With the autumn selling season imminent, Steve Worrad, general manager, Raine & Horne Queensland, believes the outlook is very positive for the state’s real estate markets.

“Brisbane dwelling prices have started 2017 in positive territory,” said Worrad, who nominates the Gold Coast and Carindale, which is 8 kilometres from Brisbane, as regions worth considering in 2017. 

“Ipswich is another area to monitor, where it’s possible to buy houses for around $300,500 .”

Anthony Steinberg, Principal of Raine & Horne Mermaid said that the Gold Coast real estate market has returned to pre-Global Financial Crisis levels.

“In Mermaid Beach and surrounding suburbs, we saw significant price value falls in 2008 and 2009, however, it’s becoming increasing difficult to find an entry level home in the area under $700,000.”

“Over the past few years, values have risen incrementally by 4-5% annually thanks to the economic impact of infrastructure developments supporting the 2018 Commonwealth Games, along with changes to local council planning regulations and fees, which have made it easier for developers to construct a residential building.

“In 2010, there wasn’t crane in the sky, and now the Gold Coast skyline is littered with up to 30 cranes on any given day. Cranes are a great indicator of the health of the Gold Coast economy.” Given the strong buyer interest in Gold Coast property, Mr Steinberg is tipping price growth of 5-10% in 2017. 

Interstate downsizers are also making their presence felt in Queensland, according to Worrad.

“We are seeing more retirees who have sold up in Sydney and Melbourne in our markets. They can buy in South East Queensland and they can still have plenty of money left over for a decent retirement lifestyle,” said Mr Worrad.

Another regional town to watch in 2017 is Mackay. “Vacancy rates have fallen to single figures in Mackay, which savvy investors looking for affordable assets and decent returns will duly note,” said Mr Worrad. 

According to Raine & Horne, the median house price in Mackay is $265,000  with median weekly rents of $275, with the vacancy rates sitting between 5-6%. 

“After the so-called mining boom phase ended a few years ago, Mackay real estate values and rental yields have returned to more reasonable levels,” said Des Besanko, Principal Raine & Horne Mackay. 

“The savvy investors are recognising Mackay is more than a one-trick economic pony. As an employer, the mining sector in Mackay is dwarfed by the retail, manufacturing and tourism industries. 

“Mackay also services primary industries such as sugarcane and beef, including some of the biggest cattle farms in Australia.
On the mining front, Besanko said there is some activity as a consequence of stronger coal prices globally. 

“The increase in the price of coal is enabling several existing mines to complete some maintenance, and this employment is feeding into the town,” said Besanko.

“Given Mackay is an Australian mining and sugar hub, some technical and research organisations set up shop here and they’re now exporting their capabilities overseas.” 

See also:

South East Queensland auction market has spring in its step

Sydneysiders look north to Queensland

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