Getting into the property market can be tough if you’re looking at the swanky inner-suburbs of a capital city.

But for those prepared to venture further afield, whether to the outer suburbs or into regional towns, there may yet be bargains available.

Some have seen strong capital growth due to factors like the mining boom that has seen property prices spike in communities previously considered sleepy and remote.

In today’s edition of The New Daily, we take at look at 10 homes across the nation that are on the market for around $500,000.

We’ve picked this figure because it roughly equates to the budget of your average first-home buyer.

Housing affordability has been a prominent issue in Australia for the last decade or so, so our report aims to provide some useful insights into the diversity of residential property prices in this country.

From the chilly climes of Tasmania, to the tropical tranquility of Far North Queensland, to the busy suburbs of Melbourne and Sydney and the remote townships of Western Australia and the Northern Territory — we are truly a diverse country, and this is reflected in our property market.

6 Poinciana Bvd, Cardwell, QLD

4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 car spaces

About Cardwell: Pretty little coastal town on the Bruce Highway, roughly halfway between Cairns and Townsville. Used to be quite sleepy before development came in the form of Port Hinchinbrook. Agriculture and tourism are the main industries.

* AGENT SAYS: This modern home features a very practical layout with lots of living space. There is a large ensuite off the main bedroom with an open plan kitchen/lounge/dining area opening onto the tiled front patio/entertaining area with views over the marina to beautiful Hinchinbrook Island. Enjoy the natural sea breezes and be pampered in summer with split system air conditioning throughout.

6/65 Birriga Rd, Bellevue Hill, Sydney, NSW

1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, 0 car space

About Bellevue Hill: Affluent suburb in Sydney’s east, about 5km from the CBD. Close to the iconic neighbourhoods of Double Bay and Bondi. Residents have included actor Toni Collette, the late Kerry Packer and former prime minister, the late Billy McMahon.

* AGENT SAYS: This apartment’s classic art deco charm and chic vintage flavour make it a standout for the first home buyer or investor. It offers a superb entry to a blue-ribbon address. Close to both Rose Bay harbour and Bondi Beach attractions with public transport nearby, this character-filled home’s fresh interiors are complemented by original period features and a leafy outlook.

29 Burns St, Hamilton, VIC

3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, 4 car spaces

About Hamilton: Agricultural town with strong sheep grazing links in Victoria’s historic Western District. About 300km from Melbourne. Former prime minister Malcolm Fraser lived on the nearby station of Nareen. 

* AGENT SAYS: This fine Victorian home is on about 3,174 square metres and is minutes from the CBD. It is a combination of classic period features offering absolute privacy with its high front fence and is positioned in a superb park-like setting. Outside is especially attractive with a landscaped garden including a fully-fenced synthetic tennis court, plus a huge separate block with a bore well. This superb character home exudes warmth and charm.

13 Pitt St, West Footscray, VIC

2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, 2 car spaces

About West Footscray: Approximately 7km from Melbourne CBD. Traditionally a working class suburb, now notable for being a multicultural hub.  Home to the Western Bulldogs AFL team.

* AGENT SAYS: In the West Footscray precinct. Nestled in a quiet, tree-lined street is this period beauty. Harmoniously updated adding to the home’s traditional charm. Open, spacious, light-filled kitchen, dining and lounge-room. Magnificently maintained, with a cottage garden setting.

318 Murray St, North Hobart, TAS

3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, 0 car spaces

About North Hobart: Considered ‘rough’ until 20-odd years ago, the area has benefited from investment and is now home to a thriving restaurant and cafe scene. Like many parts of Australia that were traditionally working class, it now has a distinct multicultural flavour.

* AGENT SAYS: This beautiful Victorian home could be great for those looking to live close to the city. While the exterior is attractive, the inside is truly impressive having undergone a grand renovation. Period features abound. The home attracts good sun, with the upper level enjoying a lovely view extending over the city to the mighty Derwent River. The grounds are private, sunny and boost the home’s appeal.

6 Rapide Ride, Kingscote (Kangaroo Island), South Australia

4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 3 car spaces

About Kingscote: Main town on Kangaroo Island and the access point for many mainland visitors. Economy linked with tourism, commercial fishing and agriculture. Residents include a colony of little penguins.

* AGENT SAYS: This beautiful sandstone home brings the creature comforts of modern living to the seaside. French doors open out from the family room to the back verandah under a main roof perfect for Alfresco dining and entertaining in private. Landscaped and paved yard with a small garden/tool shed plus a large shed ideal for boat and cars. Backing onto the attractive Lovering Reserve means added privacy and a lovely nearby park. An easy stroll to the foreshore and beach.

26 Carlisle St, Ethelton (Adelaide), SA

4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 6 car spaces

About Ethelton: Located in Adelaide’s north-west, close to the better-known commercial hub of Port Adelaide. Features include the Jervois Bridge over the Port River. There is a railway station linking Ethelton with the suburban rail network.

* AGENT SAYS: This property is zoned residential /commercial with the main house being brick with a beautiful sandstone frontage. There is an attic with a pull-down staircase. Chic modern kitchen with white bench tops and stainless steel appliances. Patio doors open on to an entertaining area with a sparkling pool. Close to the beach, local shopping, public transport and good local schools. Walking distance to the Semaphore Road shopping precinct.

505 Hunt Way, Bulgarra (Karratha), WA

About Bulgarra: WA township about 1500km from Perth. Part of Karratha, which adjoins the port of Dampier. The region has strong links with iron ore mining and other natural resources projects.

3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, 1 car space

* AGENT SAYS: Situated opposite Bulgarra oval, this home is ideal for family living. Currently on a short term lease, it would be good for buying now and moving into later. The Karratha market is currently undergoing a market correction – something seen several times during the past 15 years – but rental demand is increasing, suggesting things are improving.

6 Bergman Cres, Katherine, NT

3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 2 car spaces

About Katherine: Little town about 320km south-east of Darwin. Close to RAAF Tindal base. Strong links with the tourism and mining sectors.

* AGENT SAYS: This is a stunning elevated home and perfect for dealing with the hot climate of the Top End. It has many features including a decked spa and entertainment area, two upstairs balconies, expansive living areas and immaculate gardens.

15 Selwyn Pine Rd, Norfolk Island, South Pacific

3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, 2 car spaces

About Norfolk Island: Self-governing territory in the Pacific Ocean, about 1400km east of the Australian mainland, population about 2000. Many residents descended from Tourism is the major industry.

* AGENT SAYS: This high-set home is solar-powered and built on 1.2 hectares with commanding views of the Pacific Ocean. It has covered wrap-around verandahs ideal for entertaining. Proximity to the national park is an additional attraction. Other features are a creek boundary out the back, sealed road frontage and landscaped grounds.