Real estate agents report that November sales topped 100 across the city, apparently for the first time.

November is a strong sales month but this year's figure was an increase of almost 20 per cent on the same time last year.

That sort of figure cannot be an aberration - it must be a sign of real confidence in the region by both residents and investors.

And the fact that comes after several years of Bathurst ranking among the fastest growing areas in regional NSW only makes it more impressive.

What is the surprise thing about the continuing growth in the local real estate market is that it defies a general worry around town that the local economy maybe suffering more than is immediately apparent.

Manufacturing jobs, in particular, have suffered badly in recent years has major local employers have either shut down or wound down their operations.

Again, though, we have reason to be grateful for Bathurst's diversified local economy that means a slowdown in one sector of the market does not cripple the entire area.

While manufacturing has had a rough few years, other sectors including retail, education, construction and even agriculture have been doing quite well.

And the fact Bathurst has never lied heavily on money rolling in from the mining boom means we have not suffered as other towns have as that mining boom inevitably peters out.

Real estate is certainly another sector of the market that continues to punch above its weight is the latest figures confirm.

And with hundreds of new houses on the drawing board around Eglinton and Trinity Heights, local agents can expect a few more busy years yet.

Bathurst is doing better than most regional cities in promoting the region’s assets to a broader market.

The success of Evocities has seen Bathurst capitalise on its proximity to Sydney as a lure for young families seeking to escape congested traffic and sky-high house prices, and Bathurst Regional Council continues to seek out new events and attractions to build the local tourist economy.

There is a lot to like about our city and the message seems to be spreading.

Seems we could remain the state’s best-kept secret for only so long.