REA Group, the company behind Realestate.com.au, is moving further ahead of its competitors as increased spring sales activity draws more Australians to search for property online. Despite limited listings, stabilising interest rates and ongoing government incentives are boosting buyer interest.
The platform attracted 13.05 million unique visitors in October, engaging over 60% of the country's adult online population and widening its lead over Domain. The gap between the two platforms has grown to 5.5 million users, an increase of 14% over the past year. REA’s advanced membership system, which allows users to track properties, continues to support its growth.
REA Group has been investing significantly in technology. In October, it acquired a 61.5% share in Planitar Inc. for $55 million. Planitar’s iGUIDE platform offers AI-powered 3D virtual tours to enhance listings and keep REA ahead in the increasingly tech-focused property sector. While other platforms are increasing similar efforts, REA's scale gives it a clear advantage.
With US-based companies like CoStar entering the Australian market through major acquisitions, competition is intensifying. However, REA's strong audience figures and strategic investment in technology suggest it is well placed to maintain its lead for now.
