Lock SA Property Investment

CAUTION — $251,871 (pending peer validation) median with 14.3%/yr growth over 5 years.

Lock has compounded at 14.3%/yr over 5 years. Median sits in the $251,871 (pending peer validation) band today. Properties are sitting on market for 30 days (roughly balanced conditions).

• Median house: $251,871 (pending peer validation) | Units: $0
• Gross yield: 2.5% | Net yield: 1.0%
• 5yr price CAGR: 14.3%/yr | 3yr forecast: 13.5%/yr
• Population: 253 | Owner-occupier rate: 65% | Affluence: Above Average

• Supply pipeline: Low — Price growth outpacing new supply, limited development pipeline

• Vacancy: 1.8% (improving) | Rental demand: High
• Median weekly rent: $123/wk | Days on market: 30 (stable)
• Landlord market — rents likely to keep rising.

• Median nightly rate: $567/night | Occupancy: 42%
• Estimated annual STR gross: ~$86,921/yr
• vs long-term rent: $6,396/yr (+1259% STR premium — factor in higher management costs)

• No major confirmed infrastructure projects on record.
• Transport: Standard suburban transport access

If Lock maintains 3%+ annual growth and vacancy stays below 1.3%, median prices could reach $289,652 within 3 years with yields compressing slightly as capital values rise.

A market correction or interest rate shock could see prices in Lock pull back 10-15% from $251,871, with vacancy rising to 3.2% and rental yields softening as tenants gain leverage.

• Distance from CBD may limit long-term capital growth potential

• Light Pass (SA): $326,000 median, 4.7% yield, 12.1% 1yr growth
• Roxby Downs (SA): $256,779 median, 7.5% yield, 4.3% 1yr growth
• Whyalla Norrie (SA): $319,785 median, 5.4% yield, 26.4% 1yr growth

Lock carries elevated risk that outweighs potential returns at current levels. A boom market combined with low vacancy risk warrants caution. Avoid new acquisitions unless significant discount to median pricing is achievable. Re-evaluate if vacancy falls below 2.5% or annual price growth exceeds 3%.

• Entry range: $226,684 – $277,058
• Minimum gross yield to target: 4.5%
• Watch signal: vacancy staying below 2% and days on market holding under 35

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