A Local Buyer’s Agent Guide to Lifestyle, Simplicity & Smart Downsizing

There comes a time in life when the kids have flown the coop, the house feels a little too big, and you’re ready for a new chapter. Whether it’s downsizing, sea-changing, or just simplifying, empty nesters are leading the charge into some of the Sunshine Coast’s most liveable and lifestyle-rich suburbs.

At IPS Buyer’s Agents, we’ve worked with many empty nesters who are ready to trade maintenance for lifestyle, mowing for morning beach walks, and stress for sunshine. If that sounds like you, you’re in the right place.

Here are our Top 5 Sunshine Coast suburbs for empty nesters to buy in 2025, along with some helpful tips to make the move easier.

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1. Cotton Tree (Maroochydore)

🌊 Walk to the beach | ☕ Café culture | 🛍️ Close to shops and medical

Cotton Tree is a rare gem. Tucked along the river and beachfront in central Maroochydore, it’s got that flat, walkable, lifestyle-first vibe that so many empty nesters are chasing.

• Median Unit Price (2025): ~$825,000
• Why Empty Nesters Love It: You can walk to the shops, grab a coffee by the river, and catch up with friends without jumping in the car. Medical services are nearby, and the local community is welcoming and active.
• Watch Out For: Low availability—properties move fast, and prices reflect high demand.

💡 Empty Nester Tip: Focus on single-level units or villas with lift access. Lifestyle without stairs is a win.

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2. Twin Waters

⛳ Golf course lifestyle | 🌅 Canal and lakefront homes | 🧘‍♂️ Peaceful and quiet

If you’re after serenity, Twin Waters delivers. This master-planned community is known for wide streets, open space, and a true sense of calm—without being isolated.

• Median House Price (2025): ~$1.15M
• Why Empty Nesters Love It: Close to Maroochydore Airport for easy getaways, beautifully maintained parks and gardens, and strong community feel.
• Watch Out For: Limited public transport—owning a car is still handy here.

💡 Empty Nester Tip: Consider downsizing to a smaller home with a north-facing outdoor area—perfect for relaxing and entertaining.

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3. Buderim (Low-Maintenance Pockets)

🌳 Leafy setting | 🏫 Central location | 🏥 Close to hospitals

Buderim is a classic choice, especially for downsizers who don’t want to compromise on lifestyle. With its elevated position and strong community reputation, it’s ideal for those who want to stay active, connected, and comfortable.

• Median House Price (2025): ~$875,000
• Why Empty Nesters Love It: Proximity to hospitals, great cafes, and a tight-knit village feel. There are also excellent walking trails and plenty of community groups.
• Watch Out For: Sloping blocks—can be tricky long-term.

💡 Empty Nester Tip: Look for duplexes, townhouses, or villas near the Buderim village centre for low maintenance and walkability.

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4. Coolum Beach

🏖️ Relaxed beach lifestyle | 🛒 Boutique shops & markets | 🚗 Easy access to Noosa & Maroochydore

Want that beachside feel without the hustle of Noosa? Coolum Beach could be your sweet spot. It’s relaxed, beautiful, and still retains its coastal charm.

• Median House Price (2025): ~$980,000
• Why Empty Nesters Love It: Friendly locals, a great coastal walking track, and homes close to the water. It’s the kind of place where people actually stop and chat on their morning walks.
• Watch Out For: Summer crowds—though much calmer than Noosa.

💡 Empty Nester Tip: Townhouses and single-level homes are ideal here—easy to lock up and leave if you travel.

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5. Pelican Waters (Caloundra region)

🚤 Canal living | 🏌️‍♀️ Golf access | 🏘️ New master-planned estates

If you’re looking for a quiet, well-designed suburb with wide roads, friendly neighbours, and access to both canals and golf—this is it. Pelican Waters is one of the Sunshine Coast’s most underrated gems.

• Median House Price (2025): ~$950,000
• Why Empty Nesters Love It: It’s calm, clean, and well connected to Caloundra’s shops and medical services. Plus, it’s ideal for those who enjoy boating or a round of golf.
• Watch Out For: Some areas have larger homes than you may want—stick to compact lots or single-level homes.

💡 Empty Nester Tip: Ask your buyer’s agent about future development plans in the area. Some precincts are still emerging and may offer great buying now.

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🔑 Tips for Empty Nesters Downsizing or Relocating

1. Focus on Lifestyle, Not Just Size

It’s not just about going smaller—it’s about upgrading your lifestyle. Proximity to shops, doctors, and friends matters more than having a third living room.

2. Future-Proof Your Home

Single-level homes, wide doorways, and low-maintenance gardens can save you stress down the track—even if you don’t need them yet.

3. Think Travel-Ready

Love weekends away or long holidays? Look for properties with lock-up-and-leave appeal—secure homes with minimal upkeep.

4. Don’t Do It Alone

We’ve worked with dozens of empty nesters who didn’t want to deal with inspections, agents, or awkward negotiations. A local Sunshine Coast buyer’s agent can take care of the process and protect your time, energy, and money.

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👋 Ready for Your Next Chapter?

Downsizing doesn’t mean downgrading. Whether you want a coastal lifestyle, community connection, or just a low-maintenance home to enjoy the next stage of life, we can help.

📞 Book a free 15-minute discovery call
🔗 Book Here
Let’s find a home that suits you—not the kids who’ve already moved out!