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As winter begins to wind down, many buyers and sellers are already looking ahead to spring – traditionally Wellington’s busiest time for real estate. While market confidence continues to improve, Tommy’s Real Estate agents Alexia Stoddart and Chris Robinson say the next few months will present a unique mix of opportunity and uncertainty.

After a relatively steady winter, available housing stock has tightened slightly, reducing the level of choice buyers enjoyed earlier in the year. However, that is expected to change as spring approaches and more homeowners prepare to bring their properties to market.

“Spring is typically when we see a lift in new listings,” says Robinson. “That gives buyers more choice, but it also means sellers will be competing with a larger number of properties. Presentation and pricing will become even more important.”

This year’s spring market also comes with an added consideration – the general election.

“Wellington is closely connected to the public sector, so elections naturally create a period where some buyers and sellers prefer to wait and see,” explains Stoddart. “It’s not that activity stops, but confidence can become a little more measured until there’s greater certainty.”

History suggests this uncertainty is often short-lived. Once the election result is known, many people who have delayed their property decisions tend to return to the market, creating renewed momentum heading into the final months of the year.

For sellers considering a spring campaign, preparation remains key.

“The homes achieving the strongest results continue to be those that are well-presented and priced in line with today’s market,” says Robinson. “Buyers are still active, but they have choices, and they’re unlikely to compromise on value.”

On the buyer side, interest rates and lending conditions remain important factors to watch. While borrowing costs have stabilised over the past year, any further easing could encourage additional buyers into the market, particularly in the entry-level and family home sectors.

Stoddart says buyers who are organised will be best placed to take advantage of opportunities as the market becomes busier.

“We’re seeing more people arranging finance pre-approval earlier and doing their research before they start seriously looking. Being prepared means you can move confidently when the right property comes along.”

Looking ahead, both agents expect Wellington’s gradual recovery to continue through the remainder of 2026. While spring is likely to bring more competition and the election may briefly temper activity, the underlying market fundamentals continue to improve.

For buyers, that means staying informed and ready to act when value presents itself. For sellers, it’s about entering the market with realistic expectations and ensuring their property stands out from the competition.

As Wellington moves towards its busiest selling season, preparation, timing and expert advice are likely to make the biggest difference.