Where Downsizers Are Moving and Why

Downsizers have driven a 28 per cent rise in sales of three-bedroom houses under $1.6 million in Leichhardt and Haberfield since January, according to CoreLogic figures released this week.

The pattern matters now because the NSW median dwelling price sits at $1.4 million while clearance rates in the Inner West hover between 65 and 72 per cent, leaving fewer options for buyers who need ground-floor living and quick access to specialist medical care at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital.

Many former Manly and Avalon residents have settled along Norton Street in Leichhardt for its weekend markets and short bus ride to the hospital campus, while others have chosen Ramsay Street in Haberfield for its Federation homes with wide driveways that suit mobility scooters.

Transport and service links

Both streets sit within 800 metres of the upcoming WestConnex Rozelle Interchange and the existing Inner West Light Rail stops, cutting travel time to the CBD to under 25 minutes. Local agents report that properties with rear lane access for carers have sold within 12 days, compared with the 28-day average across the rest of the Inner West.

Price evidence and next steps

Recent sales data show a three-bedroom weatherboard in Haberfield at 42 Ramsay Street fetched $1.52 million in May, while a similar sized villa in Leichhardt’s 17 Norton Street sold for $1.48 million last month. With strong overseas migration continuing to tighten inner-ring stock, buyers should inspect listings on Domain and realestate.com.au every Tuesday morning and engage a buyer’s advocate familiar with the Inner West Council’s adaptable housing grants before the spring auction surge.

This article is general information only and is not personal financial or investment advice. Consider your own circumstances and seek licensed professional advice before making financial decisions.