Sold On Northern Rivers 2019

Australia’s No 1 property site™

SOLD BUYING

SELLING

ON

N O R T H E R N

INVESTING

R I V E R S

AUGUST 31, 2019

MARKET WRAP

OUR TOP PERFORMING SUBURBS A BUYER’S GUIDE

SUBURB PROFILES

DETAILED INFORMATION INCLUDING ALL THE LATEST DATA

FIND OUT what your property is worth

HOW TO maximise your selling price

EXPERT ADVICE on property investment

expand your horizons Limited release large house blocks now selling from $300,000 - $425,000.

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Page 2

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Page 4

INSIDE

BYRON REIGNS SUPREME

The jewel in the crown of Northern Rivers property market, Byron Bay and its glamorous suburb of Wategos Beach are more appealing than ever, which means property there doesn’t come cheap. Read more on pages 18-19 and 26-27.

PHOTO: KATE O'NEILL

Up-to-date property info for all real estate buyers EDITOR’S NOTE DEMOGRAPHER Bernard Salt has declared the Northern Rivers as “the leading edge of Australia’s lifestyle movement”.

The region’s incredible natural beauty, climate, sense of community and urban amenities make it one of the most desirable places in the country to live, work and retire, and this appears to have helped shield the local property market from the extremes of the national downturn felt during the past two years.

REA chief economist Nerida Conisbee recently commented on the strength of the local property market, citing “growing international recognition of the region as one of the best place in Australia to be” as one of the driving factors behind this stability.

The figures are there to back it up.

The Northern Rivers property market has held its own in the past 12 months, with some areas posting impressive double digit growth.

Figures for the June quarter show the best performing areas for price growth in the past 12 months were Ewingsdale in the Byron Shire,

EDITOR Kate O’Neill kateoneill2@ northernstar.com.au Phone: 6620 0450 ADVERTISING Lee Grimes Key Account Manager Real Estate Phone: 6620 0404 Published by: The Northern Star Ltd, Media Centre, Ballina Rd, Goonellabah, NSW 2480 (ABN 43 000 011174) and printed by News Corp Australia, 54 Pioneer Rd Yandina Qld 4561. Publishers indemnity: Sold On is published by the Northern Star Ltd. Those who make advertising placement and/or supplycopy material or editorial submissions undertake to ensure all such materials do not infringe the Trade Practices Act or other laws, regulations or statutes. Further to the above mentioned,these persons agrees to indemnify the publisher and/or its agents against any investigations, claims or judgments.

Cover image: Courtesy LJ Hooker Byron Bay

which posted a median house price increase of 33.1 per cent, and Modanville, between Lismore and Dunoon, where the median house price increased by 32 per cent.

Other strong performers included Wollongbar, where prices grew by 27.3 per cent, Broadwater, which increased by 25.3 per cent and Wardell, which posted growth of 21.2 per cent.

Also in the double digits were Richmond Hill at 19.7 per cent, Girards Hill in Lismore with 14.6 per cent growth, Casino with 12.6 per cent and Woodburn and Byron Bay at 11.6 per cent.

Not all areas have been immune from the downturn. Significant changes to the median house price have been felt in Myocum, which had a 24.5 per cent fall, Federal down 18.7 per cent, Skennars Head down 11.7 per cent and South Golden Beach down by 9.7 per cent.

Overall, however, most areas posted modest gains, including the major centres of Lismore and Ballina, which both posted median house price growth of 4.3 per cent.

With news the Sydney and Melbourne markets are starting to regain their momentum, any softness in the market looks like it is now plateauing and prices could be back on the way up as we head into the

stronger spring selling season.

Low stock does appear to be slowing things down a little, but local agents are assuring vendors they needn’t be concerned that their home won’t sell.

Buyers who have been watching and waiting are now re-entering the market and confidence is back.

With interest rates at record lows and a recent easing on lending restrictions, there’s a feeling that there is no better time to buy than now.

For those looking to buy, sell or invest on the Northern Rivers, information is key and this publication brings it all together in one easy-to-read guide.

Inside, you’ll find detailed suburb profiles, covering the entire Northern Rivers from Banora and Terranora in the north to Evans Head in the south and Tenterfield in the west.

There is up-to-date localised data on prices, investment potential, growth and demographics, along with easy to understand tips and advice on investment and getting a foot on the property ladder.

Whether you are a first or second home buyer, investor or vendor, Sold On Northern Rivers is for you.

LOVING LISMORE

Affordable homes, a thriving arts, culture and food scene, and a friendly community. It’s no wonder people are flocking to Lismore. Find out how the Lismore property market has fared this year, and which of its suburbs are most in demand, on page 25.

BEAUTIFUL BANORA

Families flock to Banora Point and the neighbouring suburb of Terranora. Turn to page 33 to find out why.

Contents P6 ..............................................What’s your property worth?

P8 ..................................................Maximising your sale price P9 .................................................................Tips for investors P10 ...................................................First home buying advice P12 ............................................................................Alstonville P15 ..................................................................................Ballina P16 ................................................................Brunswick Heads P17 ............................................................................Byron Bay P18..................................................................................Casino P21..........................................................................Evans Head P22 .......................................................................Goonellabah P23 .................................................................................Kyogle

P24 ......................................................................Lennox Head P25...............................................................................Lismore P26 .............................................................................Wategos P28 .....................................................................Mullumbimby P29................................................................................Nimbin P30.....................................................................Ocean Shores P31 ...........................................................................Tenterfield P33 ........................................................Banora and Terranora

Page 5

WHAT’S YOUR PROPERTY WORTH Council

BAlliNA

BYRON

Suburb

Property Type

Number Sold (12 months)

Median Sale Price (12 months)

Change in Median Price (past 3 months)

Change in Median Price (12 months)

Change in Median Price (3 years)

Change in Median Price (5 years)

Annual Change in Median Price (10 years)

Alstonville

H

121

$600,000

0.0%

5.0%

34.1%

42.9%

4.5%

Alstonville

U

47

$330,000

0.0%

-1.5%

17.4%

18.7%

2.0%

Ballina

H

160

$558,000

1.5%

4.3%

24.7%

46.8%

3.7%

Ballina

U

113

$492,500

5.6%

22.2%

42.8%

66.4%

5.5%

Cumbalum

H

39

$662,000

-1.1%

7.2%

10.3%

27.3%

2.8%

East Ballina

H

81

$750,000

-4.5%

4.2%

19.0%

42.2%

3.6%

East Ballina

U

60

$455,000

-5.2%

-13.5%

13.5%

28.2%

2.2%

Lennox Head

H

82

$887,500

-5.5%

0.9%

15.6%

36.9%

4.7%

Lennox Head

U

79

$750,000

0.0%

10.3%

29.3%

43.7%

5.7%

Skennars Head

H

11

$790,000

-6.8%

-11.7%

10.5%

5.0%

n.a.

Tintenbar

H

14

$1,330,000

0.0%

0.0%

66.0%

89.7%

n.a.

Wardell

H

11

$515,000

-8.0%

21.2%

39.6%

71.4%

n.a.

West Ballina

H

45

$587,500

-0.4%

-3.7%

8.7%

41.6%

2.5%

West Ballina

U

25

$462,500

0.0%

17.1%

18.6%

21.7%

4.3%

Wollongbar

H

66

$570,000

0.0%

0.0%

23.9%

40.7%

4.5%

Wollongbar

U

13

$509,000

0.0%

27.3%

44.6%

62.9%

6.7%

Bangalow

H

54

$941,250

-0.1%

-2.2%

33.3%

48.1%

5.2%

Brunswick Heads

H

30

$1,272,500

-15.2%

-2.1%

65.4%

112.1%

8.5%

Brunswick Heads

U

7

n.a.

n.a.

n.a.

n.a.

n.a.

n.a.

Byron Bay

H

96

$1,625,000

3.2%

11.7%

57.8%

124.9%

9.6%

Byron Bay

U

101

$785,000

-7.6%

0.0%

28.0%

45.4%

6.0%

Ewingsdale

H

24

$1,650,000

1.2%

33.1%

46.0%

38.0%

n.a.

Federal

H

17

$1,025,000

-7.2%

-18.7%

2.0%

28.9%

n.a.

Mullumbimby

H

74

$785,000

0.0%

6.1%

31.9%

64.4%

5.7%

Mullumbimby

U

7

n.a.

n.a.

n.a.

n.a.

n.a.

n.a.

Myocum

H

13

$1,200,000

-30.1%

-24.5%

25.7%

64.1%

n.a.

New Brighton

H

13

$1,185,000

-7.1%

6.8%

40.2%

n.a.

n.a.

Ocean Shores

H

100

$720,000

-2.1%

-0.7%

36.5%

51.6%

5.7%

Ocean Shores

U

27

$595,000

-2.0%

12.3%

35.8%

65.3%

5.5%

South Golden Beach

H

26

$790,000

-10.8%

-9.7%

53.4%

62.9%

6.5%

Suffolk Park

H

55

$1,050,000

0.0%

-17.0%

25.7%

60.9%

5.7%

Suffolk Park

U

24

$741,000

2.9%

-2.5%

23.5%

57.0%

4.9%

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Lismore

richmond VaLLey

suburb

Property Type

number sold (12 months)

median sale Price (12 months)

change in median Price (past 3 months)

change in median Price (12 months)

change in median Price (3 years)

change in median Price (5 years)

annual change in median Price (10 years)

Caniaba

H

15

$620,000

1.0%

0.2%

n.a.

n.a.

n.a.

Clunes

H

19

$630,500

-0.4%

-4.5%

35.6%

40.1%

n.a.

Dunoon

H

15

$466,250

-0.8%

8.6%

10.4%

62.5%

4.6%

East Lismore

H

118

$375,000

-1.3%

2.6%

17.2%

24.2%

2.4%

East Lismore

U

11

$247,000

7.4%

12.3%

47.6%

n.a.

n.a.

Girards Hill

H

40

$412,500

-7.2%

14.6%

13.0%

38.0%

3.6%

Goonellabah

H

329

$430,000

2.4%

2.4%

19.4%

25.7%

3.2%

Goonellabah

U

53

$315,000

4.1%

1.3%

18.9%

28.6%

3.7%

Lismore

H

78

$352,500

1.6%

4.3%

24.1%

33.0%

2.5%

Lismore

U

10

$230,000

n.a.

n.a.

n.a.

n.a.

1.2%

Lismore Heights

H

55

$397,500

-0.6%

6.0%

19.5%

34.7%

3.0%

Lismore Heights

U

18

$280,000

2.8%

9.2%

13.8%

8.5%

2.2%

Modanville

H

10

$660,000

1.9%

32.0%

n.a.

n.a.

n.a.

Nimbin

H

30

$420,000

-4.5%

0.6%

27.3%

35.5%

n.a.

North Lismore

H

35

$310,000

9.7%

5.1%

25.3%

21.6%

2.9%

Richmond Hill

H

15

$760,000

0.0%

19.7%

29.9%

63.4%

n.a.

South Gundurimba

H

10

$537,500

n.a.

n.a.

n.a.

n.a.

n.a.

South Lismore

H

54

$282,500

-2.8%

1.3%

10.8%

17.7%

2.5%

the Channon

H

11

$490,000

-12.9%

n.a.

n.a.

n.a.

n.a.

Broadwater

H

14

$460,000

2.2%

25.3%

54.6%

n.a.

n.a.

Casino

H

267

$299,500

0.8%

12.6%

33.1%

35.9%

2.6%

Casino

U

32

$268,500

12.6%

33.4%

68.3%

38.4%

4.1%

Coraki

H

34

$297,500

10.2%

4.4%

38.4%

24.5%

3.5%

Evans Head

H

50

$634,000

1.2%

1.0%

29.4%

51.0%

3.7%

Evans Head

U

30

$413,750

6.1%

10.3%

14.9%

26.3%

2.7%

North Casino

H

18

$525,000

0.0%

5.0%

17.6%

35.0%

n.a.

Woodburn

H

26

$385,000

-3.5%

11.6%

15.1%

36.5%

3.1%

Fairy Hill

H

14

$462,500

1.1%

0.5%

13.1%

26.7%

n.a.

North Casino

H

14

$525,000

1.0%

4.8%

22.1%

35.0%

n.a.

Spring Grove

H

10

$585,000

-1.7%

19.7%

4.9%

61.4%

n.a.

Woodburn

H

20

$397,500

10.4%

16.9%

46.5%

37.1%

3.2%

SOURCE: CoreLogic

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council

Page 7

Selling

Top tips to sell for the best price while cutting out stress Buyers are big on garages, granny flats and balconies, but pools head the list as the most popular item on househunters’ wishlists

By MIKAELA DAY

EVERYONE wants to achieve a premium price when selling their property.

We talked to the experts to get some tips that will help take the stress out of the process.

Property expert Making sure your property looks the best is paramount, according to Realestate.com.au chief economist Nerida Conisbee.

Ms Conisbee said decluttering and cleaning were two simple and cost effective ways that made a big difference to how buyers perceived the property.

“Be careful about renovating before you sell – you need to make sure that the renovation that you do will lead to at least the amount that you spent renovating,” she said.

“If you do decide to renovate, make sure that you keep colours neutral and look at what the most popular interior design trends are.”

Ms Conisbee advised to have the property staged to “show it off” in the best light.

“You wouldn’t go to an interview without looking your best and the same goes for your home when you sell it,” she said.

Key word searches on realestate.com.au for properties show buyers are big on garages, granny flats and balconies, but pools topped

the list as the most popular item on househunters’ wishlists.

Sellers advocate Selecting the correct agent to sell your property and knowing the value of your home are very important, GC Property Advisors’ Tony Coughran said.

Mr Coughran, who is a buyers’ and sellers’ advocate and property valuer, said when listing a property you should interview at least three agents.

“Look out for experience, strike rate, recent sales and high energy,” he said.

“Knowing the value of your home is also a big part of the puzzle to get the best traction.

“Don’t price yourself out of the market and CHOOSE WISELY: You should interview at least three agents before selecting someone to sell your property. get it right the first time.

PHOTO: COURTNEYK “Otherwise you’ll be stale and selling for less in the long run.” house before you go on the market,” Mr Malan market value.”

Mr Coughran also said to ensure your said.

He said taking the right steps to sell your property was light, bright and airy and to get “It’s got to be ready to go, or it’s a renovator home could result in five to 10 per cent added the best photography possible. house. value at sale time.

“Naturally marketing will come into play, “As a rule always tidy up your garden and Real estate principal you can’t sell a secret,” he said. make sure all your fixtures work.”

After more than 21 years in the industry, “Well maintained homes that are presented Marketing the property correctly was also business owner Larry Malan, who runs in the best light don’t last long on the market important, especially online and through multiple Ray White agencies, knows it’s the and are selling for a premium price. social media, he said. small things that make a big difference when “You can get it very right and get a fantastic “But there’s no doubt that print marketing selling your home. result, or do nothing and get well below in the local paper also works,” Mr Malan said.

“Always fix up small repairs around your

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NORTHERN RIVERS

INVESTING

Units help first-time buyers BECOMING a property investor is like parenthood. You prepare the property for market, ensuring it is in a supportive suburb with schools, shops, and transport close by.

You help it stand out from the competition and arm it with resilience to weather the ups and downs of a fluctuating market.

Then you let it out into the world, where you hope others will take good care of it, knowing you will always be needed when things break down, fall apart, or the rental relationship doesn’t turn out as long term as you’d hoped. But with the right advice upfront, the life of a NSW property investor can still be a rich one.

Property experts share their top investor tips: UNIT OR HOUSE? A unit is a good investment option if you are a first homebuyer, Belle Estate Agents managing director Jonathan Bell said.

Homeowners could potentially avoid stamp duty and get the first homeowners grant if it was a new unit.

“We wouldn’t suggest for a first homebuyer to sit and wait for five years saving to buy a house if they could enter the market earlier in an apartment,” he said.

However Mr Bell said he was a strong advocate for buying a house over a unit where appropriate.

Look for hidden costs in the unit market before opting for an investment unit over a house, Streamline Property qualified property investment adviser Melinda Jennison said.

Body corporate fees, hidden maintenance costs, rental vacancy rates for the area and competition from other rental units must all be considered.

“The other thing we would consider, even with units, is how much land content can be attributed for a single unit,” she said.

“Generally the land component appreciates and the building component depreciates … so this is something that needs to be considered if long-term capital growth is the outcome.” .

WHEN TO LIST Peak times for people looking for rental properties are in September at the start of spring and in the December/January summer period before school and work transfers, Place director of property management Cathie Crampton said. But she said winter, which is traditionally a slow time for house rentals, was a peak time for apartments.

Ray White property manager Jessica King said December could be busy despite slowing around the Christmas break.

“Talk to your local agent about what time frames are in their market and seasonal times at that time of year,” Ms King said.

“If your property is going to be available at the end of April, make sure it’s ready for the school holidays around this time, or co-ordinate with a long weekend.”

PRICE POINT Analyse what is on the market relative to your property based on functional inclusions like bathrooms, parking, location to transport and amenities, Ms Crampton said.

“In the inner city if you have off-street parking and a double garage, swimming pool, these are very popular and do drive a price up,” she said. “Security and airconditioning will definitely position a property higher than one without airconditioning.”

If an area starts dropping rental prices, particularly a regional area, Ray White property manager Jessica King’s advice is to hold firm.

“If one person drops the price, everyone starts pulling prices down,” Ms King said.

“Sometimes you need to hold firm, allow

PHOTO: RAWPIXEL

Apartments may be more affordable for first-time property buyers.

the uneducated ones to come in sharply, undercut everyone and then the market stabilises again.”

However, do consider adjusting your rental price by 5-10 per cent if the property has been on the market for 7-14 days without being rented.

WHAT RENTERS WANT Renters remain on the hunt for support with their rent, with the National Rental Affordability Scheme the most searched rental term on realestate.com.au.

In second place, renters are looking for properties with swimming pools.

Other property features sought by renters include pet-friendly properties, fully furnished and properties with dual living or granny flats.

Realestate.com.au chief economist Nerida Conisbee said she was unsurprised by the findings which indicate people are looking for ways to reduce financial pressure by sharing rental responsibilities and seeking assistance.

The BCEC Housing Affordability Report 2019 found 52 per cent of private renters faced difficulties in meeting housing costs compared with 38 per cent of homeowners.

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Page 9

PROPERTY

Plan first step on to property ladder WHEN it comes to taking that first daunting step on the property ladder, finance experts agree on a few things – have a plan, do your research and don’t rush in.

Mortgage Choice chief executive officer Susan Mitchell said it was important to ask yourself a few questions including whether you wanted to live in the property or rent it out, if you’d prefer an apartment or a house and where you want that dwelling to be located.

“Once you’ve answered these questions, find out the value of the type of property you wish to buy. From there, you will know potentially what deposit amount you will need,” she said.

“If you don’t already have one, create a budget, with a savings plan, so you can figure out how much you need to save each pay cycle in order to reach your goal within the time frame you set yourself.

“Living on a budget has never been more important for those planning to purchase a home. Lenders have been assessing home loan applicant living expenses with a heightened level of scrutiny over the last 18 months.

“If you live on a budget and have a clear understanding of your expenses, you are going to be less likely to overspend in areas where lenders could raise their eyebrows.

“Further, if you can set yourself a living expense budget for each month, and stick to it, it will go a long way to convincing a lender that you are in control of your spending and disciplined enough to maintain it.

“If you realise you will not have the capacity to save the amount you need in the time frame you set, you will need to decide whether your goal is unrealistic or whether you need to change some of your spending habits in order to save more.”

High-interest savings accounts, including ones created specifically for the purpose of

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saving a first home deposit, can help first home buyers to build a deposit, plus there is also the bank of mum and dad.

The First Home Loan Deposit Scheme, scheduled to start January 2020, will mean eligible first home buyers will be able to borrow more than 80 per cent of a property’s value and not need to pay for lenders’ mortgage insurance. The scheme will be open to first home buyers who have saved a deposit of at least 5 per cent.

Buyers may also be eligible for a first home buyer grant from your state/territory government.

NAB acting general manager for Queensland regional retail Wayne Tawse said many people opened a separate account in which to store their savings.

He also recommended putting money aside weekly to help develop a habit.

Once you’ve got a nice nest egg behind you, it is time to decide how much of a deposit you will put on a property.

Mr Tawse said that all depends on the buyer, the location and whether you decide to buy a house, a unit or a larger lifestyle block.

“A deposit of between 10-30 per cent is ideal,” he said.

“Ideally if you’ve got a 20 per cent deposit you will not need mortgage insurance, and the more you save the less you’ve got to pay in interest.

“It’s really important any customers do their research. You have to think about the location, the type of property you want, how many bedrooms you need, your long terms plans, whether you can maintain a block, if you want to be close to schools and shops, and what your lifestyle habits are.

“We find most people buy in the area they rent in because that’s where they feel comfortable. But you have to assess how you

travel to work and what your life will look like in the future and how the property fits into that.

“We get some people who come in for advice and then we don’t see them again for six months and that is great because we know they’re taking the time to plan and research.”

Ms Mitchell adds that a 10 per cent deposit as a minimum is legally required at the time of exchanging contracts, so don’t be caught short.

“Rent-vesting could be another pathway to home ownership. If you’re serious about buying a property but you can’t afford to buy where you want, you may want to consider buying where you can afford and renting where it’s convenient,” she said.

She also reminded buyers of the other costs associated with home buying, which are not a part of your deposit, such as stamp or transfer duty, state taxes imposed on all property transactions; solicitor’s fees; and building and pest inspections.

“It is important to conduct these inspections before you purchase a property. It may seem like just another expense but the reality is, it will give you peace of mind and allow you to identify structural faults or pest infestations in the property which would be much more costly over the long-term,” Ms Mitchell explained.

“Seek expert advice. Chances are that buying your first home or investment property is going to be the most significant financial decision you have made to date.

“There are many things to consider, which can be overwhelming. That’s where a mortgage broker can step in to guide you along the way. Whether you’ve just decided to buy a home and you need help determining what size deposit you need to save, or you’ve been saving for a while and think you’re ready to consider your home loan options, a

mortgage broker can help.

“Not only that, they will do all the legwork for you from helping you get all your paperwork together for your loan application, to negotiating with lenders on your behalf to ensure you’re getting a competitive deal on your loan.”

On a final note, both Mr Tawse and Ms Mitchell recommend inspecting as many properties as you can before you settle on one.

And, even if you don’t plan to buy through an auction, attend a few just in case that ends

up being the only way you can get your dream home.

Mortgage Choice’s Evolving Great Australian Dream whitepaper revealed that 89 per cent of prospective buyers believed auctions were stressful.

“Unlike a private treaty sale, you’re directly competing against other buyers who want to buy the same property as you,” Ms Mitchell said.

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suburb profile | Alstonville

Relaxed lifestyle on the plateau

Alstonville’s friendly country-town feel, proximity to the coast and excellent amenities make it a popular place to call home

PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED

SENSE OF COMMUNITY: Main St, Alstonville, has a wonderful village feel.

gary walsh

WITH its wide streets, heritage buildings and beautiful gardens, Alstonville is an attractive, quiet and friendly place to live, with great facilities and an enviable position between the coast and the rainforest.

Growth in house prices has remained solid – despite the downturn in so many other parts of the country – reflecting the town’s appeal.

The median house price has edged up to $600,000 in the past 12 months, which amounts to 5 per cent capital growth When you look at the numbers for the past five years, it’s even more impressive, with capital growth of 42.9 per cent.

So what brings buyers to Alstonville?

Location is one factor. It’s less than half an hour from the coast and the regional hub of Lismore.

It’s also a place that has a friendly country-town feel and a strong sense of community.

The heart of the village is the historic Federal Hotel, or the Fed as it’s known to the locals. With a shaded beer garden and some of the best pub food in the region, it’s a popular meeting place.

Alstonville loves sport and the town boasts ample sporting facilities, including Crawford Park, Geoff Watt Oval, Plateau Bowls and Sports Club and Alstonville Aquatic Centre, which includes a 50m heated pool, 25m heated pool and play area. The town also has two primary schools and a high school.

Not far from town is the Victoria Park Nature Reserve, one of the last surviving remnants of the Big Scrub Rainforest, a place for nature lovers to enjoy the cool and quiet of the rainforest and spot some local wildlife.

The town is known for its rich deep-red soil and is central to many farms, orchards and nurseries. Agriculture is showcased at Summerland House Farm, a working macadamia and avocado farm that is open to the public and offers tractor rides, a cafe and playground.

Gary Walsh First National Real Estate principal Gary Walsh said Alstonville and its neighbouring suburb of Wollongbar were appealing to buyers and families of all ages, and all walks of life, boasting amenities including first-class recreational and sporting facilities, library and medical services.

“Alstonville has a brilliant environment for families and individuals,” he said.

Macadamia/income-producing farms and lifestyle properties with views to the coast tend to achieve the highest prices in and around Alstonville, as well as those central to amenities.

“Alstonville central has continued to be a very strong area in demand for units and homes close to Alstonville shops and facilities,” Mr Walsh said.

Elders Alstonville director Troy MacRae said the great thing about housing in Alstonville was its diversity.

Annie Torok Cathy McNamara Jeremy Tyler Barry Burgess Gary Walsh 0400 848 544 0429 639 312 0490 338 553 0427 102 063 0412 880 744

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SPOTLIGHT MEDIAN PROPERTY PRICE HOUSE ...................

$$

$

UNIT ...................

$600,000

BUY

$330,000

$480

RENT

$355

CAPITAL GROWTH Change in median sales price in: Past 3 months ........................

0% 12 months .............................. 5% 3 years .................................. 34.1% 5 years .................................. 42.9% Annually (10 years) ................. 4.5% March

?

“From units and villas, residential homes, lifestyle and income-producing properties and commercial buildings, Alstonville offers every real estate opportunity.”

“From units and villas, residential homes, lifestyle and income-producing properties and commercial buildings, Alstonville offers every real estate opportunity,” he said.

Buyers were also diverse. Families, city dwellers, first home buyers, down-sizers, investors and interstate purchasers looking for a tree change were all attracted to Alstonville, Mr MacRae said.

“Due to our location and affordability we are sought out by a wide range of buyers looking to become a part of our wonderful community,” he said.

The rental market was strong too.

“Demand far outweighs supply and this has

been the case for well over 10 years,” Mr MacRae said.

“As a result, rental properties are achieving high prices and providing great returns for landlords.”

Seller confidence did ease this year, as Mr Walsh noted the demand was there but properties were scarce.

Mr MacRae said the slowdown was due mainly to the royal commission into banking, state and federal elections and end of the financial year.

“Listings were lacking and the market slowed a little,” he said.

“However post all of this we have seen an obvious increase in seller confidence and an increase in purchaser activity.”

AVERAGE NUMBER OF DAYS ON MARKET

62 days

March

?

$

AVERAGE HOLD PERIOD

7.4 years

GROSS RENTAL YIELD 4.2% Units..................................... 5.6% Houses..................................

DEMOGRAPHICS Population

5739

Average weekly household income

$1069 Median age

50

Elders Alstonville

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Page 13

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suburb profile | Ballina

SPOTLIGHT MEDIAN PROPERTY PRICE HOUSE ...................

Ballina broadens its appeal

$558,000

BUY

$492,500

$500

RENT

$380

CAPITAL GROWTH Change in median sales price in: Past 3 months ........................

1.5% 4.3% 3 years .................................. 24.7% 5 years .................................. 46.8% Annually (10 years) ................. 3.7%

12 months ..............................

March

?

AVERAGE NUMBER OF DAYS ON MARKET

63 days

March

?

$

AVERAGE HOLD PERIOD

7.8 years

GROSS RENTAL YIELD Houses..................................

Units.....................................

4.7% 4%

DEMOGRAPHICS Population

8655

Average weekly household income

great unit in Ballina for under $300,000 so for first home buyers it offers a great opportunity to buy in a beachside location.”

Gai, who lives and works in Ballina, says she enjoys the combination of natural beauty and convenient amenities.

“It’s so easy to get around Ballina, and of course there are the beautiful beaches, river and walks.

“It’s no surprise that a lot of younger buyers

“I was born in Lismore Base Hospital, I know the Northern Rivers area well and have a lifetime of passion for real estate”

are catching on to the appeal of Ballina.”

In the past year, the median house price for Ballina was $558,000 and the average rent was $500 for a house and $380 for a unit.

People moving into Ballina include young families buying into the new estates, as well as a large number of young professional couples from Sydney and Melbourne and elderly singles and couples moving into over-55’s parks and villages.

$819

Median age

55

My boutique real estate agency offers a full service to all clients – clients who are looking to invest, buy, sell or rent property, we also handle permanent and holiday rentals.

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FOR many young families and singles, Ballina is presenting a host of irresistible opportunities to break into the property market.

Byron Ballina Property Specialists licensee/principal Gai Mason says while Ballina was once known as a haven for seniors, the appeal of the waterfront location has broadened over recent years.

“Over the past 12 months we have seen a lot of interest from young families and singles, and first time home buyers,” Gai says. “Ballina is now a popular choice for a variety of age groups.”

Located south of Lennox Head, and famous for its Big Prawn, Ballina is blessed with gorgeous beaches for swimming and surfing while the Richmond River is popular for fishing and boating.

With 32km of white, sandy beaches and a mild climate, Ballina boasts a jet airport with daily flights direct to Sydney and Melbourne, while the Gold Coast is only a 75-minute drive north.

This accessibility is part of the appeal of Ballina, Gai says.

“Ballina really does have a lot to offer.

“It is so close to Lismore and Gold Coast, so commuting is possible, and obviously healthcare and hospitals are easily accessible as well.

“There are also still plenty of great buys to be had in Ballina. It is possible to still get a

$$

$

UNIT ...................

12 Martin Street, Ballina Gai Mason LREA Licensee/Principal

0433 129 339

gai@byronballinaproperty.com.au byronballinaproperty.com.au Page 15

suburb profile | Bangalow

SPOTLIGHT MEDIAN PROPERTY PRICE HOUSE ...................

$$

$

UNIT ...................

$941,250

BUY

n/a

$710

RENT

n/a

CAPITAL GROWTH Change in median sales price in: Past 3 months ........................... -0.1%

12 months ................................ -2.2%

3 years .....................................33.3% 5 years ..................................... 48.1% Annually (10 years) ................... 5.2% March

?

AVERAGE NUMBER OF DAYS ON MARKET (HOUSES)

65 days March

?

$

Old or new, Bangalow proves popular ONE of the stars of the Northern River’s real estate scene, Bangalow has become an almost foolproof property purchase.

Tree changers looking for a relaxed, country feeling with all the style of the city are flocking to Bangalow, where heritage-style homes sit happily with new builds.

Set in the magnificent lush hinterland, yet only 15 minutes to pristine beaches, Bangalow is a bustling village.

The main street features heritage-listed buildings, quirky cafes and restaurants, a variety of fantastic shops and a yearly events calendar attracting people from far and wide.

On Saturday mornings, crowds of locals and visitors wander the farmers’ markets for local and organic produce and, on the fourth Sunday of the month, thousands pour into

Page 16

town for the colourful village market.

Bangalow is also home to the popular annual Sample Food Festival, where the area’s best chefs offer tasting plates to a hungry crowd; the annual Bangalow Music Festival attracts acclaimed chamber musicians and soloists from around the world, the Bangalow Show highlights rural attractions and there’s even a Barbecue and Bluegrass Festival.

Bangalow is also famous for its annual Billycart Derby where a variety of billycarts race down the main street.

Paul King from Elders Bangalow says the town really sells itself.

“Bangalow is a wonderful town, and that shows in the fact that more people want to stay here than want to leave.

“It has a lovely community feel, and it is

especially great for families.

“Children still walk to school here, and there is a very active community.

“We have several community groups such as Friends of the Koala or the Rainforest Regeneration groups. These types of groups are really dedicated to keeping the Bangalow community as strong as it is.”

Paul says while the quintessential Bangalow home is still the traditional Queenslander, there are a lot of new builds that are proving almost as popular. ”Whether it’s a Queenslander, or a new home or a block of land, the market here in Bangalow continues to be really strong and robust and is proving to be very good to a lot of people.”

AVERAGE HOLD PERIOD

6.9 years

GROSS RENTAL YIELD 3.9% Units..................................... n/a

Houses..................................

DEMOGRAPHICS Population

2021

Average weekly household income

$1401 Median age

43

suburb profile | Brunswick Heads

SPOTLIGHT MEDIAN PROPERTY PRICE HOUSE ...................

$

$$

UNIT ...................

$1.2725m

BUY

n/a

$560

RENT

$450

CAPITAL GROWTH Change in median sales price in: Past 3 months ........................ -15.2% 12 months ..............................

-2.1%

3 years .................................. 65.4% 5 years ..................................

Annually (10 years) .................

March

?

112.1% 8.5%

AVERAGE NUMBER OF DAYS ON MARKET (HOUSES)

69 days March

?

$

Village charm with a cafe culture TWENTY years ago, the TV series Seachange put the sleepy Victorian coastal town of Barwon Heads on the map. When the show first aired, the median house price was $154,000. It has since sky-rocketed by more than 650 per cent – outperforming growth in Melbourne – to now be about $900,000.

It remains to be seen what effect filming the new series of Seachange in Brunswick Heads will have on the town’s property prices but it’s fair to say Brunswick Heads was on buyers’ radars well before the TV show came along.

In the past five years, the town has seen capital growth of 112 per cent, with its median house price sitting at $1,272,500, making it one of the Northern Rivers’ most expensive places to buy.

Its proximity to Byron Bay has most likely had an influence on prices but so too has the limited amount of housing and the virtual absence of any new development, apart from a recent small release of blocks at Bayside on the southern end of the town.

There’s plenty of reasons people are drawn to Brunswick Heads.

It retains its old fishing village charm but now has a hip and sophisticated edge.

Fleet – considered one of the best restaurants in the country – is there, along with top-quality cafes serving gourmet food and coffee. The renovated Bruns Bakery packs

in the crowds and at the new Trawlers Bar on The Terrace you can sip on a cocktail and enjoy the view from one the town’s best positions overlooking the river.

Up on Tweed St there’s Ethel, the gourmet food store owned by Fleet; coffee counter Jones and Co and Old Maid, a gourmet burger store selling vegan burgers and acai bowls. The modern Mexican, La Casita, also opened its

“Brunswick Heads’ natural beauty is hard to beat” doors on Fawcett St this year.

The Brunswick Picture House on Fingal St has become a hub for cinema, cabaret and comedy and circus, and the landmark Bruns Pub remains a favourite with visitors and locals alike.

Brunswick Head’s natural beauty is hard to beat. Bordered by the stunning Brunswick River and the Pacific Ocean it’s a hotspot for fishing, kayaking, swimming and surfing.

There are colourful monthly community markets, low key festivals such as the annual celebration of second hand goods, Old n Gold; the Mullum to Bruns Paddle; and the annual Christmas carnival in Banner Park.

Elders Brunswick Heads Principal Dave Bosselmann says Brunswick is home to an

older demographic, but more families are moving in.

Those seeking alternative medicine treatments, health foods and wellness are drawn to the town, as are those looking for a quieter alternative to Byron Bay. “There’s a lot of people from Byron Bay who are coming to buy or rent in Brunswick Heads because they’re fed up with the paid parking and traffic congestion.”

The rental market is always strong: “We put things on and they’re snapped up within a week,” Mr Bosselmann said.

Older houses in town that buyers can add their own special touches to are the most sought-after, and although the town doesn’t have much in the way of units, those that do come on the market are snapped up quickly by Brisbane buyers as weekenders, said Mr Bosselmann.

Like many other areas, Brunswick’s property market slowed during the first half of the year and buyers were holding off,, Mr Bosselmann said, With the state and federal elections over and the easing on lending restrictions now in place, however, things are picking up.

“In the last five or six weeks in particular it’s really started to move again, and when people start to see it move the urgency comes back.

“It’s been a buyers market for the last 18 months but I think now we’re starting to swing around slightly now to the vendors.”

AVERAGE HOLD PERIOD

9.3 years

GROSS RENTAL YIELD 2.3% Units..................................... n/a

Houses..................................

DEMOGRAPHICS Population

1737

Average weekly household income

$844

Median age

50

Elders Real Estate Brunswick Valley

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Page 17

suburb profile | Byron Bay

Star power boosts Byron Bay One of the most talked-about towns in Australia, Byron Bay also fetches some of Australia’s highest property prices

PHOTO: MARC STAPELBERG

NATURAL BEAUTY: Byron Bay Lighthouse as viewed from Wategos Beach.

“The Difference is Distinctive” Janis Perkins Director/Licensee

HHH

Locals Supporting Locals BYRON BAY Page 18

HHH

Email: Mobile: Ph: Byron Bay Offfice: Burringbar Office:

BURRINBAR

Janis@reod.com.au 0438 841 122 (02) 6680 8588 9/15 Fletcher St BYRON BAY 2481 Suite 3/29 The Broadway BURRINGBAR 2483 (02) 6677 1955

SPOTLIGHT MEDIAN PROPERTY PRICE HOUSE ...................

WHEN it comes to real estate on the Northern Rivers, Byron Bay is known as the high achiever.

Popularity has been growing steadily for more than a decade and there are some extraordinary prices being seen in the high end of the market.

Famous faces who have purchased in the area have helped drive Byron’s reputation for real estate excellence, most recently Chris Hemsworth and wife Elsa Pataky.

Early this year, Realestate.com.au chief economist Nerida Conisbee said there was no denying the impact the Thor actor and his family had on the region.

“The area is attracting not just national attention but also international attention as well because there’s a lot of celebrity interest, particularly from the Hemsworths,” she said.

“There’s always been a lot of celebrities who have loved living up in that area but (the Hemsworths) are very high-profile and they are giving the area a very high profile as well.”

The beach-side town has a median house price of $1,625,000, higher than most of Sydney, and the many award-winning new builds and renovations that have happened in recent years have cemented the town’s position as one of the hottest real estate markets in the country.

Byron Bay is certainly deserving of the hype. From its pristine white sand beaches to its famous surf breaks and the stunning hinterland, Byron Bay is an iconic coastal town.

It’s the jewel in the crown of the North Coast and with its world-renowned surf and

artisan culture as well as its alternative lifestyle, Byron is a place to see and be seen.

The local cafe and restaurant scene has grown into one of the strongest and most influential in Australia, with celebrated chefs and restaurants opening establishments in Byron Bay. Byron Bay is also home to some of the world’s finest and most renowned festivals and cultural events, as well as two eco-designed luxury resorts – the Byron at Byron and Elements of Byron.

The solar train is a new edition to the town and future developments include the redesign of the foreshore and parkland, while currently there are the town centre bypass, Railway Park, roads, water and sewer upgrades.

The demographic of buyers includes retirees looking to invest now and move later, plus families and professionals.

“Byron Bay is one of the most popular seachange locations internationally thanks to its unspoiled beaches, hinterland, vibrant cafes, boutiques shops, relaxed lifestyle and independent way of life,” Byron Bay real estate agent Janis Perkins, of Real Estate of Distinction, said.

“It’s famous for its alternative lifestyle and attracts people from all socio-economic levels.

The beaches, hinterland, surfing, yoga, shopping, partying, dining, favourable climate and diving are reasons why the town has grown and prospered in the last 20 years.”

Ms Perkins specialises in high-end properties, of which Byron has many. From sprawling country estates with private helicopter pads to Byron’s most exclusive

$$

$

address, Wategos Beach, where properties go for upwards of $18 million.

Ms Perkins said Wategos was an exceptional location, offering peace, privacy, an incredible beach, stunning views and a national park backdrop.

Chris Hanley, of First National Byron Bay, which has been a leader in the local real estate market for more than three decades, said the villages surrounding Byron Bay – Bangalow, Brunswick Heads, Ocean Shores and Mullumbimby – had a strong 12 months with a high number of sales.

“There has been some price adjustment in these areas but the markets have stayed healthy,” Mr Hanley said.

“Byron Bay itself is a slightly different story.

While prices have remained strong, the number of sales in Byron Bay have dropped.

There are quite a few less sales than this time last year, although we have just had a strong sales month in August.”

Mr Hanley said part of the reason for this was there were many buyers wanting to move to the region who couldn’t afford Byron, so they were looking to the surrounding villages.

“The whole region is wonderful, all those towns are beautiful so it’s all good news,” he said.

UNIT ...................

$1.625m

BUY

$785,000

$850

RENT

$650

CAPITAL GROWTH Change in median sales price in: Past 3 months ........................

3.2% 12 months .............................. 11.7% 3 years .................................. 57.8% 5 years .................................. 124.9% Annually (10 years) ................. 9.6% March

?

AVERAGE NUMBER OF DAYS ON MARKET

108 days

March

?

$

AVERAGE HOLD PERIOD

8.6 years

GROSS RENTAL YIELD 2.7% Units..................................... 4.3% Houses..................................

DEMOGRAPHICS Population

5521

Average weekly household income

$1197

Median age

42

Byron Bay

www.byronbayfn.com.au 6685 8466

Chris Hanley 0419 662 338

James Young 0419 856 840

Su Reynolds 0428 888 660

Paul Banister 0438 856 552

Helen Huntly-Barratt 0412 332 232

Tara Torkkola 0423 519 698

Paul Prior 0418 324 297

Luke Elwin 0421 375 635

Helene Adams 0412 139 807

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suburb profile | Casino

SPOTLIGHT MEDIAN PROPERTY PRICE HOUSE ...................

$

$$

UNIT ...................

$299,500

BUY

$268,500

$330

RENT

$245

CAPITAL GROWTH Change in median sales price in: Past 3 months ........................

0.8% 12 months .............................. 12.6% 3 years .................................. 33.1% 5 years .................................. 35.9% Annually (10 years) ................. 2.6% March

?

AVERAGE NUMBER OF DAYS ON MARKET (HOUSES)

86 days March

?

AVERAGE HOLD PERIOD

8.2 years

$

GROSS RENTAL YIELD 5.7% Units..................................... 4.7%

Houses..................................

DEMOGRAPHICS Population

Casino - small town with lots to offer CASINO offers the best of both worlds for many buyers – close enough to all the major centres to be convenient, while being far enough away to offer tranquillity and seclusion away from the busy towns.

Location, wonderful community spirit and affordability add to its appeal. It’s far enough west to escape the busy lifestyles of the coast, but still close enough to the beautiful beaches of Evans Head and Ballina.

Casino offers its residents town living as well as relaxed country living just a few minutes from the CBD. For its relatively small size, Casino packs a pretty impressive punch. It hosts the popular

Beef Week, Primex and NCPT Truck Show.

These three events draw a large number of people to the town.

Casino is a well-established town, with a number of new land subdivisions in the pipeline.

It’s home to the Northern Co-Operative Meat Company and plans are in place for the establishment of a cannabis plant.

Homes are still very affordable. The median house price in Casino is $299,500 with a +12.6 per cent suburb growth.

The town is home to older couples, families and singles.

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10,914

Average weekly household income

$875

Median age

42

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suburb profile | Evans Head

SPOTLIGHT MEDIAN PROPERTY PRICE HOUSE ...................

$$

$

UNIT ...................

$634,000

BUY

$413,750

$450

RENT

$360

CAPITAL GROWTH Change in median sales price in: Past 3 months ........................

1.2% 12 months .............................. 1% 3 years .................................. 29.4% 5 years .................................. 51% Annually (10 years) ................. 3.7% March

?

AVERAGE NUMBER OF DAYS ON MARKET (HOUSES)

n/a March

?

$

Be patient if you want to buy in Evans GETTING into the Evans Head property market is no easy feat, with opportunities to buy into the low-key coastal hideaway few and far between.

So the advice from Evans expert David Mason, of Evans Head First National is to be patient.

“I always joke that no-one wants to leave Evans Head, but it is a reality,” David says.

“There simply aren’t a whole lot of people looking to sell.

“And at the same time, Evans is becoming more popular and attractive to buyers.

“People looking to buy in Evans Head need to be patient. Something that suits their needs will come up, it might just take a while.”

Traditionally buyers have come from Casino, Lismore, Tenterfield and Kyogle, with a view to buying retirement or holiday

homes, but in the past couple of years there has been increasing interest from buyers in areas such as Brunswick Heads, Ocean Shores, Byron and Lennox Head who are starting to look further afield for their coastal dream home.

Premium buyers are also showing interest in Evans Head with demand for high-end property increasing in the past five years.

It’s not hard to see why people want to buy in Evans Head.

The town has kilometres of unspoilt and uncrowded beaches, a relaxed coastal village atmosphere and breathtaking views of the coastline from the headland and Razorback Lookout on the southern side of the river.

There is a K-12 school, a good selection of restaurants and cafes, and a fitness and aquatic centre.

There’s good fishing to be had and some

excellent surfing beaches.

The lack of housing stock might make it tough to get in, but it’s part of what makes Evans Head so special. Its small-village charm is preserved by the national park that surrounds it – Broadwater National Park to the north and Bundjalung National Park to the south – which naturally limit growth.

“It’s a beautiful, quiet, friendly community,” David says. “It’s a great place to raise kids.”

Sale prices have increased over the past 12 months, and the lack of stock also means there aren’t as many Evans Head locals upgrading or downgrading.

“People are simply staying put where they are,” David says.

While the honeymoon period of highway workers renting Evans Head properties has largely passed, there is still a fairly strong rental market, both long-term and holiday.

Where places like Byron Bay are feeling some negative impacts of the short-term or holiday rental market, Evans Head has no such problem. “It’s not taking over the town, and is helping ensure these properties are good investments,” David says.

David says the lack of stock will change.

“We’ve been here 16 years, we’ve seen these markets move, and they will move again. Potential buyers just need to be patient.”

AVERAGE HOLD PERIOD

10.3 years

GROSS RENTAL YIELD 3.7% Units..................................... 4.5%

Houses..................................

DEMOGRAPHICS Population

2847

Average weekly household income

$900 Median age

51

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suburb profile | Goonellabah

SPOTLIGHT MEDIAN PROPERTY PRICE HOUSE ...................

$$

$

UNIT ...................

$430,000

BUY

$315,000

$380

RENT

$300

CAPITAL GROWTH Change in median sales price in: Past 3 months ........................... 2.4%

12 months ................................ 2.4%

3 years ..................................... 19.4%

5 years ..................................... 25.7% Annually (10 years) ................... 3.2% March

?

AVERAGE NUMBER OF DAYS ON MARKET (HOUSES)

52 days ?

$

Goonellabah proves attractive option GOONELLABAH’S elevated position, proximity to Lismore and the coast, good facilities, and median house price of $430,000, makes it an attractive option.

Amenities on offer include schools, shopping centres and the Goonellabah Sports and Aquatic centre, which has a gym, pool and waterslide. There is also a strong sporting culture, with local teams including rugby league, soccer, cricket and hockey.

Goonellabah has a good cross section of housing from older established homes to luxurious brand new builds and land in the subdivisions.

The suburb’s elevation means it is well away from the Lismore flood plain, many homes have views, and it catches the cool breezes in summer.

Newer modern homes on the northern ridge with views tend to fetch the best prices.

53 Karissa Drive, an elevated five bedroom brick and terracotta tile home on the northern ridge with views and a northeast aspect sold for $640,000 in October last year. 3 Heather Avenue, a four bedroom, two bathroom home also on the northern ridge recently sold for $645,000.

There are also plenty of more affordable choices too for those starting out or with a tighter budget. Three bedroom homes can be found for under $350,000 and occasionally in $200-$300,000 range.

For those looking to build, Goonellabah is an excellent option. There is much to choose from and a block of land can be secured for less than $200,000. Land sale estates include Points North on the northern ridge, Holland Park Estate, Sanctuary Hills, Waterford Park, Mount Pleasant Estate, Valley View and Pinnacle.

Price growth in Goonellabah has been on a steady upward trajectory. The median house price grew by 2.4 per cent in the past 12 months and 25.7 per cent in the past five years.

Houses continue to turn over relatively quickly, with an average of 52 days on the market. Goonellabah is attractive to investors and has a solid 4.6 per cent rental yield.

AVERAGE HOLD PERIOD

8.7 years

GROSS RENTAL YIELD 4.6% Units..................................... 5%

Houses..................................

DEMOGRAPHICS Population

12,900

Average weekly household income

$1096 Median age

41

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suburb profile | Kyogle

SPOTLIGHT MEDIAN PROPERTY PRICE HOUSE ...................

$$

$

UNIT ...................

$280,000

BUY

n/a

$300

RENT

n/a

CAPITAL GROWTH Change in median sales price in: Past 3 months ........................... 0.7% 12 months ................................

0%

3 years ..................................... 8.3%

5 years ..................................... 19.1% Annually (10 years) ...................

March

?

1.4%

AVERAGE NUMBER OF DAYS ON MARKET (HOUSES)

110 days March

?

$

buyers to families to retirees,” Robert said.

“Many of them come from Southeast Queensland.

“Kyogle has so much to attract buyers. It is a great location, just 30 minutes to Lismore, and only an hour or so to a host of beaches such as Kingscliff, Evans Head, Lennox Head.

“We also have some really wonderful homes – Queenslanders, Californian bungalows, art deco homes, many still under $400,000 so they are incredibly affordable,” Robert said.

“We have all the amenities as well.”

Robert said the country lifestyle was very popular.

“We are seeing a lot more people visiting Kyogle on weekends,” he said.

“The community is also a big draw card. We

9.1 years

GROSS RENTAL YIELD 5.6% Units..................................... n/a

Houses..................................

DEMOGRAPHICS

Quaint little village is hot property OVER recent years, Kyogle has become one of the hinterland hot spots in Northern NSW. Nestled at the base of Fairy Mountain and surrounded by picturesque national parks such as Border Ranges, Richmond Range and Toonumbar it is in the thick of the hinterland belt known as the “golden mile”.

While the coastal areas have always been popular, there is an emerging trend of buyers looking to escape these busy spots, with a desire for more space, serenity and a “village” feel. It is enticing for those wanting the quintessential tree change yet still be only about an hour-and-a-half drive to popular beaches at Byron or Ballina.

The village of Kyogle is charming, beautiful and has a unique art deco feel, featuring several major buildings built in the1930s (replacing original timber structures that were destroyed by fire). Kyogle offers a very affordable option for those looking to move to the region.

Robert Horder from PRD Nationwide Kyogle says the market has been good – especially over the past few months – and he expects that to continue.

In fact, Robert and other astute real estate observers have flagged Kyogle as a place with the potential to become another extremely popular Northern Rivers village, similar to hot spots such as Bangalow and Clunes.

“We have a mix of buyers, from first home

AVERAGE HOLD PERIOD

Population

2197

Average weekly household income

have a really vibrant cafe culture, a lot of artists and artisans, and above all a very welcoming community.

“It’s a friendly town also, and that is becoming more and more important to buyers.

You walk down the main street of Kyogle and people will say hello and be friendly. There is a lot of appeal in that.

“Kyogle really is one of the best places to call home on the Northern Rivers.”

$814

Median age

48

Looking to Buy, Sell or Rent ?

PRDnationwide Northern Rivers is your home of local property knowledge. Due to a high volume of recent rural and residential sales in the area, we are currently seeking new listings.

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Rob Horder

Graham Cruickshank

81 Summerland Way, Kyogle 2474 02 6632 3380 / 0439 135 125 roberthorder@prd.com.au www.PRD.com.au/NorthernRivers Page 23

suburb profile | Lennox Head

SPOTLIGHT MEDIAN PROPERTY PRICE HOUSE ...................

$$

$

UNIT ...................

$887,500

BUY

$750,000

$640

RENT

$550

CAPITAL GROWTH Change in median sales price in: Past 3 months ........................ -5.5%

0.9% 15.6% 5 years .................................. 36.9% Annually (10 years) ................. 4.7% 12 months ..............................

3 years ..................................

March

?

AVERAGE NUMBER OF DAYS ON MARKET (HOUSES)

46 days March

?

$

Lennox Head secures hot spot status FOR several years, Lennox Head has been emerging as one of the hottest areas for real estate on the east coast, and its position as a real estate hot spot has been secured over recent years (with a 36.9% capital growth rate over the past five years).

A vibrant coastal town that boasts one of the best surf breaks in Australia, it attracts young families, professionals and retirees looking for the quintessential beach lifestyle.

While a popular place to live – and visit – the village still retains its small-town vibe and its wonderful sense of community. Renowned for its stunning long white-sand beaches and the Lake Ainsworth tea tree lake, Lennox Head also boasts picturesque nature and coastal walks, cycleways, sporting clubs, and a wonderful variety of shops, cafes, restaurants and galleries.

The vibrant seaside town is a popular drawcard for families, singles and couples seeking a sea change. Despite its still relatively small size, Lennox Head offers plenty of child care and education options, including an early learning centre, community preschool, public school and Catholic primary and secondary schools within a few minutes’ drive of the town centre.

The surf club is strong and active and is a great focal point for families.

Michael King of Elders Lennox Head says that over the past 12 months the market has

Page 24

AVERAGE HOLD PERIOD

9.6 years

GROSS RENTAL YIELD 3.7% Units..................................... n/a

Houses..................................

DEMOGRAPHICS Population

6407

Average weekly household income

$1577

Median age

43

remained strong and he doesn’t see that changing anytime soon.

“Like a lot of areas in the Northern Rivers, and across Australia, we don’t have a lot of stock,” Michael says. “People are happy here, and let’s face it, when you get to heaven you don’t want to go anywhere else. It really is a lovely place to live.”

Michael says the type of buyers interested in Lennox is extremely broad, covering almost every demographic.

“There is very much a mix of first homebuyers, young families and older retirees,” Michael says. And much of the movement in the market is from local buyers.

“We’ve just done a release of land at Epiq,

and probably 300 lots have been sold in three years. Eighty per cent of our buyers of Epiq had a 2478 postcode, so a lot of local buyers. A number of those people have moved here from other places in recent years, but have been renting for a while to get a feel for the place, and have ultimately decided on Lennox Head as their place to live.”

Michael says the rental market is really strong as well, meaning Lennox is a good investment for buyers.

“There is more land which will become available in the next 12 months and we expect that to sell quickly.

“The truth is, we don’t have to sell Lennox, we just have to sell the houses.”

suburb profile | Lismore

SPOTLIGHT MEDIAN PROPERTY PRICE HOUSE ...................

$$

$

UNIT ...................

$352,500

BUY

$230,000

$360

RENT

$250

CAPITAL GROWTH Change in median sales price in: Past 3 months ...........................

1.6% 12 months ................................ 4.3% 3 years ..................................... 24.1% 5 years ..................................... 33% Annually (10 years) ................... 2.5% March

?

AVERAGE NUMBER OF DAYS ON MARKET (HOUSES)

70 days March

?

$

SOLD feature - East Lismore viewed from Cynthia Wilson

PHOTOS:KATE O’NEILL/MARC STAPELBERG

Mr Horder says family homes are always in demand in Lismore.

“The classic $350,000 to $450,000 home will always be popular as it gives the first-home buyers a starting point,” he said.

Duplex units are also sought-after: “The

9.8 years

GROSS RENTAL YIELD 5.3% Units..................................... 5.7%

Houses..................................

DEMOGRAPHICS

Lismore a town that’s flourishing THERE’S a real buzz around Lismore at the moment.

More people are moving into town, the food and cafe scene is thriving, cool bars and music venues are popping up and the art and culture scene is flourishing.

It’s not hard to see why people are attracted to living in Lismore.

With a median house price sitting at a reasonable $352,500, Lismore offers affordable living, with all the culture and convenience of a major regional centre, and the lifestyle advantages of a country town that’s surrounded by an extraordinarily beautiful natural environment.

All the amenities are on offer in Lismore. It has a newly expanded hospital, major supermarkets and farmers markets, Southern Cross University, and a retail centre with everything from chic boutique fashion and designer homewares to organic produce and rare books.

“Lismore has so much to offer, being 20 minutes to the coast and an hour to the Gold Coast,” PRDNationwide’s Robert Horder said.

“It has the university, great schools and affordability in comparison to its coastal neighbours.”

The town also has a strong sense of community, as evidenced by the bounce back the town has seen since the devastating floods in 2017.

AVERAGE HOLD PERIOD

Population

3579

Average weekly household income

professional couples, downsizers and mature singles are always on the lookout for these.”

Besides local buyers, Mr Horder said Lismore’s location attracts a lot of sea changers from Melbourne and Sydney.

“With the rise in the number of people working from home there are a lot of people moving to the area for the lifestyle and commuting to the cities weekly,” he said.

The rental market is also strong, making it a good pick for investors.

Like many other parts of the Northern Rivers, Lismore has defied the downturn that’s been felt in other parts of the country.

Things may have slowed a little, but it has still managed to record a growth in median house price of 4.3 per cent over the past 12 months and 33 per cent over the past five years.

Its suburbs have fared well too, with East Lismore recording 2.6 per cent capital growth and Lismore Heights 6 per cent. The leader of the pack, however, is the highly desirable Girards Hill, which recorded an increase in its median house price of 14.6 per cent in the past 12 months, taking it to $412,500 Mr Horder said the outlook for Lismore’s property market over the next 12 months was positive.

“The market is beginning to pick up again and should thrive in the coming months,” he said.

$838

Median age

40

Looking to Buy, Sell or Rent ?

PRDnationwide Northern Rivers is your home of local property knowledge. Due to a high volume of recent rural and residential sales in the area, we are currently seeking new listings.

Contact us today!

Rob Horder

Lyn Youngberry

Graham Cruickshank

72 Molesworth Street, Lismore 2480 02 6624 7700 / 0439 135 125 roberthorder@prd.com.au www.PRD.com.au/NorthernRivers Page 25

suburb profile | Wategos

Byron’s most exclusive address

Snaring a property isn’t easy, but the privileged few who buy a home at Wategos enjoy peace, privacy and stunning natural surrounds THE small, exclusive enclave of Wategos Beach, Byron Bay, is the creme de la creme of the Northern Rivers property market, where houses go for upwards of $18 million.

Residents here enjoy privacy, stunning views, an ideal north aspect and one of Australia’s best beaches.

“Wategos is a special place in Byron Bay,” LJ Hooker Byron Bay director Liam Annesley said.

“Tucked under our iconic lighthouse, Wategos draws visitors all year around with walking tracks to the lighthouse and sheltered areas for swimming and surfing,” he said.

“Every day you can see pods of bottlenose dolphins out the front and thanks to its temperate subtropical climate it offers year-round enjoyment.”

Wategos’ natural beauty, seclusion and its luxury guesthouse, Rae’s on Wategos, makes it a magnet for celebrity holidaymakers. Guests have included Elle Macpherson, Russell Crowe, Keith Richards and Tom Cruise.

Given its current status, it’s hard to believe that Wategos – named after the family that once grew commercial bananas and fruit and vegetables there – was at one time considered less than desirable.

The land was originally leased by Murray (Mick) Watego, but he passed away in 1953 and the land lease ended in 1959.

“In 1961 council put up approximately 86 lots for auction with bidding upwards of $300,” said Mr Annesley.

“At at the time many blocks did not sell as people felt it was too far from town.

In 1970, another auction was held. Lots sold from $1250 in Brownell Drive to $5150 on Marine Parade — a stark contrast to this year’s record breaking sale of a Marine Parade home opposite Raes, which changed hands for $18,850,000.

In 1970, lots sold from $1250 in Brownell Drive to $5150 on Marine Parade — a stark contrast to this year’s record breaking sale of a Marine Parade home opposite Raes, which changed hands for $18,850,000

PHOTO: LJ HOOKER BYRON BAY

Wategos Beach Byron Bay.

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Homes at Wategos are typically either original beach shacks built decades ago or architect-designed showpieces.

Snaring a home at Wategos isn’t easy. There are only 86 lots and they’re rarely sold.

Wategos also tends to hold its value due to the high net worth of its land owners along with owners that have lived there for 30 years.

The most expensive Wategos houses are built along the beach on Marine Parade, including Mr Annesley’s current listing at 41 Marine Parade. Affectionately known as

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Whalewatchers, it’s a luxurious four bedroom five bathroom home with a front row position just metres from the sand, which has a price guide of $14m-$15m.

A bit further back from the beach, homes on Brownell Drive and Palm Valley Drive are slightly less pricey, but still have stunning views, including Mr Annesley’s listing at 8 Palm Valley Drive, a luxurious three bedroom home with heated infinity-edge pool which is for sale by expressions of interest.

Residents enjoy privacy, stunning views, an ideal north aspect and one of Australia’s best beaches.

CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE: Raes at Wategos, Wategos Beach, 41 Marine Parade, 8 Palm Valley Drive and 53 Brownell Drive.

PHOTOS: CONTRIBUTED

“ W AT E G O S F O R S A L E ”

Liam Annesley 0417 780 795

8 Palm Valley Drive, Byron Bay

53 Brownell Drive, Byron Bay

41 Marine Parade, Byron Bay

BYRON BAY Page 27

suburb profile | Mullumbimby

SPOTLIGHT MEDIAN PROPERTY PRICE HOUSE ...................

$

$$

UNIT ...................

$785,000

BUY

n/a

$590

RENT

$445

CAPITAL GROWTH Change in median sales price in: Past 3 months ........................

0% 12 months .............................. 6.1% 3 years .................................. 31.9% 5 years .................................. 64.4% Annually (10 years) ................. 5.7% March

?

AVERAGE NUMBER OF DAYS ON MARKET (HOUSES)

70 days March

?

$

AVERAGE HOLD PERIOD

7.4 years

GROSS RENTAL YIELD 3.9% Units..................................... n/a

Houses..................................

DEMOGRAPHICS Population PHOTO: KATE O'NEILL

Mt Chincogan on the road to Mullumbimby.

Mullumbimby has a magic all its own ONE of the country’s most eclectic and colourful communities, Mullumbimby is home to an interesting mix of alternative lifestylers, artists, activists, eccentrics, third or fourth generation farming families and cashed-up city tree changers.

Hippies flocked to the area in the 1970s, at a time when dairy and banana farmers were walking away and land was cheap. Those days are long gone. In the past five years, the town has seen capital growth of 64.4 per cent and hit a median house price of $785,000.

The town is booming and its main street offers a fantastic mix of shopping, including boutique and second hand clothing, handcrafted and vintage goods, bookshops, a florist, home wares, and the mecca for the conscious consumer, Santos Organics.

Cafe culture is alive and thriving. Some of the best cafes and restaurants in the region are in Mullumbimby. Located at the end of an alley off the main street is the Rock n Roll Cafe, serving tasty modern Thai. On Stuart St are the excellent Izakaya Yu, Scratch Patisserie and vegan chocolate lounge Puremelt.

Woodfired pizza restaurant Milk and Honey on Station St is a local institution, and

Lismore’s popular cafe Flock has set up shop and is doing a roaring trade in what was once the Poinciana Cafe. On Friday mornings, shoppers flock to the colourful Mullumbimby Farmers Market for fresh local produce, live music and coffee and breakfast with friends.

Mullumbimby has a thriving arts and cultural scene and every November hosts the annual Mullum Music Festival, which attracts some of the best musicians from across the

country and the world.

Original character homes are in demand here and fetch the best prices. 18 Tincogan St, a classic four-bedroom Queenslander, sold for $934,500 in December last year, while 6 Train St, a four-bedroom restored timber home close to the town centre, changed hands for $900,000. For those looking to build, Tallowood Estate offers one of the most affordable entry points.

3596

Average weekly household income

$998

Median age

46

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suburb profile | Nimbin

SPOTLIGHT MEDIAN PROPERTY PRICE HOUSE ...................

$$

$

UNIT ...................

$420,000

BUY

n/a

$360

RENT

n/a

CAPITAL GROWTH Change in median sales price in: Past 3 months ........................... -4.5%

12 months ................................ 0.6%

3 years ..................................... 27.3%

5 years .....................................35.5%

Annually (10 years) ...................

March

?

n/a

AVERAGE NUMBER OF DAYS ON MARKET (HOUSES)

105 days March

?

$

Sustainable living the norm in Nimbin THE philosophy that is famously Nimbin – a culture that has long embraced sustainable living and diversity – is now the focus for much of the rest of Australia for energy and sustainability.

What once seemed like an “alternative” lifestyle, is now a popular choice for many, making the beauty and laid-back charm of Nimbin a viable option for potential buyers.

Nimbin lies about 70km west of Byron Bay and 30km north of Lismore, on the doorstep of world-heritage listed national parks amid lush valleys and picturesque farms.

Home to a vibrant arts community, the people of Nimbin seem united in their beliefs that the environment and caring about the planet should transcend any consumerist greed.

Generous affordable acreages, as well as the rich volcanic soils allow property owners in

Nimbin to grow their own produce and live a truly sustainable lifestyle.

Estate living in Nimbin entails huge blocks with vistas to the Nightcap Ranges and Nimbin Rocks, or there are a host of charming homes and properties in the town itself.

Surrounded by a myriad of smaller villages such as Coffee Camp, Georgica, and The Channon just to name a few, the tapestry of the terrain means that there are hidden jewels just waiting to be found.

John Wilcox of Nimbin Hills Real Estate says the property market in Nimbin is strong with a variety of buyers looking for a more simple, eco-friendly life.

“Nimbin is now a fruit salad of cultures, and that is appealing to a lot of people,” John says.

“It’s still quite an alternative town, and it’s become a popular buy for people looking for a change in their lifestyle.

“These buyers tend to want fast clean water and tall timber in the form of farm land.

“The market is actually very good here in Nimbin,” John says. “Prices have increased which is great for owners, but it’s still a very affordable option.

“A lot of our buyers are coming in from the coast – areas such as Byron and Mullumbimby.

We find a lot of these people feel the coastal towns where they have owned previously, are now too overcrowded and the sense of community in those places has deteriorated somewhat. Here in Nimbin we have a very strong sense of community.

“And the relative value in Nimbin to coastal areas is very good, so people can sell up their home or house and come to Nimbin and buy a farm. It’s proving very popular with people wanting to live a more environmentally friendly life.”

AVERAGE HOLD PERIOD

7 years

GROSS RENTAL YIELD 4.5% Units..................................... n/a

Houses..................................

DEMOGRAPHICS Population

1477

Average weekly household income

$651

Median age

50

Page 29

suburb profile | Ocean Shores

SPOTLIGHT MEDIAN PROPERTY PRICE HOUSE ...................

$$

$

UNIT ...................

$720,000

BUY

$595,000

$570

RENT

$425

CAPITAL GROWTH Change in median sales price in: Past 3 months ........................

-2.1% 12 months .............................. -0.7% 3 years .................................. 36.5% 5 years .................................. 51.6% Annually (10 years) ................. 5.7% March

?

AVERAGE NUMBER OF DAYS ON MARKET (HOUSES)

85 days March

?

$

Families love living in Ocean Shores THERE’S a lot to love about Ocean Shores.

Home to more than 5000 residents, it’s one of the biggest towns in the Byron Shire.

Boasting a long, quiet stretch of beach, access to the Brunswick River and numerous nature reserves, it’s a pretty place that offers a relaxed coastal lifestyle.

Ocean Shores has easy highway access and is 23 minutes from Byron Bay, 12 minutes from Mullumbimby and only 30 minutes’ drive from the Gold Coast airport.

With a primary school, supermarket and speciality shops including a hairdresser, newsagent, bulk food store, sushi cafe and medical centre, as well as two soccer fields, it’s a popular place for families and retirees.

Waterlily Park, in South Ocean Shores, recently had a major upgrade, including the installation of new exercise and play equipment, a treehouse, barbecue facilities and a flying fox alongside the tennis courts.

There’s also the famous 18-hole golf course and Ocean Shores Country Club, with a front deck that offers fantastic ocean views. The New Brighton Farmers Market is a popular place for locals to meet on a Tuesday morning.

Ocean Shores has traditionally been one of Byron Shire’s most affordable areas, but things have changed in the past five years with median house prices doubling to the current $720,000. The market has slowed a little in the past 12 months, however. Stock has been low,

prices, especially homes that back on to Capricornia Canal. Nearby Mia Court, which has direct access to the beach, is also in demand. Homes there are generally priced upwards of $1 million.

South Ocean Shores is more hilly, but elevation offers some excellent ocean and hinterland views and quality homes on good blocks can go for $1 million plus.

and prices have pretty much stayed put.

It’s unlikely to stay that way for long, however, and there are signs that buyers are back and things are picking up again.

Investors remain keen on Ocean Shores and the town has a strong rental market, with a yield of 4.1 per cent.

North Ocean Shores homes are generally the most sought after and fetch the highest

AVERAGE HOLD PERIOD

10.1 years

GROSS RENTAL YIELD 4.1% Units..................................... 3.7%

Houses..................................

DEMOGRAPHICS Population

5137

Average weekly household income

$1096 Median age

44

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can down the road” and delay A FLEXIBLE approach to their money decisions. money and goal setting will “The secret is to set yourself help Australians improve their realistic targets, small targets,” personal finances this year. he said.

Volatility in shares and This could be depositing $50 property, tax law changes and a a week into super, a separate federal election in 2019 mean bank account or a home loan to people will need to focus on prevent every spare dollar from their own actions rather than spent on lifestyle. reaching specific wealth targets. being on autopilot and you “Put it It’s pointless declaring you don’t think about it,” Mr will increase your wealth by a Marinis said. “We can still get by certain figure because markets a little extra taken out of might plunge and wipe out your with our pay packets.” gains. However, clear written He said people who found goals about how much money ahead of target after themselves be can you will deposit regularly three months could consider acted upon, measured and lifting their target. “But don’t changed when needed.

Financial strategist Theo did who Marinis said people not set money goals risked financial failure because Australians tended to “kick the

makee it too tough so that unsuustainable and you g Beyond Bank Austral geneeral manager of cust expeerience, Nick May, sa settiing goals was vital to peopple something to aim and should be split betw smaall and long-term goa “Sit down with some trusst and form a plan to youu reach the long-term thatt may take many yea achhieve,” he said. “Also the shorter-term target w TV, a family trip or new celeebration, because th justt as important.”

Mr May said while a struuctured budget and f plaan could provide pea minnd, people needed fl c with unexpecte to cope prooblems, such as accid sicckness or unemploym “Even if you just bui

#THISYEARIWILL...

BE BETTER WITTH MONE

What is the difference between best before and use by?

“The use-by date refers to when it’s safe to eat or consume up until,” Blair says.

“The best before date is more about the taste and quality of the food rather than a safety issue.”

What are the risks of eating out of date food?

“There are many risks depending on what food it is. If you are eating anything like meat, milk or fish that are past their useby date you can contract food poisoning,” Blair says.

Can I freeze food like raw meat and defrost it to eat after its use-by date? How long will it last in the freezer?

“Yes, you can eat meat after its use-by date if you defrost it and

Juump on the of well-equ There’s

When shou throw out c food?

“Most canned one-and-a-half vegetables an canned goods five years,” Blai check the usedates. Also, chec similar to whe them and don’t in them, or are

Ham Ingredients 250g pearl bar 250g green be cut into 2cm p 190g (1 1⁄4 cups peas 750g leftover chopped 200g mixed g tomatoes, hal 120g smooth 1 ⁄2 cup firmly p mint leaves, c 1 ⁄2 cup firmly p continental pa chopped 1 ⁄2 bunch fresh

Page 30

Buyerr revealled

Price: $230,000 Agency: Ray White, Lismore Agent: Chris Harley 0412 758 830 and Neil Scott 0414 236 164

Western NSW cattle stations sell for $55m

HOT PROPERTY:The Nature Conservancy said the deal wouldd protect

almost the entir

VALUE hhhkj

over and Morvada Hussy’s Glo Silent Warr

illumiCon Danger Deal Street Life Kemalpasa

hussy’s Over And A Morvada Daktari

Beau Wilding

olympiC aCademy Wasabi Bob Lady Barron Little White Cloud

go the Journey Zalmona Mazurek Stellar Collision

Kemalpasa Danger Deal Street Life Illumicon

over an Hussy’s G Silent Wa Daktari

James Wilson

Wasabi bob Olympic Academy Lady Barron Scherzoso

mazureK Zalmona Karlovasi Go The Journey

Kemalpasa Danger Deal Illumicon Street Life

hussy’ Over An Morvada Silent W

notArBArtolo (Kirsten Mooney) 4g when first-up 1-1/2 len 4th of 11 ( Soft(5) Dec 28. Showed pace when n Bordertown 3yo+ Mdn Good(3) Jan 9 but place makes best appeal again.

ABBI fede (J E Hickmott) 3g By Kee for run on straightening when 5-1/2 Mdn Good(4) Jan 5. Found rivals to Gawler (Metro) 3yo+ Mdn Good(4) poorly but the extra trip could prom BAr Gem (S P Gower) 3g By Barba len, 1-3/4 len 3rd of 11 (3) $19.00 5 Shifted in near 1000m when lg nk, Gawler (Metro) 3yo+ Mdn Good(4 place at Gawler last time out. Getti ken’s thunder (Shayne Cahill) len 5th of 12 (3) $81.00 56.5 Sma at debut but dropped off in straigh 7.

6.

5.

4.

3.

2.

1.

VACAnt BloCk (D Clarken & O M Prepared for debut with 1/2 len, 3 Good(4) Jan 18. Trials: (2:0-0-1) Good nIC (J F Macmillan) 4m By Apprentices can claim Benchmark 82 $45,000 abnormalities when 15-3/4 len l D Tourneur 59.5 92 2.80 Mdn Soft(5) Dec 2. Safely held Aaron Purcell 1 22462 ScherzoSo w (4) J Holder 59 85 26.00 Bordertown 3yo+ Mdn Good(3) Grant Young 2 3s877 LittLe White cLoud (3) of chances. Not likely.

4.50 97 59 J Toeroek 3 52134 oLympic AcAdemy cn (1) Grant Young 2.10 GrABBInG Glory (L Macdona 1 L Macdonald & A Gluyas Ms R Clark (a1.5) 58 100 4 13341 WASAbi bob twh (6) 200m when 3-1 D Caboche (a2) 54 79 67.00 Shifted in near Worked right J E Hickmott 5 87630 mArmAn n (7) Dec 26.

C Caserta (a2) 54 94 7.50 Good(4) 3yo+ Mdn Soft(5) L J Cadzow 6 88643 LAdy bArron (5) Strathalbyn C Parish 54 76 51.00 Strips fitter third-up. Right in t Grant Young 7 65683 cASirAghi t (2) stolen AwAy (Will Clarken) 3 in debut lg nk 2nd of 10 (9) $1 Solid debut performance at sk

1,, 2, 3, 4 5,, 6, 7, 8 ALL RACES 6, 8

EARLY QUAD QUADDIE FIXED ODDS DAILY DOUBLE

SCREEN ROYALTY MARGOT ROBBIE SOLIDIFIES HER STAR STATUS AS QUEEN

2250m

Fleurieu Milk Company

30 Campbell Crescent, Goonellabah

PEACE OUT WHAT DOES $10K A NIGHT GET YOU AT SIR RICHARD BRANSON’S ISLAND

5.

4.

3.

2.

DESIGN/TECH hhhhj

THIS modern Torrens Title house is the perfect investment with mu uch potential in this strong rental market.

The four good-sized bedroooms all have built-in robes aside from thee main, which includes a walk-in robe and ensuite.

With a well designed open n-plan living area and sliding glass doors that open o onto the

Price: $239,000

A seven-inch screen is smaller and less easy to use than rivals but enables smartphone mirroring. There’s plenty of stowage space and room in the first two rows of seats — the third row is reserved for children. Boot space with all seats in use is 150L, expanding to 472L with the third row folded.

Agency: Harcourts Northern Rivers Agent: Brett McDonald 0421 606 422 and Tim Pilgrim 0432 640 611

ENGINE hhhhj

MARKET TRENDS 2018

The 1.5-litre turbo (140kW/240Nm) is an enthusiastic performer held back by a continuously variable transmission that desperately wants to save the world by minimising fuel use. That can come at the expense of acceleration, especially off the line. Fuel use is rated at 7.4L/100km and the CR-V needs only regular unleaded.

2018 DATA PER SUBURB

can claim Open $50,000 C Caserta (a2) 60 93 4.60 Ms K Crowther (a2) 55.5 98 10.00 J Toeroek 55 96 11.00 Ms A Jordsjo (a2) 54 100 2.70 J Holder 54 97 2.40

3 4.11 Barossa Fine Foods Handicap 12250m 2.

4.

3.

5.

6.

australia day

Apprentices can claim Benchmark 75 $45,000 T Pannell 58 92 6.50 Ms K Byrnes L Macdonald & A Gluyas Ms R Clark (a1.5) 57.5 98 3.00 Ms E Finnegan 57 90 20.00 G D Searle J Holder 57 96 2.35 Tony McEvoy C Parish 55 88 21.00 D E Magro J Toeroek 54 100 4.40 R & C Jolly

1 34214 Street Life d (1) 2 4s123 dAnger deAL wh (5) 3 109s8 bALWArrA goLd cw (3) 4 s196s iLLumicon wb (6) 5 14166 tripLe deez d (4) 6 24521 KemALpASA h (2)

2.

1400m

Benchmark 82 Handicap

4 4.51 1.

2 Lismore (H) 3 Ballina (H) 4 Byron (H) 5 Richmond Valley (H)

DRIVING hhhhj

1,417 1,065 763

MEDIAN SALES PRICES 2018 8

Ballina Ballina Byron

682

Byron

526

Clarence Valley

6 Ballina (U) 7 Byron (U)

356

8 Clarence Valley (U) 9 Lismore (U)

199

Lismore

168

Lismore

10 Richmond Valley (U)

136 86

Clarence Valley

Richmond Valley Richmond Valley

Houses Units Houses

$7000,000 $3800,000

Units

$3288,000

Houses

$4200,000

Units

$2755,000

Houses

$3244,000

Units

$2855,000

L Look beyond the the

over the most rutted roads.

M

To find out morre about being a Norco

$6880,000 $468,750

Murwillumbah 6672 2311 Kyogle 6632 2920 Casino 6661 2100 Alstonville 6628 8315

$9422,500

Units Houses

T

$65 Byron

5 5.31

MYKAELA PREPARES FOR RELEASE WITH LISMORE GIG PAGE 16

AUSTEN TAYSHUS IN LENNOX HEADD TONIGHT PAGEE 17

Lismore Tenterfield Grafton Woolgoolga

6627 82 6736 59 6643 56 6654 29

Becaus

Norco – an Australia

2.

1.

4.

3.

5.

6.

Killer Queen Experience 9/2

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

1400m 10.

australia day

11.

BAY E BLU ES

ND THE NEW ZEALAN DISE AND POSTCARD PARAD HE PACIFIC ‘HELLHOLE OF TH

12.

Apprentices can claim 3yo & up Maiden SW $30,000 C Parish 588 76 91.00 Ryan Balfour 1 9s600 ALmAdrAm (5) Ms E Boyd 588 80 91.00 J F Macmillan 2 38s05 cheeKyS bro (4) Ms K Crowther (a2) 588 84 31.00 Philip Day 3 88949 indiAn mo (2) C Caserta (a2) 588 86 81.00 Glenn Dix 4 0s027 mALouff h (6) Ms E Finnegan 588 83 41.00 Kirsten Mooney 5 95s43 notArbArtoLo (3) D Caboche (a2) 56.55 87 19.00 J E Hickmott 646 Abbi fede (11) 6 O Ridge 56.55 91 11.00 S P Gower 7 7s33 bAr gem h (7) J Holder 56.55 83 34.00 Shayne Cahill 5 Ken’S thunder h (8) 8 D Clarken & O Macgillivray D Tourneur 56.55 82 11.00 vAcAnt bLocK (10) 9 J Toeroek 566 69 61.00 J F Macmillan 10 s5896 good nic (1) L Macdonald & A Gluyas Ms R Clark (a1.5) 54.55 96 3.50 11 79s92 grAbbing gLory h (12) T Pannell 54.55 100 1.60 Will Clarken 2 StoLen AWAy b (9) 12 r in straight Blocked for run AlmAdrAm (Ryan Balfour) 5g By Al Maher - A Wee Dram (17:0-0-0): Jan 1.

G 3yo+ Mdn Good(4) when 7-3/4 len 11th of 12 (1) $16.00 58.0 Brybeck 1400m Murray Bridge 1300m Borrdertown 3yo+ Didn’t offer much when 27-1/4 len last of 10 (10) $31.00 58.0 Mr Botterill maiden rankks and hard to Mdn Good(3) Jan 9. Struggling to make an impression. Long time in the

see that changing here. w 11-3/4 len throughout when Cheekys Bro (J F Macmillan) 4g By Strategic - Tranzero (4:0-0-1): Wide Dec 266. Failed to fire 11th of 14 (10) $91.00 58.0 Southern Missile 1200m M’ville 3yo+ Mdn Good(4)Jan 16.. Average effort Soft(5) 5-1/4 len 5th of 7 (1) $14.00 58.0 Terbium 1100m Strathalbyn 3yo+ Mdn in same company at Strathalbyn last outing. Hard to recommend. when 1-1/4 len 4th of IndIAn mo (Philip Day) 4g By Uncle Mo (US) - Victoriana (18:0-4-3): Sound 12. Vetted - noo abnormalities 9 (7) $4.60 58.0 Out Of Kilter 1400m Balaklava 4yo+ Mdn Good(4) Dec Dec 28.

S 3yo+ Mdn Soft(5) when 22-3/4 len 9th of 10 (8) $7.50 58.0 Comfort Man 1719m Gawler but long time a maiden. t Freshened. Was safely held at Gawler last time out. Run prior to that okay Prefer others.

Took up a midfield position mAlouff (Glenn Dix) 4g By Immovable Option (IR) - Cara (4:0-1-0): Mdn Good(44) Jan 1. Shied when 2 len 2nd of 12 (8) $61.00 58.0 Brybeck 1400m Murray Bridge 3yo+ $11.00 58.0 Cobbers Mate at crossing, overraced early, middle stages when 8-3/4 len 7th of 8 (4) out of it att Strathalbyn at 1600m Strathalbyn 3y+ Mdn Soft(5) Jan 16. On pace but weakened right latest. Doesn’t look likely.

f any This publication takes all care in compiling details but cannot accept responsibility for their errors. Readers are urged to check Ladbrokes information with official lists before pllacing bets.

3.

2.

1.

Apprentices 1 s4075 SteLLAr coLLiSion wn (1) D K Weir 2 23s83 go the Journey tcdwh (4) R & C Jolly R & C Jolly 3 71453 KArLovASi tcwbh (2) Chris Bieg 4 18823 mAzureK twh (3) P F Blanch 5 63132 zALmonA cdwbh (5)

1.

1 15s62 morvAdA cdh (4) 2 7709s SiLent WArrior twh (6) 3 22910 dAKtAri tdw (1) 4 s2211 over And Above h (3) 5 38s87 huSSy’S gLoW td (5) 6 s188s Stone WArrior dw (2)

JOIN NORCO

WITH OVER $150,000 I YEAR TO MEMBERS E

MEDIAN PRICES LISMORE 2 HOUSES / $420,000 UNITS

ON THE MARKET

NUMBER OF SALES IN LAST 12 MONTHS

1 Clarence Valley (H)

SAFETY hhhkj

The VTi-LX is the only CR-V with active safety software, including autonomous emergency braking, lane-keep assist and adaptive cruise control. That’s good without coming close to the technology in the Forester. ANCAP tested it last year and it scored an impressive 35.76/37.

26 JANUAR Y 2019

S

6 6.10

australia day

Apprentices can claim Benchmark 82 $45,000 J Toeroek 59 96 3.70 P W Jolly J Holder 59 88 13.00 S P Gower Ms R Clark (a1.5) 56.5 88 8.50 D W O’Leary C Caserta (a2) 56 98 2.20 P Stokes Ms K Crowther (a2) 54.5 100 4.20 Patrick Payne D Tourneur 54 77 15.00 Aaron Purcell

NEW YEEAR’S

12 Forestooak Wa

3 1 2

SATURD AY

Ch arm ing co un try res ide nc e wi th sweep ing vie ws

2 3.31 Hughes Limousines Handicap 12250m

1.

australia day

Safe and smart — at least in range-topping guise — this Honda has a lot going for it in terms of family duties. Honda has a solid five-year warranty, but service intervals are 12 months or 10,000km, which is less than the average person drives each year. Costs are capped at $295 for each visit. Driving Australia’s annual average distance will involve four trips amounting to $1180.

The balancing act between comfort and cornering is one of the CR-V’s strengths. It ultimately favours comfort, meaning it irons out everything from low-speed humps to highway corrugations without wallowing when rolling through a turn.

The steering is lifeless but direct and acceleration is OK without rivalling the benchmark Volkswagen Tiguan.

Kemalpasa Street Life Danger Deal Illumicon

mazureK Zalmona Stellar Collision Karlovasi

australia day

3 1 1

have it that da “Meat varies dep cut. Four month maximum.”

stellar Collision Zalmona Mazurek Go The Journey

sCherzoso Olympic Academy Wasabi Bob Lady Barron

1 2.56

644 Elliss Road The five-bedroom resid dence also offers a main bathroom and two ensuites, e with the master including a walk-in n-robe and views to the nature-filled surrou unds of the Alstonville Plateau.

39 Bridge Street, North Lismore

Fair or fowl? How long

Wasabi bob Scherzoso Olympic Academy Little White Cloud

Steve Davison

CODE: AR

SITUATED on just under five, blissful acre properties like 644 Ellis Road R don’t come o the market often.

WE SPOKE with naturopath and nutritionist Jess Blair about what best before and use-by dates really mean, and how to keep the food in your fridge fresh.

Tom Hackett

TRACK: Good (3) RAIL: True.

Price: $225,000

DANIELLE SEN

3

2

1

Race

Agency: Wal Murray & Co First National, Lismore Agent: Ben Conte 0408 368 913

Handy exppir

MONDAY MONEY SAVER with Libby and David Koch

australia day

Appr

1 1221 no tieS (4) 2 216s1 chevALier d’e 11 poet’S LAndin 3 4 29901 StArvirgo (6) 13 cubAn toonit 5 6 3s551 exALted trA 7 4s12 bLind chAnc 1 StryKe in St 8 9 7s513 JAAmint h (7 no tIes (R W Huxtable) 6 (6) $3.60F 58.0 Dame 6 (1) $1.50F 59.0 Metro in great heart. Reeled th and looks very hard to t CheVAlIer d’eon (Joh when 8-1/2 len 6th of 9 Took up a handy positi Geelong 3yo+ F&M (Bm first-up. Fitter and back Poet’s lAndInG (Wil (6) $2.00F 57.5 Dunki early stages when lg h Good(4) Dec 29. Fre Morphettville last time stArVIrGo (Anthony 10-3/4 len last of 13 Slowly away when no Good(4) Jan 8. Time be competitive.

CuBAn toonIte (D Hampered near 400 Mornington 3yo+ M Riverdance Lad, El and ran on well to stable must be resp exAlted trAIl (G straightening when Jan 5. Shifted out (Metro) 3yo+ Mdn Raquel Clark takes BlInd ChAnCe (D 1-1/4 len win of Gave good sight 20. Prominent an query but he’s sh stryke In styl of 9 (8) $21.00 Freshened follow stronger compa JAAmInt (G V 12 (4) $81.00 5 3 len, 1-1/4 len Good(4) Jan 1

PROPE RTY OF OPEN HOMES THE WEEK PAGES 6-7 PAGES 32-33

Northern Rivers

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australia day

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suburb profile | Tenterfield

Escape the bustle in historic Tenterfield TENTERFIELD combines the conveniences of a modern town with the charm and ease of country living. Centrally located, an easy three-and-a-half hours drive from Brisbane, Gold Coast/Tweed Heads and Tamworth, it provides a safe and healthy environment for families with excellent education, sporting and health facilities and very affordable housing.

Established in the 1850s, Tenterfield is rich in history. Heritage listed buildings include the railway station, School of Arts and the post office. It was also famously the birthplace of singer Peter Allen, who immortalised his grandfather’s saddle shop in his song The Tenterfield Saddler.

Other notable residents of the town have included AB “Banjo” Paterson and Sir Harry Chauvel, born at nearby Tabulam, the first Australian to command a military corps.

The town is surrounded by magnificent national parks including the Bald Rock National Park, named after the granite boulders that dominate the local landscape.

Tenterfield has four distinct seasons – mild summers, blazing autumn colour, sunny winter days and bright wildflower springs.

Tenterfield has some lovely historic homes, quaint cottages and modern brick homes, quality acreage with and without dwellings are available at very realistic prices.

The town has been affected by drought over the past 12 months but local property experts says this has not deterred many buyers.

Ray White Rural Tenterfield sales agent Libbie Sharpe says, “I think the property market is still very positive.

“I’ve had a number of settlements in the last couple of weeks of higher end properties which is a really strong indication of the market.

“Buyers are enticed by the country lifestyle, great climate and lovely friendly town.”

“We’d love to see some rain – that would be great for Tenterfield as a whole, and for the

property market.”

Tenterfield continues to be an emerging tourism destination, with endless prospects for further development.

“We have some very dedicated business owners in Tenterfield, who are doing their best to put our lovely town on the map with fine dining, boutique shopping, local products such as our quality beef and lamb, wines, blueberries, and flower farms.”

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suburb profile | Banora Point and Terranora

SPOTLIGHT MEDIAN PROPERTY PRICE HOUSE ...................

$$

$

UNIT ...................

$730,000

BUY

n/a

$625

RENT

n/a

CAPITAL GROWTH Change in median sales price in: Past 3 months ...........................

-1% 12 months ................................ 5.9% 3 years ..................................... 27% 5 years ..................................... 39% Annually (10 years) ................... 4.8% March

?

AVERAGE NUMBER OF DAYS ON MARKET (HOUSES)

71 days March

?

$

GROSS RENTAL YIELD 4.5% Units..................................... n/a

Houses..................................

Population

2926

Average weekly household income

$1752

It offers a relaxed lifestyle, and is perfectly positioned to give them the room to move they are looking for, close to everything they need.

Terranora’s amenities include a supermarket, family-friendly tavern, restaurants, schools, the Terranora Tennis Centre and equestrian facilities.

Terranora is also home to one of the region’s premier private school, Lindisfarne, where children from as far as Uki, Murwillumbah and Byron Bay travel daily to attend school.

About 87 per cent of Terranora is owner occupied. Rental supply is extremely limited and vacancy rates are at record lows. As result, any rentals attract a strong premium.

In the past five years, the average house has seen capital growth of more than 35 per cent.

With limited supply, the tightly held suburb is one of the best kept secrets close to the coast and Tweed Heads that still represents the opportunity for strong capital growth in the year ahead.

For those looking to build in Terranora, the Latitude development, with its large elevated lots and views, adjacent to more than 20ha of riverfront parkland is proving popular. Stage One at Latitude has sold out and only four blocks remain in Stage Two. House and land packages there start at $650,000, while large park side and hillside lots are on offer from $300,000 - $395,000.

Median age

40

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infrastructure that will drive further jobs growth and increase local house price including the expansion of Southern Cross University, the $500m Gold Coast Airport expansion, and the $534 m Tweed Hospital.

The rental market in the area is very tight, with a vacant rate of 0.02 per cent and very limited rentals available.

Local families, downsizers and sea changers — people moving from Sydney and its surrounds for lifestyle are drawn to Banora.

With limited supply and demand for good quality and value for money housing the outlook for the next 12 months is excellent and will likely see further rises in value across the suburb.

If you want to build new in Banora you will find some good options, including East at Banora, offering land from $300,000 or house and land packages from $650,000.

The neighbouring suburb of Terranora shares many of the characteristics that make Banora so desirable.

It has a rural feel and elevated land with views, and a median price a little higher that Banora, at $730,000.

The suburb is a hot spot for families.

According to Australian Bureau of Statistics data, 42 per cent of Terranora's population consists of parents and children, making it the most popular place for families on the Northern Rivers.

8.1 years

DEMOGRAPHICS

Banora, Terranora the places to be CLOSE TO the border, tucked in behind Fingal Head and Tweed, are the neighbouring suburbs of Banora Point and Terranora.

Favoured by families and downsizers looking for lifestyle, the suburbs are 10 minutes from the beach, five minutes from the Gold Coast Airport and Coolangatta, and close to major amenities like shopping centres, schools and employment.

In Banora Point, the median house price has seen capital growth of almost 20 percent in the past three years, but with a median house price of $620,000, the area still represents good value.

Banora is predominantly owner-occupied and has a reputation as a safe, peaceful and friendly place to live, with a strong neighbourly spirit.

It has a two supermarkets, a medical centre and numerous speciality stores.

The newly renovated and extended Tweed City shopping centre is two minutes drive and has all major stores, movie theatres, banks and a large food court.

Homes with families in mind - dual living spaces, backyards and outdoor areas and townhouses or villas for downsizers that take advantage of the views across Coolangatta and the Gold Coast are favoured and if priced well, move quickly.

In the coming years, the area will benefit from significant investment in key

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ElitE SandStonE & StonEmaSonS 11 Old Pacific Hwy, Yatala QLD Phone: 07 3382 6999 - 0419 661 645 www.qldsandstone.com.au 7043607aa

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Independent lifestyle is on offer at St Andrews

Just two spots remain at stylish Carwarra Villas

HURRY!

only 2 VILLAS REMAINING

and villas are built on prime land overlooking Cawarra Park and front on to the North Creek foreshore area.

Cawarra is located at 127-129 Cherry St, Ballina.

The Village St Andrews’ Village units are purpose-designed accommodation to cater to the needs of every resident.

Featuring 60 two-bedroom, ground-level villas, The Village is located on a large, secure site and regularly hosts barbecues and movie nights in the air-conditioned Community Centre.

At the site there is also a croquet lawn, with regular cards, billiards and exercise classes hosted.

The Village has been designed to provide

LIFESTYLE: St Andrews offers a range of independent living options. immobile patients with greater access to the many activities on offer on site.

Located at 130-140 Cherry St, The Village currently has one unit available, and also welcome resident applications.

St Andrews Glebe Units Located only 500m from the Ballina CBD, St Andrews’ Glebe comprises of 17 two-bedroom units.

All units boast attached lock-up garages, as well as front and rear courtyards to spend the afternoon gardening or relaxing.

Residents are free to partake in the activities The Village provides, including barbecues, croquet, cards and billiards.

St Andrews’ Glebe units are located at 21 Swift St in Ballina.

Iluka Glades The Glades is located in the quiet seaside village of Iluka, just across the Clarence River from Yamba.

Close to the town main centre, The Glades comprises of nine units – six

PHOTO: MONKEYBUSINESSIMAGES

one-bedroom units, and three units with an additional living area.

All are set in peaceful gardens and nestled among walkways, with an air-conditioned community hall in the complex. Iluka Glades is located at 14 Charles St, Iluka.

Lifestyle and comfort No matter your care or lifestyle needs, each site has various accommodation types to suit you.

The Ballina sites offer

close proximity to transport, shops and medical facilities as well as offering the perfect retirement lifestyle on the Northern Rivers.

Iluka also offers the laid-back Aussie lifestyle, close to the river and beaches and Yamba township by a short ferry ride. ¨ Phone St Andrews property manager Julianne for an inspection today on 6620 5810.

Keys to a

Happy Retirement

Cawarra Villas 127-129 Cherry St Ballina New 3 bedroom Villas with ensuite, double garage, fenced rear backyard, views over Cawarra Park and North Creek foreshore.

Priced from $595,000 Call Julianne for a obligation free inspection today!

Let Julianne explain the benefits of living in an independent but caring community in the heart of Ballina. Conveniently located to shops, doctors, churches, hospital and clubs.

Phone Julianne on (02) 6620 5810

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INDEPENDENT living can be an important factor in your happiness in retirement, and St Andrews Ballina provides just that.

St Andrews has four sites offering independent living, and only six remain at the popular Cawarra Villas on Cherry St. Cawarra Villas With Smeg appliances, villas at Cawarra offer open-plan living and are interior designed with muted tones.

Villas are new, with three bedrooms, two bathrooms and a two-car garage.

There are only two remaining, so get in quickly to secure your spot.

Carwarra is designed to suit the burgeoning demand of aged independent living,

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