David Murphy- Where the Smart Money Is Going in 2026
In this in-depth conversation, we sit down with David Murphy, Director at Ray White Cairns & Cairns Beaches, to unpack what’s really happening across the residential and commercial property markets in Far North Queensland. With an economics degree, decades of industry experience, and an office that manages over 2,000 properties while selling both residential and commercial real estate, David brings a rare data-backed perspective on where Cairns has been and where it’s heading next.
Whether you're a national investor, first-time buyer, commercial operator, or simply want clarity on the Cairns property outlook for 2026, this episode breaks down the risks, opportunities, and strategic thinking you need to understand the market with confidence.
From commercial property opportunities and auction strategy, to residential investment trends and long-term economic outlook, this conversation delivers grounded, practical insight from inside one of Cairns’ most active real estate offices.
🔑 Key Topics Covered
0:00 – Intro & who is David Murphy?
0:26 – From property economics to valuation in Cairns
1:40 – Using an economics lens to read the market
2:27 – Moving into commercial real estate in Cairns
3:22 – Industrial sheds boom & owner-occupiers driving prices
5:55 – Commercial yields & what investors should look for
8:39 – Where the Cairns market is heading into 2026
10:01 – What’s an “affordable” house in Cairns now?
11:18 – Apartments, replacement cost & lack of new supply
13:02 – Land constraints, town planning & key industrial pockets
15:39 – What David would buy in Cairns today (and where)
17:01 – Suburb mismatches: Edmonton vs Trinity Beach, Manunda vs Cairns North
18:56 – Auctions: transparency and how they really work
21:52 – Tips for buying at auction (finance, valuations & strategy)
24:52 – First home buyers, 5% schemes & auction deposits
26:46 – Advice David would give his 18-year-old self
📈 Cairns Property Market Snapshot (2025–2026 Outlook)
Here’s how the Cairns market is shaping up based on current trends and on-the-ground activity:
• Strong Investor Demand: Tight rental conditions and rising population continue to underpin buyer interest.
• Commercial Market Momentum: Increased demand for retail, industrial, and mixed-use assets as the local economy diversifies.
• Residential Supply Pressure: Limited stock levels supporting price resilience across key suburbs.
• Economic Diversification: Tourism, health, education, defence, construction, and aviation continue to drive long-term growth.
🤔 Is Cairns a Smart Investment for 2026?
In this episode, we break down:
• How David uses economic data to assess property cycles
• Where commercial investors are finding opportunity right now
• The biggest risks first-time commercial buyers overlook
• Why auctions can be a powerful buying strategy (when used correctly)
• Which property type and suburb David would personally invest in today
• How Cairns compares nationally for long-term growth potential
If you’re researching Cairns real estate, commercial property investing, or regional property opportunities in Queensland, this episode will give you genuine, practical insight, not just headlines.
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📚 Disclaimer This video is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial or investment advice. Always conduct your own due diligence and seek guidance from qualified financial, legal, and real estate professionals.
Want help buying real estate in Cairns? Get in touch with the team at The Buyers Co today.
