Maclean
Investment Score
72
/100
AI Intelligence Summary
Maclean is a charming riverside town in NSW's Northern Rivers region, serving as the administrative center of Clarence Valley Council. Located on the scenic Clarence River approximately 650km north of Sydney, this town of around 3,000 residents is renowned for its strong Scottish heritage, celebrated annually through the Highland Gathering festival. The community attracts retirees and lifestyle seekers drawn to its peaceful river setting, affordable housing, and relaxed pace of life. Property markets are driven by tree-change migration, with riverfront homes commanding premium prices while maintaining overall affordability compared to coastal alternatives. The town offers essential services including Maclean High School, medical facilities, and recreational amenities like golf courses and river activities. While geographically isolated from major centers, Maclean's position on the Pacific Highway provides reasonable connectivity. The local economy relies on agriculture, tourism, and government services, with limited employment diversity presenting challenges for younger demographics. Infrastructure includes NBN connectivity and essential services, though flood risk remains a consideration for some areas. The tight rental market reflects steady demand from both permanent residents and visitors exploring the region.
Strengths
- •Scenic Clarence River location with recreational boating and fishing
- •Strong community spirit and Scottish cultural heritage
- •Affordable housing market compared to coastal areas
- •Strategic location on Pacific Highway for regional connectivity
Opportunities
- •Growing tree-change migration trend
- •Tourism development leveraging Scottish heritage
- •Riverfront property development potential
- •Regional telecommuting growth with NBN infrastructure
Considerations
- •Limited employment opportunities and economic diversity
- •Flood risk in certain low-lying areas
- •Distance from major employment centers and services
- •Aging population demographics
A decision, not just a search · Maclean
Does a promising suburb make this the right property decision?
No. Suburb data can help you shortlist, but it cannot establish the value, condition or suitability of a particular property. Compare buying, retaining your current property and waiting against your household cash flow, finance conditions and intended holding period.
Questions that could change the answer
- What would make this location unsuitable even if its median price rises?
- Could you meet the costs if income falls, the property is vacant or repairs are needed?
- Are you comparing a specific property with genuinely comparable sales—or only an area average?
Evidence to obtain—not yet verified here
- Comparable property evidence with transaction dates and relevant differences.
- Current loan terms, household commitments and a realistic cash-flow buffer.
- Property inspections, contract advice and ownership/tax advice where relevant.
Other options: Shortlist another property, retain what you own, reduce the budget or delay. Growth expectations alone are not a reason to proceed.
Next action: Ask a Property Advisor to connect the property evidence with your priorities, and identify the finance, tax or legal professional required for unresolved questions.
When to revisit: Revisit if the price, lending terms, inspection findings or household circumstances change.
General decision guidance—not a property assessment, personal recommendation or verified client result. Dates on surrounding market content apply to that content, not to checks on your property.
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Property Market
$485K
+6.2% 1yr
$320K
+5.8% 1yr
$400/wk
$320/wk
45
1.8%
68.0%
Price Growth
| Type | 1 Year | 3 Year | 5 Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| House | +6.2% | +18.5% | +35.2% |
| Unit | +5.8% | +16.2% | +32.1% |
Rental Yields
House Yield
4.2%
Unit Yield
5.1%
Investment Scorecard
Demand/Supply Ratio: 1.40
Demand exceeds supply — favourable for sellers
Tax & Financial Intelligence
CPA-grade analysis for Maclean at median house price
Stamp Duty Estimate
Save $16,355
+8% surcharge
Negative Gearing Position
Wage offset available until 1 July 2027
An established purchase today falls under the 2026 reforms. From 1 July 2027, losses on established residential property can only offset residential rental income or residential capital gains — not your salary.
$400/wk
Negatively geared
Reduces taxable income until 1 July 2027
~$194/week
Land Tax Exposure
~60% of median price
Below threshold
Annual: $4,356
CPA Note: Land tax applies to your total NSW land holdings, not individual properties. Portfolio holders should aggregate all investment land values.
CGT Projection
Based on 7.0% p.a. growth (from 5-year trend), CPI indexation + 30% minimum rate, 39% MTR
5-Year Hold
10-Year Hold
Investor Quick Summary
Entry cost (stamp duty)
$16,355
After-tax yield
2.56%
Weekly holding cost
$194/wk
10yr CGT (est.)
$121,976
Estimates based on FY2025 NSW rates at median house price. Assumes 80% LVR, 6.5% interest rate, 39% marginal tax rate ($135K-$190K bracket). This calculator provides estimates for illustrative purposes only and does not constitute financial, tax, or investment advice. Results depend on assumptions that may not reflect your actual situation. Tax laws, interest rates, and market conditions change frequently. Always consult a qualified professional — such as a CPA, mortgage broker, or financial adviser — before making financial decisions. Local Knowledge Group of Companies provides integrated advisory through Local Knowledge (CPA), Local Knowledge Finance (Mortgage Brokerage), and Local Knowledge Property (Licensed Agency).
Demographics
3,200
48
$52K
per annum
58.0%
32.0%
22.0%
6.2%
18.0%
Dwelling Mix
Lifestyle & Community
8
6
1
650.0 km
Nearest Station: Casino Railway Station
Peaceful riverside living with recreational boating, fishing, golf, and community events
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Data sourced from multiple sources. Last updated 11 April 2026.