The real estate market in the charming village of Berry on the NSW Coast has kicked off 2025 with impressive momentum, attracting Sydney downsizers and holiday home buyers. In contrast, the larger nearby town of Nowra continues to demonstrate its steady and reliable property market.

According to data from leading real estate group Raine & Horne, total sales volumes in Berry were a 50% higher from 1 January to 28 February compared to the same period in 2024. Meanwhile, sales volumes in Nowra remained stable, with 2025 and 2024 figures closely aligned, further highlighting the consistency of the regional city’s property market.

In Berry, Mrs Jacqui Crapp, Director of Raine & Horne Berry and Raine & Horne Nowra, explains that the real estate market didn’t enjoy a traditional spring market surge. “September, October, and November saw regular transactions, much like any other month. There was no distinct spring market.

“By December, we saw 13 properties sell late in the month, giving us a late surge into Christmas, which continued through January and February.”

Mrs Crapp noted that buyer numbers in January and February were similar to last year, with savvy buyers already factoring in that the Reserve Bank would cut rates in February. “It’s not that we’ve seen a huge increase in buyers, but those coming through are ready to transact,” she said. 

“The more positive commentary around rate drops and growth in both capital cities and regional areas helped boost confidence.” 

Second residences and downsizers drive Berry market activity

Mrs Crapp noted that the buyer market is still mixed. “We’re seeing buyers interested in second residences return after a long hiatus. This buyer group has started returning over the past three to four months.”

She added, “There’s also a trend of older buyers downsizing from large acreage in the Shoalhaven into the Berry village or the nearby Huntingdale Park Estate, along with Sydney downsizers entering the market.”

The sweet spot for buyers in Berry right now is the lifestyle property market below $2.5 million, according to Mrs Crapp. To illustrate, Raine & Horne Berry recently sold 123 Donovan Road, Broughton Village. Spanning approximately 43.31 acres (17.53 hectares), this rural block is divided into two parcels—north and south—by the Princes Highway, each offering its own distinct charm. The southern section boasts lovely ocean views, providing an idyllic backdrop for a rural lifestyle, while the northern section features the shell of a four-bedroom, two-bathroom home with ocean views overlooking Seven Mile Beach.

Another sweet spot is the Berry Village, where Mrs Crapp says buyers can secure good value properties. A prime example is the spacious 4-bedroom home with a garden, alfresco, and easy access to Berry at 79 Albert Street, Berry[i], which Raine & Horne Berry sold for $1.46 million on 28 February 2025.

Outside of the village, Mrs Crapp and her team at Raine & Horne Berry have secured several listings along the Foxground and Berry bypass, where Transport for New South Wales has begun auctioning off properties between Berry and Foxground. “We recently won the contract for five properties in that area, which has been great for us,” she said. “People still come to Berry because it’s a destination, and the bypass hasn’t affected that.”

As a member of the Chamber of Commerce, Mrs Crapp is always monitoring these trends. “It’s been interesting to observe the impact. Many local cafes and businesses have reported a shift in customer behaviour. While there may be fewer customers, they’re spending more. With easier access to parking, visitors are no longer just grabbing a quick coffee; they’re staying for lunch instead. It’s been fascinating to see how the bypass has changed local spending patterns.”

$5 million revamp of Nowra's CBD to boost property market and attract talent

On the issue of infrastructure, the Federal Government has pledged $5 million to revamp Nowra. It will fund the Nowra Riverfront Precinct, a new mixed-use hub designed to reconnect the city centre with the Shoalhaven River waterfront. The precinct will include parklands, accommodation, commercial and social spaces, and active transport links.

Ms Crapp stressed the need for an upgrade to the Nowra CBD, stating, “It needs it.” Regarding the property market, she noted, “It’s consistent, driven by the ‘mum and dad’ market.”  Based on data from Raine & Horne, the market in Nowra has demonstrated stability, with 16 exchanges recorded from 1 January to 28 February for the past two consecutive years. In 2024, the value was $19.6 million, while it reached $20.4 million this year. Ms Crapp added, “Nowra real estate is consistent—it just ticks over. 

“Moreover, the CBD revamp won’t drastically change the Nowra property market, but it’s needed.

“Anything that enhances the presentation of Nowra is positive for the market. It will beautify the area, improve facilities, and encourage people to stay. Another important aspect is attracting skilled talent for employment so Nowra can compete with other regional areas. Overall, any improvement in these areas is beneficial.”

For all your real estate sales and property management needs in Berry and surrounding area contact Raine & Horne Berry on 02 4464 1300. For all your property needs in Nowra, contact Raine & Horne Nowra on 02 4423 4600.

[i] https://www.raineandhorne.com.au/berry/properties/79-albert-street-berry-2535-new-south-wales