Apartment appeal declines

The AAA Apartment Living 2025 research confidently reveals that, for the first time in eight years, apartment owners are now inclined to purchase a house rather than an apartment.

The study, which surveyed 1,100 apartment owners nationwide, demonstrates that only 51% would opt for an apartment in their next purchase, a significant drop from 66% in 2023.

Conversely, 53% now favor a standalone home, a notable increase from 39% in 2023.

The AAA CEO highlighted that while apartment owners appreciate the convenient locations and the lock-up-and-leave lifestyle, the drawbacks significantly overshadow these benefits.

"Owners cited issues such as ongoing maintenance costs, challenging owners, procrastinating Strata Councils, defects, and lack of accountability as major detractors from their overall experience," Ms. Reece stated.

"Certainly, with the absence of governance over the WA apartment sector, we are witnessing a surge in defects and rogue behavior from the strata management sector, which is now undermining consumer confidence.

"We have been anticipating further strata reforms from Minister Carey since May 2025, including the appointment of a commissioner, and legislative announcements regarding build quality made in 2023 have yet to be implemented.

"If the WA Government fails to take proactive measures now, potential apartment buyers will refrain from purchasing off the plan, leading to supply issues and exacerbating housing affordability challenges."