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Checking testimonials and reviews, particularly online, are one way we all do a little bit of our due diligence when looking for any type of holiday accommodation or even restaurant to go to.
Property investors also largely use them for experts and professionals to help them with their buying, renovating, building and even accounting.
In fact, they're such a powerful way to be convinced into using a particular company or individual that it's rare to see a website without them.
But, just as it's easy to write someone a testimonial - which they may, or may not, use - it's just as easy for a less-than-reputable character to be overtly selective with their testimonials or just to fabricate them completely.
WHAT IS A TESTIMONIAL
Testimonials are comments from customers and clients of a service or product that explain their service and how they found dealing with a company of person. They are heavily used as marketing tools, and for promotion, in every industry - from the Sham Wow to the back of a novel. Testimonials can be incredibly useful for finding out what other people think about a service.
You might see them in newspapers, in emails, on websites or forums (particularly the business' own website), on review websites and in brochures.
MUST KNOW
Before we get into when to be alerted by a potentially fake testimonial, for companies in Australia it's worth noting that making, relying or using false or misleading testimonials is unlawful, according to Consumer Affairs Victoria (CAV).
That means, while they shouldn't be falsified, if they are then you do have a right to notify Consumer Affairs about it.
CAV notes that businesses that regularly rely on testimonials include alternative health care businesses, restaurants, weight loss service provides and, of course, estate agents.
<blockquote>
Businesses that regularly rely on testimonials include alternative health care businesses, restaurants, weight loss service provides and, of course, estate agents.
</blockquote>
If you're a real estate company using testimonials, basically make sure they're coming from real people, you haven't paid for a review, that you note down if there has been any sort of commercial relationship with that person, that you do not delete negative reviews and that you keep records of them all.
Remember, while less common, some do use fake testimonials to purposely say bad things about a competitor as well. These are also misleading, and you'll want to keep an eye out for them.
WHAT TO BE WARY OF
Duplicate reviews in different names, or appearing in different places multiple times.
Reviews that seem to overtly suggest you use the service, often providing discounts or codes. They may even be slagging off a competitor within the same review.
Review websites that are in some way associated to the company.
Email addresses with three or more numbers at the end - suggesting this is fake and may have been created by an automated program.
If it's an Australian company that deals with primarily Australian residents, then be wary if all the reviews have Americanised spelling. This should be a surefire warning sign that there's something fishy going on.
Those that sound like advertisements (there's a specific tone to be aware of). Be alerted by anything over the top, overly endorsement heavy, and non-specific. If they have industry-specific terms or phrasing that an average person is unlikely to use - also be aware.
Websites where all the reviews are positive or where large numbers of reviews sit at either end of the spectrum. The majority of real people give reviews within the two to four star bracket, rather than the one and five stars.
<blockquote>
The majority of real people give reviews within the two to four star bracket, rather than the one and five stars.
</blockquote>
Gut feeling is a powerful thing. Would this be something you could see yourself writing if you had the same good/bad experience? If not, why not?
Do they overtly use words and phrasing that a typical person would not? For instance, they may refer to a iPad Mini as an iPad or an iPad Mini, but it's unlikely they'd refer to its complete specs in a review e.g. iPad Mini 16GB with retina display and Wifi. Similarly, phrasing might be a little... off, particularly if cliched.
Not everyone is a wordsmith, and it's likely some people will use typical phraseology to review an item, but something like the following sentence reeks of falsity: "Great buying experience, couldn't be happier - now on my way to millions!". Unconvinced? So are we.
While not everyone will allow you to check their identity, usually there's at least one person with their full name (in which case, is it a "common" name that cannot be verified?).
If photos are with the testimonial - are they stock photos? Have you seen them used elsewhere? Search the photo through Google images' search function or through a reverse image search. Just because a photo has been included, it doesn't mean it's real.
Have you checked reviews across a number of sites? If you haven't it's time to get Googling a little more. Check out forums, where unhappy clients may be able to tackle false reviews more easily by providing their own experiences.
Look for links. Links to a person's blog or own website can be a powerful thing, suggesting they're a real individual. However, a 'tracking' link or a link that redirects you suggests that the review may be paid for.
If you're wanting to verify any further, then Property Observer suggests calling the company in question and asking for contact details for the person who provided the review - or for your contact detail to be passed on (such as an email).
Video testimonials can be even more convincing for some, however how do you know when the video was taken? Was the reviewer halfway through a seminar, or about to head in? Again, it's worth asking to contact the individual themselves.
Think you've seen a false review on a property product online? Email: <a href="mailto:jduke@propertyobserver.com.au" target="_blank">jduke@propertyobserver.com.au</a>
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jduke-EHk3XBmHkn

How to tell if a testimonial is fake: Spruiker alert

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It's the weekend before Easter and no doubt you're busy, however there are a number of small things you might opt to do if you want to get ahead with property investing.
Here are five, straightforward suggestions for any property investor.
<ol>
<li>
Have a look at the neighbourhood reviews of the area you're considering We recommend those at Homely.com.au where <a href="https://www.homely.com.au/mount-druitt-blacktown-sydney-greater-new-south-wales%20" target="_blank">suburbs are ranked compared to the rest of the area</a>, for instance Mount Druitt is ranked 366th in Greater Sydney with a score of 6.9 out of 10. There are also many helpful resident comments that can occasionally warn of bad streets or tell you the best streets, hidden gems and the type of resident you may bump into. People can put their 'pros', 'cons' and write who the area is suited to. Very helpful for any investor of potential home buyer. You might also want to help by adding in your own area review. 
</li>
<li>
Attend an auction It's going to be a busy weekend ahead of the easter slump, so anyone wanting to get a good idea of the property market around them can easily do so this weekend. If you're looking to bid at auction, make sure <a href="/expert-insights/buying/twelve-tips-for-bidding-at-property-auctions">you check out our bidding tips here</a>. As well as <a href="/news/nsw/11-tips-to-avoid-becoming-spring-auction-pushover-buyers">these tips for not becoming a pushover and bidding more than you should</a>. Take notice of the crowds, what is being said and the prices that properties sell for. This should put you in a good position for when you look to buy in the future. 
</li>
<li>
Attend the HIA Melbourne Home Show While we can't attest for all of the exhibitors, and we wouldn't want to promise anything, for $10 to $20 a ticket (depending on if you have a promo code) it's worth heading to<a href="https://www.hiahomeshow.com.au/%20" target="_blank"> the HIA home show</a> and seeing what's available. With a number of exhibitors, product display, Q&amp;A areas and presentations, it regularly attracts a crowd. Particularly suited to: Those with an interest in renovations Property investors looking to boost value Owner builders Home improvement fanatics ... and anyone who enjoys a healthy dose of The Block 
</li>
<li>
Revisit your property plan Most savvy property investors, or even those dreaming about getting into their next home, will have a plan into place. Whether this is a savings plan, a long-term plan or something scribbled on the back of an envelope, you should take it out and revisit your progress. Where are you at? Do you need to revise the plan? Do you need to write down a plan in the first place? If you're struggling with this step, there are a number of apps that can help you think about the important aspects. We recommend 5Min Business Plan, a one-page quick solution that's available on the iPad. While it asks many questions that are relevant to businesses, it's a worthwhile exercise that allows you to think about your project more as a business, and as delivering a product. This is particularly useful for those looking to develop. 
</li>
<li>
Head to the library It sounds a bit old school, but it's a good thing to do if you have a chance. Check out the property investing or business section for free books that you can have a look at, and the magazine section should also have some of the most popular investment magazines available for a read. You will also find that many libraries have "online learning" units that can be helpful - for instance, one online learning hub includes units such as 'How to save money', 'Basic Finance Skills', 'Bookkeeping', 'Money Making Strategies', 'Organisational Finances' and a number of 'real estate' units such as Home Decorating and Home Ownership. There are even gardening and furniture reupholstery classes. The best thing? They're all for free.</li>
</ol>
MORE WEEKEND TIPS 
<ul>
<li><a href="/news/weekend-challenge-6-easy-ways-to-get-ahead-in-two-days">Weekend challenge: Six easy ways to get ahead in two days </a></li>
<li><a href="/news/what-you-can-learn-by-walking-through-a-suburb-investor-research">What you can learn by walking through a suburb: Investor research </a></li>
<li><a href="/expert-insights/investing/five-tips-to-become-a-better-property-investor">Five tips to become a better property investor: Cameron McEvoy</a></li>
</ul>
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Five things you can do to supercharge your property skills this weekend

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The housing market, in at least Sydney, Melbourne and Darwin, has seen growth recently, and it's causing a knock-on effect, according to the ANZ Research team, with developer confidence now picking up.
However, they also said that it would be the mining states that record the most pronounced growth rate for gross state product in the coming years.
All non-mining states saw growth rates strengthen in the second half of 2013.
Cherelle Murphy, Dyslan Eades, Tony Morris and Zoe McHugh, from ANZ Research, recently provided a market analysis that pointed to five factors lifting the growth rates and outlooks in all states and territories.
THE FIVE FACTORS
<ol>
<li>Improved global economic conditions 
</li>
<li>Low interest rates 
</li>
<li>The lower Australian dollar 
</li>
<li>Better business confidence 
</li>
<li>Better consumer confidence</li>
</ol>
"The mining states, which are on the cusp of an export expansion, will continue to record the strongest growth rates over the coming years in our view. But the non-mining states are expected to improve most compared to the growth rates recorded over the past few years," they recorded.
Interestingly, they also noted that the convergence in growth rates between the states is as expected.
"The mining states are coming off very strong economic performances as the resources construction pipeline dries up, while the non-mining states are steadily firming."
MINING STATES
Queensland: Major LNG projects still under construction, recording high activity levels.
Western Australia: More advanced through resources contruction work, seeing a more rapid slowdown.
Northern Territory: The exception, seeing a boost from INPEX Ichthys LNG Project.
NON-MINING STATES
New South Wales: The best performer, with trend unemployment falling to 10 month low (5.5%) in March. Business conditions have picked up.
Victoria, Tasmania: Sluggish but recently improving outlooks. More exposed to manufacturing, which continues to shrink. Business conditions have picked up.
South Australia: Sluggish but recently improving outlooks. More exposed to manufacturing, which continues to shrink.
Australian Capital Territory: Sturdy, but "will shortly bear the brunt of the not yet wholly known Commonwealth fiscal tightening."
All states, they noted, saw a sharp pick-up in housing market activity "related in part to the expansionary setting of monetary policy," they noted.
<blockquote>
FIVE FACTORS LIFTING GROWTH RATES
IMPROVED GLOBAL ECONOMIC CONDITIONS
LOW INTEREST RATES
THE LOWER AUSTRALIAN DOLLAR
BETTER BUSINESS CONFIDENCE
BETTER CONSUMER CONFIDENCE
</blockquote>
"Prices have bounced off their lows and have risen especially sharply in Sydney, Melbourne, and Darwin. This has translated to an improvement in developer confidence, with residential building approvals rising strongly, implying dwelling investment is likely to contribute solidly to growth going forward," they said.
Among all the non-mining dominated states and territories, the non-mining business investment is not forecasted to see any notable improvement until next year.
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Mining states expected to see strongest growth rates over coming years: ANZ Research

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The Australian Bureau of Statistics' finance statistics have seen strong results for 2014's first two months, particularly in comparison to the past five years. However, it may not mean that prices will continue to surge upwards. Loan Market director, Mark De Martino, said that 13% more home loans were approved in the first two months of this year, than 2013, and that the results saw the highest total for January and February since 2009.
<blockquote>
De Martino expected March and April may be in the running to set new records.
</blockquote>
“The data released today by the ABS confirms that 2014 is off to a great start - home owners and buyers are returning to the market and they’re building momentum,” he said. He also said that he expected March and April may be in the running to set new records. “In the shortest month of the year there were only 227 fewer home loan approvals than the best month in 2013. Considering this, we should expect to see demand for finance growing and reaching new highs throughout 2014,” he said.   Meanwhile, the Housing Industry Association (HIA) were pointing to new home lending as showing encouraging signs. HIA economist, Diwa Hopkins, said that owner occupier loans for the construction of new dwellings increased in Feburary by 0.8%, with the three months to February seeing a 7.2% uptick. “This strong growth in housing finance is consistent with other leading indicators of the residential construction sector, including dwelling approvals and new home sales,” added Hopkins. She also pointed to a strong uptick in the value of lending to investors for the purpose of constructing new dwellings for rent or resale. "In the three months to February 2014, the value of this form of finance increased by 13.2%,” she said. Commbank's Craig James also pointed to the value of loans to fund the construction of homes, which soared by 22.3% to a record $2.75 billion in February, however he also noted that consumer confidence is a mixed bag - rising in Western Australia and New South Wales, but falling in all other states. "Anyone concerned about rising home prices need only look at the latest lending data for home construction. In February, loans to the tune of $2.75 billion were committed to fund home construction with the main driver being investors. In short, the supply of homes is set to rise to meet strong housing demand and as a consequence the growth of home prices will soften," said James.
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Home loan 'new construction' strength may point to future price drops

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Riverside Tower will be a $250 million precinct development on Parramatta’s riverfront, and the largest multi-function event centre outside of Sydney’s CBD, provided the development application goes through as planned. It will also likely take its place as one of the tallest towers in Parramatta.
It appears the new tower, to see residential apartments across 37 storeys, may also take the spot of 'tallest' residential tower in Parramatta - a title currently held by the at-present under-construction V by Crown. Suggestions that V by Crown would soon lose the title had been <a href="/expert-insights/buying/slab-to-be-set-on-highest-residential-tower-in-parramatta-v-by-crown-today">heard by Property Observer for some time</a>. Meriton's as-yet unbuilt <a href="https://www.meriton.com.au/properties/altitude-apartments" target="_blank">Altitude West</a>, "coming soon" at 330 Church Street, at a suggested 53 levels (far surpassing Altitude East at 30 storeys) is also in the running for the tallest title. With completion for Altitude suggested for 2016, and entire project completion for Riverside Tower for 2017, it'll be a race as to who holds the title and shapes Parramatta's skyline first.
The DA, submitted to Parramatta City Council last week, has requested approval for 413 residential apartments, entertainment facilities, cafes, restaurants and a visitor/exhibition facility ‘Discovery Centre’.
The project, set to be a public/private partnership between PCC, LIDIS and Dockside Group, will complement a number of significant buildings in the Parramatta area, which has been going from strength-to-strength.
The riverfront location will see a number of exciting residential features, including 37 of the 41 storeys containing apartments with river views, that are said to never be built out. The homes include studios to three-bedroom residences, sky-homes and penthouses, with first sales anticipated this year.
<img src="/images/2014/04/10/parramatta-april-10-two.jpg" alt="">
Project completion is expected for 2017, with the apartments boasting access to a lap pool, gym, spa, sauna facilities, enclosed sun terrace, terraced gardens, BBQ facilities and lounge spaces.
“Riverside Tower will play a significant role in supporting Council’s commitment to growth and the evolution of Parramatta as a thriving centre for business, leisure and living,” explains official material of the development.
It is located between Lennox Bridge at Church Street to the East and Bernie Banton Bridge (Marsden Street) and is expected to bring 720 direct and 1,400 indirect jobs, with the Conference Centre expected to add $20 million a year to the local economy.
Discovery Centre is registered with the Green Building Council of Australia.
The City of Parramatta appears to be very much behind the proposal, with Lord Mayor of Parramatta John Chedid explaining that the proposal involves major upgrades to more than 4,400 square metres of public domain and foreshore land.
“As Parramatta continues to expand, access to the river and surrounding foreshore will be critical to the city’s recreational and cultural future. We are pleased to be working with LIDIS and Dockside Group who share our vision of refocusing Parramatta’s CBD towards the river,” said Chedid.
“The centrepiece of the Riverside Tower is the Discovery Centre which will replace the CBD’s existing Visitor and Heritage Centre and deliver a spectacular entertainment and dining experience that befits the geographical heart of Sydney.”
The Council will own and manage the Discovery Centre.
<ul>
<li>Construction partner: Hutchinson Builders 
</li>
<li>Lead architect, landscape architect, urban designer and interior designer: Johnson Pilton Walker 
</li>
<li>Project developer: LIDIS 
</li>
<li>Venue managers: Dockside Group</li>
</ul>
It appears it will be a busy time for Parramatta, with <a href="/expert-insights/buying/v-by-crown-development-reaches-150-million-in-sales">tallest residential offering, 29-storey V by Crown, seeing a significant number of sales as it undergoes construction</a>.
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Development application submitted for one of Parramatta's tallest towers

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The proposed Queensland price guide ban is back on the radar, with a number of industry members speaking out in support of the legislation.
For those who are not aware of the potential changes, you can<a href="/news/new-queensland-legislation-to-leave-buyers-without-price-guides-reinsw"> see the passage in the legislation that has caused the outcry in this article here</a>.
Damian Hackett, CEO of Place Estate Agents, has said that banning the price guides will not make a significant change from what is currently in place, and will improve the professionalism of the real estate industry.
In fact, said Hackett, putting a price guide on an auction is contrary to its intended purpose – to let the market determine the final value of the property.
<blockquote>
DEBATE POINT: Is putting a price guide on an auction contrary to its intended purpose?
</blockquote>
“The notion of putting a price or a price range on a property going to auction is the reverse of what the process is trying to achieve,” he said.
Director of Place, and <a href="https://www.reiq.com/about-us/board-members" target="_blank">board director of the REIQ</a>, Paul Curtain, said that many currently did not put price guides on auctions – which is the intention of the current legislation.
“The current legislation was designed to move away from price guides, but over time it has been interpreted differently – it confused people,” he said.
“If you read it a particular way it allows for a price guide to be advertised, as long as you have the vendor’s permission in writing and some agents were interpreting it in this way.”
Hackett continued by noting that vendors still do have the option of providing a price guide.
“A seller should absolutely have the right to put a price on their property, but in simple terms, if they want to do this then it should be taken to the market via a tender campaign, rather than an auction.”
<blockquote>
DEBATE POINT: Vendors can still provide price guides by opting for private treaty sales
</blockquote>
Unsurprisingly, this echoes official sentiments from the Real Estate Institute of Queensland's CEO,<a href="/news/qld/letter-from-the-editor-more-information-not-less-please-queensland"> Anton Kardash, who said that other auctions go ahead without price guides</a>.
"Art, horses and motor vehicles, to name but a few, are regularly auctioned without a fixed price or a price guide because that is the very nature of auctions. The market will decide on the day of auction what it is prepared to pay for that particular asset," he said.
"It should also be highlighted that if a seller wishes to market a property with a price or using a price guide, they may do so by instructing their agent to sell via the much more popular private treaty method."
Curtain said that the changes would “tidy up” ambiguity at present, and help with the policing of real estate agents in the way they represent pricing, which in the past led to a lot of misrepresentation and complaints from disadvantaged consumers.
<blockquote>
DEBATE POINT: Currently there is ambiguity in the legislation that needs clearing up.
</blockquote>
“Agents would lead a buyer to a property on which they’d underquoted by 10 to 20% and the buyer would go the expense of getting building inspections and the like and then on auction day would realise they weren’t even in the running for the property,” he said.
“Essentially banning auction price guides is designed entirely to safeguard consumers and ensure we don’t return to those dark ages of misrepresentation. Arguments for price guides to be allowed potentially takes us back to those days, and this is something we categorically do not want.”
In fact, Curtain also pointed to other states as perpetrators, again much like the REIQ’s stance.
“It is with great pride that Queensland can say that it has largely avoided claims of misleading and deceptive conduct in relation to property price guides. Unlike in some other states where such complaints are rife, Queensland has not been subject to constant complaints of such a nature and will continue to prevent any future issues with the passing of this legislation,” said Kardash.
It appears Curtain agrees with this.
<blockquote>
DEBATE POINT: Other states are rife with underquoting, and they have price guides.
</blockquote>
“Certainly in other states underquoting is a huge problem – it has almost become the norm in states like Victoria for a price to be quoted and the property to sell above that level, sometimes significantly above, and this is only disadvantageous to the consumer,” said Curtain.
Hackett said that Place applauded the Property Occupations Bill 2013, with much of the other changes resulting in the reduction of red tape, despite the “controversy” surrounding price guides.
“Most of the members of the REIQ are supportive of the Bill as a whole, as are the majority of real estate agents, and indeed even consumers,” he said.
“The only issue that has been blown out of proportion is the section clarifying the rules surrounding auction price guides, but overall people are excited about the changes as a whole.”
Meanwhile, managing director of RE/MAX Australia, Michael Davoren, has urged the Queensland government to “stick with their plan and legislate for there to be no price indicators… despite a small number of people publicly lobbying for the opposite.”
One person publicly speaking for the other side of the argument is McGrath Estate Agents’ John McGrath, who has <a href="/news/qld/dark-ages-descending-on-queensland-as-auction-price-guide-ban-defies-common-sense-john-mcgrath">taken out full page advertisements in Queensland newspapers to argue against the proposal</a>.
"It does the people of Queensland a great disservice, in my opinion, to deny them such a fundamental right when it comes to the most important financial asset that any of us will ever own,” said McGrath.
"The banning of price guides will be a barrier to business for this great state. We should be open for business. Making it easy for others to research our property and invest in Queensland," he said.
However, despite the suggestion of a "small number" of people lobbying against the change, the REA and News Limited are also in opposition, and the <a href="/news/nsw/real-estate-institutes-go-head-to-head-over-queensland-auction-price-guide-debate">Real Estate Institute of New South Wales also spoke out against the ban</a>, suggesting that there is a heavy tide of opposition being faced. Notably, an online petition prompted by News Limited has <a href="https://www.change.org/en-AU/petitions/jarrod-bleije-mp-amend-proposed-legislation-aimed-at-banning-price-guides-on-properties-going-to-auction-in-qld?recruiter=83952376&amp;utm_campaign=signature_receipt&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_source=share_petition" target="_blank">achieved 1,918 signatures</a>.
Davoren said that the reality in the industry is that the topic has been debated at length, and most accept the REIQ’s position on having no price guidance.
“While I accept that real estate practitioners and commentators from other jurisdictions can express an opinion on Queensland real estate, their own systems are far from perfect with cases of over quoting and underquoting regularly brought to public and legal attention,” said Davoren.
Despite this, it appears it’s uncertain how many agents actually are underpricing.
<blockquote>
DEBATE POINT: Could providing reserve prices one week before auction be an alternative solution?
</blockquote>
“A minority of agents are over quoting to the seller but then underpricing when going to the public – there is no transparency in that,” he said.
“The Bill proposes that an agent or auctioneer can provide a comparative market analysis in writing with the written consent of the seller and at the direct request of the buyer,” he said.
“We’ve invested so much already into making our real estate industry as transparent as possible; to encourage the use of price indicators is a backward step.”
He also said that, contrary to what some have been saying, the Bill will not stop buyers from using real estate portals to find properties in their price range, with any search parameter based on the property’s price range to be seen as a “search tool only” and not taken as the agent’s pricing guide or opinion.
Another solution to the underquoting issue has been suggested through the publishing of reserve prices a week out from the auction date. An <a href="/news/nsw/real-estate-institutes-go-head-to-head-over-queensland-auction-price-guide-debate">online petition for this change in New South Wales is circulating, launched by buyer’s agent Patrick Bright</a>, and has seen vocal support from SQM Research’s Louis Christopher. Bright has suggested to Property Observer that should the model be successful in New South Wales, other states may be interested to implement it.
Observer Terry Ryder, based in Queensland, has also been vocal on the issue of the Queensland price guide ban, <a href="/expert-insights/buying/dont-like-the-auction-price-guidance-ban-you-can-only-blame-yourself">telling those who dislike the ban that they can only blame themselves</a>.
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Queensland price guide ban garners support, with claims debate is “blown out of proportion”

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Across the March quarter, the national median weekly asking rent for houses increased by a subtle 0.2%, with unit rents increasing by 1.7%, however the picture is mixed across the country, explains Australian Property Monitors’ latest statistics.
<img src="/images/2014/04/10/apm-chart-april-10-one.gif" alt="">
<img src="/images/2014/04/10/apm-chart-april-10-two.gif" alt=""> 
Source: Australian Property Monitors 
SYDNEY
National housing rents for the year ending March saw Sydney retain strength as the most expensive major capital for tenants, with median weekly asking house rent over the March quarter sitting at $500, and units at $490, explains APM’s senior economist, Andrew Wilson. As discussed yesterday, Sydney’s expensive rental market will come as no surprise to anyone looking to live there.
Despite this, Sydney’s house rents have remained flat for 12 months, “indicating underlying affordability barriers constraining rental growth,” said Wilson.
Sydney unit rents, however, continue to rise driven by the affordability advantages of units over houses and the growing preferences for apartment living and inner–city locations. Based on current trends, unit rents will be on parity with house rents sooner rather than later in 2014.”
MELBOURNE
Pointing to the recent rend of rising house rents, Melbourne has seen some of the best performance of all the capital cities – up 4.1% over the year, with the March quarter seeing a 1.3% increase.
“Melbourne unit rents have staged a revival after a lengthy period of subdued growth,” he said.
“Despite March quarter increases in rents, Melbourne remains relatively affordable for tenants with only Adelaide recording lower rents of all the mainland capitals.”
BRISBANE
However, the picture differs when looking at Brisbane, where the market was weaker over the March quarter, with house rents staying flat and unit rents actually dropping by 1.3%.
“Over the year ending March 2014, no growth was recorded in unit rents, however, house rents rose by +2.6%. Significant numbers of new inner city apartments continue to place downward pressure on rental growth,” said Wilson of the yearly statistics.
Note: Wilson explained that in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, a low number of first home buyers could be responsible for creating some demand-based rental pressure, however increased supply with investor activity and new apartment building should impact rental growth in these cities.
Rental yields also have some interesting implications across Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney. In the latter two capital cities, yields remain the lowest of all capitals for units and houses, however Melbourne appears to see some increases in yield suggesting weakness in price growth for inner city apartments. Brisbane, however, provides the highest gross rental yield of all the major capitals.
ADELAIDE
Currently, Adelaide is the most affordable of all mainland capitals, with subdued rental growth over the March quarter. In fact, over this period house rents fell by 1.4% and units remained flat.
PERTH
In Perth, the quarter recorded flat rents for house and units, as the “market continues to adjust after the unsustainably strong rental growth seen in the first half of 2013,” he said.
“House rents in Perth are now down by -2.0% over the year with no growth in unit rents,” said Wilson.
DARWIN
Despite flat rents for houses and unitsover the March quarter, a 7% increase over the year ending March was recorded.
HOBART, CANBERRA
Flat or falling rents for houses and units were recorded over the March quarter.
 <img src="/images/2014/04/10/apm-chart-april-10-three.gif" alt="">
<img src="/images/2014/04/10/apm-chart-april-10-four.gif" alt="">
Source: Australian Property Monitors
Further mixed results for all capital cities are expected through 2014, as price growth moderates in most capitals, explained Wilson.
“Choppy capital city rental market performances over the March quarter reflects, to some degree, the uplift in home buying activity which was driven by sharp improvements in housing affordability over the past year,” he said.
“With prices growth likely to accelerate this year, expect increased house investor activity although yields may weaken.”
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Melbourne and Sydney show strength, as rest of the country’s rents dip

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A ban made against Edward Richard George of Mudgee, New South Wales, has been reduced to three years - from a previous lifetime ban - after the Administrative Appeals Tribunal found that the claim he was "not of good fame or character" was not justified.
In March 2014, a decision to reduce his ban was made by the AAT. The initial ban was made by ASIC and stopped George from providing financial services and engaging in credit activities. The ban of three years commenced from 31 July 2013, meaning George will be able to operate by mid-2016.
The AAT said that George did complete five applications for deposit guarantees and falsified loan approval documents to support these applications, but maintained that while this was dishonest it was "out of character".
ASIC had found that on two occasions between March and July 2011, he had submitted eight documents for four deposit guarantees and one home loan - these had been for himself and four clients. False information included loan approval letters, employment letters and payslips.
A deposit guarantee, or deposit bond, is a substitute for cash when a buyer looks to purchase a home. The false letters were issued to Deposit Power.
ASIC found he engaged in dishonest conduct after an <a href="/news/asic-bans-edward-george-from-mudgee-after-quest-home-loans-investigation">investigation looked into George’s conduct when he was a broker operating under the name Quest Home Loans</a>.
"Mr George’s dishonest conduct is incompatible with the honesty, integrity, diligence and judgment that is required of those in the industry," ASIC deputy chairman Peter Kell said at the time of the permanent ban.
AAT stated that although there is reason to believe he may not be a fit and proper person to be involved in credit activities, the evidence of his referees, his remorse and the out-of-character nature of the actions meant that the seriousness of the misconduct should be reduced.
The Mortgage &amp; Finance Association of Australia had previously suspended George from being a member for two years, with effect from 29 August 2011.
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Life ban reduced to three years for Quest Home Loans broker

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Some 35 kilometres west of Melbourne CBD, the City of Melton is a flat plain with a farming history, that seems to be finally making a bit of a mark.
<a href="/news">Melton</a> and <a href="/news">Melton South</a> are fast growing, well-serviced areas, but ones that may not be seeing any real capital growth for some time. This means good things for home buyers looking to get in over the medium-term, and yet it also doesn't appear investors are being put off by the hefty amounts of supply coming onto the pipeline or up for sale at present.
Part of the restraint on property prices is the steady release of land occurring around the area. Just over the past weekend, a Lend Lease <a href="/expert-insights/building/how-to-navigate-a-house-and-land-display-home-launch">display home launch attracted the attention of Property Observer</a>, promising residence for up to 4,000 people. Atherstone, the Lend Lease development, is just one in a stream of new house and land developments for the area that look to bring in families and quality new homes.
<blockquote>
The vacancy rate in the area currently sits at a fairly tight 2.2%, however there are a number up for rent at present.
</blockquote>
With another house and land creation, from developer <a href="https://www.waterfordlife.com.au/" target="_blank">608 Property, called Waterford</a> just a five minute drive further on down the road, and still many blocks unsold in the somewhat more built up but new offerings around the Exford Road end of Bridge Road itself, it remains unclear how long it will take for this supply to be absorbed. <a href="https://www.toolernwatersestate.com.au/" target="_blank">Toolern Waters</a> is also a short drive away, a 960 lot masterplanned development.
The vacancy rate in the area currently sits at a fairly tight 2.2%, however there are a number up for rent within the suburb and there appears to be little competition for some of the larger blocks - with demand dropping off the further away from Melton Station you get, which is actually located in Melton South's upper end. This is largely a house-dominated area, with few units to speak of around the Melton and Melton South suburbs.
KEY STATS ABOUT THE CITY OF MELTON
<ul>
<li>6,800 businesses registered 
</li>
<li>16,139 jobs</li>
</ul>
COUNCIL PLANS FOR 2030
<ul>
<li>67,675 additional dwellings. 
</li>
<li>185,170 additional residents. 
</li>
<li>New activity centres in Plumpton, Rockbank, Rockbank North and Hopkins Road, and a new Metropolitan Activity Centre in Toolern. 
</li>
<li>Growth in manufacturing industry.</li>
</ul>
Source: City of Melton Council
Melton South and Melton are structured around two main roads - Exford Road, which turns into Station Road and cuts through the middle of Melton South, and High Street, the main shopping strip for the area that is also home to a number of different real estate agencies. In addition to the High Street shops is Woodgrove Shopping Centre, that underwent the beginning of an $88 million expansion project in 2012 to more than double the centre by the end of 2013, which is complemented by the nearby and newly built Melton Library and Learning Hub that completed in June last year. It's worth noting that both of these relatively new pieces of infrastructure are usually busy with residents, and spoken of with some pride.
<blockquote>
The Melton Council also has their "growth" hat on, encouraging the creation of new suburbs and the strength of the area.
</blockquote>
This reflects the plan for the area, which saw a 2004 population recorded at 71,350 and a current 2020 population projection from the Department of Sustainability and Environment of 130,919. It appears this may be easily surpassed, with the City of Melton council estimating a total population of 125,409 as of 31 December 2013, with their estimates looking at "more than 241,000 by 2031", which would make the area the size of the Sunshine Coast. The Council also has their "growth" hat on, encouraging the creation of new suburbs and the strength of the area in their recent Economic Development and Tourism Plan 2014 to 2030.
Melton South is socioeconomically the most disadvantaged area within the City of Melton. However, compared to Greater Melbourne, the City of Melton is middling when looking at socioeconomic disadvantage. Police presence is, however, still heavy around Melton train station and it appears that it does have something of a stigma to shake off with signs noting it is a high crime location.
Within Melton South itself there is a smaller shopping plaza near the station, with a discount store, bakery, liquor shop, fruit and vegetable store, restaurant, Woolworths and other necessary outlets. There are also a number of take out shops, a fabric store, a tattoo parlour and a video store on the opposite side of the station. The City of Melton is noted to have one of the highest worker/local job ratios across the metropolitan growth areas, evidenced by the large number of signs up for local home-based businesses, yet despite this the 7am work day train to Southern Cross is continually full.
PROPERTIES OF NOTE
If you're a heritage property enthusiast, then it's worth an amble through the neighbourhood and down Exford Road, to where the notable Glenloth at 54 Exford Road - a council owned Edwardian-style beauty that is fairly unkempt - is located.  Originally on a large rural land holding, called Exford, it is now in the suburban context on a reduced block, and is noted as having local significance.
<blockquote>
More expensive properties, while seeing less rental interest, can achieve around $300 to $350 per week return.
</blockquote>
The Shire of Melton Heritage Study - Volume 4 notes that it "expresses one of the major themes of Australia's history - the contest between large pastoralists and small farmers for the land - and the abiding power of the yeomanry well into the twentieth century.
"The break up of the massive pastoral estates at the beginning of the twentieth century market a major new era in the history of Melton. The Shire was transformed by the Closer Settlement and Soldier Settlement Acts, as the emergence of new communities necessitated new roads and bridges and new primary schools."
Now there are a number of schools, churches, parks and even a university campus within the local area.
Buses run through, however it's poorly connected for anyone who doesn't work nine to five, prompting a busy taxi service to currently service the area. Similarly, the train takes 35 minutes on express to Southern Cross, however isn't a hugely frequent service during morning peak hour. This may be shaken up under plans long-discussed for the area, with potential additions at Deer Park West, Caroline Springs and Toolern, and might challenge some of the city dwellers' perspectives that Melton is "far away".
Despite remaining a fairly quiet area, the community remains shaken by a house fire and subsequent death of teenager Daniel Sheehy back in 2012, and occasional acts of vandalism around the time of the anniversary take place. While this comes as a surprise to some, locals confirmed that this has happened for the past few years and it is common to see graffiti on fences.
<blockquote>
SUBURB STATISTICS - MELTON HOUSES
MEDIAN PRICE: $245,000
MEDIAN ASKING RENT: $250 PER WEEK
INDICATIVE RENTAL YIELD: 5.31%
AVE. TIME ON MARKET: 88 DAYS
</blockquote>
With all of this occurring, it's unsurprising that Melton has already secured itself a place on many a person's "to watch" list. In 2012, it <a href="/news/vic/top-10-victorian-capital-growth-hotspots-with-ivanhoe-a-shining-star-for-past-five-years-reiv">scored in the Top 10 for the Real Estate Institute of Victoria's capital growth suburbs</a> for the year, meanwhile in August last year <a href="/news/melton-forecast-to-grow-strongly-over-next-25-years-prdnationwide">PRDnationwide forecasted strong growth for the area</a> over the next 25 years. The end of 2012 saw <a href="/expert-insights/investing/property-market-picking-up-in-outer-melbourne-suburb-of-melton-thanks-to-improved-buyer-sentiment-hockingstuart">Hockingstuart providing some good news about the Melton area</a> as well, with the market picking up in the top end. Melton's "top end" sits around the $400,000 mark, with the more common investment purchases being from $200,000 to $250,000 with rent from $250 to $285 a week. More expensive properties, while seeing less rental interest, can achieve around $300 to $350 per week return.
In fact, Melton has <a href="/news/vic/from-melton-to-berwick-the-33-melbourne-suburbs-with-affordable-three-bedroom-apartments">topped "cheapie" lists </a>on Property Observer for some time, and is unsurprisingly attractive to first home buyers for this reason, and for investors - with the market picking up and recent <a href="/expert-insights/buying/melton-south-cheapie-sells-for-190-000-reflecting-6-16-yield">sales to investors in Melton South being noted by local real estate agents</a>.
Listings websites are currently flooded with either cheap and new (or cheap new) properties, including many in the low-$300,000 bracket, as well as the occasional multi-million dollar rural listing.
For instance, <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-melton-116063279?listingType=buy" target="_blank">141 Barkers Lane, Melton</a> (pictured below) is listed for $249,699 (which includes a $10,000 FHOG, the advertisement reveals).
The three-bedroom, two-bathroom new offering includes two garage spaces, colour bond fencing and a modest 250 square metre block, from Sherridon Homes. It's centrally located.
<img src="/images/2014/04/10/melton%20april%2010%20one.jpg" alt="">
Meanwhile, <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-melton-116403767">2 Scott Street, Melton</a> (pictured below) is listed for $249,000 over 717 square metres, with a suggested possibility for subdivision.
The four-bedrooms, one-bathroom, two-car port home also has a 6X7 metre shed and ducted cooling and all bedrooms come with built in wardrobes. It appears the house could do with some updating, but is in fairly good condition.
<img src="/images/2014/04/10/melton-april-10-two.jpg" alt="">
For more specific statistics on Melton, and its surrounding suburbs, you can <a href="/news">view the relevant data page here</a>.
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Suburb spotlight: Melton council gearing up for growth

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New data from the National Land Survey Program has revealed that Gainsborough Greens, a Pimpama development from Mirvac, is the fastest selling land development on the Gold Coast.
The house and land masterplan is set to be <a href="/news/qld/gold-coasts-largest-masterplanned-community-underway">the Gold Coast's largest masterplanned community</a>, in an area that 'virtually doubled' from 2006 to 2011, and in February Property Observer reported that interest was at an "all time high" in the area.
{qtube vid:=PVKhkCCXLcA}
The development was reported as having an 11% market share of the land sales in the area over the past three quarters, at 88 of a total 822 sales. This was for between April and December 2013, of which the December quarter was the busiest period for the house and land development – with 43 sales.
In September last year <a href="/news/mirvacs-gainsborough-greens-records-record-quarter-of-sales-totaling-8-1-million">Mirvac announced a record number of sales in the development for Gainsborough Greens</a>, which will include 2,200 homes upon completion. The <a href="/news">Pimpama</a> community concept launched in late-2010.
Russell Berlee, the masterplanned communities Queensland development director for Mirvac, said that location, affordability and quality were at the heart of <a href="https://www.gainsborough-greens.mirvac.com/masterplan" target="_blank">Gainsborough Green</a>'s result, with the northern part of the Gold Coast performing well due to the ready availability of land.
"Gainsborough Greens is well positioned to benefit from this growth, and our home and land prices - starting from just $370,000 - are among the most affordable on the market, so we are getting a lot of interest from young couples and families looking to live in a brand new community at great value,” said Berlee.
The site includes a gold course, recreation centre and parks, with over 65% of the site for green spaces.
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The fastest selling land development on the Gold Coast is… Gainsborough Greens

For most new apartment buildings, the Owners Corporation starts life with little more than a bank account and the first quarterly strata levies.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/9-gay-street-castle-hill-9-gay-street-castle-hill-nsw-2154">9 Gay Street</a> in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/castle-hill-nsw-2154">Castle Hill</a>, it starts with around $7 million in reserve.

It's an unusual legacy of what was once one of Sydney's highest-profile apartment remediation projects. When the development, originally known as Skyview and built by disgraced developer Top Place, came under scrutiny by then NSW Building Commissioner David Chandler, an $11 million remediation bond was negotiated to ensure any building defects could be fully rectified.

The building underwent an 18-month remediation program, during which around $4 million of that bond was spent bringing the building up to the standard it should have been in from the outset.

After extensive inspections, all active rectification orders have been lifted. What's more, around $7.2 million remains secured for the Owners Corporation for the next 15 years.

In a twist few would have predicted, what began as a significant concern for purchasers has left the building with something almost unheard of in the apartment market: a multi-million-dollar financial reserve from day one.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147685 project_image_fid=359136]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Equitifund</a> Executive Chairman Greg Huxley said the structure offers buyers a level of certainty that is difficult to replicate.

"The $11 million bond established for the Skyview Castle Hill development represents exceptional value, providing genuine financial security for purchasers," Huxley said.

"Unlike a standard insurance policy, this bond consists of real funds held in trust for the Owners Corporation, offering a tangible layer of protection and added peace of mind."

The apartments themselves have been designed with a focus on practical, contemporary living. Interiors feature Smeg appliances, stone benchtops, tiled living areas, carpeted bedrooms, 2.7-metre ceilings, floor-to-ceiling glazing, and ducted heating and cooling throughout.

Residents also have access to a range of shared amenities, including two rooftop barbecue areas, a swimming pool, children's playgrounds, secure building access, storage cages, and visitor parking.

The location continues to be one of the project's strongest drawcards. Castle Hill Metro Station sits virtually on the doorstep, providing direct connections across Sydney's expanding Metro network, while Castle Towers offers extensive retail, dining, entertainment, and service amenities within walking distance.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147685 project_image_fid=359127]

The building, now named after its location at 9 Gay Street, comprises a diverse mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments starting from just under $600,000.

Equitifund National Sales Director Ben Hamblett said demand in the Hills District continues to be driven by buyers seeking convenience and connectivity.

"Interest from both owner-occupiers and investors in Castle Hill remains exceptionally strong, with buyers consistently prioritising developments in close proximity to the Metro station and Castle Towers Shopping Centre," Hamblett said.

"There is a clear trend in the market, with purchasers seeking convenient access to transport and lifestyle amenities that support a seamless, low-maintenance way of living."

On top of the long-term protection afforded by the remaining $7.2 million bond, Equitifund is offering a limited-time stamp duty rebate on selected apartments.

Eligible purchasers can also secure finance options, including a 3.99 per cent two-year variable rate, loan-to-value ratios of up to 90 per cent, and interest-only lending options through EquitiCredit.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=147685]

Joel Robinson

Why this Castle Hill apartment building starts with a $7 million advantage

For much of the past few years, conversations about Australia's property market have centred on the rapid growth seen in Sydney, Brisbane, Gold Coast, and Perth. <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/melbourne-vic-3004">Melbourne</a> has followed a different trajectory.

That relative underperformance is now encouraging some buyers to reassess the city, particularly those willing to look beyond short-term market movements and focus on quality property in established locations, along with the long-term growth prospects of a city expected to overtake Sydney as Australia’s most populous.

John Bekiaris, Research &amp; Market Insights at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Projects by Equitifund</a>, said Melbourne's current position is attracting increasingly sophisticated purchasers.

"Melbourne continues to present one of Australia's strongest long-term investment stories," Bekiaris says.

"While other capital cities have experienced stronger recent growth, that relative underperformance is exactly what's attracting sophisticated counter-cyclical investors."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1979 project_image_fid=363268]

Equitifund isn't just commenting on Melbourne's property market, it's investing in it.

The Sydney-headquartered capital partner has taken over the remaining apartments at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/victoriana-melbourne-20-queens-road-melbourne-vic-3004">Victoriana</a>, the recently completed glass-encased development opposite Albert Park Lake in Melbourne's tightly held St Kilda Road precinct.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a> and built by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/hickory">Hickory</a>, Victoriana places residents between one of Melbourne's most recognised parklands and the CBD, offering oversized two and three-bedroom apartments aimed at owner-occupiers seeking a genuine alternative to a traditional family home.

The development comprises 232 completed residences alongside a suite of resident amenities, including a 25-metre indoor swimming pool, gymnasium, landscaped entertaining areas, resident lounges, EV charging, secure basement parking and a concierge-style arrival experience.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1979 project_image_fid=363229]

The apartments have been designed with owner-occupiers firmly in mind.&nbsp;Open-plan living and dining areas flow onto generous balconies framing views across Albert Park Lake, Fawkner Park, the Royal Botanic Gardens and the Melbourne skyline.

Kitchens feature Gaggenau appliances, stone benchtops and generous preparation space. Bedrooms include built-in robes, while bathrooms feature full-height textured tiling. Hardwood flooring and ducted air conditioning complete residences designed for long-term living.

Rothelowman's architecture takes its cues from the landscape opposite the site. Sweeping horizontal glazing references the movement of Albert Park Lake, while generous balconies and expansive glazing strengthen the connection between the apartments and the surrounding parklands. The result is a building designed to deliver the scale and amenity expected of luxury apartment living, while offering the larger floorplans increasingly sought by owner-occupiers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1979 project_image_fid=363284]

The location is one of Victoriana's defining characteristics. Positioned on Queens Road, residents are directly opposite Albert Park Lake and within easy reach of Fawkner Park, the Royal Botanic Gardens, South Melbourne, St Kilda Road and the CBD. With few comparable development opportunities remaining in the precinct, buyers are increasingly placing value on outlooks that are unlikely to be interrupted by future construction.

Greg Huxley, Founder of Equitifund, believes those qualities become even more valuable over time.

"Premium real estate has always rewarded buyers who take a long-term view," Huxley said.

"Victoriana represents the kind of asset that's increasingly difficult to recreate today, particularly in an established location like Queens Road."

He said rising construction costs are also changing the way buyers assess completed developments.

"When you combine an irreplaceable location with thoughtful architecture and premium finishes, you create something that becomes increasingly difficult to reproduce as construction costs continue to rise."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1979 project_image_fid=363228]

According to National Sales Director Ben Hamblett, enquiry has been driven largely by Melbourne downsizers and buyers upgrading from smaller apartments.

"Interest in Victoriana continues to build, with strong buyer focus on the larger owner-occupier residences within the development," Hamblett says.

"Enquiry is increasingly driven by local buyers who recognise the rarity of what's on offer: park-facing apartments in an established neighbourhood where new development opportunities are becoming increasingly scarce. At Victoriana, the view is not just a feature; it's an appreciating asset in its own right."

He said interstate enquiry has also strengthened as buyers reassess Melbourne's position within the national property cycle.

"Melbourne currently stands as the most compelling entry point of any major Australian capital, and discerning buyers are beginning to recognise what those who move early always understand: the best opportunities are taken before the price rise confirms them."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=1979]

Why now is the time to buy in Melbourne's premium apartment market

Developers and apartment buyers have a narrowing window of opportunity before Brisbane's Olympic infrastructure pipeline begins competing directly with residential construction, pushing up costs, tightening labour supply and making new projects increasingly difficult to deliver.

While Brisbane's apartment market continues to benefit from strong population growth and limited housing supply, industry research suggests the years leading up to 2027 could prove to be the most important period for developers looking to secure builders and buyers hoping to purchase before the next wave of price increases.

A new Colliers report, Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games: Creating Solutions, highlights the scale of the challenge. While thousands of new homes are planned across South East Queensland, the Brisbane Olympic Athletes Village alone will deliver more than 10,500 beds during the Games before being converted into around 1,750 to 2,000 apartments. Equivalent to almost two years of typical inner-city apartment supply, the project will also absorb a significant share of the construction workforce and building materials.

The broader construction pipeline paints an even clearer picture.

Construction Skills Queensland's Horizon 2032 report forecasts Queensland's annual construction pipeline will average $69 billion over the coming years before peaking at $75 billion in 2027-28. Demand for construction workers is expected to increase by 17 per cent to almost 150,000 people, with the industry facing an annual shortfall of around 19,000 workers that could blow out to as many as 35,000 during the peak construction period.

The Olympic venues, athletes village and supporting infrastructure will account for billions of dollars worth of work across South East Queensland through to 2032, creating intense competition for labour at a time when Australia's residential construction sector is already under pressure.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150489 project_image_fid=373834]

Colliers Queensland Residential Director Andrew Scriven said the convergence of these projects is creating a clear window of opportunity for both developers and buyers.

"From 2027 onwards, the market will shift dramatically," Scriven said.

"Labour will increasingly be locked into government-led infrastructure and Olympic projects, which means private residential developments will face higher costs and tighter margins. The developers who move now are the ones most likely to get projects off the ground."

Scriven said the same dynamic would also affect buyers, with fewer apartment projects expected to launch once construction capacity tightens.

"If you're looking to change your lifestyle over the next five years, now is your window of opportunity to buy."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150713 project_image_fid=373827]

Developers are already positioning themselves ahead of that window.

Following the success of Monarch at Toowong, Consolidated Properties is preparing to launch two new Brisbane apartment projects in the second half of 2026. They include <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/gloriette-30-bedivere-street-yeerongpilly-qld-4105">Gloriette</a> at Yeerongpilly Green, a 25-storey tower within one of Brisbane's key Olympic precincts, and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/castile-47-skyring-terrace-newstead-qld-4006">Castile</a>, a recently approved 25-storey riverfront development at 47 Skyring Terrace in Newstead.

Hutchinson Builders will deliver both projects, with early works already underway at Yeerongpilly and Newstead expected to commence later this year.

The timing comes as Brisbane's fundamentals continue to strengthen, with strong interstate migration, population growth and vacancy rates remaining below 1.5 per cent.

Colliers Queensland researcher Pragya Sharma said Greater Brisbane is forecast to require around 40,000 new apartments between 2021 and 2031.

"There's a real mismatch emerging between when housing is needed and when it will be feasible to build," Sharma said.

"As a result, the period leading up to 2027 presents a key window of opportunity for developers to secure approvals, funding and construction capacity, while buyers will have greater choice before supply constraints intensify."

Colliers research outlines a critical pre-2027 window to start residential projects before labour squeeze: now is the time to buy

Developers, buyers on watch in South East Queensland ahead of construction crunch: Colliers

It's taken less than nine months for developer Sherpa Property Group to sell out all 51 apartments in its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-oasis-palm-beach-7-9-sixth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Oasis</a> development in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/palm-beach-qld-4221">Palm Beach</a>, over a year before its anticipated completion.

&nbsp;

Located at 7-9 Sixth Avenue, the $67 million development has resonated strongly with both local owner-occupiers and downsizers seeking high-quality apartments within walking distance of the beach, dining precincts and everyday amenities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151449 project_image_fid=357458]

Christie Leet, Founder of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sherpa-property-group">Sherpa Group</a>, said the sell-out reflected both the strength of the Palm Beach market and the success of Sherpa's community-first approach to development.

"The sell-out of Oasis is a fantastic outcome and reinforces the strong demand we're seeing for thoughtfully designed apartments in lifestyle locations," Leet said.

"From the outset, our vision was to create a development that genuinely enhanced the Palm Beach community while providing residents with exceptional homes and wellness-focused amenities.

"We've been incredibly encouraged by the level of local support throughout the campaign, 72.5 per cent of buyers are locals, with a significant proportion of purchasers choosing Oasis as their future home rather than an investment."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151449 project_image_fid=357463]

Construction is now progressing following development approval, with trusted builder LPS Group delivering the project and completion anticipated in Q3 2027.

Oasis forms part of Sherpa Group's successful Flourish collection, which has become recognised for its focus on wellness, community and elevated coastal living.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151449 project_image_fid=357469]

Residents will have private access to a rooftop amenity space featuring a pool, gym, sauna, steam room, hot and cold plunge pools, spa and barbecue facilities.

"The success of Oasis demonstrates that buyers continue to prioritise quality, location and lifestyle," Leet said.

"We are proud to have delivered a project that has resonated so strongly with the market and look forward to bringing Oasis to life for our future residents."

Sherpa recently launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-soleira-palm-beach-1150-1160-gold-coast-highway-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Soleira</a>, its third instalment of the Flourish brand in Palm Beach following Flourish Oasis and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/amargo-6-12-sixth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Amargo</a>.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=151449]

Sherpa sells out Flourish Oasis in booming Palm Beach

Urban Property Group's <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/la-vera-macquarie-park-94-talavera-road-macquarie-park-nsw-2113">La Vera</a> is leading the next phase of Macquarie Park's residential evolution, with the new apartment development set to become the first of several new apartment projects in the precinct to complete.

The 169-apartment building has now topped out ahead of its scheduled completion in the third quarter of 2026, as new residential investment continues to reshape one of Sydney's largest employment hubs into a true mixed-use precinct.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134951 project_image_fid=368645]

Cox Architecture has designed La Vera to capture the best of its unique positioning on Talavera Road, orienting the building towards Lane Cove National Park.&nbsp;The building features a sculpted northern façade with flowing curves inspired by the surrounding landscape, while its city-facing elevation adopts a more structured architectural expression to maximise skyline views.

"The vision for the project was to conceive a building that adopted an organic and curvilinear form to the northern portion that faces the Lane Cove National Park," <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">Cox Architecture</a> Director Felipe Miranda said.

"The residents that reside in the northern portion of the building benefit by having beautifully crafted curved balconies that speak to the natural context and heighten the relationship of their internal living spaces to the external balconies."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134951 project_image_fid=358802]

La Vera offers a diverse mix of one, two, three, and four-bedroom configurations, with prices currently starting from $740,000. Buyers so far have been a mix of Sydney-based investors,&nbsp;metro commuters, owner-occupiers and downsizers from surrounding North Shore suburbs.

Both investors and owner-occupiers have been drawn to La Vera's proximity to Macquarie University, Macquarie University Hospital, Macquarie Centre and the Sydney Metro, infrastructure that supports both strong rental demand and a convenient lifestyle for residents.

The apartments feature full-height glazing, timber flooring throughout living areas, stone kitchen benchtops, SMEG appliances, floor-to-ceiling bathroom tiling and ducted air conditioning.

Residents will have access to a rooftop recreation level featuring a swimming pool, sauna, barbecue facilities and landscaped relaxation areas, complemented by additional communal space at ground level. Many apartments enjoy uninterrupted views across Lane Cove National Park, reinforcing the project's connection to its natural setting.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134951 project_image_fid=364551]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a>, a family-owned developer and builder with nearly four decades of experience, holds a 4.5-star iCIRT rating and was Australia's first developer to introduce 10-Year Latent Defects Insurance (LDI). La Vera is the first apartment development in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/macquarie-park-nsw-2113">Macquarie Park</a> approved to offer the additional insurance protection, alongside a five-year warranty on SMEG appliances.

Urban Property Group CEO Patrick Elias said the additional protection reflects changing buyer expectations in the off the plan market.

"Consumers are a lot more weary and a lot more concerned in buying off the plan than they ever have been. Having LDI is a tool to portray the confidence that we have in our product, and a confidence we want buyers to share," Elias said.

Following completion of the building later this year, buyers will move into their apartments well before Christmas.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134951]

Jennifer Duke

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