If your patch includes family-friendly suburbs, there’s a good chance you’ll be in for a strong year.
Realestate.com.au’s annual Hot 100 list has identified suburbs property experts believe will outperform this year, based on factors including affordability, location and investment prospects.
The key factor for agents was that nearly 40 per cent of the suburbs on the list were selected specifically for their family appeal.
“Families with children account for the largest share of family types in the country, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, making family appeal a strong indicator of property growth prospects,” the report said.
The suburbs flagged for growth share common traits including proximity to good schools, access to parks and recreational spaces, diverse housing options at different price points, and strong community infrastructure.
In practical terms, that means agents in these areas should be fluent in local school catchments, upcoming development projects, and the lifestyle amenities that matter to families weighing up their next move.
In New South Wales, Box Hill recorded 10 per cent house price growth over the past 12 months, while Charlestown and Wyoming on the Central Coast are drawing families with their mix of affordability and amenity access.
Victoria’s family hotspots span a wide price range. Kennington recorded 19 per cent unit price growth, while Lalor saw 8 per cent growth in houses – both well under the state median.
At the premium end, Williamstown units jumped 20 per cent.
Queensland dominates the list with nine family-focused suburbs.
Yeronga led with 29 per cent house price growth, followed by Highfields and Wavell Heights at 15 per cent each.
The growth corridor suburbs of Ripley, Griffin and Baringa are benefiting from ongoing development of schools and community facilities.
In Western Australia, Ellenbrook’s 12 per cent house price growth reflects strong demand for affordable family homes near transport and schools.
Baldivis units surged 24 per cent.
South Australia’s Old Noarlunga posted 27 per cent house price growth, while Brooklyn Park units rose 23 per cent.
Tasmania’s Sorell saw 10 per cent house price growth as families seek affordable options near Hobart.
In the ACT, established suburbs Giralang and Melba offer large family homes on leafy streets with proximity to schools – Giralang units grew 9 per cent despite the broader market softening.
The common thread across all these suburbs is ongoing development including new schools, community hubs, transport links and recreational facilities.
For agents, that creates two opportunities – positioning yourself as the local expert who knows what’s coming to the area, and targeting family buyers who may not yet have these suburbs on their radar.
The data suggests family buyers are willing to compromise on location for the right combination of space, schools and community – which means your marketing should lead with lifestyle, not just property features.
