Property pipelines set to boom across regional Qld

Out of 25 suburbs nationwide, 11 were in rural and regional Queensland, the highest number for any single state, with other areas located across NSW, the Northern Territory, Tasmania and Victoria.

According to Hotspotting general manager Tim Graham, the chosen suburbs were backed by strong local economies, infrastructure investment, and low vacancy rates.

“We’re identifying locations where investors can achieve cash flow-positive outcomes without sacrificing long-term capital growth.”

Washington Brown director Tyron Hyde said Park Avenue in Rockhampton, which recorded a 29.1 per cent annual price increase, and Lismore in NSW, which rose 26.8 per cent, were prime examples.

“These markets are resilient, affordable, and on the move. They’re attracting investors who are thinking strategically and not just chasing short-term returns, which is always a bad idea.”

Graham also said that the report was based on criteria including market size, infrastructure investment, employment growth, and affordability, with each location meeting a high standard.

“With vacancy rates below two per cent in most featured suburbs and price growth averaging well above national benchmarks, our latest research offers a timely guide for investors navigating a complex landscape.”

Here are the top 11 markets in regional Queensland:

Bowen

With a median house price of $515,000 and rental yields of 5.6 per cent, Hyde said the coastal town of Bowen, in the Whitsundays region, showcased a diversified economy, including agriculture, tourism, and port activity.

“Its affordable house prices and tight rental market position it as a high-yield investment location.”

Bundaberg North

Graham said Bundaberg North has been offering affordable housing and strong rental yields, accompanied by a growing regional economy and lifestyle appeal.

“Its proximity to the Burnett River and Bundaberg CBD makes it attractive for both tenants and investors.”

Similarly to Bowen, the area has a median house price of $515,000, but with higher rental yields of 5.9 per cent.

Dalby

Hyde said that Dalby, located in the Western Downs Region, recorded strong rental demand with a 19 per cent annual price increase and 0.4 per cent vacancy.

The region currently has a median house price of $470,000 and offers rental yields of 5.6 per cent.

“Its agricultural base and infrastructure links support long-term growth,” Hyde said.

Howard

According to Graham, Howard is Queensland’s tightest rental market, boasting a zero per cent vacancy rate and affordable housing.

Houses in the Fraser Coast suburb, north of Brisbane, usually go for around $549,000

“Its lifestyle appeal and proximity to Hervey Bay also support future capital growth,” Graham added.

Mooroobool

According to Hyde, investors eyeing Mooroobool, in Cairns, will benefit from a tropical lifestyle, combined with strong rental demand and easy access to infrastructure.

Median house prices in the area sit around $630,000, up 14.4 per cent in the past year.

“Its affordability and consistent growth make it a compelling choice for yield-focused investors,” Hyde said.

Norville

Graham said Norville, in Bundaberg, has seen strong investor interest and overall buyer demand, recording a 21 per cent price increase over the past year.

With a median house price of $550,000 and rental yields of 5.6 per cent, he said that Norville was a standout in the Wide Bay region.

Park Avenue

Hyde said that Park Avenue has achieved a 79 per cent price increase over two years and boasts a zero per cent vacancy rate.

He said the Rockhampton suburb also has an affordable median house price of $516,000 and rental yields of 6.1 per cent, making it a top performer.

Proserpine

Graham said Proserpine recorded a zero per cent vacancy rate, combined with strong rental yields in a lifestyle-rich region.

Proserpine currently has a median house price of $525,000 and 6.2 per cent rental yields.

“Its affordability and tourism-driven economy make it a compelling investment location,” he said.

South Mackay

Hyde said the coastal suburb of South Mackay experienced a 28 per cent price rise over 12 months, driven by strong rental demand and infrastructure investment.

“Its 6.1 per cent yield and coastal location offer investors both growth and lifestyle appeal.”

With a median house price of $561,000 and rental yields of 5.9 per cent, South McKay is being watched as a prime location for investors.

West Mackay

According to Graham, West Mackay has seen a 19 per cent price increase and a balanced market with solid rental returns.

The region currently has a median house price of $590,000 with rental yields of 5.8 per cent.

“Its coastal location and infrastructure upgrades make it attractive to investors,” Graham said.

West Rockhampton

Hyde said West Rockhampton’s appeal lies in its central location, proximity to employment hubs, and infrastructure upgrades.

The region boasts a $516,000 median house price and rental yields of 5.3 per cent.

“With solid rental returns and rising demand, it’s a strong performer in the Rockhampton region,” Hyde said.

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