© Property Professor articles — www.thepropertyprofessor.net.au.
Reproduced with permission.
Overview
Geelong is approximately one hour from the Melbourne CBD. The homes reflect the era when Geelong was first settled. It was established in the 1800’s as a regional centre and port for the western districts of Victoria. Hence there are many historical homes built in the 19th Century. These homes are mainly of weatherboard construction. The old wool stores near the sea front are slowly being converted to residential apartments or offices. Geelong is a lovely historical town with an ever-growing sea change and commuter population.
The Westfield Bay City Plaza is the largest shopping centre in the district. The schools in this suburb cater for primary and high school students, seeking a private or public education. The highly regarded Geelong Grammar School is to the north in Corio. The Geelong Campus of Deakin University and Gordon Institute of TAFE are located here. Access to the city is relatively easy via the train. At certain times of the day there are express trains which run non-stop between Melbourne and Geelong, taking less than hour to reach Southern Cross (Spencer St) Station. Buses also service Geelong. Geelong Hospital is located in the heart of the town. The home ground of the Geelong Football Club, Kardinia Park, is in adjacent Geelong South.
Why you should buy here
- It is a relatively cheap sea side location
- Popular with retirees or those hoping to retire in the near future.
- Becoming more and more popular with commuters; people who love the life by the sea and away from the hustle and bustle of the city but are willing to travel to and from the city for their 9 to 5 job.
- With the many historical homes in the area, such as villas and bungalows, the renovation opportunities are endless.
- It is a nominated Central Activity Area (part of the new Melbourne Metropolitan Planning Strategy). This ensures that state government money will be spent in this area to upgrade facilities and infrastructure, especially near transport hubs.
Areas to focus on
The closer you are to the beach, the better off you will be if you hoping for substantial capital growth. Eastern Park, which houses the Botanical Gardens, is a picturesque area to be near or overlook.
Areas to avoid
Living on a main road is not highly regarded by owner occupiers. Neither is living too close to the railway line.
Happy House Hunting!
• Written by Peter Koulizos, university lecturer, author and property advocate.