Location, location, location. It seems to be the biggest selling point for people looking to buy luxury property in the Bay. Beachside views, warm climates, and good amenities is what real estate agents say are attracting buyers, particularly to Tauranga. Property reporter Zoe Hunter unlocks the latest OneRoof/Valocity data and
Tauranga house sales total more than $1 billion: City's top sellers revealed
OneRoof editor Owen Vaughan said Mount Maunganui had the biggest share of the city's top sales.
"Suburbs with great views, good beach access and good amenities are always going to be in demand," he said.
"Somewhere like the Mount has also been special because of its climate."
Simon Anderson, chief executive of Realty Group, which operates Eves and Bayleys, said it was not surprising the Mount had the cream of the crop.
Anderson said good location topped the list of must-haves for people buying luxury property, as well as the style of home, good facilities, schooling and medical support.
"The Mount has become more and more identifiable as a great place to live. It is sought after for its great lifestyle right next to the beach," he said.
"They are properties worthy of their values."
General manager of Tremains Bay of Plenty and Waikato, Anton Jones, said homes on Marine Parade and Oceanbeach Rd were particularly desirable in the Mount.
Jones said these types of sales were rare but people were willing to pay top dollar to secure their dream property.
Those sealing the deals were most likely successful local business people or Aucklanders either moving to the area or looking to buy a holiday home, he said.
"There is a lot of very successful businesses in Tauranga that have done really well over the last few years."
Tauranga Harcourts managing director Simon Martin said the Mount was unique and particularly attractive to buyers within a three-hour drive radius.
"It has a beautiful beach but it is also close to a main city, where there is employment just over the bridge," he said.
Martin said agents selling luxury real estate needed to give the property exposure.
"You can't sell a secret," he said.