REA Group report continued listings decline into 2020

REA Group has reported a 6% decline in half year revenue to $440 million despite the rebound in house prices over the last few months.

Its management warned that it is the listing volumes that remain challenging, for them and intending buyers.

REA noted that Australian residential volumes were down 13 percent in January, with declines of 7 percent in Sydney and 5 percent in Melbourne.

It came after national residential listings declined in the second half of 2019 by 14 per cent, with a 17 per cent dip in Sydney and 16 per cent in Melbourne.

New project commencements declined 30 per cent over the half-year period.

REA Group’s net profit from core operations sat at $152.9 million, a 13 percent decline on the prior corresponding period.

The company’s CEO, Owen Wilson indicated he was pleased with the resilience of the REA Group business.

“Our results demonstrate the underlying strength of our business given the unprecedented market conditions.

"We now have a record number of customers committed to our premium listing products across both buy and rent.

"Customers see clear value in our product offerings, designed to deliver the highest quality leads to help their businesses grow.”

The REA CEO remains optimistic on the future.

“Key indicators show that the Australian property market is recovering.

"We anticipate that more favourable listings conditions in the second half of FY20 will deliver a stronger revenue outcome,” Mr Wilson advised.