First time investors reap rewards in Logan Market

Lauren and Tyson Halliwell, with their kids Ethan Halliwell 6yrs, Jamie Halliwell 5yrs, have just moved into their new Park Ridge home while becoming investors, deciding keep their first home in Logan, Park Ridge South, on Tuesday 16th April 2024 – Photo Steve Pohlner

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Logan couple Lauren and Tyson Halliwell have plunged into the investment market for the first time after renting out their first home in Logan Reserve.

Logan Reserve has seen a 5.4 per cent growth over the last 12 months, with the median house price in the area at $643,000.

“Turning the home into an investment was a no-brainer,” Mrs Halliwell said.

“We purchased the home just as Covid hit, and within three years, it has nearly doubled in price. Three new estates have gone up in the area, and a new Woolies has just gone up.”

“If we sold it now, we wouldn’t be taking advantage of the gains that will come with the home over the next five to ten years.”

Mrs Halliwell said investment was always on the cards for her before plunging into the property market.

“We want more than one investment property; it is quite hard at the moment to make income for that. So I’m glad we made the choices we made when we did,” she said.

“Looking into the future, my husband and I don’t want to work into our 70s because we’ve been working since we were old enough. So this is definitely a strong plan for us.”

The couple has since moved into a new home in Park Ridge with their young children Ethan, 6 and Jamie, 5.

Business Development Manager from Ray White Daisy Hill, Tiana Etri, said Logan stands out as one of the most affordable municipalities due to a combination of factors.

“Logan’s location within the greater Brisbane region offers residents accessibility to urban amenities without the hefty price tag often associated with city living,” Ms Etri said.

“Logan also benefits from a diverse housing market, providing options ranging from affordable apartments to spacious family homes. This diversity in housing stock caters to a wide range of budgets and preferences, contributing to its affordability.

“The upward pressure on prices may eventually result in specific segments of the market becoming less accessible to first home buyers and investors with limited budgets.

Ms Etri said if demand continues to rise. At the same time, housing supply remains limited, which could lead to higher prices, potentially making it more challenging for some buyers to enter the market.

“If government policies, market fluctuations, and other factors can also influence affordability over time,” she said.

“It’s essential for buyers to stay informed about market trends and explore all available options to make informed decisions.”

PropTrack Senior Economist Paul Ryan said the Logan region was favourable for first-home buyers and investors due to larger block sizes, new builds and amenities.

“There is a natural life cycle of these affordable suburbs when they are new, they tend to be cheaper,” Mr Ryan said.

“As they age and new suburbs are built, people bring up their kids there and build in the suburb’s character and identity.

“When the suburb ages, amenities, transport links, shopping opportunities, schools and hospital links continue over time, and that develops when the area grows.”