The rising median price of housing in 2013 and the relatively small number of properties sold once again highlights Dubbo's housing squeeze.
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Prices are being driven up because of a limited supply of properties for sale and competition between investors and owner-occupiers.
The median price of units jumped by 13.4 per cent to 220,000 in the 2013 calendar year. Only 38 units were sold.
The median house price increased 5.1 per cent to 295,000 while 603 houses were sold.
Rents have been steadily rising in price because of a shortage of rental properties.
Real estate agents say the shortage of homes for sale, particularly units is driving the price, pushing them beyond the reach of first home buyers among others.
They say prices will continue to rise under the pressure until there are more flexible housing choices.
They warn if Dubbo's zoning stays as it is, there will be no relief in sight for buyers. Housing will become even less affordable.
The housing squeeze is at the heart of rezoning plans for South Dubbo. The plan would allow for multi dwelling accommodation to be built but there is fierce opposition to the plan.
Residents of South Dubbo are fiercely opposed to the proposal. They are concerned that building unit blocks could have a negative impact on the neighbourhood.
However, even if the residents are successful in stopping the changes, something needs to be done.
Without affordable, flexible housing choices, it is going to be all Dubbo residents that suffer.