Introduction

In today’s competitive market, finding land is easy—finding the right development site is what separates profit from risk. While location matters, true profitability is determined by a mix of planning, numbers, and potential.

Whether you're a seasoned developer or stepping into your first project, here’s how to spot a truly profitable property development site in Australia.
 

1. Zoning & Development Potential

The first filter is zoning.

Don’t just ask: "Can I build here?"
Ask: "What can I build, and how much?"

Look for:

• Residential Growth Zones (RGZ)
• Mixed-use zones for flexibility
• Precinct Structure Plans (PSPs) already approved

Bonus tip: A site with dual street frontage or corner exposure = higher design flexibility and resale value.
 

2. Feasibility & Financial Uplift

Run the numbers before you touch the land.

A profitable site shows strong uplift between:

• Total development cost
• Gross Realization Value (GRV)

Key metrics:

• Minimum 15–20% profit on cost
• Contingency buffer built into budget
• Multiple exit strategies (build to sell, build to hold, JV, etc.)

Tools like feasibility calculators and planning overlays are your best friends.

 

3. Access to Infrastructure

A site’s value is significantly boosted when it’s near:

• Public transport
• Major roads
• Schools, hospitals, and shopping centres
• Planned infrastructure projects (e.g., train station upgrades, freeway links)

Government spending equals future demand.
 

4. Demand-Driven Location

Look at buyer & renter demand—not just aesthetics.

Focus on:

• Suburbs with population growth
• Areas with strong rental yields
• Postcodes seeing migration or gentrification

Suburbs like Rockbank, Truganina, and Mickleham are great examples where demand meets future livability.
 

5. Market Timing & Strategy Fit

Is the site ready for permits? Or does it need rezoning?

Some developers prefer raw land for longer-term gains, others want permit-ready stock to flip faster.

Match your risk tolerance and funding structure to the site stage:

• Low risk = shovel-ready with permits
• Higher risk = rezoning plays or land banking
   

Final Word

Not all land is created equal—and not all sites lead to profit. The key lies in your due diligence, financial planning, and access to the right deals before they go public.

At Entourage Hub, we specialise in bringing you pre-screened, off-market, development-ready opportunities.

Let’s help you secure your next profitable site—before your competitor does.