Sunshine Coast market slowdown effects varied across region: HTW residential
The Sunshine Coast property market is diverse, according to a recent Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report.
The report notes properties in the Sunshine Coast market cover a wide spectrum through the various sectors of units, homes and rural residential properties.
"One of the big drawcards is the coastline and the magic beaches on offer, but when you dig a little deeper, there are little pockets all over the coast," the valuation firm said.
- Units
"When looking at the unit market there is no doubt the most popular spots are within a kilometre of the coast," the valuation firm said.
Caloundra, Mooloolaba, Maroochydore and Noosa Heads remain popular.
For entry level product, the older walk up style units have been good as they offer low body corporate fees and are usually positioned pretty close to the beach.
"As you move higher up the value levels, permanent style occupancy units remain highly sought after as these have provided a real alternative for those looking to downsize from prestige dwellings," the valuation firm added.
"Typically, these units are larger providing at least three-bedroom accommodation with double garages."
The report notes some coastal towns such as Coolum Beach have increased in popularity, especially for new product.
A complex within this location that is nearing completion has completely sold off the plan and the developer is looking to release a new project in this locality off the back of the increased interest.
The biggest impediment to the unit market is units in complexes with high body corporate fees.
A three bedroom oceanfront unit at 5/141 Coolum Terrace, Coolum Beach (pictured below) has recently been sold for $955,000.
It comprises master suite with ocean views, two additional bedrooms, living area, kitchen and private courtyard.
Additional features include swimming pool, remote tandem garage and storage space.
- Single unit dwellings/homes
Close to the coast, within three to four kilometres, remains the most popular sector.
"Areas surrounding Caloundra such as Moffat Beach, Shelly Beach and Dicky Beach for the middle to prestige markets have had some good levels of growth as has the Kawana strip up to Buddina. This also continues right up the coast from Mudjimba to Noosa," the valuation firm notes.
"As you move further inland, opportunities arise for the entry level markets with proximity to amenities such as schools, cafes and the like being top of mind. Railway townships from Beerwah to the south, right through to Cooroy to the north and the sense of community that these areas offer also have a good bearing."
- Rural residential
For the rural residential markets, as with the inland dwelling market, proximity to amenities is also top of mind.
"For prestige properties, areas around Buderim continue to remain popular given their proximity to private schools and the Sunshine Coast University. Also, northern areas of the golden triangle between Tewantin, Cooroy and Eumundi continue to be popular.
"We add in here areas on the Blackall Range of Maleny and Montville, some of which provide good local rural, hinterland and distant coastal views," the valuation firm noted.
A current listing is a Buderim pavilion style house priced at $1.9 million.
Nestled on 8,516 square metres, the home at 18 Stringybark Road (pictured below) comprises four bedrooms, games room, gourmet kitchen, living zones and swimming pool.
It's situated moments from the village and Matthew Flinders College.
For the entry level rural residential market, like the housing market, railway townships can provide some good options where there remains an ability to purchase properties at below replacement cost.
"As initially mentioned, generally the Sunshine Coast property market is very diverse.
"We have noticed that over recent months we have started to experience a slowdown, but following on from the different market sectors, this slowdown is very much property and area specific. You simply cannot tar everything with the same brush."