Hayley Miller, her partner Jarrad, and their three sons were among the first people to purchase a property at Underbank, a new master-planned community in the regional Victorian town of Bacchus Marsh. 

Miller answered The Real Estate Conversation's questions about why Underbank appealed to them, and what they are looking forward to when they move in.

"Both Jarrad and I grew up in Bacchus Marsh," said Miller. "We love the town and the community, and how it’s so central to everything in the western district."

"I work out of three offices in Ballan, Darley, and in the main street of Bacchus Marsh, so it’s really convenient to get to all three locations.

The construction of new infrastructure in the area was also a big factor for the couple in choosing their new home.

"Jarrad works in Maddingley," said Miller. "There’s currently a new bypass being constructed there as we speak, which will enable him to cut straight across to work in half the time," she said.

Miller said the Ballarat-bound ramp and the new city ramp will also make commuting convenient.

"It’s pretty much central to everything," Miller said, "and we think it’s a really good base to get to everywhere we need without too much traffic congestion."

Underbank has been developed with the aim of preserving the natural environment as much as possible, and blending the homes into the surrounding bushland.

"The site is set in a natural bowl and has rolling hills, a creek, plenty of trees, and parklands. The developers aren’t going to remove any of the hills, instead there are strict building guidelines so that the houses have to work with the natural slopes," said Miller.

"We’re really excited about how beautiful the estate will be," she said, adding that the rules to preserve the surrounding environment mean "the site will remain beautiful for a long time!" 

The high quality of the homes was also an important drawcard.

"The standard of homes will be very high," said Miller, "so the development will be filled with quality homes, which will support the value of the development overall."

Miller said they love "quaint and charming" Bacchus Marsh. "As you drive into the town, the beautiful Avenue of Honour tree-lined streets really sets the tone of the warm and welcoming community."

Miller said there is plenty to do in the surrounding area too. 

"Lerderderg Gorge is a great place to visit on weekends," she said, "and there’s stunning walking tracks around town, as well as on the Underbank development. Not to mention, the fresh fruit and vegetables right on our doorstep!" Underbank proposes to have a vegetable garden on site.

Perhaps most importantly, the couple felt Underbank would be a good place to raise their children. The surrounding bushland would be a great "spot for children to explore and learn about nature", said Miller, as well as a wonderful place for relaxing walks, and catching up with family and friends. 

See also:

Developers helping to fund community facilities

Why investing in regional areas is wise

Reinventing the townhouse for Australia's shifting cities