Why the RBA Holding Rates at 3.60% Means Now Is the Time to Buy (Especially in Geelong Real Estate)
What just happened
The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has opted to keep the cash rate steady at 3.60%, following their latest board meeting.
In their statement the board noted:
“The Board’s judgement is that some of the increase in underlying inflation in the September quarter was due to temporary factors. The central forecast in the November Statement on Monetary Policy, which is based on a technical assumption of one more rate cut in 2026, has underlying inflation rising above 3 per cent in coming quarters before settling at 2.6 per cent in 2027.”
That means inflation is still elevated, and while a cut is expected somewhere down the track, not yet.
Why this is good news for buyers and investors
A rate-hold means borrowing costs aren’t rising further right now. That gives you time and less urgency to act.
The RBA expects inflation to stay above 3% for the short term, they’re likely to keep the rate where it is until the inflation fears ease. That means the window to buy under more favourable conditions remains open a little longer.
This is the key, when the next rate cut does arrive (forecast is 2026), there’s a strong chance that property prices will lift. Lower rates → increased purchasing power → more competition.
For markets like the Geelong region, which already appeal for investment (younger families, growth corridor, lifestyle plus commuter access), this is a moment to pounce rather than wait.
What this means for Geelong real estate
If you’re looking to invest in Geelong real estate:
The current environment gives you a strategic advantage. Acting now means you can secure property before the competition intensifies.
Geelong ticks many boxes in a high-growth plan: access to Melbourne, regional growth momentum, lifestyle drawcards—all important criteria for strong capital growth.
If rate cuts come and prices inflect upward, the cost of entry for first-time investors or upgrade/downsizer buyers will likely increase. So locking in sooner can translate into better value.
What to do next
Get your finance in place – being ready means you can act quickly when the right opportunity in Geelong shows up.
Target suburbs around Geelong that align with strong fundamentals (disposable income catchment, supply-demand tightness, amenity, school zones).
Position yourself now, so you’re ahead of the curve. When rates drop and more buyers enter the market, you’ll want to be already selected and ready.
Work with the right team – as a buyer’s agent, I can help identify those opportunities in Geelong and beyond, negotiate effectively, and coordinate the process end-to-end.
Final thoughts
Holding the rate at 3.60% means the RBA hasn’t taken away the ammo it has simply delayed the trigger. For property investors, especially in Geelong, this delay is your window of opportunity. Waiting too long might mean facing higher competition and higher entry costs when the next wave comes.
If you’re ready to explore how to act now let’s chat. I’d love to walk you through Geelong’s current hotspots and how you can secure a smart investment before the market gets ahead of you.