Property buyers in clear to hit road

LOCKED down Melburnians can break free of the city to privately inspect properties for sale and lease in the country.

Confusion about whether restricted residents can travel regionally for property viewings was cleared up by the State Government on Thursday.

Real Estate Institute of Victoria president Leah Calnan said real estate agents had been “holding their breath” while waiting on confirmation Melbourne residents could inspect homes. Regional residents can also travel into shutdown areas to inspect properties via appointment.

“I think the clarification is great . . . a lot of real estate agents were wanting to know how this would play out and affect their businesses,” Ms Calnan said.

“We’re seeing a large group of buyers from Melbourne who are looking at opportunities in regional Victoria, so there would have been a negative low-on effect to the property market.

“A lot of land has also come up for sale in areas like Bendigo and Ballarat, so the restrictions would have caused issues in getting those sold.”

Regions outside of Melbourne and the Mitchell Shire can still hold face-to-face auctions and open for inspections for up to 20 regional residents.

Ms Calnan encouraged Melbourne buyers to make no detours when travelling for inspections.

Biggin & Scott, Ballarat, agent Francesca Nichol said travel to and from the region was welcome news.

“A lot of our sales are to Melburnians, so it’s really important for our market and it keeps sales buoyant,” Ms Nichol said.

“At least some of our owners will be able to sell.”