If you have noticed South East Queensland traffic is a little busier this year, you would be correct! The secret paradise towns scattered along the South East Coast are secret no more. People are moving to regional towns all over Australia, with the Sunshine Coast being one of the top spots. After over 2 years of lockdowns and disruptions to their work and family lives, people are re-accessing their core values. Whether it is being closer to family, opting for a less chaotic lifestyle or working remotely which means you can live anywhere or just having the option to move somewhere more affordable and serene. High on the post-pandemic list was the sea change. However, in recent times we are noticing a slight shift. Tropical landscapes and lush pastures of the hinterland that are still just a short drive from the beach are now the hot ticket items and where we’re witnessing compelling growth, while it was the coastal stretches that moved significantly first, these coastal hinterland regional towns away from the hustle and bustle of the big cities are quickly catching up. Australia’s regional housing market is thriving, with combined dwelling values outshining their capital city counterparts.
Sunshine Coast’s house prices grew by 35.4 % over the past 12 months to Feb 2022. Whereas major cities like Melbourne have risen by 12.5% in the past 12 months.
Whilst the pandemic may have accelerated the migration of city dwellers to regional towns, it is not the sole cause. There are many factors to why people are choosing to move closer to the sea or among the trees. We are putting ourselves & family first. Some of us haven’t seen our families for a long period of time and are choosing to move closer to each other. Working remotely has shone a light on the fact that you no longer need to be close to your workplace and can choose to live out of the city. With the migration of people to these coastal & hinterland towns, there is a wealth of new job opportunities as well. Plus, these hinterland areas give young families an opportunity to enjoy a rural lifestyle only a short drive to beautiful beaches, the best of both worlds.
Regional areas with diverse economies will continue to perform strongly, according to property experts. This is evident in the increased sales and decrease of days on market for many suburbs in and around the Sunshine Coast, with accelerated growth happening in places like Bli Bli, Nambour, Palmwoods, Cooroy, just to name a few. Experts believe this trend will continue through the Easter School holidays, with those families who are holidaying on the east coast from the southern states will possibly consider the sea/tree change after returning home.
Whether north or south, beach or hinterland, if you are looking to sell your property on the Sunshine Coast this is an opportune time. Even if you are unsure of the value of your property, you may be pleasantly surprised. Call us, we are here to support you through your property journey. For more information on the sunshine coast & hinterland property market, call 07 5430 0889.