Research by realestate.com.au showed that searches for property in Queensland climbed by nearly a third in December compared to the same period in the previous year. This was driven largely by British people who are flocking to one of the most populous states in the country, according to a report by news.com.au.
The study found that property searches originating from the UK increased 31%, with the Sunshine Coast suburbs of Noosa Heads, Buderim and Mooloolaba as popular picks among potential buyers.
New Farm, Redcliffe and North Lakes, meanwhile, topped the list of the most in-demand suburbs in Brisbane.
Nerida Conisbee, Realestate.com.au chief economist, said Queensland, specifically its beachside properties, held the top spot in terms of total search activity among UK property seekers.
“The Hemsworth impact seems to be impacting the view of Byron Bay with this the most searched by UK property seekers in December 2018 — the number tripling from December 2017,” she said.
Universal Buyers Agents Director Darren Piper said that the chaos surrounding Brexit in Britain was enticing overseas buyers to explore the Australian property market.
“House prices in London have fallen for the fifth quarter in a row. It’s natural for investors to look for safe havens in times of uncertainty,” he said.
Australia’s property market has consistently grown over the past decade, with homes in Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne reaching record prices.
“It’s the perfect time for people to get their foot in the door and it’s a great time as a homeowner to explore your options, maybe make a move or stay the course,” said Piper.
