Melbourne’s south east suburb Officer is set to be one of the fastest growing areas in Melbourne and boutique community Hillstowe by AVID Property Group is following the region’s trend, fast-tracking releases and kicking off construction of first homes a year after launching in 2019.

The opportunity to find affordable house and land packages on the outer fringes of Melbourne, the current extension of the HomeBuilder Grant and other Government incentives, and all-time low interest rates are seeing buyers flock to the area.

With first homes set to be complete in early 2021, Hillstowe buyers are thrilled to see their dreams come to life as bricks and mortar cement a safe and secure home for families amidst times of uncertainty and easing social distancing restrictions.

Marketing professional and Melbourne local Christina Iliadis has made the exciting step of purchasing her first home on her own at Hillstowe, looking for a place close to her family and in a community that looks out for each other.

“I grew up in a place where the neighbours felt like part of my family, we were a community, and that’s what I was looking for in Officer.

When I went to Hillstowe that sentiment really resonated with me and I remember thinking, ‘this is where I want to live’,” Ms Iliadis said.

“It’s a scary step and I’m really blessed to have such a great support network around me, my family, my friends and even the Hillstowe team have been amazing through the whole journey, answering every quirky question I had which has made my journey that much easier.”

“I love that there’s so much close to Hillstowe from the local winery, to shops for everyday shopping and nearby schools and health services − perfect for the future when I have a family.”

Ms Iliadis is also looking forward to seeing the Hillstowe central park completed in late 2021/early 2022 to take advantage of the open space to host events and catch up with neighbours in the heart of the community.

AVID Property Group General Manger Peter Vlitas said with friends, family and social connections being one of the most common things that Australians missed, it’s no wonder residents like Ms Iliadis are looking for connection and staying close to family.

“The key to building any community is creating a sense of connection and belonging and it’s not as simple as just living near lots of people – it’s about bringing people together and creating a connection.

“Aussies have started to understand this even more since COVID-19 which is why we’re seeing trends of people moving regionally, boomerang children and multigenerational living – the pandemic has really just accelerated that need for family and connection.

“Hillstowe is designed to be a boutique community with just 225 blocks − that sense of intimacy is what makes Hillstowe so special and it’s incredibly exciting to see the first homes under construction.

“Residents like Christina will be moving in as early as March 2021 next year starting a whole new chapter of Hillstowe’s life.”

For more information on land available at Hillstowe, visit www.hillstoweliving.com.au.