Between sparkling coastline and scenic mountains, with excellent amenities and only 90 minutes from Sydney, Wollongong is equal parts beauty and convenience.
There’s a lot to love about the regional city of Wollongong, including its scenic charm, laidback lifestyle and friendly residents.
"The sense of community that you get around here and just the people who live here – they're very like-minded, chill, nice people,” says a Wollongong local. “It's a good area to live in.”
For many, though, the abundance of nature is the area’s biggest asset.
"We’ve got the coast, we’ve got the mountains. There's not many places you have that,” comments another local resident.
Given Wollongong’s prime positioning along the New South Wales south coast, the surrounding beaches are some of the best in the state.
They’re popular spots for swimming, water sports and surfing, and many homes are lucky enough to be within walking or short driving distance of the sea.
"I love being close to the ocean".
Beyond the natural attractions, Wollongong is a bustling satellite city filled with all the conveniences of a much larger metropolis.
Flagstaff Point in Wollongong is a gorgeous place to enjoy the ocean. Picture: Getty
There’s a sizeable selection of places to eat, drink, shop and relax, the amenities are top notch, and there are convenient public transport links to the Sydney CBD, including the train.
Plus, the city is very family-friendly due to its good schools, parks and sports facilities.
As Wollongong local 3 aptly articulates, living here is like being on a perpetual vacation – possibly even better.
"I go on holidays and always look forward to coming back," they say.
Thanks to its blend of natural and urban drawcards, that sense of attachment is shared by many.
"Wollongong is such a great place to live,” Amanda Fleming, Senior Mobile Relationship Manager at Bendigo Bank, says.
“Whatever you're into, whether that's surfing, fishing, visiting the wineries or even a waterfall, Wollongong really does have it all.”
Wollongong harbour is a local hotspot, being close to walking tracks, beaches, and the rock pools. Picture: Getty
Unsurprisingly, the city experienced a massive surge in popularity during the pandemic as more and more big city dwellers sought lifestyle and space over proximity to the CBD.
Median house prices between then and now have increased by an impressive 43%, according to PropTrack, but currently remain fairly stable.
"Property prices in Wollongong are doing well. We haven't seen a major increase or decrease in the median price in Wollongong," Jennifer McCormack, Property Partner at The Agency – Wollongong, says.
She adds that competition is reasonably strong and properties are being snapped up, so moving quickly is a must – and the upcoming warmer months could be your best chance to secure a home.
"We are still seeing great activity at open houses and properties are selling within 30 days,” Ms McCormack says.
“Now is a great time to buy property in Wollongong – as spring comes, we'll see a lot more stock on the market, giving buyers plenty of choice.”
If you’re keen to jump on the opportunity to get into the Wollongong market, Bendigo Bank can support your lending journey at every step of the way.
The bank offers expert local advice, handy tools like a free home loan health check, and a range of competitive home loans to suit different property goals.
“Bendigo Bank can help buyers purchase their dream home, fund an investment property or refinance for a better home loan deal," Ms Fleming says.
Wollongong Sea Cliff Bridge offers connectivity to the NSW South Coast in both directions. Picture: Getty
Lastly, she stresses the importance of going into the purchasing process with a thorough knowledge of your potential costs.
This way, you won’t be caught out by any surprises and will be able to buy your ideal Wollongong property with peace of mind.
"My top tips when purchasing in Wollongong would be to think about all of the costs involved – you've got your stamp duty, your legal fees and your insurance costs as well,” Ms Fleming says.
“That is what I'm here to help you with. I calculate all the costs and then I can tell you with confidence what your maximum purchase price is going to be.”
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