How to research a suburb
Researching a suburb thoroughly can be overwhelming and time-consuming, but with the right approach, you can gather key insights to help you make an informed decision. Here’s how you can research a suburb like a property professional:
1. Start with property market trends
The first step to understanding any suburb is to look at its property market trends. This includes researching historical property price growth, current median prices, and future market projections.
Professional tip:
Use property websites like Realestate.com.au and Domain.com.au for suburb profiles and to track price trends.
Check local sales reports or use property research platforms for insights on future market conditions and suburb growth profiles.
2. Analyse the rental market
Understanding the rental market is essential, especially if you plan to rent out the property in the future. Check out rental yields, vacancy rates and the types of properties most commonly rented in the area. High rental yields often indicate a suburb with strong demand and potential for property value growth.
Professional Tip:
Use platforms like Domain.com.au or Realestate.com.au to explore average rental rates in the suburb.
Check vacancy rates from property websites and the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS).
3. Assess local amenities
The accessibility and quality of local amenities will affect your day-to-day life and the resale value of your property. Research what is available within the suburb, including public transport options, schools, shopping centres, parks, and healthcare facilities.
Professional tip:
Check Google Maps to quickly explore key amenities nearby, like schools, public transport and shopping hubs.
Older residents such as downsizers and retirees generally seek homes that are close proximity to medical centers and hospitals.
4. Evaluate the crime rate
Researching the crime rate in a suburb is essential. A high crime rate can affect both your enjoyment of the area and the value of your property long term. You can access crime statistics from local police websites, government crime data, or community forums.
Professional tip:
Visit local crime data websites or check local government reports for crime rates in the area.
Talk to residents or check community pages on social media platforms to get local insights about safety.
5. Check for future development and infrastructure projects
Future developments and infrastructure projects can significantly impact property values and create new boom suburbs. From new schools to shopping centres, parks, or transportation hubs, all of these can increase the appeal and value of a suburb.
Professional tip:
Look for local council development plans or government websites that highlight upcoming infrastructure projects.
Check local forums online or visit town planning departments for the latest updates on zoning changes and planned developments.
6. Assess the suburb’s demographics
Understanding a suburb’s demographics helps you gauge the type of people who live there and what they value. Families may prioritise schools, while young professionals might focus on cafes and transport. This research ensures the suburb aligns with your needs or investment goals.
Professional Tip:
Check the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) for demographic data about the suburb’s population, including age, income, and family structure.
Observe the area’s lifestyle and types of properties available for insights into the local demographic.
7. Visit the suburb in person
Of course, wherever possible, you shouldn’t only research a suburb online. Walking around the suburb, talking to locals, and getting a feel for the atmosphere can be highly beneficial when determining if it’s the right fit for your needs.
Professional tip:
Walk around at different times of the day to get a sense of the area’s noise, activity, and safety.
Visit local shops, parks, and cafes to talk to residents about their experiences living in the suburb.
How a buyer’s agent can help
Feeling overwhelmed at the thought of undertaking suburb research? You’re not alone, there is a lot to consider.
However, while you can certainly do this on your own, help in the form of a buyers agent offers significant advantages. Buyers agents have access to exclusive data, tools and local insights that can save you time, stress and guide you to the best suburbs. They also have relationships with sales agents and often get early access to properties, giving you a competitive edge.
Providing valuable expertise and support, a buyers agent can support you in your search and ensure you can buy with confidence in your ideal suburb.
Ready to buy and on the hunt for the perfect suburb?
Skip the stress of research and let us handle the details. Our experts can help you find the best suburb and property for your needs and offer tailored advice and guidance. Contact us to explore your options today.
