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Terrible real estate advertisements are the bane of many an industry member, and some vendors even think that they can do a better job.
RE/MAX AUSTRALIA’s managing director Michael Davoren notes that home owners now have a chance to make their own real estate advertisement for their property, and potentially win the competition.
The online competition ‘<a href="https://www.adformypad.com.au/" target="_blank">Make an ad to sell your pad</a>’ uses a microsite to encourage vendors to submit a video advertising their property.
“We have steered away from restricting entrants to real estate customers, sellers listing exclusively, and so forth. Entering the RE/MAX ‘Make an ad to sell your pad’ competition does not require a property listing, a property management agreement, or any commitment to any real estate office,” said Davoren.
“We’ve devised a competition that can be fun for people of all ages as they make mini home movies while creatively and imaginatively showing off where they live.”
The prize pool is $35,000, with a number of prizes on offer including travel vouchers.
Judging criteria includes:
<ol>
<li>How effectively the ad showcases the home 
</li>
<li>Performance of presenters 
</li>
<li>Camera technique 
</li>
<li>Editing 
</li>
<li>Use of music and audio 
</li>
<li>Overall appeal of the ad</li>
</ol>
We’re in the first week of submissions, although at present it appears that all the advertisements are promos and examples.
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jduke-EHk3XBmHkn

Think you can make a better ad for your property? Here’s your chance

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A Melbourne-based CBD building has been on the market for just 12 hours before being purchased for $5.4 million, or 4.29% yield, by a China-based family. This equates to $18,500 per square metre.
The property, at 355 to 357 Exhibition Street, is a three-level 880 square metre building. It includes ground floor retail and four upper level apartments. The site itself is 291 square metres and is diagonally opposite Carlton Gardens.
The property was sold fully-leased to six tenants, and includes a mix of retail and residential renters. Most are on short-term leases, and it equates to $232,000 per annum.
Savills Australia head of city sales and investments, Clinton Baxter, and Nick Peden, negotiated the sale, and said that a number of highly motivated investors were rushing to make offers.
“This is yet another example of the rush to buy Melbourne property at the moment, rush being the definitive term. The phone literally ran hot resulting in numerous potential purchasers making inspections within hours of hitting the market,” said Baxter.
“This reflects the strong demand for well located smaller freehold properties within the CBD, properties which are increasingly shrinking in number as major development takes over the central city area,” he said.
The building is placed for future highrise development and would have desirable views.
The vendor had held the building for 33 years and was a local private investor.
It appears that the tenants include Tourism Malaysia and a Thailicious.
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Just hours on the market and… sold, to an offshore family for $5.4 million

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BIS Shrapnel notes that there will be little change over 2014 for Sydney’s CBD office vacancy, having anticipated that the recovery in net absorption of office space will be slow.
The modest recovery will be underpinned by three factors:
<ol>
<li>Stronger business confidence 
</li>
<li>Robust share market performance 
</li>
<li>Economic growth picking up at state/national level</li>
</ol>
These reasons may make it more likely that companies will lease more office space, but even so it is unlikely to affect the vacancy rate, according to BIS Shrapnel’s Sydney Commercial Property Prospects 2014 to 2024.
By the end of this year, we’re expecting vacancies to have fallen by 0.3%.
Lee Walker, senior project manager and report author, said that the pick up in net absorption would provide a welcome relief for office landlords.
“[Some] market participants expect office stock withdrawals for residential conversion will see the CBD market tighten rapidly as developers look to take advantage of a strengthening residential market. However, the importance of withdrawals for residential conversion in the near term should not be over-stated,” said Walker.
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" alt="">
Not all planned conversions will occur immediately, with existing tenant leases slowing down the process.
This has BIS Shrapnel expecting that over the next three years, 110,000 square metres of office space will be permanently withdrawn from the CBD. Just 20,000 of this is expected over 2014.
“Unfortunately, anyone hoping for a quick turn around in the Sydney CBD office market is likely to be disappointed” concluded Walker.
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The three factors behind Sydney's office market recovery

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A Toorak Village retail property boasting a double height shopfront façade has sold for $1.848 million.
Fitzroys agents Michael Ryan and Charles Emmett undertook auction campaign and noted a significant amount of local and offshore interest.
“The well-attended auction saw two bidders competing, with the property ultimately sold to an offshore investor,” said Ryan.
The 462 Toorak Road property including 123 square metres of building area and is northfacing. It is zoned Commercial 1 and was offered subject to a seven year lease with a further seven year term to Higgovale Fashion Distribution, and Christensen Copenhagen.
It returns $103,415.50 per annum plus GST.
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Toorak Road's $1.848 million retail sale to offshore investor

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A freestanding office building at Braeside, in Melbourne’s south-east, has been purchased by an accounting firm for $1.165 million.
It is a 509 square metre, two-level building with glass paneled façade. At 232 Boundary Road it also includes 21 on-site carparks on a 1,113 square metre site, and is fully-fitted office accommodation.
The firm is expected to occupy the top floor.
The property was sold subject to the ground floor lease returning $45,000 per annum net.
The property was bought at an auction held by Savills Australia Notting Hill.
Selling agents Daniel Kelly and Cameron Stuckey said that it would benefit from infrastructure and amenity redevelopment nearby Moorabbin Airport.
“This was an ideal purchase for a firm which was looking for an attractive, well-located, building which could also offer both capital growth and ongoing rental returns,” Kelly said.
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Melbourne office snapped up by accountant for $1.165 million

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Warehouse conversions are increasing in popularity across Australia, offering space and character when renovated.
Property Observer picked out five, currently listed, warehouse apartments that offer something slightly different for a sharp-eyed buyer.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-collingwood-115320547%20" target="_blank">16/26 Wellington Street, Collingwood, Victoria</a>
<img src="/images/2014/06/25/collingwood-june-25-one.jpg" alt="">
This apartment, in “The Kiln” building from circa 1862, includes three bedrooms and two bathrooms, and a solid brick vaulted ceiling.
It’s an unusual offering to the market, with redgum floors and huge open spaces. It includes a library and two undercover car spaces, and there is a roof deck with views over the city.
<img src="/images/2014/06/25/collingwood%20june%2025%20two.jpg" alt="">
The three bedroom apartment had been tipped to fetch $1.35 million to $1.45 million at its<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-collingwood-115320547" target="_blank"> hockingstuart auction</a> last weekend.
It was passed in at $1.35 million.
<img src="/images/2014/06/25/collingwood%20june%2025%20three.jpg" alt="">
 
<img src="/images/2014/06/25/collingwood%20june%2025%20four.jpg" alt="">
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<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-fortitude+valley-116874863%20" target="_blank">24 Church Street, Fortitude Valley, Queensland</a>
<img src="/images/2014/06/25/fortitude%20valley%20june%2025%20two.jpg" alt="">
A “New York style” converted warehouse, this offering comes with three-bedroom plus study and three-bathrooms, and has timber floors and sky lights.
It has a private entry courtyard with “award winning gardens” that had been featured in the magazine Trends and had also appeared on Better Homes and Gardens.
<img src="/images/2014/06/25/fortitude%20valley%20june%2025%20one.jpg" alt="">
A fire place is included and the listing notes that there is the potential for a wine cellar. It also has air conditioning, an indoor aquarium, intercom security and a spa.
It sits on 223 square metres of land, with 396 square metres of building floor area. Rates are quoted at $3,222.44 per annum with a current renter in the property for $1,300 per week ending on the 19 December this year.
<img src="/images/2014/06/25/fortitude%20valley%20june%2025%20three.jpg" alt="">
<img src="/images/2014/06/25/fortitude%20valley%20june%2025%20four.jpg" alt="">
<img src="/images/2014/06/25/fortitude%20valley%20june%2025%20five.jpg" alt="">
<img src="/images/2014/06/25/fortitude%20valley%20june%2025%20six.jpg" alt="">
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<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-nsw-camperdown-117266343" target="_blank">8/2 Cardigan Lane, Camperdown, New South Wales</a>
<img src="/images/2014/06/25/camperdown%20june%2025%20one.jpg" alt="">
Looking for over $750,000, this property is in an old upholstery factory. With a north-west aspect, the two-bedroom, two-bathroom property includes high ceilings, timber floors and exposed beams.
It has intercom, and comes with $1,267 per quarter levies.
<img src="/images/2014/06/25/camperdown%20june%2025%20two.jpg" alt="">
It has been rustically styled, including the debatable dead-animal skull on the wall.
Property Observer particularly likes the bare brick walls.
<img src="/images/2014/06/25/camperdown%20june%2025%20three.jpg" alt="">
<img src="/images/2014/06/25/camperdown%20june%2025%20four.jpg" alt="">
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<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-wa-perth-113980631" target="_blank">32/82 King Street, Perth, Western Australia</a>
<img src="/images/2014/06/25/perth%20june%2025%20one.jpg" alt="">
This property takes up the entire fifth floor, and 548 square metres, of the Wills Building, which was initially used to warehouse the G&amp;R Wills Company in 1866.
The Edwardian-style building is located close to Louis Vuitton and Tiffany’s outlets, and includes wrought iron entry gates.
<img src="/images/2014/06/25/perth%20june%2025%20three.jpg" alt="">
A timber panelled elevator takes the occupant to a private lobby to enter the property, which has timber floorboards and glass/steel atriums.
It has five bedrooms, four with ensuites, and one which opens onto an atrium entertaining area.
<img src="/images/2014/06/25/perth%20june%2025%20two.jpg" alt="">
Currently it is zoned residential, although there is the potential for commercial zoning – and the listing notes that the vendors are prepared to rezone as part of the contract. This may please investors who can live in part and rent out the rest or convert the entire property.
Other tenants in the building include a law firm at present.
It last sold for $850,000 in 2003.
<img src="/images/2014/06/25/perth%20june%2025%20four.jpg" alt="">
<img src="/images/2014/06/25/perth%20june%2025%20five.jpg" alt="">
Article continues on next page. Please click below.
 
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<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-collingwood-117297435" target="_blank">10/170 Oxford Street, Collingwood, Victoria</a>
<img src="/images/2014/06/25/collingwood%20%20two%20june%2026%20one.jpg" alt="">
This apartment, asking for $950,000, is a three-bedroom two-bathroom offering that is in the Foy &amp; Gibson development and is in ‘penthouse-style’.
It includes two large terraces, a walk-in pantry, heating and cooling and life access to lobby. It has a lower-level parking space.
<img src="/images/2014/06/25/collingwood%20%20two%20june%2026%20two.jpg" alt="">
It currently rents for $3,737 per calendar month until mid-March 2015.
The contrast between the modern interior and the older exterior has helped this listing achieve a place in the top five.
<img src="/images/2014/06/25/collingwood%20%20two%20june%2026%20three.jpg" alt="">
<img src="/images/2014/06/25/collingwood%20%20two%20june%2026%20four.jpg" alt="">
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Five unusual converted warehouse apartments

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It may be nearing the end of financial year, but there are still steps you can take to maximise your tax refund, explains Mortgage Choice’s Jessica Darnbrough.
Figure out what you can claim
It’s crucial to know what it is you are and are not able to claim on your tax refund, explained Darnbrough.
“Many people have no idea that they can claim a tax deduction on petrol or home office expenses,” she said.
“You don't have to run a business from home to claim things like stationary. Rather, you just need to have a dedicated place to work at home.”
Property investors often don’t realise there are a range of expenses they can claim for. These include:
<ul>
<li>Agents' fees 
</li>
<li>Advertising 
</li>
<li>Body corporate fees 
</li>
<li>Capital expenses 
</li>
<li>Building maintenance and repairs 
</li>
<li>Cleaning 
</li>
<li>Insurances 
</li>
<li>Home loan fees 
</li>
<li>Interest payment 
</li>
<li>Council and water rates 
</li>
<li>Travel to/from a property for inspections</li>
</ul>
“One aspect that property investors often overlook when lodging their tax return is depreciation deductions. Depreciation applies to new and existing residential properties and in most cases owners of an investment property or properties are likely to be able to claim something,” Darnbrough suggests.
Consider an advisor
As everyone’s situation differs, it may be worth getting yourself a financial advisor to help determine the deductions.
Review your situation
“Part of good tax management involves making plans for the year ahead rather than facing a last minute rush,” said Darnbrough.
Mortgage Choice’s tips:
Formalising salary sacrifice super arrangements: Making salary sacrificed super contributions offers a simple way to save on tax and build wealth. It involves having part of your before-tax salary paid into your super rather than taking the money as cash in hand. 
These contributions are taxed at 15%, which is likely to be below your marginal tax rate (which could be as high as 46.5%), so more of your money goes towards growing your super rather than paying the tax man. Up to $25,000 annually can be added to super through pre-tax contributions ($35,000 if aged 60-plus). This limit includes your employer's compulsory contributions.
Examine your asset structure: It is important to review how your assets are structured on a regular basis (at least once a year) to make sure you are achieving a balance of flexibility of use and protection from creditors and excess taxes. If done effectively, asset structuring can provide tax advantages, family tax protection and the longevity of assets.
Use your tax return to your advantage: Every little bit of savings can put potential buyers closer to property ownership. Those looking to purchase property could consider contributing their tax refund into a high interest paying savings account or they could utilise the tax refund to reduce any existing debt. Having too much debt can make a difference when it comes time to apply for a home loan.
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Act now to maximise your tax refund: Mortgage Choice

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The last parcel of Crown land for the 2013/2014 financial year has been sold by the Northern Territory government at public auction, with the aim of improving housing affordability.
The sale, <a href="https://palmerston.ljhooker.com.au/1P8QF2X" target="_blank">organised by LJ Hooker at the Darwin Convention Centre</a>, included two residential lots in Moulden with multiple dwelling potential, as well as two lots in Yarrawonga with Light Industrial zoning.
The two residential lots are able to yield up to 27 dwellings together, according to Minister for Lands, Planning and the Environment, Peter Chandler.
“Interest in the light industrial sites was strong and the auction of these two lots was successful on the night,” said Chandler.
“Several parties were also bidding on the smaller of the two residential sites and this lot is also successfully under contract.”
The larger residential site failed to meet reserve, which is now up for sale “over the counter”.
This site could see up to 19 dwellings developed. It’s a 5,790 square metre offering and is across the road from Moulden Middle School.
 “The aim of these auctions is to boost investment and housing stocks. To avoid land banking, all Crown land sold at auction has a legal requirement to be developed,” he said.
“More public auctions of Crown land will happen throughout the upcoming financial year and I encourage individuals and businesses to get along and see what is on offer.”
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Northern Territory government sells Palmerston land for development

Infrastructure development the factor to watch in Sydney: Knight Frank

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Rate predictions are starting to roll in, with less than week until the Reserve Bank meets again to assess he current cash rate.
General manager markets for ME Bank, John Caelli, has been clear that they do not expect the RBA to change the rates at their July meeting next week.
“Growth remains moderate and consumer confidence has taken a hit following the Federal Budget,” said Caelli.
“The uncertainty over the Budget process will cloud the outlook for a period of time,” he said.
How long will we see stable rates for?
“The next likely rate change will be in the first half of 2015 and is likely to be up,” he predicted.
This appears to be in line with other market predictions, with some debating the timing of the next movement, however the majority agreeing that the next change will be an increase.
Here are <a href="/expert-insights/finance/industry-perspectives-on-the-rba-s-interest-rate-hold">the industry perspectives on June’s interest rate hold</a>, for instance.
YOU MAY ALSO WANT TO READ:
Interest rates crash course: <a href="/expert-insights/finance/interest-rates-crash-course-whats-the-relationship-to-the-property-market">What's the relationship to the property market?</a>
<a href="/expert-insights/finance/16-experts-predict-no-change-from-rba-tomorrow">16 experts predict “no change” from RBA tomorrow</a> (June 2014 decision)
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No July rate increase - look to next year instead: ME Bank

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

Joel Robinson

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]

La Vera closes in on completion as Macquarie Park continues residential transformation

Brisbane developer Red &amp; Co's decision to include dual key apartments in its debut Gold Coast apartment development, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/como-varsity-lakes-22-lake-street-varsity-lakes-qld-4227">COMO Varsity Lakes</a>, is proving to be one of the project's biggest drawcards, with buyers quickly snapping up the flexible residences.

More than half of the project's 36 dual key apartments have already sold, helping drive COMO beyond the 50 per cent sold mark within the first month of launch.

The strong response highlights growing demand for apartment designs that can adapt to changing lifestyles, with buyers increasingly looking for homes that accommodate multi-generational living, provide rental income opportunities or simply offer greater flexibility over time.

Located on the shores of Lake Orr, COMO will deliver 156 apartments across 16 levels, with the dual-key residences forming a limited release within the broader development.

Each combines a primary two-bedroom apartment with a fully self-contained studio on a single title, connected by a shared foyer and lockable internal door. The design allows owners to house ageing parents, adult children or guests while maintaining privacy, or lease the secondary residence to generate additional income.

Just 17 of the original 36 dual key apartments remain available.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135546 project_image_fid=367096]

The innovative configuration combines two fully self-contained residences on a single title, typically comprising a primary two-bedroom apartment alongside a separate studio residence, connected via a shared foyer and lockable internal door.&nbsp;

The model is proving particularly attractive to owner occupiers navigating changing family dynamics and the realities of the current housing crisis.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135546 project_image_fid=363511]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/npa">NPA</a>&nbsp;CEO Andrew Erwin said dual key living was resonating strongly with modern buyers because it delivered both financial flexibility and practical lifestyle benefits.&nbsp;

“The housing crisis and rising cost of living are fundamentally changing how Australians think about home ownership,” Erwin said.&nbsp;

“Dual key apartments provide a genuine solution for families who want to stay connected while maintaining independence. Parents can help adult children save for a future home, ageing parents can remain nearby without moving into aged care, and owners still retain privacy and flexibility.

“Importantly, buyers are also recognising the financial advantages. It creates the opportunity to generate additional income from part of the home without the holding costs associated with owning a separate investment property.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135546 project_image_fid=363509]

Unlike traditional dual occupancy arrangements, the residences operate under a single title, meaning owners only incur one set of body corporate fees, council rates and holding costs.&nbsp;

The secondary residence can also evolve over time - functioning as guest accommodation, a home office, creative studio or private retreat before later becoming an income-producing asset.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/red-co">Red &amp; Co</a>&nbsp;Director and Co-Founder David Laverty said the strong early sales reflected growing buyer urgency and changing priorities within the market.&nbsp;

“Securing more than half of COMO’s residences within such a short timeframe is an outstanding result and a clear endorsement of both the design and location,” Laverty said.&nbsp;

“Buyers are responding to the combination of location, connectivity and amenity, but ultimately it’s value relative to other East Coast markets that is driving enquiry.”&nbsp;

“We’re also seeing strong interest from owner occupiers looking for homes that can adapt with them over time. Flexibility has become one of the most important considerations for buyers in today’s market.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135546 project_image_fid=363515]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bda-architecture">BDA Architecture</a>, COMO features a mix of one-, two- and three-bedroom residences with 2.7-metre ceilings and larger-format floorplans aimed at owner occupiers, downsizers and lifestyle-focused buyers.&nbsp;

The development will feature an extensive rooftop recreation and wellness offering including a 25-metre lap pool, sundeck, barbecue and dining areas, gym, sauna, plunge baths, landscaped gardens, wellness spaces and rooftop pickleball and paddleball courts.

The remaining dual key apartments range from 137 sqm to 167 sqm and include generous three-bedroom layouts with separate self-contained studio accommodation and dual parking.&nbsp;

Erwin said the dual key concept represented a broader shift in how Australians would live in the future.

“People want homes that can evolve with their lives,” he said.&nbsp;

“A dual key apartment can suit a family today, support an ageing parent tomorrow, and potentially generate income later on. That adaptability is becoming incredibly valuable in the current environment.”

Prices currently range from $2,115,750 to $2,583,000.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135546]

Inter-generational living drives demand for COMO’s dual key apartments as housing pressures reshape buyer priorities 

Builder-developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/ceerose">Ceerose</a> has doubled down on its Leichhardt ambitions, lodging its second State Significant Development Application (SSDA) in the suburb in the last six months.

Their newest proposal seeks to transform a former industrial precinct into a new residential community centred around the adaptive reuse of one of the site's heritage warehouse buildings.

The new project, on a 6,930 sqm block at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/40-76-william-street-leichhardt-nsw-2040">40–76 William Street</a>, will bring more than 200 apartments to a suburb that has seen little to no new supply in recent years. It follows Ceerose's late 2025 SSDA for a mixed-use apartment project on nearby Parramatta Road, signalling the developer's growing investment in Sydney's Inner West.

Ceerose Founder Edward Doueihi told Apartments.com.au the developer’s long-standing presence in Leichhardt and the Inner West had given it a strong understanding of how the area has evolved and where its future opportunities lie.

“Ceerose has had a long-standing presence in Leichhardt and the Inner West, giving us a unique understanding of the area’s evolution and future potential,” Doueihi said.

“Having delivered projects throughout the region, we have witnessed the suburb’s transformation first-hand and understand the opportunities for its continued growth.”

Doueihi said that understanding also informed the planning process, with a comprehensive Stakeholder Engagement Outcomes Report prepared before the application was lodged.

The report identified the key issues and concerns raised by neighbouring residents and other stakeholders, allowing those matters to be considered and incorporated into the design where appropriate.

He said the delivery of additional housing would also play an important role in supporting the revitalisation of Norton Street and the Italian Forum.

“By increasing the local residential population, the development is expected to strengthen demand for local businesses, encourage further investment, and help restore the vibrancy that made the precinct a thriving destination in the early 2000s.”

<img alt="First look: Ceerose returns to Leichhardt with 203-apartment adaptive reuse proposal at former warehouse site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7258c54c-8167-479e-8361-2d5fca9915b4" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Appendix%2010B%20-%20CGI%20-%20View%202.jpg?VersionId=S9DQfxu_jpcB5LrAEYFUbyMzg5odW6i5" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a>, the redevelopment would involve the demolition of four existing industrial buildings while retaining and adaptively reusing the site's most significant warehouse. The retained structure would anchor a new residential precinct comprising five interconnected buildings arranged around a large central landscaped courtyard, with heights stepping from five storeys along the surrounding residential streets to 11 storeys at the William Street corner.

According to the Architecture Design Report by Woods Bagot, the proposal "seeks to create a residential village centred around a generous green heart while celebrating the site's industrial heritage through the adaptive reuse of the existing warehouse building."

The development would comprise 203 apartments, with 188 proposed as build-to-sell residences, alongside 15 affordable housing apartments.

Rather than treating the retained warehouse as a standalone heritage object, Woods Bagot has sought to weave the site's industrial history throughout the masterplan. The proposal retains the north and west facades of the landmark corner warehouse, while new buildings reinterpret the site's brick-and-steel industrial language through their material palette and architectural expression.

<img alt="First look: Ceerose returns to Leichhardt with 203-apartment adaptive reuse proposal at former warehouse site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9e8c64c2-881b-49e1-8c90-6b6acaaa45b6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Appendix%2010C%20-%20CGI%20-%20View%203.jpg?VersionId=Qm8_8H_Xrg_sc4Mdjc59vlAcKF_5wRTb" />

The design is organised around what Woods Bagot describes as a "green heart", a landscaped communal open space that reinstates the leafy character removed when the site became an industrial storage facility. A new pedestrian laneway running through the site would improve permeability between William, North and Francis streets, linking residents through landscaped public spaces while activating the ground plane.

Residents would have access to communal gardens and shared recreation areas distributed throughout the development. Sustainability has also been prioritised, with the project targeting an average 7.9-star NatHERS rating. Proposed initiatives include rooftop solar generation, rainwater harvesting, passive solar design, naturally ventilated lobbies, extensive cross-ventilation and the reuse of existing building fabric to reduce embodied carbon.

The adaptive reuse strategy became a defining feature of the application after heritage investigations found only one of the site's industrial buildings could feasibly be retained. The Heritage Impact Statement concludes that preserving the key warehouse façades while referencing the site's industrial character throughout the new development provides an appropriate balance between renewal and conservation.

<img alt="First look: Ceerose returns to Leichhardt with 203-apartment adaptive reuse proposal at former warehouse site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="efffafdb-594f-4e2b-a067-921fd51c05e1" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Appendix%2010D%20-%20CGI%20-%20View%204.jpg?VersionId=DPmE4.k16YRt0i27hEZVtJAffarpvUfx" />

"Retention and adaptation of the site buildings has been explored but found not to be feasible except for the tallest building, whose street facades will be retained," the heritage report states.

"The proposed building will interpret the brick and steel character of the subject site, including reuse of some components and construction of a large 'sawtooth' structure in the proposed open space."

<img alt="First look: Ceerose returns to Leichhardt with 203-apartment adaptive reuse proposal at former warehouse site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3bfef2b5-83f5-40cd-9cab-767092f34266" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Appendix%2010E%20-%20CGI%20-%20View%205.jpg?VersionId=7asb3i_ql4ybbuJOUb5UHBEIy0Q9t.DF" />

The William Street site is located around 300 metres from Leichhardt North Light Rail station and a short walk to Norton Street's retail, dining and hospitality precinct. The surrounding area has increasingly become a focus for urban renewal given its proximity to public transport and the Parramatta Road corridor.

Doueihi founded Ceerose in 1998 and has grown the business to become one of Sydney's more active apartment developers in recent years, with completed projects including The Alex Collective in Alexandria, Abbie's Lane in Annandale, and the award-winning Munro House in Elizabeth Bay. They are currently delivering Belgravia, 17 luxury apartments in Potts Point.

Jennifer Duke

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