The Rise of the Central Coast Property Market

By Rich Harvey, CEO & Founder, propertybuyer.com.au

For decades, the New South Wales Central Coast region was in a property market holding pattern. It was flying under the radar of homebuyers and investors alike. But COVID’s significant upheaval brought the region into the limelight. Now, a raft of drivers across the political and economic spectrum will deliver exciting times to the Central Coast – and those who own property will be among the biggest beneficiaries.
Anthony Knight, Principal buyers’ advocate for Propertybuyer on the Central Coast, has lived in the region for decades. We recently chatted about the region and why he’s excited about what’s to come.

The Central Coast property market has long been an overlooked gem. Once flying under the radar of homebuyers and investors, the region experienced a significant resurgence following the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, with a promising economic outlook and growing appeal, the Central Coast is poised for exceptional growth. Those who are looking for houses to buy in the Central Coast will be among the biggest beneficiaries of this transformation. 

Anthony Knight, Principal Buyer's Advocate at Propertybuyer, shares his insights on why the Central Coast is an exciting prospect for those seeking houses to buy. As a long-time resident, he offers a unique perspective on the region's transformation. 

Quiet times 

For decades, the Central Coast lingered in the shadow of Sydney and the Hunter Valley. Divided between Gosford and Wyong, the region lacked a cohesive identity and struggled to secure adequate funding. However, the formation of the Central Coast Regional Council in 2016 marked a turning point. 

This unified approach has yielded significant benefits. The NSW State Government's Six Cities initiative has injected much needed investment into the region, funding essential infrastructure and attracting private development. Improved transport links, such as the North Connex project, have reduced travel times to Sydney, broadening the Central Coast's appeal to a wider audience. 

These positive developments have created a surge of interest in properties for sale on the Central Coast NSW. As the region continues to flourish, it's becoming an increasingly attractive option for homebuyers and investors alike. 

A Lifestyle and Affordability Haven 

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated a shift towards regional living, with the Central Coast emerging as a prime destination. While the initial surge of interest was pandemic-driven, the region's appeal has endured, driven by a compelling combination of lifestyle and affordability. 

A thriving rental market, with low vacancy rates and strong rental yields, has made the Central Coast attractive to property investors. Meanwhile, homebuyers are drawn to the region's comparatively affordable housing market. With median house prices significantly lower than Sydney, buyers can enjoy a substantial financial advantage. As of August 2023, the median house price on the Central Coast is $1.07 million. Compare that to the $1.81 million median for Sydney housing. Now, if you’re a young family on a 30-year mortgage, that $800,000 difference in buy-in price will equate to millions of dollars in saved payments over the lifetime of that loan. 

For those seeking houses for sale in the Central Coast NSW, the region offers a compelling proposition. A lower cost of living combined with a high quality of life makes it an increasingly desirable location for families and individuals alike. 

Gentrification Driving Up Central Coast House Prices 

The Central Coast is undergoing a significant demographic shift. Once characterised by a predominantly blue-collar population, the region is now attracting a growing number of white-collar professionals and families. This gentrification process is a key factor in the surge of house prices on the Central Coast. 

Improved lifestyle amenities, such as a thriving hospitality scene and top-tier educational institutions like Central Coast Grammar School, are drawing in new residents. This influx of higher-income earners is driving demand for quality housing, consequently pushing up property values. 

Central Coast Property Hotspots 

The Central Coast offers a diverse property market catering to various buyer profiles. For those seeking exclusive beachfront living, iconic suburbs like Avoca Beach, MacMasters Beach, and Copacabana remain highly sought after. These locations also appeal to Sydney residents as popular weekend getaways. 

At the other end of the spectrum, Kincumber presents excellent value for families and investors. While less glamorous, its proximity to stunning beaches and a median house price of $957,000 make it a compelling option. 

Long Jetty has undergone a remarkable transformation. Once overlooked, it's now a thriving suburb with a vibrant lifestyle scene. Its waterfront location and improved amenities have driven significant property price growth. 

Bateau Bay is another area experiencing increased demand. Its proximity to popular neighbouring suburbs like Wamberal and Terrigal, coupled with planned infrastructure improvements, is boosting its appeal. 

For buyers seeking newer housing options, Warnervale offers a range of land estates with excellent accessibility. 

Whether you're a first-home buyer, investor, or downsizer, the Central Coast has something to offer. To maximise your investment potential, consider engaging a local buyers' agent with in-depth market knowledge. 

 To have one of our friendly Buyers' Advocate's contact you, click here to:

   or

call us on 1300 655 615 today.