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A first home buyer’s guide to Ellenbrook

Ellenbrook has long been popular with first home buyers looking for affordability, family-friendly living and modern amenities. Located in Perth’s north-eastern corridor, the suburb has evolved into a thriving community with schools, shopping centres, parks and transport links all within easy reach.

With the opening of the Ellenbrook train line and continued growth in the area, Ellenbrook is attracting increasing interest from buyers looking to enter the property market. As Perth continues to grow, Ellenbrook is emerging as an increasingly popular choice for first home buyers. But is it the right suburb for your first home?

Here’s what you need to know.

Where is Ellenbrook?

Ellenbrook is located approximately 30 kilometres north-east of the Perth CBD within the City of Swan. Developed as a master-planned community in the 1990s, the suburb was designed to be largely self-sufficient, with access to schools, shopping, recreation and community facilities.

The suburb is surrounded by popular areas including Aveley, The Vines and Henley Brook, while the nearby Swan Valley offers easy access to wineries, restaurants and weekend attractions.

Why are first home buyers choosing Ellenbrook?

Ellenbrook has become a favourite among first home buyers because it offers a balance of affordability, lifestyle and convenience. The suburb is particularly popular with young families and owner-occupiers seeking more space than inner-city areas can provide.

Many buyers are attracted to Ellenbrook because it offers:

  • Access to modern homes and house and land packages
  • Family-friendly neighbourhoods
  • Parks, playgrounds and open spaces
  • Local schools and childcare facilities
  • Shopping and dining options
  • Improved public transport connections

Its strong sense of community and ongoing infrastructure investment continue to support demand from first home buyers.

What is the property market like in Ellenbrook?

Ellenbrook has experienced strong growth in recent years, with demand increasing as more buyers seek affordable alternatives to inner Perth suburbs. Property prices remain competitive when compared to many established metropolitan areas, making the suburb attractive for first home buyers.

House and land packages remain popular in Ellenbrook, giving buyers the opportunity to build a brand-new home while potentially accessing available grants and incentives.

The suburb also has a high proportion of owner-occupiers, reflecting its appeal as a long-term place to live and raise a family.

What amenities does Ellenbrook offer?

One of Ellenbrook’s biggest strengths is its extensive range of amenities.

Residents have access to shopping centres, supermarkets, cafes, medical services and recreational facilities, with many everyday needs available within the suburb itself. Ellenbrook was designed as a self-sustaining community, reducing the need to travel for essential services.

Families are well catered for with a range of education options, including:

  • Ellenbrook Primary School
  • Ellen Stirling Primary School
  • Ellenbrook Secondary College
  • Holy Cross College

The suburb also features community centres, libraries, sporting facilities and numerous parks and lakes.

How is transport and connectivity?

Transport has historically been one of the biggest considerations for buyers in Ellenbrook, but recent infrastructure investment has significantly improved connectivity.

The Ellenbrook train line opened in late 2024, providing direct rail access to Perth with a journey time of approximately 31 minutes to the CBD. The new line includes regular services and integrated bus connections throughout the area.

Major roads including Gnangara Road and Tonkin Highway also provide convenient access to other parts of Perth.

For many buyers, the arrival of rail has transformed Ellenbrook from an outer suburb into a well-connected community.

Is Ellenbrook a good suburb for first home buyers?

For many first home buyers, the answer is yes.

Ellenbrook combines affordability, established amenities and improving transport links with a strong sense of community. The suburb offers a range of housing options, from house and land packages through to established homes, making it suitable for a variety of budgets and lifestyles.

As Perth continues to grow north and east, Ellenbrook remains a popular choice for buyers looking for value and long-term potential.

Thinking about building in Ellenbrook?

With a wide range of house and land packages available, Ellenbrook offers first home buyers the opportunity to build a home that suits their lifestyle and budget. Understanding your borrowing power and available grants is often the first step towards making home ownership a reality.