When people think of the Northern Beaches peninsula, they immediately envision sparkling water and warm sands. But if you step outside that preconceived notion, you will find the area has far more to offer than sand and sea.
Most real estate agents focus on a beachfront property because of its high demand and value. However, there are advantages and disadvantages to living so close to a popular local and tourist destination. If you live closer to the beach, you’re unlikely to find a home with a water view. Even if you can find a property ‘on the flat’ with a water view, you’ll learn that water views up close bring a major downside to living so close: busy roads.
It is still possible to live within easy distance of the beach without the disturbance of traffic commotion and all other drawbacks. Looking toward the gumtrees is an excellent alternative and we thought we’d share shat we love about our suburb.
The value of a hillside location
Living beachside is all very well, but there can be downsides like the traffic, or the damage the salty air can do to vehicles and property. A hillside location is an option worth considering and many real estate agents understand its value.
At JDH, we’ve found hillside properties are priced more realistically than those found on the beachfront. The pace of life is also a bit slower, which many of us appreciate, considering how hectic our daily lives can be.
Other perks include:
Treetop views and value. One the Northern Beaches hillsides, we get the full benefit of cool sea breezes among the treetops. That is not the only plus. Many of our hillside homes are blessed with amazing views that will cost you a fraction of what a beachfront view would cost. Best of all, a great view helps houses appreciate in value. Unobstructed water views can add between 30 per cent and 80 per cent value to a property.
Plenty of space. Beachfront properties tend to be situated close together, which makes maintaining your privacy a bit more difficult. On the hillside, properties come with decent-sized gardens and outdoor living space. Fancy owning a pool? There is usually plenty of room for one. Land and buildings tend to be more generously sized than by the beach.
Close to the beaches
Allambie Heights is a bit off the beaten track but offers easy access to the Warringah Road that joins all major routes into the city. It is not a major thoroughfare, so homeowners can enjoy the peace and quiet and increased privacy there.
Its proximity to the Northern Beaches is not the only plus to living in Allambie Heights and nearby suburbs. We’re right next to Warringah Mall, the biggest shopping centre on the Northern Beaches.
Residents who love the outdoor life are spoiled for choice. Manly Dam just nearby is ideal for walks, picnics, and water sports. There are plenty of dog walking areas (where you’re likely to meet every other dog owner in the neighbourhood) and cycle tracks. There is truly something for everyone to enjoy. There are four main beach suburbs: Dee Why, Curl Curl, Freshwater, and Queenscliff. Residents don’t have to travel far for entertainment or a great meal. Dee Why features a fantastic RSL with trendy bars, restaurants, and quiz nights.
Rightsizing your real estate needs
During the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, properties weren’t moving as Australians hunkered down. With the mortgage crunch behind us and the easing of lending restrictions, areas like Allambie Heights, Oxford Falls and North Balgowlah are increasing in popularity.
With many companies continuing to keep workers home through 2021, city dwellers are interested in buying a property with better access to the beaches. Plus, the latest federal budget means upsizers and downsizers will benefit the most from the proposed changes to responsible lending. Now is a great time to consider rightsizing your residential needs to one of these fantastic locations.
A final word on the hillside
At JDH Real Estate, we understand the value of living among the gumtrees. For the last 12 years, we’ve helped satisfied homebuyers rightsize their real estate needs. Phone us on 9451 5224 or enquire online to learn more about the benefits of owning a home on the hillside.