A leading property analyst has released his list of the real estate hotspots to watch out for in Brisbane's suburbs. Hot-spot suburbs picked last year for their unit price potential recorded an average median price change of 39.9 per cent.

The upper end of the market and suburbs well serviced by transport infrastructure were the stand-out performers, with growth in outer suburbs suggesting demand was fuelled by affordability constraints.

In 2008, Mr Rivera predicts houses in Carindale, Keperra and Carole Park will perform well.

Units in Newstead, Indooroopilly, Hamilton and Milton are a smart bet, while both houses and apartments in Paddington, Red Hill and West End are worth watching.

Now is a good time for buyers to position themselves in the marketplace for higher levels of growth, giving buyers a number of options, Mr Rivera said.

As more and more baby boomers look to downsize and move into inner-city premium apartments, Mr Rivera said he expected the high-end and boutique unit market would continue to outperform the broader unit market.

New developments around the CBD, Hamilton, New Farm, Newstead and West End would be good bets, as stock around these areas was "running out fast", he said.

Older inner-city apartments would attract young families, first homebuyers and investors, and limited stock would likely result in strong price growth, capital gains and rental yields.

Investors have identified the "mature" apartments as BRR properties, or buy, renovate and rent.

Homes in outer areas are appealing to first-home buyers and young families, as well as renters working at nearby employment hubs.

Investors will drive demand in these areas as they try to purchase in a high-yield market with strong capital-growth potential.

The hotspot list was based on current pricing levels, infrastructure, property trends and access to amenities, among other factors.

The Brisbane Times