Gold Coast dwelling approvals remained steady for the six months ended December 2009.  Noticeably, house approvals (1,275 up from 839) outpaced unit approvals (419 dow from 781).  The level of approvals, however, is running at only 56% of the seven year average of 3,014 per half year.  This reflects a lesser number of active developers in the Gold Coast as well as the general problem of development finance.

Whilst approvals remain steady business confidence on the Gold Coast is on the rise with the local economy expected to fire up by the end of 2010.

The Griffith University – Gold Coast Bulletin Business Confidence Index has produced clear evidenced of more positive thinking among 400 business proprietors polled in December 2009.

The positive level of confidence in the performance of the property market this year rose by 16%; for tourism, it rose by 14%, and for retail 13%.  Confidence in manufacturing and export markets remained steady, with neutral views prevailing.

Source:  Midwood Report, February Quarter 2010