Dunsborough WA Property Investment

SUBURB INVESTMENT BRIEF — Dunsborough, WA 6281 LGA: Generated: 2026-04-11 | Estait AI Analysis

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Overall Score: 69/100 — Buy

Dunsborough rates as "Buy" due to strong growth fundamentals, tight rental market (1.3% vacancy).

Dunsborough sits in a growth phase of the property cycle with an overall investment score of 69 out of 100. This assessment reflects the suburb's growth trajectory, rental market health, economic resilience, and infrastructure positioning within the WA market.

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MARKET POSITION

Median house price: $1,300,000 Median unit price: $168,881 Median weekly rent: $850/week Days on market: 20 days (improving)

Dunsborough sits within the mid-market segment in the WA property landscape. Properties are spending an average of 20 days on market, indicating strong buyer competition.

Comparable suburbs: - Alfred Cove (WA): Median $1,500,000, yield 2.8%, 1yr growth 20.0% - Aubin Grove (WA): Median $935,000, yield 4.1%, 1yr growth 20.0% - Bayswater (WA): Median $1,100,000, yield 3.5%, 1yr growth 19.7%

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RENTAL MARKET

Gross rental yield: 3.4% Net rental yield: 1.9% Vacancy rate: 1.3% (improving) Rental demand: Very High

The rental market in Dunsborough is characterised by very high demand with a vacancy rate of 1.3%, which is well below the national average of approximately 2.5%. Vacancy is trending improving, supporting landlord pricing power.

Short-term rental data indicates a median nightly rate of $165 with an estimated occupancy of 66%. This translates to an estimated annual STR revenue of $39,748 before expenses. Long-term rental at $44,200/year may offer comparable or better risk-adjusted returns given lower management overhead.

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GROWTH OUTLOOK

Population growth (5yr): 1.2% Price CAGR (5yr): 7.3% Capital growth (3yr forecast): 8.2% Supply pipeline: Low

Price growth outpacing new supply, limited development pipeline

Infrastructure & transport: - No major infrastructure projects identified. Transport: Well-connected inner-city location

If Dunsborough maintains 3%+ annual growth and vacancy stays below 0.9%, median prices could reach $1,495,000 within 3 years with yields compressing slightly as capital values rise.

At current trajectory (1.2% growth, 1.3% vacancy, 3.4% yield), Dunsborough offers steady returns with moderate capital appreciation in line with broader market trends.

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RISK ASSESSMENT

Market cycle position: Growth Vacancy risk: Low

Key risks: - No significant risk factors identified for this suburb

Interest rate sensitivity (est. monthly repayment on median house price, 80% LVR): - At 7%: $6,919/month - At 8%: $7,631/month - At 9%: $8,368/month

A market correction or interest rate shock could see prices in Dunsborough pull back 10-15% from $1,300,000, with vacancy rising to 2.3% and rental yields softening as tenants gain leverage.

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LIVEABILITY

Affluence rating: High Safety score: 7.4/10 Walkability: 90/100 Owner-occupied: 36%

Schools: - Dunsborough Public School (primary): Rating 10.0/10 - Dunsborough East Public School (primary): Rating 9.5/10 - Dunsborough West Public School (primary): Rating 9.0/10 - Dunsborough High School (secondary): Rating 10.0/10

Dunsborough is a highly sought-after residential area with good safety ratings and strong walkability. The 36% owner-occupier rate indicates a predominantly rental market.

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RECOMMENDATION — BUY

Dunsborough presents a compelling investment opportunity. The combination of solid fundamentals and very high rental demand supports entry at current price levels.

Conditions: Proceed with due diligence on specific properties. Target gross yields above 3.4% and prioritise properties with value-add potential. Consider timing entry around the current growth phase of the market cycle.

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KEY ACTION ITEMS

1. Shortlist properties in the $1,170,000 - 1,430,000 range for deeper analysis 2. Verify current vacancy and rental rates with local property managers 3. Assess STR regulatory environment with local council 4. Model cash flow at 7%+ interest rates before committing 5. Engage a buyer's agent with Dunsborough market expertise for off-market opportunities

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Disclaimer: This analysis is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or investment advice. Seek professional advice before making investment decisions.