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They call it “reality” television and shows such as House Rules, Better Homes and Gardens, and, of course, The Block, have certainly fuelled our enthusiasm for DIY. 
The recent screening of The Block, where four apartments in an inner Melbourne suburb were auctioned off, drew strong interest nationally. The popularity of DIY has increased significantly as a result of our interest in such home improvement shows – and hardware and building supplies stores are reaping the benefits. 
Business information analysts Ibisworld released a report earlier this year showing their revenue was up thanks to the increase in renovation projects and DIY.
The report said almost 6000 businesses in the sector had shown annual growth of about 3.5% over the past five years with the past two financial years in particular helped by “greater expenditure on DIY renovations and home improvement projects”.
But while these homeowners think they are adding value to their homes – and some are – there are many pitfalls for the amateur. Sub-standard DIY work can not only make a poor first impression, but have buyers worrying about what else has been badly done.
Among the problems agents say can make a notably bad impression: poorly fitted kitchen or bathroom cabinets, poorly fitted carpets, visible wiring and a below-average paint or tiling job.
But if you are planning to DIY, take care, as there’s a range of implications. Not all are financial; there’s a need to make sure that the work is safe to undertake yourself.
And even DIY done well will not add value if the home is overcapitalised – that is, more spent on it than could be recouped in a sale – or if the amount spent is more than people are willing to spend on homes in the area.
Work must be done well, which means being sure you have the skills and experience for the tasks and, if not, hiring professionals to do it.  It is not cost-effective and is potentially dangerous to attempt work such as wiring and major plumbing jobs.  While this may seem expensive, it can boost the price of your home.
Before starting, it’s worth researching the price of renovated homes in your area that are of a similar size, to check on the potential value of the renovation. Then you’ll be able to proceed, and ensure that you make a significant return on your investment. 
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Reality television renovation: Enzo Raimondo

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The Victorian property market finished 2015 on a high with a record number of auctions held in November and December.
While median house price growth is expected to moderate this year, population increases, a robust economy and relatively low interest rates will encourage buyer interest in 2016.  In 2016 the REIV expects moderate growth across the city with further price increases in a range of suburbs in Melbourne’s inner, middle and outer rings.
Some suburbs to watch in 2016 are: WEST OF THE CBD
Footscray - Close to the CBD and recorded double-digit growth in 2015. Footscray remains affordable given its location in Melbourne’s inner ring. Improving infrastructure and gentrification likely to result in solid long-term growth.  Median price: $780,000 Altona - Close to the CBD (13km) and to the bay and has seen double digit growth in 2015. Private sales market tightened in 2015 and clearance rate increased, despite listings being up 17 per cent.  Median price: $710,125 Sunshine - Still offers very affordable buying and is within 11km of the Melbourne city centre. Larger land blocks are proving attractive to both buyers and developers. Median price: $530,000 Spotswood - Another inner west Melbourne suburbs which is poised for further growth in 2016. Despite listings increasing significantly in 2015, the median days on market fell 23 days and clearance rate improved 13 per cent.  Median house price remains well below the inner Melbourne median of $1,236,000. Median price: $775,000 NORTH OF THE CBD Preston – Has seen solid growth in recent months, reflected in strong private sales activity (median number of days on market declined seven days in 2015). Located within 10km of the CBD, Preston’s median house price remains well below the inner Melbourne median of $1,236,000. Median house price: $815,000       Epping – Located on the fringe of Melbourne’s middle ring, Epping recorded solid price growth in 2015, driven by a strong private sale market. Poised for further increases in the coming 12 months.  Median price: $432,750. EAST OF THE CBD  Burwood East - A big growth area with extensive development underway at present. While the median house price is high, days on market continue to fall (down from 37 days in 2014 to 30 days in the past 12 months) showing increasing buyer interest. Median price: $1,004m Montrose – Has a relatively affordable median house price for those buying in Melbourne’s east and has shown good signs of capital growth in the past 12 months (up 10%). A significant drop in median days on market in 2015 (down 11 days to 19 days) has resulted in a strong private sales market. Median price: $600,000 Mount Waverley - Experienced one of the highest median price increases of any Melbourne suburb in 2015, up more than 20 per cent, but should still see growth this year. Attractive to foreign investors and quality local schools (Mt Waverley Secondary College) are also proving to be a key driver for buyers.  Median price: $1.38m Glen Waverley – Middle-eastern suburb which has been in the spotlight in 2015, and will continue in 2016. Given it is zoned for quality public school Glen Waverley Secondary College, buyer demand is likely to continue for the foreseeable future.   Median price: $1.319m SOUTH OF THE CBD  Seaford - Bayside and has experienced strong growth in the past six months. Like Sunshine, is also very affordable. Strong private sales activity and clearance rate.   Median price: $530,000 Chelsea - Close to the bay and with good transport to the CBD. Saw a strong private sale market and solid auction activity in 2015 as well as double-digit annual growth. Should be a solid year ahead.                
Median price: $727,000
‎Enzo Raimondo is chief executive officer of <a href="https://www.reiv.com.au/" target="_blank">The Real Estate Institute of Victoria</a>.
 
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12 Melbourne suburbs to watch in 2016: REIV's Enzo Raimondo

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The REIV is embarking on a comprehensive consultation process with members in a bid to address underquoting.
The Institute will gain valuable input from members on a suitable outcome which will drive industry-wide change and best serve the interests of consumers.
Industry input would be received via a member-wide, online survey and through forums in key regional centres in the next fortnight. 
We are committed to ensuring this issue, which is clearly impacting on members of the public, is addressed in a timely and effective manner.
Poor price quoting is a symptom of a broader, more important issue – the educational qualifications required to practice as an agent in Victoria.
We currently have a situation in this state where a Certificate III is all that is required to sell or manage real estate.
This is the same level as that required to work in hospitality – as a waiter or barista.
There are also some registered training organisations (RTO’s) which are offering a full licensed course (Certificate IV) in just five days.
These fast-tracked courses are clearly impacting on the industry, and creating poorly trained, inadequately qualified real estate agents.
The agents receiving this training are a significant threat to consumers.
The Institute would continue to press for the introduction of higher educational qualifications.
‎Enzo Raimondo is chief executive officer of <a href="https://www.reiv.com.au/" target="_blank">The Real Estate Institute of Victoria</a>.
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Price quoting issue needs to be addressed: Enzo Raimondo

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GUEST OBSERVER
The Real Estate Institute of Victoria has backed new initiatives announced by the State Government today, including significant road and rail investment across the state. 
The $10.4 billion investment in public transport and road projects will drive growth across the city and regional Victoria. 
Given the significant growth in Melbourne’s outer suburbs in the past two quarters, improved road and rail infrastructure will drive continued price growth in areas further from the city and within commuting distance of the CBD.
The REIV also welcomed a further $75.4 million for services and facilities in Melbourne’s outer suburbs and growing regional communities.
With estimated population growth of about 100,000 people each year, amenities investment in suburbs more than 20km from the city is necessary to ensure these suburbs remain attractive for home buyers. 
Significant new Budget measures include $2.9 billion for Melbourne’s Metro Tunnel, $1.46 billion for the Western Distributor, $924 million for new and upgraded schools and $982 million in improvements to the state’s health system.
The REIV also backed the State Government’s commitment to streamlining the planning process.
This includes creating an online portal for applications, improved zone controls and faster approvals in commercial and industrial zones.  
The State Government also announced changes to land tax and stamp duty for overseas buyers of Victorian property.   
Victoria is the most liveable city in the world and it’s important that these buyers contribute to ongoing infrastructure development and amenities.
Duty increases for overseas purchasers will help enhance the city’s housing stock at a time when our population is growing faster than any other capital city.
The REIV would like more Victorians to have access to home ownership and we call on the Government to consider greater assistance, especially for first home buyers.
‎Enzo Raimondo is chief executive officer of <a href="https://www.reiv.com.au/" target="_blank">The Real Estate Institute of Victoria</a>.
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Infrastructure initiatives to drive new growth areas: Enzo Raimondo

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The past 12 months mark one of the state’s strongest residential property markets we have seen in recent years. 
More homes went to auction than ever before with multiple records falling, including the highest number of auctions held in a single day, weekend and year. High transaction volumes, low interest rates and buyer and vendor confidence all contributed to strong capital growth. As the year draws to a close, it is timely to review the market in 2015 and the outlook for Victoria in 2016.
TRANSACTIONS &amp; AUCTION VOLUMES 
Transaction volumes in Victoria have been at their highest in five years with around 116,000 sales in the year to November 30. This is a 5% increase on last year when there were 110,400 transactions. 
In the year to November 30, around 40,000 auctions have been held with almost 30,000 homes selling under the hammer. Just over 37,000 of those auctions were held in Melbourne, compared to 2,500 in regional Victoria where private sales are more popular. 
The key to the 2015 market has been auction levels, which have hit an all-time high in recent months. In the last weekend in November, multiple national auction records fell including most auctions in a single day with 1,648 auctions held  - 22 more than the previous record which was set in October last year. November 2015 was also a record month for auctions with 5,669 auctions held – 259 more auctions than the previous record month (November 2014).  
MEDIAN PRICE GROWTH
Significant house price growth has been recorded in metropolitan Melbourne throughout 2015 with the median surpassing the $700,000 barrier for the first time ever in the September quarter. Growth has been widespread across the city, with price increases recorded in all three regions – inner, middle and outer. 
Growth has been consistent during the year. In the first quarter of 2015, the median house price topped $671,000, up from $664,500 in December 2014. Suburbs in the city’s south east experienced the highest growth in the first three months of the year with Mount Waverley, Bentleigh and Beaumaris all up more than 16% on 2014 figures. 
Solid price growth continued in the June quarter with metropolitan Melbourne’s median house price almost reaching $700,000, at $698,000. Melbourne’s eastern suburbs recorded the highest median house price growth in the quarter with Templestowe, Glen Waverley and Balwyn North all rising by at least 17%. 
The September quarter saw the city’s median house price rise 4.5% to a record high $729,500. Bayside suburbs Brighton, Dromana and Seaford topped the highest growth suburbs in the third quarter of the year, up more than 17 per cent on June quarter figures. 
House prices have also increased in regional Victoria over the year with the median house price hitting $347,000 in the three months to September 30. This was up from $341,000 in the first quarter of 2015. 
MILLION DOLLAR SUBURBS
Buyer demand in traditional million dollar suburbs has pushed up the median house price in neighbouring areas. As a result of the ripple effect, more of these suburbs have joined the million-dollar club this year. There were 61 suburbs valued at $1 million or more in the March quarter, and this has since increased to 87 in the September quarter. Toorak remains Melbourne’s most expensive suburb with a median house price of almost $4 million. This is followed by Canterbury and Balwyn with median house prices of $2,430,500 and $2,281,000 respectively.
LOOKING AHEAD
While clearance rates moderated slightly in November, they have still been strong given the record auction levels – and continuing high auction numbers to late 2015 indicates a high level of vendor confidence.
The mix of population increases, a robust economy and relatively low interest rates is likely to also encourage buyer interest moving forward.  
Across Melbourne, the market is likely to remain steady, with solid growth in a range of areas across the city. This growth is likely to be strongest in Melbourne’s inner and middle suburbs, which have seen strong buyer interest in recent months. 
While this growth may not be as strong as what has been experienced this year – with up to five per cent increases per quarter – a city-wide population upturn and low interest rates both signal consistent buyer demand in the first quarter, and into the second quarter, of the new year. 
‎Enzo Raimondo is chief executive officer of <a href="https://www.reiv.com.au" target="_blank">The Real Estate Institute of Victoria</a>.
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Melbourne auction activity at all time high: REIV's Enzo Raimondo

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Melbourne’s booming auction market, with a record 40,000 auctions last year, attracts headlines. But behind the scenes are the quiet achievers: private sales, actually the means by which most homes across Victoria, including in Melbourne, are sold.
While the number of auctions has grown, with vendors seeing the high prices obtained at auction by others and wanting that for their own home, more than 60 per cent of all sales in Melbourne last year were private sales. This resulted in close to 50,000 Melbourne homes being sold through private sale over the 12 months.
While auctions can be favourable to the seller, with the white heat of competition encouraging ever-higher bids and buyers to be highly assertive, private sales avoid that stress. They also allow a longer marketing period than an auction campaign, which is generally a month. 
Traditionally outer suburbs and regional areas, where homes can take longer to sell than in the highly competitive inner suburbs of Melbourne, have been the main centres of private sale activity. 
And last year was no different, with almost all of the top private sale suburbs in Melbourne’s outer region.
The trend has continued in 2015 – with the outer eastern, southern and western suburbs leading the way. Among those with the most private sales this year have been Frankston with 635, Pakenham with 620, Point Cook with 571 and Croydon with 470. Also on the top 10 list were: Mornington, Mooroolbark and Mount Martha.
The active property market in Mildura resulted in 560 private sales for that year, Victoria’s fifth highest total.
What may come as a surprise to some is the number of private sales in Melbourne city itself. In the city of Melbourne there were 717 private sales – a result of the large number of apartment private sales in Docklands and the CBD. Another top performer was the very large middle north suburb of Reservoir, which racked up the highest auction total for the year, and also had the eighth highest total private sales: 409.
While private sale levels are still extremely high, there has been a steady growth in auction levels statewide. So while in January and February last year just 12 per cent of all sales in outer suburbs were by auction, that had risen to 18 per cent in the first two months of this year. Areas with the largest increase in sales by auction included Rosebud, Craigieburn, Edithvale, Springvale and South Morang.
This reflects the value offered by outer suburbs, where population growth is leading to improved infrastructure including shopping centres such as the expanded centre in Craigieburn, transport hubs such as the station at South Morang to which the Epping line was extended, and recreation facilities.
Affordability is also a driver of outer suburban sales in 2015. Melbourne’s most affordable locations at present include Werribee, Hoppers Crossing, Carrum Downs, Wyndham Vale and Hampton Park.
While clearance rates – that is the percentage of properties at auction that sell – are a measure of the health of the auction market, days on the market are the comparable measure for private sales. All the suburbs in which properties sold fastest in February were in outer Melbourne – and, more specifically, outer eastern Melbourne. Top of the list was Croydon Hills with 17.5 days on the market, followed by Croydon South with 19 days and Montrose and Ringwood, both with 21.
Others on the list of the top 10 fastest selling areas were the Basin, Chirnside Park – the biggest improver compared with January, down by 2.5 days to 23, Mooroolbark, Yallambie, Scoresby and Kilsyth.
<a href="https://reiv.com.au/news-resources/latest-news/ceo-steps-down-after-16-years" target="_blank">Enzo Raimondo is the REIV Chief Executive Officer</a>
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Melbourne auction versus private treaty numbers: REIV's Enzo Raimondo

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GUEST OBSERVER
A clearance rate of 70 percent was recorded this weekend compared to 74 percent last weekend and 77 percent this weekend last year. 
There were 335 auctions reported to the REIV, with 233 selling and 102 being passed in, 44 of those on a vendor bid. This weekend has the highest number of auctions scheduled for Labour Day weekend since 2008 (more than 400 auctions). 
Auction Summary - Week ending Sunday 13 Mar 2016
335 Auctions Held 70% Clearance Rate 1089 auctions this weekend last year 77 percent clearance rate this weekend last year The Detail 185 sold at auction 48 sold before auction 102 passed in 6 withdrawn 0 sold after auction 44 passed in on vendor bid 9 postponed
Sales Highlights
<div class="detail-block">
<div class="house-sale-detail-setion">
<div class="row">
<div class="col-xs-12 col-sm-6 col-md-6">
<div class="content-body">
<div class="row">
<div class="col-md-12 col-sm-12 col-xs-12">
<h4 class=" header-title text-center">Top House Sales</h4>
<table class="table table-striped">
<thead><tr>
<th>Location</th>
<th>Price</th>
</tr></thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>100-102 David St PRESTON</td>
<td>$3,350,000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>18 Hood St BALWYN NORTH</td>
<td>$1,990,000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>43 Provost St NORTH MELBOURNE</td>
<td>$1,950,000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2 Harriett Cr MONT ALBERT</td>
<td>$1,760,000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>175 Richardson St MIDDLE PARK</td>
<td>$1,755,000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="col-xs-12 col-sm-6 col-md-6">
<div class="content-body">
<div class="row">
<div class="col-md-12 col-sm-12 col-xs-12">
<h4 class=" header-title text-center">Top Apartment Sales</h4>
<table class="table table-striped">
<thead><tr>
<th>Location</th>
<th>Price</th>
</tr></thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>14 Dwyer St BLACKBURN</td>
<td>$1,135,000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9/52-54 Young St FITZROY</td>
<td>$950,000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>11/12-14 York St GLEN WAVERLEY</td>
<td>$898,000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1502/1 William St MELBOURNE</td>
<td>$860,000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>506/185 Rose St FITZROY</td>
<td>$850,000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="row">
<div class="col-xs-12 col-sm-6 col-md-6">
<div class="content-body">
<div class="row">
<div class="col-md-12 col-sm-12 col-xs-12">
<h4 class=" header-title text-center">Bargain House Sales</h4>
<table class="table table-striped">
<thead><tr>
<th>Location</th>
<th>Price</th>
</tr></thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>65 Walsgott St NORTH GEELONG</td>
<td>$300,000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>50 Gateshead St CRAIGIEBURN</td>
<td>$301,000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>23 Sages Rd BAXTER</td>
<td>$305,000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>16 Plowman Ct EPPING</td>
<td>$352,500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>32 Mimosa Av MILL PARK</td>
<td>$360,000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="col-xs-12 col-sm-6 col-md-6">
<div class="content-body">
<div class="row">
<div class="col-md-12 col-sm-12 col-xs-12">
<h4 class=" header-title text-center">Bargain Apartment Sales</h4>
<table class="table table-striped">
<thead><tr>
<th>Location</th>
<th>Price</th>
</tr></thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>6/2-4 Gordon St TULLAMARINE</td>
<td>$280,000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>17/275 Burnley St RICHMOND</td>
<td>$301,000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9/10 Hendry St SUNSHINE WEST</td>
<td>$310,000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>12/46 Eucalyptus Dr MAIDSTONE</td>
<td>$335,000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1A Bent St WESTMEADOWS</td>
<td>$375,000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
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Preston development site sells: REIV

Developer Tian An LFD has been given the green light from the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority to go ahead with its new Chatswood apartment development, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/hammond-greens-chatswood-5-9-gordon-avenue-chatswood-nsw-2067">Hammond Greens</a>.

The 35-storey mixed-use tower at 5-9 Gordon Avenue, on the edge of the Chatswood Bowls Club, will comprise 91 apartments, 22 of which will be affordable homes managed by Link Wentworth. They will sit above a two-level podium with retail and commercial space.

The plans were upsized from the early 25-storey scheme which proposed 64 apartments, following the Government's new planning provisions under the Housing SEPP that gave developers the opportunity to increase heights and floor place in exchange for an affordable housing component.

&nbsp;

The design by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fjc-studio">FJC Studio</a>&nbsp;builds on the concept first presented when the firm won the site’s design competition, describing Hammond Greens as “a unique form of vertical living that belongs on the North Shore - drawing on the vernacular and materiality of suburban living, and integrating native landscaping between the narrow tower forms”.

At ground level, 1,500 sqm of retail and commercial space will activate the podium, supporting a hybrid work environment and creating a stronger connection with the local community. Residents will also have access to an outdoor pool deck, yoga room, golf simulator, and landscaped gardens designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/sturt-noble-landscapes">Sturt Noble Associates</a>.

&nbsp;

Located less than 500 metres from Chatswood Transport Interchange, the project contributes to the suburb’s growing pipeline of high-density development. It joins the likes of Changfa's recently launched The Anderson and Billbergia's Chatswood Grand Residences.

Hammond Greens is the first of two towers Tian is planning in Chatswood. They have a sister project, dubbed Hammond Place, just one street away at 15-19 Nelson Street. That will have around 110 apartments.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=142900]

Joel Robinson

Tian An LFD greenlit for Hammond Greens apartments in Chatswood as project launches

The sought-after Latent Defects Insurance policy, offering off the plan apartment buyers peace of mind for 10 years post-completion, has made its way to Sydney’s harbourside. Boutique developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/toohey-miller">Toohey Miller</a> has secured this insurance for its newly launched Elizabeth Bay development, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/barncleuth-square-elizabeth-bay-4-4a-barncleuth-square-elizabeth-bay-nsw-2011">Barncleuth</a>. This marks the developer’s second project in the area, following the success of No. 1 Onslow Place.

Latent Defects Insurance, offered by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/resilience-latent-defects-insurance">Resilience Insurance</a>, provides cover for structural or waterproofing defects in new apartment buildings. It is a policy that only the developer or builder can take out, not the apartment purchaser.

Located just&nbsp;off Macleay Street, one of Sydney’s most desirable high streets, Barncleuth offers a rare collection of only 10 residences. With just two per floor, each oversized floorplan has been designed by SJB specifically for the owner-occupier.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140184 project_image_fid=356342]

The five-storey building captures views over Rushcutters Bay and Paddington, blending contemporary brickwork with the expressive silhouettes of its Art Deco neighbours.

Inside, the residences, designed by David Hicks, prioritise generous scale and enduring quality, with a mix of two- and three-bedroom layouts. Expansive terraces and cross-ventilated interiors maximise light and airflow, while sustainable features such as a green roof and locally sourced materials reflect SJB’s commitment to long-term liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140184 project_image_fid=356341]

Developer Toohey Miller, led by Nick Couloumbis, says the design aims to bring lasting quality to an area long celebrated for its apartment heritage.

"It's a stone's throw from the best restaurants in Sydney. Some people call it the Soho of Sydney," Couloumbis told Apartments.com.au when the project was approved.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140184 project_image_fid=356337]

By securing <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/resilience-latent-defects-insurance">Resilience Latent Defects Insurance</a>, Barncleuth joins a growing group of premium Sydney projects adopting the gold standard in building protection.&nbsp;

The cover, provided before construction begins, ensures any hidden structural or waterproofing defects are repaired immediately, without lengthy litigation or fault disputes.

Resilience Insurance CEO Corey Nugent said the product has been a catalyst for renewed confidence in the off the plan market.&nbsp;

“Ultimately what we’re trying to do is build better buildings consumers can trust. When buyers take possession, they have full insurance protection from day one, for 10 years,” Nugent explained.

Unlike traditional policies such as strata or construction insurance, Resilience LDI is a first-resort, strict liability policy, meaning repairs are covered immediately without needing to prove negligence. Coverage extends to foundations, load-bearing walls, and waterproofing, the elements most critical to long-term structural integrity.

Regarded construction firm Jasara has been appointed to deliver Barncleuth. They are forecasting an early 2027 completion.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=140184]

Toohey Miller brings 10-year Latent Defects Insurance to Elizabeth Bay as Barncleuth apartments launch

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/golden-sedayu">Golden Sedayu</a> has unveiled plans for the next phase of its landmark $4 billion <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/burswood-point-saintly-entrance-burswood-wa-6100">Burswood Point</a> project, just 3.5km from the Perth CBD at the Belmont Racecourse site.

The Local Development Plan Application has been lodged for a world-class mixed-use hub (Precinct B) on the previously untouched 2.5km stretch of Swan River foreshore.

Designed by Skidmore, Owings &amp; Merrill (SOM), recognised for their work on the world’s tallest skyscraper, Burj Khalifa in Dubai and the One World Trade Centre in New York, Precinct B will feature 15 buildings, offering a mix of residential and commercial spaces including a shopping centre up to 30,000 sqm in size.

Complementing this, an internationally acclaimed five-star hotel, and a high-end pedestrian-friendly retail boulevard with vibrant day-and-night retail, dining, and entertainment venues, will provide exciting new ways for Perth residents to connect with the riverfront.

This latest milestone signals continued construction and expansion momentum across Perth’s premier riverfront community, which is set to attract local, national and international visitors.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=142314 project_image_fid=263304]

The masterplan features 110,000 sqm of public open space, which is comparable to other Perth landmarks including inner-city Langley Park and South Perth foreshore. The riverside precinct will be brought to life through a visionary landscape concept by globally renowned architectural practice Grant Associates.

With an impressive international portfolio, including Gardens by the Bay and Funan Mall in Singapore and Barangaroo South in Sydney, the firm brings expertise in creating environments that harmonise with surrounding amenity.

At 38 hectares, Burswood Point is one of the largest urban development projects ever undertaken in Australia, and one of Perth’s most transformative mixed-use developments.

Golden Sedayu Managing Director Andrew Sugiaputra said the company was working closely with SOM, Grant Associates and the Government of Western Australia to ensure Burswood Point’s design responds sensitively to its surroundings, reflecting and enhancing the character, history, and natural features of the local environment.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=142314 project_image_fid=1817]

“West Australians enjoy a privileged outdoor lifestyle and the Swan River is central to their enjoyment,"&nbsp;Sugiaputra said.

"We’re proud to be creating something truly spectacular and unique for the city, a place that feels alive from sunrise to sunset, a place where people can stay, shop, dine, and celebrate life on the river."

Precinct B builds on the outstanding success of Burswood Point’s first residential stage, which has been met with exceptional market demand. Somerset Residences, a two- tower luxury apartment development, and the exclusive riverfront homes collection are under construction and selling fast. As the number of Perth houses listed for sale remain at or near record lows, Burswood Point will deliver 4,500 new homes over the next 10 years.

“Golden Sedayu is dedicated to delivering on our promises,"&nbsp;Sugiaputra added.

"Our clients can buy with confidence, knowing that the price is fixed throughout construction. In an industry that has faced challenging market conditions, we’re proud to provide our clients complete peace of mind and confidence in the value of their investment."

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=142314]

Golden Sedayu reveals next 15 buildings in Perth's $4 billion Burswood Point precinct

Rising at the base of The Remarkables,&nbsp;diversified New Zealand developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/safari-group">Safari Group</a>'s Mountain Oak Apartments presents a foothold in Frankton, one of Queenstown’s most dynamic and fast-growing locales.&nbsp;

Surrounded by soaring alpine scenery and year-round tourism drawcards, Mountain Oak Apartments is a masterplanned precinct that perfectly balances accessibility with lifestyle amenity.

<img alt="Safari Group offers low-touch investment proposition in Queenstown’s popular ski fields district" 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://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_auto/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Ext_Cam15_Sunny.jpg?VersionId=SJAROUM_1s.Tr5ciMk4EEj5oAt_Vewmv" />

Frankton has emerged as a strategic growth zone just seven kilometres from Queenstown’s CBD, popular among both residents and investors for its proximity to the airport, the region’s two premier ski fields, Coronet Peak and Cardrona Alpine Resort, and an expanding network of shops, services, and recreation options. The apartments enjoy immediate access to the popular Market Street dining hub, as well as Five Mile Shopping Centre and the seasonal Remarkables Market, where locals gather for fresh produce and artisan goods.

The location also places residents near the gateway to South Island adventures. Scenic trails, golf courses, and Lake Wakatipu’s edge are within easy reach, while the historic village of Arrowtown, renowned for its preserved gold rush-era charm and walking routes, is a short drive away. Local transport connectivity is supported by the nearby airport and arterial roads, ideal for frequent travellers and short-term guests alike.

<img alt="Safari Group’s Mountain Oak Apartments brings new investment potential to Queenstown" 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/313_Living_WEB.jpg?VersionId=3LglY20Jp_MAzQYdvwODRWvtjL.cZcqI" />

Tourism-driven demand underpins strong investment fundamentals in Queenstown, with a noted shortage of short- and long-term accommodation stock. Mountain Oak’s 365-day visitor accommodation consent directly addresses this need, offering a rare opportunity to serve Queenstown’s dual population of holidaymakers and hospitality workers.

Construction of the 141 residences began in June 2025, with completion anticipated by mid-2027. Apartments range from one-bedroom to penthouses, with pricing from NZ$639,000. Dual-key options and low-maintenance finishes support a flexible rental model with strong gross return potential.

Staff Writer

From slopes to markets: Mountain Oak connects residents to the best of Queenstown

Deicorp is doubling down in the Hills Showground Station Precinct, the rapidly growing area surrounding the Castle Hill Metro and one of the state’s largest transit-oriented urban renewal sites.

Having launched Hills Showground Village several years ago, and now about 70 per cent through its build, Deicorp has brought another mini-masterplan to market just a few streets away.

The developer has now released the first of 873 residences in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/showground-pavilions-castle-hill-3-andalusian-way-castle-hill-nsw-2154">Showground Pavilions</a>, five new buildings located just 500 metres from the Metro, which connects Castle Hill residents to Martin Place in around 37 minutes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150067 project_image_fid=351416]

The mix includes one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, as well as a limited release of garden terrace homes with studies.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/turner-studio">Turner Studio</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/group-gsa">GroupGSA</a>, the residences are configured around a network of landscaped courtyards and podium-level gardens, with additional rooftop terraces offering views across the district.&nbsp;Communal amenities include a 3,500 sqm public park, playgrounds, shaded seating areas and walking and cycling paths.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150067 project_image_fid=351416]

Interiors feature flexible layouts with oversized living areas, deep balconies, SMEG kitchen appliances and floor-to-ceiling glass to maximise light and airflow.&nbsp;

Many apartments include a study space, while select residences offer private outdoor areas. A total of 44 apartments have been designated as affordable housing for key workers, such as nurses, teachers and police officers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150067 project_image_fid=351413]

On top of its strong connectivity to the city, Deicorp has delivered significant new amenity to the area. The developer recently opened the 9,500sqm, four-level retail precinct at Hills Showground Village, which includes 26 specialty retailers and a 1,400sqm public plaza, creating a new community hub for shopping, dining, fitness, and everyday convenience. Castle Towers, one of Australia’s largest shopping centres, is also just one Metro stop away.

Between Hills Showground Village and Showground Pavilions, Deicorp is delivering more than 1,300 new homes to the rapidly growing Castle Hill precinct, representing a $2 billion investment in the suburb.

Showground Pavilions is one of several Metro-linked projects in Deicorp’s pipeline, joining developments at Tallawong Village, Zetland, Five Dock, Macquarie Park and Crows Nest.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150067]

Enzo Raimondo

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