SECURITY features are climbing property wish lists for Brisbane homebuyers, alongside traditional lifestyle inclusions.
This coincides with new analysis revealing unlawful entry offences have surged by more than 30 per cent in some suburbs.
A study of Queensland Police crime data by home security provider Titan Shutters shows break-ins across Brisbane number in the thousands, reinforcing buyer focus on surveillance, lighting and secure access.
The data revealed Hendra recorded the highest number of unlawful entry offences in the 12 months to December 1, 2025, with 2156 incidents, followed by Upper Mount Gravatt (1944) and Brisbane City (1934).
The report noted Brisbane City was the only suburb where unlawful entries into non-residential properties exceeded residential incidents, reflecting the different risk profile of CBD environments.
“In the most recent 12-month period, around 70 per cent of unlawful entry incidents were classified under dwelling categories,” the report said. “This highlights that unlawful entry remains a key concern for homeowners rather than businesses alone.”
Longer-term trends also show sharp increases across several suburbs. Over the past three years, Coorparoo recorded the largest rise in break-ins, up 39.29 per cent to 738 offences. The Gap followed with a 36.69 per cent increase, ahead of Carina (34.28 per cent) and Boondall (30.44 per cent).
Titan Shutters chief executive David Spottiswood said the data pointed to a sustained upward trend in many areas, even where short-term fluctuations appeared to ease.
“What stands out is that longer-term offence trends continue to move upward in a number of suburbs,” he said.
“For homeowners, that reinforces the value of security solutions that provide ongoing protection rather than short-term reassurance.”
Buyer advocates say the data is already shaping purchasing decisions.
Hot Property Buyers Agency Co-founder Zoran Solano, said crime awareness had become a routine part of property searches.
“That’s absolutely top of mind for buyers,” Mr Solano said. “Investors are increasingly referencing crime mapping early in the process, and with owner-occupiers it’s a conversation we’re having as we walk through a home.”
Post-purchase, buyers are commonly installing sensor lighting, garage door bolts, security screens, alarms and cameras, with secure fencing and intercom systems also gaining popularity.
Mr Solano said security considerations were particularly pronounced in knockdown-rebuild areas, often located in gentrifying suburbs.
“In these projects, buyers are layering security – from front fencing with intercoms to upgraded window and door systems, and enhanced security for car accommodation,” he said.
“In some higher-end areas, neighbours are even pooling funds for night-time security patrols.”
Traditional Queenslander homes are also falling out of favour for some buyers due to perceived security limitations.
“It’s often harder to secure these properties because of features like casement windows,” Mr Solano said.
“Some buyers are choosing not to purchase Queenslanders at all, or they’re making changes that prioritise security and maintenance, even if it compromises aesthetics.”
