Is buying a property in Ascot a good investment?

Last updated on December 20, 2023

Yes, the analysis of Brisbane's property market is included in our pack

If you've marveled at the elegant homes and horse racing culture of Ascot, you may have envisioned making this prestigious Brisbane suburb your sophisticated and luxurious residence.

Is it a good idea though? What's the current state of the real estate market in that area? Are property values appreciating or depreciating? Are investors seeing returns on their real estate investments? How's the demand for rentals?

We'll answer all these questions for you! When building and updating our property pack for Australia, our team has been researching and surveying this area. In fact, there is significant customer interest in investing there. Therefore, we believe it would be beneficial to include some information about it in our property pack.

Why do property buyers like investing in Ascot?

Ascot in Brisbane is often hailed as a highly desirable location for property buyers, and for good reasons.

It has several unique attributes that set it apart from other real estate markets, not just in Brisbane but across Australia.

Firstly, let's talk about the charm and appeal of Ascot. It's known for its leafy streets, heritage-listed homes, and an overall sense of elegance and prestige.

This area exudes a kind of old-world charm that's hard to find in modern suburbs. It's like stepping into a quieter, more refined era, which is a big draw for many buyers.

Comparing Ascot to other areas in Brisbane, one of the most striking differences is its architectural beauty. Many homes in Ascot are characterized by their grand Queenslander-style architecture, complete with wide verandas and high ceilings.

This isn't something you'll find in every Brisbane suburb, especially the newer, more modern developments.

Ascot's popularity as a real estate haven isn't a recent phenomenon. It's been a sought-after area for quite some time, growing steadily in demand since the early 2000s.

This growth in popularity is backed by its consistent property value appreciation, which suggests that the hype around Ascot isn't just a passing trend. It's a stable, long-term investment for property buyers.

The kind of people attracted to Ascot are diverse, but there's a common thread among them. They tend to be individuals who appreciate the finer things in life. This includes families who are drawn to the area's reputable schools and safe, community-oriented environment.

Then there are professionals who enjoy the suburb's proximity to Brisbane's CBD, offering a perfect blend of suburban tranquility and city convenience.

However, like any area, Ascot isn't without its weaknesses. The very aspects that make it attractive are its heritage charm and exclusivity can also be seen as drawbacks.

For instance, the cost of living and property prices in Ascot are significantly higher than in many other Brisbane suburbs. This might put it out of reach for some buyers.

Additionally, while the area's historic nature is appealing, it can also mean that some properties might require more maintenance or renovation work to meet modern living standards.

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Why is Ascot a nice place to live?

Ascot is often celebrated as a great place to live, and there are multiple factors that contribute to this reputation.

Delving into the lifestyle and culture of Ascot, it's characterized by a blend of traditional charm and modern sophistication. The area is known for its well-preserved Queenslander homes, which add a historical touch.

Its streets lined with jacaranda and other lush greenery create a serene, picturesque setting. This contributes to a relaxed yet upscale lifestyle that's highly appealing.

The expat community in Ascot is quite vibrant, with many international residents drawn to the area for its lifestyle, safety, and amenities. As a result, there's a sense of cultural diversity that adds to the suburb's charm.

Living in Ascot does come with a higher price tag compared to some other Brisbane suburbs. The cost of living here is generally higher due to the premium nature of real estate, dining, and shopping options.

When it comes to safety, Ascot is regarded as one of the safer suburbs in Brisbane. It's a family-friendly area, and the sense of community is strong, which often translates into a safer environment.

Amenities and facilities in Ascot are top-notch. For families, the availability of quality education is a big draw, with reputable schools like Ascot State School and St. Margaret's Anglican Girls School located within the suburb.

Health facilities are also readily available, with the nearby Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital being one of the largest and most well-equipped in Queensland.

For shopping and leisure, Racecourse Road presents a variety of boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants, while the Portside Wharf offers a more modern shopping and dining experience.

The infrastructure in Ascot is well-maintained, befitting its status as a premium suburb. Roads are generally in good condition, utilities are reliable, and internet connectivity is strong, meeting the needs of both residents and businesses.

Accessibility is another of Ascot's strengths. It's well-connected to the rest of Brisbane, making commuting relatively hassle-free. The suburb is just about 7 kilometers from the Brisbane CBD, making it a convenient location for professionals.

Furthermore, Ascot is close to major transport hubs like the Brisbane Airport, which is only a short drive away, adding to its appeal for frequent travelers.

Public transportation options in Ascot are quite comprehensive. The area is served by Ascot railway station, providing easy access to the city and other suburbs.

Additionally, there are several bus routes that run through Ascot, making it easy to get around without a car.

Overall, Ascot offers a blend of historical charm, modern amenities, and a high standard of living, making it an attractive choice for many looking to reside in Brisbane. The combination of safety, community feel, and accessibility, alongside the premium lifestyle it offers, makes Ascot a particularly nice place to live.

How much does it cost to buy real estate in Ascot?

If you need a detailed and updated analysis of the prices, rents and yields, you can get our full guide about real estate investment in Australia.

Understanding the cost of buying property in Ascot requires a look at various factors, including the types of properties available, market trends, and future developments.

Ascot offers a diverse range of residential properties, including apartments, traditional Queenslanders, and luxury villas. Each type caters to different preferences, but there's a notable demand for the classic Queenslander homes.

These houses, known for their distinctive architecture with large verandas and high ceilings, are sought after for their charm and character.

In terms of pricing, the property market in Ascot is on the higher end. Prices per square meter can vary greatly depending on the type of property and its condition. For instance, apartments might have a different price range compared to detached houses.

Historically, the area has seen a steady increase in property values, thanks to its desirable location, lifestyle offerings, and the overall Brisbane property market trends.

Looking at recent years, there's been a consistent appreciation in property values in Ascot. This trend is influenced by factors like the area's continued popularity, limited supply of new developments, and the ongoing appeal of its unique housing styles.

It's mainly resale properties that dominate the market, with new developments being relatively rare. This scarcity adds to the value of existing properties.

Regarding future developments and city planning changes, these can significantly impact property values.

For example, any new infrastructure projects, transportation improvements, or commercial developments in or around Ascot could make the area even more attractive, potentially driving up property prices.

However, specific upcoming developments would need to be identified to understand their direct impact on the real estate market.

Predicting the real estate market in Ascot in the coming years hinges on several factors. The continued desirability of the area, its reputation as a prestigious suburb, and the general trend of the Brisbane property market will play crucial roles.

If the demand for the unique properties in Ascot remains high and the supply stays limited, it's plausible to expect a continued increase in property values.

Several indicators suggest a potential increase in property values in Ascot. These include the area's enduring appeal, its stable and affluent demographic, and its proximity to Brisbane's CBD and other key amenities.

The unique blend of historical and modern properties in Ascot also adds to its allure, making it a standout choice for many property buyers.

Where is the best area to buy a property in Ascot?

When considering the best area to buy a property in Ascot, it's essential to understand the nuances of different parts of the suburb, as they each offer a unique atmosphere, property types, and pricing.

Ascot is known for its tree-lined streets and elegant homes, but within the suburb, there are variations. This area is bustling with cafes, boutiques, and offers a vibrant lifestyle. Properties here tend to be a mix of charming Queenslander homes and stylish apartments.

Being closer to amenities, these properties can be pricier, but they're perfect for those seeking a lively, convenient urban living experience.

Another notable part of Ascot is the area around Oriel Park. This region is more family-oriented and is known for its tranquil environment. The properties here are predominantly spacious, detached houses, often with generous gardens.

Regarding up-and-coming areas within Ascot, it's worth keeping an eye on the regions that are seeing newer developments. While Ascot is predominantly established and doesn't see as much new construction as other suburbs, any new development could be a sign of an emerging hotspot within the suburb.

For those looking to invest or reside in Ascot, focusing on areas near Racecourse Road or Oriel Park would be a wise choice. These areas offer a blend of lifestyle, convenience, and the unique charm that Ascot is known for.

Moreover, properties in these areas are more likely to retain their value due to the consistent demand.

On the contrary, there are areas in Ascot that might not be as advisable for property investment. These could be regions that are farther from the main amenities like shops, cafes, and schools, or areas that don’t have the same aesthetic appeal as the rest of Ascot.

While these areas might offer lower prices, they may not provide the same lifestyle benefits or investment potential as the more central or established parts of Ascot.

Here is a summary table to help you visualize better. If you need more detailed data and information, please check our property pack for Australia.

Area	Atmosphere	Property Types	Notable Features
Near Racecourse Road	Vibrant, Urban	Mix of Queenslanders and Apartments	Close to cafes, boutiques, lively lifestyle
Around Oriel Park	Tranquil, Family-Oriented	Spacious Detached Houses	Family-friendly, quieter, near a park
Emerging Areas	Varies	Potentially New Developments	Emerging hotspots, potential growth
Farther from Amenities	More Secluded	Varied, potentially less desirable	Lower prices, but less access to lifestyle benefits

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Is there a strong rental demand in Ascot?

In Ascot there's indeed a strong demand for rental properties, but the nature and demographics of this demand are quite specific.

Regarding the type of rental demand, Ascot predominantly sees a demand for long-term rentals. This is due to the suburb's family-friendly nature, its reputation as a prestigious area, and its proximity to key amenities and the Brisbane CBD.

Short-term rentals do exist, but they're more niche, often catering to visitors or those in Brisbane for short-term work assignments.

The target demographic for rentals in Ascot is quite diverse. This includes professionals who work in the Brisbane CBD and appreciate the suburb's close proximity to the city. These individuals often seek modern apartments or smaller Queenslanders that offer both comfort and convenience.

Families are another significant demographic. They are typically drawn to Ascot for its reputable schools, such as Ascot State School and St. Margaret’s Anglican Girls School, and its safe, community-oriented environment. For them, larger Queenslanders or homes with ample space and a garden are highly sought after.

In terms of the specific profiles of potential tenants, we're looking at a mix of young professionals, small families, and in some cases, retirees who value the tranquility and prestige of Ascot. These groups generally look for well-maintained properties that blend traditional charm with modern amenities.

As for specific areas within Ascot, the demand is usually higher near Racecourse Road and around Oriel Park. Racecourse Road is popular due to its vibrant lifestyle and proximity to cafes, shops, and public transport, making it ideal for young professionals and small families.

In contrast, the Oriel Park area, known for its serene environment, tends to attract families and older tenants who prioritize a quiet, residential setting.

Properties with certain amenities can help reduce vacancy rates. This includes features like secure parking, modern kitchens and bathrooms, air conditioning, and outdoor spaces. These amenities are crucial in Ascot, where tenants often look for a blend of comfort and luxury.

When it comes to potential returns on investment, properties in Ascot can be quite lucrative, though specific numbers can vary. Given the suburb's desirability, well-positioned and well-maintained properties can command strong rental yields.

While I can't provide exact figures without current market data, it's safe to say that properties in prime locations with the aforementioned amenities are likely to yield better returns.

Recently, there's been a growing demand for certain types of properties in Ascot. Modern, low-maintenance apartments are increasingly popular among young professionals, while spacious, family-friendly homes continue to attract families.

These properties, especially if located in desirable areas like near Racecourse Road or Oriel Park, could potentially offer better yields due to their high demand and the demographic they appeal to.

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Is it easy to buy a property as foreigner in Ascot?

Before we answer the question, please know that we have an article dedicated to the experience of buying real estate as a foreigner in Australia.

Buying property in Ascot, Brisbane as a foreigner is feasible, but it's important to be aware of specific regulations, potential risks, and the general purchasing process in Australia.

Firstly, foreign buyers in Australia are subject to certain regulations. The Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB) requires foreign nationals to obtain approval before purchasing real estate in Australia. This process includes a review to ensure the investment aligns with Australian interests.

Typically, foreign buyers are allowed to purchase new properties or vacant land for development but buying existing residential properties can be more restrictive.

The purchasing process in Ascot for foreigners generally follows the standard Australian property buying procedure. It involves searching for a property, securing financing (if required), making an offer, and going through a legal process that includes property inspection, contract review, and settlement. The process can be complex, especially for those unfamiliar with the Australian real estate market.

One primary risk associated with property investment in Ascot, especially for foreigners, is the fluctuation in the real estate market. Property values can fluctuate due to various factors like changes in the economy, interest rates, and government policies.

Common pitfalls for foreign buyers include underestimating the total cost of purchasing, which includes stamp duty, legal fees, inspection costs, and FIRB application fees.

Additionally, there’s a risk of overlooking local market conditions and trends unique to the Australian and specifically Brisbane market.

Working with a local real estate agent or lawyer is highly advisable. They can provide valuable insights into the Ascot property market, help navigate the legalities, and ensure compliance with FIRB regulations and local laws.

They also assist in understanding the local market trends and property valuation, crucial for making an informed decision.

Common exit strategies for property investors in Ascot include selling the property for capital gain or renting it out for ongoing income. Due to Ascot’s desirability, properties here can potentially offer good capital growth over time.

However, it's important to consider market conditions and potential changes in regulations affecting foreign owners when planning an exit.