Affordable housing at the forefront of Territorians’ concerns, survey finds

A NEW report breaks down what’s important to Territorians when making a life in Darwin. The analysis by realestate.com.au and Ipsos found the top six most important factors to people when buying and living in Darwin

A new report found access to affordable and decent housing was at the forefront of people’s concerns when living in Darwin. Picture: Supplied

FINDING cheap, well-built properties is at the forefront of people’s concerns when making a life in Darwin.

The Life in Australia Index report by realestate.com.au and Ipsos surveyed 9515 people and found the top six factors most important to Territorians when living in Darwin.

Access to affordable, decent housing ranked first at 84 per cent, which was the highest percentage nationwide.

Reliable and efficient public transport options was sixth at 16 per cent.

Elders Leanyer residential property consultant Derek Hart said affordability and structural integrity were people’s main concerns when entering the market.

“A big priority is the worry of cyclones up here,” he said.

REAL ESTATE: Darwin leading the way in investment value

“People are concerned about structures, what’s certified and not. Most are looking at good solid homes with not a lot of work to be done.

“There’s a good percentage of people price driven so they will go out to places like Palmerston if its cheaper.”

Mr Hart said it was also a concern with investors, who search primarily for solid, low maintenance properties in order to make immediate profit.

He said access to high-quality education, which was at 31 per cent, ought to be in the top six with majority of clients prioritising proximity to schools.

“There’s a focus on catchment areas for schools,” he said.

“People look for schools first and then watch the properties available in the catchment.”

The report also features a performance review of liveability attributes.

The highest ratings were access to the natural environment at 7.4 out of 10 and a lack of road congestion at 7.1 out of 10.

“Darwin is a real outdoor living location,” he said.

“It’s all about being outdoors and the weather helps with that. People enjoying being outdoors whereas down south its too cold.”

Darwin was scored 59.3 out of 100 for overall liveability, a 2.3 point drop from 2018.