Service pressures from rapid population growth

What’s really behind the shift we’re seeing in regional property market trends, especially along the NSW South Coast? In this episode, we sit down with our good friend and local expert Matthew Knight as someone who’s been living and breathing this stuff for years, to give us the real story. We’ve heard all the noise about COVID booms and tree changers flooding coastal towns, but what happens after the rush settles? Are people still moving out of the city, or has the tide gone out?

Matthew walks us through what he’s seeing on the ground; where prices surged way too far, where they’ve pulled back, and which areas are starting to bounce back. We talk about the rise of Airbnb buyers again, the return of holiday home interest, and how first-home buyers have actually had some solid opportunities, despite what the headlines say. The regional property market trends aren’t one-size-fits-all, and this chat really digs into why.

We also get into infrastructure changes like the Shell Cove Marina and new hospitals, and how those are making a real difference for retirees, families, and essential workers looking to settle in. And of course, we couldn’t help but talk about schools, childcare, and what happens when a region grows faster than it’s ready for.

This one’s a grounded, honest look at life beyond the cities; what’s working, what’s struggling, and what might be next. If you’ve been watching regional property market trends and wondering where things are headed, this episode’s got plenty to chew on.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 - Introduction

01:12 - Who is Matthew Knight?

01:29 - How has the South Coast property market changed since COVID?

05:44 - Which areas were hit hardest when the South Coast boom was corrected?

08:18 - Did city buyers push prices beyond what locals consider fair value?

10:53 - Why are some beach towns struggling more than others?

13:15 - Are more investors shifting to short-term rentals like Airbnb?

15:49 - Why have some people reversed their sea change and returned to the city?

23:36 - Did first-home buyers take advantage of softer conditions in 2024?

28:40 - What infrastructure upgrades are reshaping the region?

32:01 - Are zoning changes and new housing keeping up with growth?

33:41 - What broke when the population boomed and is it being fixed?

36:45 - What does the next five years look like for the regional market?

39:37 - How much does the future of remote work affect the coast’s appeal?

42:07 - Do locals just visit the city when they need a dose of culture or convenience?

46:22 - Matthew Knight’s property dumbo

About Our Guest:

Matthew Knight is the Founder and Director of Precium, a buyer’s agency specialising in regional New South Wales, particularly the NSW South Coast. With over two decades of experience in property investment and market analysis, Matt combines data-driven insight with a practical understanding of local dynamics. A long-time resident of the South Coast himself, he has firsthand knowledge of the region’s unique challenges and opportunities. Matt is widely respected for his integrity, deep local expertise, and commitment to helping homebuyers, investors, and downsizers make informed, confident property decisions.

Connect with Matthew Knight:

• LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattknightprect
• Instagram https://www.instagram.com/preciumproperty/
• Website https://precium.com.au/

Resources:

• Visit our website https://www.theelephantintheroom.com.au
• If you have any questions or would like to be featured on our show, contact us at:
• The Elephant in the Room Property Podcast - questions@theelephantintheroom.com.au


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