The downsizing revolution is continuing to sweep across the Sunshine Coast property market as residents look to swap larger homes for more compact dwellings that align with their lifestyle or stage of life.
But what exactly is downsizing and how is it being achieved on the Sunshine Coast?
The market has seen a surge in the demand for downsizing properties, which offer homeowners the opportunity for reduced maintenance or living expenses.
Many residents are opting for modern, eco-friendly apartments, townhouses and smaller homes in well-planned communities that feature sustainable amenities and easy access to outdoor activities.
The Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute defines downsizing as the process when a household moves from one dwelling to another that may be smaller in size or of lower value, or both.
Sunshine Cove Realty’s Penny Service said downsizing was a key factor for many interested buyers wanting to make the most of the region’s lifestyle.
She said the “small houses, better lifestyle” movement was also popular and offered the same mindset of downsizing thanks to terrace homesites at the premier estate.
“More often than not, our buyers are at a stage in life where they don’t want or need such a large home,” Ms Service said.
“They still want a place family and friends can come and visit, but they would like the freedom to travel or get out and enjoy our lifestyle.
“They’re surprised by how many lifestyle options there are at Sunshine Cove and also our central location.
“Not having to spend weekends maintaining large properties is a real bonus but so is the sense of freedom that comes with not having to sacrifice the lifestyle they are after with a great family home either.
“Having less maintenance leads to more time to pursue hobbies and the lifestyle the Sunshine Coast is famous for – beaches, sports, cafes, shopping, day travel.
“Instead of working around the home, people are getting out.”
Described as the “residential heart” of the Maroochydore, Sunshine Cove caters to a range of buyers, including those looking to downsize, while also maintaining freehold ownership.
Downsizing also enables people to live closer to CBD or technology hubs, including the up-and-coming Maroochydore city centre.
“The community spirit extends into our community parks at Sunshine Cove but also further in Maroochydore and city centres when people have the opportunity of living, working and unwinding where they live” Ms Service said.
Sunshine Cove, by Chardan Development Group, is a 106-hectare greenfill site on land that used to form part of Wises Farm.
It is currently home to 2000 residents, with almost 900 properties built.
The last remaining blocks of land are now for sale and Ms Service said this was the opportunity to secure a slice of what the Sunshine Cove lifestyle had to offer.
The remaining allotments are part of stage three of the Lancelin Precinct and feature an array of urban and terrace lots, plus waterfront blocks that include sweeping lake vistas.
“All our land at Sunshine Cove is freehold and you can work with any builder you choose to build your dream home,” Ms Service said.
“The land featured in our final residential land release is receiving a lot of interest from local and interstate buyers, and it’s attracting interest with those buyers looking to downsize.
“But we’re also seeing people not wanting to live in apartments, investors and first home buyers.
“Lancelin is going to create a stunning finale to our award-winning development.”
For more information on Lancelin Stage 3, visit the sales office at 17 Hidden Place, Maroochydore, or contact Penny Service from Sunshine Cove Realty on 5443 2458 or penny@sunshinecoverealty.com.au.
Local journalists supporting local people. Help keep independent and fair Sunshine Coast news coming by subscribing to our FREE daily news feed. All it requires is your name and email at the bottom of this article.