Sunshine Coast still seeing active first time buyers

Home ownership is still the dream for most people living on the Sunshine Coast and owner-occupiers are again making up the majority of sales, particularly since APRA announced changes to investor lending, the valuation firm, Herron Todd White has advised.

They are seeing first home buyers still very active throughout the more affordable hinterland townships as well as in the new small lot residential estates at Caloundra and Palmview.

"Land in these estates is selling before titles are issued and is very popular amongst first home buyers," the firm's latest report noted.

"The Sunshine Coast is seeing some change with several new high density unit developments recently completed around the new hospital precinct and a large supply of small lot developments providing affordable housing.

"Lot sizes above 500 square metres are becoming scarce along the coastal strip and the number of attached housing developments is increasing.

"Both of these residential options provide an opportunity for first home buyers to get into the market at around $400,000."

Investors are also active for these types of properties at this price point, the valuation firm noted.

Upgraders are also active given the ability to exit out of their current home.