What to consider when buying a holiday home
Summer draws many Canberrans over the mountain to visit their favourite seaside towns.
Whether sailing, surfing, relaxing on the beach or touring the wineries and award-winning restaurants, a few weeks at the coast can be the perfect antidote to unwind at the end of a busy year.
After settling into a place, with the fridge stocked and barbecue grilling, many of us begin to wonder: Could we do this year-round?
For three Canberra agents, their connection to the coast is strong; it’s where they grew up and now take their own families to reboot.
They share what keeps them heading back, along with South Coast market insights for those considering purchasing a holiday home or making a permanent sea-change move.
Think long-term when purchasing a coastal home
Jess Smith of Stone Gungahlin is a South Coast native. To her, it’s a place full of fond memories where she continues to return regularly to recharge with her family.
A big part of the allure is the region’s diversity.
“The coastal lifestyle is all about balance,” she says. “You get to enjoy a slower pace, ocean air and that relaxed community vibe, while still having access to great amenities. It’s a beautiful mix of nature and comfort.”
Malua Bay is her go-to beach, where she spent many afternoons as she was growing up, while a little further north, she recommends The Bannisters Pavilion Rooftop Bar and Grill in Mollymook for a refined meal after a scenic 40-minute drive.
According to the latest Domain House Price Report, the median house price for tourist favourites such as Malua Bay and Mollymook Beach is more than $1 million. But Smith says there are new hotspots emerging.
“Mossy Point and Tomakin are becoming increasingly popular with buyers as they offer an affordable entry point compared to some suburbs, yet they still have that quintessential South Coast charm,” she says.
For those looking for a sea change, she says to think long-term about how the property will be used – whether that’s as a holiday home, a future retirement spot, or as an investment.
“Also consider things like local council regulations, the costs of maintaining a second home, and whether you plan to rent it out when you’re not using it,” Smith says.
“Check zoning laws and council requirements for short-term rentals if you’re planning to Airbnb the property. Peak holiday seasons can help offset ownership costs, but don’t forget to factor in management fees.
“While owning gives you the flexibility to personalise the space and build equity, renting can be more cost-effective if you only visit occasionally.”
Open up your holiday home search
Chris Uren of Independent Property Group/North has been visiting the far south coast since he was a kid. His family now owns a home in Pambula Beach, and like many Canberrans, he makes the pilgrimage for Christmas and New Year.
Uren says he loves providing his kids with the same wonderful experiences he had.
“The coastal lifestyle is all about the water,” he says.
“[I love] spending time fishing with friends and family, paddleboarding down the Pambula River or taking the kids on the jetski and wakeboarding.”
For sparkling sapphire waters and white beaches, Uren says the Pambula Beach river mouth can’t be beaten, while the hatted Valentina Merimbula restaurant offers more than an impressive menu.
“It has an inviting atmosphere, beautiful interiors and overlooks the oyster farms in the Merimbula,” he says. “It has a really great vibe.”
When asked about the next hotspot for buyers, Uren says Eden is a beautiful, underrated town on the far south coast that’s going through significant change.
“The wharf was expanded to accommodate large cruise ships and there are several new developments,” he reveals.
“They have invested a lot of money into a new mountain bike facility, which is starting to attract more holidaymakers. Along with that, there are more cafes and boutique shops.”
When searching for a holiday home, Uren advises you to open up your search to new possibilities.
“If there’s an area you’re thinking about buying in, go and experience somewhere else along the south coast as well. [You may be surprised at] what it has to offer.“
Be mindful of different state requirements
Will Honey of The Property Collective was born on the coast, and while he’s now Canberra-based, he loves “everything” about the ocean, from surfing and diving to fishing or spending time at the beach with family.
His second home is located in Congo, a little village south of Moruya. The area is known for its glorious beaches and rock fishing locations, but it’s also a great spot to access the Bingi Dreaming track – a coastal walk that traces the ancient songlines of the Yuin people.
Honey says Canberrans considering purchasing a holiday home on the coast should be mindful of differences in the buying process between the ACT and NSW.
“In NSW, there is no building, pest or compliance report as part of the contract for sale like in the ACT,” he says. “Buyers looking for a sea change will need to organise their own inspections as part of their due diligence.”
Honey says an area to keep an eye on is Narooma.
“It’s a stunning place with a lot of improved infrastructure and investment going into the area,” he says. “Along with this, the food and beverage scene has improved greatly with The Merivale Group operating several venues.”
For example, Honey says the Sydney company’s Quarterdeck restaurant is an “awesome” spot for dinner, while Mossy Point’s Mossy Cafe is the “best place for breakfast”.
Honeymoon Bay and Congo are firm favourites for a swim and a surf.
“When looking to buy a holiday home, think about what you’re after,” Honey says.
“It might be the traditional option where you don’t receive an income when you’re not there; or a long-stay investment property that might become a holiday home later; or a holiday home that is also a short-stay investment where you could receive an income if you’re not there.
“There are many pros and cons to each but any property that receives rental income will be subject to taxes, so have a think about what might work best for you.”
Agent insights
Chris Uren, Independent Property Group/North
The coast’s short-stay accommodation market is strong. High rates during peak seasons make it more affordable to buy a property instead. Rent it out, then make use of it for the rest of the year.
Most of the South Coast offers good value compared to cities such as Canberra and Sydney.
The coast is more than a holiday destination – it’s a lifestyle choice.
With remote work available, people can live somewhere beautiful without sacrificing connectivity or convenience.
Buyers are increasingly looking for affordable properties that offer flexibility for work, leisure, and family time while embracing the region’s natural beauty.
Will Honey, The Property Collective
The coast is a wonderful place to live or holiday, with some of the most amazing beaches.
As infrastructure improves all along the coast, it will continue to be a hotspot for holidaymakers or sea changers.
Now’s the time to enter the market while great value is still available.
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