Real Estate
9 October, 2025
Renos a big plus
RISING property values are driving demand for affordable ‘renovator’ opportunities in the Cairns market.
According to valuers Herron Todd White, units rather than detached houses now dominate cheaper stock.
“Many buyers who have been priced out of the traditional housing market are opting for duplex units, villas, townhouses and standard units,” said valuer Hayden Lynam.
“The lower-priced unit market in Cairns has outperformed the detached housing market in recent months and has been the standout performer over the past four years following COVID,” he said.
“A notable example is the recent sale of a two-bedroom, one-bathroom unit at 25 Balaclava Road, Earlville.
“This property sold for $250,000 on 3 July 2025, having previously transacted in March 2021 for $148,000.
“No major renovations were undertaken between sales. This equates to a 69% increase in capital value in just four years.
“Affordability makes this segment attractive to investors, owner-occupiers and property flippers.”
Mr Lynam said at the other end of the market, the severe shortage of good-quality renovated stock in desirable locations was benefiting professional flippers.
He said a recent example was a property at 14 Pyne Street, Edge Hill, which went under contract at $1.9 million. The purchaser was from Tasmania.
“Back in 2014, the property comprised a circa 1950 high-set Queenslander-style residence with two bedrooms, one bathroom and a semi-modern fit-out,” Mr Lynam said.
“In recent years, the residence has been fully renovated, extended and enclosed underneath to now comprise a high-quality five-bedroom, two-bathroom home with patio, veranda, double carport and inground pool.
“Fully-renovated timber homes are rare and command a premium, particularly in blue-chip suburbs such as Edge Hill.”
The home is a just a short stroll to the vibrant cafe and restaurant strip and the beautiful Botanical Gardens.
It is described as “the pinnacle of Queenslander charm fused with modern luxury”. The home includes two spacious living areas flowing out onto expansive alfresco patios. The upper terrace features a new outdoor kitchen and barbecue. The centrepiece is a new kitchen.
It was sold by Udo Jattke of New Level Real Estate.
