The Southern Highlands has experienced a vibrant and eventful year in 2024, marked by community celebrations, cultural enrichment, and significant movements in the real estate market. From stunning festivals to shifts in property trends, the region has continued to captivate residents and visitors alike. Here’s a look back at some of the key highlights from this year.
The Southern Highlands continued its tradition of hosting diverse and engaging events that brought the community together and attracted visitors from far and wide.
One of the standout events of 2024, the Tulip Time Festival, took place from September 12 to 30. This much-loved spring celebration featured dazzling tulip displays that brightened the Corbett Gardens in Bowral and other parts of the Highlands. Thousands of attendees marveled at the vibrant colors and participated in live music, market stalls, and family-friendly activities. The festival once again highlighted the region's natural beauty and horticultural heritage.
In November, Mittagong’s streets came alive with the Kaleidoscope Festival, a one-day extravaganza as part of the NSW Government’s Open Streets Program. This community-focused event featured live performances, captivating art installations, and engaging activities for all age groups. It was a fantastic showcase of the Highlands' creative talent and cultural diversity.
From November 22 to 24, the Bundanoon Folk Festival delighted music lovers with a weekend of folk performances, workshops, and storytelling. Set in the charming village of Bundanoon, the event attracted visitors seeking an intimate and enriching cultural experience. The festival underscored the Southern Highlands’ reputation as a hub for the arts and creative expression.
2024 brought a mix of challenges and opportunities to the Southern Highlands property market. Despite some headwinds, the region has proven its resilience, with continued interest from buyers and investors.
The year saw rising interest rates that impacted borrowing costs, leading to more cautious buyer behavior. This adjustment tempered the rapid growth seen in previous years, resulting in more stable pricing in many areas. Properties priced appropriately continued to attract attention, but the overall pace of sales slowed as buyers became more discerning.
The Southern Highlands has remained a desirable location for those seeking a lifestyle change. While some areas experienced mild price corrections, the overall market retained its appeal, particularly for buyers looking for a blend of natural beauty and convenience. The region's proximity to Sydney and Canberra ensures its continued popularity.
A growing trend in 2024 has been the increasing demand for sustainable and environmentally-conscious living. Buyers are showing a strong preference for homes designed with energy efficiency and sustainability in mind. One standout property in Burradoo—a contemporary eco-home built with passive design principles—attracted significant attention, listing for $2.95 million. This highlights a shift towards more eco-friendly housing in the Highlands.
As 2024 draws to a close, the Southern Highlands community looks forward to the coming year with optimism. The region is expected to host even more exciting events and continue adapting to changing market dynamics.
For the real estate market, the focus will remain on meeting buyer preferences, including sustainable living and unique lifestyle offerings. As the holiday season approaches, securing quality tenants and buyers remains a priority for property owners to ensure stable returns in the new year.
First National Real Estate Moss Vale is committed to staying at the forefront of these changes, offering expert advice and services to help clients navigate the evolving market landscape. Whether you’re buying, selling, or renting, we’re here to help you make the most of your property journey in the Southern Highlands.
2024 has been a remarkable year for the Southern Highlands, filled with cultural richness and new opportunities. Whether you attended the Tulip Time Festival, enjoyed the Kaleidoscope celebrations, or explored the evolving property market, there’s no doubt the region continues to thrive as a sought-after destination and community.
We look forward to seeing what 2025 has in store for this vibrant region!
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The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. Readers are advised to seek independent advice from qualified professionals regarding their individual circumstances. First National Real Estate Moss Vale does not accept any responsibility for any loss which may arise from reliance on information contained in this blog post.