Newcastle and the Shoalhaven have been recognised as real estate hotspots by leading personal finance publication Money magazine.

The relative proximity to Sydney, and the Shoalhaven’s unspoiled beauty are central to the region’s expanding popularity, according to Danielle Harris, Principal of Raine & Horne Shoalhaven. “The Shoalhaven is less pricey than say Wollongong and Kiama, yet it is still possible to live here and be in Sydney within 90 minutes,” noted Danielle. “Three-bedroom entry-level homes start from $650,000, which makes the Shoalhaven a popular destination for downsizers.”

Apart from pristine beaches, the Shoalhaven River offers lifestyle opportunities for waterskiing, fishing and other watersports. Danielle added, “Our flat topography is popular with retirees who like to keep in shape with walking but prefer not to take on hills.”

The Shoalhaven is also popular with Sydney buyers seeking affordable holiday homes and younger families seeking sea change opportunities. “Shoalhaven Heads is just 10 minutes by car to bustling Berry for coffee and cake. But residents like to return to Shoalhaven Heads to enjoy the serenity afforded by our mostly undiscovered region.”

Newcastle’s real estate affordability compared to Sydney is a driver for investors and more recently lifestyle-changers, says Jason Maxwell, Managing Director Raine & Horne Newcastle & Raine & Horne Stockton.

“Ever since the Sydney market started to plateau, we’ve seen more interest from Sydney,” says Jason. “We’re seeing more real estate agents and other workers shifting to Newcastle.

As a lifestyle destination, Newcastle ticks many boxes, according to Jason. “There are big events coming to Newcastle, and we have Lake Macquarie the biggest saltwater lake in the Southern Hemisphere, which enables the pursuits of all manner of water sports and pastimes.

“We also have Newcastle magnificent beaches, while the town is at the gateway to the Hunter Valley. We’re also just a short drive to Port Stephens and we are serviced by an expanding airport at Williamtown which is about to launch into international air travel.”