<html><body>
Developer Longton will choose between Watpac, Built and Icon to build their $300 million Mascot apartment project, Avantra.
The project has been delayed after Botany Council aired concerns over the development's proposed apartment sizes. The development has undergone several changes, including additional floors at the northern tower and increased parking.
Construction is now expected to begin in June with a completion date in 2017.
<a href="https://longton.com.au/" target="_blank">Avantra</a> was first launched in mid-2013, before development approval was obtained. When Botany Council required Longton to address issues around the design of the Avantra project, more than half of its 328 apartments had already sold.
<img src="/images/2015/03/18/avantra%20mar%2018%20one.jpg" alt="">
Longton are putting a positive spin on the construction delays, with a media release stating that "the delay in construction has not dampened the enthusiasm of the early purchasers who have benefited financially as apartment prices in Mascot have risen by around 20% over the past 18 months".
The three builders are currently in stage two of the tendering process, and Longton intends to choose a builder by late next month.
The project was "re-configured" by MD+A Architects, while Archer + Wright redesigned communal areas to increase privacy for residents.
The development, on a 8,762 square metre site near Mascot train station, will comprise two towers – the 12 storey northern tower and the 13 storey southern tower – linked by suspended walkways. Each tower will have communal rootop gardens, with the an infinity swimming pool topping the northern tower.
Longton project developer John Green says the company sought tenders from five builders due to Mascot's "never-before-seen features". The development will include open-air walkways with glass rooftops, mimicking streets. Atria which span the full height of the development are intended to circulate cool air to the apartments and provide natural light. There apartment complex will also come with its own social media network, branded as iCommunity.
Following delays, the sales campaign for the apartments has not yet relaunched, but Belong Realty intend to resume marketing shortly.
</body></html>

jrichardson-uRX5hFdKfN

Search for builder continues at Mascot, Sydney's Avantra after delays

<html><body>
St Joseph's Refuge in Adelaide's Fullarton is up for sale.
The handcrafted sandstone building, on a 4,350 square metre plot, is over 100 years old, constructed circa 1900.
Currently used as a Christian church, the two storey building has around 20 separate rooms for meetings, offices or event spaces, plus bathrooms and kitchen areas, one approaching commercial size. The church congregation owns the estate.
Marketing agents Peter McMillan and Eloise McMillan of Toop &amp; Toop Hyde Park note in the property's listing that the property could be used for student or aged care accommodation, or as an educational, healthcare or religious institution, or as a particularly large family home.
They are accepting expressions of interest for the property at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-sa-fullarton-119235755" target="_blank">82 Wattle Street in Fullarton</a> until 8 April.
The building was established as two 30 bed dormitories with a large hall and community room, with construction beginning in late 1900. Architect E J Woods designed the premises on the plot, which previously held a jam factory. Lady Tennyson opened the facility in September of 1901.
According to a 1900 issue of Adelaide's <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://trove.nla.gov.au/ndp/del/article/36979270" target="_blank">The Advertiser</a>, the Catholic refuge was originally intended to shelter young expectant mothers or recent mothers who were unmarried, no matter their religion or denomination.
The <a href="https://www.samemory.sa.gov.au/site/page.cfm?u=1461&amp;c=1554" target="_blank">Adelaide Observer </a>in 1901 noted, however, that the Sisters of St Joseph's refuge also provided accommodation and care for women with criminal backgrounds and new migrants. The organisation, founded by Mother Mary MacKillop in 1963, was funded by a combination of public donations, church collections and earnings from the women themselves, some of whom worked in the laundry.
The refuge moved into the Fullarton premises after becoming too large for their previous Norwood premises. The Fullarton refuge provided room for "80 inmates and 30 babies", as well as the 10 or so sisters, according to the Adelaide Observer.
In 1963, the Daughters of Charity took over the institution, and it later became known as Louise Place.
</body></html>

Fullarton, Adelaide's St Joseph's Refuge on the market

<html><body>
Melbourne's appetite for inner city apartments will soon be outpaced by their supply, according to economic researchers BIS Shrapnel.
At their Melbourne business forecasting conference yesterday, BIS Shrapnel's managing director Robert Mellor and associate director of building forecasting, Kim Hawtrey, both warned of impending oversupply in the Melbourne multi-residential market.
According to BIS Shrapnel's forecast, by June 2016 there will be a surplus of 14,300 multi-residential dwellings in Victoria, with the majority in Melbourne.
<img src="/images/2015/03/18/bis-march-18-one.jpg" alt="">
"Now is certainly the time to start sounding the alarm," said Hawtrey.
"If we keep on going at this rate, maybe not a year from now, maybe two years from now, the market is going to start to feel it."
The effects of the mismatched demand and supply will be seen in prices, said Mellor.
"If construction doesn't begin to ease back significantly in the next 12 to 18 months, then that will exaggerate the oversupply," explained Mellor.
He predicts either a "long, long downturn" where prices are depressed for a period of up to seven years, or a "very significant correction in price".
A recent BIS Shrapnel report on the inner-Melbourne apartment market noted that an annual average of 6,212 apartments are set to be delivered between 2012/13 and 2016/17, which is more than double the long term average of 2,563 apartments a year in the 16 years to 2011/12.
<img src="/images/2015/03/18/Picture%2020.png" alt="">
"Furthermore, there are already approximately 2,000 apartments in projects currently under construction that are scheduled to be completed in 2017/18", writes BIS Shrapnel.
<img src="/images/2015/03/18/Picture%2021.png" alt="">
Hawtrey warned yesterday that it wasn't just the inner-city that would be affected by an apartment market correction, but middle-ring suburbs, with tenants leaving for cheaper rents close to the CBD.
He noted that construction of high density dwellings in Melbourne is beginning to spread throughout the suburbs, with upticks in development in suburbs like Brunswick, Armadale and Doncaster.
<img src="/images/2015/03/18/bis-march-18-two.jpg" alt="">
While Hawtrey believes that the shift to apartment living will be permanent, predicting that multi-residential dwellings will one day makeup more than half of national dwelling commencements, in the short term, "we're overdoing it".
"Get ready for, two years from now, for that market to have a correction," warned Hawtrey.
"For me, if I was buying property now, I'd buy a detached house, rather than an apartment."
While former Victorian Planning Minister Matthew Guy approved many of the larger residential towers set for the Melbourne CBD, including the record-breaking <a href="/expert-insights/buying/sky-high-australia-108-launches-with-300-buyers-reportedly-already-in-the-bag">Australia 108</a>, Hawtrey said it is yet to be seen whether new Planning Minister Richard Wynne will continue the trend for high-density apartments.
{mijopolls 96}
</body></html>

Price correction looming in wake of Melbourne apartment boom: BIS Shrapnel

<html><body>
The Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA) has awarded the first 6 Star Green Star – Communities rating to a residential masterplanned development at Alkimos Beach, north of Perth.
The first stage of the development, to be delivered by Lend Lease and LandCorp, will comprise 2,000 homes over 240 hectares. Upon completion, the master-planned development will cover 710 hectares.
LandCorp chief executive Frank Marra said the company intends to develop Western Australian residences sustainably.
"We encourage innovation and are delighted that our Alkimos Beach project has been recognised by the nation's authority on sustainable buildings and communities and acknowledged as a world leading development with global significance," said Marra.
The <a href="https://www.alkimosbeach.com.au/" target="_blank">Alkimos Beach development</a> was assessed by GBCA according to innovation, design, environmental sustainability, economic and liveability criteria. The result was announced at the Green Cities conference 2015.
Upon completion, the project will have six hectares of conservation reserves and 41 hectares of dune and foreshore reserves. According to LendLease, houses will be at most 800 metres from the local centre and transport links and 200 metres from a park space.
The masterplanned development will also include WiFi in public spaces.
While Lend Lease has been recognised for sustainability measures in its developments previously, these have largely been in single buildings and fitouts, said GBCA chief executive Romilly Madew.
"This 6 Star Green Star rating for a community project sets the bar for world leadership community development and demonstrates a long-term commitment to sustainability at scale," Madew said.
"We applaud the range of initiatives – from education campaigns to financial incentives to technology – that will help the residents of Alkimos Beach embrace more sustainable living."
"The importance of this rating cannot be understated. Lend Lease, LandCorp and the people of Alkimos Beach now have independent proof that this community will deliver economic, social and environmental sustainability. And the industry has proof that 'world leadership' benchmarks in community development are achievable."
</body></html>

Alkimos Beach gets tick from Green Building Council

<html><body>
Vacancy rates across Australia were down last month with Melbourne and Canberra's markets tightening the most, according to SQM Research. Meanwhile, vacancy rates continue to escalate in Darwin and Perth.
The national vacancy rate was down to 2.2% with 66,094 vacancies, from 2.3%, with 69,847 vacancies recorded in January.
Click to open in new window:
<a href="/images/2015/03/17/sqm-mar-17-one.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2015/03/17/sqm-mar-17-one.jpg" alt=""></a>
Source: SQM Research
SQM Research attributes Melbourne's vacancy rate drop of 0.5 percentage points between January and February to workers and tertiary students commencing the year after summer holidays. The research house recorded a 2.3% vacancy rate, down from 2.8% in the previous month. At the same time last year, Melbourne's vacancy rate was at 2.4%.
The same post-holiday influx of student and workers was credited with Canberra's vacancy rate downturn, with the rate dropping from 2.0% in January to 1.6% in February. Canberra has recorded the biggest decline in its vacancy rate over the past 12 months of any capital city, with the rate at 2.1% in February 2014.
In Perth and Darwin, SQM Research managing director Louis Christopher predicts that vacancies are likely to continue to climb throughout the year. While Darwin's vacancy rate was down slightly for the month, from 3.3% to 3.2%, in February of last year it was at just 1.3%. Likewise, in Perth the vacancy rate has remained stable at 2.6% over the past two months, but is up from February 2014's 1.9% result.
However, Christopher does not think escalating vacancy rates are necessarily quarantined to Perth and Darwin.
"Ongoing weakness in commodity prices will filter through to the jobs and property markets in Perth and Darwin," says Christopher.
"Nationally, a continuation in below-trend economic activity will likely push the unemployment rate up towards 7%, which will ultimately work to keep a lid on vacancy rates and rents in other capital cities, though Sydney rents may prove more resilient, having grown at close to 8% for housing over the year to March 10, given the city's tight vacancy rate."
Of all the capital cities, Hobart has the tightest rental market, with a 1.3% vacancy rate and just 358 vacant properties in February.
</body></html>

National rental market tightens over February: SQM Research

<html><body>
The award winning Haddow House sold for $3,571,000 at auction last weekend, a rare feat for Fitzroy North.
Nelson Alexander sales agent Arch Staver, who marketed the property with Rick Daniel, says the sale "really did test the market".
"North Fitzroy is not full of warehouse conversions," Staver told Property Observer, noting that renovated industrial sites are more common in the neighbouring Fitzroy, or the inner-eastern suburb of Richmond.
"It really was a stand out property".
The six bedroom home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-fitzroy+north-119046907" target="_blank">11 Tucker Place in Fitzroy North</a> certainly does stand out, even among its fellow warehouse conversions.
The vendors commissioned Belgian architect Daniel van Cleemput to design the renovation of the home for their blended family. On the 545 square metre former factory site, van Cleemput designed the cleverly structured house, surrounded by gardens. Its design saw the home awarded the ARCHITEAM 2012 award for Best Design, Residential, New, and featured in architect and commentator Stuart Harrison's 2013 book New Suburban.
When van Cleemput was commissioned, the warehouse had no roof, just external walls.
{qtube vid:=hXPu9VE_2Tg}
The house, while offering flow between both the interior living spaces and between the interior and exterior, also provided privacy for its residences.
The home's enclosed bedroom spaces are all on the upper level, with the teenagers and the two adults living in separate parts of the building, connected by an outside deck. The parent's retreat includes a hydraulic-doored "pod" with a kitchenette, wardrobe and study, and opens directly to the hilltop garden. Meanwhile, the children's area has five double bedrooms, each with a view to the gardens, two shower rooms and a separate toilet.
On the lower level, there are open plan living, dining and kitchen areas, with full height sliding doors opening the interior to the surrounding gardens. The exterior is further invited in through translucent walls, which draw in the natural light. The outdoor spaces include a landscaped garden "hillside", a spa and deck and plant covered high walls.
Despite the house's connection with nature, it still retains many industrial features, including raw finishes and a structure exposed by its translucent panelling.
At Saturday's auction, there were around 200 observers, with three active bidders. Bidding for the warehouse conversion off a cobbled laneway began at $3 million with a bid from the eventual buyer, and came onto the market at $3.4 million. The $3,571,000 result makes it the most expensive known sale of a warehouse conversion in Fitzroy North, with the second highest known to Property Observer being a brick double fronted single level home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-fitzroy+north-114997019" target="_blank">7 Tranmere Street</a>, which sold for $1,105,000 in October 2013.
According to CoreLogic RP Data, <a href="/news">Fitzroy North</a> houses recorded 10.3% capital growth over 2014, with a median house price of $1.5 million in January 2015.
</body></html>

Fitzroy North's Haddow House warehouse conversion sells for more than $3.5 million

<html><body>
While the majority of variable home loans available have dropped their interest rates following February's rate cut, 40% of variable loan rates stay on hold, according to comparison website Finder.
Of the 1,358 variable loans monitored by Finder, 815, or 60%, have had their interest rates cut since the Reserve Bank dropped the official cash rate on 3 February by 25 basis points. The cash rate now sits at a record low of 2.25%.
Some lenders are still continuing to pass along the Reserve Bank's cut, with Finder noting that interest rates were cut on 20 variable rate loan products in the past week.
Lenders who dropped variable rates in the last week include Commonwealth Bank, RAMS, Western Credit Union and Catalyst mutual, according to Finder.
Finder's Michelle Hutchison says borrowers should be proactive about keeping track of their home loans.
"While it's not surprising to see some lenders being slow to pass on the cash rate cut to their variable home loan customers, it's disappointing that some are taking advantage of the situation," she says.
"Many borrowers aren't aware of what interest rate they are being charged and may not realise that their lender hasn't passed on the rate cut."
She urges borrowers to compare available rates on the market and to consider asking their lender for a discount if they have failed to pass along the Reserve Bank's rate cut.
</body></html>

40% of variable home loans yet to pass on February rate cut: Finder

<html><body>
An Armadale house designed by late Melbourne architect Wayne Gillespie has sold.
The three bedroom home secured $3.55 million when sold through RT Edgar Boroondara last week.
Atypically, <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-armadale-118788407" target="_blank">7A Flete Avenue</a> has an in-ground pool located at the front of the plot, rather than the back - residents pass the north-facing pool and the sandstone terrace as they enter the house through the side.
The house has open plan living and dining areas on its lower levels, with a conservatory area at the rear. On the upper level, there are three bedrooms, including a master with a north-facing balcony overlooking the pool.
At $3.55 million, the house was the eighth most expensive to sell last week, according to CoreLogic RP Data.
The most expensive was a $6.5 million Rose Bay house at 22 Kent Road, which sold after 25 years of ownership.
CoreLogic RP Data's top 10 sales of the week ending 15 March:
<ol>
<li>22 Kent Road, Rose Bay, NSW 5 bed, 3 bath, 2 car house $6,500,000 McGrath Estate Agents 
</li>
<li>26 Strickland Street, Rose Bay, NSW 5 bed, 5 bath, 5 car house $5,200,000 Sydney Sotheby's International Realty 
</li>
<li>28 Rowland Street, Kew, Vic 4 bed, 2 bath, 1 car house $3,840,000 Marshall White Real Estate Hawthorn 
</li>
<li>58 Narrak Road, Balwyn, Vic 5 bed, 4 bath, 2 car house $3,800,000 RT Edgar Boroondara 
</li>
<li>13 Palmer Street, South Coogee, NSW 4 bed, 2 bath, 2 car house $3,700,000 Ellison Zulian Property Maroubra 
</li>
<li>433 Bronte Road, Bronte, NSW 4 bed, 2 bath, 2 car house $3,650,000 McGrath Estate Agents 
</li>
<li>78 Carrington Parade, Curl Curl, NSW 4 bed, 3 bath, 4 car house $3,600,000 Smyth Estate Agents Freshwater 
</li>
<li>7 Flete Avenue, Armadale, Vic 3 bed, 2 bath, 2 car house $3,550,000 RT Edgar Boroondara 
</li>
<li>175 Raglan Street, Mosman, NSW 3 bed, 3 bath, 2 car house $3,320,000 Ray White Lower North Shore 
</li>
<li>2/43 Tobruk Avenue, Cremorne, NSW 4 bed, 2 bath, 2 car unit $3,275,000 Belle Property Neutral Bay</li>
</ol>
</body></html>

Wayne Gillespie designed Armadale home sells for $3.55 million

<html><body>
Two homes, just a kilometre apart, in Aireys Inlet are among this year's Easter auction offerings.
The double storey home with ocean views in Fairhaven will be auctioned on Sunday 5 April.
Set on a 920 square metre parcel, the home perched atop a cliff has views of a 6 kilometre stretch of Fairhaven beach. The three bedroom house, renovated in 2010, has direct beach access. Natural materials feature prominently, with timber cladding, columns and ceilings.
Agents Marty Maher and Mim Atkinson of Great Ocean Properties Aireys Inlet are expecting $2.75 million to $3 million for <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/26-lialeeta-road-fairhaven/Property-Details-buy-residential-8401114" target="_blank">26 Lialeeta Road</a> (pictured above).
Nearby <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/8-river-reserve-road-aireys-inlet/Property-Details-buy-residential-8145724" target="_blank">8 River Reserve Road in Aireys Inlet</a> (pictured below) will be auctioned the day before by the same agents, on 4 Saturday April.
<img src="/images/2015/03/16/aireys%20inlety%20march%2016%20one.jpg" alt="">
The distinctive house is marked by a glass atrium at the entrance, which holds a spiral staircase leading up to the upper level and the rooftop terrace. The four bedroom, four bathroom house includes a gas open fire and views over the river valley.
It comes with $950,000 to $1 million price expectations.
Victoria's coastal Easter long weekend auctions aren't restricted to Aireys Inlet. <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/148-150-back-beach-road-portsea/Property-Details-buy-residential-8445140" target="_blank">148-150 Back Beach Road in Portsea</a> (pictured below), a five bedroom home, will be auctioned on Sunday 5 March.
<img src="/images/2015/03/16/portsea%20%20march%2016%20one.jpg" alt="">
Known as Lido, the two storey house and its gardens span two titles at 1,500 square metres, with views over Port Philip Bay. The house with a pool is mareted by Kay and Burton agents Liz Jensen and Linda Boulter.
Jensen is also marketing <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/4-benjamin-parade-blairgowrie/Property-Details-buy-residential-8444826" target="_blank">4 Benjamin Parade in Blaigowrie</a>, which is to be auctioned an hour later, with David Heathcote.
While some vendors have chosen to take their homes to auction on the traditionally quiet Easter weekend, it seems the bulk of Victoria's coastal auctions will occur the weekend after. The second weekend of April will see Sorrento's <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/3492-point-nepean-road-sorrento/Property-Details-buy-residential-8481806" target="_blank">3492 Point Nepean Road</a> (pictured below) go under the hammer through Max Prentice of Prentice Real Estate in conjunction with Hodges' Andrew Boyce.
<img src="/images/2015/03/16/sorrento%20mar%2016%20two.jpg" alt="">
The two cliffside allotments will be offered through executor's auction. Lot 2, which is accessed through Netley Avenue, is 1,592 square metres. Lot 3 is 2,789 square metres, and accessible from Point Nepean Road.
</body></html>

Two Aireys Inlet homes among coastal Victorian Easter auctions

<html><body>
A four lot, 2,800 square metre facility has been sold by the Salvation Army.
The former youth leadership facility is located on a waterfront block in New South Wales' Lake Munmorah. The Salvation Army had owned the 1960s era building, originally called Kiwi Ranch, for almost 20 years.
Four main buildings built over four lots at 38-44 Greenacre Avenue in Lake Munmorah included office space, a separate cottage, assembly halls and a commercial kitchen, with accommodation.
It was marketed by Ray White Thompson Partners selling principal Luke Thompson, who said the property was "one of the most iconic properties on the very best block of land". It includes a jetty and abuts a private reserve.
The facility first went to auction in July 2014 but failed to sell. The property found a buyer last month, after a 10 month campaign.
During its sale campaign Thompson said he expected interest from developers but also other organisations and institutions who may wish to renovate the facilities.
No sale price has yet emerged.
 
</body></html>

Salvation Army sell four lot Lake Munmorah facility

Repeat buyers are one of the strongest measures of confidence in any apartment development.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/era-newcastle-west-124-126-bull-street-newcastle-west-nsw-2302">ERA</a> in Newcastle West, some purchasers are returning to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gwh">GWH</a> after living at the developer's One Apartments. Their decision to purchase again was driven by the quality of life they found after moving into their first GWH home.

Keith Wilton had spent years living in a house in East Maitland before deciding it was time for a change. Apartment living had always been on his radar, but he was selective about what he wanted.

<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/FH_1EzB-1vs?si=XScVlP1ERsTDJoME" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

"I had some boxes I wanted to tick," he says.

Keith points to the open-plan design, generous outdoor areas and considered inclusions as key reasons One Apartments worked for him.

“One of those things was a nice indoor open plan area, but also I wanted a nice outdoor open area that I could entertain on in summer or Christmases or birthdays,” he says.

He also found value in the smaller details, from integrated appliances to shared resident spaces including the pool, cinema and rooftop areas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356818]

After comparing several developments, he chose One Apartments because of GWH's longstanding local reputation and his own experience working with the developer on a commercial project more than a decade earlier.

"I knew that they were local, that the quality of the build was going to be up there. I'd looked at other apartment complexes around and close by, and I just knew that here was a better decision location wise."

Today, Keith says the move has completely changed how he experiences Newcastle.

"I enjoy living in this location because it's more of a lifestyle change. That Newcastle city living where you can walk to restaurants and bars and even beaches and parks and even shopping across the road."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356828]

Beyond the location, he says it's the sense of community that has surprised him most.

"Everyone loves living here because they chose to live here, but everyone looks out for each other. It's a real great community feel here."

For Aimee and Lyle Goodman, the journey started almost by chance.

<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/tsioMLcnjas?si=zq-ys3JuWpfa5hFv" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

The couple happened to be having coffee in Newcastle when they noticed the site where One Apartments was about to begin construction.

"We were aware GWH was planning a development," Aimee says. "We made one phone call and things moved pretty quickly after that."

As busy business owners, they initially thought apartment living would simply reduce the maintenance that came with larger homes. Instead, it fundamentally changed how they spent time together.

"We actually catch up more as a family now," Aimee says.

"We've had homes with big yards and lots of space, but everyone ended up in different rooms. Here we'll have dinner together, the kids can play, and we spend far more quality time together."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356829]

Lyle says their confidence came from GWH's reputation within Newcastle's building industry.

"I know people who've worked across different apartment projects, and whenever GWH came up the feedback was always the same. They're rock solid. They're quality."

That confidence only grew throughout the buying process.

"One of the things that really impressed us with GWH was the whole process, was the communication," Lyle says. "It was consistent, it was regular, there was no problem if we had some weird questions, there was no problems in getting answers."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351104]

Aimee says one moment stood out.

"The project actually finished on time. We realised we needed to hurry up and sell our house because everything was happening exactly when they said it would."

The positive experience at One Apartments ultimately gave all three buyers the confidence to purchase again with GWH, this time at ERA.

Their confidence reflects what many buyers are seeking in today's apartment market. Location remains important, but so too does certainty around delivery, quality and long-term liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356822]

ERA builds on those foundations with 280 one, two and three-bedroom apartments across two landmark towers in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/newcastle-west-nsw-2302">Newcastle West</a>.&nbsp;

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fk-australia">Fender Katsalidis</a>, the project will include more than 2,000 square metres of resident amenities, including a resort-style pool, gym, sauna, private cinema and rooftop entertaining spaces overlooking the harbour and coastline.&nbsp;

The development is also within walking distance of the Newcastle Interchange, Honeysuckle, Darby Street, the harbour foreshore, restaurants, retail and the city’s beaches, continuing the walkable lifestyle that existing GWH buyers say has transformed how they live.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356826]

For Keith, the appeal remains straightforward.

"You feel at home even before you've moved into your home."

For Aimee, the change is measured in time.

“I just felt like I had more time,” she says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351102]

Construction at ERA is now underway, with more than half of the residences already sold and limited two and three-bedroom apartments remaining in the East Tower release. Priced from $980,000 for two-bedroom residences and $1.46 million for three-bedroom residences, buyers can secure an apartment with a 10 per cent deposit, with premium homes offering ocean views from Level 8 and harbour views from Level 10.

ERA is also backed by Resilience Insurance's 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy, providing protection against structural or waterproofing defects for 10 years after completion. The project is anticipated to be completed in early 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135096]

Joel Robinson

From ONE to ERA: Why buyers are choosing GWH again in Newcastle West

Virgate Property Group is preparing to commence construction of Verdé, its new apartment development in Melbourne's Arts Precinct at Southbank, following a strong run of sales that has seen more than half of the project's 173 apartments secured.

Verdé has attracted a broad mix of first home buyers, owner-occupiers upgrading from nearby inner-city suburbs and investors, with younger owner-occupier couples aged between 28 and 45 accounting for the strongest enquiry. Many are already living in Southbank, South Melbourne, Albert Park, Port Melbourne, South Yarra and the CBD.

"Verdé is located in one of the most desirable pockets of southern Melbourne," Blair Property Group Director Darren Blair, who is managing sales at Verdé, said.

"It's within walking distance of the Arts Centre, Royal Botanic Gardens, Albert Park Lake, and Southbank's restaurants and retail. It's a great lifestyle location with strong amenity and liveability, which made it a very attractive choice for the project."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=372549]

Virgate was already familiar with the precinct, having previously delivered the successful Domain House development in neighbouring South Melbourne. That experience gave the developer confidence to acquire the Coventry Street site and continue expanding its presence in Melbourne's inner south.

"We had been keeping an eye on the site and the broader precinct for a few months before deciding to move forward with the acquisition," Virgate said.

The project was ultimately secured in 2020 following feasibility studies, planning assessments and due diligence, with the brief centred on delivering "a high-quality, considered design that feels both refined and fit for purpose."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=314259]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bruce-henderson-architects">Bruce Henderson Architects</a>, Verdé comprises 173 one, two and three-bedroom apartments priced from $599,000. The architecture is distinguished by a faceted glass façade that responds to both the site's outlook and Melbourne's changing light conditions.

According to Bruce Henderson Architects, the coloured glazing gives the building a distinctive identity while also providing privacy and solar shading, with residences oriented to capture views across the bay, city skyline and surrounding parklands.

Inside, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/designoffice">DesignOffice</a> has created interiors focused on natural light, efficient planning and enduring materials. Apartments feature engineered oak flooring, natural stone benchtops, floor-to-ceiling glazing and SMEG appliances, while a restrained material palette aims to complement the expansive outlooks rather than compete with them.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=372550]

Resident amenity has also been designed around everyday functionality rather than occasional use. Facilities include a concierge-serviced lobby, residents' lounge with fireplace, library and co-working space, gym, terrace garden with barbecue facilities, ground-floor café, and package delivery management.

The project's location continues to be one of its strongest drawcards. Positioned on Coventry Street, Verdé sits within walking distance of the National Gallery of Victoria, Arts Centre Melbourne, Royal Botanic Gardens and Albert Park Lake, while Southbank's dining precinct, Sturt Street trams and the new ANZAC Station are all nearby. The surrounding education catchment also includes Melbourne Grammar, Melbourne Girls Grammar, Mac.Robertson Girls' High School and several major university campuses.

The sales team says buyers have responded particularly well to the combination of location, design quality and long-term liveability.

"They're responding really positively to the quality of the design, premium resident amenities and the uninterrupted views. Many also appreciate the location and how connected it is to everything they need."

The ability to secure stamp duty savings before completion has also been a key factor for purchasers, alongside the opportunity to personalise finishes ahead of settlement.

With construction set to commence soon and more than half the apartments already sold, Verdé enters its next phase as one of the Arts Precinct's more established apartment developments, offering remaining buyers an opportunity to secure a residence before construction advances further. Expected completion is scheduled for late 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=4661]

Virgate's Verdé Southbank moves toward construction as sales fly past halfway stage

Downsizer-focused apartment development Kooyongkoot in Hawthorn has been recognised at the 2026 Better Future Melbourne Design Awards, taking home Gold and Silver awards in two categories.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kooyongkoot-hawthorn-1-kooyongkoot-road-hawthorn-vic-3122">Kooyongkoot</a>, currently being delivered by developer PQD and designed by Cera Stribley, received Gold in the Interior Design – Proposed category and Silver in the Architecture – Proposed category.

The dual recognition reflects the design approach behind the boutique development on prestigious Kooyongkoot Road, where the focus has been on creating homes for downsizers seeking the space, quality and functionality of a detached house within a low-rise apartment building.

Rather than maximising apartment numbers, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/pqd">PQD</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a> limited the development to just 18 residences, allowing for larger floorplans, greater privacy, generous landscaping and expansive communal spaces.&nbsp;The majority of the apartments also benefit from corner aspects, allowing for dual sources of natural light.

Now around 70 per cent complete and on track for completion in November 2026, Kooyongkoot will comprise a mix of garden residences, ter​race apartments, sub-penthouses, and is crowned by two half-floor penthouses with direct lift access and private rooftop terraces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355297]

The Silver Award for Architecture recognised the way the building responds to its prominent corner position at the ent​rance to Hawthorn's Scotch Hill precinct, one of Melbourne's most established residential neighbourhoods.

Rather than competing with the grand homes that line Kooyongkoot Road, the architectural approach focused on restraint and longevity, using curved brickwork, generous landscaping and carefully considered proportions to integrate with the existing streetscape.

"The form feels fluid and timeless, as though shaped by the landscape itself – architecture that belongs, rather than competes," said Chris Stribley, Co-Founder and Managing Principal of Cera Stribley.

The judging submission also highlighted practical innovations throughout the building, including lift cores servicing only nine homes each, a central landscaped lightcourt designed to bring daylight and ventilation into the building, and fully enclosed private storage rooms with lighting, power and shelving to better accommodate residents transitioning from larger family homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355293]

The Gold Award for Interior Design recognised the project's focus on long-term liveability rather than display-home aesthetics.

According to the awards submission, the interiors were designed from the inside out, prioritising how homes would function over decades of daily use through generous proportions, practical storage, durable natural materials and flexible layouts.

The specification includes natural stone throughout, upgraded acoustic glazing, V-ZUG appliances and fully enclosed storage rooms, alongside an amenity offering focused on wellness, entertainment and everyday convenience.&nbsp;

Residents will have access to a gym and yoga studio, a wellness centre featuring traditional and infrared saunas, a cold therapy shower and treatment room, as well as a residents' lounge and golf simulator/cinema room for entertainment.&nbsp;Kooyongkoot has also considered the everyday convenience of its residents by offering a private carwash and pet wash facilities on site as well as dedicated parcel lockers and oversized fully enclosed storage rooms.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355303]

The project's attention to detail has already resonated with buyers. Earlier this year, Kooyongkoot recorded one of Boroondara's highest apartment sales when an $8 million penthouse was purchased by a Melbourne CEO downsizing from a nearby family home.

"Every detail feels deliberate, from the overall design down to the smallest touches," the purchaser said.

"The level of quality and refinement is exceptional, but what really sold it was how liveable it felt... It felt like a place where everything had been considered, not just a luxury building."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355304]

Sustainability also formed a key part of both award submissions. Kooyongkoot is targeting a minimum 7.5-star NatHERS rating across all residences, supported by passive design principles, high-performance glazing, EV charging infrastructure, water reuse systems and a wellness model focused on lower-energy dry facilities rather than pools and large wet areas.

Located within walking distance of Scotch College, Methodist Ladies' College, Koo​yong Lawn Tennis Club, Aubur​n Village and Camberwell Junction, Kooyongkoot continues to target owner-occupiers looking to remain in Melbourne's inner east without compromising on space or quality. A limited selection of two, three and four-bedroom residences remains available, with prices starting from $1.9 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=102717]

Kooyongkoot wins Gold and Silver at Better Future Melbourne Design Awards

New apartment supply has become increasingly constrained across <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/parramatta-nsw-2150">Parramatta</a> in recent years, with fewer projects progressing through to completion as development conditions have become more challenging.

It makes <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/novm">NOVM</a>'s 2021-completed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/the-lennox-parramatta-12-phillip-street-parramatta-nsw-2150">The Lennox</a> one of the most recently completed residential towers on the Parramatta River, and among the newest apartment developments in Sydney's second CBD.

With the project largely completed before the sharp escalation in construction costs and inflation following the pandemic, The Lennox is now offering pricing that would be difficult to replicate in a comparable new development in Parramatta today, or across much of Western Sydney.

The majority of the 413 apartments at The Lennox sold before and shortly after completion. A limited release of the remaining apartments has recently been brought to market by capital partner <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Equitifund</a>, with entry-level pricing from $700,000 and two-bedroom apartments available from under $1 million.

Rising above the Parramatta River at 12 Phillip Street, The Lennox comprises one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments, appealing to first home buyers, young professionals, families, downsizers and interstate investors seeking a completed apartment in one of Australia's fastest-growing economic centres.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=372394]

Rather than positioning Parramatta as an alternative to Sydney's CBD, Equitifund believes the city has reached a point where it stands on its own merits.

"Parramatta is no longer simply an alternative to Sydney CBD, it's becoming a destination in its own right," Equitifund Executive Chairman Greg Huxley said.

"The Lennox captures that evolution with a level of quality and amenity that's difficult to match at its price point."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=953]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/marchese-partners">Marchese Partners</a>, the tower responds directly to its riverfront setting through expansive glazing and open-plan layouts that maximise views across the Parramatta River and city skyline. Interiors feature engineered timber flooring, stone benchtops, stainless steel appliances and floor-to-ceiling glazing, while generous balconies extend the living spaces outdoors.

Marchese Partners says the project was conceived to balance high-quality apartment living with practical, long-term functionality, pairing larger, efficient floorplans with amenities more commonly associated with five-star hotels.

That emphasis continues through the resident facilities, which include a 20-metre rooftop swimming pool, fully equipped gym and wellness spaces, full-time concierge, a residents' lounge, function room, private lifts, secure basement parking and rooftop communal areas overlooking the Parramatta River. Ground-floor boardwalk retail and dining further activate the riverfront and integrate the building into the surrounding public realm.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=925]

Australian housing and finance group Equitifund has secured the remaining apartments, believing there are few completed apartment opportunities in Parramatta that offer the same combination of location, amenity and pricing.

Equitifund National Sales Director Ben Hamblett says buyers are increasingly recognising that premium apartment living no longer needs to come with Sydney CBD pricing.

"The Lennox is where aspirational living becomes attainable," Hamblett said.

"Wake to river and mountain views, step into Sydney's Second CBD, and arrive home to resort-calibre amenities, all without the harbour price tag."

Hamblett says owner-occupiers are also attracted by the convenience of having Westfield Parramatta, Church Street's dining precinct, Parramatta Park, Riverside Theatres, Western Sydney University and major transport connections all within walking distance.

"At The Lennox, lifestyle is not an afterthought, it is the foundation."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=5374]

The Lennox places residents within walking distance of Parramatta Square, Westfield Parramatta, Church Street Eat Street, Parramatta Station, the ferry wharf, Light Rail, the future Sydney Metro West, Parramatta Park and CommBank Stadium, reinforcing Parramatta's position as one of Australia's most connected metropolitan centres outside Sydney's CBD.

Equitifund says buyers visiting the display suite consistently comment on the quality of the finishes, generous floorplans, river and skyline views, and the walkability of the location. The project has attracted a broad mix of local professionals, upsizers, downsizers, buyers relocating from Sydney's inner suburbs and interstate investors seeking long-term growth opportunities.

That demand aligns with Parramatta's continued evolution as an economic powerhouse. Equitifund Research and Market Insights specialist John Bekiaris says sustained population growth, infrastructure investment and expanding employment opportunities continue to support long-term housing demand across the city.

"Parramatta has evolved from a satellite city into one of Australia's most important economic centres. Population growth, infrastructure investment and employment are all supporting sustained long-term housing demand."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=5743]

The apartment price gap drawing Sydney buyers west

A luxury beachfront apartment at Rainbow Bay has more than doubled in value since it sold off the plan six years ago, setting a new local apartment record in the process.

The three-bedroom apartment in the Flow development on Petrie Street, the first of four new projects locally by Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects, has sold for $7.4 million, after originally selling for $3.27 million when the project launched in 2020.

The seventh-floor apartment, comprising 187 sqm of internal living space and a 54 sqm balcony overlooking Froggies Beach and Snapper Rocks, was purchased by a local family.

The transaction was negotiated by Pezet Matheson director Kerry Pezet and equates to more than $30,000 per sqm.

Pezet said the sale reflected the limited opportunities to buy into the boutique beachfront development.

"The sale highlights the rarity of opportunities within the boutique beachfront development, where residences seldom become available," Pezet said.

"Flow is one of the Gold Coast's most tightly held buildings. Buyers from our database move quickly when residences become available, and achieving an off-market sale at $7.4 million demonstrates the depth of demand for property of this calibre."

<img alt="Flow" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c585b206-2130-4eee-a50c-3f27c51a7c70" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-06%20at%208.33.25%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=m3pHRDV62Y3fvN.XQuQHq.52ilTWpRLf" />

Flow was the first of four luxury apartment developments delivered by Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects at Rainbow Bay and was completed in 2023.

Positioned on the beachfront overlooking Snapper Rocks, the residence includes three bedrooms, three bathrooms, a powder room and views stretching north along the coastline towards Surfers Paradise.

Pezet Matheson Residential principal Mitchell Lambert said buyers continued to prioritise quality beachfront apartments in tightly held locations.

"Flow Residences offers a rare combination of elevated beachfront positioning, architectural excellence, comprehensive resident amenity and premium finishes, which is exactly what discerning purchasers are seeking," Lambert said.

"The transaction further reinforces Rainbow Bay's reputation as one of Australia's premier coastal lifestyle destinations, where limited supply and growing demand continue to support strong market performance."

Pezet Matheson originally marketed and sold out Flow off the plan, making the latest transaction a return to one of the project's original buyers.

Paul Gedoun is selling his third project, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/radia-rainbow-bay-271-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Radia Rainbow Bay</a>, after recently completing, and selling out, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/esprit-217-227-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Esprit</a>. He has plans for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-s-s-projects-proposes-88-apartment-wellness-tower-at-coolangattas-boundary-street">fourth building</a>, 88 apartments on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/209-213-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Boundary Street</a>.

Jessie Richardson

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News