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Forster suburb profile

Forster is a picturesque coastal town in New South Wales, renowned for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and relaxed lifestyle. Situated approximately 300km north of Sydney, Forster is part of the Great Lakes region, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and modern amenities. The town is a popular destination for tourists and retirees, drawn by its outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and surfing. Forster's vibrant community is complemented by a range of cafes, restaurants, and shops, making it an ideal spot for both holidaymakers and permanent residents seeking a serene coastal environment.

Forster property market performance

Forster's property market has shown varied performance over the past 12 months. House values have increased by 7.9%, bringing the median house price to $865,000, while unit values have remained stable with a median price of $596,000. This indicates a stronger demand for houses compared to units in the area.

Sales activity has been robust, with 66 houses and 59 units sold over the past 12 months. However, properties are taking longer to sell, with houses spending a median of 76 days on the market and units 67 days, suggesting a cautious buyer sentiment.

The rental market in Forster has seen a notable change for units, with rents increasing by 8.5% over the last 12 months, while house rents have remained unchanged, averaging $600 per week. This reflects a growing demand for rental units in the suburb.

Median price - houses$865KPast 3 months

Median price - units$538KPast 3 months

Change in value - houses4.8%12 months

Change in value - units-6.0%12 months

Houses sold72Past 3 months

Units sold62Past 3 months

Median DOM - houses73.5Past 12 months

Median DOM - units69.5Past 12 months

Average rent - houses$600Past 12 months

Average rent - units$440Past 12 months

Change in rent - housesN/APast 12 months

Change in rent - units6.0%Past 12 months

Forster demographics

Forster, located on the Mid North Coast of New South Wales, is a picturesque coastal town known for its stunning beaches, lakes, and relaxed lifestyle. With a population of 14,187, Forster is a popular destination for retirees and those seeking a peaceful environment away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The median age of 57 reflects its appeal to older residents, who are drawn to the area's natural beauty and slower pace of life.

The housing landscape in Forster is characterized by a high rate of outright home ownership, with 51.6% of properties owned outright. This indicates a stable community with many long-term residents. Additionally, 20.6% of properties are owned with a mortgage, while 27.8% are rented, offering a range of housing options for different needs and preferences. The suburb's family composition is diverse, with 56.3% of couple families having no children, highlighting its appeal to empty nesters and retirees.

Forster's economy is supported by tourism, retail, and healthcare services, catering to both locals and visitors. The town's natural attractions, including the Great Lakes and nearby national parks, provide ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and hiking. Forster's community-oriented atmosphere, combined with its scenic surroundings and relaxed lifestyle, makes it an attractive place for those looking to enjoy a coastal lifestyle in a welcoming environment.

Forster infrastructure, key developments and investment opportunities

Forster is experiencing several developments that could impact its property market. The ongoing redevelopment of Forster Main Beach, including improved amenities and accessibility, is enhancing the area's appeal for beachgoers and potentially boosting nearby property values. Additionally, the planned expansion of the Forster Tuncurry Hospital, set to commence in 2025, will improve local healthcare services and may attract more residents to the area.

The recent completion of the Forster Civic Precinct has introduced new community facilities, including a library and visitor information center, enhancing the town's livability. Ongoing infrastructure improvements, such as upgrades to the Pacific Highway, continue to improve connectivity with nearby cities. These developments, combined with Forster's coastal lifestyle and proximity to national parks, are likely to sustain strong interest in the local property market and potentially drive up demand for homes in the area.

Forster rental market trends

The rental market in Forster has shown stability, with house rents remaining unchanged at $600 per week over the past year. In contrast, unit rents have experienced an 8.5% increase, reaching $445 per week. This coastal suburb continues to attract interest, offering a balanced rental market with opportunities for both investors and residents seeking a relaxed lifestyle.

Suburbs near Forster

Some popular suburbs near Forster include:

Common questions about Forster

  • Is Forster a nice place to live?

    Forster is a delightful coastal suburb that offers a charming blend of natural beauty and modern conveniences, making it a wonderful place to call home. Known for its serene beaches and crystal-clear waters, Forster provides a relaxed and inviting atmosphere that appeals to both families and individuals seeking a peaceful lifestyle. The suburb boasts a vibrant community spirit, with a variety of cafes, restaurants, and shops that cater to the needs of its residents. Families will appreciate the safe and welcoming environment, as well as the abundance of outdoor activities that encourage a healthy and active lifestyle.

    Living in Forster comes with the advantage of being close to a range of amenities, including healthcare services and educational facilities, which are essential for families. The ongoing infrastructure improvements, such as the upgrades to the Pacific Highway, enhance connectivity to nearby cities, making it convenient for those who need to commute for work or leisure. However, the trade-off for this idyllic coastal living is that the area can become quite busy during peak tourist seasons, which might affect the tranquility that residents enjoy for most of the year.

    Forster's community-oriented atmosphere, combined with its scenic surroundings, makes it an attractive place for families looking to enjoy a coastal lifestyle. While the suburb is particularly appealing to retirees and those seeking a slower pace of life, it also offers a stable and diverse housing market that can accommodate various family compositions. The planned expansion of local healthcare facilities and the recent completion of community projects further enhance the suburb's livability, ensuring that Forster remains a desirable place to live for years to come.

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  • Is it expensive to live in Forster?

    Living in Forster can be a bit of a mixed bag when it comes to expenses. The median house price is currently $865,000, and for units, it's $596,000. These figures are quite substantial, especially when you consider that the average annual wage in Forster is about $69,000. This means that buying a property here could take a significant chunk out of your income, making it a bit challenging for those on an average salary.

    On the rental side, houses average around $600 per week, while units are about $445. When you compare this to the median total household income of $1,009 per week, it's clear that a large portion of earnings would need to be allocated to rent, which might stretch the budget for many residents. Overall, while Forster offers a beautiful coastal lifestyle, the cost of living, particularly in terms of housing, can be on the higher side compared to what the average local wage might comfortably cover.

    Disclaimer: To assess whether a suburb is considered expensive, we’ve looked at mortgage and rental costs as a proportion of the average local salary. That said, everyone’s financial situation is different, so it's important to consider your own circumstances when deciding which suburb is right for you.
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  • Is Forster a good place to invest?

    Forster presents an intriguing investment opportunity, particularly for those interested in the rental market. Over the past year, the median house value in Forster has increased by 7.9%, indicating a healthy appreciation in property values. This growth suggests a strong demand for housing, which is a positive sign for potential investors looking for capital growth.

    While the median unit value has remained stable, the rental market for units has seen a significant increase, with rents rising by 8.5% over the last 12 months. This rise in rental prices highlights a growing demand for rental properties, making units an attractive option for investors seeking steady rental income. The stability in house rents suggests a balanced market, which can be appealing for those looking for consistent returns without the volatility seen in other areas.

    Overall, Forster offers a balanced mix of capital growth potential and rental income opportunities. The suburb's coastal charm and lifestyle appeal continue to attract both buyers and renters, ensuring ongoing demand. For investors, Forster provides a compelling case for investment, particularly in the unit market where rental yields are on the rise.

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