‘It reached a whole new level’: The top regional sales of 2020

Property sales in the Noosa Shire Council made up more than half of the top 10 regional sales of the year, as pent up demand from cashed-up buyers and the flexibility of working remotely drove multi-million dollar deals across the country.

Of the top 10 highest recorded sales in regional Australia, eight were located within the Noosa Shire Council including a home at 46 Seaview Terrace, Sunshine Beach which sold for $17 million with selling agent Karen Harman and claimed its spot as the second-highest sale this year.

No.46 Seaview Terrace was formerly owned by two-time US Open champion Pat Rafter who built the home with Byron Bay-based John Burgess Architects, said local agent Dan Neylan of Dowling Neylan.

“The property occupies two allotments, which is very difficult to come by these days. It’s a modern home that was designed and built to the highest standards,” he said.

The top sale was recorded by the $22 million trade of a stunning Byron Bay house on Wategos Beach.

35 Marine Parade last traded in 1994 for $1.24 million. and has since been redesigned by architect Timothy Moon into a two-storey residence with five bedrooms and a swimming pool.

The third-highest recorded sale was 41 Marine Parade, Byron Bay which sold for $12 million, followed by the house at 25 Witta Circle, Noosa Heads which sold for $11,250,000.

They were followed by a property at 47 Mossman Court, Noosa Heads which sold for $10,910,000, and 32-36 The Anchorage, Noosaville which sold for $10 million.

“Before, only a select few were able to work and live remotely but now that’s a widespread norm for many companies both in Australia and overseas,” he said.

“As a result, we’re seeing people move up from the southern states and expats moving to Australia now that they are able to operate from virtually anywhere… and Noosa is a safe market to invest in.”

David Conolly of Century 21 Conolly Hay Group, who sold 25 Witta Circle, said the suburbs of Sunshine Beach, Noosa Heads and Noosaville are particularly attractive for people looking for a sea change.

“It’s our own paradise,” he said. “Those chasing the tough waves, away from the hustle and bustle of the city, often go to Sunshine Beach. Noosa Heads offers just the same but also has the Noosa National Park, while Noosaville is a more laid-back part of town that is also only five minutes away from Hastings Street where you’ll find all the best restaurants and cafes.

“But one thing these suburbs have in common is a relaxed lifestyle. There’s good infrastructure around, schools and the weather is unmatched — it’s not too hot in summer and never too cold in winter.”

Liam Annesley of LJ Hooker Byron Bay, who sold 41 Marine Parade, said the premium end of the market really picked up in June.

“We first saw an influx in our holiday rental properties but then we saw activity increase in our residential housing market. It reached a whole new level of inquiries to where we are today,” Mr Annesley said.

“But while people are choosing regional, locals aren’t exactly letting go of their homes because where else would they move to? So we’ve had buyer demand lift tremendously [in Byron] therefore house prices have increased amid low stock and tight competition.”

Mr Annesley expects buyer demand to carry over to the new year with stock to follow as more vendors realise the high buyer demand for properties.

“It really is a supply and demand issue at the moment but we anticipate that to change next year,” he said.