Market activity for the first three quarters of 2008 is expected to remain much the same as 2007 for Central Queensland, according to independent property advisors Herron Todd White.

According to the Director of Herron Todd White Central Queensland, Wayne Litherland, this year would see further housing stock in Mackay stock completed and introduced to the market, which should continue to ease tight vacancy levels.

"The better quality inner north suburbs will continue to appeal to owner occupier buyers and we anticipate values will stabilise at around the current levels," Mr Litherland said.

Mr Litherland said that, for Rockhampton, the start to the 2008 year had brought a short term slowing in market activity that was now starting to gather pace.

"We have also had a wet start to the year across a large part of Central Queensland with moderate to major flooding expected in the Fitzroy River at Rockhampton over the Australia Day weekend, and this may be a timely reminder to investors and home owners about the importance of insurance and location when buying," he said.

According to Mr Litherland, it was expected that this year would bring a continuation of the growing market interest in centrally located, older homes in north Rockhampton and a growing number of home unit complexes in central areas of North and South Rockhampton.

"During early 2008 on the Capricorn Coast, a new regional shopping centre is scheduled for completion which, together with the commencement of the new Yeppoon Hospital, will further enhance the liveability of the Capricorn Coast and marketability of the area," Mr Litherland said.

Overall, according to Mr Ltherland, competition will generally increase across all sectors however, with continued population growth, 2008 may see a period of slow to steady growth.

A full Herron Todd White report can be found at www.htw.com.au.

Herron Todd White is Australia's largest independent property advisory and valuation firm with 44 offices across the nation and more than 400 staff.