In today’s real estate market, I’m noticing that buyers are casting their nets much wider when it comes to the suburbs they are considering. Traditionally, buyers tended to focus on suburbs within a narrow radius of the CBD, but recently, the search circles have expanded significantly. The main reason for this shift is the ongoing shortage of available properties. With fewer homes on the market, buyers are willing to broaden their search in hopes of finding something suitable.
However, there’s another driving force behind this trend—the development of “satellite cities” in Perth. These areas, such as Cannington, Karrinyup, and Joondalup in the north, and Fremantle, Cockburn, and Mandurah in the south, have seen significant growth over the years. Thanks to strategic urban planning from previous decades, these suburbs have transformed into thriving hubs, offering excellent amenities, shopping centres, and services that are essential for day-to-day living.
What we’re witnessing is a shift in lifestyle preferences. Buyers no longer feel the need to be in close proximity to the CBD. Instead, living 5-10 kilometres away from one of these satellite cities is now an attractive option. These areas provide everything needed for modern living, reducing the pressure to live in the traditional inner suburbs.
As a result, property values in suburbs near these satellite cities have been rising, making them increasingly desirable. It’s no longer just about being close to the Perth city centre; these satellite hubs are now becoming focal points in their own right. This evolution in the real estate market presents exciting opportunities for both buyers and sellers, as the scope for finding the perfect home continues to grow.
In addition to the shift towards satellite cities, another fascinating trend is the transformation of suburbs that were once considered less desirable. Many of these neighbouring areas are now experiencing a form of gentrification, driven largely by Perth’s booming migration. With new people moving to the city from interstate and abroad, these once-overlooked suburbs are being rediscovered. The influx of new residents has brought fresh perspectives and energy, as people see the untapped potential in these areas—whether it’s larger blocks of land, proximity to green spaces, or easy access to satellite hubs.
Newcomers to Perth sometimes are more open-minded about where they live, valuing affordability, lifestyle, and future growth potential over traditional prestige. As a result, we’re seeing these suburbs undergo a significant transformation. Amenities are improving, new businesses are opening, and the overall vibe of the community is evolving. This, in turn, is driving up property values and creating new opportunities for buyers and investors alike. What was once seen as a compromise location is now becoming a sought-after option, adding to the dynamic and evolving landscape of Perth’s real estate market.
With the above, we observe that people are more willing to broaden their search parameters significantly.
Want to discover if your home is within these newly attractive markets and what the current value increase looks like? Call Brett van Son 0403 171 092
By Brett van Son – Property Consultant