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Brisbane auctions are booming – here’s why, according to Peter Burgin

By Place
01 May 2025 | 8 minute read
peter burgin reb qlqteu

Peter Burgin has called thousands of auctions, but his latest insights reveal just how much buyer behaviour, seller strategy, and the Brisbane market have evolved.

Burgin is one of Brisbane’s most respected and accomplished auctioneers, bringing over two decades of experience to the table.

As the chief auctioneer at Place Estate Agents, he has been at the forefront of some of the city’s most high-profile property transactions.

Known for his dynamic approach, sharp market insight, and unrivalled ability to read the room, Burgin has helped countless sellers achieve outstanding results at auction.

His passion for the craft, coupled with his deep understanding of buyer psychology, makes him a key figure in Brisbane’s auction scene.

Pete, you've recently overseen some high-profile auctions, most recently the sale of “Sintra” – a property that sold under the hammer for $3.83 million. What factors do you believe contributed to such a successful outcome?

The Sintra auction was a standout event. The property was exceptional, and the local interest was palpable. We had a large crowd, and the intensity of the bidding was competitive. The opening bid was $3.5 million, and within seconds, it jumped to $3.8 million. This rapid escalation reflects the pent-up demand and the quality of the property.

How do you prepare for auctions of this magnitude?

Preparation is key. Our agents ensure that the property is well-presented and that all marketing materials are aligned.

Understanding the local market is essential to helping buyers make confident, informed decisions. By educating them on current conditions, we can set clear expectations and engage more effectively throughout the buying process.

What’s your take on the current auction market in Brisbane?

The market is strong. We’re seeing excellent numbers through open homes and strong competition on auction days. Even with broader conversations around the economy or the election, Brisbane remains incredibly resilient. Clearance rates are consistent, and the level of buyer engagement is very encouraging. At Place, we are consistently seeing an average of three registered bidders per property.

What’s motivating sellers to go to auction right now?

It’s simple: auctions work. Sellers get transparency, speed, and the chance to create competition. When an auction is run well, with the right strategy, agent, and marketing, it brings out the best price, reducing days on market to less than half of a private treaty campaign. It’s a process that gives everyone clarity, and that’s something sellers really value in this kind of market.

Are buyers responding to auctions in the same way?

Buyers are favouring the auction process because they are getting a clearer understanding of value and transparency on the day of the auction.

In your experience, how has the Brisbane property market evolved in recent years when it comes to auction?

No question – auction is the most progressive method of sale. It attracts more interest and decreases time on market significantly. Brisbane’s property market has become more competitive, with increased buyer interest and higher expectations.

Auctions have become a preferred method of sale, offering transparency and a sense of urgency that appeals to both sellers and buyers.

What advice would you give to sellers considering auctioning their property?

Auction is our number one method of sale because you’re dealing with the best and lowest risk buyers in the market. Sellers should ensure their property is in top condition and that they have a clear understanding of the auction process. It's crucial to work with the most experienced agents and auctioneers, who have a clear and deep understanding of the process.

Looking ahead, what trends do you anticipate in the Brisbane property auction scene?

I see an increase in volume of auctions. The transparency and competitive nature of auctions are increasingly appealing to both sellers and buyers. Thirty per cent of properties that Place lists use the auction sales method; we see this increasing to 50 per cent in the coming 12 months.

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