SW is the place to buy: report

A new report shows Collie is among the top 10 local government areas in the State where it takes the least time for first time buyer couples to afford a home deposit.

According to the ninth annual Bankwest First Time Buyer Report, it would take a couple 1.7 years to afford the 20 per cent deposit of $42,979 to buy a house in Collie as of June 2017.

The report also shows that Bunbury is among the top 10 areas in WA where it takes the least time for a couple to buy a unit.

According to the report, it would take a Bunbury couple 2.6 years to save the 20 per cent deposit of $58,905.

However, Busselton is among the top 10 local government areas where it takes the most time for couples to afford a unit deposit.

It would take a couple 3.2 years to afford the $72,633, 20 per cent deposit, according to the report.

Collie Preston MLA Mick Murray said the report was a positive outcome for the region.

“We have a very active market here in Collie,” he said.

“Some of the bargains we have here should certainly be taken up.

“I think it is about that we have reasonable work rate here and a reasonable amount of jobs in the area against the prices of the houses.”

Mr Murray said he was hopeful the town would become a destination for retired couples looking to downsize.

“It gives them a country life where you can get to the doctors, go to the swimming pool without being crowded,” he said.

“Then, of course, you have the forest around us so we are pushing along those lines.”