BRISBANE is the quintessential 'overgrown country town', where fresh produce and old-fashioned hospitality greet you at every turn.
Known for its lush green outdoor spaces, which are proudly dotted throughout the city and surrounding suburbs, Brisbane prides itself on being a sustainable and environmentally conscious hub for visitors and locals alike.
If you stay long enough, you will be treated to locally grown gourmet sensations at the numerous festivals held across the city including Australia's biggest Greek festival 'Paniyiri', which will mark 45 years of celebrating Greek culture in May next year.
What makes it sensational? The city is well-known for embracing multicultural and Indigenous history, with many locals now referring to Brisbane by its Indigenous name 'Meanjin'. There is also a thriving artistic hub which honours creators during the many festivals and live performances throughout the year. Not to mention the city centre is surrounded by stunning mountain ranges to the west and pristine beaches to the east, making it the perfect home base for the adventurous at heart.
What's not to love? With more than 300 sunny days a year, you'll want to 'slip, slop, slap' on the air conditioner when summer hits.
Do you need a car? There are a number of great public transport options if you're looking to make your way across the city, including the CityCat ferry services and convenient bicycle paths. However, with more than 1200 sq km to cover, you might want to consider a car for longer trips.
Where to live if you work in the CBD: For corporate workers, suburbs such as West End, New Farm and Teneriffe are perfect options as they offer close commutes to work along with a growing nightlife if you're looking to grab some food on your way home.
Families with children will enjoy: Families can take advantage of suburbs such as Indooroopilly, Paddington, Holland Park and Red Hill which all offer easy access to schools and local attractions. There are also a huge range of local attractions and fun activities for children and adults alike including the Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium, Brisbane Botanic Gardens, Queensland Museum, Southbank Parklands, Queensland Performing Arts Centre and Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. Renters looking for a three or four-bedroom home should expect to pay between $560-800 per week with homes for sale averaging $860,000.
Have money: At the top end of the market are Ascot, Bulimba, Chandler, Fig Tree Pocket and Teneriffe with houses and property selling well into the tens of millions.
Want to get ahead of the market: Up and coming suburbs tipped for growth include Everton Park, Bridgeman Downs, Ferny Grove and Loganholme.
Here for a good time: Suburbs popular with the young and trendy include West End, Red Hill and Paddington due to their close proximity to the CBD, local theatres and music venues and thriving foodie scene. The average rent for a two-bed apartment in these suburbs can fluctuate from between $450-650 per week.
Looking to make the move to Brisbane? Make sure you check out realestateview.com.au for all the best listings. Click here to find homes for sale or for rent.
