Hockingstuart Ballarat has confirmed a noticeable shift in the local real estate market, validating Ballarat’s status as one of Australia’s most viable ‘e-change’ locations.
A recent report by demographer Bernard Salt outlined Ballarat and Creswick as desirable ‘lifestyle towns’ given their position at the front of the NBN roll-out and reputation as cultural hubs.
A strong 2015 saw Hockingstuart Ballarat come in third in the annual Real Estate Business Top Agencies awards in Australia, which is based on efficient and successful sales.
“We’re seeing some pretty strong signs that the market is starting to move,” Hockingstuart Ballarat co-director Tony Douglass he said.
“I think people are seeing the attractiveness of the house prices and affordability, but there is also the level of schooling that is leading to a lot of families to here.”
Hockingstuart Ballarat last year made more than 500 sales for a total volume of sales of over $144 million.
The trend has continued, with 45 sales made in February.
“We’re certainly seeing a strong push, particularly in the central (Ballarat) market,” Mr Douglass said.
“We’re probably finally seeing that the Melbourne market which is traditionally very strong, moving to Ballarat.”
