Investing in SDA property (Specialist Disability Accommodation) has always been seen as a lucrative opportunity. However, rising costs, oversupply concerns, and shifting trends are making some investors rethink their strategies.
With the NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) creating a property market for people with disabilities, there’s both great potential and significant risk. In this article, we’ll cover why now might not be the best time to go for traditional SDA house and land packages, why SDA apartments are becoming the preferred option, and how to avoid the costly mistakes others are making in 2024.
Rising Costs: Why House and Land Packages Are Becoming Too Expensive
House and land packages were once the gold standard for SDA investment, however oversupply in greenfield areas has shifted the market.
The escalating costs of land and construction in inner and mid-ring areas of the larger cities are pushing the price of these properties into the stratosphere. In prime areas, land alone can cost between $1 million to $2 million, leaving many investors with little option but to pull out of these deals.
On top of that, construction delays and the risk of builder insolvency are creating additional stress for investors. The combination of rising land prices and construction uncertainties makes house and land packages less appealing for most investors.
The Shift Toward SDA Apartments: A Smarter Investment in 2024
So, what’s the alternative? More investors are shifting toward SDA apartments, and here’s why:
Faster Completion Times
Unlike house and land packages, SDA apartments often have quicker construction timelines, allowing investors to start generating rental income sooner.
Lower Upfront Costs
SDA apartments typically require a smaller deposit (10-20%), making them much more affordable compared to house and land packages in high-demand areas.
Single-Tenant Focus
Apartments designed for single tenants are much easier to manage than multi-tenant properties. With a single-tenant arrangement for people with disabilities, investors face fewer vacancies and more stable rental income.
Closer to Amenities
SDA apartments in established areas have better access to healthcare, transport, and community services. This proximity makes them more desirable for NDIS participants, ensuring strong demand.
Oversupply Risk: Avoid the Traps in Outer Suburbs
While SDA apartments present great opportunities, not every location is a good choice. Oversupply is a growing problem, particularly in some outer suburban areas.
For example, parts of Melbourne are seeing too many SDA properties that aren't attracting enough tenants. In these regions, rents are dropping, vacancies are rising, and lenders are starting to withdraw support due to the risk of over investment.
If you invest in oversupplied areas, you might find it harder to secure long-term tenants or achieve a reasonable return.
Don’t Rely on Outdated Trends
What worked in previous years might not work in 2024. Using outdated trends to make investment decisions could lead to poor returns. Investors need to rely on real-time data to pinpoint areas with high demand and identify potential oversupply risks before they commit.
The market is shifting, and properties that were once in high demand may not be as valuable now. By understanding the current landscape through accurate data, investors can make smarter choices about where to buy.
Cash Flow vs. Capital Growth: Focus on Long-Term Returns
Unlike traditional property investment that focuses on capital growth, SDA properties are more about cash flow.
These properties offer steady, reliable rental income that is tied to the Consumer Price Index (CPI), meaning rents increase annually. This makes them an attractive option for investors looking for long-term cash flow.
If your investment strategy revolves around income, then SDA apartments are currently a better option than traditional properties in high-growth areas.
Conclusion
Investing in SDA properties can still be profitable, but it requires careful planning and research. SDA apartments in the right areas offer the best returns with quicker completion times, lower costs, and higher demand.
Be sure to avoid oversupplied areas and use data-driven insights to make the right investment choices. For safer, more reliable options, consider investing in in well-established areas.
