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It was a very good long weekend for at least 10 sellers who secured the highest property prices in the country.
Property Observer looks at the top 10 sales of last week, according to <a href="https://www.myrp.com.au/" target="_blank">RP Data</a>.
<ol>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-clontarf-116474835" target="_blank">9 Peronne Avenue, Clontarf, NSW</a> <img src="/images/2014/06/11/1.jpg" alt=""> Designed by architects Smith &amp; Tzannes, this contemporary waterfront home fetched $6.95 million this weekend. It was sold through Richardson &amp; Wrench Seaforth. The four bedroom home was purchased by the vendors for $4.6 million in 2003. 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-hunters+hill-116923699" target="_blank">1 Gladstone Avenue, Hunters Hill, NSW</a>
<img src="/images/2014/06/11/2.jpg" alt=""> This five bedroom, four bathroom sandstone home sold for $4.975 million through Ward Partners Hunters Hill. The trophy home with views to the harbour bridge underwent renovations 10 years ago and has a contemporary extension at the rear. Although it was the second highest sale of the weekend, the vendors made a loss on the property – they paid $6 million in 2011.
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-leichhardt-116876611" target="_blank">27 Marlborough Street, Leichhardt, NSW</a>  <img src="/images/2014/06/11/3.jpg" alt=""> The Victorian fire station sold by banker Ashley Salter and Paspaley Pearls creative director Christine Salter <a href="/news/leichhardt-forges-another-residential-record-for-former-fire-station">broke Leichhardt’s property sale record</a>, securing $3.05 million. They purchased the home for $2.45 million in 2007, a record at the time for the suburb. It was sold through Ray White Annandale.</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-runaway+bay-112684419" target="_blank">46 Shearwater Esplanade Runaway Bay, QLD </a>
<img src="/images/2014/06/11/4.jpg" alt="">
This triple storey, seven bedroom home sold for $2.575 million. The home with panoramic views over Broadwater was sold through Ray White Sovereign Islands. The property saw a half million dollar price cut, after being on the market for two and a half years with a listing price of $3.095 million. It was purchased by the vendors for $1.75 million in 2003.
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-double+bay-116949303" target="_blank">40 Epping Road Double Bay, NSW</a>
<img src="/images/2014/06/11/5.jpg" alt="">
This modest three bedroom home sold in Double Bay sold for $2.31 million through Living Here Double Bay. The house had remained in the owner’s possession for over 80 years.
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-nsw-sydney-116869267" target="_blank">A202 'Alexander' Globe Street, Sydney, NSW </a>
<img src="/images/2014/06/11/6.jpg" alt="">
An apartment in nine storey Alexander building at the waterfront promenade of the <a href="/expert-insights/buying/harbourfront-barangaroo-apartment-developments-stoke-significant-anticipatory-interest">upcoming Barangaroo development</a> sold for $2.31 million last week through McGrath Estate Agents. 
The two bedroom apartment has a 122 square metre layout, with 22 square metres of al fresco dining space.
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-coogee-116847451" target="_blank">337 Rainbow Street, Coogee, NSW </a>
<img src="/images/2014/06/11/7.jpg" alt="">
This three bedroom Coogee home was sold for $2.2 million at auction by Laing &amp; Simmons Bondi Junction. Set on 487 square metres of land, the home has coastal water views.
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-mount+waverley-116962835" target="_blank">5 Neva Court, Mount Waverley, VIC</a>
<img src="/images/2014/06/11/8.jpg" alt="">
A brand new five bedroom home secured $2.039 million before it was due to be auctioned. It was sold through Ray White Glen Waverley. The 893 square metre plot was purchased by the vendors just last year for $856,500 dollars.
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-port+melbourne-116950147" target="_blank">803/147 Beach Street, Port Melbourne, VIC</a>
<img src="/images/2014/06/11/9.jpg" alt="">
With three bedrooms and two bathrooms, this waterfront apartment sold for $2 million through Lucas Real Estate Agent Docklands after 25 days on the market. The Port Melbourne unit was purchased for $890,000 in 2001.
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-paddington-116821279" target="_blank">7 Macdonald Street, Paddington, NSW <img src="/images/2014/06/11/10.jpg" alt=""> </a>
Sold through Raine &amp; Horne Double Bay, this three bedroom house secured $1.925 million. The single fronted home is spread over three levels, with separate self-contained accommodation on the ground level. It was purchased by the vendor for $902,500 in 2001.
For more information on these properties, go to <a href="https://www.myrpdata.com/" target="_blank">myRPData.com</a>.
</li>
</ol>
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jrichardson-uRX5hFdKfN

The 10 most expensive sales of the week: RP Data

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It was Queensland that failed to get a look in on the 10 most expensive sales of the week, despite taking out the top place last week.
The most expensive sales all came from Victoria or Sydney, according to RP Data.
<ol>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-canterbury-117121935" target="_blank">126 Mont Albert Road, Canterbury, Vic </a> <img src="/images/2014/07/15/e1.jpg" alt=""> A five bedroom, four bathroom house <a href="/news/mont-albert-road-canterbury-trophy-home-sells-for-6-66-million">in Melbourne's Canterbury sold for $6,660,000 last week</a> through Hocking Stuart Glen Iris. Set on a 2,051 square metre plot, the Tuscan-style mansion comes with an outdoor entertaining room with a television, barbecue and fireplace, a pool and tennis court. Inside, there is a formal sitting room, a games room, a separate dining room, a study and a kitchen topped with Calcutta marble. The vendors purchased the home just three years ago, for $5,500,000. 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.century21.com.au/property/279993/" target="_blank">48 Carabella Street, Kirribilli, NSW </a> <img src="/images/2014/07/15/e2.jpg" alt=""> This <a href="/news">Kirribilli </a>mansion sold for $4,500,000 through Century 21 Mosman. Another five bedroom, four bathroom house (though more than $2 million cheaper than Canterbury's offering), the home was sold by <a href="/expert-insights/buying/computer-software-entrepreneur-simon-clausen-sells-kirribilli-mansion-burnleigh">former Young Rich Lister Simon Clausen</a>, now an expatriate in Sweden. Though it was reportedly sold in late June, the sale was presumably only reported this week to RP Data. It had been listed since October 2013. Clausen and his wife, Alexandra, purchased the home for $3.98 million in 2008. 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.ppdre.com.au/1P0509" target="_blank">4 Bourke Street, Queens Park, NSW </a> <img src="/images/2014/07/15/e3.jpg" alt=""> A contemporary five bedroom, four bathroom home sold for $2,975,000 through Phillips Pantzer Donnelley. The <a href="/news">Queens Park</a> home set on a 386 square metre dual-access block comes with a two storey self-contained guesthouse. The main house has wide timber floorboards throughout, a walk in pantry, and a marble-topped kitchen. The vendors purchased the property, five minutes from Bondi Junction, in 2010 for $1,975,000. 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-willoughby-117266903" target="_blank">6 Pendey Street, Willoughby, NSW </a> <img src="/images/2014/07/15/e4.jpg" alt=""> Sold through L J Hooker Willoughby, this home secured $2,240,000. The five bedroom, three bathroom house has generous open plan living spaces. The house is set on a 580 square metre elevated lot, with leafy views of the suburb. The vendors purchased the home less than a year before selling. It was sold at a loss, with the former owners buying the house in 2013 for $2,360,000. 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-balmain-117287835" target="_blank">155 Darling Street, Balmain, NSW </a> <img src="/images/2014/07/15/e5.jpg" alt=""> This sandstone corner terrace sold for $2,400,000 through Cobden &amp; Hayson Balmain. The home, built in 1858, has been renovated, with contemporary interiors. A double height atrium is the central feature of the home, which has two storeys and opens to a north facing entertaining area. There are four bedrooms and two bathrooms, and the private "master wing" has a walk in robe, ensuite and private deck. The vendors bought the home in 2010, for $2,125,000. 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-nsw-manly-117244863" target="_blank">501/95 West Esplanade, Manly, NSW </a> <img src="/images/2014/07/15/e6.jpg" alt=""> A <a href="/news">Manly </a>penthouse secured $2,150,000 when it was sold through Bergelin Estate Agents. The three bedroom, two bathroom home in the Manly hillside has panoramic views over the Manly ferry, harbour and heads. Each room of the open plan home extends to adjoining terraces. The vendors purchased the home in May 2009. 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-freshwater-117227027" target="_blank">40 Wilson Street, Freshwater, NSW </a> <img src="/images/2014/07/15/e7.jpg" alt=""> This modest single storey brick home sold for $2,110,000 through Smyth Estate Agents. With a 919 square metre flat plot, the potential for development on the flat block was central to its marketing campaign. The home had been held by the same family for more than 60 years. 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-south+melbourne-117256503" target="_blank">292 Cecil Street, South Melbourne, Vic </a> <img src="/images/2014/07/15/e8.jpg" alt=""> Greg Hocking Holdsworth Albert Park sold this three bedroom, one bathroom <a href="/news">South Melbourne</a> Victorian home for $2,100,000. The freestanding house, located near MSAC, Albert Park Village and Clarendon Street, is north-facing at the rear, bringing light into the kitchen and living areas. The vendors had owned the home for almost 30 years. They purchased the property for $180,000 in November 1984, selling it this week for more than 11 times that price. 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-bella+vista-116601871" target="_blank">11 Montpellier Rise, Bella Vista, NSW </a> <img src="/images/2014/07/15/e9.jpg" alt=""> A six bedroom, three car home in <a href="/news">Bella Vista</a> also sold for $2,100,000 this week. Century 21 Prime Property secured the sale of the contemporary house. The newly built home, which took two years to complete, has multiple large living areas and double sized bedrooms. outside, there is a private entertaining area with a barbecue and cooktop, and a swimming pool that comes with a waterfall and coloured lighting. 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-clovelly-117246355" target="_blank">30 Clifton Road, Clovelly, NSW </a> <img src="/images/2014/07/15/e10.jpg" alt=""> This single fronted home was sold for $2,050,000 through Ray White Kensington. The four bedrooms, three bathroom house with two levels was recently renovated by the vendors. The property has been in their hands since 1987.</li>
</ol>
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Despite months on the market and huge price cuts, these properties just won’t budge.
These 10 properties are the most heavily discounted in the country, according to <a href="https://sqmresearch.us5.list-manage.com/track/click?u=9badbd870addb4af72206c2eb&amp;id=0f8e3c8687&amp;e=0aab96dc54" target="_blank">SQM Research</a>.
<ol>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-acreage+semi+rural-qld-ellen+grove-114951879" target="_blank">38 Considine Street, Ellen Grove, Queensland</a>
<img src="/images/2014/07/09/1.jpg" alt="">
The owners of this 1.57 hectare flat block with a brick house have lopped its price by 43%, this biggest house price cut of any home currently on the market. After 245 days on the market and a new $799,000 asking price, down from $1,400,000, the property is still for sale. A half hour’s drive from the Brisbane CBD, the property is being advertised on its development potential.
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-tas-richmond-114883299" target="_blank">2 Wellington Street, Richmond, Tasmania</a>
<img src="/images/2014/07/09/2.jpg" alt="">
Richmond’s Mill House, sitting alongside the convict-built Richmond bridge, has seen its asking price cut by $1 million, down from $2,800,000 to $1,800,000. The historic property has a four bedroom, four bathroom main residence, with a formal living and dining area, sunroom and cellar. There is also a self-contained cottage on the property, and the vendors are open to selling the adjoining plot. According to the listing information, “A change of circumstances has significantly increased the motivation of the Vendors of this magnificent Country Retreat [sic]”.
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-wa-carabooda-114289451" target="_blank">219 Bernard Road North Carabooda, West Australia</a>
<img src="/images/2014/07/09/3.jpg" alt="">
A newcomer to SQM’s list, this rural property has been discounted by 35%, with its asking price now $2,272,000, down from $3,500,000. It’s been on the market for 321 days. SQM notes the property is an “acquired taste,” writing that “this home would perhaps struggle to find buyer interest outside of those interested in the rural/farming market, narrowing down the vendor's target market immensely”. According to its listing information, the property is located four or five kilometres from the “future CBD of Alkimos”.
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.raywhite.com/nsw/michelago/668779/" target="_blank">76 Tinderry Road, Michelago, New South Wales</a>
<img src="/images/2014/07/09/4.jpg" alt=""> Another rural property that won’t budge, this 710 hectare plot has been on the property for more than three and a half years, and has been discounted by 34%. The property, located near Michelago village, is within a half hour’s drive of Canberra’s suburbs. Permanent water is supplied to the property by the Michelago creek, with two dams on the land. The original 1925-era home still stands on the property and requires significant renovations.
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-wa-doubleview-116544475" target="_blank">1 Princess Road, Doubleview, West Australia</a>
 <img src="/images/2014/07/09/5.jpg" alt="">
Advertised as a four lot subdivision opportunity, this property in Perth’s Doubleview has been discounted by 33%. On the market for 91 days, the cottage and granny flat on the plot are advertised as “very rentable during the development phase”. They sit on a 1,412 square metre plot. The vendors purchased 1 Princess Road for $150,000 in 1990. They are hoping to secure more than 10 times what they paid for the property, with an asking price of $1,800,000.
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-sa-strathalbyn-107584093" target="_blank">21 Cotton Court, Strathalbyn, South Australia</a>
<img src="/images/2014/04/30/strathalbyn.jpg">
This home in the South Australian town of Strathalbyn is listed at $339,000, 32% down from its initial $498,000 asking price. 21 Cotton Court has been on the market for almost three years. The 1900s style house was purchased by the current vendors for $118,000 in 1995. It’s the only South Australian home on the top 10 list.
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-tas-battery+point-108230936" target="_blank">1/23 Albuera Street, Battery Point, Tasmania</a>
<img src="/images/2014/07/09/6.jpg" alt="">
This luxury renovated apartment offering in Hobart is situated in the former Albuera Art School. Vendors are seeking offers over $1,500,000, while its initial asking price, 986 days ago, was $2,200,000. The property has three double bedrooms, with polished timber floors throughout and pressed metal ceilings.
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-green+point-114436679" target="_blank">99 Green Point Drive, Green Point, New South Wales</a>
<img src="/images/2014/04/30/green%20point%20drive.jpg">
A contemporary home in the New South Wales Central Coast has been discounted by 31% after more than 1,373 on the market. Listed for more than two and a half years, it’s been on the market longer than any other property currently listed in Australia. It has four bedrooms, with an en suite with spa attached to the master bedroom. There is also an outdoor covered spa at the back of the property. 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-bar+point-113991687" target="_blank">53 Kalinda Road, Bar Point, New South Wales</a>
<img src="/images/2014/07/09/9.jpg" alt="">
The price of this two cabin property set above a waterfront reserve on the banks of the Hawkesbury River was cut from $280,000 to $195,000, a 30% drop. It’s been on the market for 581 days. Advertised as a “great weekender”, the first cabin has two bedrooms, a kitchen and living area, while the other has a bedroom and bathroom. There is also the opportunity to take up a license for a jetty on the property, though there isn’t a ramp and pontoon currently installed.
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-box+hill-115886643" target="_blank">4/14 Spring Street, Box Hill, Victoria</a>
<img src="/images/2014/07/09/10.jpg" alt="">
This one bedroom apartment, advertised as student accommodation, is on the market for $160,500. When it was first listed 154 days ago, it was advertised at $230,000. Next door to the Box Hill Hospital, the apartment is within walking distance of Box Hill’s shopping centres, public transport and the Box Hill Institute. If vendors sell at its current asking price, they will be making a loss – they bought the apartment for $173,000 in 2007.
</li>
</ol>
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The 10 most heavily discounted homes in Australia

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A Queensland estate beat out blue chip Sydney offerings to secure the most expensive sale of this week, according to RP Data. 
The Fig Tree Pocket home in Brisbane's South West (pictured above) secured $8.25 million.
RP Data suggest that another Queensland home came in second place for the week, with a $4.5 million sale for a Cleveland house. However, it looks like it was beat by a <a href="/news/vic/toorak-home-with-medium-density-potential-fetches-6-01-million">Georgian-inspired Toorak mansion</a>, which sold for $6.01 million on the weekend (pictured below). 
<img src="/images/2014/06/23/toorak_0000_2.jpg.jpg" alt="Toorak home with medium density potential fetches $6.01 million">
RP Data's top 10 sales of the week:
<ol>
<li>
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/15_ningana_street_fig_tree_pocket_qld_4069/4620090" target="_blank">15 Ningana Street, Fig Tree Pocket, QLD</a> <img src="/images/2014/06/24/1.jpg" alt=""> Barrambin, a sprawling 9, 991 square metre waterfront estate, sold through Adcock Prestige Brisbane for $8.25 million. The expansive five bedroom, seven bathroom home designed by Osterfield and Johnson is set around a central pool. The estate includes a tennis court, gardens, a fruit orchard, two fresh water lakes (with fish, turtles and crayfish), a music room, sauna and air conditioned wine cellar. 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/8_sentinel_court_cleveland_qld_4163/3944548" target="_blank">8 Sentinel Court, Cleveland, QLD</a> <img src="/images/2014/06/24/2.jpg" alt=""> This five-bedroom contemporary home sold through Ray White Cleveland for $4.5 million. Set on 1426 square metres with a private marina berth, the home has views over Moreton Bay. The double brick home has four bathrooms, limestone floors, a marble kitchen and wine cellar, with a swimming pool. 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/13_oxford_street_malvern_vic_3144/14748236" target="_blank">13 Oxford Street, Malvern, VIC</a> <img src="/images/2014/06/24/3.jpg" alt=""> Mororo is a brick Edwardian home, built around 1901. The four-bedroom house was sold at auction on June 21 by Marshall White Armadale for $4.225 million. The four bedroom house, set on 1,125 square metres, has floor boards throughout, with open fireplaces. The property was held by the vendors for almost 34 years. They purchased it for $188,000 in 1980.  
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/210_albert_road_strathfield_nsw_2135/6478251" target="_blank">210 Albert Road, Strathfield, NSW</a> <img src="/images/2014/06/24/4.jpg" alt=""> Simeon Manners Property Mosman sold this six bedroom house for $3.8 million, <a href="/expert-insights/buying/willie-mason-doesnt-sell-but-june-sydney-auctions-on-record-streak">which was below its price guidance</a>. According to the agents, the trophy home was built “in accordance with Feng Shui principles”. The house has six bedrooms and six bathrooms, a formal living and dining area with wet bar, a gym, sauna and steam room. 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/57_boronia_road_bellevue_hill_nsw_2023/1368482" target="_blank">57 Boronia Road Bellevue Hill, NSW</a> <img src="/images/2014/06/24/main.jpg" alt=""> This Bellevue Hill home was sold through Laing + Simmons Double Bay and Raine &amp; Horne Double Bay for $3.7 million. The Hamptons inspired home with a double fronted Federation façade has five bedrooms and four bathrooms. The master has garden access, a walk in robe and full spa en suite. 
</li>
<li> <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/47_cambridge_street_paddington_nsw_2021/5262831" target="_blank">47 Cambridge Street, Paddington, NSW</a> <img src="/images/2014/06/24/6.jpg" alt=""> Westbury, a four-bedroom house, sold at auction on June 21 by McGrath Estate Agents for $3.437 million. The Victorian Italianate terrace with north east rear aspect was built around 1889. Set over three levels, the home opens with a marble entry hall and has an attic retreat. The vendors bought the home for $3 million four years ago. 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/46_mary_street_hunters_hill_nsw_2110/3007023" target="_blank">46 Mary Street, Hunters Hill, NSW</a> <img src="/images/2014/06/24/7.jpg" alt=""> McGrath Estate Agents auctioned this home this weekend, securing $3.28 million. The six-bedroom house is an extended circa 1880s sandstone cottage. The home is set on a 1,233 square metre block across the street from St Joseph’s college. Indoors, there are six open fireplaces, French limestone and iron bark floors. Outside, there is a heated pool and spa. Set on 1,233 square metresVendors held onto the house for 21 years. They purchased it for $530,000 in 1993. . 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/39_townson_street_blakehurst_nsw_2221/1479562" target="_blank">39 Townson Street, Blakehurst, NSW</a> <img src="/images/2014/06/24/8.jpg" alt=""> This five-bedroom house was sold through Gavan Property St George for $3 million. The house has tripled in value in six years – the vendors bought the property for $970,000 in 2008. While four of the five bedrooms are already substantial offerings, with en suites and private balconies, the master bedroom is “apartment sized”, with an en suite with double spa, a private balcony and secure keypad access. Outside, there is a substantial covered entertaining area and pool. 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/21_black_street_vaucluse_nsw_2030/7137362" target="_blank">21 Black Street, Vaucluse, NSW</a> <img src="/images/2014/06/24/9.jpg" alt=""> This modest home was auctioned on June 21 by Sotheby's International Realty and Belle Property, selling for $2.907 million. The unrenovated single storey home was purchased 31 years by the owners, who paid $307,500 in 1983. Set on 727 square metres of land, the house with ocean views has five bedrooms and two bathrooms. 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/90_collins_road_st_ives_nsw_2075/6401539" target="_blank">90 Collins Road, St Ives, NSW <img src="/images/2014/06/24/10.jpg" alt=""> </a>Chadwick Real Estate St Ives sold this house prior to auction for $2.88 million. Set on a 1353 square metre plot, this home in Sydney’s North Shore has five double bedrooms, plus a study or sixth bedroom, and two bathrooms. Outside, there’s a heated pool and spa in a big sunny north facing backyard.
</li>
</ol>
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Even Hockingstuart Albert Park's David Wood, who auctioned Josh and Charlotte's apartment at The Block Triple Threat finale, was surprised by the results.
"In reality, I think the results were beyond everyone's expectations," Wood told Property Observer. Although he had good reason to believe the sales would go well, based on his winning experience auctioning Steve and Chantelle's Block Fans v Faves apartment in Albert Park, the <a href="/expert-insights/investing/deanne-and-darrens-935-000-block-2015-triple-threat-auction-result-redemption">results last week</a> were particularly spectacular. Josh and Charlotte's townhouse at 1/27 Darling Street in South Yarra sold for $810,000 over reserve at $2.2 million, clearly exceeding the $636,000 winnings amassed by Steve and Chantelle when their apartment sold for $2.47 million.
At the Fans v Faves auction, many speculated that Steve and Chantelle's final place in the auction order played an important role in the result, with demand increasing as supply dwindled.
At the Triple Threat auction, Wood's clients Josh and Charlotte again went last, and had the second highest result (after Deanne and Darren).
"We were the last cab off the rank, so the big thing for us at the end was how many buyers we were able to hold on to, and how many were we going to lose?" said Wood.
He said the buyers could be put in two categories - those who only wanted one apartment, and those who were open minded, so long as they were able to secure one of the four Block properties on offer.
The Block auctions themselves are an unusual experience, says Wood.
"It doesn't follow a regular pattern, in that we know that a lot of people are keen to get the ball rolling and get it started.
"We don't have that situation where we ask for a bid, nothing happens, and then we have to resort to a vendor bid."
One of those who got the ball rolling at the Triple Threat auctions was buyer's agent and Block judge Nicole Jacobs, who placed strong opening bids at each auction. Jacobs "had her finger on the pulse as to where the buyer interest was in the room," said Woods.
"If you know that, it's a good strategy."
The buyer interest this time round seemed to be much stronger than at The Block Glasshouse, where some couples took home as little as $10,000. Wood wasn't involved in the The Block Glasshouse, and said the disappointing results in the Prahran auctions may have partially been due to the agents.
"I do think the agents left a few things to chance," said Wood.
"I don't think they were close enough to their buyers. For a start, they didn't have the number of buyers in the room that there was this year.
"But you can't say it was a different market - the market was very strong. It's a matter of the agent really drilling down and getting the buyer front and centre in the room, on the day."
The opportunity to get the buyers in the room is something Wood would welcome at future Block auctions, saying he'd love to be involved again.
"It's a very serious program, and we take real estate very seriously," said Wood.
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Auctioneer David Wood on why The Block Triple Threat went so well, and why the Glasshouse didn't

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Former House Rules contestants Carole and Russell Bramston sold their controversial Halls Head property earlier this year at a loss.
The Perth couple <a href="/expert-insights/building/house-rules-contestants-hardly-on-struggle-street-say-critics">attracted criticism</a> when various media outlets reported they had a $2.3 million property portfolio, which included the three bedroom Halls Head home at <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/property/for-sale/house/wa/boya/?adid=2011627991" target="_blank">14 Leisure Way</a>.
But the couple told WA Today last year that the home had "a massive mortgage over it" and they couldn't afford to live in the home.
The couple had been attempting to sell the home since April last year, when it was listed with an asking price of $1.17 million. After its price guide was lowered to $995,000, it was pulled off the market in September.
However, they seem to have found a buyer, with the property selling for $1.05 million in February this year. Having paid $1.1 million for the home in 2012, they have made a loss on this year's sale.
The house sold through Harcourts Mandurah, who have handled the house's sale campaign since April 2014.
Despite the loss, the sale is likely welcome news for the couple, who have also been trying to <a href="/expert-insights/building/house-rules-carole-and-russell-offloading-renovated-home">offload their Boya home</a> which was renovated on House Rules last year.
<img src="/images/2014/05/06/carole-and-russell-may-6-breakout.jpg" alt="House Rules' Carole and Russell offloading renovated home">
The <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/property/for-sale/house/wa/boya/?adid=2011627991" target="_blank">Coulston Road house</a> on a 1,640 square metre plot was listed in October last year, with the Bramstons saying they would have kept the house if they had won the series and had their mortgage paid off. They attempted to sell the home late last year in an effort to downsize and enter retirement debt-free, but were unsuccessful. It was listed in October with a price guide of $689,000, but was taken off the market in February this year.
The Bramstons paid $360,000 for the Boya home when they purchased it off classfieds website Gumtree.
 
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House Rules' Carole and Russell Bramston sell Halls Head house

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The volume of house sales across Tasmania increased by 12.1% over the March quarter, according to the Real Estate Institute of Tasmania (REIT).
In the March quarter, 1,622 Tasmanian houses sold. The result is the highest seen in Tasmania since the March quarter of 2010, when 1,658 houses sold. REIT president Tony Collidge claims the quarterly results show many markets in Tasmania have bottomed out.
The 1,622 houses sold with a median price of $310,000, with prices highest in Hobart's inner ring, which recorded a median price of $548,000.
In West Hobart, the <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/west-hobart/Property-Details-sold-residential-8471530" target="_blank">Federation home</a> pictured below sold for $548,000 in March this year.
<img src="/images/photos/Federation.jpg" alt="" width="569" height="391">
The four bedroom double brick home is on a 600 square metre plot and is located close to various schools and public transport.
Vendors are taking offers over $530,000 for this <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/318-murray-street-north-hobart/Property-Details-buy-residential-3777505">double storey brick home</a>. It has been renovated, and has four bedrooms, with both formal and informal living areas.
<img src="/images/photos/tas.jpg" alt="" width="567" height="359">
Launceston house sale volumes rose by a greater proportion in the quarter, at 15.3%, than in Hobart, where the number of house sales increased by 7%.
Across Tasmania, the median house price was down 1.6% for the quarter, but up 1.6% annually.
Collidge said investor activity had increased over the three months to March, with 261 sales to investors.
"These investor figures are up 2% to 16% of all buyers, with a median house purchase price of $242,000," said Collidge.
"Likewise mainland buyers increased to 17% of all sales, whilst sales to foreign purchasers remained at 1%.
"These figures are indicative of the Melbourne and Sydney markets being near the top of their run, with many mainland investors looking for other destinations to invest, and the positive signs within our property market, good returns, low vacancy rates, and a turnaround in activity have made Tasmania an area worth considering."
The REIT recorded the strongest rates of first home buyer sales in the North West Coast and Launceston. Over the quarter, 19 Tasmanian homes sold for over $1 million.
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Tasmanian house sale volumes reach five year high: REIT

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The latest advertising campaign from NAB promises "home loan rates your parents will be jealous of", and following yesterday's rate cut announcement, they might be right.
The Reserve Bank yesterday announced an official cash rate cut of 25 basis points, from 2.25% to 2.0%.
Lenders have quickly followed suit, although NAB has not yet announced any rate change.
Of the Big Four, ANZ and the Commonwealth Bank have both announced a rate cut. ANZ will be passing on the full rate 25 basis point cut to its variable rate loan, which will be available at 5.38% from 5.63%, effective 8 May.
The Commonwealth Bank has not passed on the full rate cut, instead choosing to drop its standard variable rate loan by just 20 basis points, from 5.65% to 5.45%, effective 13 May.
ING Direct, ME Bank and loans.com.au have all cut their interest rates by the full 25 basis points. According to <a href="https://mozo.com.au/home-loans" target="_blank">comparison website Mozo</a>, the change will save borrowers $44 a month for an average $300,000 25 year loan.
Loans.com.au continues to offer the lowest variable rate, with a 3.98% rate on their Dream Home Loan Essentials product.
Mozo director Kirsty Lamont recommends borrowers use new lower rates to pay off their mortgage more quickly.
"If homeowners were to ignore yesterday's rate cut and keep repayments the same, the average homeowner would save $11,160 in interest and pay their mortgage off 13 months sooner," says Lamont.
<img src="/images/2015/05/06/nab-coloru-correct.jpg" alt=""> Above: NAB's new campaign.
The rates offered by the Big Four banks:
ANZ: Variable Rate 5.38% (effective 8 May)
Commonwealth Bank: Standard Variable Rate 5.45% (effective 13 May)
NAB: Tailored Home Loan 5.63%
Westpac: Rocket Repay Home Loan 5.70%
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"Rates your parents will be jealous of" as banks cut following RBA announcement

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The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has cut the official cash rate by 25 basis points to 2.0% at its May meeting.
Many expected the RBA's decision after it kept rates on hold for April. The move <a href="/expert-insights/finance/amp-capitals-shane-oliver-wont-be-surprised-if-rba-holds-off-another-cut-in-may">was anticipated</a> by AMP Capital head of Investment Strategy and chief economist Shane Oliver among others.
According to comparison website <a href="https://finder.com.au">Finder</a>'s Michelle Hutchison, borrowers with a variable rate home loan are likely to save around $47 a month on a $300,000 loan with the new official cash rate.
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Reserve Bank cuts interest rate to 2.0% for May

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Variable loan rates are available as low as 4.23%, with the lowest rates offered by non-bank lenders, according to comparison website Mozo.
Loans.com.au and Homestar both offer loans at 4.23% interest rates. Loans.com.au's Dream Home Loans Essential product has a maximum loan amount of $750,000, while Homestar's variable rate loan has a $1 million loan limit.
<a href="https://mozo.com.au/home-loans" target="_blank">The lowest variable rates currently on offer</a>:
<ul>
<li>loans.com.au, Dream Home Loan Essentials: 4.23% (comparison rate: 4.25%)</li>
<li>Homestar, Variable Rate Loan: 4.23% (comparison rate: 4.26%)</li>
<li>loans.com.au, Dream Home Loan Offset Variable: 4.27% (comparison rate: 4.29%)</li>
<li>iMortgage, Essential Home Loan: 4.29% (comparison rate: 4.31%)</li>
<li>UBank, UHomeLoan - Real Reward Offer: 4.29% (comparison rate: 4.29%)</li>
<li>Newcastle Permanent, Discounted Variable Home Loan (Premium Plus Package): 4.29% (comparison rate: 4.64%)</li>
<li>Queenslanders Credit Union    Ultimate Home Loan Special ($250,000 to $500,000): 4.33% (comparison rate: 4.37%)</li>
</ul>
 
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The cheapest variable loans on offer: Mozo

Local developer Harridan is seeking to turn its Woolloongabba apartment project into the first stage of a broader transformation of Burke Street, using a new 16-storey mixed-use building to establish a greener pedestrian connection toward the rapidly evolving Boggo Road transport and knowledge precinct.

The South East Queensland developer has filed plans for 154 apartments on the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/4-burke-street-woolloongabba-qld-4102">southern side of Burke Street</a>, where its proposal has been designed alongside a wider vision by LatStudios for the street.

That vision positions the southern side of Burke Street for buildings of 15 storeys and above, while envisaging lower-rise development of up to five storeys on the northern side to transition into Woolloongabba's existing character housing. It also proposes wider pedestrian verges, deep planting, new street trees and upgrades to the pedestrian approach to Boggo Road Station.

The Harridan development itself has been designed by Brisbane-based Arqus Design and will comprise 154 apartments across 16 storeys. The mix is weighted heavily toward two-bedroom apartments, with 121 proposed alongside 10 one-bedroom and 23 three-bedroom residences. There will typically be around 14 units per floor.

A lower-ground car park and three podium levels will accommodate 156 resident parking spaces, along with visitor and commercial parking. There will also be 154 resident bicycle spaces and 40 visitor bicycle parks.

&nbsp;

Harridan is a family-owned developer and part of the Holmwood Highgate Group, with more than three decades of development activity across South East Queensland. Its portfolio spans residential, commercial and industrial property, with current residential projects including Riverbank on Byron in Bulimba, Esperance Residences in Carina and The Precinct at Kinross Road in Thornlands.

Wooloongabba has been popular for apartment developers, particularly since the announcement of the 2032 Summer Olympics games in Brisbane.

While there have been a lot of development applications, it has failed to materialize into real supply.&nbsp;

Sarazin has been the major player in the area. They are under construction at Murcia Residences, on the fringe of East Brisbane and Woolloongabba. They have just launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-stanley-residences-woolloongabba-8-trafalgar-street-woolloongabba-qld-4102">The Stanley Residences</a>, in Woolloongabba on Trafalagar Street. They also have Nuage coming soon on the nearby <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/nuage-woolloongabba-14-wellington-road-woolloongabba-qld-4102">Wellington Road</a>.

Joel Robinson

First look: Harridan plans Burke Street transformation beside Boggo Road transport hub

IN BRIEF

<ul>
	<li>
	Just three double-storey Sky Homes sit at the top of The Waterline, each with its own private marina berth and rooftop terrace.
	</li>
	<li>
	Construction on The Waterline is complete, with the first residents expected to move in from mid-October.
	</li>
	<li>
	Sky Homes range from 282 sqm to 367 sqm and are priced from $3.65 million.
	</li>
</ul>

<hr />
Lewis Land has opened the first completed sky home for inspection at Harbour Shores, giving buyers their first opportunity to step inside one of just three double-storey residences crowning The Waterline.

Each sky home comes with its own private marina berth, rooftop terrace and Broadwater views, combining the scale of a larger home with direct access to the boating lifestyle that underpins the wider <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/harbour-shores-biggera-waters-564-oxley-drive-biggera-waters-qld-4216">Harbour Shores</a> masterplan.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=113271 project_image_fid=366708]

Lewis Land Head of Development Michael Long said the inclusion of a berth with every Sky Home had become increasingly valuable as marina access across the Gold Coast tightened.

“Marina berths are becoming increasingly difficult to secure across the Gold Coast, so including one with every Sky Home makes this a genuinely rare offering,” Long said.

“The private 70-berth marina will accommodate boats up to 12 metres in length and is positioned just 2.5 kilometres from the Broadwater, placing the open ocean only 15 minutes away.

“Being able to step out of your home onto your boat is a rare luxury, and it’s something residents here can look forward to when it opens later this year.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=113271 project_image_fid=366709]

The display opening comes as construction completes on The Waterline, with the first residents expected to move in from mid-October.

The three Sky Homes range from 282 sqm to 367 sqm and each feature three bedrooms, three bathrooms, multiple living zones, expansive kitchens with butler's pantries and large balconies taking in the Broadwater outlook.

Each residence also has three secure basement car spaces and additional storage.

“This is the first opportunity the Gold Coast has had to step into Harbour Shores and see, touch and feel what we’re bringing to life here,” Long said.

“There are only three Sky Homes within The Waterline, ranging in size from 282sqm to 367sqm, with each residence featuring three large bedrooms, three bathrooms, multiple living zones, expansive custom-built kitchens with butler’s pantry, and large balconies capturing Broadwater views.”

<img alt="Harbour Shores" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bab65e10-4fab-45e1-92d8-fc56e2ab98ff" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%202.00.16%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=XT8q76LsPkw3cYTsvN3JfFDaPLud90PN" />

Residents of The Waterline will have access to a private pool, along with Harbour Shores' wider collection of amenity including a lagoon pool, social clubhouse, tennis court, gym, yoga facilities and sauna.

Lewis Land partnered with Studio Collective to furnish the completed display, with the interiors designed to demonstrate how the residences could function as permanent homes rather than simply as show apartments.

Studio Collective Director Melissa Park said the surrounding waterways informed the interiors, but in a more restrained way than a traditional coastal scheme.

“We drew inspiration from the canals and coastal surrounds, but our approach was to interpret that subtly through layered materials and a grounded palette of earthy tones, rather than literal coastal references,” Park said.

“We introduced hero moments of green and teal to reference the surrounding waterways, while mirrored elements help reflect natural light.

“The result is a residence that feels elevated yet comfortable, somewhere buyers can genuinely imagine themselves living, entertaining and unwinding.”

Sky Homes are priced from $3.65 million.

Lewis Land is also offering private marina berths with The Residences, its limited collection of three and four-bedroom villas positioned directly along the Harbour Shores waterfront boardwalk.

Three-bedroom villas are priced from $2.99 million, while four-bedroom residences start from $3.19 million.

Harbour Shores is being marketed by Colliers International.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=113271]

Lewis Land opens sky home display as The Waterline completes at Harbour Shores

St Vincent de Paul Society Housing Australia has filed plans for a major mixed-use housing precinct on the southern edge of the North Sydney CBD, adding another significant proposal to a pocket around North Sydn​ey Station that is quickly becoming one of the LGA's busiest development zones.

The State Significant Development Application covers a 5,990 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/1-19-mackenzie-street-lavender-bay-nsw-2060">1-19 MacKenzie Street and 211 Blues Point Road in Lavender Bay</a>, immediately south of Nor​th Sydney Station and between the commercial core and the lower-rise Lavender Bay Heritage Conservation Area.

Designed by Wardle, the proposal would deliver a new residential tower comprising 88 build-to-sell apartments and 19 affordable apartments, alongside a separate co-living building with 57 rooms and a building manager's studio.

It would also see the significant restoration and upgrade of St Francis Xavier Catholic Church, the adaptive reuse of the former school building, new parish facilities, retail, a new public square and around 1,000 sqm of publicly accessible open space.

<img alt="Vinnies North Sydney" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d5dd7f87-a617-463e-b577-17541e01f0e9" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-26%20at%209.10.13%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=4R8TsFN3P_LrrXO2HswTOIrx2blil8lh" />

The project is seeking a concurrent rezoning of the site to R4 High Density Residential and an increase in the maximum building height to allow a tower reaching RL120, or up to 20 storeys. The proposal was progressed through the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority pathway.

The build-to-sell component will be weighted toward larger apartments, with just six one-bedroom apartments compared with 31 two-beds, 43 three-beds and eight four-bedroom residences.

The 19 affordable apartments will comprise two studios, 15 one-bedroom apartments and two two-bedroom apartments, taking the total apartment component to 107 residences before the 58 co-living rooms are included.

<img alt="Vnnies" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7d568ca5-cb90-4e18-96c6-d9795dba0c56" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-26%20at%209.10.05%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=GY2R5M9VtQh0EKy1vajaea19PSLOPuRD" />

Wardle's design for the Vinnies site has sought to negotiate that emerging high-rise context while retaining the lower-scale character of MacKenzie Street and the adjoining heritage conservation area.

The main building adopts a three-storey podium and tower arrangement, with the podium aligned to the ridgeline and front setback of St Francis Xavier Church.&nbsp;Wardle has designed the podium with colonnades, seating, recessed entries and active ground-floor frontages, with sandstone-toned precast concrete and face brick referencing the materiality of the existing church.

The tower then steps back eight metres to the south and six metres to the north before rising in a sculpted form comprising four interlocking quadrants. Wardle has also introduced rounded forms and chamfered corners to reduce the tower's perceived bulk and improve view sharing with neighbouring development sites.

Resident facilities and outdoor areas are planned at the separation between the podium and tower at Level 3, oriented toward Sydney Harbour and the CBD skyline.

The tower itself will feature a glass reinforced concrete facade, with recessed balconies and deep reveals used both to provide shading and privacy and frame views toward the harbour and city. The lower levels take a different architectural approach, using brick and sandstone-toned finishes intended to establish a stronger relationship with St Francis Xavier Church. The Church itself will be conserved and upgraded for its continued use, while the former school building will be adaptively reused as part of the co-living component.

<img alt="Lavendar Bay" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2d4418ad-90aa-4d49-af93-c80b140aea80" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-26%20at%209.09.47%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=Kv4gzbsACaGvZSRuaqcfGC54jEJRXIDJ" />

&nbsp;

The proposal adds to an increasingly concentrated pipeline of residential development around Blue Street, MacKenzie Street and Lavender Bay.

Just west of the site, Central Element lodged plans earlier this year for one of the most significant residential developments proposed in Lavender Bay in recent years.

Central Element's SJB-designed scheme at 64-66 Lavender Street and 3-7 Middlemiss Street would deliver 163 apartments across two towers rising 23 and 32 storeys, replacing five existing apartment buildings containing 32 homes. The project also forms part of the Housing Delivery Authority pathway.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-central-element-reveals-lavender-bay-apartment-plans?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener" target="_blank">First look: Central Element reveals Lavender Bay apartment plans</a>

Immediately around North Sy​dney Station, another two significant proposals have emerged at 5 and 15 Blue Street.

Zurich Australian Insurance Properties is seeking to adaptively reuse its longstanding commercial building at 5 Blue Street, directly above North Sydney Station, rather than demolishing the structure.

Its SSDA proposes converting the building into a 14-storey mixed-use development with 62 apartments and 86 co-living rooms, together with ground-floor retail and a major refurbishment of Blue Street Plaza. The application is currently at the Response to Submissions stage.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-zurich-targets-north-sydney-office-conversion-with-148-unit-proposal-above-metro-station">First look: Zurich targets North Sydney office conversion with 148-unit proposal above Metro station</a>

&nbsp;

First look: Vinnies files for 20-storey Lavender Bay apartment tower as North Sydney housing pocket heats up

When the opportunity arose for South Australian developer Palumbo to return to Kent Town, where it had previously delivered East Park Apartments and the East 
Rundle Apartments, it wasn't one the longstanding developer-builder was going to pass up.

The decision was quickly vindicated, with more than 30 apartments sold within the first month of launching <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/royal-apartments-kent-town-2-8-north-terrace-kent-town-sa-5067">Royal Apartments</a> to the market.

The 206-apartment development, which will bring significant new supply to Adelaide's tightly held eastern city fringe, also gives <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/palumbo">Palumbo</a> the opportunity to bring new life to one of Kent Town's most recognisable watering holes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6109 project_image_fid=376073]

Royal Apartments incorporates the historic Royal Hotel, a venue Palumbo Managing Director Daniel Palumbo said has a longstanding connection with the local community.

"Everyone in the area has history with the Royal Hotel," Palumbo told Apartments.com.au.

"It was quite an active pub and social gathering place for locals. We want to bring it back to its former glory."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6109 project_image_fid=376072]

The wider development will comprise two residential towers alongside the restored hotel, sitting on North Terrace opposite the Adelaide Park Lands.

For Palumbo, the project also marks a return to familiar territory.

The developer completed East Park Apartments next door more than a decade ago and jumped at the opportunity to develop in Kent Town again when the Royal Hotel site became available.

"The opportunity emerged, and we moved to secure the site," Palumbo said.

"We were approached by the previous landowner, who said they had extensive commitments in Sydney and weren't in a position to deliver the project.

"We took over the site and within six months recut the design scheme to be more in keeping with the type of development we want to bring to Adelaide.

"Now we're on the market and those changes have really resonated with local buyers."

That has translated into a strong start to sales, with 33 apartments transacting in the project's first 35 days.

Palumbo said the early purchaser profile had been consistent with the group's traditional focus on owner-occupiers rather than investor-led apartment stock.

"Local owner-occupiers have always been our market," he said.

"There are always some investors, but we've never developed what would be called traditional development stock. Owner-occupiers are very much our market."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6109 project_image_fid=376068]

The buyer mix has been diverse so far, with downsizers and younger professionals both accounting for a significant portion of early sales.

South Australia's current stamp duty settings, which allow&nbsp;eligible homeowners in South Australia aged 60 savings of up to $103,830 on stamp duty when they downsize to a new property valued at up to $2 million,&nbsp;have helped encourage downsizer activity, while younger buyers in their late 20s and early 30s have been attracted to the opportunity to live immediately outside the CBD while still being able to walk into the city.



Location has been a major part of the proposition for both buyer cohorts.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6109 project_image_fid=376075]

Royal Apartments sits on North Terrace directly opposite the Adelaide Park Lands, with residents able to walk through the parklands toward the East End, Rundle Street and Rundle Mall.

Apartments have been positioned to capture views across the parklands, Adelaide skyline, Botanic Gardens and Adelaide Hills.

Palumbo believes the scarcity of developable land along this section of the Park Lands makes the site particularly difficult to replicate.

"There's very few allotments on that side that can be developed," he said.

"If this location was in New York and you were sitting on Central Park, you'd be talking about a $60 million apartments."

Royal Apartments will offer a broad mix of residences, ranging from one-bedroom apartments through to four-bedroom sub-penthouses and penthouses.

Current listings include one-bedroom apartments from $680,000, while larger three and four-bedroom residences are priced around $2.5 million.

Residents will have access to a swimming pool, gym, barbecue and recreation areas, residents' lounge and dining space, and a communal deck.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6109 project_image_fid=376067]

The apartments will feature generous balconies, while secure parking, bicycle storage and storage cages will also be provided.

A porte-cochère-style arrival and drop-off area has also resonated with buyers, particularly those attracted to being able to walk into the CBD during the day while retaining secure vehicle access at home.

Palumbo is acting as developer, architect and builder on Royal Apartments, continuing the vertically integrated model it has used across its South Australian portfolio.

The group was also behind the $150 million Sofitel Adelaide, the 251-room five-star hotel and residential tower which opened in 2021.

Palumbo said Royal's launch had come at an interesting time for the broader Adelaide apartment market.

Buyer confidence had initially been impacted by uncertainty surrounding the Federal Budget and broader economic conditions, but Palumbo believes sentiment is beginning to improve against a backdrop of significant investment flowing into South Australia.

He pointed to increased activity across defence and resources, including Olympic Dam, as potential long-term drivers of the state's economy and housing market.

"Money is starting to flow into Adeliade, significant amounts as Adelaide bucks the trend of the rest of the country.," Palumbo said.

"There's a lot of activity in the economy over the next decade. I think more investment will come into this market."

Early works on Royal Apartments are expected to commence this year, with major construction activity and cranes anticipated on site from early next year.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=6109]

Palumbo's return to Kent Town strikes early chord with buyers

Go-to builder-developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/graya">GRAYA</a> is continuing to bulk out its already impressive and diverse apartment portfolio across South East Queensland. Their latest milestone is securing development approval for Silk, its boutique riverfront apartment development in St Lucia.

The approval clears&nbsp;the way for the team to begin construction planning for the 22-residence project.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/silk-st-lucia-16-18-sandford-street-st-lucia-qld-4067">Silk</a> will rise 15 levels from an 810 sqm site at 16-18 Sandford Street, occupying a prominent bend of the Brisbane River with a prized northern aspect across Orleigh Park toward the Brisbane CBD.

The approved scheme will comprise 16 split-floor and six full-floor residences, continuing GRAYA's move into larger-format apartment developments targeting Brisbane's prestige owner-occupier market.

The project has been designed around the site's broad river frontage and dual-direction views, with GRAYA prioritising larger residences, privacy and outlook over apartment yield.

<img alt="Silk St Lucia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="aa5c2349-f96c-4914-a812-1f2cd6827af8" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-26%20at%208.25.44%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=WY0vEU_7vYjeRJKQHiCwFdMxu8PvFh52" />

GRAYA Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer Rob Gray said the project had been shaped around local homeowners wanting to remain in St Lucia without maintaining a traditional family home.

"St Lucia is one of those suburbs people do not want to leave," Gray said.

"They know the river, the trees, UQ, the golf course, Toowong and Indooroopilly, and that familiarity is hard to replace.

"True riverfront opportunities here are exceptionally scarce. What we have designed at Silk is a way to stay in the suburb people love, with the scale and privacy of a private home and far less to maintain.

"This is not typical apartment product. It is a proper home on the river, and that is exactly what this market has been missing."

The approval comes as new apartment development continues to increase across the St Lucia and neighbouring Toowong corridor, although direct riverfront sites remain considerably more tightly held.

GRAYA Co-founder and Managing Director Andrew Gray said securing the approval had removed a significant element of development risk from Silk.

"Genuine riverfront sites of this quality in St Lucia are not something that comes up regularly," Gray said.

"The approval removes a substantial layer of execution risk, and the location underwrites demand in a way very few inner-city sites can.

"The fundamentals here are as strong as anything we have assessed in Brisbane."

<img alt="Silk St Lucia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d0f3d734-65e1-48e8-8ed3-2e0715ffcdd9" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-26%20at%208.25.56%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=sOLSs_jdHkXLWbBKzRyayf5BfTb2vPsD" />

Silk will see GRAYA return to a stretch of the Brisbane River where it already has recent construction experience. The vertically integrated group recently completed ARC in neighbouring Toowong as builder for developer Spyre, delivering the riverfront project on a constrained site.

GRAYA will take a different role at Silk, controlling the project from design and development through construction and aftercare under its vertically integrated model.

The development will include a gym and resident leisure areas at ground level, integrated with the river's edge.

Silk joins a growing pipeline for GRAYA across Brisbane and the Gold Coast, which includes Enclave, The Gallery, Coral and Ripple.

The developer-builder has also recently lodged plans for its largest project to date, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-silo-19-chester-street-newstead-qld-4006">The Silo</a>, a proposed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/graya-buys-frasers-newstead-site-plans-the-silo-between-james-street-and-gasworks-precincts">$700 million mixed-use development</a> in Brisbane's James Street precinct.

Silk is expected to predominantly target local owner-occupiers and prestige buyers seeking a permanent riverfront home in Brisbane's inner west.

Registrations of interest are now open, with further details on the project and construction program to be released as it progresses.

<hr />
<h2>SILK PROJECT FACTS</h2>

Developer-builder: GRAYA

Project: Silk

Location: 16-18 Sandford Street, St Lucia

Apartments: 22

Built form: 15 levels

Site: 810 sqm riverfront holding

Mix: 16 split-floor and six full-floor residences

Status: Development approved

Next step: Construction planning underway

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152168]

Jessie Richardson

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