RESIDENTIAL lots smaller than 500 square metres have become the blocks of choice for new home builders in Western Australia, according to the latest figures from the Western Australian Planning Commission.
WAPC statistics showed a jump in approvals for lots smaller than 500sqm from 1,462 in the September quarter to 2,129 in the December quarter in the metropolitan and Peel regions.
The median lot size across Perth and Peel is now 427sqm, down from 560sqm in 2004-05.
Urban Development Institute of Australia chief executive Debra Goostrey said the figures indicated a greater market acceptance of smaller homes.
Ms Goostrey said in 2004-05, just 30 per cent of approved lots were less than 500 metres; that figure had increased to more than 60 per cent currently.
“That’s a very rapid change in a few short years,” she said.
“Many buyers are attracted to them because they suit their needs.
“Many developers are selling house-and-land packages with compact two- and three-bedroom terrace homes ... they’re often close to public transport and are a really attractive option to first home-buyers and downsizers.”