First-home buyers boost Sunshine Coast settlements 18% this quarter

First-home buyer settlements on the Sunshine Coast rose to 214 in the three months to June, according to CoreLogic figures released this week, with the strongest lift recorded in properties priced under $700,000.

The increase comes as the regional median sits at $880,000 and remote-worker demand continues to push premium stock in Noosa Heads above $2 million, leaving entry-level buyers focused on established pockets where new supply from Maroochydore CBD projects is still months from completion.

Suburbs drawing first-home traffic

Caloundra South and Mountain Creek recorded the highest first-home buyer volumes, with buyers securing three-bedroom homes on streets such as Caloundra Road and University Way. Local agents report that properties within 800 metres of Kawana Shoppingworld and the new Sippy Downs parkland upgrades are moving within 18 days of listing, well below the Sunshine Coast average.

Queensland’s First Home Owner Grant, combined with the state’s stamp-duty concession for homes under $650,000, has kept activity steady despite higher interest rates. Sales data show 31 per cent of all transactions in the June quarter fell below $700,000, up from 24 per cent in the same period last year.

Where prices sit now

Median prices for three-bedroom homes in Caloundra South reached $665,000 at the end of June, while Mountain Creek recorded $695,000. Both figures remain below the broader Sunshine Coast median and represent the main entry points for buyers using the grant scheme.

Buyers should inspect listings in these two suburbs before the next interest-rate decision in August and confirm grant eligibility directly with the Queensland Revenue Office to avoid delays on contracts signed after 31 July.

This article is general information only and is not personal financial or investment advice. Consider your own circumstances and seek licensed professional advice before making financial decisions.