A snapshot from the bird’s eye view of our local estate agents suggests that 2010 is set to be a big year for real estate.

Principals from local real estate agents around the shire have all agreed that sales for the start of 2010 have been stronger than previous years and the market is showing signs of steady growth.

Anthony Field, of Ray White, Nambucca Heads, sees 2010 as “very exciting” for real estate.

“I’ve never been this busy,” Mr Field said. “In the last quarter we sold eight of nine properties under the hammer (at auction) and the response to our current auction campaign has been outstanding.”

Mr Field said ‘buying confidence’ was back, with people feeling more comfortable and secure investing in real estate.

Nambucca Valley Property Sales Owner Stewart Curtis agrees that the level of activity is considerably higher so far.

“I have been very busy over the past month,” Mr Curtis said.

“Business has been driven by locals and

people from out of the area alike.

“The current trend, however, is subject to interest rates.”

Bowra Real Estate Owner Ray Hanly believes that the last three interest rate rises have not been felt by the market and is cautious about being too optimistic just yet.

“There is definitely more interest in the area, but the market hasn’t changed,” Mr Hanly said.

“I am finding that people from Byron Bay, Casino, Lismore and Sydney are showing an interest in Bowraville.

“What is affecting real estate sales and interest in Bowraville is the condition of the roads, they are falling apart.

“Council have done nothing to help improve the town, no money gets spent out here.” Nambucca Heads is not suffering the same ‘road rage’ as Bowraville though.

Inspiration Real Estate’s Linda Ford said that the coastal areas of the valley were a hotspot because of affordability and the beautiful natural environment.

“Enquiries keep flowing in, so I have no complaints so far,” Ms Ford said.