Signs are good for Dalby homeowners

Real estate business holding firm as more homebuyers enter the market after tough five years.

IN THE MARKET: More houses were sold in Dalby last year than the previous three, which is good signs for the property market. Picture: Michael Doyle

THE property market is getting back on its feet after a tough five years.

The number of houses sold in Dalby is increasing and first-home buyers have a greater opportunity to break into the market.

Last year, 190 houses were sold in Dalby, more than any of the previous three years.

The end of the resources boom resulted in lean years for Dalby's real estate agents, but Ray White's Brian Laverty said the property market had sustained and owners were willing to sell again.

"We are finding we are able to sell and people are coming back into the market,” Mr Laverty said.

He added the five-year price drop meant houses were now more affordable.

Mr Laverty said 68 homes were sold through Ray White last year, on par with the 72 homes the real estate agency sold in 2008, at the beginning of the boom.

During that year, homes were selling for more than $300,000, according to Mr Laverty.

He said selling a house might not as profitable as it was during the resources boom, but many homeowners were still making good profits on their investments.

"If you bought a house prior to 2006, you are still likely to make a good return,” Mr Laverty said.

"Houses in the CBD and in North Dalby are holding their value well as they are in good locations and the style of their homes (are popular with buyers).”