Aline Suter of Coffs Coast Real Estate provides top tips for home buyers

Whether you’re just entering the market, seeking a great investment, or have a specific home in mind, here is a guide for entering the busy housing market. See what an expert advised.

The housing market is a scary beast to navigate due to rising house prices and a steadily growing population since Covid.

Aline Suter, of Coffs Coast Real Estate has 20 years of industry experience and said the market is “hot”, but suggests research, and considering personal factors before committing to a property.

“The location, personal taste and your home wish list should all be considered when searching for property,” Ms Suter said.

According to Realestate.com, the median house sale price in Coffs Harbour is sitting at $740,000 – with a 26 per cent growth from 12 months ago.

Aline Suter from Coffs Coast Real Estate has been in the industry for almost 20 years and said the market is “hot”.

The newly elected labor government are offering to pay “up to 30 to 40 per cent” equity for eligible low-middle income earners toward a home.

This is paid back to the government over time, offering lower income earners with the chance of entering the market.

Ms Suter recommends clarifying zoning from council as a first priority.

“This is important in knowing what you can and can’t do on the land,” she said.

This can be viewed in council documents and may help a buyer consider what potential a property has.

“You could subdivide in the future or build extra shedding – or another home,” Ms Suter said.

She recommends studying a suburb before committing and considering the areas that surrounds it.

“Any property with beautiful waterways, beaches, state forests, walking trails or natural beauty cannot be replicated. Shopping centres and towns can change but nature is the foundation that attracts both owner occupiers and holiday investors. It’s great to be able to buy ahead of the pack,” Ms Suter said.

This property on Sandon Cl, Coffs Harbour, is one of the most expensive on the market right now, with a price of $1,950,000 on realestate.com.

She mentioned Nambucca and Park Beach as hot suburbs to consider.

“Park Beach has some great buying, developments are coming to the area and facilities – all within level walking distance – nearby,” she said.

Ms Suter also notes towns such as Armidale, Bingara and Uralla as potential “great returns”.

In an era where the competition for property in Coffs Harbour is such that people are prepared to buy without viewing it physically, it may be worth considering property outside of town.

Another consideration is the sewer diagram – found on the contract of sale.

“You may find your backyard has loads of unencumbered space – perfect for a pool, shed or a tiny home,” she said.

An example of a floor plan, which Ms Suter recommends studying beforehand.

Ms Suter said an attractive feature to be aware of in modern homes is versatility, such as a work-from-home space, or “room for future in-laws”.

She also mentioned a “floor plan that allows a sectioned off area for Airbnb” – a way to make returns on the investment.

Ms Suter stressed that parking can play a huge role in housing costs.

“A home may be in a lower price range as other buyers have overlooked it online due to not having the amount of parking they require,” she said.

Being a savvy buyer involves researching: inspecting zoning and council plans for future gains.

“Something as simple as buying the property and putting on an additional shed may immediately increase the property resale value – sometimes an instant property win for a buyer,” she said.

A a property report can be generated through the NSW planning portal, providing useful information.

Ms Suter’s final recommendation for newcomers is to consider if the property needs a repaint – and if so: investing in a brush.