How to Make a Suburb Shortlist
When you're in the market for a new home, choosing the right suburb can be just as important as finding the perfect property. With around 500,000 residents calling Newcastle home, there is a wide range of diversity amongst its suburbs. Some inner-city suburbs are littered with high-rise apartment blocks while others (especially along the harbour) have an industrial feel. As you get into the mid and outer rings, average block sizes can range from 150m2 to over 700m2, depending on the location and suburb design.
Want to find out more about the best suburbs in Newcastle?
We've put together seven tips to assist you in making an informed decision when deciding if a suburb should make your buying shortlist.
1. School Zones
For families with school-aged children or those planning for the future, school zones are a crucial consideration. To find information about schools in a specific area, visit [School Finder](https://schoolfinder.education.nsw.gov.au/). Be sure to research the catchment zones and the quality of local educational facilities to ensure your children receive a top-notch education.
2. Flood Map Overlay
Newcastle is known for its beautiful coastline and proximity to water, but with that beauty comes the potential for flooding. Before making a decision, it's important to check the flood risk in your chosen suburb. The [Newcastle Flood Map Overlay](https://newcastle.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=4b08914a47d745099817e01a1ca439b2) can provide valuable information about flood-prone areas, helping you make an informed choice.
3. Public Parks
Access to green spaces is a significant quality-of-life factor. Two fantastic examples in Newcastle are Empire Park and Lambton Park. These parks offer recreational opportunities and a natural escape within the city. When choosing a suburb, consider its proximity to such amenities, as they can greatly enhance your lifestyle, and also add substantial prospects of future house price growth.
4. Proximity To Employment
The daily commute to work can have a substantial impact on your quality of life. A long, stressful commute can significantly affect your overall well-being. When evaluating a suburb, consider the commute time to your workplace. Suburbs close to the (CBD) or major employment hubs may offer shorter commutes and more convenience. On top of this, being situated close to a main arterial road such as Newcastle Road, City Road, Glebe Road or Bridges Road can have its advantages.
5. Local Stigma
Every suburb has its own reputation, and this can greatly affect your buying decision. Do some research on the reputation and local stigma attached to a particular area. Remember that these perceptions can change over time, and some suburbs are undergoing revitalization, offering great potential for investment. A great example is the mid-ring suburb group of Mayfield, Waratah and Georgetown. All three suburbs are experiencing a period of gentrification as other factors increase their desirability. This is slowly changing the demographics, and with it the stigma associated with these suburbs.
6. Public Transport Options
Newcastle's public transport system is constantly evolving, with a focus on improving accessibility. If you’re going to be relying heavily on public transport to move about the city, focusing on suburbs that are well connected will be key. To understand the public transport options available in a suburb you’re researching, visit [Newcastle Transport](https://www.newcastletransport.info/). Accessibility to buses, trains, and other public transportation can be a significant advantage, especially if you want to reduce your reliance on a car.
7. Dominant Property Type
Different suburbs often have distinct property types that cater to varying lifestyle preferences. Inner city suburbs are typically more densely populated, featuring apartments and townhouses. In contrast, middle and outer ring suburbs are likely to have more freestanding homes, often with larger yards. Dissecting that further, Lambton & New Lambton have an average block size of between 400-450m2 and naturally the dominant house configuration is a three bedroom and one or two bathroom cottage. Contrast this to the more modern outer suburbs of Fletcher & Cameron Park where block sizes are 600m2+ and the dominant configuration is four bedrooms and two bathrooms. Consider your living preferences and what type of property aligns with your lifestyle.
In conclusion, buying a home in Newcastle involves much more than just the property itself. Your choice of suburb plays a crucial role in your overall quality of life. Take the time to research and visit potential suburbs, talk to locals, and consider speaking a local Buyers Agent for advice. A well-informed decision about the right suburb can ensure you find the perfect place to call home in the beautiful city of Newcastle, Australia.
