Experts reveal the QLD spots to property shop for every budget
Queensland is barrelling towards its hottest spring selling season in years, and with everything from affordable new homes to mega mansions. Here is where experts say to buy.
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Queensland is barrelling towards its hottest spring selling season ever, and with everything from affordable first houses in new estates to mega mansions with incredible water views on offer, it is no wonder all eyes are on the Sunshine State.
But soaring buyer demand from locals cashing in on the record low interest rates and lockdown weary southerners looking north for a lifestyle change, combined with a lack of listings, is creating a fierce race to secure a home.
And that pressure is being felt across much of the state, with more flexible working arrangements opening up horizons and budgets.
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New data from REA Group shows that regional Queensland is seeing the sharpest rise in views per listing in the state, led by Pacific Haven on the Fraser Coast.
There, views per listing rose a staggering 321 per cent from 2019/20 to 2020/21.
It was followed by Rainbow Beach (Gympie), where views per listing were up 263 per cent, and Karalee (Ipswich), up 237 per cent.
In terms of total views per listing, Guanaba, a semirural suburb of the Gold Coast, is leading the pack with 8713 clicks per property.
It was followed by Tugun, also on the Gold Coast, with 8378 views per listing, and Holland Park in Brisbane (8197).
But REA Group executive manager of economic research Cameron Kusher said there were still housing options for every budget across Brisbane and the entire state, from units in the most expensive Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast markets, to townhouses in Brisbane’s inner ring and houses in Ipswich, Moreton Bay, Mackay, Townsville and Cairns
“In reality, property in Queensland is still very affordable compared to places in Sydney and Melbourne,” he said.
“We have seen strong growth across all prices points, from first home buyers and upgraders to the luxury market, and that is right across the southeast corner, and into the regions.”
Mr Kusher said he expected the migration from interstate to Queensland to continue, particularly out of markets where properties were becoming less affordable and lifestyle was being restricted by lockdowns.
Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk hit pause on relocations from interstate Covid-19 hot spots for two weeks on Wednesday, closing the border to not only residents moving from Sydney and Melbourne, but also Queensland residents returning home.
At the time, she said “Queensland is being loved to death”, citing concerns about the pressure on quarantine hotels.
And the influx of cashed-up interstate buyers and expats has also put increased pressure on house prices across the southeast corner, in particular, but experts from across five of Queensland’s biggest real estate franchises have shared their top picks for buyers – with sellers in those same suburbs also urged to consider their options.
McGrath Brisbane general manager of sales Charles Higgins said the state’s capital was now home to 51 suburbs with median house prices over $1 million.
But he said there were still affordable options close to the CBD, suggesting apartments for first home buyers who were keen to live close to the city, or houses in the middle ring suburbs of Ferny Hills and Arana Hills.
Ray White chief economist Nerida Conisbee also suggested first home buyers look at the apartment market for inner-city or beachfront living, or going further afield for a home with the same features but a more affordable price.
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She added that new residential estate also offered options for first home buyers.
On the Sunshine Coast, which recently recorded Queensland’s highest ever residential sales price of $34 million, suburb records are being broken regularly.
But there are still pockets of affordability if you don’t have the same bank balance as a billionaire mining magnate.
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RE/MAX First Caloundra owner Karl Rademeyer said new estates like Aura were expanding rapidly, and was popular with first home buyers, while Caloundra, with its beaches and proximity to the new hospital and shopping precincts, still had some affordable options for families.
But he said competition was fierce in the prestige market, with buyers “competing aggressively”.
Options open right up the further away from the southeast corner you get, with first home buyers able to afford a modern house in places like Townsville, Mackay and Cairns.
For a family budget of between $750,000 and $1.5 million, you can also buy into some of the most prestigious suburbs in regional Queensland.
RE/MAX Partners agent Reece O’Brien said that budget would comfortable buy an acreage property in the Wide Bay/Fraser Coast region.
“It is still a tight market but there is scope for five-acre properties in Sunshine Acres, homes on half acre in Wondunna and Urangan or on the Esplanade, the elevated Craignish with water views and Dundowran Beach,” he said.
In the $1.5 million-plus category, all of the experts picked the same suburb in Townsville – Castle Hill.
“Castle Hill remains the top pick for top end homes in Townsville,” McGrath Queensland manager and head of auctions Justin Marsden said.
“It has amazing views of the water and across to the islands while remaining close to the heart of Townsville.”
FIRST HOME BUYERS UNDER $750,000
THE EXPERTS
Ray White chief economist Nerida Conisbee (NC)
McGrath Queensland manager and head of auctions Justin Marsden (JM)
RE/MAX Australian managing director Joel Davoren (JD)
Harcourts Queensland CEO Mitch Peereboom (MP)
BRISBANE NORTH
Teneriffe: Teneriffe is Brisbane’s most expensive suburb with a median now over $2 million. It is however still possible to enjoy the suburb’s amenity without the big price tag by looking at the apartment market. The median apartment price in Teneriffe is $630,000 which means for under $750,000 you should get a fair assortment of options available. NC
Ferny Hills/Arana Hills: Both are becoming increasingly popular due to the high demand, affordability, high rent returns and liveability of this area. Both are becoming increasingly a favourite for the first homebuyer or for the entry level property portfolio investor. JM
Albany Creek, Eatons Hill, Warner: Approximately 20-25km from the CBD, which in Sydney would be classed as ‘inner city’. Established homes from new through to 20-years-old. Still has availability of low set four-bedroom, two-bathroom homes on 600-700sq m blocks in good locations and school catchments. JD
Banyo: If you are searching for the perfect blend of proximity to the city and affordability look no further. MP
BRISBANE SOUTH
Windaroo: Windaroo has a median price of $585,000 and has seen decent price and rental growth over the past 12 months. The homes are large and blocks are a decent size. It has a golf course which adds to the amenity of the suburb. NC
South Brisbane/Woolloongabba: Both offer a choice of cafes, retail and bars, and it is walkable. In Woolloongabba, South City Square is set to create another inner south hub and further development and redevelopment ahead of the 2032 Olympics. JM
Mount Gravatt East, Carina Heights, Mansfield: Approximately 10km from the Brisbane CBD, there is still value to be had in these south/eastern suburbs. Offering a mixture of older entry level houses and townhouses, these suburbs offer the conveniences sought by first home buyers. JD
Slacks Creek: First home buyers must be serious about Logan. Positioned just outside the Brisbane City Council, Slacks Creek offers affordability without sacrificing any amenities and easy access to the M1. These markets are only getting stronger. MP
BRISBANE EAST
Russell Island: Island life isn’t for everyone and the isolation may not appeal but the median price for Russell Island is less than $250,000. It has also become incredibly popular during the pandemic with prices rising by in excess of 30 per cent. If you have a flexible job, enjoy a laid back lifestyle and don’t have a big deposit, it may be worth a look. NC
Wynnum/Manly: The unit market in the heart of Wynnum and Manly for FHB’s is offering choice and it’s one of the most picturesque parts of the east to live. There are also housing options just a little further back from the waterfront. The growing restaurant and cafe/bar culture is what seems to be keeping generations here and they are bringing their friends to enjoy the bayside lifestyle with boating at the top of the list. JM
Morningside: There is still great buying in Morningside, with a variety of near-new townhouses still great value. Morningside is the more affordable option to first home buyers looking to be close to the city. Alternatively, houses in Murarrie that are ripe for renovation still fall into this bracket. JD
Wynnum: Buying close to the water and 14 kilometres to the CBD is a recipe for success and Wynnum has flown under the radar with many affordable properties transacting over the last 12 months. This lifestyle is attracting some significant builds and renovations which are setting the tone for strong years of growth on the Bayside ahead. MP
BRISBANE WEST
North Ipswich: It is almost impossible to find suburbs with medians under $350,000 in our capital cities, particularly one that is seeing more than 14 per cent price growth and over 6 per cent rental growth. North Ipswich has a mix of houses – from renovated Queenslanders to some that require a lot of work. It certainly is affordable. NC
Springfield Lakes: Springfield Lakes is growing rapidly with a number of new infrastructure projects and it provides a choice of housing from small to large land parcels and some unit or townhome dwellings. Surrounded by parks and lifestyle living. It’s the perfect place for those who are not looking to reside close to the city. JM
Centenary: The Centenary cluster suburbs (postcode 4074) is a very hot market. It is where first home buyers, many with children, some planning to have them, are attracted by the good schools and affordability. They buy to stay in the home for at least 10 to 15 years. They can buy 40 to 50-year-old homes that need work, without overcapitalising. JD
Oxley: Follow the road from the prestigious suburbs of Chelmer, Sherwood and Graceville and you will find this bustling community that has taken off. Further development is underway and owners have experienced accelerated growth over the last year. This region is one to watch. MP
GOLD COAST
Palm Beach: The best thing about the Gold Coast are the beautiful beaches (at least in my opinion) so if I had a budget of less than $750,000 I would look at a beachside apartment. In Palm Beach, the median price for an apartment is $600,000. Not only have apartments in this area seen strong price growth but rental growth has also been great. NC
Surfers Paradise: For units, Surfers is proving to be a hot spot for first home buyers who love the night life and cafe culture, and then they can just chill out at the beach in their down time. Also you don’t have to own a car as everything is here. JM
Benowa, Southport, Labrador, Molendinar, Carrara: These suburbs offer mainly townhouses, duplexes and units or very small houses for this price. Popular for the young workers because they are close to all amenities like – hospitals, university and CBD. JD
Upper Coomera: This corridor has enjoyed rapid growth and is becoming the choice for families who are looking for a blend of Gold Coast proximity and practicality with the commute to Brisbane being not too far for some. MP
SUNSHINE COAST
Sunrise Beach: The Sunshine Coast has seen incredible price growth over the past 12 months and buying a house in many beachside areas is now out of reach for most first home buyers. Buying an apartment however isn’t, and Sunrise Beach’s median price for an apartment is $600,000. NC
Beerwah: Beerwah people are wonderful and friendly and there is a great community feel. It is surrounded by the hinterland and it is well poised for solid growth. It’s a beautiful area to live and you can still enjoy the beach lifestyle only 30 minutes away. JM
CAIRNS
Freshwater: Freshwater houses are likely to have now exceeded the $750,000 median but it is still possible to get a unit for an affordable price. The median for units is currently just $250,000 however prices have increased significantly over the past 12 months. Close to the beach, to the CBD and lots of amenity, there is a lot to like. NC
Gordonvale, Babinda: First home buyers are now gravitating towards established homes in the $450,000 to $550,000 price range, predominantly in the outer suburbs. The southern Cairns corridor offers relatively new homes, good schools and sporting facilities and there is considerable infrastructure in pace or planned to meet the needs of young families. JD
TOWNSVILLE
Bushland Beach: Townsville is not an expensive city and has lots of options at this price point. The suburb of Bushland Beach has a median of $420,000 and has seen significant price and rental growth over the past 12 months. It also has a great beach. NC
North Ward: North Ward and it’s proximity to the The Strand and the Townsville beach precinct makes it very attractive. There are markets and plenty of running tracks including Castle Hill just a stroll away. Those wanting a city buzz and atmosphere are choosing to live here. JM
New estates: The newer subdivisions such as Harris Crossing, Greater Ascot and Sanctum are definitely on the radar of a lot of first home buyers entering the market. Here they can take full advantage of the rebates while gaining a brand-new home with builders’ warranties and worry-free living for many years to come. JD
MACKAY/WHITSUNDAY
Blacks Beach: Containing arguably the best beach in the region, Blacks Beach is also surprisingly affordable with a median of $385,000. Prices have increased significantly over the past 12 months. NC
Blacks Beach: First home buyers can live the lifestyles of the rich and famous with a budget of $750k in Mackay and the Whitsundays. $500,000 in Mackay will get you four bedrooms, two bathrooms, side access and a decent yard near the beach. JD
WIDE BAY/FRASER COAST
Tin Can Bay: It is a popular tourist destination but also affordable for first home buyers. Tin Can Bay has a median of just $379,000. Prices have increased by 17 per cent over the past 12 months. NC
Hervey Bay: This is the up-to-$450,000 price bracket, if a property can be found in what is and extraordinarily tight market. The best chances are in Urangan, Kawungan, Eli Waters and Urraween. JD
TOOWOOMBA
Kingsthorpe: There are a lot of options for suburbs with medians under $400,000 in Toowoomba however Kingsthorpe is currently seeing the highest price growth, nearly 15 per cent. The suburb is a bit out of town and is quiet which may not appeal to everyone. NC
East Toowoomba: Properties here hold their value long term. They are mostly character homes on large blocks. The $400,000 to $450,000 range is the popular buy-in price in a suburb with a $380,000 median. First home buyers see serviceability in their loans and a location that affords the greatest opportunity for capital growth. JD
FAMILIES $750,000 TO $1.5M
THE EXPERTS
Ray White chief economist Nerida Conisbee (NC)
McGrath Queensland manager and head of auctions Justin Marsden (JM)
RE/MAX Australian managing director Joel Davoren (JD)
Queensland Sotheby’s International Realty CEO Paul Arthur (PA)
Harcourts Queensland CEO Mitch Peereboom (MP)
BRISBANE NORTH
Kalinga: There are lots of great suburbs in this price point in the north however I have choose Kalinga. Bounded by Kedron Brook, with a median of $1.09 million, it is well connected. It also has nice parks and cafes in the vicinity. NC
Spring Hill: Spring Hill is as close to the city as you can get, where you can pick up quaint sized and affordable blocks with very liveable, character-filled homes. With some minor adjustments, under $1.5 million would pick up a slightly renovated home here on a smaller sized block.
Eatons Hill, Cashmere, Bunya: Families are continuing to gravitate to affordable acreage. $900k-$1.5m will provide access to a large family home with 1.5 acres of land, along with all the bells and whistles (pools, sheds etc). All still within 25km of the city. JD
Kalinga: This suburb just continues to shine. A wonderful family area close to schools and amenities. The renos taking place are first class making older homes now aspirational. PA
Wavell Heights: The fast emerging epicentre of some of the northside’s trendiest builds and renovations, Wavell Heights offers a 10 minute commute to the CBD and airport. Your neighbours multi million dollar sales are setting new benchmarks paving the way for capital growth in your future. MP
BRISBANE SOUTH
Woollongabba: Woollongabba has a median price of $915,000 and has cafes, restaurants and is highly walkable. It is also going to have significant investment over the next decade because of the Olympic Games. The Gabba itself will have a $1 billion upgrade. Buying here means not only enjoying amenity of the additional infrastructure spending but will also give you proximity to the Games. NC
Mt Gravatt/Upper Mt Gravatt: Mount Gravatt and surrounding Upper Mt Gravatt are growing suburbs and a top pick for those on the southside. There is room to move on a mixture of large older homesites, and new high density development in the area is well connected to the CBD with plenty of transport options. With a nearby university campus and easy access, people love the amenities of the area. JM
Tarragindi, Holland Park, Coorparoo, Greenslopes, Camp Hill: Quality schooling, connectivity to the CBD and a short walking distance to parks, cafes and public transport is driving demand in these areas. JD
Woolloongabba: There’s so much upside for this suburb with infrastructure abound, upgrades to restaurants, and proximity to the CBD. 2032 is not too far away and the Woolloongabba is one of the big winners of our Olympic win. PA
Mansfield: Buyers are ravenous to purchase in the best school catchments and Mansfield regularly attracts double digit bidders at auction. If you can get your name on a contract – you have bought some of Brisbane’s hottest real estate. MP
BRISBANE EAST
Ormiston: It is hard to find homes with beach views for under $1.5 million but Ormiston does provide them. It also has great schools, some beautiful homes and a train line to Brisbane. It is also a quiet, leafy suburb which would appeal to many buyers. NC
Cannon Hill: Cannon Hill has been a quiet achiever however has really taken off and is growing in demand. There is a good choice of schools, public transport and shopping centres close by. The older homes are on larger lots which families are looking for and with the potential for renovation there is room to expand existing homes or rebuild new in the future. JM
Seven Hills: Families love the leafy tree lined streets of Seven Hills with its quiet family vibe, local cafes like the Rabbit Hole bursting from the seams on the weekends full of young families with prams, matching bicycles and fur babies. Larger blocks and fully fenced yards still exist. JD
Toowong: Being close to retail precincts, walkways and bike ways, the river, top schools and the university makes Toowong highly desirable. PA
Carina Heights: As the face of the suburb evolves, sale prices continue to climb as buyers spill over looking for opportunities outside of Camp Hill and Norman Park. 8 kilometres to the CBD, lucrative neighbouring suburbs and plenty of upside make Carina Heights a real winner. MP
BRISBANE WEST
Graceville: Graceville tipped over the $1 million median during the year and has had both strong rental and price growth. Lots of nice homes, parks, a train line and places to eat out. NC
Tarragindi: It’s a favourite for families looking for a quiet leafy pocket yet remaining close to the city, bordering Toohey State has helped for it to retain that feel. For those looking for a bit of city meets county here it is. JM
Kenmore: These buyers are on to their second or third home. They are long-term stayers, often with teenagers, and looking for large homes on big blocks that the family can grow into. Good schools are again major attractors. Many are holding on to closer-to-city units to rent out while they buy bigger homes. It is a transitional move from the inner-city urban lifestyle to the family lifestyle. The Kenmore market is phenomenally strong. Indooroopilly is also highly sought after. JD
GOLD COAST
Miami: Miami has seen almost 30 per cent price growth but still has a median unit value under $1 million. Not only does it have a great beach but there are lots of nice cafes and restaurants. There are also a wide range of price points for homes. NC
Robina, Varsity Lakes, Southport, Ashmore, Burleigh Waters: These areas are all popular due to the convenience to schools, major shopping centres, universities, sporting facilities and transport. JD
Mermaid Waters: It has beautiful beaches, a buzzing cafe scene and a laid back lifestyle. There is a range of housing options that are close to good public transport and Broadbeach shops. You will feel like you are on a permanent holiday. JM
SUNSHINE COAST
Minyama: You won’t get the best house in Minyama for under $1.5 million but you will still get something pretty nice. Surrounded by water and close to the beach, it is no surprise that prices and rents have lifted significantly over the past 12 months. NC
Buderim: Buderim has retained it’s rural feel and is still surrounded by large parcels of land and newer smaller home sites. The buzzing village has everything you need. You will love the family friendly atmosphere, schools and surrounding parklands while being only a short drive to the beach. JM
Little Mountain, Aroona, Meridan Plains and Caloundra West: The popular areas for families are in these suburbs. Older Golden Beach properties are also being snapped up for renovations and rebuilds. JD
Buderim: With changes in workplace occupancy Buderim stands to be a big winner with more & more folk working from home. Buderim is such a beautiful area and will be highly sort after for the Sunshine Coast. PA
Southport: Central, well renowned and a solid market to invest. Whether you do nothing, redevelop or renovate the location should always be a winner. MP
CAIRNS
Clifton Beach: Not as expensive as Palm Cove, Clifton Beach offers beachside living with a median of $612,000. Quiet beaches and nice homes are a key part of what has driven prices and rents in this part of Cairns over the past 12 months. NC
City View Estate and Upper Mount Sheridan: Elevated properties offering views, larger homes and granny flats (or spaces that can be converted into teenage retreats) fall into this buyer category, who are often families with teenagers. Both are good prospects. JD
Port Douglas: A playground for the affluent, Covid-19 has had a major impact on property in the region with many high-net worth families taking the opportunity to purchase and upgrade. It will always be a contender for one of Queensland’s best lifestyle locations. PA
TOWNSVILLE
North Ward: North Ward may be Townsville’s second most expensive suburb but it is easily possible to get a beautiful home here within this price range. The suburb is on the beach and has two great parks – The Strand and Queens Gardens. NC
Alice River: Alice River is proving to be a family friendly suburb with a large percentage of family homeowners choosing to live here because of its healthy vibe, large blocks of land and more relaxed traffic conditions creating a safer street network for kids. It’s a great place to bring up a family. JM
Annandale, Douglas, Idalia, Mount Louisa: These suburbs are extremely popular with families looking in this price range due to the proximity to excellent schools, sporting facilities, shopping centres, beautiful parklands and entertainment precincts, as well as the hospital, university and Lavarack Barracks. JD
MACKAY/WHITSUNDAY
Shoal Point: Shoal Point is a small suburb, on the beach with a laid-back lifestyle. The median currently sits at $545,000 which means that with a budget in excess of $750,000 you could get a pretty nice home. NC
Richmond Hills: Popular for acreage living. Families can enjoy prestige acreage living (think the Gumdale of the North). The rolling green hills are dotted with new builds, pools, sheds, large lifestyle allotments of a few acres, perfect for families to expand on. JD
WIDE BAY/FRASER COAST
Rainbow Beach: Rainbow Beach has the best access to Fraser Island and a median of $582,500 so would be easily within this price range. The town has seen strong price and rental growth over the past 18 months, driven by people seeking a lifestyle change, as well as for holiday homes. NC
Sunshine Acres, Wondunna, Urangan, Craignish, Dundowran Beach: These buyers are generally in the $500,000 to $1 million range. It is still a tight market but there is scope for five-acre properties in Sunshine Acres, homes on half acre in Wondunna and Urangan or on the Esplanade, the elevated Craignish with water views and Dundowran Beach. JD
TOOWOOMBA
Rangeville: Rangeville has a median of $519,000 so easily within this price range. It is one of Toowoomba’s nicest suburbs with good schools and great amenity. NC
East Toowoomba: The family market is competing with the first home buyers who want all the attributes of a larger, better appointed family home. The $750K buyer demographic is very specific – professionals with very solid incomes – who recognise value and capital growth. JD
LUXURY $1.5 million plus
THE EXPERTS
Ray White chief economist Nerida Conisbee (NC)
McGrath Queensland manager and head of auctions Justin Marsden (JM)
RE/MAX Australian managing director Joel Davoren (JD)
Queensland Sotheby’s International Realty CEO Paul Arthur (PA)
Harcourts Queensland CEO Mitch Peereboom (MP)
BRISBANE NORTH
Samford Valley: Samford Valley is between Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast so provides access to both beachside and city. And with more people working flexibly and wanting more space, the homes and properties are particularly large. NC
Samford, Shorncliffe: An assortment of luxury homes can be found in these locations. Samford offers large executive style homes on acreage, while Shorncliffe offers predominantly Queenslander-style homes with either views or proximity to the water. JD
Newstead, Teneriffe: The luxury waterfront apartment market is where you’ll find some of Australia’s most sought after elite properties. With an eclectic mix of character-filled rejuvenated wool store heritage buildings, you’ll also find the most architecturally designed and celebrity-worthy new apartments selling for upwards of $7,350,000. JM
Ascot: A blue chip suburb that needs little introduction, Ascot is a bulletproof investment that is home to some of Brisbane’s best real estate. If you can buy real estate in Ascot – buy it. MP
BRISBANE SOUTH
Coorparoo, Camp Hill, East Brisbane: Renovated character homes and contemporary new builds offering space for growing families are attracting ‘upgraders’ to the inner south/eastern suburbs. Quality schooling and access to the CBD are also attractive attributes. JD
Coorparoo: Coorparoo has evolved dramatically during recent years with the redevelopment of Coorparoo Square that has fast become the food, cafe and transport hub. The large homes on oversized lots with sweeping city views have become the sought after real estate across the suburb. Understated yet extravagant is what attracts and retains people in Coorparoo. JM
Chelmer: This prestigious pocket of Brisbane offers exclusivity and community. With landmark sales, it is rich with character and charm. MP
BRISBANE EAST
Point Lookout: If you love the beach, a view and a relaxed lifestyle, Point Lookout, Queensland’s most easterly point, is worth a look. The suburb is achieving more than 10 per cent price growth. It isn’t great if you need to make a Brisbane commute but offers high amenity and has some beautiful homes. NC
Bulimba: The riverfront precinct never goes out of fashion. Bulimba continues to offer a fantastic mixture of luxury east side real estate, its proximity to top tier schools, its ease of living and recently revitalised Oxford St are all draw cards for the popular riverside suburb. JD
Bulimba, Hawthorne, Balmoral: Surrounded by the Brisbane River and a bit land locked the 4171 precinct will welcome the Bulimba Barracks river front redevelopment creating a mix of housing types including detached, attached, terrace and units, much needed in the local area. Multiple ferry terminals, restaurants, quality schools and overall location will continue to see the area as one of the aspirational suburbs of inner city Brisbane. JM
Chandler: Tightly held, and acreage estates in vogue across our nation. Chandler leads the way in Luxury for Brisbane’s East. (PA)
BRISBANE WEST
Paddington, Taringa, Mount Ommaney: This market spans from massive inner-city apartments to massive homes on acreage. Paddington is hot. A buyer recently picked up side-by-side Taringa blocks with the intention of removing the existing two houses to build the large family home. Mt Ommaney is a suburb of mostly architecturally designed homes on very large blocks. Anything with river views in the Ipswich corridor is worth looking at. JD
Auchenflower, St Lucia, Toowong: Above $1.5 million is the benchmark for entry to quality finished homes. These suburbs are close to the Western Districts Rugby Club, the Regatta Hotel, Toowong Village, elite schools, the University of Queensland and plenty of riverfront and river views, all factors that play a crucial role to the ongoing success of the regions capital growth. JM
Ashgrove: If proximity to the city is important, but you don’t want to sacrifice the family and community feel, Ashgrove is home to some of Brisbane’s finest Queenslander renovations. MP
GOLD COAST
Tallebudgera: Two suburbs recently hit a $1.5 million median on the Gold Coast – Tallebudgera and Broadbeach Waters. While both have wide appeal, I have chosen Tallebudgera, primarily because it offers giant homes on giant blocks. It is a fair way from the beach, but the homes and property sizes make up for it. NC
Isle of Capri, Broadbeach Waters, Burleigh Heads, Palm Beach, Mermaid Beach: Very popular based on being close to the beach, many cafes and restaurants; and for the boaties, of course, to be on the waterfront. JD
Paradise Point: Paradise Point is a stand out suburb on the northern part of the Gold Coast and is well known for its lively village atmosphere and dining precinct, encompassing Ephraim Island and it’s modern apartments and Sovereign Islands with some of the most lavish homes on the Gold Coast. It’s a laid back boaties paradise. JM
Main Beach: After decades of no new builds, Main Beach is awash with significant new developments, which will include some of the most Luxurious on offer for the coast. Tedder Avenue is becoming revitalised again. PA
Palm Beach: As buyers continue to migrate south and discover the incredible real estate south of Burleigh, Palm Beach is no longer the best kept secret. Sale prices have sky rocketed and the luxury market is now rivalling more northern sales for value and prestige. MP
SUNSHINE COAST
Sunshine Beach: If I had a big budget, I would be choosing Sunshine Beach. Prices have rocketed over the past 12 months and the median is now close to $2.2 million. Nevertheless, it is hard to beat for lifestyle and beautiful beaches. NC
Moffat Beach, Dicky Beach, Shelly Beach: These beachside suburbs, together with the new Pelican Waters marina development, are the most sought-after suburbs in the luxury sector and buyers are competing aggressively to secure a property in these areas. JD
Noosa: Noosa remains a long time fave for locals, interstate and overseas buyers, with properties ranging from $1.5 million to in excess $20 million. With long established capital growth and an array of housing options, Noosa still has something for everyone even at the top end. You can enjoy being as sophisticated or as relaxed as you like – go boating or fishing, enjoy some of the best beaches, coastal walks and restaurants or do nothing. JM
Sunshine Beach: The heat of the market in Noosa burns bright with surrounding markets lifting with the tide. Interstate interest will always underpin Queensland’s lucrative holiday destination. MP
CAIRNS
Palm Cove: Palm Cove is an expensive suburb for Cairns however has a median under $1 million. It has however seen strong price growth and for more than $1.5 million you would be getting a pretty nice home. NC
Kewarra Beach, Clifton Beach, Palm Cove: Ocean views or being close to water is the requirement. Kewarra Beach and Clifton Beach are popular. Also Palm Cove for Agentea Estate or luxury apartments on the waterfront. JD
TOWNSVILLE
Castle Hill: Castle Hill is the only suburb in Townsville with a median over $1 million and it is not surprising. From the luxury homes to the stunning views, there is a lot to like. The suburb has recorded 15 per cent price growth over the past 12 months. NC
Castle Hill: Castle Hill remains the top pick for top end homes in Townsville. It has amazing views of the water and across to the islands while remaining close to the heart of Townsville. JM
Castle Hill: This is the premier suburb in Townsville with substantial homes and expansive views across Cape Cleveland, the Strand and the CBD, and its proximity to the Townsville Grammar School makes it all the more attractive to buyers looking for that upper-end lifestyle. JD
Castle Hill: The high end market in Townsville has enjoyed a number of multi million dollar sales over the last 12 months which should give every confidence as the market bounces back from those years of volatility in the market. MP
MACKAY/WHITSUNDAY
Airlie Beach: Airlie Beach has not surprisingly hit a $1 million median after seeing almost 40 per cent price growth. Beautiful beaches, year round nice weather and luxury homes make this a really attractive area to live. NC
East Point: With helicopter pads and rooftop pools, East Point near the marina is decorated with some of Mackay’s highest value and prestigious homes. Park the yacht at the marina and stroll down to the cafes, bars and restaurants and enjoy all of the sunshine and good times that North Queensland has on offer. JD
Whitsunday & Islands: Hamilton Island is enjoying renewed desire to own with some standout sales in recent months. Airlie Beach is having a major transformation from backpacker lodgings to sophisticated restaurant, bars, and lifestyle playground. Hayman Island has also made itself a viable luxury option in the region with Hayman Estates on offer. (PA)
WIDE BAY/FRASER COAST
Dundowran Beach: Dundowran Beach is one of the most expensive suburbs on the Fraser Coast and has a beautiful beach and luxury homes. Prices have jumped by more than 20% over the past 12 months. NC
The Esplanade suburbs: The high-end market is moving the most it has ever moved. Buyers can look at any suburb along the Esplanade – Urangan, Torquay, Scarness, Pialba to Point Vernon. Also, Craignish, Dundowran Beach and Urraween, specifically Ghost Hill for prestige homes with water views. JD
TOOWOOMBA
Prince Henry Heights: Prince Henry Heights has the highest median in Toowoomba at $755,000 and has also seen strong price growth, far higher than all other high end suburbs in the region. It isn’t surprising given the elevation of the suburb, amazing views and beautiful homes. NC
East Toowoomba: This market is moving, with people buying large character homes on acreage, especially while money is so cheap. There’s an emotional state – buy while I can.
As a suburb, East Toowoomba is the standout across all these markets. JD
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Originally published as Experts reveal the QLD spots to property shop for every budget
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