Retirement is a time to enjoy the lifestyle you’ve worked hard for, and for one special couple, it meant finding the perfect home near the water. Their story highlights how working with a buyer’s agent can make all the difference in achieving your retirement dreams. Here’s how we found them their ideal retirement properties on Bribie Island.

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A Journey to Retirement: From Brisbane to Bribie Island

This lovely couple had moved from South Africa to Australia over 20 years ago, initially settling in a prestigious Brisbane suburb known for its bushland, golf course, and modern master-planned community. In 2011, they purchased a beautiful family home for $560,000, but due to some unfortunate work events and poor advice, they sold it in 2013 for $440,000—just enough to clear their mortgage and leave a modest sum.

Their experience is a testament to the risks of trying to time the market, as opposed to the benefits of time in the market. If they had held onto that property, it would likely be worth around $1,325,000 today.

Fast forward 11 years, and as they approached retirement, they found themselves priced out of many areas due to the property boom of recent years. They dreamed of a home within 300 metres of the water, ideally in Redcliffe. After missing out on a few properties, they contacted me, a buyer’s agent, to help turn their dream into reality.

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Working Together: Building the Dream List

After a brief phone chat, I sent them paperwork to review ahead of our in-person meeting. During our first meeting, we worked through the documents, and once signed, the search began. I spent time understanding their history and retirement goals, knowing how much this move meant to them.

I asked them for their top three must-haves:

1. Close to the water
2. A manageable two-bedroom or 3-bedroom (if I could find one) home
3. A budget must be under $500,000

Then we added 6–8 nice-to-haves, such as proximity to shops and medical facilities. Their one must-not-have was clear: they could not exceed their budget.

With these criteria in mind, we focused our search on Redcliffe, Deception Bay, Burpengary, Morayfield, and Caboolture.

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The Shift to Bribie Island

While viewing properties in Caboolture, I suggested Bribie Island as an alternative. Initially, they were unsure, but after a drive to Bellara and Bongaree, they fell in love with the area. The serene lifestyle, proximity to water, and charming community won them over, and we expanded the search to include these suburbs.

A week later, I found a property in Bongaree that I knew would be perfect. Located just 300 metres from the Pumicestone Passage, the two-bedroom, one-bathroom, one-car home was listed for offers over $499,000. After negotiation, we secured it for $485,000—within their budget.

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From Inspection to Settlement: A Smooth Process

The building and pest inspection came back clean, and I worked closely with their broker and solicitor to ensure a seamless process. On settlement day, I collected the keys and met the clients to hand over their brand-new home along with a settlement gift.

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Retirement Bliss on Bribie Island

Six weeks after moving in, I called to check on them. They were absolutely loving their new home and the relaxed lifestyle Bribie Island offers. Their daughter-in-law, known for her discerning taste, gave her seal of approval, which the couple proudly shared with me.

For this couple, their retirement dream of living near the water is now a reality. Their story underscores my belief that every client is more than a number—they are people with unique needs and aspirations. It’s my mission as a buyer’s agent to change lives for the better.

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Conclusion: Why Choose a Buyer’s Agent for Retirement Properties?

Finding the perfect retirement properties on Bribie Island wasn’t just about meeting a budget—it was about understanding this couple’s dreams, priorities, and unique journey. A buyer’s agent ensures the process is smooth, tailored, and stress-free, offering:

• Local market knowledge
• Negotiation expertise
• Access to off-market opportunities

If you’re ready to find your perfect retirement property and enjoy your golden years, let’s start the journey together. Contact me today to make your dream home a reality!