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Anthony Di Nardo, Principal of Belle Property Newcastle, Hunter Valley and Cessnock recently broke the record for the highest sale in Warners Bay in NSW, the week after breaking the record in Speers Point, NSW with a sale of more than $2.7 million.

Demand is through the roof when it comes to the Lake Macquarie and Hunter Valley region, and Anthony says it’s down to a few factors.

The demand for lifestyle property

“Since COVID-19 hit, people are realising they can work effectively from home, instead of having to drive into an office every day. We have seen this impact the kind of homes people want to live in; being drawn to more lifestyle locations,” says Anthony.

“We are lucky in our area as Lake Macquarie, Cessnock and the Hunter Valley offer a unique coast and country lifestyle which people are attracted to, especially if they’re planning on spending more time at home.”

Smart and savvy marketing

“While lifestyle needs are certainly driving demand, there has always been significant interest in high-quality architecturally designed homes around the lake, especially if the property has water views to match,” says Anthony.

“These properties are usually very tightly held and don’t come on to the market often, so our approach is to find the perfect buyers and work closely with them. The marketing of our properties certainly does make them stand out. We carefully target our of area buyers and reach them using market-leading strategies including video, drone photography, print advertising, virtual tours, property boards, social media and our own Sitchu Living magazine.”

Hard work, while competitors rest

“This current climate has proven that success is truly is about mindset in business. As we speak, we are having the best month across our three offices. Our team made the collective decision not to take the foot off the pedal, and we have come through better for it,” says Anthony.

“While other local agencies have treated this time like a holiday, we have pushed through. When we couldn’t do open homes, we doubled and tripled our private appointments. When we couldn’t have in-office meetings, we turned to Facetime and Zoom to keep our client relationships strong. It was absolutely worth the extra hours.”

What should buyers and sellers know?

As for his advice to buyers and sellers during this time, for sellers, there is still a genuine shortage of listings, and prices are not being impacted by COVID-19.

“With shortage, comes strong competition, so now is a great time to get your property on the market,” he says.

“To buyers, my advice is to act quickly. Get your finance organised, and when you find the property that ticks your boxes, don’t wait and see. Competition is fierce, so go in strong and secure your dream home.”

For more information about the advantages of buying and selling during winter, read our blog or reach out to your local Belle Property agent or office.