Wendy Aletras, Richard Stanton, Kellie Quinn and Remy Harding sitting at a table discussing the January - March period of 2026 for Kapalua

Q1 Wrap

A Quarter of Momentum

Q1 2026 has marked a clear shift across the sectors we operate in – with renewed momentum building across off-the-plan projects, downsizing, and land.

After a period where feasibility outcomes were more constrained, we are now seeing more opportunities begin to stack up. Developers are approaching the market with greater confidence, supported by improved clarity around costs, pricing, and end demand.

This is translating into stronger activity across site acquisition, project planning, and early-stage advisory.

 

Confidence Returning to the Development Space

Over the past 3 months, we’ve advised on more than 50 sites and feasibility assessments – and increasingly, those feasibilities are beginning to work.

Where previously many sites did not stack up, we are now seeing more viable outcomes emerge. This shift is creating renewed confidence for developers to move forward with acquisitions and planning.

As a result, our project pipeline is very strong, with a clear uplift in activity expected as we move through the remainder of the year.

 

Strength Across Off-the-Plan, Downsizing & Land

Momentum is consistent across all three of Kapalua’s core focus areas.

Off-the-plan projects
Buyer demand remains strong, with a growing waitlist of purchasers actively looking for new product. This depth of demand is providing confidence to developers as they assess new opportunities.

Downsizing & Retirement
The downsizing space continues to be one of the most important sectors in the market.

Kellie is recognised as our region’s downsizing and retirement specialist, with deep experience in guiding clients through what is often a complex transition.

Downsizing is not just about selling and buying – it involves:

  • Careful planning
  • The right product selection
  • A structured, staged process

As more homeowners look to transition into their next phase, the need for clear advice and tailored solutions continues to grow.

Land
Activity in the land sector remains steady, supported by both first home buyers, families, downsizers and investors.

 

A Full Circle Moment: The Creer Partnership

This quarter has also marked an important milestone with the partnership between Kapalua and Creer.

For both Richard and Kellie, this represents a genuine full-circle moment.

Their history with Creer spans decades – and returning through this partnership brings together long-standing relationships, shared values, and a deep understanding of the market.

What this creates is a more connected and complete offering.

Together, we are now able to deliver an end-to-end property service, covering:

  • Development advisory and project sales
  • Residential sales
  • Downsizing strategies
  • Property management and investment support

For developers, this provides a more aligned model – with access to:

  • A qualified and engaged buyer base
  • Integrated marketing and sales capability
  • Direct connection to investment clients through property management

 

Aligning for What’s Next

As part of this next phase, Kapalua will also be relocating into the Creer Charlestown office, which is currently undergoing a full fit-out.

This move reflects the alignment between the two businesses and creates a shared environment that supports collaboration and consistency across all sectors.

 

Taking a Moment to Reflect

While the focus is firmly on what’s ahead, Q1 has also been a moment to reflect.

On the relationships we’ve built.
The clients who continue to trust us.
The strength of the team we’ve assembled.

There is a strong sense of momentum across the business — alongside a genuine appreciation for the growth we’re experiencing and the position we’re in.

 

Looking Ahead

The pipeline is strengthening.
Demand is present.
And opportunities across our core sectors are becoming clearer.

As we move through 2026, the focus remains on providing clear advice, structured execution, and outcomes that are grounded in the realities of the market.

 

Let’s Talk

If you’re a developer assessing your next project, exploring a site, or reviewing feasibility, now is the time to have a clear and informed conversation.

Likewise, if you’re considering your next move – whether that’s downsizing, investing, or planning ahead – we’re here to guide you through it.

We're always making great things.