Gold Coast buyers want good condition, nothing to do and cheap property: Herron Todd White
Agents in the Gold Coast area are reporting of a lack of stock and some drop off in sales volumes compared to the previous quarter of 2013, according to Herron Todd White.
The valuers say buyer’s wish lists appear to be inclusive of good condition, nothing to do and cheap.
"Some firming of the market bottom was evident, with the odd very cheap sale occurring, one can only surmise there was an element of a forced sale in these instances.
"Generally the market has more confidence, especially for well located prime properties.
"On Isle of Capri there were three waterfront houses that sold during 2012 in the mid $600,000’s - but agents are reporting that those days are gone."
Herron Todd white says it's still possible to get entry level waterfront properties in Broadbeach Waters for $500,000, but it will be a smaller block with a very narrow canal.
The valuers say there has been some improvement in the unit market for beachfront localities, particularly Surfers Paradise, Main Beach, Broadbeach and Nerang.
However these areas are still very price sensitive, and may be a result of increased investor confidence.
The valuers say agents have reported that investors have been more active.
"The average buyer still wants a bargain in good condition.
"The best chance of growth is for well located properties within one to 1.5 kilometress of the beach."
The valuers first pick is Broadbeach Waters, followed by Mermaid Beach and Burleigh Waters.
The valuers say the gap between waterfront properties and dry block properties is closer than ever before, indicating waterfront properties may be due for a rise soon.
A 1980s single level brick home with four bedrooms and two bathrooms on a 638-square-metre rear canal allotment passed in at auction, receiving a top bid of $460,000.
"In beachside locations, currently “cheap” units with low body corporate fees would appear to be a good buy.
"In the highrise market, units with a good ocean view would appear to have growth potential.
"However the market is soft and appears to still be driven by investors who are shy of high body corporate fees."
