Have you heard? The ‘tree change’ trend is back!
I would argue it never really went away but recent analysis of ABS data highlights that property ‘lifestyle markets’, including the Southern Highlands, have seen a spike in internal migration over 2014-2015. It explains what has been helping drive the local property market over the last year and why demand continues to be so strong today.
The concept of a ‘tree or sea change’ initially emerged in the early 2000’s but dramatically slowed when the financial crisis hit in 2008. Now it seems the Southern Highlands is again attracting significant numbers of people seeking a ‘lifestyle’.
But whereas the initial tree changers were predominantly retirees, the current tree change movement is being driven by families with the majority of people coming falling into the 25-60 age bracket and the 0-14 age bracket, ie Mum, Dad and the kids.
It is certainly true that lifestyle is the key motivator of people moving to this area. When I speak to clients I find they are seeking space and a slower pace of life without having to compromise on modern convenience.
And in that context you may often hear reference to ‘lifestyle properties’. They are usually a property in a rural setting on a sizeable parcel of land, a well presented family home and features that might include a pool, a tennis court, large landscaped garden, stables and a chook yard. It will have all the essentials with a selection of fabulous extras that help create a dream rural destination with room for the kids to ride ponies and climb trees while Mum and Dad enjoy lazy days on the verandah or by the fire.
It is idyllic and certainly our team have a number of current ‘lifestyle property’ listings meeting that brief. Look out for Springwood Farm, Windrush, Round Hill and Old Merrioola Farm on our website www.mckillopproperty.com.au
But importantly in The Highlands space and a slower pace of life is also available in our towns and villages. Quiet, safe streets, great parks, cycling tracks and sporting facilities are part of life across the Highlands from Robertson to Mittagong, Exeter, Moss Vale, Berrima, Burrawang and Bowral.
Of course the chores associated with everyday life will be there when you wake up no matter where you live. But with no traffic jams and a strong local community network ready to welcome and support newcomers, the Highlands lifestyle is as much about how to claim more downtime as it is the myriad of options available to fill those extra hours with fun and family.
What’s not to love about that kind of lifestyle! The tree changers are coming for more than just the changing colours of Autumn. It is great news for the local property market so don’t hesitate to call any of the McKillop team of experts to find out more about the opportunities being created by the tree change movement.