Hey Jack
Being in the market constantly provides us with an excellent view of what's happening on the ground- it's really the only definitive way to understand where we're at in any property cycle.
Interestingly, I made a comment on our FB page about this very topic acreage vs Castle Hill recently....
https://www.facebook.com/HouseSearch
(sorry but you'll need to scroll down to Oct 12 to see it- can't figure out how to link directly to this one comment!) I'm seeing good value currently given the whole land content scenario.
Naturally, I love acreage and so am a little biased here however when you're paying the same $$$ for 600sqm vs 20,000sqm for homes only 10-15mins further out it does seem like a no-brainer at times as to what is better value. Having said this, though, acreage living isn't for everyone and each to their own. Personally, I like open spaces and would rather sacrifice a larger newer home for something a little more "lived in" on a quieter block. Acreage market is picking up, though, particularly in the sub $1.5m bracket around Dural, Kenthurst, Annangrove etc which is no surprise really.