Trends, Hotspots & Local Insights for First-Home Buyers and Investors
Thinking about buying property on the Central Coast in 2025? Whether you’re a first-home buyer ready to step into the market or an investor looking to expand your portfolio, the Coast offers plenty of opportunity – but also some unique considerations.
As local mortgage brokers who live and work right here on the Central Coast, we’ve put together this practical guide to help you make informed decisions and maximise your property journey this year.
Why the Central Coast?
The Central Coast continues to shine as one of NSW’s most desirable lifestyle regions – blending relaxed coastal living with growing infrastructure, good schools, and increasing connectivity to Sydney and Newcastle.
Key benefits for buyers:
- More affordable than Sydney suburbs
- Strong long-term capital growth
- Quality schools, nature, and a family-friendly vibe
- Continued investment in transport and community infrastructure
Whether you’re looking at beachside suburbs, semi-rural acreage, or growing family neighbourhoods, there’s something for everyone.
2025 Property Market Trends
The market has shifted over the past 12 months, and here’s what we’re seeing in 2025:
- Stabilised Interest Rates – After several RBA hikes in 2022–2023, rates have settled, giving buyers more predictability when budgeting. Pre-approvals are still a must, but we’re seeing more competition from confident buyers.
- Increased Demand in Affordable Growth Areas – With affordability still a key concern, buyers are focusing on emerging suburbs that offer value, potential, and lifestyle.
- Investors Returning – With rents still strong and vacancy rates low across much of the Coast, investors are making a comeback – particularly in dual-income properties or those with granny flat potential.
2025 Suburb Hotspots to Watch
Here are some standout Central Coast suburbs to keep an eye on this year:
🏡 Wadalba & Woongarrah
Family-oriented with good access to schools, shops, and transport. New housing developments offer great entry points for first-home buyers.
🌿 Hamlyn Terrace & Warnervale
Major infrastructure upgrades, including the Warnervale town centre plans, make this a strategic choice for investors.
🌊 Bateau Bay & Long Jetty
For those looking for lifestyle and capital growth, these coastal pockets have charm, established homes, and strong rental demand.
🌳 Ourimbah & Lisarow
Popular with commuters due to easy access to the M1 and train stations. Ideal for buyers who want space but still need to be connected.
Tips for First-Home Buyers
Buying your first home can feel overwhelming – but it doesn’t have to be. Here’s what we recommend:
✔ Get Pre-Approved Early – Knowing your budget gives you confidence and credibility.
✔ Look Into First-Home Buyer Grants & Schemes – There are several government supports still available in 2025, including stamp duty exemptions and shared equity schemes.
✔ Stay Realistic, but Don’t Settle – Be clear on your “must-haves” vs “nice-to-haves” to help narrow your search.
✔ Lean on Local Experts – A good local broker (like us!) can guide you through every step – from finance to settlement.
What Investors Should Consider
Property investment is a long game. In 2025, smart investors are:
- Focusing on yield-positive properties to counterbalance higher interest rates
- Exploring renovation potential or secondary dwellings to boost returns
- Looking at up-and-coming suburbs with growth in infrastructure, population, and demand
- Working with local professionals to stay on top of zoning changes, rental trends, and loan structuring
How CoastFin Can Help
At CoastFin, we’re more than just mortgage brokers – we’re locals who genuinely care about helping you succeed. Whether you’re buying your first home, upgrading, or investing, we offer:
- Access to over 30 lenders to find the right loan for you
- Personalised advice based on your goals and circumstances
- Step-by-step support from pre-approval to settlement
- Insights based on real local market experience
Thinking about buying on the Central Coast in 2025?
We’d love to chat. Reach out today to book a free, no-obligation chat about your options, and let’s turn your property goals into reality.