Why wait for Melbourne’s property recovery, when you can live better now at The Cape?
With energy bills on the rise, suburban land shrinking, and commutes growing longer, many Victorians are rethinking what makes a home, with many reevaluating the benefits of urban living versus regional alternatives.
Urban living in Melbourne
Melbourne’s median house price sits at $934,500, according to CoreLogic in April 2025, down 5.4% from the 2022 peak. However, PropTrack’s Home Price Index indicates that prices are on the rise again, with Group Senior Economist Eleanor Creagh predicting that anticipated rate cuts and ongoing demand will continue to drive price growth throughout the remainder of 2025.
Affordability isn’t the only issue. New suburban developments are offering smaller and smaller land sizes, shrinking from 490m² in 2012 to 365 m² today, whilst dwelling footprints remain the same. The result? Less private green space, warmer microclimates, and more daily stress for residents.
The Cape is designed for a better future
Set on 40 hectares of the Bunurong Coastline in Cape Paterson, The Cape flips that model on its head. With over 50% of the land preserved as open space, wetlands, and wildlife habitat, residents enjoy both privacy and connection to nature.
Block sizes range from 400 m² to 920 m², giving you room to breathe—and grow. Currently, 140 of the planned 230+ homes are complete, with each one designed to be future-ready.
As living costs rise, the importance of sustainable design and energy performance continues to grow. Older homes built before 2003 average just 1.8 stars for thermal efficiency, making them less energy-efficient and more reliant on heating and cooling. Since 2024, the Victorian Government now requires all new builds to meet a 7 star NatHERs rating. Homes at The Cape average an 8-star NatHERS rating, maintaining comfortable temperatures all year round with minimal heating and cooling, saving residents up to $6,000 annually. “Our home stays cool even on 40-degree days with no aircon,” says resident John Godfrey. “We barely use the heater in winter – it’s saved us thousands”.
Every home at The Cape is 100% electric, powered by rooftop solar with battery-ready infrastructure. A 10,000-litre rainwater tank supports toilet flushing and garden irrigation. And with over 30% of residents driving electric vehicles, the average electricity bill is significantly reduced compared to the Victorian average of $1,655 per year for a residential home on a single rate tariff. “When the solar panels on your roof power your home and your car, the financial and environmental benefits are significant,” says Clint Hare, General Manager at The Cape.
Community, connection and contentment
According to Finder’s Consumer Sentiment Tracker, 77% of Australians link happiness with home ownership, financial security, and reliable internet connection. At The Cape fast NBN fibre to the premises comes standard, making working remotely a breeze. “With fibre internet, sustainable design, and peaceful surroundings, working from home here is both productive and enjoyable,” says Clint.
But it’s not just about technology—it’s about people. With no front fences and shared community spaces like walking tracks, a sports precinct, dog park, and The Cape Community Farm, The Cape fosters spontaneous neighbourly connections and a true sense of belonging. It’s a lifestyle that supports wellbeing, as highlighted in the Australian Unity Wellbeing Index.
Coastal calm with city convenience
While Melbourne commuters average 65 minutes a day in traffic, Cape residents enjoy the ease of living just 10 minutes from Wonthaggi. This thriving regional town is home to the newly redeveloped Bass Coast Hospital, multiple GPs, childcare centres, schools, shops, cafes, and sports amenities—all with stress-free parking.
The Cape presents an appealing alternative for those seeking sustainability, community, and a higher quality of life, without sacrificing modern comfort. With larger land sizes, superior energy efficiency, and thoughtfully designed shared spaces, The Cape stands out as a blueprint for future living in regional Australia. North-facing living areas capture sunlight, open gardens encourage social interaction, and native wildlife wanders freely through the wetlands and reserves.
While Melbourne offers buzz and bustle, The Cape shows that a better-balanced life is possible with sustainability, community, and modern comfort all built in.
New start for a better future
Living at The Cape reflects a shift toward more thoughtful, sustainable living. For families, it offers space and independence; for professionals, the potential for better work-life balance; and for those looking to simplify, a way to do so without giving up comfort or quality.
