3 Places To Invest Under $300k

Australia is made up of hundreds of property markets throughout this diverse nation. The concept of boarder-less investing opens us up to a range of opportunities all over the country. Whether purchasing with the assistance of a buyers agent or taking on a DIY approach, there really is no excuse for not exploring options outside that of your own "backyard". I'm often told it is impossible to find decent property under $300k. This is entirely untrue. There are excellent regions with affordable housing right throughout Australia. These are not "small" towns with one main street and a pub like many people expect. These are diverse, bustling cities with excellent infrastructure and all the requirements for long term growth and returns. For this exercise I thought I'd focus on 3 locations that tick numerous investment boxes. All 3 locations have a population of 100 000+ people, diverse economies and we are focusing solely on house only with decent land content.

Ipswich

Ipswich city is located approximately 40kms West of Brisbane CBD and has a population of approximately 200 000 people. Ipswich is an area which is set to benefit from significant population growth and government infrastructure spending. The population is set to double over the next 10 years and $38 billion is being invested in community services, health, transport and education. There is a $1.5 billion expansion of Amberley RAAF base and significant redevelopment of Ipswich CBD. Originally built on coal mining, the city has now diversified into a thriving economy with education, health and defence at its forefront. Quality homes can still be purchased on large blocks with good rental returns. All this and under an hour drive to Brisbane.

This 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom home sold April 2020 in Raceview (Ipswich) for $299, 990. Rental is approx $350pw.

Ballarat

Ballarat is located approximately 100kms NW of Melbourne. Population is approximately 107 000 people. Originally built off gold mining it is now a popular tourist destination with significant service industries such as health care, government agencies, retail trades and education. Large scale developments are underway including a $100 million Government office hub in the CBD. The city is also undertaking significant upgrades to its sporting facilities in order to attract major draw card events. Ballarat is a 1 hour train trip from Melbourne CBD. Not exactly a small isolated place like some expect..

This 3 bedroom 2 bathroom home in Sebastopol (Ballarat) sold for $285 000 in Feb 2020.

Townsville

Townsville is located in North Queensland and has a population of approximately 190 000 people. It has a diverse economy built on tourism, mining, education, healthcare, defence and government agencies. It is well served with a major hospital, university campus, army barracks and large scale airport. The city is currently undergoing a major upgrade. Significant infrastructure such as the recently completed $240 million stadium and waterfront development which includes a large scale esplanade filled with shops, cafes, clubs and pubs. There are numerous options for housing well under $300k with excellent rental returns.

This 4 bedroom home in Kirwan (Townsville) was sold in April 2020 for $277 500. Property would rent for $350 and is on 717m2.

The idea that affordable locations to invest in property are long gone is bollocks! Think outside the square and take the blinkers off.

- The Tattooed Investor