What Melbourne apartment buyers are looking for in 2026

Three defining trends are shaping Melbourne’s premium apartment market in 2026, according to Director of Marshall White, Leonard Teplin.

As buyer expectations continue to evolve, demand has shifted decisively toward premium apartments that deliver the scale, flexibility, and comfort traditionally associated with standalone homes, while retaining the convenience, security, and lock-and-leave appeal that apartment living offers.

As a result, larger floorplans, secondary living spaces, and heightened security are at the top of apartment purchasers’ wishlists.

“We’re seeing a very deliberate move toward larger apartments with multiple living zones,” Leonard said.

“Buyers are effectively upsizing within the apartment market.

“They love the ease and lifestyle of apartment living, but they want space that allows them to live properly – a second living area to retreat to, room to work comfortably from home, and generous zones for entertaining.

“That level of flexibility has moved from being a nice-to-have to an absolute expectation.”

This growing preference for space reflects broader lifestyle shifts, including hybrid work, changing family dynamics, and a desire for homes that can adapt fluidly throughout the day.

Expansive living rooms, secondary lounges, and clearly articulated zones are now considered essential markers of quality within premium developments.

Alongside scale, security has become an increasingly influential factor in buyer decision-making, as purchasers respond to wider changes across Melbourne’s urban environment.

With crime affecting a broader range of suburbs, buyers are placing greater emphasis on buildings that offer a heightened sense of safety, privacy, and control.

“Security has become a core part of the value proposition, not an afterthought,” Leonard said.

“Buyers want to feel genuinely reassured in their homes.

“Features such as secure basement access, number plate recognition, and controlled entry systems are now influencing decisions across all demographics, particularly among downsizers and owner-occupiers who are prioritising peace of mind as much as design.”

Further elevating the premium apartment experience is the rapid normalisation of concierge services. Once reserved for large-scale towers, concierge offerings are now increasingly being incorporated into boutique developments of as few as 20 residences, and are resonating strongly with today’s buyers.

“Concierge services have rapidly evolved from being a luxury to an expectation in not only the premium space, but in all corners of the market,” Leonard said.

“They add a layer of ease and refinement to daily life, facilitating deliveries, offering on-site assistance, and reinforcing the sense of security and care within a building.

“When done well, concierge services genuinely complement the quality of the residences themselves.

“This is an integral element that makes developments that offer hotel-like service so desirable.”

Together, these trends point to a clear evolution within Melbourne’s property market more broadly, with the premium apartment sector leading the shift toward larger living, enhanced security, and service-led amenity.

As Teplin notes, the future of premium apartments lies in homes that feel expansive, secure, and deeply considered, designed not just for convenience but for enduring comfort, confidence, and quality of life.

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Header image of 71 Mathoura in Toorak.