Intergenerational wealth transfer sees tightly held properties listed for the first time in decades

Australia’s intergenerational wealth transfer is underway, and the Raine & Horne Group says this is creating unprecedented opportunities to purchase properties that have been held by the same family for decades as owners reassess their assets, retirement plans and legacy.

Today, around 17.5% of Australians are aged 65 or over. Housing remains the dominant asset for older Australians, with households aged 65 and over hold an estimated $2.8 trillion in net property wealth or just over 30% of Australia’s total housing assets according to the Bankwest Curtin Economics Centre. 

Angus Raine, Executive Chairman, Raine & Horne Group, says the combination of an ageing population, changing family circumstances and the transfer of property wealth between generations is creating an unparalleled wave of activity across the housing market.

“For many families, properties that have been held for 20, 30 or even 50 years are more than just real estate,” said Mr Raine. “They represent decades of capital growth and family history.

“As ownership passes between generations, properties are being sold to unlock equity, simplify estates or to help the next generation establish their own financial future.”

Once-in-a-generation buying opportunities

The changing ownership landscape is creating once-in-a-generation opportunities for buyers to acquire properties that have not been listed for sale in decades.

“In my 35 years in real estate, I can't recall seeing so many property advertisements highlighting that a property is being offered for sale for the first time in 30, 40, 50 or even 80 years,” said Mr Raine.

“These properties offer buyers a rare chance to secure a home in an exceptional location, or they can be situated on larger parcels of land than is the norm these days.

“Whether it's a regional, rural or coastal property, if you find something you love, you might need to act because if you miss out, you could be waiting another generation for a similar opportunity.”

Historical homes, rich in character

In the Mid-West of NSW, Camp Hill – a landmark country estate, is listed for sale through Raine & Horne Gulgong/Kandos after being held by the same family for over 30 years.

Set on approximately 40 picturesque acres (16.19 hectares) along the scenic Lue Road between Mudgee and Rylstone, Camp Hill is steeped in history, with the main homestead dating back to 1860.

With price expectations of around $2 million, Mr Raine said, “Camp Hill is a reminder of a bygone era where craftsmanship, character and connection to the land were at the centre of country living.

“With three additional residences on the property, Camp Hill, which is currently an established equestrian property, lends itself to a variety of uses for its new owner including short-term accommodation stays.”

A rare oceanfront location

On the NSW North Coast, Raine & Horne Mollymook is managing the sale of 3 Sunset Strip, Manyana, a remarkable oceanfront home that has been held by the same family for three decades.

“Set directly on the shoreline, this open-plan, light-filled home enjoys uninterrupted views extending north over Inyadda Beach, towards Cape St George and Point Perpendicular, and south across the infinite blue of the Pacific. Not surprisingly, this is a very tightly held area, and homes with such proximity to the ocean rarely become available,” said Mr Raine.

Implications of the Great Wealth Transfer for sellers 

Listing a long-held property for sale can often be an emotional – as well as financial – decision.

“It is a step that can owners be rewarded with decades of capital growth as well as a chance to recalibrate how wealth is allocated across retirement plans, family support and future investments,” said Mr Raine.

“What matters is that sellers make the most of this rare opportunity by speaking with a local Raine & Horne property expert to understand current buyer demand, the property's position in the local market, and the optimal way to bring the property to market as it embarks on its next chapter with a new owner,” concluded Mr Raine.