For first home builders in South East Queensland, choosing the right suburb is about more than affordability. It’s about long-term value, lifestyle and growth potential. The coming year is shaping up to be particularly interesting, with a number of suburbs expected to outperform thanks to infrastructure upgrades, population growth and evolving local markets.

Whether you are planning to build in Brisbane, the Gold Coast, Moreton Bay or the Ipswich and Lockyer Valley growth corridors, understanding which suburbs are on the rise can help you make smarter decisions and get the most out of your first home build.

‍

‍

Suburbs in South East Queensland to Watch in 2026

Based on insights from realestate.com.au’s Hot 100, PropTrack data and input from property experts, the following suburbs are expected to outperform in 2026. They are either experiencing gentrification, rezoning, demographic shifts or a market turnaround, making them attractive for first home buyers looking for value and growth:

‍

• Baringa – Sunshine Coast
  Family-friendly suburb in the new Aura community with schools, parks and local jobs. Homes remain affordable compared to beachside suburbs, making it ideal for families seeking value. Median house price $850,000 (+6%), weekly rent $700.

• Bray Park – Moreton Bay
  Affordable northern suburb with schools, shops, green spaces and rail links to Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast. Median house price $864,000 (+11%), weekly rent $610. Strong rental demand makes it appealing for first home buyers and investors.

• Ripley – Ipswich
  Fast-growing corridor with new schools, town centres and services. Popular for first home buyers and young families seeking space and affordability. Median house price $790,000 (+10%), weekly rent $600.

• Upper Coomera – Gold Coast
  Family-friendly community near schools, shopping and M1 motorway access. Attracts young families seeking the Gold Coast lifestyle without beachfront prices. Median house price $1,021,000 (+12%), weekly rent $780.

• Logan Central – Logan
  Affordable middle-ring suburb with improving infrastructure and transport options. High rental demand and strong investment potential make it a smart choice for first home buyers. Median house price $734,000 (+15%), weekly rent $530.

• Plainland – Lockyer Valley
  Semi-rural hub offering larger block sizes and affordable homes. Popular with first home buyers seeking a quieter lifestyle close to Brisbane. Median house price $787,000 (+9%), weekly rent $660.

• Other emerging SEQ suburbs: Highfields, Lowood, Wavell Heights, Petrie, Griffin

‍

Many of these suburbs are located within emerging growth corridors, with prices expected to benefit from major infrastructure projects such as metro lines, transport hubs, stadiums and new schools.

‍

Why 2026 is a Key Year for First Home Builders

National home prices have risen for 11 consecutive months, driven by falling interest rates, improved buyer sentiment and government support for first home buyers. While this has boosted investor activity, it has also created opportunities for owner-occupiers to enter high-potential suburbs.

‍

Annual Home Price Growth

‍

South East Queensland’s entries into the Hot 100 highlight a mix of emerging growth corridors and family-friendly locations. Areas with strong jobs growth, improved transport connections and new housing developments are seeing both capital growth and sustained buyer demand. For first home builders, these suburbs offer a balance of affordability, lifestyle and long-term value.

‍

Tips for First Home Builders in SEQ

Even in high-potential suburbs, a successful first home build requires careful planning. Consider the following:

‍

• Look for suburbs with upcoming infrastructure projects, as these often coincide with price growth

• Research rezoning and local demographic trends which can affect land and home values over time

• Factor in your budget and site costs, including variations for sloped blocks or local regulations

• Work with a builder broker to guide you through approvals, land selection and builder selection, helping your project get moving more smoothly

‍

First home builders in South East Queensland are entering an exciting market with opportunities in both established and emerging suburbs. By focusing on areas with infrastructure investment, population growth and strong buyer demand, first home buyers can make smarter choices and build a home that meets both lifestyle needs and long-term investment goals.

‍

A Smarter Way to Navigate Your First Home Journey

Whether you are buying or building, entering the Queensland property market as a first-home buyer can feel overwhelming. The key is having clear information, realistic expectations and support early in the process.

At Nesta, we help first-home buyers across Queensland understand their options, compare builders and plan their build with confidence. From suburb selection to builder matching and contract guidance, we’re here to make the process clearer and less stressful.

With the right preparation and advice, building or buying your first home does not have to feel daunting.

Start your journey with confidence. Talk to a Nesta broker for free today.

Want more tips? Check out our blog and start planning your dream build with Nesta today.