Are you considering a tree change and dreaming of more space, fresh air, and a slower pace of life? More Australians are exploring tree change homes in regional areas as a way to escape soaring city property prices. With median home values in our capital cities surpassing $1 million, moving to a regional location can be a smart financial and lifestyle decision.
Why Tree Change Homes Are Becoming More Popular Across Australia
In recent years, the trend of relocating from capital cities to regional areas commonly known as a tree change or seachange has been growing steadily. The latest Regional Movers Index shows that moves from metropolitan hubs to regional towns now outpace moves in the opposite direction. For many Australians, especially younger generations like Gen Z, the appeal is not just lifestyle, but affordability.
Recent research from CommBank found that more than 5.3 million Australians, roughly 37% of city dwellers, are considering a tree change. Among Gen Z, nearly half are open to regional living. For Gen Xers (born 1965–1980), the lure is even stronger, with one in two citing more affordable housing as a key reason to consider a tree change home.
Tree Change Homes Offer Significant Savings Compared to City Living
There’s no doubt that tree change homes can offer substantial financial benefits. Median home prices across Australia’s combined capitals currently sit at $1,002,520. By contrast, regional areas have a median home value of just $743,672—a difference of $258,848.
This price gap isn’t just a number on paper. Lower property prices mean reduced stamp duty, smaller deposits, and more manageable home loans. First home buyers may find they can afford a full house rather than a cramped apartment, while those looking to upgrade can secure larger, more desirable properties.
Furthermore, borrowing less can translate to lower monthly repayments, freeing up funds for lifestyle upgrades, renovations, or investment opportunities.
Do Tree Change Homes Grow in Value?
One common myth is that regional properties don’t appreciate like city homes. In reality, regional tree change homes have experienced strong growth. According to Cotality, regional home values rose 10.3% over the past year, slightly outpacing the 9.2% growth in state capitals.
Over the last five years, regional properties have climbed 57.4%, compared to 42.8% across major cities. This reflects a long-term trend of migration away from urban centers and into regional towns.
So, choosing a tree change home doesn’t just offer lifestyle benefits—it can also be a smart financial move.
Employment and Home Loan Considerations for Tree Change Buyers
Before taking the plunge into a tree change home, it’s crucial to understand how it may affect your finances and home loan eligibility.
Many regional areas have thriving job markets, but it’s essential to check opportunities in your field. However, not everyone needs to change jobs. The Regional Australia Institute reports that 47% of city dwellers planning a regional move intend to stay in their current role remotely or via hybrid arrangements.
Stable employment is a key factor for home loan approval, so discussing your work situation with a mortgage broker is a smart first step. The good news is that, aside from employment considerations, applying for a home loan for a regional property is similar to buying in the city.
Tips for Choosing the Right Tree Change Home
- Research the Local Market: Prices, growth trends, and community amenities can vary widely across regional areas.
- Consider Your Lifestyle Needs: Proximity to schools, hospitals, and recreation can impact your quality of life.
- Think About Work Flexibility: Ensure your job can support a move—remote options are a big plus.
If you’re ready to explore tree change homes and discover how regional living could work for you, get in touch with our team today. We can help you assess your borrowing capacity, find suitable properties, and make your dream move stress-free.
Making the decision to move from the city to a regional area is more than just a lifestyle choice—it’s a strategic financial move. Tree change homes offer lower prices, strong growth potential, and a better work-life balance.
Don’t let city living dictate your options. Contact us today to explore available tree change homes, discuss home loan options, and start planning your new life in the regions. Your dream property among the gum trees could be closer than you think!
Phone: 1300 855 022
Email: clientservices@zippyfinancial.com.au
Zippy Financial is an award-winning mortgage brokerage specialising in home loans, property investment, commercial lending, and vehicle & asset finance. Whether you are looking to buy your first home, refinance or build your property investment portfolio, the team at Zippy Financial can help find and secure the right loan for you and your business.
About the Author:
Louisa Sanghera is an award-winning mortgage broker and Director at Zippy Financial. Louisa founded Zippy Financial with the goal of helping clients grow their wealth through smart property and business financing. Louisa utilises her expert financial knowledge, vision for exceptional customer service and passion for property to help her clients achieve their lifestyle and financial goals. Louisa is an experienced speaker, financial commentator, mortgage broker industry representative and small business advocate.
Connect with Louisa on Linkedin.
Louisa Sanghera is a Credit Representative (437236) of Mortgage Specialists Pty Ltd (Australian Credit Licence No. 387025).
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