As Queensland’s property market continues to evolve, a surprising set of suburbs has emerged as the most searched-for online in 2024, according to new data from property tech firm InfoTrack. While well-established suburbs like Redbank Plains dominated house sales, future homebuyers are increasingly focusing on other areas for their next move.
InfoTrack’s real estate website, InfoTrackGO, revealed the top-ranking suburbs based on user searches, highlighting trends in buyer preferences and property investment. The most-searched suburb across the state this year was New Farm, an area known for its heritage homes and modern architectural offerings.
New Farm Leads the Pack
New Farm, a vibrant inner-city Brisbane suburb, topped the list of most-searched-for suburbs. With its proximity to the CBD, iconic amenities like New Farm Park, and a growing dining scene, the suburb attracted substantial interest, especially in March and April. Sandra Falzon, spokesperson for InfoTrackGO, explained that New Farm’s appeal lies in its mix of heritage properties and contemporary developments, making it an attractive option for a range of buyers.
“New Farm’s popularity is no surprise,” Falzon said. “It’s centrally located with excellent schools, green spaces, and growing investment in the area. The development boom has increased property availability, offering potential buyers more options.”
Tied for Second: Chelmer and Raceview
Brisbane’s southwest suburb of Chelmer, known for its stately Queenslander homes, and Ipswich’s Raceview both tied for second place. According to Falzon, Chelmer’s appeal is rooted in its large, traditional homes, while Raceview attracts buyers seeking affordable housing with convenient access to major transport routes.
“The popularity of Chelmer is largely driven by its historic homes and leafy streets, making it a top choice for families,” Falzon noted. “Raceview, on the other hand, offers fantastic value, which has made it a popular destination for buyers looking for more space without the high price tag.”
Affordable Suburbs and Changing Buyer Preferences
InfoTrack’s data underscores the growing importance of affordability and accessibility in homebuyer decisions. While inner-city areas like New Farm and Palm Beach remain popular for downsizers seeking a central lifestyle, suburbs like North Lakes and Raceview offer larger homes at more affordable prices, which appeals to families or those looking for more space.
Falzon noted a shift in buyer preferences throughout 2024, with central locations such as Bowen Hills, Brisbane City, and Teneriffe consistently appearing in the search rankings. This trend indicates a growing preference for downsizing into apartments or townhouses in more central locations.
“For those seeking larger homes, buyers are moving further out to areas like Ipswich and Moreton Bay, where they can find more affordable properties while still being connected to major transport routes,” Falzon added.
Key Observations and Market Trends
Other notable trends from InfoTrack’s property market update include a clear preference for freestanding houses over units, with 60% of property buyers opting for houses. This preference highlights the continued appeal of larger, private homes, especially in suburban areas, even as demand for apartment living in inner-city areas rises.
As 2024 comes to a close, Queensland’s real estate market shows that homebuyers are balancing the appeal of central living with the practicality of affordable, spacious homes further afield. The continued search for homes in New Farm, Chelmer, Raceview, and other suburbs signals a complex, dynamic market where lifestyle preferences and value for money are increasingly guiding buyer decisions.
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