The centre of Mooroolbark is going through a big transformation and residents can clearly see the changes taking place. The new train station is complete and looks great. The roads have been widened and resealed, and lots of new homes are being built in the area bringing in new people and fresh energy.

Here are 5 reasons why buying in central Mooroolbark is a smart idea:

1. You get the city and the country

Mooroolbark is part of Melbourne, so you are close to the cafes and shops you would expect from the city, yet you are only 10-15 minutes away from the Yarra Valley and Warburton ranges. So you can grab an espresso in the morning, buy your fruit and vegies direct from the growers at lunchtime and then have dinner at a wonderful winery.

2. Close to transport links like the train and roads

Mooroolbark has its own train station and outside it is the bus interchange, so you can catch public transport with ease. It is also located close to the Maroondah Highway and Eastlink, so getting from A to B is easy.

3. Property values are steadily rising

Property prices in neighbouring suburbs like Ringwood and Croydon are really taking off so it is only a matter of time before Mooroolbark experiences similar prices due to the ripple effect. So get in front of the ripple and buy before the wave crashes and prices explode.

4. Growing population

There is lots of new housing being built around the Mooroolbark town centre which is bringing in new residents and growing the local population. This in turn brings in new businesses like cafes and shops, and helps grow the whole area. The suburb needs new homes as there is a very low vacancy rate of less than one percent so people looking to rent are having a tough time finding somewhere to live.

5. There is a miniature railway

There are not too many suburbs that have their own miniature railway like the Mooroolbark and District Miniature Railway and Steam Club. What better way to spend some time than jumping on a mini train and whizzing around the tiny tracks! http://mmr.org.au/wordpress/

What other things make Mooroolbark great?