Written in late January
The peak St Francis Christmas season is now just a wonderful memory … and many of us locals start the eleven month preparation for the next Christmas season!
The population of our town increases by a factor of probably 5x for three weeks, and maybe 10x for the peak Christmas – New year week!
We had another bumper holiday rentals season, and it seems businesses generally are very happy with their season’s trading. For many businesses, the influx of visitors is hugely important for their annual turnover. The hospitality trade probably achieves a few months turnover within a few weeks!
Builders and many sub-contractors have to finish homes in time for the season, as well as many maintenance and upgrades to existing houses.
And so the annual cycle starts again in January!
We at Pam Golding have found over the last 25 years in St Francis that sales are spread fairly evenly throughout the year, at about 10 sales per month. We have always said that if the season goes off well, the property sales will follow in the coming months.
So how was the 2021/2022 season?
Well, given the drought, we were lucky to have water in our taps … and electricity in our plugs! There were no serious fires … or floods! And the trend of lower crime since the introduction of cameras a few years ago continued through the season.
And Billy’s Beach (and other venues) continues to attract the under 25’s (and their families!). And the many sporting and other events (including the Pam Golding Quadrathlon and the Pam Golding Golf Annual) add to the appeal.
And although many people had covid, for most it was thankfully relatively minor. And the beaches and pubs were open for the whole season, unlike 12 months ago.
But …. the water was a bit cold … and the east wind did blow … great for kiteboarding and windsurfing, but a bit tedious at times.
Overall a good season, which should lead to continued strong property demand for our town, particularly now that many metropolitan dwellers want to move to smaller coastal towns, especially ones with the attractions that we have, such as good surfing, golf .. and an upgraded MTB track.
