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Best Sunshine Coast suburbs for first home buyers

If you’re thinking about buying your first home on the Sunshine Coast, you’re not alone. With its great weather, relaxed lifestyle and strong long-term growth, the region continues to attract young buyers looking to get on the property ladder.

That said, prices in many beachside suburbs have climbed well out of reach. But that doesn’t mean you need to give up – there are still pockets that offer a smart mix of affordability, lifestyle and potential.

In this blog, we’ll walk through some of the best suburbs in Sunshine Coast for first home buyers, especially those with realistic entry points, decent amenities and room to grow. We’ll also explain how the First Home Owner Grant in Queensland (FHOG) could shape your shortlist – since it only applies to new homes, it often steers buyers toward newer estates and developing areas. It may also boost your borrowing power, which could open the door to more locations than you first expected.

Understanding the Sunshine Coast property market for first home buyers

The market for a first home buyer on the Sunshine Coast in 2025 is very competitive, but there are opportunities for those who know what to look for.

With the median house value now above $1 million, many buyers are widening their search. 

Fortunately, there are still affordable suburbs on the Sunshine Coast where it’s possible to buy a house or unit under $800,000, especially inland or in newer estates. These locations often attract first home buyers because they offer a better balance between price, liveability and future upside.

If you’re just starting out, here are a few key things to think about:

  • Commute times: Whether you’re heading to Brisbane or staying local, proximity to the Bruce Highway or train stations matters
  • Schools and local services: If you’re planning a family or just want convenience, check what’s nearby
  • Lifestyle: Do you want peace and quiet? A beach nearby? A sense of community?
  • New builds vs older homes: Newer builds may be grant-eligible, but older homes could offer more value or renovation potential
  • Growth prospects: Look for signs of new infrastructure, town centre upgrades or rezoning plans

If you’re eligible for support, the FHOG offers $30,000 for buyers building or purchasing a new home. 

Best suburbs for first home buyers on the Sunshine Coast

For a first home buyer on the Sunshine Coast, it’s easy to feel priced out of the market. But there are still suburbs where you can find good value, especially if you’re open to moving slightly inland or considering a newly built home. 

Below are five areas that often come up in conversations about affordable suburbs on the Sunshine Coast for first home buyers – all offering a combination of realistic pricing, access to amenities, and potential for long-term growth.

1. Nambour

  • A long-time inland hub that’s starting to shine again

Nambour offers one of the lowest entry points for detached houses on the Sunshine Coast. It’s about 15 kilometres from the coast, with a train station, hospital, schools, and a lively local community. While it’s still more affordable than neighbouring areas, investment in the town centre and rail upgrades are driving new interest. Many buyers are drawn to its character homes and large blocks, and the town’s regeneration is well underway.

2. Caloundra West (Aura estate)

  • Family-friendly and close to the coast

Caloundra West sits just inland from Caloundra and is part of the fast-growing Aura development. It’s popular with young families and couples wanting a low-maintenance, modern home close to beaches, shops and parks. With schools, bike paths and a growing town centre already in place, the area has a strong sense of community. It’s a good option for first home buyers on the Sunshine Coast looking to take advantage of new home incentives in a suburb designed for growth.

3. Palmview (Harmony estate)

  • Master-planned and centrally located

Palmview is home to the Harmony estate – a master-planned community just off the Bruce Highway. It’s 10 minutes to Mooloolaba Beach and a short drive to the university and key employment hubs. The area has seen a lot of first home buyer activity, thanks to its modern builds, family-friendly layout and access to parks, schools and walking trails. With more infrastructure on the way, Palmview is seen as a long-term growth area.

4. Sippy Downs

  • Live near uni, beaches and jobs

Known as the education hub of the Coast, Sippy Downs is ideal for first home buyers who want easy access to the University of the Sunshine Coast, nearby health precincts and fast connections to Brisbane. The area has a mix of houses and townhouses, often at more achievable prices than the beachfront suburbs. It’s also well suited to buyers who plan to rent out the home in future, given the consistent demand from students and professionals.

5. Burnside

  • Quiet and underrated

Next to Nambour but often overlooked, Burnside offers a peaceful lifestyle without the coastal price tag. It’s small, quiet and community-focused, with good access to shops and services in nearby Nambour. Homes here are generally more affordable than in surrounding areas, and many first home buyers on the Sunshine Coast see it as a hidden gem, especially as demand for nearby suburbs grows.

Maximising your FHOG and other schemes on the Sunshine Coast

If you’re planning to use government assistance to help buy your first home, it’s worth understanding how different schemes can shape what you can afford – and where you can buy.

The $30,000 FHOG in Queensland can be used to purchase eligible new homes, including builds, off-the-plan purchases and substantially renovated properties. Since the grant doesn’t apply to established homes, many first home buyers end up focusing on suburbs with newer estates, like Caloundra West or Palmview, where the support can actually be used.

It’s also important to know that the grant is typically paid at settlement. So, while it’s helpful for your budget overall, it generally doesn’t count toward your deposit. A Loan Market broker can help you plan for this and explore which lenders may consider the grant as part of your overall financial position.

In addition to the grant, you might also be eligible for:

If you’re not sure what applies to you, it’s a good idea to speak with a Loan Market broker early. We can help you work through your options and figure out which suburbs align with both your lifestyle goals and eligibility.

Tips for first home buyers entering the Sunshine Coast property market

If you’re just getting started, the process can feel a bit overwhelming, especially with prices, paperwork and property jargon all coming at once. Here are a few practical tips to help you prepare with more clarity and confidence.

1. Get pre-approved early

Before you start shortlisting properties, it helps to know what you can actually afford. Pre-approval gives you a clear budget and shows agents you’re a serious buyer. 

2. Research the market – and not just the coast

It’s tempting to focus on beachside suburbs, but widening your search can reveal more value. Look into newer inland estates, emerging hubs and areas with planned infrastructure. The best deals often aren’t where you expect them.

3. Don’t rule out older homes or minor renovations

Properties that need a bit of work can be a smart way to enter the market. Even small upgrades over time can add value. Just be sure to check the condition and factor in repair costs.

4. Talk to local real estate agents

Agents know what’s selling, what’s sitting and where demand is rising. Build relationships with a few local experts in the areas you’re interested in; they may even flag properties before they hit the market.

5. Understand all the moving parts

There’s more to buying a home than the deposit. Factor in stamp duty, LMI, legal fees and building inspections. 

FAQs about the Sunshine Coast property market for first home buyers

1. What stamp duty concessions are available in Queensland?

As a first home buyer on the Sunshine Coast, you may be eligible for a full or partial stamp duty concession when buying a home under a certain value. This can reduce your upfront costs significantly. Eligibility depends on the property price and whether it will be your principal place of residence.

2. Can I get support if I’m buying an existing (non-new) home?

Yes. While the state’s FHOG typically applies only to new homes, other schemes like the federal government’s FHG  and stamp duty concessions may still apply to established properties. 

3. Do any lenders still accept a 5% deposit?

Some lenders do – especially under the FHG, which allows eligible buyers to purchase with as little as 5% without paying LMI.

4. Should I buy a house or unit as a first home buyer on the Sunshine Coast?

It depends on your budget, lifestyle and goals. Units are typically more affordable and easier to maintain, while houses may offer more space and potential for capital growth. In many cases, units in central areas (like Maroochydore or Sippy Downs) provide a good first step onto the property ladder.

5. How long does it take to buy a house on the Sunshine Coast?

It varies, but once your finances are in order, it could take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months. Timeframes depend on how competitive the market is, how quickly you find the right property and how long settlement takes. Getting pre-approved can help speed things up.

Final thoughts for first home buyers on the Sunshine Coast

The Sunshine Coast property market for first home buyers can be challenging, but it’s also full of opportunities. If you’re willing to explore a little beyond the beachfront, there are still plenty of suburbs where you can buy a home that fits your lifestyle and your budget.

Focus on the locations that offer strong value, whether that’s a new estate with grant eligibility or an established suburb with long-term growth potential. Keep your options open, get your finances sorted early, and don’t be afraid to ask for help along the way.

Ready to explore your options for buying your first home on the Sunshine Coast? Talk with a Loan Market broker today to understand your borrowing capacity, discuss available grants, and find the right loan for you.

EXTERNAL SOURCES:

First Home Owner Grant – QLD Government

Why 2025 is the year for Sunshine Coast and Moreton Bay first home buyers

Boost to Buy: Queensland Budget targets first home buyers

CoreLogic Regional Market Update – Sunshine Coast (April 2025)


Published: 29/6/2025
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