If you've been following the property markets in the last few months, then you've probably heard about the downturn in prices for major cities Sydney and Melbourne. Property owners in rural areas have been waiting on tenterhooks to see if the local market will suffer the same fate, according to local experts though, Kempsey could avoid it altogether. 

The licensee for Winsome Real Estate in Kempsey Robert McNamara spoke to the Argus about his organisation's experiences in the market over the last 12 months.

"I'd say prices are slightly higher than this time 12 months ago, some of our sales are achieving good prices," he said.

"There is a lot of interest from buyers, East Kempsey is going strong, and West Kempsey is still popular, especially with people from the Central Coast who are looking to get away from the city."

Aside from the interest that Winsome Real Estate has been receiving, based on his experience, Mr McNamara doesn't think the Kempsey market will see a significant drop in value.

"Kempsey doesn't go through the highs and lows to the degree of other areas," he said.

"Everything goes in cycles; I don't think we will experience a downturn to the degree that is being predicted."

Carlos Peters, the Licensee for L.J Hooker in Kempsey is also sceptical that Kempsey will suffer the same fate as the Sydney housing market.

"Prices in this area are probably about the same, maybe a little higher, it slowed down just before Christmas, but all through January and February we have been flat out."

"I don't think we will experience a significant downturn, and if we do, it will be minimal compared to other areas. We are priced very competitively and we still have a lot of room for growth."

Mr Peters also believes that the area has a lot to attract potential buyers. 

"We have close proximity to a variety of locations; it's a short drive to the beach, Trial Bay at South West Rocks, there is a great view of the mountains, opportunities for boating, camping, fishing, all right on our doorstep."

"Good things happen in this town; we have a good community and a great sporting community."

Ian Argue, Principal from Kempsey Stock and Land, also believes property prices are at an acceptable level.

"I think we have seen an increase in the last two to three years; the prices are higher," he said.

Mr Argue has 40 years of experience to draw upon and is confident that any downturn the area experiences will be minimal, and despite the predictions, the demand for property is actually higher.

"If we are hit with a downturn, there will be less stock on the market; however, I don't think we will be affected greatly, if at all, our prices haven't reached anything close to highs Sydney has experienced."

"We are in a situation where there is more demand than stock, the prices around our area are quite attractive."

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