As the country hunkered down under the challenges of a global pandemic, real estate sales and prices skyrocketed - particularly here on the South Coast.

Homes would barely hit the market before being snapped up - perhaps by city folk trying to escape to the beauty and seclusion of our region.

Listed below are the Top Five most expensive homes sold during 2021 for which data was available at the time of publishing.

The list is for residential homes, excluding commercial properties, in the main centres of Bega, Bermagui and Merimbula.

Pricing details were sourced by CoreLogic, Australia's most reputable property data companies, while we have also included excerpts from the sales advice provided by the respective real estate agents at the time they were listed.

$1,490,000

55 Stringy Bark Close

Sold May 26 by Sails Real Estate

This immaculately presented 1.5 acre property sits proudly in a sea of grassy rolling hills that overlook the beautiful Bega Valley flats, yet only minutes from the retail and business hub of Bega.

Open plan living space overlooks a beautiful saltwater heated swimming pool. The chef's kitchen with quartz benchtops, extra deep walk in pantry and Miele appliances has a large service window that connects to an indoor/outdoor entertaining space.

A fully soundproof media room, complete with sink and Sonos surround system. Three bedrooms with robes, study/office, laundry and the master suite. This amazing space features a walk-in robe fit for a celebrity and enormous en-suite with his and hers vanities, walk in shower and full-sized bath and more.

"Man Cave" is an understatement when it comes to the triple bay work shed. Full length built-in work bench, woodfire heater, fully enclosed bathroom with shower, toilet and vanity - room galore for all manner of 'toys',

$1,175,000

88 Kerrisons Lane

Sold November 27 by Elders Real Estate

Quality built 5 bedroom, 2 bathroom home with 2 separate large living areas along with front and rear undercover entertaining areas. High ceilings, 5kVa solar system, double car garage, separate shedding, stockyards, gardens, fruit trees along with just over 13 acres of clean grazing land.

The location is superb only minutes from Bega, heading towards the coast at Tathra. Stunning, quality built residence in a great location.

$1,000,000

10 Redgum Close

Sold October 12, by Bega Valley Realty

Two homes for the price of one. You can own this superbly built two storey five bedroom three bathroom double lock up garage brick home, with an enormous games room or man cave or teenagers retreat downstairs on one acre of land.

Located just on the edge of town this property also has a very spacious one bedroom one bathroom granny flat with its own metre box, a four car garage and a carport. This is one of those properties that just keeps on giving.

$960,000

121 Kisimul Road - Sold April 23

$950,000

107 Kisimul Road - Sold April 7

$1.46 million

75 Murrah Street

Sold September 21 by Julie Rutherford Real Estate

North facing, amazing views and development potential. Located in one of Bermagui's most sought after positions this recently renovated and extended coastal cottage is full of style, charm and natural light. The original home has had a tasteful modern addition and provides a self-contained and separate living space.

Features include a choice of three separate living areas, taking full advantage of the location and sunny aspect; two undercover timber decks ideal for outdoor entertaining; and original timber floors in the main cottage.

$1.41 million

6 Young Street

Sold September 8 by Julie Rutherford Real Estate

The best verandah views in the world! Charming 1930s cottage and large shed in one of the most sought after positions in Bermagui.

Light and comfortable, the property comprises two bedrooms with extra living rooms/sunrooms, large covered verandah and easy level access to rear garden. Huge boat/caravan shed with access from rear laneway and large, sunny, fenced rear garden.

Stunning panoramic views of Bermagui Bay and Gulaga Mountain and only a short walk to Horseshoe Bay Beach and all town facilities.

$1.245 million

98 Lamont Street

Sold March 12 by Marshall and Tacheci

A double brick spacious home with commanding views out to sea. Offering both front and rear lane access, this well positioned, four bedroom (all with built in robes), three bathroom home, is set on a large fully landscaped 1072m2 block.

$1.057 million

136-138 Murrah Street - Sold June 25 by Julie Rutherford Real Estate

$1.032 million

7 Alexander Drive - Sold February 12 by Julie Rutherford Real Estate

$2.45 million

14 Main Street

Sold April 17, by One Agency Dwyer Properties

Nestled in the highly sought after and tightly held Merimbula lake waterfront precinct. This exclusive waterfront sanctuary offers complete privacy, panoramic views, and a private jetty.

This spacious three-bedroom, single-level home features large living, kitchen, and dining areas that flow seamlessly out to generous entertaining areas, a private jetty, and an extra-large yard for the kids and pets. With the sought-after bonus feature of a two-car garage plus workspace, there is plenty of room for the boat and caravan.

With multiple outdoor areas, you are sure to find your own special spot and follow the sun as it moves around this spectacular home while embracing the breathtaking Merimbula Lake views.

$2.05 million

24 Ocean Drive

Sold April 9, by One Agency Dwyer Properties

A fantastic opportunity to live right on the beach of the beautiful Sapphire Coast. The amazing blue waters of Merimbula's Main Beach are only a short stroll from the property and the home adjoins the beachside reserve.

This three storey luxury residence is incomplete but has been built to the highest standards. The finished home will consist of five bedrooms, a study, three bathrooms, multiple living areas, and decks, as well as a swimming pool. The purchaser will have the option of selecting the fittings and fixtures they desire and finishing the construction to suit their tastes.

$2 million

30 Ocean Drive

Sold April 27 by One Agency Dwyer Properties

From the moment you enter this gated paradise, you'll be swept up in a truly coastal atmosphere. Classic features of beachside living can be enjoyed in multiple aspects of the home including fabulous entertaining areas of upper and lower decks, chefs kitchen plus a terrific rumpus/entertainment room that opens to a delightful outdoor space giving direct access to the beach. Multiple bathrooms provide en-suite facilities that are indulgent and ocean views continue to please.

$1.73 million

8-10 Burton Ave - Sold July 29 by Merimbula Realty

$1.69 million

19 Ocean Drive - Sold August 27, by One Agency Dwyer Properties