Is buying a property in Merewether a good investment?

Last updated on December 20, 2023

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

If you've relished the beachfront beauty and coastal charm of Merewether, you may have considered making this picturesque Newcastle suburb your serene and idyllic coastal retreat.

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 Merewether?

Merewether, a suburb of Newcastle, has steadily risen as a coveted location for property buyers, and there are several reasons behind its popularity.

Firstly, let's talk about the unique attributes that set Merewether apart from other real estate markets. Known for its stunning beaches, including the famous Merewether Beach, the suburb offers a lifestyle that is both relaxed and vibrant.

The beach, a renowned surfing destination, adds a unique charm that you might not find in other areas of Newcastle.

In comparison to other areas in Newcastle, Merewether stands out for its blend of natural beauty and urban convenience. It's not just about the beach; the suburb also boasts beautiful parks and a strong sense of community. This combination is somewhat rare, making it a unique proposition in the real estate market.

Its rise in popularity can be traced back to the early 2000s. This surge was fueled by an increasing desire for coastal living, coupled with the development of high-quality housing and local amenities.

As for whether this hype will remain, current trends suggest it will. The allure of beachside living, combined with the ongoing development and improvement of local facilities, continues to draw buyers to the area.

The type of people attracted to Merewether is quite diverse. You'll find young professionals drawn by the modern lifestyle, families who appreciate the open spaces and schools, and retirees who enjoy the peaceful yet vibrant environment. This diversity is one of Merewether's strengths, as it creates a dynamic community.

However, every location has its drawbacks, and Merewether is no exception. One potential weakness is the cost. Property prices in Merewether are generally higher than in many other parts of Newcastle, making it less accessible for some buyers.

Additionally, the popularity of the area can lead to issues like congestion, especially during peak tourist seasons when the beaches and local attractions draw large crowds.

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Why is Merewether a nice place to live?

Merewether is often celebrated as a great place to live, thanks to its unique lifestyle and culture.

Here, you'll find a relaxed coastal vibe blended with urban sophistication. The community is welcoming, characterized by a laid-back beach culture that's both refreshing and invigorating.

Whether you're into surfing, enjoying a coffee at a local cafe, or simply taking a stroll along the stunning coastline, Merewether offers a lifestyle that's hard to beat.

When it comes to the expat community, Merewether is quite accommodating. Though it's not known as a major expat hub like some other Australian cities, it does have a friendly and inclusive atmosphere that makes newcomers feel at home. This is especially true in local cafes and community events, where people from all walks of life come together.

Living in Merewether does come with a cost. It's one of the more upscale suburbs in Newcastle, with property prices reflecting its desirability. This means that for some, it might be on the pricier side, especially when it comes to real estate.

However, when you factor in the quality of life and the amenities on offer, many find it worth the investment.

Safety is a key consideration, and Merewether ranks well in this regard. It's generally considered a safe and family-friendly area, with a low crime rate compared to more urbanized centers. This sense of safety adds to its appeal for families and those looking for a peaceful living environment.

In terms of amenities, Merewether doesn't disappoint. Educational needs are well catered for with schools like Merewether Heights Public School and Merewether High School. Healthcare facilities are also within easy reach, with John Hunter Hospital and Lingard Private Hospital serving the community.

For shopping and leisure, Westfield Kotara and Junction Fair Shopping Centre are popular destinations, offering a variety of retail and dining options.

The infrastructure in Merewether is robust, with well-maintained roads, reliable utilities, and good internet connectivity. This makes everyday living convenient and comfortable, whether you're working from home or commuting.

Speaking of commuting, accessibility is a strong point for Merewether. It's well-connected to other parts of Newcastle, making it easy to get around whether you're driving or using public transport. The suburb is serviced by bus routes, facilitating easy access to the city center and surrounding areas.

Additionally, it's not too far from major transport hubs like Newcastle Airport, making travel in and out of the area quite straightforward.

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

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.

When it comes to buying property in Merewether the market offers a variety of options, each appealing to different types of buyers.

The area is known for its diverse residential properties, including apartments, standalone houses, and more luxurious villas. This variety caters to a wide range of preferences and budgets, making Merewether a versatile choice for property seekers.

The types of properties that are particularly in high demand in Merewether are those that offer coastal views or proximity to the beach. Properties with ocean views or those situated close to the shoreline are especially sought after.

This demand is driven largely by the suburb's reputation as a picturesque, beachside locale, making it attractive for both residents and investors who value the unique lifestyle that comes with living near the sea.

In terms of property offerings, Merewether has a mix of both new developments and resale properties. While there is a significant number of established homes, recent years have seen the development of modern apartments and renovated houses, adding a contemporary touch to the suburb's housing landscape.

Now, talking about the price range, properties in Merewether can vary significantly in cost. Generally, the price per square meter tends to be higher than in many other Newcastle suburbs, reflecting Merewether's desirability and coastal location.

For a more specific idea, prices can range from moderately high for smaller apartments to quite substantial for larger, more luxurious homes or those with ocean views.

Over recent years, property values in Merewether have shown a trend of steady growth. This increase is attributed to its continuing popularity, the general market trend in Newcastle, and the suburb's ongoing development and enhancement.

Looking ahead, there are several factors that could influence the real estate market in Merewether. Any upcoming developments or city planning changes, such as improvements to local amenities or infrastructure, could potentially impact property values.

For instance, developments that enhance the suburb's connectivity to other parts of Newcastle or upgrades to local facilities could make the area even more attractive to prospective buyers.

In terms of predictions for the coming years, the Merewether real estate market shows potential for continued growth.

Factors like its coastal appeal, the ongoing demand for properties near the beach, and the general trend towards investing in lifestyle-oriented locations suggest that Merewether will remain a sought-after area.

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

Finding the best area to buy a property in Merewether depends largely on what you're looking for in terms of atmosphere, property types, and budget.

Merewether is a suburb with diverse areas, each offering its own unique charm and character.

Firstly, if you're drawn to the beach lifestyle, the areas closest to Merewether Beach are highly coveted. This part of Merewether is known for its vibrant atmosphere, with easy access to the beach, cafes, and restaurants.

The properties here mainly consist of modern apartments and renovated houses, many offering stunning ocean views. However, this desirability is reflected in the prices, which are typically higher in these beachfront areas.

Another area worth considering is around Merewether Heights. This area offers a more tranquil setting, with larger, family-oriented homes, often with generous gardens. It's a bit more removed from the hustle and bustle of the beachfront but still close enough to enjoy all the amenities. The prices here can be more moderate compared to properties right on the coast.

For buyers looking for up-and-coming areas within Merewether, it's worth keeping an eye on the sections that are currently undergoing development. These areas might offer more competitive prices now, with the potential for growth in the future.

However, it's important to be aware that with new developments, there might be ongoing construction and a period before the area fully establishes its identity and community feel.

If you're considering where to buy, focus on areas that align with your lifestyle needs and investment goals. For a lively, beach-centric lifestyle, properties near Merewether Beach are ideal. For a more family-oriented, quieter setting, look towards Merewether Heights.

On the contrary, there are areas that might not be as advisable for certain buyers. Areas that are further inland, away from the beach and main amenities, might not offer the quintessential Merewether lifestyle that attracts many to the suburb.

Additionally, these areas might not experience the same level of property value growth as those closer to the beach or main attractions.

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	Price Range
Near Merewether Beach	Vibrant, beachfront	Modern apartments, renovated houses	High
Merewether Heights	Tranquil, family-oriented	Larger homes with gardens	Moderate
Up-and-coming areas	Varies, under development	Mixed, potential new developments	Varies, potentially more competitive
Further inland areas	More removed from beach amenities	Varies	Potentially lower

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Is there a strong rental demand in Merewether?

Merewether is indeed an area with a strong rental demand, and this is influenced by several factors including location, property type, and the demographic of potential tenants.

Firstly, the demand for rentals in Merewether is balanced between short-term and long-term rentals, each catering to different needs. Short-term rentals are particularly popular due to the suburb's coastal location and attractiveness to tourists and visitors, especially during summer and holiday seasons.

On the other hand, the demand for long-term rentals is driven by professionals, families, and retirees who are attracted to the lifestyle that Merewether offers.

The target demographic for rentals in Merewether is quite diverse. For short-term rentals, the typical tenants are tourists, holidaymakers, and business travelers who are drawn to the area for its beaches, cafes, and relaxed coastal vibe.

These renters usually look for properties that offer convenience and a taste of the beachside lifestyle, such as modern apartments or houses with easy access to the beach and local amenities.

For long-term rentals, the tenant profile includes young professionals, families, and some retirees. Young professionals are often attracted to modern, low-maintenance apartments close to public transport, cafes, and entertainment options.

Families tend to look for larger homes with more living space, preferably close to schools and parks. Retirees usually seek out comfortable, accessible properties in quieter parts of the suburb.

Specific areas in Merewether that are particularly attractive for rentals include the vicinity around Merewether Beach for short-term rentals due to its tourist appeal, and Merewether Heights for long-term rentals, where there's a more residential and family-friendly atmosphere.

Regarding amenities that can help reduce vacancy, properties that offer parking facilities, modern conveniences (like updated kitchens and bathrooms), and proximity to key attractions (like the beach, parks, and shopping areas) are more likely to be in constant demand. These amenities cater directly to the lifestyle aspirations of potential tenants, thereby making the property more attractive.

In terms of potential returns on investment, properties in Merewether can be quite lucrative, especially given the suburb's popularity and the steady demand for rentals. While specific numbers can vary, rental yields in desirable areas like beachfront locations or near major amenities can be higher due to their appeal.

Finally, the types of properties that are seeing increasing demand and could potentially offer better yields are those that align with the desires of the target demographics. Modern, well-located apartments are highly sought after by young professionals and short-term renters.

Meanwhile, spacious family homes are in demand among long-term renters like families. Properties that offer a combination of location, modern amenities, and lifestyle appeal are likely to see sustained or increased demand in the rental market of Merewether.

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

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 as a foreigner in Merewether, Newcastle, involves navigating specific regulations and understanding the local real estate market.

Firstly, Australia has certain regulations for foreign property buyers, which are overseen by the Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB). As a foreigner, you typically need to obtain FIRB approval before purchasing property in Australia.

This process involves submitting an application and paying a fee. The FIRB generally allows foreigners to purchase new properties or vacant land for development, but buying established dwellings (previously lived in) can be more restrictive.

These regulations are designed to ensure that foreign investment supports the Australian housing market and doesn’t detract from opportunities for local residents.

The purchasing process in Merewether, similar to other Australian locations, involves several steps. Once you've found a property you're interested in, you may need to bid at an auction or submit an offer for private sale.

If your offer is accepted, a contract of sale is drawn up. As a foreigner, it's crucial to have FIRB approval by this stage. Following this, there's a settlement period, during which legal and financial arrangements are finalized.

One primary risk associated with property investment in Merewether, as with any real estate investment, is market fluctuation. Property values can go up or down based on various factors, including economic conditions and changes in local demand.

Another risk, particularly relevant to foreigners, is the potential for regulatory changes. Australian property laws, especially regarding foreign ownership, can evolve, which might affect your investment.

There are classic pitfalls or common mistakes that people, particularly foreigners, face when buying property in Australia. One unique aspect is the prevalence of auctions in the Australian real estate market.

Bidding at auctions requires a different strategy compared to standard real estate transactions, and it's easy for inexperienced buyers to either overpay or miss out on a property due to unfamiliarity with the process.

Working with a local real estate agent or lawyer is highly important, especially for foreign buyers. Local experts can provide valuable insights into the Merewether market, assist with navigating the FIRB process, and ensure compliance with Australian property laws. They can also guide you through the auction process and help negotiate private sales.

Common exit strategies for property investors in Merewether include selling the property for capital gain or holding it to earn rental income. The choice of strategy should align with your overall investment goals and market conditions.