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<img src="/images/stories/2012/09/3point6percent.gif">
The median gross rental yield landlords are securing for houses in Melbourne, according to<a target="_blank" href="https://www.myrp.com.au/"> RP Data. </a> The median house price was $495,000 in August.
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<img src="/images/stories/2012/09/4point3percent.gif">
The median gross rental yield landlords are securing for houses in Adelaide, according to<a target="_blank" href="https://www.myrp.com.au/"> RP Data.</a> The median house price was $386,000 in August.
 
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The median gross rental yield landlords are securing for houses in Sydney, according to<a target="_blank" href="https://www.myrp.com.au/"> RP Data.</a> The median house price was $590,750 in August.
 
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<img src="/images/stories/2012/09/4point5percent.gif">
The median gross rental yield landlords are securing for houses in Perth, according to<a target="_blank" href="https://www.myrp.com.au/"> RP Data.</a> The median house price was $465,000 in August.
 
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<img src="/images/stories/2012/09/4point5percent.gif"> 
The median gross rental yield landlords are securing for houses in Canberra, according to<a target="_blank" href="https://www.myrp.com.au/"> RP Data.</a> The median house price was $540,000. 
 
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<img src="/images/stories/2012/09/4point7percent.gif"> 
The median gross rental yield landlords are securing for houses in Brisbane, according to<a target="_blank" href="https://www.myrp.com.au/" style="font-size: 13px;"> RP Data.</a> The median house price was $430,000 in August.
 
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The median gross rental yield landlords are securing for houses in Hobart, according to<a target="_blank" href="https://www.myrp.com.au/"> RP Data.</a> The median house price was $285,000 in August.
 
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<img src="/images/stories/2012/09/5point8percent.gif">
The median gross rental yield landlords are securing for houses in Darwin, according to<a target="_blank" href="https://www.myrp.com.au/"> RP Data.</a> The median house price was $545,000 in August. 
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cknowlton-QnEa6ntUYP

Melbourne landlords still reaping lowest rental returns for houses: RP Data state-by-state analysis

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Jindabyne, in the Snowy River Council area of New South Wales, leads the regional NSW list compiled by RP Data of suburbs where it is cheaper to buy a unit than to rent one.
RP Data compared the cost of a mortgage vs the cost of renting in four different ways: 1, Principal and interest loan on a variable mortgage rate; 2. Interest-only loan on a variable mortgage rate; 3. Principal and interest loan on a three-year fixed mortgage rate; and 4. Interest-only loan on a three year fixed mortgage rate.
The data contains both units and houses, but in most suburbs on the list it is cheaper to buy a unit than buy one.
The comparison does not take into consideration stamp duty, associated buying costs and strata fees, where applicable.
The median unit asking rent in Jindabyne is $450 a week, according to RP Data, which estimates it is $755 cheaper per month to buy a unit with a principal and interest variable mortgage than rent one.
Click to enlarge
<a rel="shadowbox" href="/images/stories/2012/08/rpaug31.gif" title="Click to enlarge"><img src="/images/stories/2012/08/rpaug31thumb.gif"></a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.myrp.com.au/buyorrent">For the full list of all suburbs, </a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.myrp.com.au/buyorrent">visit RP Data's website.</a>
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The regional NSW suburbs where it is cheaper to buy than rent: RP Data

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A five-bedroom non-waterfront Mosman house that sold before auction for $3.4 million leads this week's sales, according to RP Data.
McGrath selling agent Nigel Mukhi describes it as "flawlessly detailed" in its marketing. The 699-square-metre property has a sheltered terrace and swimming pool, a double garage and Middle Harbour views. 
The property last sold for $3.2 million in 2007, according to RP Data. In its most recent sales campaign it had $3.5 million-plus price hopes.
Seven of the top 10 sales of the week were in New South Wales this week, with two in Victoria and one in South Australia.
 1. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.myrp.com.au/n/157-raglan-street-mosman-nsw-2088/myrp-490?propertyId=4502134">157 Raglan Street, Mosman, NSW, 2088</a>, five-bedroom house, sold prior to auction on September 1 by McGrath Estate Agents for $3.4 million
2. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.myrp.com.au/n/14-harbour-street-mosman-nsw-2088/myrp-490?propertyId=4485690">14 Harbour Street, Mosman, NSW, 2088</a>, four-bedroom house, sold prior to auction on September 1 by McGrath Estate Agents for $3.375 million
3. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.myrp.com.au/n/13-millicent-avenue-toorak-vic-3142/myrp-490?propertyId=13586764">13 Millicent Avenue, Toorak, VIC, 3142</a>, three-bedroom house, sold at auction on September 1 by Marshall White Armadale for $3.16 million
4. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.myrp.com.au/n/44-sunnyside-road-glen-osmond-sa-5064/myrp-490?propertyId=9601487">44 Sunnyside Road, Glen Osmond, SA, 5064</a>, four-bedroom house, sold at auction on August 29 by Harcourts Brock Williams for $2.85 million
5. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.myrp.com.au/n/19-18-college-street-darlinghurst-nsw-2010/myrp-490?propertyId=16001214">19/18 College Street, Darlinghurst, NSW, 2010</a>, two-bedroom unit, sold on August 30 by Belle Property Surry Hills for $2.41 million
6. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.myrp.com.au/n/6-cevu-avenue-willoughby-nsw-2068/myrp-490?propertyId=7592695">6 Cevu Avenue, Willoughby, NSW, 2068</a>, five-bedroom house, sold at auction on September 1 by McGrath Estate Agents for $2.3 million
7. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.myrp.com.au/n/5-35-william-street-double-bay-nsw-2028/myrp-490?propertyId=2119353">5/35 William Street, Double Bay, NSW, 2028</a>, three-bedroom unit, sold at auction on August 28 by BradfieldCleary for $2.2 million
8. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.myrp.com.au/n/1-canisius-close-pymble-nsw-2073/myrp-490?propertyId=5639145">1 Canisius Close, Pymble, NSW, 2073</a>, six-bedroom house, sold at auction on September 1 by Ray White Burns &amp; Burns for $2.16 million
9. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.myrp.com.au/n/41-smarts-crescent-burraneer-nsw-2230/myrp-490?propertyId=1647217">41 Smarts Crescent, Burraneer, NSW, 2230</a>, five-bedroom house, sold prior to auction on August 30 by Highland Property Agents for $2.15 million
10. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.myrp.com.au/n/24-cromwell-road-south-yarra-vic-3141/myrp-490?propertyId=13133044">24 Cromwell Road, South Yarra, VIC, 3141</a>, three-bedroom house, sold at auction on September 1 by Marshall White &amp; Co for $2.15 million
 
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Mosman non-waterfront leads top 10 sales of the week: RP Data

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Property Observer has scoured the most well-known mortgage comparison websites to determine the lowest variable rate home loan and one- and three-year fixed home loans currently available.
The following results are based on advertised mortgage rates listed by <a href="https://www.ratecity.com.au/" target="_blank">ratecity.com.au</a>, <a href="https://mozo.com.au/" target="_blank">Mozo.com.au</a> and <a href="https://www.infochoice.com.au/" target="_blank">infochoice.com.au</a> as of September 3:
Lowest variable rate offerings:
<table width="470" border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td width="158" valign="top">
Provider
</td>
<td width="151" valign="top">
Loan name
</td>
<td width="123" valign="top">
Rate
</td>
<td width="132" valign="top">
Comparison rate*
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="158" valign="top">
UBank (NAB)
</td>
<td width="151" valign="top">
UHomeloan Refinance
</td>
<td width="123" valign="top">
5.62%
</td>
<td width="132" valign="top">
5.62%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="158" valign="top">
Loans.com.au
</td>
<td width="151" valign="top">
Dream Catcher
</td>
<td width="123" valign="top">
5.65%
</td>
<td width="132" valign="top">
6%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="158" valign="top">
My Mortgage Freedom
</td>
<td width="151" valign="top">
Low Rate +
</td>
<td width="123" valign="top">
5.66%
</td>
<td width="132" valign="top">
5.97%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="158" valign="top">
Mortgage View
</td>
<td width="151" valign="top">
Mortgage View Pro Pack
</td>
<td width="123" valign="top">
5.7%
</td>
<td width="132" valign="top">
5.71%
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
Lowest one-year fixed-rate offerings
<table width="470" border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td width="137" valign="top">
Provider
</td>
<td width="123" valign="top">
Loan name
</td>
<td width="95" valign="top">
Rate
</td>
<td width="114" valign="top">
Comparison rate*
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="137" valign="top">
My Mortgage Freedom
</td>
<td width="123" valign="top">
Residential fixed one year
</td>
<td width="95" valign="top">
5.44%
</td>
<td width="114" valign="top">
6.06
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="137" valign="top">
CUA
</td>
<td width="123" valign="top">
Residential fixed one year
</td>
<td width="95" valign="top">
5.5%
</td>
<td width="114" valign="top">
6.22%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="137" valign="top">
Newcastle Permanent
</td>
<td width="123" valign="top">
Residential fixed one year
</td>
<td width="95" valign="top">
5.59%
</td>
<td width="114" valign="top">
6.24%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="137" valign="top">
IMB
</td>
<td width="123" valign="top">
Platinum Residential fixed $200k+
</td>
<td width="95" valign="top">
5.64%
</td>
<td width="114" valign="top">
6.58%
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
Lowest three-year fixed-rate offerings
<table width="470" border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td width="133" valign="top">
Provider
</td>
<td width="133" valign="top">
Loan name
</td>
<td width="97" valign="top">
Rate
</td>
<td width="108" valign="top">
Comparison rate*
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="133" valign="top">
My Mortgage Freedom
</td>
<td width="133" valign="top">
My mortgage freedom. fixed rate
</td>
<td width="97" valign="top">
5.44%
</td>
<td width="108" valign="top">
6.06%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="133" valign="top">
Newcastle Permanent
</td>
<td width="133" valign="top">
Three-year fixed rate
</td>
<td width="97" valign="top">
5.59%
</td>
<td width="108" valign="top">
6.24%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="133" valign="top">
Resi Home Loans
</td>
<td width="133" valign="top">
FlexiFix 75 three-year
</td>
<td width="97" valign="top">
5.69%
</td>
<td width="108" valign="top">
5.94%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="133" valign="top">
Suncorp
</td>
<td width="133" valign="top">
My Home Package
</td>
<td width="97" valign="top">
5.72%
</td>
<td width="108" valign="top">
6.46%
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
*A comparison rate includes both the interest rate and the fees and charges relating to a loan, combined into a single percentage figure.
For information on refinancing, watch our free webinar <a href="/news">Refinancing and the Interest Rates Riddle</a>
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Twelve of the lowest mortgage rates, fixed and variable, from 5.62%

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The west coast Tasmanian town of Queenstown leads the regional Tasmanian list compiled by RP Data of suburbs where it is cheaper to buy a unit than to rent one. 
RP Data compared the cost of a mortgage vs the cost of renting in four different ways: 1, Principal and interest loan on a variable mortgage rate; 2. Interest-only loan on a variable mortgage rate; 3. Principal and interest loan on a three-year fixed mortgage rate; and 4. Interest-only loan on a three year fixed mortgage rate.
The data contains both units and houses, but in most suburbs on the list it is cheaper to buy a unit than buy one. 
The comparison does not take into consideration stamp duty, associated buying costs and strata fees, where applicable.
The median house asking rent in Queenstown is $150 a week, according to RP Data, which estimates it is $140 cheaper per month to buy a house with a principal and interest variable mortgage than rent one.
Click to enlarge
<a title="Click to enlarge" rel="shadowbox" href="/images/stories/2012/08/rpsept37.gif"><img src="/images/stories/2012/08/rpsept37thumb.gif"></a>
<a href="https://www.myrp.com.au/buyorrent" target="_blank">For the full list of all suburbs, </a><a href="https://www.myrp.com.au/buyorrent" target="_blank">visit RP Data's website.</a>
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The regional Tasmanian localities where it is cheaper to buy than rent: RP Data

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The regional South Australian town of Whyalla leads the regional South Australian list compiled by RP Data of suburbs where it is cheaper to buy a unit than to rent one.
RP Data compared the cost of a mortgage vs the cost of renting in four different ways: 1, Principal and interest loan on a variable mortgage rate; 2. Interest-only loan on a variable mortgage rate; 3. Principal and interest loan on a three-year fixed mortgage rate; and 4. Interest-only loan on a three year fixed mortgage rate.
The data contains both units and houses, but in most suburbs on the list it is cheaper to buy a unit than buy one.
The comparison does not take into consideration stamp duty, associated buying costs and strata fees, where applicable.
The median unit asking rent in Whyalla is $220 a week, according to RP Data, which estimatesit is $36 cheaper per month to buy a unit with a principal and interest variable mortgage than rent one.
Click to enlarge
<a href="/images/stories/2012/08/rpsept35.gif" rel="shadowbox" title="Click to enlarge"><img src="/images/stories/2012/08/rpsept35thumb.gif"></a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.myrp.com.au/buyorrent">For the full list of all suburbs, </a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.myrp.com.au/buyorrent">visit RP Data's website.</a>
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The South Australian regional localities where it is cheaper to buy than rent: RP Data

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<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/queensland-and-nsw-dominate-the-rp-data-suburb-locations-where-it-is-cheaper-to-buy-than-rent/2012082856283" target="_blank"><img src="/images/stories/2012/08/238.gif"></a>
The<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/queensland-and-nsw-dominate-the-rp-data-suburb-locations-where-it-is-cheaper-to-buy-than-rent/2012082856283" target="_blank"> number of suburbs across Australia where it is cheaper to buy a home with a principal and variable interest rate mortgage than to rent one,</a> according to RP Data.  It's the outcome of home values being 5.9% lower than their previous highs and rental rates having continued to increase across most regions of the country.
 
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<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/new-south-wales/ethical-investor-peter-hall-relists-customs-house-double-bay/2012082656200" target="_blank"><img src="/images/stories/2012/08/4point5mplus.gif"></a>
The<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/new-south-wales/ethical-investor-peter-hall-relists-customs-house-double-bay/2012082656200" target="_blank"> price hopes Peter Hall, from Hunter Hall, has for his Double Bay property</a>. Hall has decided he’s staying in London for the time being, and his 1860 Customs House property didn't sell when listed late last year.
 
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<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/victoria/the-simsons-sell-hawthorn-s-hartland/2012082756261" target="_blank"><img src="/images/stories/2012/08/3point3m.gif"></a>
The price<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/victoria/the-simsons-sell-hawthorn-s-hartland/2012082756261" target="_blank"> Stuart and Anne Simson secured for Hartland</a>, their grand Hawthorn home. 
 
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<img src="/images/stories/2012/08/8percent.gif">
The amount <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/property-ownership-contributes-more-to-australia-s-gdp-than-mining-cameron-kusher/2012082756250" target="_blank">of Australia's GDP that home ownership contributes.</a> This compares with only 7.7% for mining. 
 
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<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/land/new-cars-%2410000-cheques-and-free-home-size-upgrades-six-spring-incentives-from-house-and-land-developers-and-builders/2012082756256" target="_blank"><img src="/images/stories/2012/08/10k.gif"></a>
The amount of money Stockland will give buyers of its house-and-land packages. <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/land/new-cars-%2410000-cheques-and-free-home-size-upgrades-six-spring-incentives-from-house-and-land-developers-and-builders/2012082756256" target="_blank">It is one of a number of developers offering incentives</a> to try and encourage sales in the lead-up to the spring selling season. Incentives include cash handouts, new cars, free house upsizings and zero deposit home loans.
 
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<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/victoria/grand-mt-eliza-home-passed-up-by-hugh-jackman-listed-for-auction/2012082956284" target="_blank"><img src="/images/stories/2012/08/6m.gif"></a>
The<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/victoria/grand-mt-eliza-home-passed-up-by-hugh-jackman-listed-for-auction/2012082956284" target="_blank"> price hopes for a Mount Eliza house </a>when it was inspected (and passed up) by Hugh Jackman in 2010. It has recently been listed for September 9 mortgagee auction. 
 
<hr>
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/leisure/chinese-investors-eyeing-up-sunland-s-%2460-million-plus-palazzo-versace-on-gold-coast/2012082956306" target="_blank"><img src="/images/stories/2012/08/60mplus.gif"></a>
The <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/leisure/chinese-investors-eyeing-up-sunland-s-%2460-million-plus-palazzo-versace-on-gold-coast/2012082956306" target="_blank">price expectations for the Palazzo Versace hotel</a>. A Chinese group is doing due diligence and considering its acquisition of the luxury Gold Coast hotel.
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The 7 must-know numbers of the week, starting with the number of suburbs where it is cheaper to buy than rent

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3/31 Dover Road, Williamstown, Vic 3016
<img src="/images/stories/2012/08/doverrd.jpg">
The tenants of this one-bedroom apartment are paying $1,213 a month and are on a lease until March of next year. The ground-floor unit is within walking distance of The Strand Waterfront, Douglas Parade shops and cafes, as well as the train station. 
Williams Real Estate agent Lauren Montebello <a href="https://www.williamsre.com.au/property-details.aspx?id=4369&amp;from=searchlisting" target="_blank">is marketing the property</a> with price hopes of $280,000 plus, and if it sells for that price, that would secure an investor a gross rental yield of 5.2% at its current rent, well above the gross rental yield for Williamstown houses of 3.7%, according to RP Data. The gross rental yield does not consider the costs of maintaining the property, including council rates and other fees such as water bills and managing agent fees.
<a target="_blank" href="https://calc.washingtonbrown.com.au/wbdcalculator/calculator.aspx?RID=HPCAZOPTTT">Washington Brown</a> estimates the first-year tax depreciation deduction to be $4,000 and over five years to be $11,000.
The median house price in Williamstown fell 3.3% in the past year but rose 33.8% in the past five years, according to RP Data.
The property will go to auction Saturday, September 1 at 12.30pm.
For more information about prices and yields in <a href="/news">Williamstown, see the RP Data suburb page.</a>
For another investment prospect going to auction this weekend, see page 2.
<hr>
8 Henderson Street, Merrylands, NSW, 2160
<img src="/images/stories/2012/08/henderson.jpg" width="470">
The tenants of this two-bedroom house have been in residence for 15 years and are paying $425 a week. Laing + Simmons listing agent Jas Singh says it could potentially fetch $10 or $15 more a week but that the vendor is happy to have a stable tenant rather than insist upon market rent. The weatherboard cottage on 525 square metres has high ceilings, a garage and a small study. 
Singh <a href="https://www.laingsimmons.com.au/residential-sales/95012-8-henderson-street" target="_blank">is marketing the property</a> with price hopes in the "early to  mid-$400,000s", and if it sells for  $450,000 it would secure an investor a gross rental yield of 4.9%, about at the median gross rental yield for Merrylands houses of4.6%, according to RP Data. The gross rental yield does not consider the costs of maintaining the property, including council rates and other fees such as water bills and managing agent fees.
<a target="_blank" href="https://calc.washingtonbrown.com.au/wbdcalculator/calculator.aspx?RID=HPCAZOPTTT">Washington Brown</a> estimates the first-year tax depreciation deduction to be $3,000 and over five years to be $6,000.
The median house price in Merrylands rose 1.1% in the past year and rose 24.7% in the past five years, according to RP Data.
The property will be open for inspection Saturday, September 1 at 11.15 and will go to auction Saturday, September 22 at noon.
For more information about prices and yields in <a target="_blank" href="/news">Merrylands, see the RP Data suburb page.</a>
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Friday form guide: Yields of up to 5.2% in Williamstown

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Vendors were able to sell their properties in July without discounting as steeply as they did in June in most capitals, according to data released by Australian Property Monitors this week. 
The amount of discounting required fell slightly in Sydney (from 6.7% to 6.4%), Melbourne (7.5% to 7.3%) and Canberra (5.2% to 5%).
The drop was a little more pronounced in Brisbane (7.9% to 7.5%) and Hobart (10.2% to 9.7%). 
The average amount of discounting increased sharply in Darwin (from 5.5% to 6.5%), which was also the only capital city <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/mixed-results-as-property-took-longer-to-sell-in-july-than-in-june-in-all-state-capitals-apm/2012082856282" target="_blank">where the number of days property lingered on the market increased</a>. 
The amount of discounting remained virtually the same in Adelaide (from 7.6% to 7.7%) and Perth (from 6.4% to 6.5%).
Click to enlarge
<a title="Click to enlarge" href="/images/stories/2012/08/apmaug30.jpg" rel="shadowbox"><img src="/images/stories/2012/08/apmaug30thumb.jpg"></a>
Source: APM
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Property discounting down in most capitals: APM

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There were 854 sales in Perth this week, up from 559 the same week last year, according to the Real Estate Institute of Western Australia. 
<a target="_blank" href="https://reiwaviews.com.au/"><img src="/images/stories/2012/08/reiwaaug30.gif"></a>
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Perth sales up 52% on same week last year: REIWA

Camberwell Junction has long been the epicentre of amenity in Melbourne’s Boroondara region.

For nearly a century, it has drawn both locals and visitors, anchored by the Camberwell Sunday Market, which first operated in 1929 and quickly became a fixture of the suburb’s identity. Over time, the Junction evolved into one of Melbourne’s most established retail and lifestyle precincts, now comprising more than 400 stores and over 300 commercial businesses.

Despite that depth of amenity, one thing has remained notably limited: the supply of new apartments.

In a suburb defined by its heritage streetscapes and tightly held residential stock, new development opportunities have been scarce, particularly within the core of the Junction itself. That lack of supply has left a gap in the market for larger, design-led apartments suited to downsizers and owner-occupiers wanting to remain in the area.

Boutique developer Above Zero identified that gap when it secured a prime site on Burke Road, in the heart of Camberwell Junction.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4896 project_image_fid=368543]

The site has a long planning history. Various proposals have been put forward over more than a decade, many of which were knocked back by the City of Boroondara, with initial applications dating back to 2015. Above Zero acquired the site in 2022 and returned with a revised scheme, refining both the building’s height and its ground-level interface to better align with Council expectations.

That process has culminated in approval for Camberwell House.

The Cera Stribley-designed development will deliver 57 residences on a 1,950 sqm site within the Camberwell Activity Centre, placing it directly within one of Melbourne’s most established retail and transport hubs.

It is expected to be one of the only new apartment developments to launch in the Junction in recent years, reinforcing the rarity of new supply in the precinct. Currently, there are just a handful of projects on the market in Camberwell, underscoring the significance of a development of this scale and positioning.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4896 project_image_fid=368544]

Camberwell House has been conceived with a clear focus on larger-format apartments. The project will offer a mix of two-, three- and four-bedroom residences, alongside a limited number of penthouses, targeting owner-occupiers seeking scale rather than volume-driven product.

The building’s vertical presence will also set it apart.

Positioned on Burke Road, the development is set to become one of the taller buildings in its immediate context, allowing for elevated outlooks across Melbourne’s CBD skyline and toward the Dandenong Ranges. In a precinct characterised by lower-scale built form, that height provides a point of differentiation, particularly for buyers seeking outlook and natural light.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4896 project_image_fid=368568]

Architecture has been led by Cera Stribley, with interiors by GOLDEN and landscape design by Florian Wild. The design approach centres on material consistency and restraint, with residences oriented to maximise light, ventilation and connection to outdoor spaces.

Full-height glazing and generous terraces form a key part of that strategy, allowing apartments to extend beyond their internal footprint and engage with the surrounding environment.

Beyond the private residences, a significant component of the project is its amenity offering.

Above Zero has positioned Camberwell House as a “complete living environment”, incorporating a full floor dedicated to resident facilities. At the centre of that is a wellness zone, including a 12.5-metre lap pool, spa, sauna and treatment spaces, alongside a gym and recovery-focused amenities.

This level of amenity is more commonly associated with inner-city developments, rather than established middle-ring suburbs like Camberwell.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4896 project_image_fid=368588]

Additional shared spaces include a private library lounge, dining and entertaining areas, and an indoor golf simulator. A self-contained guest suite has also been incorporated, allowing residents to accommodate visiting family or friends without impacting their primary living space.

The inclusion of these facilities reflects a broader shift in buyer expectations.

As more downsizers look to transition from larger family homes into apartments, there is increasing demand for developments that offer not just a residence, but a lifestyle. That includes access to wellness, social and entertaining spaces within the building itself, reducing the reliance on external amenity while still maintaining proximity to established precincts.

Camberwell House is positioned to benefit from both.

Its location places it within immediate walking distance of Camberwell Junction’s retail and dining offering, as well as public transport connections, including tram and train services. That combination of internal amenity and external convenience is central to its appeal.

<section data-scroll-anchor="false" data-testid="conversation-turn-150" data-turn="assistant" data-turn-id="request-WEB:55d7c6ac-8e6d-4881-ad49-0ed9bf66d1cc-74" dir="auto">
Jellis Craig Projects Director Stephen Bowtell is handling sales for the project and says Camberwell House offers a rare entry point into one of Melbourne’s most tightly held markets.

“Buyers are recognising that Camberwell House offers something they simply haven’t seen before in Boroondara,”&nbsp;Bowtell&nbsp;says.

“It combines a level of resident amenity and service typically associated with Melbourne’s premium inner-city developments, while being positioned right in the heart of Camberwell Junction.

“The response to the concierge offering has been particularly strong. Buyers appreciate not only the convenience, but also the sense of security and peace of mind that comes from having a dedicated presence in the building every day.

“When you combine that with the wellness facilities, the exceptional arrival experience, and panoramic views across both the CBD skyline and the Dandenong Ranges, it creates a lifestyle proposition that is genuinely unique within the local market.”
</section>

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=4896]

Joel Robinson

Above Zero launches Camberwell House in undersupplied Camberwell Junction precinct

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/consolidated-properties">Consolidated Properties Group</a> (CPG) is approaching the launch of its latest Brisbane riverfront development, Castile, on the dress circle Skyring Terrace in Newstead.

VIP buyers are now being engaged, with a full public sales launch coming later this year.

Positioned as the final opportunity to secure a new absolute riverfront residence on the East bank of Newstead, Teneriffe or New Farm, Castile at 47 Skyring Terrace has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a> as a timeless addition to the Brisbane skyline.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150489 project_image_fid=371113]

The name Castile draws on themes of permanence, sophistication and legacy, reflecting a broader vision centred on enduring architecture and timelessness in the rarest of riverfront positions.&nbsp;

CPG Chairman and CEO Don O’Rorke said the project had been envisioned as a future Brisbane icon.&nbsp;

“With 47 metres of direct river frontage and never to be built out views, 47 Skyring Terrace is the definitive address on the Brisbane River,” O’Rorke said.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150489 project_image_fid=371114]

“Rather than following trend-based apartment design, Castile draws inspiration from Brisbane’s great heritage buildings, reinterpreting classical architecture into a contemporary riverfront landmark designed to stand proudly for the next 100 years,” he said.&nbsp;

The approved development will comprise 227 apartments across a 25-storey tower alongside a boutique six-storey riverfront building of just 12 residences.&nbsp;

Construction is scheduled to commence in September 2026.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150489]

CPG unveils Castile Newstead ahead of upcoming sales launch

Australia’s online shopping habits have shifted dramatically over the last decade. As eCommerce volumes surged, so too did the frustrations that came with traditional parcel delivery: missed deliveries, long Post Office queues, parcel theft and the challenge of being home during business hours.

Australia Post’s Parcel Lockers emerged as one of the more practical responses to that changing consumer behaviour.

What started as a relatively niche delivery option has evolved into a nationwide network of more than 1,400 self-service Parcel Lockers positioned at train stations, shopping centres, supermarkets and Post Offices across the country. The system allows Australians to send, collect and return parcels 24 hours a day, fundamentally changing how many people interact with deliveries.

The appeal is relatively straightforward: flexibility.

Instead of waiting at home for a delivery driver or rushing to a Post Office before closing time, users can direct eligible parcels to a Parcel Locker location of their choice. Once the parcel arrives, Australia Post sends a notification with a collection code or QR access through the AusPost app, allowing customers to retrieve their package at any time within the collection window.

For apartment residents in particular, the system has become increasingly valuable.

Higher-density living has created logistical challenges around deliveries, especially in buildings without concierge services or secure parcel rooms. Missed deliveries are common, while parcel theft has become an increasing concern as online shopping volumes continue to rise.

Australia Post itself has repeatedly highlighted the growing issue of “porch pirates” during peak shopping periods, encouraging customers to use Parcel Lockers as a safer alternative to unattended home deliveries.

That security aspect is one of the key reasons the Australia Post Parcel Locker network has grown so rapidly.

Parcel Lockers are positioned as secure, monitored collection points that reduce the risk of theft while also improving delivery efficiency for Australia Post. Instead of multiple redelivery attempts, parcels can be consolidated into a single secure destination.

The Parcel Lockers themselves are free to use through a MyPost account and support a range of parcel sizes up to 16 kilograms and dimensions of approximately 35 x 44 x 61 centimetres.

Beyond receiving parcels, the system has increasingly become integrated into the broader eCommerce ecosystem.

Customers can now use Parcel Lockers to return online purchases, while retailers have embraced the model as a way to improve delivery success rates and reduce friction in the shopping process. Australia Post has actively expanded partnerships with major retailers and promoted Parcel Lockers as part of a broader out-of-home strategy.

The timing of that expansion aligns with broader changes in Australian shopping behaviour.

The acceleration of online retail during and after the pandemic placed enormous pressure on delivery infrastructure. Parcel volumes reached record highs, particularly during Black Friday and Christmas periods, with Australia Post delivering more than 100 million parcels during peak festive seasons.

That growth forced logistics providers to rethink the “last mile” of delivery, widely regarded as the most expensive and operationally difficult stage of the process.

Parcel Locker systems have increasingly been viewed as part of the long-term solution.

The concept itself is not unique to Australia. Parcel Locker networks have become common globally, particularly across Europe and Asia, where dense urban environments and apartment living create similar logistical challenges. But Australia’s geography and suburban sprawl made adoption slower initially.

Now, however, the convenience factor is driving mainstream usage.

For commuters, Parcel Lockers near train stations allow parcels to be collected on the way home from work. For apartment dwellers, they remove the uncertainty around access and missed deliveries.

The rise of the AusPost app has also streamlined the experience, centralising notifications, tracking and Parcel Locker access into a single platform. Australia Post has increasingly pushed customers toward app-based delivery management, partly as a way to combat phishing scams and fake delivery notifications, which have become more sophisticated in recent years.

The Parcel Locker model is also beginning to influence property development itself.

Parcel management has become a growing consideration in apartment building design, particularly as online shopping becomes embedded in everyday life. Many new residential developments are now incorporating dedicated parcel rooms or Parcel Locker systems into foyers and communal spaces.

For developers, parcel management is increasingly viewed as part of the broader resident amenity offering, alongside gyms, wellness spaces and communal work areas.

That reflects a wider evolution in how residential buildings are designed.

Apartment buyers are placing greater emphasis on convenience, security and operational functionality, particularly in higher-density urban environments. Parcel delivery, once considered a minor operational detail, has become an increasingly important part of that equation.

Australia Post’s Parcel Locker network sits at the centre of that behavioural shift.

What began as a simple alternative delivery option has evolved into a key piece of infrastructure supporting Australia’s growing eCommerce economy and changing urban lifestyles.

And as online shopping continues to expand, the role of Parcel Lockers is likely to become even more embedded in how Australians live, shop and receive goods.

How Australia Post Parcel Lockers changed parcel delivery convenience in Australia

Perth’s new apartment market recorded its strongest quarter of sales since Q4 2021, with 412 apartments sold in Q1 2026 and a record quarterly sold value of $537 million, according to Urbis’ latest Apartment Essentials results.

Urbis said the March quarter result reflects strong, highly product‑specific demand across both ends of the market, from more attainable projects delivering at scale, through to premium stock being absorbed by equity‑rich downsizers.&nbsp;

David Cresp, Partner at Urbis, said the key story in Perth is not demand, it is the market’s ability to convert demand into delivered housing.&nbsp;

“This is the strongest sales quarter since Q4 2021, and it reinforces that demand in Perth is real and it’s local,” David Cresp said. “But the task now is delivery, turning that demand into projects that can actually be built and completed.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110291 project_image_fid=302785]

<h2>Affordable product leads, premium demand remains resilient</h2>

Sales in Q1 were led by more affordable projects, with The Boulevard (SKS Group) recording 115 sales in the quarter, the presentation noting this is only the second time a single project has surpassed 100 quarterly sales. The project was able to offer more affordable housing product right next to a train station.&nbsp;

Palmyra West (Finbar) also delivered strong results with 28 sales in Q1, following 84 sales in Q4, with an average price of under $800,000, underscoring depth of demand for well‑located, attainable new stock.&nbsp;

At the premium end, Urbis said downsizer demand is continuing, with the results highlighting Romeo (Applecross, Finbar) recording 75 sales and reaching almost 50% sold in one quarter.

Jual (Shenton Park, Celsius Property) also posted a strong quarter with 28 sales, reaching 39% sold in one quarter.

Urbis noted that Perth apartment demand is not speculative, not investor‑led, and not uniform, describing it as localised, often equity‑driven and highly product‑specific, a pattern reflected in the polarisation between strong “attainable” performers and premium downsizer product.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=148957 project_image_fid=364102]

<h2>Prices underpinned by costs, and the delivery risk is growing</h2>

Urbis said pricing pressure is cost not demand‑driven: construction costs and delivery risk are now a central constraint, with the results noting build costs remain elevated and volatile, and that energy, fuel and labour uncertainty weigh on feasibility.

David Cresp said a growing challenge for private Build‑to‑Sell developers is simply securing a builder in the current environment.

“Developers are really feeling the pressure from a building market that was operating at capacity and securing a builder is challenging,” David Cresp said, adding that even where a builder can be secured, “trying to get to the price that makes the development financially viable is incredibly challenging in the current market.”&nbsp;

Urbis’ broader WA commentary also notes that industry remains at or above capacity with lot and housing creation, and that many builders are limiting new sales to manage stretched workforces and fixed‑price contract pressures, conditions that flow directly into apartment feasibility and delivery timing.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108869 project_image_fid=317905]

<h2>Supply: improving later, but still constrained, and Perth lags eastern benchmarks</h2>

While near‑term supply remains constrained, Urbis’ forecast shows completions lifting “Supply is forecast to be back above 1,500 apartments per annum for the first time since 2019”, with 1,775 completions forecast for 2026, and volumes remaining above that level over the following years.&nbsp;

Looking further ahead, completions are forecast to reach 2,500 in 2028, with the report noting 32% of that total is social/affordable, reflecting the role of government‑supported delivery in rebuilding the pipeline.&nbsp;

However, Urbis said Perth remains behind comparable markets on pipeline scale. In a national comparison of projects under construction, the report shows under construction Perth Build‑to‑Sell (BTS) at 3,446 apartments versus the Gold Coast at 7,922. Mr Cresp said “The challenge for Perth is how to we grow the delivery pipeline”.

Urbis’ conclusion is that Perth’s market is increasingly defined by product discipline and delivery certainty, with the research identifying “delivery certainty is key” and calling out builder risk and procurement models as core success factors, alongside “timing and staging”.&nbsp;

Perth apartment sales hit strongest pace since late 2021 as builder capacity tightens

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sammut-developments">Sammut Group</a> has secured development approval for its latest Brisbane apartment project, marking the Sydney developer’s next step in expanding its Queensland pipeline following the success of its debut Gold Coast development, Coast.

The approved project at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/44-glen-road-toowong-qld-4066">44 Glen Road, </a><a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/toowong-qld-4066">Toowong</a> will deliver a 15-storey riverfront apartment building with 42 residences, significantly increasing the scale of the site’s previous approval for a smaller luxury scheme. Designed by Bureau^proberts, the development will comprise a mix of predominantly four-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments positioned to maximise Brisbane River and city views.

Sammut Director Julian Sammut said the group had been actively searching Brisbane for several years before identifying Toowong as the right fit.

“Brisbane was the right step for Sammut,” Sammut said.

“With the success of Coast we thought we should definitely look to do more in Queensland alone. We then pushed up to look at Brisbane. We've been looking for I'd say two to three years actually and it was hard to find the right location.”

<img alt="Sammut makes Brisbane apartment play" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_75/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Screenshot%202025-12-23%20at%203.27.14%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=dYAVIL7qdcGA8ojvkslSrLjczXFejSSx" />

Sammut said suburbs including New Farm and Teneriffe were considered before the group ultimately focused on Toowong due to its strong downsizer demographic and limited supply of developable riverfront land.

The site was acquired off-market after what Sammut described as a lengthy negotiation and planning process, with the developer pursuing an uplift to the original approval.

“We are DA approved now which is very exciting,” Sammut said.

“We've had our change approval come through and we've obviously doubled the height, 15 storeys plus rooftop. We've got 42 amazing apartments that are going to be coming to market soon.”

<img alt="Sammut makes Brisbane apartment play" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-23%20at%203.27.26%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=ohkRkY0dIZlqdfME2EZePsCQavRiBadE" />

Bureau^proberts said the design responds to Toowong’s evolving urban character, balancing contemporary apartment living with the area’s established residential identity.

“A place where traditional Queensland living has taken place for centuries; Toowong is seeing a shift of contemporary influence, commercial and retail hubs mixed with well-considered residential offerings – all the while maintaining its character and charm,” the architect noted in planning documents submitted to Brisbane City Council.

The architecture practice said the project’s form was shaped by its riverfront setting, flood considerations, neighbouring building scales, and view corridors.

“They said the mix of four and two-bedroom apartments capture the ‘fundamental qualities of Queenslander living,’ translated into the context of a contemporary subtropical building.”

The development sits just off Coronation Drive within walking distance of Toowong’s retail precinct and the upgraded Regatta ferry terminal, while also benefiting from proximity to the incoming green bridge connection to West End. Sammut said the accessibility and amenity offering were central to the site’s appeal.

The approval adds to growing residential activity along the Toowong riverfront, joining nearby projects including Consolidated Properties’ Monarch Residences and Spyre Group’s ARC Residences.

Cassidy Knowlton

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