Trends - tree change destinations

A growing trend towards ‘tree changes’ over ‘sea changes’ has seen growth in interest and development of inland regional centres.

A recent Domain Property Trends article entitled ‘Why home buyers are heading for the hills’ looked at buyers’ desire for space and tranquillity in the regions.

According to Regional Australia Institute’s Chief Executive Liz Ritchie, Regional Victoria is the third most popular destination for metropolitan movers. But this, she reflects, is not surprising:

“Good job prospects, the likelihood of better house prices and availability, and lifestyle benefits continue to draw people.”

While the coastal lifestyle is still popular, with Greater Geelong being the nation’s second most popular regional centre, more people are looking inland. After the pandemic, tree changes overtook popular coastal locations in Victoria like the Mornington Peninsula and Warrnambool.

In February this year, The Age’s property section, Domain Out of Town featured Daylesford as a popular and growing ‘tree-change destination’, offering both the freedom of a country lifestyle without forgoing the convenience of larger city amenity, with easy connections to both Ballarat and Melbourne.

Described as ‘punching above its weight’ in culinary offerings, Daylesford’s natural beauty and wellness offerings make it attractive for discerning buyers.

Local agent and resident, Belle Property’s Will Walton says that while renovated period homes on large blocks are attractive options for first home buyers in Daylesford, new homes are also increasing in popularity:

“[There is] a big trend towards architect-designed homes that are energy-efficient and sustainable.”

One of the newer neighbourhoods in Daylesford Middleton Field offers a variety of sustainable new home options with options to build on traditional sized lots or larger lifestyle blocks as well as new eco townhouses designed by highly regarded sustainable Melbourne architect Breathe.