With interest rates at an all time low, the market is becoming more accessible to a greater number of investors from all walks of life. The key is to invest in the right area at the right time.

According to Sternbeck's Real Estate director James Harvey, Cessnock's property market is currently one of the most affordable 'buy in' options when compared to surrounding regions.

"Cessnock homes purchased for $300,000 to $400,000 can easily enjoy a rental return of 5 per cent or more in many instances," Mr Harvey said.

Strong rental returns are just one of the benefits of investing in today's market. Not only will the value of your properties continue to increase, rents will also inevitably rise over time, while mortgage values will ultimately decrease in the future.

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In Cessnock, the average house price is currently $375,000, with most homes rented for $350 per week, which equates to an annual rental yield of 4.9 per cent.

Based on five years of previous sales, Cessnock has enjoyed a compound growth rate of 7.6 per cent for houses and 2 per cent for units.

For the keen investor, the numbers are looking good.

"These returns often open doors for you to build a strong portfolio, as the level of equity created through owning one, two, three or more properties generates capacity for borrowing against the first investment to buy another," Mr Harvey said.

There are countless benefits to wisely utilising your property equity for wealth generation, but how do you know how many properties to include in your portfolio?

Mr Harvey says that the answer depends on the degree to which you would like to profit from your portfolio, and whether or not your goal is to retire and live off the returns of your investments.

"Ultimately, it will be likely that a portfolio of six or so properties might be needed to help cover your future living expenses, and to deliver the return that is desired," Mr Harvey said.

For those still in the early stages of building their portfolio, Cessnock properties are a smart place to start, but it always helps to work with an expert who knows the market best. Utilising the services of a local agency such as Sternbeck's Real Estate will ensure that you make the wisest investment possible in the region's highly profitable property landscape.

Prior to purchasing property, it's always best to employ your own financial advisor, someone who can offer counsel on how you should go about building your property portfolio based on your current situation. For more information on the property market in Cessnock visit sternbecks.com.au