<html><body>
The ‘Sydney Property Market’ is often referred to just like that:  a three word headline meant to encompass all suburbs, properties, demographics, sales and rentals. It’s about as realistic as saying that all Australians are called Barry, drink beer, love sport, wear bucket hats and zinc cream.
I mention this because I was talking to our leasing team last week about the impact of the sustained strength in the sales market on rental availability. It would be easy to say that it’s great out there right now but beware of the blanket generalisation.
With investors so active in the current market there is an expectation that more rental properties will become available, easing what has been reported as a ‘rental crisis’ across the city.
Yes that is the case, but it isn’t that simple. It continues to be very patchy and as always it comes down to the maths. The devil is in the detail.
Along the north shore there is a steady stream of new build developments coming onto the market which has expanded the supply of rental properties available. Demand is there but with such a selection available the rental returns have become more competitive. Landlords will secure a tenant if they pay attention to the market and price it right.
In other areas, specifically around the CBD and fringe suburbs investors are certainly active but the price premium for a CBD property is reflected in rents which in turn has an impact on the level of demand.  
Again, even at the premium end of the market landlords need to be mindful to price their property correctly.
Anyone who has studied even basic economics would know the principle of supply and demand. As one increases – the other decreases until a point of equilibrium is reached. Which is why the numbers delivered in the current property market are so extraordinary.
The Cooley Index for February reveals some amazing statistics: A total of 302 properties going to auction with an average of 5.5 registered bidders delivering a clearance rate of 81% and 76% selling above reserve. Wow!
Now look at those numbers in comparison to the same period last year when there were only 171 properties taken to auction with a 68% clearance rate and 59% of those achieving prices above reserve.
What we’re seeing is an increase in supply as vendor confidence in the sustainability of the market has grown.  And rather than dilute demand the additional listings have been met by stronger buyer interest.
The number of registered bidders at auction is another interesting gauge of market strength. While there can only be one buyer the fact so many parties are revealing a very serious intent to purchase bodes well for the months ahead. That’s because losing bidders don’t automatically drop out of the market, rather they remain on the hunt, more determined to secure the next property.
It seems everyone is coming out to play.
 
</body></html>

emorton-DecMjPQt5h

The Sydney property market: The devil is in the detail

<html><body>
QANTAS is dominating the headlines with results that are as bad as many expected, but nobody wanted to hear. Discussion has inevitably turned to how to save the airline, with the PM controversially advocating removing the restriction on foreign ownership of the airline. It is a debate that feels eerily familiar and I fear has no easy conclusion.
The connection between aviation and property isn’t immediately obvious, until you consider the heated debate that rages whenever the prospect of ‘foreign ownership’ looms large.
In real estate emotions run hot whenever reports emerge that Chinese buyers are outbidding Aussie mums and dads, driving domestic property prices out of reach of the masses. It seems that same level of emotion is bubbling around QANTAS, Australia’s national airline.
I have no problem with national pride and a desire to retain national assets, except often emotion and reality collide.
In property vendors are always seeking the best possible price. Naturally. In the global market these days there is a good possibility that might mean selling to an overseas investor. Let’s be clear -  I have never had a vendor stipulate the sale must only be to an Australian national.
In aviation travellers want to fly with an airline that is safe and inexpensive. But the reality is global competition has delivered a wide selection of airlines delivering equivalent service and safety to QANTAS. How many of us choose QANTAS because it is our national carrier if there is a more affordable alternative?
Perhaps that’s why the push is for governments to impose restrictions and regulations to restrict foreign ownership.  It removes the need for individuals to make those decisions.
Ewan Morton is managing director of the Sydney based <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.mortonandmorton.com.au/" target="_blank">Morton &amp; Morton</a>. 
                           
</body></html>

Domestic or international? The parallels between QANTAS and property

<html><body>
If you’re as obsessed with property as I am you might have noticed the steady stream of media stories announcing with incredulous fanfare another premium listing with double digit price tags.  
Looking at the pictures is probably as close as most of us can get to an episode of Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous (does anyone else remember that show?). But aside from an opportunity to have a sneak peak at what $20, $30 or $50 million might buy you, are there any similarities between that premium market and the ‘everyday’ property market?
Two things:
One. Price it right. Even at the very pointy end of the market buyers will not overpay. Whilst you might think someone able to drop $30 million on a property would probably be prepared to pay $40 million, you’d be wrong. At the high end of the market, and at the low end, and at all points in the middle buyers will pay only what they consider to be the realistic value of a property. And all buyers will always be looking to make a deal!
Two. You’re not just selling a property. In real estate today you’re selling a lifestyle so the little extras can make a big difference and your marketing photos are vital. Those with big budgets will be looking for a wine cellar, parking for several cars and perhaps accommodation for staff. Families with more modest amounts to spend will want off street parking, a playground nearby and a great laundry to store wet clothes and muddy boots. 
Both are simple, relatively obvious points, but they matter. They are as important to remember for vendors hoping for a $50 million return as those hoping for $500,000.
Records
I’ve been watching the Winter Olympics. Lots of sport I’ve never heard of, rules I have no hope of understanding but skills I find amazing. And then there are the records! There seem to be records for everything and anything these days, real estate included.
At the Winter Olympics there have been record times in speed skating, scores in the ice dancing, and even an age record with the oldest ever winner of a Gold Medal awarded this week. In the property market the records are clearance rates, interest rates, listing rates and prices.
It makes me wonder. Does the focus on the pursuit and glory of a 'record' dilute the value of achievements where a record is not set or broken?
In the school playground there has been a backlash against the practice of ‘every child gets a ribbon’, claiming it devalues the lessons of competition and creates an unrealistic expectation that everyone is a winner.
I think property records can be interesting, but they're really quite irrelevant because it is true that not everyone is a winner. 
Think about it for a moment. A record price achieved in a particular street or suburb does not automatically mean the same result can be expected for every property. It is an indication of what could be achieved but it can't be taken as automatic.
Just like Usain Bolt breaking the world record in the 100 metres doesn't make the rest of us faster!
Ewan Morton is managing director of the Sydney based <a target="_blank" href="https://www.mortonandmorton.com.au/" rel="nofollow">Morton &amp; Morton</a>.
            
</body></html>

What does the top end of the market have to do with the rest of us?

<html><body>
Already the ‘boom 2014’ forecasts have been replaced by some predictions of doom. The fear is investors are leaving the market. Well that's certainly not how I read it as we continue to see buyers making enquiries for potential investment properties. Feeding into that is the fact that we also continue to see pretty good demand for rental properties. However, I think it’s worth noting how easily the whisper of a bump in the market can start everyone talking and asking questions. It’s a reflection of the Australian obsession with property but talk alone doesn't make it true. Be careful not to jump at shadows. Our team spends a huge amount of the day talking and when reports surface of negative trends like investors retreating phones run hot. In recent days I've repeatedly said the same thing. Look at what's actually happening now. It's OK out there and I think the fundamentals are there for a good year ahead.
We’ve already had a busy January but it really isn’t until February that people are forced to return to the reality of everyday school and work routine. So the next couple of weeks will be very interesting.
The question is will there be a jump in activity as those people who have successfully escaped over the holidays return and refocus on buying and selling?
I think it’s highly likely.
For example as well as those who took a break from the property hunt over the holidays, I anticipate even more than in past years there will be new players who enter the market having used the break to prioritise and make plans for 2014. The overall economic outlook is simply more secure than the same time last year.
That’s why our team continue to predominantly recommend vendors take their property to auction. The demand is there.
And at the moment we are also increasingly recommending vendors let the auction campaign run through to completion rather than potentially consider even a healthy pre-auction offer.
Again the demand appears to be there so let’s see what happens.
Ewan Morton is managing director of the Sydney based <a target="_blank" href="https://www.mortonandmorton.com.au/" rel="nofollow">Morton &amp; Morton</a>.
 
 
</body></html>

The year has started and the demand appears to be there

<html><body>
I think now is the time to issue a bit of a warning. This week we have hit the point where I anticipate the market will start to slow down a little.
Now don’t panic. I am not saying it will drop, nor will it stop, but the frantic pace of recent weeks will fall away.
With less than a month until Christmas it is inevitable that for some potential buyers the focus will shift from house shopping to Christmas shopping. Those people will have decided it is just too hard to keep pushing to find the perfect property before the holidays.
But as I said, for vendors it isn’t time to panic.
The market is solid right now. Even if a percentage of buyers withdraw there will remain a healthy percentage who will continue to engage in the hope they can secure a new house for Christmas, even if they can’t move in.
We have several auction scheduled over these last weeks before Christmas and interest is good.
Prices have been strong but not ridiculous which isn’t a bad thing as it reflects a very solid market platform.  With a few less vendors in the mix prices should hold, delivering a happy outcome for pre-Christmas buyers and sellers.

<hr>
Ewan Morton is managing director of the Sydney based <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.mortonandmorton.com.au/" target="_blank">Morton &amp; Morton</a>.
 
</body></html>

Market is solid, but prepare for a Christmas slowdown

<html><body>
They're back. Investors have returned to the market and with that comes a need to make some key decisions. The biggest is probably; do you or don't you? I'm talking about property management.
I see it as the DIY dilemma of real estate. 
Think about it. You decide to retile the bathroom. You get a quote from a professional tiler. You have a heart attack. You decide it can't be that hard. You will do it yourself for half the price.
Uh oh. Fast forward three months. You've had more trips to the hardware store than you can count, a trip to hospital and the cost of the project is already in line with the quote you laughed at....and it still isn't finished.
It can be the same with property management. You get a quote from an agent and decide 'it can't be that hard. I'll save money and do it myself.'
But just as not everybody can conquer the DIY renovation, the same is true of property management.
It's much more than securing a good tenant and ensuring the rent and bills are paid. There is the slightly tedious reality of always being on call to manage any maintenance and tenant issues. Then there are the countless 'other' issues that come when dealing with people, personalities and property and it's when the inevitable, unexpected, sometimes the truly unbelievable, happens that the DIY owner will be left wishing they had left it to the experts.
 
<hr>
 Ewan Morton is managing director of the Sydney based <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.mortonandmorton.com.au/" target="_blank">Morton &amp; Morton</a>.
 
 
 
</body></html>

Property management: Should you do it yourself or leave it to the experts?

<html><body>
This week my words of wisdom are to ‘be careful’ because there is a lot going on out there right now in real estate land.
It is exciting to see investors back in the market. It’s great to see auction clearance rates at continuing record levels and our team is achieving great results across the high end apartment mark.
The momentum is definitely there and if you needed any further confirmation you can tell the Sydney market is strong when the newspapers start headlining talk about a crisis in housing affordability!
But after weeks of going gangbusters we are now starting to see a little bit of pull-back. Nothing dramatic but certainly there is not quite the same level of interest out there as we were seeing even a couple of weeks ago. I think we have hit a little speed bump.
I think some buyers are a little spooked by property hype. Add to that a percentage of buyers who have determined it will require too much effort to meet a pre-Christmas deadline so have decided to wait until the new year. That means there are less active buyers out there right now.
The market is without doubt still strong but a speed bump does slow things down a little and it is another timely reminder for sellers to remain realistic and to consider sensible offers.

<hr>
Ewan Morton is managing director of the Sydney based <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.mortonandmorton.com.au/" target="_blank">Morton &amp; Morton</a>.
 
 
</body></html>

Has the market hit a speed bump?

<html><body>
This time last month I wrote that we had reached what I called the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/landlords/we-ve-reached-the-tipping-point-of-a-balanced-rental-market-ewan-morton/2013091264962">delicate rental market tipping point</a>. I said it would be fleeting and it appears I was right. That moment when rents and mortgage outlay are in line has passed. Figures released over recent weeks highlight house prices in Sydney jumped 2.5% in September with a 10% growth overall so far in 2013. Compare that to figures released by APM yesterday showing average Sydney house price rents haven't moved over the last 12 months and predictions are they will remain stable for much of the year ahead. That's great news if you're renting.  For those in the market to buy it is an interesting revelation. It's certainly another reason not to get caught up in talk of the market going gangbusters, and while it might sound gloomy I think investors should factor in a uniform rental return when doing their numbers on the value of a potential rental property. Better to be happily surprised rather than financially squeezed.   However it is also good to remember that those numbers are the average and there are pockets where rental demand is strong. We manage a large number of properties in and around Pyrmont where demand continues to outstrip supply so rental return is very healthy. If you are a potential investor don't be discouraged but do be discerning.
 
<hr>
 Ewan Morton is managing director of the Sydney based <a target="_blank" href="https://www.mortonandmorton.com.au/" rel="nofollow">Morton &amp; Morton</a>.
</body></html>

Moment when rents and mortgage outlay are in line has passed: Ewan Morton 

<html><body>
I’ve got a sneaky suspicion that what many people have worried might be a ‘bubble’ is actually just the pop of pent up demand.
Think about it. It’s an undeniable truth that in Australia, and particularly Sydney, we’re obsessed with the property market. In recent years that obsession hasn’t waned but, like a child desperate to ride a roller coaster, we have been too scared to jump on.
Now we’re a bit older and wiser. The potential ups and downs are not quite so scary and we’re ready to go.
But why such a significant spike in demand over recent months? Some might argue that it is in response to interest rates, others to the federal election and change of government fuelling traditional spring demand.
While I think all those factors have played a role the other key point that is often overlooked is the power of the positive trend. It could be a little unkind but you could see it as the ‘sheep factor’. I’m sure you know what I mean. Buyers and sellers don’t necessarily want to go first and test the market but once somebody has taken that plunge with a positive result nobody wants to miss out.
A couple of months ago I was calling for potential vendors to have faith and list their property because demand was there and supply was very low. It was worth it and continues to be worthwhile as demand has increased over and above supply.
 
<hr>
 Ewan Morton is managing director of the Sydney based <a target="_blank" href="https://www.mortonandmorton.com.au/" rel="nofollow">Morton &amp; Morton</a>.
 
 
</body></html>

Follow the leader, pent up demand behind the rise of Sydney market: Ewan Morton

<html><body>
The property market is on the rise and so is the inner city building boom. As off-the-plan apartment sales attract investor attention what does that mean for existing property price potential?
It can mean everything and nothing.
By ‘everything’ I mean that the increase in brand new apartments coming onto the market could obviously potentially decrease the value of existing property in the area. It isn’t a great story to be telling as a real estate agent but it’s undeniable that many people will say "why buy an old one if there is a brand new one available?"
That’s the obvious and worst case scenario. It’s the concern I’ve encountered regularly when talking to investors whose property we manage in and around Pyrmont in particular. Should they get out now?
My response is that new apartments could also mean ‘nothing’ to the value of existing property.
It’s important to remember the apartment building boom is a reaction to carefully calculated and evaluated prospective growth in demand. That means demand for new apartments will not automatically cancel out demand for those already built.  Also, for existing properties in Pyrmont and the CBD significant value is invested in their prime location which will not decline.
It means there will be more choice but the anticipation is there will be more people looking.
My advice to landlords is to ensure their property is well maintained so it remains competitive in both in the rental and sales market.  It can be more cost-effective to undertake smaller, regular upgrades to keep fixtures and fittings top class and top quality.
I suppose what I am saying here is the shiny new play thing might capture a lot of attention but don’t underestimate the inherent value of elegance and sophistication; virtues that increase with age.
 
<hr>
 Ewan Morton is managing director of the Sydney based <a target="_blank" href="https://www.mortonandmorton.com.au/" rel="nofollow">Morton &amp; Morton</a>.
 
 
</body></html>

Inner city building boom will not automatically cancel out demand for existing properties: Ewan Morton

Private equity real estate firm Conquest has entered into a $220 million partnership with Woolworths’ development arm, Fabcot, to deliver its long-awaited Waterloo project on Bourke Street.

The Bourke Street development was first flagged by Fabcot back in 2021 as part of its push into Sydney’s residential market. However, progress has since stalled, with no activity on site amid a number of design revisions in consultation with the City of Sydney.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/conquest">Conquest</a>, which is actively planning more than $6 billion worth of new developments, predominantly mixed-use precincts, is now set to move the project forward.

The current plans include between 110 and 120 apartments across two buildings designed by Bates Smart at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/923-935-bourke-street-waterloo-nsw-2017">923 Bourke Street</a>. The scheme will incorporate a portion of apartments reserved for key workers, alongside premium commercial space at ground level, including a full-line Woolworths supermarket.

Construction is expected to commence in the second half of 2026.

Michael&nbsp;Akaawi, CEO of Conquest, said the partnership reflects the firm’s commitment to "convenience-led" urban renewal."

"We are preparing to commence construction in the second half of this year," Akaawi says.

"Along with Woolworths, we look forward to delivering the first major supermarket to the growing Waterloo community, integrated with premium new apartments and specialty retail shops. Our focus is on creating a seamless lifestyle hub where essential services are at the doorstep, saving residents time and enhancing their quality of life."&nbsp;

<img alt="Conquest" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d8beee83-ef9b-446b-a3b3-1e2fe596512b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-01%20at%2011.08.46%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=raYhGepiLUJfx4InLPRRJduA3ftDJ_kS" />

The news comes just a week after Conquest went to the NSW Government to upsize its plans for Castlecrag's Quadrangle Shopping Centre.

Conquest purchased the site for just shy of $70 million last year, with existing plans in place for a mixed-use residential and retail precinct comprising 38 luxury apartments.

Those plans have now been significantly expanded, with the developer lodging a State Significant Development Application with the NSW Government’s Housing Delivery Authority for 150 apartments across two 11-storey buildings. The apartments will sit above a four-storey podium, incorporating specialty retail tenancies and five levels of basement car parking, on the 5,166 sqm site at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/100-edinburgh-road-castlecrag-nsw-2068">100 Edinburgh Road</a>.

Conquest has been increasingly active in the development space in recent years. The group acquired the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/eastlakes-nsw-2018">Eastlakes</a>&nbsp;Shopping Centre redevelopment, where it plans to deliver more than 1,000 apartments above a new retail precinct, and has also lodged a $900 million State Significant Development Application for a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/conquest-unveils-900m-stanmore-village-vision-for-landmark-inner-west-site">mixed-use precinct in Stanmore</a>.

Joel Robinson

Conquest partners with Woolworths to deliver mixed-use Waterloo project

A shift away from Sydney’s industrial past has left parts of the inner south defined by contrast, brick warehouses repurposed into dining precincts, former factory streets softened by landscaping and pedestrian activity.

Rosebery is one of those suburbs. Over the past decade, it has undergone significant gentrification, anchored by The Cannery, which has helped reposition the area as one of the inner city’s most sought-after lifestyle pockets.

What hasn’t kept pace with that transformation is new residential supply, which has remained relatively limited. Builder-developer Deicorp identified that gap early, securing a site in 2019 and delivering what is now one of the suburb’s most architecturally distinctive developments.

To realise the vision, Deicorp engaged Candalepas Associates to design The Rothschild, a project that is immediately recognisable from the street.

Completed in 2025, The Rothschild comprises two buildings across Rothschild and Mentmore Avenues, delivering 176 apartments. The development replaces a former industrial site, retaining a material and structural dialogue with its past while introducing a more resolved residential framework. The scale is deliberate but not monolithic, broken into forms that engage both street frontages, with retail at ground level and two levels of basement parking below.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106843 project_image_fid=221665]

From the street, the architectural intent is clear. Off-form concrete columns run through the façade, establishing a repeated structural rhythm that gives the building its visual weight. These are paired with deep-set arches and sections of exposed brickwork, creating a layered elevation that reads less like a typical apartment block and more like a reinterpretation of industrial architecture.

The material palette is intentionally restrained, with concrete left exposed and brick used to define mass rather than decoration. The result is a building that stands out through proportion and repetition, rather than height or glazing.

This approach continues internally. A central landscaped courtyard sits between the two buildings, anchored by an olive grove that acts as both a visual and spatial focal point. Rather than functioning as residual space, the courtyard is designed as a shared ground plane, where circulation paths, seating areas and planting come together to create a usable communal environment. Its positioning allows natural light to penetrate deep into the site while maintaining separation between residences.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106843 project_image_fid=221666]

Within the apartments, the planning follows a clear and functional logic. Entry points lead directly into open-plan living areas, with kitchens positioned as central elements alongside dining and lounge spaces. These zones extend to balconies or external openings, maintaining a visual connection to either the courtyard or the street.

Kitchens prioritise practicality, with generous bench space, ample storage and European appliances configured for everyday use. Bedrooms are typically set back from the main living areas, creating quieter zones within each residence, with separation achieved through layout rather than material change. Bathrooms are compact but efficient, incorporating mirrored cabinetry and integrated storage to maximise space. Across all residences, the emphasis is on clarity of movement and functional planning.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106843 project_image_fid=221669]

At ground level, retail and hospitality uses extend the building’s presence beyond its residential function. A café or restaurant space, alongside communal amenities such as a music room and rooftop areas, positions the development as part of a broader urban network rather than a standalone project. These shared spaces reinforce a lifestyle where the building operates as an extension of the surrounding neighbourhood.

Rosebery’s proximity to Green Square, The Cannery and nearby parklands supports this model of living, where much of daily life is within walking distance. The Rothschild sits comfortably within that network, contributing to the streetscape through its distinctive architecture, while internally organising space around light, structure and communal use.

The Rothschild is now complete and ready to move in, with limited residences remaining.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=106843]

The Rothschild reinterprets Rosebery’s industrial DNA into residential form

KTQ has unveiled&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/casilia-16-marine-parade-coolangatta-qld-4225">Casilia</a>, the final residential release within the Kirra Point precinct which really kicked off the boom in the area back in 2019.

The final stage comprises&nbsp;87 residences and marks the culmination of a long-term, family-led vision for Kirra Point, as the precinct moves toward completion in tandem with the development.

Around $100 million in sales have been achieved already, close to 35 per cent of the residences secured ahead of launch. There have been a significant number of buyers returning from the first stage of the development, Miles Residences, securing another property within Kirra Point.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152295 project_image_fid=368410]

Selling agent Tim Keenan from Keenan Byrne said the response reflects both the scarcity of the offering and Kirra’s growing reputation as a premium coastal market.

“This is effectively Kirra’s final act, the last release within what has become one of the Southern Gold Coast’s most tightly held beachfront precincts,” Keenan said.

“We’ve seen exceptionally strong pre-sale interest, from VIP waitlists through to off-market enquiry, which speaks to both the quality of the product and the confidence buyers have in the precinct. What’s particularly compelling is the number of buyers returning from Miles, either upgrading or investing again, which is a strong signal of how the precinct has been received."

Keenan adds that at the same time, north-facing beachfront remains exceptionally rare in Australia, limited to places like Noosa, Byron and Kirra, which is underpinning long-term value.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152295 project_image_fid=368415]

Positioned along one of Australia’s few true north-facing beaches, Casilia offers a mix of two and three-bedroom residences with pricing ranging from $1.87 million to $7.15 million and two exclusive penthouses. Residences are oriented to capture varying outlooks, from uninterrupted Pacific Ocean views across Kirra Beach to hinterland vistas, with upper levels and shared amenity taking in sweeping perspectives along the Gold Coast coastline.

At rooftop level, a north-facing pool deck captures expansive, uninterrupted views over Kirra Beach and north towards Surface Paradise. The space incorporates a heated resort-style pool, mineral spa, sun lounges and a covered BBQ cantina.

Buyer profiles are broad, typically aged between 40 and 70, with a strong skew toward second-home ownership, drawn by a combination of lifestyle, relative value, proximity to Gold Coast Airport and lower congestion compared to more established markets such as Byron Bay and Noosa.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152295 project_image_fid=368414]

The project is being delivered by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/ktq-group">KTQ Group</a>, a family-owned Australian property group with a diverse portfolio spanning residential, hospitality and commercial developments. The group has delivered a number of notable projects across sectors, including the award-winning Elements of Byron resort, demonstrating its depth of experience across both hospitality and residential development.

Known for its long-term approach to place-making, KTQ Group retains a vested interest in its projects, often holding assets within its portfolio, which has also helped build trust among buyers and reinforced confidence in both the vision and delivery certainty of the precinct.

“Casilia represents the final opportunity to secure a residence within Kirra Point and brings to market the last release within our long-term vision for the precinct," KTQ Group's Jeremy Holmes said.

"Kirra Point has been more than a decade in the making, and that timeframe reflects the care behind each decision, it takes listening, balance and vision to arrive at something that feels right for the location.

“Our approach has always been to deliver Kirra Point as a destination in its own right, a connected coastal neighbourhood integrating residential, hospitality and wellness, rather than a standalone project. It’s a vision that respects place, pace and permanence, and contributes to a sense of community that feels authentic to Kirra.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152295 project_image_fid=368411]

Once complete, the Kirra Point masterplan will incorporate a mix of dining establishments, bars and cafés, alongside the Kirra Point Health Club and a future 91-room independent resort hotel, creating a walkable, integrated lifestyle precinct.

Architecutue and interiors at Casilia have been designed by the experienced design houses of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/little-boat-projects">Little Boat Projects</a> and O’Neil Architecture &amp; Interior Design, The design moves beyond the conventional coastal apartments, instead taking cues &nbsp;from the surrounding landscape - layering natural materials, soft curves and warm textures to create spaces that respond to light, airflow and the rhythms of coastal living.

Residences are designed with an array of floorplates, generous proportions and intuitive flow, while at ground level Casilia connects into the broader precinct, where future laneways, retail and hospitality offerings will contribute to a neighbourhood defined as much by how people live day-to-day as its beachfront position.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152295]

The final residential release within the Kirra Point masterplan is set to launch, as strong pre-sales signal sustained demand for the Southern Gold Coast

A decade in the making: KTQ launches Casilia at Kirra Point

South East Queensland developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gardner-vaughan-group">Gardner Vaughan Group</a>’s entry into the Gold Coast apartment market has progressed from pipeline to market, with its Chevron Island project Bronze on Chevron now formally available to purchase ahead of a planned 2029 completion.

The 119-apartment development on Mawarra Street marks the Brisbane-headquartered builder-developer’s first residential play in the Gold Coast, following its expansion south from Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/bronze-on-chevron-8-mawarra-street-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Bronze on Chevron</a> comprises a mix of two-, three- and four-bedroom residences, with pricing starting from just over $1.5 million. The project is being delivered under Gardner Vaughan’s fully integrated model, with the group acting as both developer and builder, a structure it has consistently applied across its South East Queensland portfolio.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107520 project_image_fid=367182]

Architecture has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cottee-parker-architects">Cottee Parker</a>, with landscape architecture by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/jeremy-ferrier-landscape-design">Jeremy Ferrier</a>. The building presents as a single-tower scheme, with a focus on maximising outlook across both the Surfers Paradise skyline and the Nerang River.

Apartments have been planned with open-plan living zones extending to generous balconies, a response to the site’s dual-aspect positioning between river and ocean. Interiors follow a restrained coastal palette, with two colour schemes offered, and an emphasis on natural light and cross-ventilation.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107520 project_image_fid=367181]

Resident amenity is concentrated across more than 1,250 sqm and includes a resort-style pool, gym, yoga lawn and rooftop entertaining areas. A function space with catering facilities forms part of the upper-level offering, alongside north- and south-facing outdoor areas.

Ground level will incorporate two retail tenancies, intended to extend the existing village character of the surrounding streets.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107520 project_image_fid=367200]

The project sits within walking distance of Thomas Drive’s established dining strip, while maintaining proximity to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Surfers Paradise</a> beach and broader Gold Coast amenity. The location, positioned on Chevron Island between the river and coastline, has increasingly attracted mid- to high-density development in recent years as the precinct evolves beyond its low-rise origins.

Gardner Vaughan’s move into the Gold Coast was first signalled in 2025, with the group identifying the region as a natural extension of its operations. Chief Executive Officer Simon Betteridge described the expansion as both “strategic and natural”, citing demand for well-designed apartments in lifestyle-driven markets.

Construction is expected to complete in early 2029.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=107520]

Gardner Vaughan brings Bronze on Chevron to market as Gold Coast debut

One of the penthouses at Lily Lane, the latest stage of Carrington Place by Ellipse Property, has set a new local apartment price record.

The four-bedroom residence, purchased by a local downsizer, sold for $5.75 million—around 75 per cent higher than the previous record of $3.3 million.

Over 40 per cent of the first release of apartments at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/lily-lane-at-carrington-place-castle-hill-32-carrington-road-castle-hill-nsw-2154">Lily Lane</a> have already been snapped up just six weeks since it launched to the market.

&nbsp;

Located at 32 Carrington Road, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/castle-hill-nsw-2154">Castle Hill</a> and designed by award-winning architects <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/ptw">PTW</a>, Lily Lane is directly opposite the Hills Showground Metro station. It offers a total 213 units over two 12-storey towers - a mix of 67 one-bedroom, 100 two-bedroom and 46 three-bedroom apartments - with a ground-floor retail offering.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151821 project_image_fid=368352]

Blake Schulze, National Director – Residential at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/colliers">Colliers</a>, says around 44 per cent of buyers are&nbsp;owner occupiers, with 35 per cent being investors and 21 per cent first homebuyers.

“Developments of this calibre are very rare in the Hills District, and Lily Lane’s sales success demonstrates the depth of demand for over-sized apartments that genuinely compete with freestanding homes," Schulze says.

"We are seeing particular demand from downsizers who want to remain in the area but transition into spacious, high-quality apartment living."

On the penthouse sale, it says it shows buyers&nbsp;are prepared to pay a premium for scale, quality, and direct access to the Metro.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151821 project_image_fid=368351]

One-bedroom apartments are sized from 50-72 sqm with prices starting at $745,000, while two-bedrooms are priced from $990,000 with sizes from 75 to 132 square metres. Three-bedroom floorplans are sized between 97 and 182 sqm,, with prices starting at $1,395,000.&nbsp;

The three remaining penthouses, spanning up to 262 sqm, are priced from $2.9 million.

Over 75 per cent of apartments include dedicated studies, multipurpose rooms or family rooms, with select layouts offering walk-in pantries and laundries. Apartments are appointed with premium Miele appliances including ovens, washing machines, dryers, gas cooktops and dishwashers, while larger residences also incorporate integrated Miele microwaves, Fisher &amp; Paykel integrated refrigerators and five-burner Miele cooktops.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151821 project_image_fid=360285]

Lily Lane will be constructed by award-winning iCIRT-rated builder <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/decode">Decode Group</a>, with construction to commence in mid-2026 and expected to complete early 2029.

Carrington Place comprises more than 800 apartments and is being delivered across multiple stages, with completion expected in 2032. Integrated with neighbouring bushland, the project will feature over 20,000 sq, of outdoor recreational area, including a one-kilometre boardwalk to Fred Caterson Reserve.&nbsp;

The Hills Showground Metro Station is just a two-minute walk away, offering fast connectivity to Sydney’s CBD, North Sydney, Chatswood, Macquarie Park and Norwest Business Park.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=151821]

Ewan Morton

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News