2013 has been a big year for the Team at Carnelian Projects, for our Clients and our Builders. On a national level it has also been a year scattered with big world events both natural and man made.

In a year where interest rates dropped and stayed low at record levels, there was plenty of talk about property and the construction industry on both a state and national level. Here is a quick summary of the results we witnessed in the Newcastle and Hunter regions.

Cameron Park - this suburb continued to soar in popularity for both First Home Owners and Investors. With each new release we saw a flurry of enquiries from people wanting to grab their piece of Cameron Park and there is still so much more to go. The price was a big drawcard for this area and on a few occasions we were able to package up house and land for under $400,000...a very rare and fortunate package for those lucky buyers!

Buttaba - on the other side of the Lake this suburb increased in popularity amongst those looking to downsize. Close to the freeway and Morisset train station, this suburb provides a peaceful setting for those wanting to find those unique blocks scattered amongst the established suburb.

Fletcher - another popular suburb for First Home Owners and Investors. Popularity certainly helped drive prices up. This suburb is perfectly positioned for those wanting to be close to Newcastle, the University and Hospital.

The magic question that everyone wants to ask...where will the hot spots be in 2014?

We believe the Western side of the Lake will grow in popularity. Places like Cooranbong, Morisset, Buttaba and surrounds. The lifestyle is enticing and it is close to the freeway to Sydney. Those that are priced out of the market in Sydney may in fact start to see these areas as ideal locations to buy their piece of land and build their dream home in an affordable setting. We can still find plenty of great blocks of land in these locations, plenty of opportunities available for First Home Owners and Investors.

Where did you see the growth in Newcastle and the Hunter in 2013? What picks do you have for property in 2014? We would love you to share your thoughts and experiences.

Whether it be in new land estates or established suburbs, all homes to be constructed must include a bush fire report during the planning stage. Following is a brief explanation of what is involved. 

• A bushfire report must be carried out during the initial stage of buying your house and land package. This is normally organised by the builder.
  
• This report is mandatory and provides the builder with a rating known as BAL - Bushfire Attack Level. This is essentially the risk factor for the building and it sets the guidelines for the architect and builder.
• Depending on the location and surrounding bush, the risk can be high or low with varying degrees in between. Your house plans must comply with this report.
• For example, depending on the BAL rating your house plans may need to include gutter guards or covers for the weep holes in the bricks so embers cannot enter the building.
• This report is included with your house plans when they are lodged with Council.

All builders are aware of this report and can discuss this with you when you are planing the layout and requirements for your home.