Best Residential Property Investment Locations in Australia for 2025
You can invest in residential properties with a $300,000 budget in high growth
suburbs with strong rental yields and capital appreciation. Suburbs include Alkimos,
Eglinton, Yanchep, Ripley, Geraldton, Gladstone, Mildura-Buronga.
Key drivers of growth are the METRONET Yanchep Rail Extension, Ripley Town Centre expansion and regional transport upgrades. These projects improve connectivity and boost property values and rental demand across these suburbs.
Investment options include apartments, townhouses, land purchases and off-the-plan properties. Market trends show 5-7% per annum growth and 4-7% rental yields making these areas great for long term capital growth and stable income.
Alkimos, Eglinton, Yanchep
Western Australia’s northern coastal corridor, particularly the suburbs of Alkimos, Eglinton and Yanchep is emerging as a hotspot for property investment.
Located 40-55 km north of Perth’s CBD these areas offer a combination of affordability, lifestyle and significant infrastructure development.
With interest in these suburbs growing investors want to know what the returns and opportunities are especially for those within a $300,000 budget.
The Appeal of Alkimos, Eglinton, Yanchep
These coastal suburbs have gained popularity due to their beautiful beaches, relaxed lifestyle and improving connectivity to Perth’s CBD. Affordability is the key driver as property prices in these areas are relatively lower than inner city locations.
As urban sprawl heads north these suburbs are becoming more and more desirable for homebuyers and investors alike.
Property Market Overview
A closer look at the median house prices and growth trends in these suburbs shows strong investment potential:
Alkimos: As at September 2022 the median house price in Alkimos is $467,000 up 12.5% from the previous year.
Eglinton: Median house price is $450,000 with a 5.2% annual growth rate.
Yanchep: Figures for Yanchep vary but the suburb is showing similar growth trends as demand increases and infrastructure projects are planned.
Investors with a $300,000 budget may struggle to buy a standalone house in these suburbs but alternative options like townhouses, apartments or vacant land with development potential are available.
Infrastructure Developments Driving Growth
One of the key drivers of property value growth in these suburbs is the ongoing and planned infrastructure development. The METRONET Yanchep Rail Extension opened in July 2024 has already improved connectivity between the northern suburbs and Perth’s CBD.
This project extended the Joondalup Line by 14.5km and introduced new train stations in Alkimos, Eglinton and Yanchep reducing travel times and making these areas more attractive for residents and businesses.
Additional infrastructure upgrades:
Mitchell Freeway Extension: The extension of the Mitchell Freeway further north will help alleviate congestion and improve connectivity for commuters traveling to Perth from these suburbs.
Retail and Commercial Developments: The growth of retail hubs and commercial precincts in these areas is making them more liveable and economically attractive.
Education and Healthcare Facilities: New schools and healthcare centres are being built to cater to the growing population.
These infrastructure projects will drive housing demand and subsequently property price growth.
Projected Returns
With the infrastructure and population growth, property values in Alkimos, Eglinton and Yanchep are expected to grow by 5-7% per annum for the next few years. This is driven by population growth, improved transport links and continued investment in local amenities.
For investors looking for rental income, these suburbs offer good yields. Rental demand is increasing as more people move into the area for affordability and lifestyle reasons. While exact rental yields depend on the property type, location and condition, they range from 4-6% and are competitive to other Perth suburbs.
Investment Options with a $300,000 Budget
With a $300,000 budget, here are some investment options in Alkimos, Eglinton and Yanchep:
Buying a Unit or Apartment:
With the median house prices, standalone houses might be out of reach but you can still buy units or apartments within your budget.
Apartments offer rental income potential, especially with increasing demand from young professionals and small families.
Example: A one-bedroom apartment priced at $280,000 could rent for $300 per week, that’s a 5.5% rental yield.
Buying Land to Hold for Future Development:
You can buy land in a strategic location and hold it for future value appreciation or development.
With rapid urbanisation, land values will increase significantly over the next decade.
Example: A 300sqm block in Eglinton priced at $290,000 could appreciate 40% over 5-7 years as the area develops.
Investing in Off-the-Plan Properties:
Off-the-plan purchases allow investors to buy properties at today’s prices and benefit from future value appreciation.
They also come with developer incentives so you don’t have to pay as much upfront.
Example: An off-the-plan townhouse in Alkimos priced at $295,000 could increase by 20% when completed.
Investors
Alkimos, Eglinton and Yanchep are good investments but you need to consider:
Market Cycles: Property markets go through cycles and while these suburbs are growing, monitoring the market and timing your investment is key.
Financing Options: Understanding the financing terms, interest rates and mortgage structure can impact your returns. Exploring government incentives for first home buyers may be beneficial.
Property Management: If investing in rental properties, considering property management services can help with smooth tenant relationships and maintenance.
Long Term Vision: These suburbs are for investors with a long term view as the full benefits of infrastructure and urbanisation may take 5-10 years to materialise.
Alkimos, Eglinton and Yanchep offer great investment opportunities with affordability, lifestyle and big infrastructure projects.
Properties are moving up and projected annual growth is 5-7% so both capital growth and rental income.
For a $300,000 investment, options like apartments, land or off the plan properties are entry points into this market.
Stand alone houses may be out of this budget but other strategies can still deliver strong returns over time.
As Perth expands northwards, these suburbs will be the residential hubs. Investors willing to take a long term view will benefit from the transformation of Alkimos, Eglinton and Yanchep into vibrant connected communities.
If you are considering property investment in Western Australia, do your research and consult with real estate professionals to refine your strategy and maximise your returns.
Ripley (Queensland)
Ripley’s appeal stems from its master planned community, scenic surrounds and growing amenities making it popular with families and investors. Affordable prices compared to Brisbane CBD further enhance its investment potential.
Big infrastructure projects like the Ripley Town Centre expansion and better transport links are driving demand. These developments are contributing to rising property values, higher rental yields and long term growth.
Ripley
Ripley is gaining popularity due to its masterplanned community, strong connectivity and natural environment. Affordability is a key driver with prices lower than Brisbane metropolitan areas.The suburb is close to major employment and urban growth so it’s an option for homebuyers and investors.
Property Market Snapshot
A quick look at the Ripley property market:
Median House Price: As of early 2025 the median house price is $530,000 with 8.5% annual growth.
Unit and Townhouse Market: The median price for townhouses and apartments is around $320,000 so entry level for investors.
With a $300,000 budget standalone houses may be out of reach. But townhouses, apartments and land is a viable alternative with strong growth.
Infrastructure Driving Growth
Infrastructure is key to Ripley’s property market with several major projects improving accessibility and liveability:
Ripley Town Centre Expansion: $1.5 billion investment in commercial and retail infrastructure to boost local employment and services.
Ipswich-Ripley Rail Line: Proposed rail extension will cut daily commute times for residents.
Education and Healthcare Facilities: New schools and healthcare centres being built to meet growing population demands.
These will drive property value appreciation and attract new residents.
Expected Returns
Ripley’s growth and infrastructure are the drivers of property appreciation, values will rise. Better transport, schools and retail will make it more desirable for home owners and tenants.
Rental demand is strengthening, driven by affordability and lifestyle. 4.5% to 6% yields, investors can get a stable income and long term capital growth.
Investment Scenarios with $300,000 Budget
With $300,000 you have several options:
Buy a Unit or Townhouse
Townhouses and units in Ripley are affordable investment options with strong rental yields and long term capital growth.
Example: A 2 bedroom townhouse for $295,000 can yield $340 per week, 6% rental return.
Buy Land for Future Development
Investors can buy land in strategic locations and benefit from future capital appreciation as infrastructure and demand increases.
Example: A 350 sqm block for $290,000 could go up 35% in 5-7 years.
Invest in Off-the-Plan Properties
Off-the-plan developments allow investors to buy at today’s prices and benefit from potential capital growth before completion, often with developers incentives to reduce upfront costs.
Example: A townhouse for $298,000 could go up 18% upon completion, strong returns.
Things to Consider
Before investing in Ripley consider:
Market Cycles: Property values change over time, timing is everything to maximise your returns.
Financing Options: Know your mortgage terms and government incentives to get better outcomes.
Property Management: Professional management services will improve tenant experience and steady income.
Long Term: A 5-10 year investment period will allow you to benefit from Ripley’s ongoing infrastructure growth.
Summary
Ripley’s affordability, infrastructure and growth makes it an investment opportunity. 5-7% annual growth and rising rental demand means strong capital growth and yields for investors.
$300,000 will get you townhouses, land or off-the-plan properties. As Ripley becomes a major residential precinct, smart investing will pay off with research and planning.
Geraldton (Western Australia)
Geraldton, a growing coastal city in Western Australia, is becoming a hot spot for property investment. Its location, affordability and growth make it an attractive option for long term and stable returns.
Many are looking within a $300,000 budget. Geraldton’s property market offers a lot of options, with infrastructure projects and increasing demand for residential and rental properties.
Why Geraldton
Geraldton’s beautiful beaches, relaxed coastal lifestyle and developed infrastructure makes it a popular destination for homebuyers and investors. And compared to Perth it’s affordable, great value for money for investment.
As the region develops Geraldton is becoming an alternative to city living. Strong community, growth and investment opportunities attracts buyers looking for long term in a coastal location.
Property Market
A look at the median house prices and recent growth in Geraldton shows good investment potential:
Geraldton: As of 2024 the median house price is $350,000 with annual growth of around 6%.
Tarcoola Beach: With a median price of $420,000 this suburb is in high demand due to its prime coastal location.
Waggrakine: A more affordable option, Waggrakine’s median price is $300,000 makes it a viable choice for budget conscious investors.
With a $300,000 budget you can buy standalone houses, townhouses or vacant land in Geraldton. These options have capital growth and rental income as the region grows.
Infrastructure Projects Driving Growth
Infrastructure projects are a major driver of the Geraldton property market. Key projects include:
Geraldton Port Expansion: The port expansion is increasing trade, employment and local economic activity.
Road and Transport Upgrades: Upgrades to the North West Coastal Highway is improving connectivity for both residents and businesses.
Renewable Energy Projects: Wind and solar farms around Geraldton are creating jobs and long term economic sustainability.
These projects are driving housing demand, increasing property values and rental yields. As infrastructure grows and population increases Geraldton’s real estate market has good long term investment potential.
Projected Returns
With infrastructure projects and demand Geraldton’s property values are expected to grow 5-7% p.a. Its affordability, coastal lifestyle and growth makes it a long term property investment.
Rental yields in Geraldton are strong at 5-7% and is driven by agriculture, mining and renewable energy workers. The city’s growing industries and improving amenities is sustaining rental demand and investment potential.
Investment Scenarios with a $300,000 Budget
Buy a House or Unit:
A 3 bedroom house in Waggrakine for $290,000 could earn $350 per week in rent, 6.2% yield in Geraldton’s growing demand for affordable housing.
Buying Land for Future Development:
500sqm block in a high growth area of Geraldton for $280,000 could increase by 40% in 5-7 years driven by demand and regional growth.
Investing in Off-the-Plan Properties:
Central Geraldton townhouse for $295,000 could increase by 20% post completion, solid capital growth and a great investment in the growing regional market.
Investor Considerations
Market Cycles: Understand regional trends to make informed decisions.
Financing Options: Explore loan structures and incentives for regional property investment to make it more affordable.
Property Management: Engage a property manager to simplify rental and maintenance.
Long Term: Geraldton is a long term growth opportunity with infrastructure and diversification.
Conclusion
Affordable, coastal lifestyle and infrastructure growth makes Geraldton a great investment. 5-7% annual growth means value appreciation and rental yields.
With a $300,000 budget you can buy houses, land or off the plan developments in Geraldton’s dynamic market. As the economy grows Geraldton is the top regional investment in WA.
Gladstone (Queensland)
Gladstone, a key coastal city in Queensland is gaining popularity as an investment location. Affordability, lifestyle and infrastructure growth makes it a great choice for buyers looking for growth.
Investor interest is rising, time to evaluate the returns and opportunities. With a $300,000 budget you can buy apartments, land or off the plan properties and position yourself in a developing market.
Gladstone’s Appeal
Gladstone attracts investors with its coastal location, strong industrial base and heightened transport links. Compared to the major cities, property prices are affordable, a great opportunity for long term growth.
With increasing economic activity, housing demand is strong and both buyers and renters are interested. This growing demand makes Gladstone a market to invest in.
Market Overview
A quick glance at Gladstone’s real estate trends shows its investment potential:
Gladstone Central: Median house price is around $350,000 with steady growth driven by infrastructure and demand.
Tannum Sands: Popular coastal suburb with median price of $410,000 and strong demand for lifestyle housing.
Boyne Island: Family friendly suburb with property prices around $380,000 and continued growth expected.
For a $300,000 budget standalone houses might be hard to find in some areas. But townhouses, apartments or vacant land with future development potential are alternatives.
Infrastructure Driving Growth
Several key infrastructure projects are driving Gladstone’s market growth:
Port of Gladstone Expansion: One of Australia’s largest multi-commodity ports, upgrades are driving employment and economic stability and housing demand.
Renewable Energy Projects: Hydrogen and solar energy investment is attracting workers and businesses and housing growth.
Transport Upgrades: Road and rail upgrades are making the city more connected to Brisbane and surrounding regions for commuters and businesses.
Education & Health Facilities: Expansions in hospitals and schools are supporting population growth and property values.
These are driving demand and property values and investors benefit as infrastructure, industry and housing demand combine to make Gladstone a long term property hot spot.
Expected Returns
With ongoing economic activity and infrastructure development property values in Gladstone are expected to grow 5-7% per annum for the next few years. Population growth, industry investment and lifestyle demand will continue to support this trend.
Rental demand is strong with yields ranging 5-7%. As more professionals move to the area for work demand for rental accommodation will remain high.
Investment Options for a $300,000 budget
While standalone houses might be hard to find, there are other options:
Buy an Apartment
Units are within budget and provide steady rental income from professionals and young families.
Example: A 2 bedroom apartment for $290,000 could rent for $350 per week providing a 6.3% return.
Buy Land for Future Growth
Vacant land in growth areas can provide long term capital growth.
Example: 400 sqm block for $280,000 could increase by 35-45% in 5-8 years as demand grows.
Off the Plan Property Investment
New developments allow you to buy at today’s prices and benefit from future growth.
Example: Townhouse purchased off the plan for $295,000 could increase by 20% by completion, solid capital growth.
Investor Considerations
Gladstone has strong investment potential, but consider:
Market Cycles: Real estate goes up and down, so stay informed and time your investments right.
Financing & Incentives: Look into mortgage options, interest rates and government incentives to boost returns.
Property Management: Good tenant management and property maintenance will optimise rental yields and long term profit.
Long Term Strategy: Invest for 5-10 years to ride the infrastructure and economic growth wave.
Final Thoughts
Emerging as a hot market, Gladstone offers great investment opportunities with affordability, infrastructure and growth. Values will grow 5-7% p.a. for capital growth and rental income.
Investors with a $300,000 budget can look at apartments, land or off-the-plan properties to have varied options. Expanding industrial and renewable sectors will drive demand and solidify Gladstone as a long term investment destination.
Mildura-Buronga (Victoria/New South Wales)
Mildura and Buronga, positioned along the Murray River offer great investment prospects with affordability, lifestyle and regional growth. Their location makes them attractive for long term property growth.
With regional markets getting hotter, investors are looking at options within a $300,000 budget. Strong infrastructure and population growth will add to the areas investment potential.
Mildura and Buronga Appeal
These riverfront towns appeal to investors with their beauty, lifestyle and expanding infrastructure. They’re more affordable than metro markets so great for budget conscious buyers looking for growth.
With regional migration increasing, Mildura and Buronga are becoming important residential and investment hubs. Ongoing development will make them even more attractive driving demand for housing and long term capital growth.
Property Market Summary
A closer look at the median house prices and recent growth shows strong investment potential:
Mildura: As of September 2024, median house price is $420,000, 8.5% annual growth.
Buronga: Median house price is $385,000, 6.2% growth over the past year.
Regional Growth: Mildura and Buronga are growing due to infrastructure and population growth.
Within a $300,000 budget, standalone houses may be available. Otherwise look at townhouses, units or land.
Infrastructure Drives Growth
Infrastructure is key to increasing property values and livability in Mildura and Buronga. Major projects include:
Mildura South Sporting Precinct: A multi-million dollar development with top of the line sporting and recreational facilities.
Mildura Airport Expansion: More flights to Melbourne and Sydney.
Health and Education Investments: New medical facilities and school upgrades to support population growth and services.
Cross Border Transport Upgrades: Upgrades to Sturt and Calder Highways to improve travel times between Mildura, Buronga and regional hubs.
These will drive long term growth, making the region more attractive to investors. Infrastructure, population growth and economic growth will drive demand and therefore capital growth and rental yields.
Projected Returns
Mildura and Buronga will see steady growth with 5-7% pa over the next few years. This is driven by regional migration, infrastructure and increasing housing demand.
For rental investors yields are still attractive. Rental demand is growing as professionals, families and retirees move to the region. Yields are 4.5-6% and investment properties are an option.
Investment Options with a $300,000 Budget
Investors with a $300,000 budget have many options in Mildura and Buronga:
Units or Apartments
Units and apartments offer affordable entry with strong rental demand and steady income and capital growth as the region develops.
Example: A 2 bedroom apartment priced at $290,000 could rent for $340 per week and yield 6%.
Buying Land for Future Development
Land acquisition allows investors to benefit from future value growth, development opportunities and increasing demand as the region grows and infrastructure develops.
Example: A 500 sqm block in Buronga priced at $280,000 could grow 35% in 5 years as the region grows.
Off-the-Plan Properties
Off the plan purchases offer long term growth with possible developer incentives reducing upfront costs. These investments can offer capital growth and rental demand as the region continues to grow.
Example: A townhouse in Mildura priced at $295,000 could grow 20% upon completion and maximise capital gains.
Investor Considerations
Before investing in Mildura or Buronga consider:
Market Cycles: Markets go up and down so track regional demand.
Financing: Mortgage structures, interest rates and possible incentives will impact your investment.
Property Management: Professional management will help with rental returns and maintenance.
Long Term: Regional development takes time so long term investment is key to getting the best returns.
Conclusion
Mildura and Buronga are hotspots for investment, with affordability, infrastructure growth and lifestyle appeal. Property values to rise 5-7%pa, rentals 4.5-6%.
Investors with $300,000 can look at units, land or off the plan. Houses might be out of reach but strategic planning will ensure gains as these areas will continue to urbanise.
FAQs
What are the tax implications of investing in Australian residential property?
Investment in Australian residential property attracts taxes – stamp duty, capital gains tax (CGT) and land tax. Rental income is taxable but deductible expenses like interest, maintenance and depreciation reduce taxable income.
CGT applies when you sell, with discounts for properties held over a year. Negative gearing allows losses to offset other income reducing tax obligations. Investors should consult professionals for tax planning and compliance.
How does negative gearing work in Australia?
Negative gearing occurs when rental income is less than expenses creating a tax deductible loss. This loss can offset other income reducing tax obligations and improving cash flow for investors.
This strategy is suitable for long term capital growth. But requires careful financial planning as property appreciation can be risky if market conditions change or interest rates rise.
What’s happening in the Australian housing market?
The Australian housing market is mixed with prices up in the cities and strong demand in regional areas. Supply and infrastructure projects drive property values.
Interest rates impact affordability and rental markets are competitive due to low vacancy rates. Investors watch government policies, migration trends and economic conditions for future movements.
Apartment or house in Australia – which is better?
Houses offer stronger capital growth due to land value while apartments have lower entry cost and higher rental yields. It depends on budget, location and investment strategy.
Apartments in high demand areas suit cash flow focused investors, while houses in growth corridors are for long term capital appreciation strategies. Research local markets and infrastructure projects before you decide.
What are the best cities in Australia for property investment?
Sydney and Melbourne have strong long term growth but high entry costs. Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide have affordability, infrastructure projects and population growth supporting demand.Regional areas like the Sunshine Coast, Geelong and Newcastle have lifestyle appeal and infrastructure upgrades. Do your market research and economic research before you invest.
How do interest rates impact property investment in Australia?
Interest rates up = borrowing costs up = affordability down = price growth slow. Higher repayments affect cash flow so negatively geared investments less attractive for investors using leverage.
Interest rates down = demand up = property prices up. Investors need to consider rates when planning long term, ensure affordability in different economic conditions.
What are the benefits of using a property manager for my investment?
A property manager handles tenant selection, rent collection, maintenance and compliance, so you don’t have to. This reduces stress and saves time for multiple property investors.
Professional management minimises vacancies, enforces leases and keeps properties well maintained. Their expertise maximises rental returns and ensures compliance with tenancy laws and market conditions.
How do I finance my investment property in Australia?
Options are standard home loans, interest only loans and equity based financing. Lenders assess income, credit history and property value to determine borrowing capacity and loan terms.
Investors can use government schemes, offset accounts or redraw facilities for flexibility. Comparing lenders and structuring loans efficiently helps you optimise returns and manage risk.
What’s the process for buying an investment property in Australia?
The process is budget, financing and research. Investors then select a property, negotiate terms and sign contracts, ensuring due diligence is completed.
A conveyancer handles the legal stuff, including settlement and transfer of property. After purchase investors get tenants or renovate before renting out for income.
Are there any government incentives for property investors in Australia?
Government incentives include tax deductions on interest payments, depreciation and maintenance costs. First time investors can access stamp duty concessions and grants under specific schemes.
In some cases there are incentives for build to rent and regional investment. Policies change so check state and federal programs regularly to maximise benefits.
What should I consider when choosing a location for investment?
Key factors are population growth, employment opportunities, infrastructure projects and rental demand. Areas with economic activity and transport links generally provide better long term investment prospects.
Proximity to schools, shopping centres and public transport improves property appeal. Investors should research vacancy rates, median prices and historical growth before buying.
How do I work out the rental yield of a property?
Gross rental yield is calculated by dividing annual rent by property price and then x 100. This is before expenses.
Net yield takes into account management fees, maintenance and rates to give a better picture of actual profit. Aim for a competitive yield for sustainable returns.
What are the risks of property investment in Australia?
Market fluctuations can affect property values and rent, returns. Interest rate rises increase mortgage repayments and can strain investor cash flow.
Other risks include tenant issues, maintenance costs and government policy changes. Diversify, research and have a financial buffer to mitigate risks.
How does foreign investment impact the Australian property market?
Foreign investment boosts demand, especially in capital cities, and drives prices up. Government restrictions limit purchases to new builds so domestic buyers remain competitive.
Regulatory changes affect foreign investor activity. Market trends change with economic conditions, interest rates and policy changes affecting overseas buyers.
What are the rules for renting out a property in Australia?
Landlords must comply with tenancy laws and ensure rental agreements meet fair housing laws. Properties must meet safety standards including smoke alarms, electrical compliance and maintenance obligations.
Bond lodgement, tenant rights and eviction processes are state specific. Engage a property manager to comply and reduce the risk of disputes and legal headaches.
How do I minimize vacancies in my rental property?
Set competitive rent, keep the property in good condition and target good tenants to minimize vacancies. Offer incentives like short term discounts to attract and retain tenants.
Effective marketing, professional management and flexible lease terms improve occupancy rates. Keep the property well maintained and responsive to tenant needs for long term rental stability.
What are the costs involved in an investment property?
Maintenance costs are repairs, property management fees, insurance, council rates and strata fees (if applicable). Unexpected repairs need financial buffers to avoid cash flow issues.
Maintenance prevents costly damage and tenant satisfaction. Factoring these in your financial planning means sustainable property investment without financial stress.
How does depreciation work for investment properties?
Depreciation allows you to claim wear and tear over time. Capital works is for the building, while plant and equipment is for fixtures and fittings.
A depreciation schedule from a qualified quantity surveyor will get you the most tax benefits. Claiming depreciation reduces your taxable income and improves overall investment returns and cash flow.
What’s the 2025 outlook for the Australian property market?
The 2025 forecast is moderate growth due to population growth, infrastructure investment and economic recovery. Affordability and interest rates will impact the market.
Regional areas may continue to grow due to lifestyle changes and work-from-home trends. Keep an eye on policy changes, lending and supply and demand for informed decisions.
How do I use equity from my current property to invest in another?
Equity is the difference between property value and loan balance. Lenders will lend against this equity for further investment.
Using equity funds deposits or full purchases. Investors should look at loan structures, interest rates and repayment terms to get the most out of the leverage while staying safe.
OriginallyPublished: https://www.starinvestment.com.au/residential-property-investment-australia-2025/
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