearest competitor at 26 per cent. At the very top end, this dominance becomes even more pronounced, with Kay & Burton representing 67 per cent of $10 million plus transactions.
58A Champion Street, Brighton
Bayside is also seeing renewed developer interest.
“After a relatively quiet two-year period, developers are returning to the market as they’re able to secure land at more accessible prices. This is expected to create a pipeline of quality new product over the coming years,” Mr Pillios says.
Strategic positioning and presentation remain critical. The campaign for 7 Farleigh Grove, Brighton—reintroduced to the market following a period with another agency—demonstrates the impact of a considered strategy, delivering a swift result once repositioned. In contrast, the sale of 58A Champion Street, Brighton highlights the strength of alignment between product and campaign, where design-led quality and precise execution combined to drive immediate engagement and a timely outcome.