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Park Trent Properties Group Pty Ltd, known as Park Trent, is under scrutiny from ASIC.
ASIC has commenced proceedings in the Supreme Court of New South Wales, where they seek interim and final orders that will stop the property promoters from carrying on an unlicensed financial services business.
Park Trent’s property promotion includes the use of SMSFs to purchase property. ASIC alleges that they are unlawfully carrying on a financial services business without a financial services licence.
At least 500 members of the public have been advised by Park Trent to start an SMSF and switch funds into it to then buy investment properties owned or promoted by Park Trent companies, according to ASIC, who are seeking orders to force Park Trent to notify current and former clients about the proceeding.
They would also be required to post details about the proceeding on their website.
Park Trent currently has almost 14,000 likes on Facebook and hold seminars across the country with offices in every state and territory apart from Tasmania and the Northern Territory.
The<a href="https://www.parktrent.com.au/finance/smsf/why-smsf/" target="_blank"> SMSF section of their website</a> encourages those who are interested in reading more to call their “EasyPlan Financial Services” team.
No doubt this will be of interest to other SMSF property promoters that do not hold financial services licences.
ASIC commissioner Greg Tanzer said that Australians hold more than $1.85 trillion in superannuation funds assets, including $557 billion in SMSFs.
“It is important when making decisions regarding superannuation to consider obtaining appropriate advice from an authorised financial adviser,” he said.
“Dealing with an authorised adviser affords specific protections under the law, such as acting in the best interests of clients, a duty to avoid conflicts of interest and providing access to dispute resolution schemes.”
The first hearing is listed for 26 November.
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ASIC commences proceedings against property promoter Park Trent Properties

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Carrum Downs couple Maureen Gael Johnson, 58, and Douglas Gordon Johnston, 71, have been charged with more than 70 offences relating to an alleged $1.5 million property development fraud, following an investigation by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC).
ASIC investigated two companies: Investman Nominees (USA) Pty Ltd and Small Business Management Pty Ltd, of which Maureen Johnston was a former director and current director respectively. Douglas Johnston was the former accountant and current shareholder of Small Business Management.
The Victorian duo is accused of misleading people into investing $1.5 million into a number of property developments across Australia and the United States. Allegedly, the money raised was not used to develop properties, but for the couple’s own personal benefit, resembling a ‘<a href="https://www.sec.gov/answers/ponzi.htm" target="_blank">Ponzi scheme</a>’.
The Herald Sun reports that Maureen Johnston was a high roller at Melbourne's Crown Casino where she had used her connections with Collingwood football players to help her befriend potential targets.
Maureen Johnston faces 52 counts, while Douglas Johnston faces 25. The charges include fraud, obtaining a financial advantage or property by deception and attempting to pervert the course of justice. Some of these offences carry a maximum penalty of 10 years imprisonment.
The couple are set to appear at the Melbourne Magistrates Court on 28 January 2015.
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Couple charged for alleged $1.5 million "Ponzi" property development fraud

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An interesting picture emerges from the list of top yielding suburbs across Western Australia and Queensland.
With a total of 33 suburbs at 7.00% or above, or 17 in Queensland and 16 in Western Australia according to RP Data, Property Observer decided to look at which areas are influenced by mining.
Using a combination of 2011 Census Data employment statistics, and local government details to notify when a mine is nearby, each town in the list below has been tagged with ‘resources influence’ if mining or associated industries affect the area in a significant way. That’s not to say, of course, that mining is the only driver in some of these towns, nor that those without this tag have not been affected at all by the mining boom.
In total, 23 of the locations on our list were given a ‘resources influence’ tag. Their rental yields range from 11.7% to 7.00%.
Interestingly, some of the much discussed and atypical mining towns did not make the top yielding house list. Moranbah’s average gross rental yield for a house sits at 6.30%. However, when yields for units area strong 8.32%.
23 suburbs emerge with unit yields recorded at or above 7.00%, some doubling up on the list below. For instance, South Hedland units recorded 7.77% average gross rental yield.
One mining area that also managed to get onto the unit list was Queensland’s North Mackay, with units offering a 7.25% yield. Western Australia’s Kalgoorlie also made the list, offering 7.00%.
With mining town rental yields in the past pushing into low double figures, it's interesting to note that just two of those on this list surpassed the 10% mark. When looking at units just one suburb managed to attain this same strength, with the Sunshine Coast's Peregian Springs boasting a 10.53% gross rental yield.
Click over the page to see the full list of suburbs.
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
These statistics are based on the latest available house information from RP Data:
<ul>
<li><a href="/news">Miles</a>, Qld</li>
</ul>
11.7%
Resources influence
<ul>
<li><a href="/news">Mount Morgan</a>, Qld</li>
</ul>
10.35%
Resources influence
<ul>
<li><a href="/news">Kambalda West</a>, WA</li>
</ul>
9.84%
Resources influence
<ul>
<li><a href="/news">Port Hedland</a>, WA</li>
</ul>
9.00%
Resources influence
<ul>
<li><a href="/news">South Hedland</a>, WA</li>
</ul>
8.89%
Resources influence
<ul>
<li><a href="/news">Charleville</a>, Qld</li>
</ul>
8.79%
<ul>
<li><a href="/news">Dysart</a>, Qld</li>
</ul>
8.67%
Resources influence
<ul>
<li><a href="/news">Cloncurry</a>, Qld</li>
</ul>
8.45%
<ul>
<li><a href="/news">Nickol</a>, WA</li>
</ul>
8.40%
Resources influence
<ul>
<li><a href="/news">Newman</a>, WA</li>
</ul>
8.32%
Resources influence
<ul>
<li><a href="/news">Depot Hill</a>, Qld</li>
</ul>
8.25%
<ul>
<li><a href="/news">Soldiers Hill</a>, Qld</li>
</ul>
8.14%
Resources influence
<ul>
<li><a href="/news">Clermont</a>, Qld</li>
</ul>
8.13%
Resources influence
<ul>
<li><a href="/news">Yarloop</a>, WA</li>
</ul>
8.13%
<ul>
<li><a href="/news">South Boulder</a>, WA</li>
</ul>
8.03%
Resources influence
<ul>
<li><a href="/news">Pegs Creek</a>, WA</li>
</ul>
8.00%
Resources influence
<ul>
<li><a href="/news">Sunset</a>, Qld</li>
</ul>
7.73%
Resources influence
<ul>
<li><a href="/news">Mornington</a>, Qld</li>
</ul>
7.72%
Resources influence
<ul>
<li><a href="/news">Baynton</a>, WA</li>
</ul>
7.70%
Resources influence
<ul>
<li><a href="/news">Coolgardie</a>, WA</li>
</ul>
7.65%
Resources influence
<ul>
<li><a href="/news">Dinmore</a>, Qld</li>
</ul>
7.58%
<ul>
<li><a href="/news">Victory Heights</a>, WA</li>
</ul>
7.55%
<ul>
<li><a href="/news">Kambalda East</a>, WA</li>
</ul>
7.48%
Resources influence
<ul>
<li><a href="/news">Parkside</a>, Qld</li>
</ul>
7.31%
Resources influence
<ul>
<li><a href="/news">Healy</a>, Qld</li>
</ul>
7.23%
Resources influence
<ul>
<li><a href="/news">Jandowae</a>, Qld</li>
</ul>
7.21%
<ul>
<li><a href="/news">Derby</a>, WA</li>
</ul>
7.18%
Resources influence
<ul>
<li><a href="/news">Murgon</a>, Qld</li>
</ul>
7.17%
<ul>
<li><a href="/news">Roma</a>, Qld</li>
</ul>
7.09%
Resources influence
<ul>
<li><a href="/news">Bulgarra</a>, WA</li>
</ul>
7.06%
Resources influence
<ul>
<li><a href="/news">Bundaberg South</a>, Qld</li>
</ul>
7.03%
<a href="/news">Narrogin</a>, WA
7.02
<ul>
<li><a href="/news">Brockman</a>, WA</li>
</ul>
7.00%
Resources influence
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Mining a clear winner for top yielding Queensland, Western Australia areas

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The Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) have suspended a Langwarrin real estate agent for failing to exert adequate control over her agency.
Gayle Stewart’s real estate licence has been suspended until January 2015 after she failed in a number of her duties as officer in effective control of 11th Empire Pty Ltd, trading as LJ Hooker Langwarrin.
The company traded from mid-2012 to February 2014.
Consumer Affairs Victoria suspended Stewart and 11th Empire in July 2013, before filing VCAT proceedings.
VCAT suspended Stewart for a further nine months. In total, Stewart's licence will was suspended for a total of 18 months.
The company went into liquidation after their licences were suspended.
Stewart was found to have failed to supervise the agency business, which she was responsible for, as well as failed to establish procedures to ensure that business was done legally and with good practice and to monitor the business to ensure compliance.
Stewart did not make proper enquiries. For instance, when co-signing cheques to a value of more than $100,000 from the agency’s general account, even when she doubted the honesty of the person receiving the funds.
She had also signed cheques after funds were incorrectly put into the general account, rather than the agency’s trust account. While she did not know this at the time, she was told she should have conducted further enquiries. Stewart was also reprimanded for failing to control the real estate agency.
VCAT warned that the officer in effective control’s role is pivotal to protect the public. Those in this role who are not in effective control should resign, even when acting honestly.
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Victorian agent suspended for failing to control agency

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A new $30.5 million affordable housing project in West Perth has no parking, but does offer scooter bays for buyers and tenants.
The <a href="https://www.diploma.com.au/Menu/Property-Development/Projects/Abode.aspx" target="_blank">Abode apartment project</a> is a public-private partnership called a “new breed” of project bringing inner city affordable housing to help reduce urban sprawl. This is part of the Affordable Housing Strategy 2010 to 2020: Opening Doors to Affordable Housing and saw the Department of Housing provide the land, worth $4.5 million.
It is located near to Harold Boas Gardens, and designed by Perth-based architectural firm Jones Coulter Young.
<img src="/images/2014/11/10/west-perth-nov-10-breakout.jpg" alt="">
The 6 Campbell Street apartment project achieved all pre-sales targets by February 2013 and was completely sold by July 2014, with a number of units kept aside for affordable housing initiatives.
This included 10 apartments retained for those with social housing eligibility and another 15 to house those under the Western Australian government’s shared equity home ownership program and tenants renting under NRAS. This covers a total of one third of the apartments.
In total, 86 apartments are being built across 10 storeys, including a number of one bedroom units with scooter bays.
The full price for the apartments was $333,000. Shared equity prices were brought down to $285,000. Some will have views of Perth’s city skyline.
Housing Minister Bill Marmion said that it is just the second project where the state government has joined with developer Diploma Properties. 
“Rather than being a passive seller of the land, the government has been an active equity partner, effectively leveraging more than $70 million in private sector investment, firstly for the One on Aberdeen project and now with the Abode apartments,” said Marmion.
Blackburne Property Group, who had previously been marketing the apartments, noted that local one bedroom, one bathroom apartments could achieve $580 to $650 per week rent furnished, or $500 to $550 unfurnished. The median unit price in <a href="/news">West Perth</a>, according to RP Data, is $535,000.
Construction is expected to be completed in March 2015, although earlier estimates were for mid-2014.
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No parking: Scooter bays for NRAS tenants in Perth’s Abode apartments

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Looking at the pricey purchases made by the elite in Australia is one thing, but what about the property buying behaviour of those elsewhere?
From Buckingham Place in the UK and Antilla in Mumbia, both sitting at $1 billion plus, and spanning Oprah Winfrey’s home, the list is certainly packed with royals and famous business people who have lavished big money on their homes.
Here is <a href="https://comparecamp.com/comparison-of-the-most-expensive-houses/" target="_blank">Compare Camp</a>’s infographic of the top 10 most expensive properties in the world.
<img src="/images/2014/11/10/expensive-houses-infographic%20no%2010.jpg" alt="">
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Infographic: The 10 most expensive houses in the world

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Offering an opportunity to purchase in one of the few significant waterfront sites left in Balmain, apartments in TOGA’s Harbourfront Balmain will go on sale tomorrow.<a href="https://www.harbourfrontbalmain.com.au/" target="_blank"> </a>
TOGA is developing <a href="https://www.harbourfrontbalmain.com.au/" target="_blank">the project</a> in conjunction with Far East Orchard Limited.
The residential, retail and commercial precinct, in Sydney’s inner west, spans 150 metres of harbour frontage, with views to Sydney Harbour.
Designed by architect and interior designer Bates Smart, the development will include one, two and three bedroom residences. There will also be nine terrace homes over eight exclusive low-rise buildings of three to five storeys. All will have basement parking. Facilities include gardens, a gym and an outdoor swimming pool.
TOGA development and construction CEO Fabrizio Perilli said that the city fringe area is well serviced with transport links and has green spaces and a village ambience that will attract buyers.
“Consistent demand drives up prices, and those on the lookout for prestige homes or investments in premium locations are increasingly finding themselves priced out of the market,” he said.
Sales commence Saturday 8 November, with apartments starting from $760,000. A sales suite is available at 100-102 Elliott Street.
Construction is due to start mid-2015, with a 2017 completion date.
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Sales commence tomorrow for Harbourfront Balmain

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The Gold Coast’s resurgent tourism market has proven to be one of the biggest drivers of the property market, according to one of the larger agents on the Gold Coast, Ray White Surfers Paradise.
A total of 163 sales to offshore and interstate buyers were recorded by the agency over the September quarter, 49% of their total transactions. This is an increase of 35% on their 2013 September quarter sales to these categories.
“In the past few months we have witnessed a significant rise in buyers from interstate or overseas,” said Ray White Surfers Paradise CEO Andrew Bell.
“This shows how significant the national and international markets are for the Gold Coast right now. Many buyers, particularly from Sydney and Melbourne, are well-heeled having reaped the rewards of property price growth in their own cities.”
Bell explained that Sydney and Melbourne buyers see the Gold Coast as in a recovery swing and currently representing good value.
In the past year, the agency has sold more than 300 properties to Chinese buyers, aligning with international tourism figures being up 5.5% for the Gold Coast, with Malaysian tourism up 40%.
“There is also an increasing number of people deciding to move here permanently, encouraged by more affordable real estate on the Gold Coast than in the southern states,” Bell said.
“For example, many Sydneysiders can sell their current home, free up equity and then move to a similar-standard property on the Gold Coast with enough money to spare for an investment."
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Tourism driving resurgent Gold Coast market: Ray White

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Kostantinos Balasis, a former Craigieburn real estate agent, has been sentenced to a 12 month jail term with six months non-parole after his appeal was rejected by the Victorian County Court.
Balasis had admitted to trust account offences that totalled deficiencies of $438,395.
Not only was his appeal recently rejected, but his previous compensation order of $203,992 was hiked up to $305,092. He is also liable to pay costs.
Had Balasis not plead guilty, Magistrate Patrick Sothey warned he would have imposed a 20 month prison sentence with 10 month non-parole period.
His sentence was ruled appropriate by the Court on appeal due to the large sum of money involved, breach of trust, breach of statutory duty and breach of fiduciary obligations to his consumers.
Balasis’ company Victorian Realty Group Pty Ltd operated as Century 21 Complete Properties Craigieburn from 2009 to 2012.
Between January 2011 and August 2011, he converted $346,900 worth of deposits from 12 Craigieburn townhouses for his personal use, without returning it. He also did not pay two sellers of a property in Roxburgh Park the $25,000 he was holding for them in April 2012. First, he gave them a cheque that bounced before providing a second cheque, which also bounced.
In May 2012, Balasis failed to provide two home buyers a deposit of $35,995 after they rescinded from buying a Craigieburn home. The cheque also bounced in this instance.
In July 2012, Balasis neglected to pay a seller the $30,500 deposit that she was entitled to after selling her home.
Consumer Affairs Victoria began an investigation of Century 21 Craigieburn in April of that year, seizing documents that lead to criminal prosecution.
The affected consumers have made claims against the Victorian Property Fund.
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Former Craigieburn agent loses appeal against 12 month jail sentence

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Everyone thinks they’re a bit of a real estate expert, and while that makes for fun family BBQs, it doesn’t necessarily mean you should take everything as gospel.
When anyone offers you their two cents (and sometimes more) on the property market, it’s worth asking the following questions to determine how much you can actually rely on the details.
Some of these you can ask to the individual themselves, while others are for you to consider.
Here’s our seven questions to be asking:
<ol>
<li>
Who is paying them? Following the money has always been a good strategy in real estate. Someone you are paying is more likely to have your best interests at heart. For instance, a buyer’s agent that you pay a fee to is more likely to be working for you and giving you good advice than the real estate agent who is receiving a commission from the vendor’s sale. Find out where they get their money from, and any conflicts of interest that may arise from kickbacks or commissions. 
</li>
<li>
What data is this information based on? Asking to see the statistics and source material behind someone’s assertion can help you out. Everyone’s interpretation of information differs, and it’s worth figuring out if you agree with the interpretation being provided by the guru you’re speaking to. You may also discover issues in their source data, or a selective choice of information. Head back to the source. If they are hesitant to reveal their statistics and sources, it’s time to be wary. 
</li>
<li>
Do they have any personal experience with what they are telling you? Personal experience can give someone a specialised level of expertise, and a mentor who has “been there” can quickly point out issues with your renovation plans, or tell you what you might need to watch out for. This can be invaluable. However, beware of the expert who hasn’t done it themselves before and relies on living through others’ experiences. Certainly, not every person must have personal experience, but it can help understand where they’re coming from. For those who have invested and been burnt in the past, you may also find that there is some personal bias and risk aversion. Ensure that you know what experiences they have had so you are aware of any potential bias. 
</li>
<li>
How much professional experience do they have? For those in the industry, it’s worth knowing what education they’ve had and for how long they have been in the profession. While this doesn’t mean that anyone without that level of industry experience cannot provide good information, and certainly doesn’t suggest that all industry veterans are well placed to assist, it does allow you to be on your guard. For those that are not in the industry, such as family and friends, it’s worth knowing what their other qualifications are. There are many overlapping and useful details 
</li>
<li>
Why are they offering you the information? As above, if you’ve paid for the services that is one reason someone will provide information. Otherwise you want to know whether they’re selling you something or trying to do a good deed. Understanding the motivations of the expert will go a long way to explaining the type of advice they’re dishing out. 
</li>
<li>
Is the information ratified by any other experts? Knowing whether many other professionals or knowledgeable property buyers agree with this individual can help you find out problems before they affect your purchase. Look for the arguments other experts have made against them, either in news articles online, forums or just by speaking to them, and think carefully about whether these counterpoints have much ground. Take the opposing arguments to that expert to really test their advice. 
</li>
<li>
How have they made their advice relate to you? If their advice is generic, it’s worth being wary. If they know nothing about your finances, tolerance for risk, background and future plans, then it’s likely not prudent for them to be suggesting a first time buyer drops $800,000 on a mining town investment. The more they ask about you, and the more flexible they are around your personal circumstances, the more likely they are actually considering what investment suits your profile. There is no one size fits all for every buyer.
</li>
</ol>
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Seven questions that will help test "expert" advice

Melbourne developer Spacious Group has completed Voyage Altona, one of the closest new apartment developments to Altona Beach.

Off the plan purchasers have started moving into the 49-apartment project on Pier Street, with the remaining move-in-ready one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments starting from just over $500,000.

Display apartments have now been fitted out, allowing prospective buyers to inspect the completed residences by appointment.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112195 project_image_fid=372638]

The completed apartments feature open-plan living and dining areas which extend onto private balconies and terraces, while full-height glazing maximises natural light throughout the interiors.&nbsp;

Hybrid timber-look flooring, stone benchtops, Miele appliances, porcelain-tiled bathrooms and generous storage feature throughout the building which also features landscaped communal areas, expansive shared terraces, lift access and secure on-grade parking.

Drawing inspiration from its bayside setting, Voyage adopts a restrained palette of warm neutral tones and textured finishes. Many of the apartments take advantage of views across Port Phillip Bay, while the indoor-outdoor living spaces have been designed to make the most of the coastal outlook.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112195 project_image_fid=3286]

Voyage was developed to address what Spacious Group identified as an undersupply of higher-quality apartment product in Altona, with a focus on owner-occupiers looking to remain within the bayside community.

"Voyage responds to very strong local buyer demand for quality, owner-occupier-focused product," says Barry Plant Projects Director Jarrod Farey, who has handled sales since the project's launch.

"The project delivers an elevated lifestyle proposition, with its design and quality of finish far exceeding anything previously produced in the area, as well as its proximity to Pier Street Village and the beach."

The majority of purchasers have been local downsizers and owner-occupiers looking to stay within the Altona community but who previously had limited opportunities to buy a brand-new apartment.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112195]

Joel Robinson

Spacious Group completes Voyage Altona in Altona's beachside precinct

Homecorp has secured approval for a $360 million apartment development at Budds Beach, paving the way for one of the Gold Coast's most amenity-rich residential projects to launch later this year.

Gold Coast City Council has approved Lýon Residences, a 32-level tower that will deliver 178 two and three-bedroom apartments across a prominent corner site at 8-10 Acacia Avenue and 25-27 Oak Avenue.

The approval comes as developers continue to invest in premium lifestyle-driven apartment projects on the Gold Coast, where owner occupiers are increasingly prioritising amenity as much as apartment size and location.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/l-on-residences-25-27-oak-avenue-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Lýon Residences</a> has been designed around a resort-style wellness offering, headlined by a Moroccan-inspired spa precinct featuring treatment rooms, a Nordic sauna and steam room, hot and cold plunge pools, a soaking pool and a residents-only juice bar.

The rooftop will include a heated infinity pool and spa, residents' lounge with private kitchen and bar, gymnasium, yoga and Pilates studio, outdoor entertaining areas and barbecue facilities overlooking the Surfers Paradise skyline.

<img alt="Lyon" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2d3e29af-8793-486e-a684-52cef862241f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-15%20at%204.32.26%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=ayG2zpLf3SS6Zy8XmKDcQods4kVWb0gm" />

Homecorp Founder and CEO Ron Bakir said Budds Beach provided the ideal location for the company's latest luxury apartment project.

"Budds Beach represents one of the most unique and sought-after pockets of the Gold Coast, and Lýon Residences has been designed to reflect that sense of rarity and refinement," Bakir said.

The project arrives as wellness continues to become a defining feature of new residential developments both in Australia and internationally.

The latest Global Wellness Institute figures show wellness real estate remains the fastest-growing segment of the global wellness economy and is forecast to exceed $1.8 trillion by 2030. Australia continues to rank among the world's 15 largest wellness real estate markets, with developers increasingly integrating health, recreation and community facilities into apartment projects.

Queensland is also experiencing strong population growth, with the Gold Coast continuing to outperform many other Australian cities as demand for new housing remains elevated ahead of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Bakir said the project had been designed to respond to that shift in buyer expectations.

"Strong population growth and sustained demand across the Gold Coast continue to highlight the need for well-designed new housing supply. Lýon Residences responds directly to this demand while setting a new benchmark for residential living," he said.

Each apartment has been designed to maximise views across the coastline, the Nerang River and the Gold Coast hinterland.

Located just minutes from Surfers Paradise beach and the Broadwater, the development also offers easy access to the light rail network, Broadbeach and Burleigh Heads.

Early site works are underway, with construction expected to commence later this year.

Homecorp approved for Budds Beach apartment tower, Lýon Residences

New apartment developments with uninterrupted, north-facing views over Perth's Swan River are exceptionally rare.

Recognising just how limited those opportunities are, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/edge-visionary-living">Edge Visionary Living</a>, one of Perth's most respected builder-developers, targeted <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/applecross-wa-6153">Applecross</a>, assembling an unrepeatable 6,342 sqm riverfront site on the corner of Moreau Mews and Canning Beach Road to create one of Perth's only new north-facing apartment developments directly overlooking the Swan River.

Today, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/riviere-residences-applecross-59-canning-beach-road-applecross-wa-6153">Rivière Residences</a> offers buyers a unique opportunity to choose between completed residences ready to move into now and off-the-plan homes in the final stage, Rivière West.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=28384 project_image_fid=3823]

Across the completed East and Central buildings, residents are already enjoying the development's luxury amenity, while two of the precinct's hospitality venues are now open.

The completed component of the development gives buyers the advantage of experiencing the finished product firsthand, including its uninterrupted river views, while still having the opportunity to secure a residence in the final stage.

"People are wowed by the view and the quality of the apartments,"&nbsp;Edge Visionary Living Sales Executive, Holly McSweeney, says.

"They're looking for the convenience of lock-and-leave living, but they're not looking to downsize on quality."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=28384 project_image_fid=3826]

The rarity of the development hasn't been lost on prospective buyers, McSweeney says.

For McSweeney, it all comes back to a location that is becoming increasingly difficult to replicate.

"Location, location, location," she says. "We are nestled right on the front of the Swan River. You can never get built out, so wherever you are in Rivière Residences, you've got views of the river forever."

The unique waterfront position has resonated particularly strongly with local downsizers. McSweeney says many buyers are long-time Applecross residents looking to transition from large family homes into a luxury apartment without sacrificing space, quality or the lifestyle they've enjoyed for decades.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/N_FowNW0wu8?si=vb25XFq1wZ-iufAW" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

A major focus for Edge in recent years has been resident amenity. Across its apartment portfolio, from beachfront developments in Scarborough to luxury towers in South Perth, the developer has increasingly invested in the spaces beyond the apartment itself.

The strategy has largely been shaped by downsizer demand. Many buyers are moving from large family homes with swimming pools and established gardens. While they're looking to leave the maintenance behind, they don't want to compromise on lifestyle.

At Rivière, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hillam-architects">Hillam Architects</a> designed the resident facilities as an extension of each apartment. A 25-metre heated swimming pool takes advantage of the north-facing river outlook, complemented by a large gym, sauna and steam rooms, private dining spaces, residents' lounges, a cinema, games room, and dedicated wine and whisky rooms.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=28384 project_image_fid=372542]

The waterfront location has also proved to be a major drawcard. Residents are within walking distance of the Raffles Hotel, South of Perth Yacht Club, the Heathcote Cultural Precinct and the cafés, restaurants and boutiques along Ardross Street.

Beyond the location and amenity, McSweeney says many buyers take confidence from Edge's fully integrated development model.

Having delivered apartments across Perth for decades, Edge now designs, develops and constructs its projects in-house, giving the company greater control over quality, delivery and the finished product.

"What I love is when people walk through their apartment for the first time and say, 'This is better than what we imagined,'" McSweeney says. "We hear that all the time."

Completed apartments in the East and Central buildings are now available to inspect by appointment, while Rivière West, the final stage of the precinct, is expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2027.

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North-facing Swan River views drive demand at Rivière Residences in Applecross

Nearly 60 per cent of apartments at McNab Group's $220 million The Tannery development in Brisbane's West End have sold ahead of the project's public launch, including a suburb-record $2.57 million sale for a two-bedroom apartment.

The early sales campaign has secured buyers for 50 of the project's 87 apartments, highlighting continued demand for larger owner-occupier apartments that combine generous floorplans with premium lifestyle amenities in one of Brisbane's most tightly held inner-city suburbs.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=143337 project_image_fid=374768]

McNab Group Executive Chairman Michael McNab said selling more than half the project before launch reflected changing buyer expectations.

"Selling more than half the project before public sales open tells us buyers are actively seeking apartments that offer something genuinely different," McNab said.

"Today's buyers are looking beyond four walls. They want homes that genuinely enhance the way they live, with spaces that support health, connection and everyday wellbeing."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=143337 project_image_fid=374767]

A key point of difference for the project is the adaptive reuse of the heritage-listed Dixon's Tannery building, which will become The Retreat, a residents-only wellness precinct rather than being redeveloped into additional apartments.

The Retreat will feature a sauna and steam room, hot and cold plunge pools, a commercial-grade gym, Pilates studio, cinema, library, co-working spaces and private dining room. Rooftop amenities will include a swimming pool, landscaped gardens, outdoor entertaining areas and dog-friendly spaces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=143337 project_image_fid=374760]

Designed by Cottee Parker Architects with interiors by Tom Mark Henry and landscape architecture by Aspect Studios, The Tannery comprises 87 two, three and four-bedroom apartments across 11 levels overlooking the Brisbane River.

Cottee Parker principal Dee Passenger said preserving the original tannery building had been central to the project's design.

"The easy option would have been to maximise the site's development potential with additional apartments. Instead, McNab has chosen to preserve the original tannery as a shared wellness retreat, ensuring this important piece of Brisbane's history remains at the heart of the community."

Passenger said sustainability also played a key role in the design, with materials from the original industrial site salvaged and repurposed throughout the development.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=143337 project_image_fid=374761]

Motiv CEO Carly Cottam said buyers had responded strongly to the combination of larger apartments, wellness facilities and the West End lifestyle.

"We are seeing more buyers looking for homes in the sky that provide the space and functionality of a traditional home, while benefiting from the convenience and lifestyle that apartment living brings," Cottam said.

She said purchasers included both owner occupiers and investors, with demand coming from local buyers as well as interstate purchasers.

Coinciding with the public launch, McNab also announced a partnership with Queensland Ballet, whose neighbouring Thomas Dixon Centre shares historical ties with the original Dixon family.

Located on a 4,465 sqm site at 439 Montague Road, The Tannery overlooks the Brisbane River and is around 10 minutes from the CBD.

Construction is underway, with completion expected in the second half of 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=143337]

More than half of residences sold before public sales as McNab announces significant partnership with Queensland Ballet

McNab's The Tannery nears 60 per cent sold before public release, sets two-bedroom West End record

Iwan Sunito's vision for a landmark mixed-use precinct in Sydney's Inner West has taken a major step forward, with approval granted for the $1.9 billion Five Dock development first unveiled earlier this year.

The approved scheme by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/one-global-capital">One Global Capital</a> will deliver an 80,500 sqm mixed-use precinct comprising 840 apartments, integrated hotel accommodation, commercial and retail space, alongside publicly accessible open space designed to create a new destination for the growing suburb.

"This is a significant milestone for One Global Capital and for the future of housing delivery in Sydney," Sunito said.

"The Housing Delivery Authority was established to identify major housing projects capable of delivering meaningful supply more efficiently, and we are delighted that Spencer Street has been recognised as one of those projects.”

He said the declaration reflected the rapid progress achieved since acquiring control of the site.

"In less than seven months we have progressed from taking control of the site to securing entry into one of the NSW Government's most important planning pathways. It reflects the experience of our team, the strength of our consultant group led by Urbis, and our long-term commitment to delivering transformational projects that contribute to Sydney's future."

When the project was revealed earlier this year, Sunito described the opportunity as one of the strongest development sites he had worked on.

"I probably hadn't appreciated the uniqueness of the site until more recently when putting together the concept plans," Sunito said.

"The proximity to the water, and the golf course opposite, is unlike any other part of Parramatta Road. We have a unique position and view corridors over the water that makes this one of the best sites I've worked on."

The development has evolved since its initial announcement, with the approved plans increasing the residential component from the originally proposed 750 apartments to 840 homes while retaining the project's focus on creating an integrated neighbourhood rather than a standalone residential development.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/a-city-within-a-city-iwan-sunito-flags-1-5-billion-mixed-use-precinct-in-five-dock">"A city within a city": Iwan Sunito flags $1.5 billion mixed-use precinct in Five Dock</a>

The precinct will combine apartments with hotel accommodation, commercial workplaces, retail offerings and public spaces, creating a mixed-use environment intended to serve both residents and the broader Five Dock community. The proposal also continues the collaboration between One Global Capital and internationally recognised architect <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/koichi-takada-architects">Koichi Takada</a>, whose previous work with Sunito includes Infinity, Arc and Skye North Sydney.

Takada previously said the design was driven by a philosophy of integrating nature into the built environment.

"The concept for this development is born from our design approach to naturalising architecture," Takada said.

"The public realm benefits from biophilic design that integrates generous landscaping, and the development is optimised for natural daylight, airflow and water views to foster wellbeing, sustainability and spaces that foster community interaction."

Sunito has consistently described the project as a "city within a city", with a strong emphasis on creating a destination that extends beyond housing.

"We want to create a development that's not only to be seen, but to be experienced by the whole local community," he said.

The approval comes as Five Dock continues its transformation ahead of the opening of the Sydney Metro West line, with the new Five Dock station set to significantly improve connections between the Inner West, Parramatta and the Sydney CBD.&nbsp;

The precinct will also benefit from its proximity to the Parramatta Road corridor, nearby waterfront parklands and established retail and dining offerings that have made Five Dock one of Sydney's most tightly held Inner West suburbs.

Jennifer Duke

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