Byron’s traffic congestion has been suggested as one contributor to the staggering sales at Tallowood Ridge in Mullumbimby. In the past three weeks alone six sales have been made to Byron shire locals. Every available parcel but two sold over the summer period, pushing forward the release of Stage 4.

With the exception of a buyer each from South Australia and Brisbane, all sales since September have been to Byron shire residents. “I think once people move into the Byron shire they don’t want to leave” outlined Adam Mangleson from Chincogan Real Estate, who has personally purchased two lots at Tallowood Ridge. “And for sure traffic issues are pushing some locals away from Byron Bay itself, although it will always be popular given its natural assets.

Ryan Clarke is a Mullumbimby local who now lives with his young family in Brisbane. “We saw an opportunity with the Tallowood Ridge development” he said. “When we had a look at it we really loved the vibe of the community and the facilities that they’ve got. The block we bought has a lovely vista over Mount Chincogan. Having lived in different parts of the Byron Shire I know that when we do come back that’s where we’ll want to be. Mullum’s a great place to base yourself”.

Byron Council has confirmed that a full sized tennis court and basketball half court will be developed at Tallowood Ridge in 2015, with a full sized football field with a cricket pitch in season to follow. Council also recently granted a revised consent for three lots on the ridgeline. The public can now access the shelter belt, an area now classified open space to preserve the native trees in perpetuity.

“As prices rise it becomes even more evident how much better value Tallowood Ridge is in comparison to other areas” outlined Adam Mangleson. “Plus you have all the other reasons to buy there. Mullum is probably a bit safer, there is less crime and it’s a genuinely unique lifestyle option. More and more serious buyers are coming looking for real estate in Mullumbimby. They just can’t look past Tallowood Ridge for amenity and value. As it keeps improving and getting more established, friends and family visit the existing residents and they realize what a great spot it is”.

Following the summer sales Stage 4 has been released ahead of schedule to meet demand. Land at Tallowood Ridge is priced from $279,000 for a 530m2 site with breezes, big views and a near level building pad.

Left Bank Road, Mullumbimby.  www.tallowoodridge.com

Since Stage Three of Tallowood Ridge in Mullumbimby was released in late October 12 of the 19 lots have sold, making it the most successful land release in the past ten years.

The community was opened in 2011 in response to pent-up demand for residential home sites in Mullumbimby. Due to a lack of sewer capacity a moratorium (or prohibition) on development was in place for twelve years leading up to this time.

Of the twelve sales in Stage Three to date nine have been to locals, with only three going to buyers from outside the Byron shire. One of these was the O’Connor family from Perth.

“We have two young children so with the community atmosphere and playground Tallowood seemed like a good choice” said Elissa O’Connor. “It seems like a very friendly place. We take our kids to the playground and are meeting the neighbours. Investment wise it’s so reasonably priced to buy the land and build there in comparison to elsewhere”.

Pat Gadowski and her husband plan to move from Ocean Shores when their house is built in Stage 3. “I’m happy” said Pat. “My husband and I are downsizing and we were thinking of a good location to retire. It’s good because it’s central to everything. Tallowood caters to all age groups and lifestyles, from young families to mature people, with all the walkways and cycleways they have. And the value is good”.

Community facilities being built as a part of Stage 3 include two football fields and a cricket pitch in season. Stage 3 also includes the community’s highest land.

“Being the most elevated these lots offer breezes in summer and in winter they are up to 5° warmer as they are up and out of the valley where the cooler air settles” outlined John Bennett, one of the collective of Directors of Tallowood Ridge. “On top of all this the higher lots have panoramic views, with Mount Chincogan to the north east and Mount Warning to the north west”.

According to local real estate agent Adam Mangleson, who has purchased two lots at Tallowood Ridge himself, value is driving the strong sales above all else. “The value is certainly there” said Adam. “Buyers are simply finding they can build a much better home for the same price as buying an existing home in the area. Plus they get the parks, NBN coverage and all the infrastructure. The dollars and cents are the best at Tallowood”.

Tallowood Ridge is located at Tuckeroo Drive in Mullumbimby. Land is priced from $219,000 for 677m2.

For enquiries visit www.tallowoodridge.com