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Now more than ever, Australians living in cities are considering a move towards regional areas, seeking the lifestyle that smaller communities and more space can offer.

Whether it’s relocating or investing in holiday properties, Domain reports that regional property markets have significantly outperformed metropolitan markets on average over the past year – with housing affordability and work-life balance among the most appealing factors.

Breaking their office sales record with 30 unconditional sales in July, Belle Property Daylesford’s Co-Principal Director Will Walton explains the secret ingredients to his team's success amid Victorian restrictions and an impending economic downtown.

“Usually, we see up to 70 per cent of our buyers from out-of-area, keen to purchase weekenders or holiday rental investments.

“However, since the pandemic began, our region's popularity across search engines has skyrocketed, with more than 90 per cent of buyers now from metropolitan postcodes,” says Will.

Although buyers are actively looking at regional areas, Will knows that the team at Belle Property Daylesford’s success is the result of one thing.

“Up 350% from regular monthly sales and many of our team recording personal best results, our success really comes down to relating with our buyers and vendors on a personal level,” says Will.

“Whether it’s our association and sponsorship of a number of local community groups and events, our interaction on social media or our close relationships with locals, we strive to connect with our community and keep our brand front of mind.”

CEO of Belle Property and Hockingstuart Peter Hanscomb said these results are particularly impressive considering the challenging nature of the Victorian market.

“What Belle Property Daylesford was able to still achieve under the current restrictions is a prime example of how agile our agents and wider organisation is in delivering premium outcome for buyers and vendors both face-to-face and virtually,” said Peter.

Just over an hour drive to Melbourne’s CBD, Daylesford and its surrounding areas are an idyllic location to relocate to, with an easy commute to the city, affordable living, great local schools, and a bustling community, Will explains.

“With so much to do and see in the area, potential buyers are able to holiday and sample the region themselves prior to buying. For us, it is easy to sell property in our location as often it really sells itself.”

When it comes to Will’s advice to potential buyers who are looking to make the move to a regional area.

“Our advice to buyers looking for their dream home, holiday or investment property in regional areas, is to do your homework. Make sure you know what your money can buy in the area as that will set your price guide,” he says.

“Visit the area and drive around to find suburbs that meet your needs. For example, the Daylesford and Hepburn Shire encompasses some lovely hamlets and towns that each offer something different. Whether you want to be close to shops or schools, or are looking for privacy, there’s going to be somewhere that will suit your lifestyle.”

To get the full insider’s look into Daylesford and its surrounds, read Sitchu’s guide to the humble oasis of Daylesford.

For more information on buying, head to our blog for more tips and advice or contact your local Belle Property agent or office.