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Over 2014, Sydney's median house price eclipsed $800,000, while Melbourne saw more modest growth.
Darwin's median house price is lower now than it was this time last year, and Hobart's has hardly moved at all.
CoreLogic RP Data has released its property price figures for the December 2014 quarter. Property Observer looks at how the close of 2014 compares with the corresponding period at the end of 2013.
<h3>Sydney </h3>
<ul>
<li>Houses</li>
</ul>
Median price in December 2014: $858,000 Median price in December 2013: $775,000
<ul>
<li>Units</li>
</ul>
Median price in December 2014: $615,000 Median price in December 2013: $557,000
<h3>Melbourne</h3>
<ul>
<li>Houses</li>
</ul>
Median price in December 2014: $660,000 Median price in December 2013: $625,000
<ul>
<li>Units</li>
</ul>
Median price in December 2014: $490,000 Median price in December 2013: $481,000
<h3>Brisbane-Gold Coast</h3>
<ul>
<li>Houses</li>
</ul>
Median price in December 2014: $505,000 Median price in December 2013: $479,000
<ul>
<li>Units</li>
</ul>
Median price in December 2014: $371,000 Median price in December 2013: $361,950
<h3>Adelaide</h3>
<ul>
<li>Houses</li>
</ul>
Median price in December 2014: $429,800 Median price in December 2013: $405,000
<ul>
<li>Units</li>
</ul>
Median price in December 2014: $342,000 Median price in December 2013: $325,000
<h3>Perth</h3>
<ul>
<li>Houses</li>
</ul>
Median price in December 2014: $550,000 Median price in December 2013: $537,250
<ul>
<li>Units</li>
</ul>
Median price in December 2014: $440,000 Median price in December 2013: $439,000
<h3>Hobart </h3>
<ul>
<li>Houses</li>
</ul>
Median price in December 2014: $350,000 Median price in December 2013: $350,000
<ul>
<li>Units</li>
</ul>
Median price in December 2014: $270,000 Median price in December 2013: $255,000
<h3>Darwin</h3>
<ul>
<li>Houses</li>
</ul>
Median price in December 2014: $562,000 Median price in December 2013: $595,000
<ul>
<li>Units</li>
</ul>
Median price in December 2014: $530,000 Median price in December 2013: $449,500
<h3>Canberra</h3>
<ul>
<li>Houses</li>
</ul>
Median price in December 2014: $575,000 Median price in December 2013: $570,000
<ul>
<li>Units</li>
</ul>
Median price in December 2014: $403,000 Median price in December 2013: $432,000
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jrichardson-uRX5hFdKfN

Capital city property prices, one year on

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A median priced house in Melbourne cost $660,000 in the December quarter, according to CoreLogic RP Data.
The city's median house price was up 1.8% from the previous month's result, and up 8.4% year-on-year. Melbourne houses are the second most expensive in the country, with Sydney's median house price clearing Melbourne's by almost $200,000, at $858,000.
Property Observer looks to recent sales to see just what $660,000 will buy you in Melbourne.
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/121-purinuan-road-reservoir/Property-Details-sold-residential-7882336" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;">121 Purinuan Road, Reservoir </a></li>
</ul>
 <img src="/images/2015/01/01/1.jpg" alt="">
This three bedroom, corner block home in Melbourne's northern suburbs sold for $659,000 in late November. The house has one bathroom with a spa bath, an open plan living and dining area and a separate lounge room, with hardwood floors throughout. The 847 square metre site includes outdoor entertaining areas and a sizeable backyard.
Price: $659,000
Bedrooms: Three
Drive to CBD: 26 minutes
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/4-ainslie-park-avenue-croydon/Property-Details-sold-residential-7676646" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;">4 Ainslie Park Avenue, Croydon</a></li>
</ul>
<img src="/images/2015/01/01/2.jpg" alt=""> 
A circa 1950s weatherboard house secured $660,000 when sold in October last year. There are three bedrooms, a study and one bathroom, with timber flooring. The house sits on a 836 square metre plot, around 27 kilometres from Melbourne's CBD.
Price: $660,000
Bedrooms: Three
Drive to CBD: 30 minutes
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/milano-court-bundoora/Property-Details-sold-residential-7951782" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;">2 Milano Court, Bundoora</a></li>
</ul>
<img src="/images/2015/01/01/3.jpg" alt="">
Buyers paid $660,000 for this double storey Bundoora home last month. The five bedroom, two bathroom house sits 671 square metres. It also includes a formal lounge and dining area, an open plan living and dining space, a study and an additional living area upstairs.
Price: $660,000
Bedrooms: Five
Drive to CBD: 28 minutes
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-sunshine-118260851" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;">13 Tyler Street, Sunshine</a></li>
</ul>
 <img src="/images/2015/01/01/4.jpg" alt="">
A three bedroom house sold for $660,000 in Melbourne's Western suburbs last November. The weatherboard house has polished timber floors, a garage with a separate workshop, and built in robes in each of the bedrooms. It's set on a 670 square metre block.
Price: $660,000
Bedrooms: Three
Drive to CBD: 26 minutes
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/real-estate/melbourne/melbourne-east/mulgrave/houses-for-sale/" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;">35 Carson Street, Mulgrave</a></li>
</ul>
 <img src="/images/2015/01/01/5.jpg" alt="">
On the other side of town, this three bedroom house sold for $656,000. The home has three bathrooms, a timber kitchen and inbuilt cabinetry in the family room. The 680 square metre plot includes an outdoor entertaining space with a built in barbecue and a pool with a bungalow and pool storage room.
Price: $656,000
Bedrooms: Three
Drive to CBD: 680 square metres
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What can you get for Melbourne's median house price?

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According to the chief executive of real estate agency Raine &amp; Horne, a drop in interest rates would likely boost the performance of Perth's housing market.
In the agency's end of 2014 wrap, Angus Raine said: "The Perth market is highly correlated to the commodities sector, so any assistance from the Reserve Bank will help underpin real estate activity in 2015."
Raine &amp; Horne Rockingham Beach principal Paul Curran said the prospect of a rate change would particularly affect the south-western suburbs.
"Interest rate cuts will always make a difference in first home owner belt suburbs such as Rockingham, Safety Bay, Baldivis and Warnbro, where it's possible to secure a four bedroom, two bathroom home for between $380,000 and $450,000," said Curran.
In the city's northern region, the Rain &amp; Horne North Perth Principal Larry Gallagher said exposure to commodity prices has weakened conditions in the investment property market.
"However, there is cause for optimism with the falling Australian dollar sure to help attract more foreign interest in the Perth real estate market," Gallagher said.
"The falling dollar might also keep more Australians at home this Christmas holiday season, with Western Australia sure to be a major beneficiary. A spike in tourism numbers often translates to more interstate investors buying Perth real estate."
Meanwhile, the agency claims increased calls to review negative gearing policy have impacted interest in the investor-dominated Mandurah market. Petter Vetten, principal at Raine &amp; Horne Mandurah, called "ongoing attacks on negative gearing" "far from helpful".
"The Mandurah market was going gangbusters up until about three weeks ago when the calls for the government to review negative gearing hit a crescendo," said Vetten.
"Investor enquiries have since hit the wall following last week's release of the Financial System Inquiry Report, which recommended reducing the benefits of negative gearing."
However, he believes a potential rate cut could encourage more first time bud
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Potential rate cut will boost commodity-driven Perth market: Raine & Horne

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Lakemba is located 15 kilometres south-west of Sydney's CBD, in the Canterbury local council area.
It's bordered by Wiley Park to the west and Belmore to the east. Lakemba railway station, in the centre of the suburb, is serviced by the Bankstown line. The 450 bus also delivers residents to Burwood, through Roselands and Strathfield and to Hurstville, via Roselands.
This year, as buyers increasingly focussed on Sydney's middle ring western suburbs to find affordable properties, Domain Group senior economist Andrew Wilson says Lakemba saw strong results.
"The numbers look very good for Lakemba," says Wilson. Australian Property Monitors recorded a median house price of $750,000 in Lakemba for the six months to November, up from $645,000 in the previous period.
The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-lakemba-118155211" target="_blank">three bedroom house</a> below sold for $750,000 in late November. The brick house on a 534 square metre plot had been held by the vendors for 23 years. They paid $149,000 for the house in 1991.
<img src="/images/2014/12/19/house.jpg" alt="">
In the six months to November 2014, median unit values increased from $337,750 to $360,000, according to Australian Property Monitors.
"That's very strong growth," he says. Wilson predicts the strong growth will continue next year, but will eventually slow.
"Sydney's still set to be the best performer of all the capitals next year. There's still a lot of energy in the market.
"Generally, Sydney house price growth is declining, from double figures over the last two years, per year.  It's gone from around 15% per year to 11%, and next year will probably see around 7% growth.
"Most suburbs will move in line with that. Lakemba, particularly in units, still has a close to double figure growth left in it," he explains.
According to Wilson, units in Lakemba are still in a range generally considered to be affordable, particularly given the suburb's location and local amenities.
A <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-unit-nsw-lakemba-117981363" target="_blank">two bedroom apartment</a> in the eight-unit complex pictured below sold for $358,000 in early December. The elevated ground floor unit with a registered car space was bought by the vendor just a year and a half ago, for $260,000. In that time, after receiving fresh floorboards and new carpet in the bedrooms, its value has increased by 37.7%.
<img src="/images/2014/12/19/unit.jpg" alt="">
"Inner middle ring suburbs in Sydney always attract buyers, and it's all part of that search for more affordable options," says Wilson.
"The area is well serviced by transport and infrastructure, and of course, the NSW economy is doing very well.
The area's main retail strip is along Haldon Street, with a variety of stores and restaurants. There are a number of schools in the area, including Lakemba Public School, Hampden Park Public School and Holy Spirit College.
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, the Lakemba - Wiley Park area had a population of 27,228 as of 2012. 76% of Lakemba - Wiley Park residents spoke a language other than english at home in 2011.
In 2011, labourers made up the largest proportion of wage earners in the Lakemba and Wiley Park area, accounting for 19.5% of the area's paid workers. 15.0% of the area's wage earners described themselves as professionals, and technicians and trades workers made up 12.7% of wages earners.
Wilson explains that those who cannot afford Sydney's inner western suburbs are increasingly considering properties in Canterbury, Bankstown or Croydon Park. He expects the majority of buyers in the area are and will continue to be owner occupiers, given its affordability.
After a strong 2014, Wilson predicts that in 2015, Lakemba is "still set to be a popular suburb in a moderating market".
You might also want to read: Why I wouldn't buy an old home Sydney's western suburbs. 
Photo of Halden Street, Lakemba courtesy of Blu3d/<a class="mw-mmv-license" href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;">CC BY-SA 3.0</a>.
 
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Suburb spotlight: Lakemba presents affordable options for owner occupiers

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A new warehouse conversion is set to bring 10 residences to the market in Petersham.
<a href="https://www.theribbonfactory.com.au/" target="_blank">The Ribbon Factory</a>, developed by Orbis and designed by Orbis and Grennan Architecture, is expected to finish in 2016.
The warehouse was constructed in 1910. It was most recently the home of Curry Ribbons, which from 1947 made custom ribbons at the site.
The three level building will comprise six loft apartments and four single level apartments, featuring vaulted ceilings and timber trusses. The oregon trusses, timber joists and ironbark beams are intended to echo the warehouse's heritage.
Bathrooms will feature a combination of gloss subway and hexagonal mosaic tiles and matte grey floor tiles.
The two one level, one bedroom apartments, with 40-54 square metres of internal floor space, will be priced from $550,000. The six one bedroom loft residences start from $620,000, or $695,000 with parking. They have 57-61 square metres of internal space and are all north facing.
The two bedroom apartments, with 83-90 square metres of internal space, are priced from $910,000. Strata levies range from $540 per quarter to $940 per quarter.
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Petersham's Ribbon Factory conversion coming to market

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A Hills District home on five acres has secured the highest sale of last week, according to CoreLogic RP Data.
Petalinda, selling for $9 million, is more than double the price of the next most expensive house of the week, a $4,065,000 Brighton home. The home also set a<a href="/news/glenhavens-petalinda-sets-9-million-hills-district-record"> new record price for the suburb</a>.
The week's list was dominated by Sydney homes, with just two Melbourne offerings making the top 10.
CoreLogic RP Data's top 10 sales of the week ending 14 December
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-glenhaven-118430299" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-one.jpg" alt="">6 Gilmour Close, Glenhaven, NSW</a>
<img src="/images/2014/12/16/1.jpg" alt="">
Petalinda is a six bedroom house set on five acres in the Hills District, sold through Merc Real Estate Castle Hill.
The estate includes a wine tasting cellar, a commercial grade bar, an indoor pool, a 14 person sauna, a spa, gymnasium, and a tennis court. It's not just humans who are well taken care of at Petalinda – the estate includes an aviary and a Koi Carp fish pond.
The vendors paid $5.3 million for Petalinda just three years ago.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-brighton-118510583" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-two.jpg" alt="">11a Dendy Street Brighton Vic 3186</a>
<img src="/images/2014/12/16/2.jpg" alt="">
This three level Brighton home sold for $4,065,000 through Hodges Real Estate Brighton. The five bedroom, three bathroom house has a six car garage basement. T
he house includes formal living and dining areas, a north facing family area and a lounge area. There is also a heated pool and spa on the 706 square metre plot. The vendors have held the home for 14 years, paying $1,775,000 in 2000.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-moonee+ponds-117594311" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-three.jpg" alt="">38 Ardmillan Road, Moonee Ponds, Vic</a>
<img src="/images/2014/12/16/3.jpg" alt="">
Nelson Alexander Essendon sold this six bedroom, four bathroom house for $3.95 million. The brick Victorian house sits on 2,060 square metres, with an in-ground pool and a tennis court.
Vendors paid $2.6 million for the house in February 2005.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-unit-nsw-glebe-118492811" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-four.jpg" alt="">16/501 Glebe Point Road, Glebe, NSW</a>
<img src="/images/2014/12/16/4.jpg" alt="">
Buyers paid $3.66 million for this 263 square metre apartment in the Pavillions on the Bay complex. The residence was designed by Tonkin Zulaikha Greer architects (who are behind the award winning National Arboretum Canberra).
The apartment has three bedrooms and three bathrooms. The master suite includes a custom-designed dressing room and an en suite with bath.
In four years, the property's price has increased by $660,000.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-nsw-woollahra-104930631" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-five.jpg" alt="">2/333 Edgecliff Road, Woollahra, NSW</a>
<img src="/images/2014/12/16/5.jpg" alt="">
This whole floor apartment sold for $3.56 million through Ray White Double Bay. The apartment is located in Cullen House, a two-apartment art deco building designed in 1936 by a protégé of Professor Leslie Wilkinson. It has four bedrooms and three bathrooms, with a northeast facing colonnaded terrace.
The property was last traded in June 2008 for $2.9 million.
This article continues on the next page. Please click below.
 
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
<a href="https://www.domain.com.au/property/sold/apartment-unit-flat/nsw/millers-point/?adid=2011581948" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-six.jpg" alt="">19/155 Kent Street, Millers Point, NSW</a>
<img src="/images/2014/12/16/6.jpg" alt="">
Another Sydney whole-floor apartment, this home sold for a substantial sum. While the price remains undisclosed, Property Observer is advised that it makes sixth place on our list.
The residence in The Georgia, designed by Ercole Palazzetti has three bedrooms and two bathrooms, with views to the harbour and westward to the Blue Mountains. With a radial floorplan, the apartment has a private entertaining terrace and a loggia.
It last sold in 2007 for $3.4 million.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-queens+park-118249395" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-seven.jpg" alt="">142 Denison Street, Queens Park, NSW</a>
<img src="/images/2014/12/16/7.jpg" alt="">
This six bedroom, four bathroom house sold for $3.5 million through Di Jones Real Estate. The home, near Bondi Junction, is set over two levels.
It has underfloor heating, with Bendonia tiled floors throughout the multiple living and dining areas. The vendors purchased the property 10 years ago for $1.58 million.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-double+bay-118217687" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-eight.jpg" alt="">14 Pearce Street, Double Bay, NSW</a>
 <img src="/images/2014/12/16/8.jpg" alt="">
A newly completed house designed by Tribe Studio sold last week for $3.41 million through BradfieldCleary Double Bay. The four bedroom, two bathroom house has an open plan interior that opens to the outdoor living space. Upstairs, the master suite has a balcony overlooking the backyard.
Tribe Studio's work has been largely published. Vendors purchased the property, prior to the construction of the current house, for $2.13 million.
<a href="https://www.domain.com.au/property/sold/house/nsw/north-bondi/?adid=2011581929" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-nine.jpg" alt="">60 Brighton Boulevard, North Bondi, NSW</a>
<img src="/images/2014/12/16/9.jpg" alt="">
Raine &amp; Horne Double Bay secured $3.28 million for vendors at the sale of this North Bondi home. All five bedrooms have built in robes, while the master bedroom also has a private balcony and en suite.
The open plan living area opens to the rear north facing courtyard through bi-fold doors. Vendors paid $3.1 million for the house in March 2011.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-st+ives-118547479" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-ten.jpg" alt="">39 Bundabah Avenue, St Ives, NSW</a>
<img src="/images/2014/12/16/10.jpg" alt="">
The 10th most expensive home to sell last week was a four bedroom, four bathroom house in St Ives. It sold for $2.9 million through Chadwick Real Estate St Ives.
The two storey brick residence, situated on 1,609 square metres, has a formal lounge with gas log fire, a separate dining room, an informal meals area and living room, and outdoor entertaining area. There is also an in-ground saltwater pool with spa.
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Sydney's prestige market finishes the year on a high: Top 10 sales of the week

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At $825,000, a median priced Sydney house is almost $200,000 more expensive than one in Melbourne, according to CoreLogic.
It’s more than double the median price of a Hobart home, and almost $300,000 more than a typical house in Perth.
Property Observer looks at recent sales to see just how far $825,000 will go in some of Australia’s other capital cities. 
<h3>Sydney:</h3>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-the+ponds-118298403" target="_blank">69 Mosaic Avenue, The Ponds, NSW</a>
<img src="/images/2014/12/15/1.jpg" alt="">
This four bedroom single level home sold for $820,000. The house with a backyard and double garage and ducted air conditioning is located in The Ponds, 40 kilometres north-west of the Sydney CBD.
<ul>
<li>Price: $820,000</li>
<li>Bedrooms: Four</li>
<li>Land size: 450 square metres</li>
<li>Drive to CBD: 40 minutes</li>
</ul>
<h3>Melbourne:</h3>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-heidelberg-118217635" target="_blank">5 Halifax Avenue, Heidelberg, Vic</a>
<img src="/images/2014/12/15/2.jpg" alt="">
A four bedroom house located in the north-eastern Melbourne suburb of Heidelberg sold for $825,000 last month. However, this one’s much closer to the city than The Ponds’ offering around 11 kilometres from the CBD. 
<ul>
<li>Price: $825,000</li>
<li>Bedrooms: Four</li>
<li>Land size: 613 square metres</li>
<li>Drive to CBD: 30 minutes</li>
</ul>
<h3>Brisbane:</h3>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-taringa-118083059" target="_blank">46 Swann Road, Taringa, Qld</a>
<img src="/images/2014/12/15/3.jpg" alt="">
This Queenslander has four bedrooms and three bathrooms. One bedroom and one bathroom are located downstairs, which has separate access and can act as a granny flat. The home sold for $24,000 less than Sydney’s house price, and is situated around 7 kilometres from the CBD.
<ul>
<li>Price: $801,000</li>
<li>Bedrooms: Four</li>
<li>Land size: 511 square metres</li>
<li>Drive to CBD: 12 minutes</li>
</ul>
<h3>Hobart:</h3>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-tas-sandy+bay-116898179" target="_blank">5 Duke Street, Sandy Bay, Tas</a>
<img src="/images/2014/12/15/4.jpg" alt="">
A five bedroom house in Australia’s cheapest capital city sold for $820,000 earlier this year. The circa 1920 house has two levels and is located just outside of Hobart’s CBD.
<ul>
<li>Price: $820,000</li>
<li>Bedrooms: Five</li>
<li>Land size: 734 square metres</li>
<li>Drive to CBD: Seven minutes</li>
</ul>
<h3>Perth:</h3>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-wa-lesmurdie-117846895" target="_blank">27 Rootes Road, Lesmurdie, WA</a>
<img src="/images/2014/12/15/5.jpg" alt="">
Buyers paid $825,000 for this four bedroom, two bathroom house in Lesmurdie. The house is set on a 1,803 square metre block, with a large patio and in ground pool. It’s located in Perth’s eastern suburbs, around 26 kilometres from the CBD.
<ul>
<li>Price: $825,000</li>
<li>Bedrooms: Four</li>
<li>Land size: 1,803 square metres</li>
<li>Drive to CBD: 35 minutes</li>
</ul>
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What will Sydney’s median house price buy you around the country?

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A new project from a network of organisations wants to help Australians cut their energy bills - to $0.
The Energy Freedom alliance provides home owners with information about how to achieve net zero energy emissions.
A number of the partner businesses, which include Cherry LED and Energy Matters Solar, are also offering discounts and rewards as part of the Energy Freedom project. The venture is headed by Beyond Zero Emissions, a subscriber funded not-for-profit which works with the University of Melbourne's Energy Research Institute.
The organisation developed the Zero Carbon Australia Buildings Plan, a nationwide plan to retrofit Australia's homes and, which demonstrates how existing buildings can reach zero emissions within 10 years.
Dr Stephen Bygrave, Beyond Zero Emissions chief executive said: "Energy Freedom is providing information to householders who want a smart renovation that will save them money on energy bills, and can achieve a high performing home that everyone wants to have."
Energy Freedom estimates the average Australian home owner spends about $2,250 per year on household energy costs.
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Partnership promises to help Australian households move to zero emissions

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A real estate agency in Gosnells landed in court after employing a sales representative with a lapsed registration.
Attree Real Estate was fined $2,500 for employing and paying commissions to the unregistered employee, even though they had been informed that the sales representative's registration was not current.
For 10 months, between August 2012 and May 2013, the employee received commissions continued to work as a sales representative at Atree Real Estate. The agency was ordered by the court to pay $1,500 for employing an unregistered sales representative and $1,100 for the payment of sales commissions.
In a separate case in late November, the same employee was fined $500 and ordered to pay costs of $588 for acting as a real estate sales representative without being registered. The employee admitted that they had been reminded multiple times by Consumer Protection to renew their registration.
Commissioner for Consumer Protection Anne Driscoll said real estate agents are legally obliged to ensure their sales representatives were registered.
"The licensing and registration system is designed to maintain high standards of conduct within the WA real estate industry and provide protection for consumers who place a great deal of trust in agents and their sales representatives to handle one of their biggest assets," said Driscoll.
"Agents who employ unregistered sales representatives and sales representatives who fail to renew their registrations but continue to operate are breaking the law and will face prosecution with the risk of being fined as well as having their professional reputation tarnished."
Last week, a different Western Australian agency and its employee were also fined after Consumer Protection investigations. Sand Dollar WA Pty Ltd, trading as Harcourts Rockingham, was fined $500 after employing a sales representative for 22 months after their registration had lapsed.
The employee was also fined $500.
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Western Australian agency fined for unregistered employee

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Queensland, Tasmania and the Northern Territory are buyer's markets, while Victorian sellers hold the balance of power, according to the latest Commonwealth Bank and CoreLogic RP Data Home Buyers Index.
Overall, the report showed property market conditions across Australia are moving into balance, favouring buyers and sellers equally. However, within each state, city or region, there are pronounced variances.
The Home Buyers Index compares the ratio of properties for sale with the Commonwealth Bank's housing loans.
The results from the quarter to October 2014 show that Victoria was the only state that moved from a balanced market in July 2014 to a seller's market in October 2014.
Of the capital cities, Melbourne and Sydney's property markets favour sellers. However, national research director of CoreLogic RP Data Tim Lawless said the quarterly results showed that Australia's property markets were largely balanced.
"Conditions over the past three months have generally become more balanced between buyers and sellers, and the October report shows that even Sydney has started to balance out, although it remains a seller's market," Lawless said.
For those seeking a property in a capital city, Brisbane and Hobart's markets are tipped in buyers' favour.
According to Lyn Cobley, executive general manager, retail products and third party banking, at Commonwealth Bank, in the three months to October, capital city markets were either balanced or seller's markets. She cautioned metropolitan home buyers to "ensure they make rational purchasing decisions in line with their budget".
"There are more promising opportunities for home buyers looking to purchase a property in the regional and coastal areas of Queensland, the Northern Territory and Tasmania. Buyers in these regions may be able to drive a better deal on sale negotiations," said Cobley.
The top five buyer's markets
<ol>
<li>Eyre, SA</li>
<li>Wide Bay-Burnett, QLD</li>
<li>Lower Great Southern, WA</li>
<li>Central West, QLD</li>
<li>Far West, NSW</li>
</ol>
The top five seller's markets
<ol>
<li>Central Highlands, VIC</li>
<li>Sydney, NSW</li>
<li>Melbourne, VIC</li>
<li>Loddon, VIC</li>
<li>Ovens-Murray, VIC</li>
</ol>
Source: Commonwealth Bank and CoreLogic RP Data Home Buyers Index
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The top five buyer's and seller's markets in Australia: Commonwealth Bank/CoreLogic

National diversified developer Fortis has officially launched Crest &amp; Walker, its latest Brisbane apartment development, with construction now underway on the 20-storey Newstead project.

Award-winning builder BINAH has commenced construction on the Bureau^Proberts-designed building, which will deliver a limited collection of 65 two and three-bedroom apartments on Kyabra Street.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373556]

The project marks Fortis' fourth active residential development in Brisbane, following River House, which is nearing completion, alongside projects in New Farm and Hamilton as the national developer continues to expand its South East Queensland pipeline.

Fortis General Manager – Development Queensland Dan Boman said Crest &amp; Walker reflects the developer's long-term commitment to delivering design-led residential projects in Brisbane's established inner-city suburbs.

"We're proud to be strengthening our presence in Brisbane with Crest &amp; Walker, particularly in such a sought-after lifestyle destination as Newstead," Boman said.

"Every Fortis project is shaped by its context, and we approach each one with the respect and care it deserves.

"Our focus is always on creating places that feel connected to their neighbourhood and elevate the everyday experience for residents. Newstead continues to evolve as one of Brisbane's most sought-after urban communities, and Crest &amp; Walker reflects our ambition to contribute meaningfully to that story."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373559]

Positioned between Gasworks Plaza and James Street, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/crest-walker-newstead-12-kyabra-street-newstead-qld-4006">Crest &amp; Walker</a> has been designed as a boutique residential address offering privacy and generous living spaces within one of Brisbane's most established lifestyle precincts.

The building features a contemporary brick podium softened by integrated landscaping, while the upper levels are characterised by restrained architecture and enduring materiality. Interiors have been designed to maximise natural light, acoustic performance and long-term liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373583]

Residences comprise spacious two and three-bedroom floorplans, with two-bedroom apartments priced from $1.55 million and three-bedroom, half-floor residences from $3.95 million.

Residents will have access to a wellness-focused rooftop featuring a swimming pool, sauna, steam room, landscaped dining spaces and outdoor lounge areas overlooking Newstead and the Brisbane CBD.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373571]

Sales are being managed by Slaite Projects, with Fortis expecting strong demand from owner-occupiers seeking a high-quality, design-focused apartment in one of Brisbane's most tightly held inner-city suburbs.

Completion of Crest &amp; Walker is slated for late 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=145922]

Joel Robinson

Fortis expands Brisbane pipeline with launch of Crest & Walker in Newstead

The enormity of delivering a true skyscraper in Australia's new development market is often overlooked.

It has taken the best part of a decade since plans for Chevron One were first unveiled, but the 52-storey tower is now complete, with residents collecting their keys and moving into what has become one of the Gold Coast's most recognisable new landmarks.

Rising 127 metres above Chevron Island, Chevron One stands almost twice as high as any other building on the island. Its scale places it alongside the trio of towers at Jewel, arguably the last truly significant addition to the central Gold Coast skyline when they were completed around six years ago.

While there are several developments underway around a similar height to Chevron One, they are more concentrated within clusters of the highest towers in the city. The fact Chevron One sits within a developing precinct, looking back at the other high-rise developments in Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach, makes it a different proposition altogether. It will certainly become a reference point on the Gold Coast skyline.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=68833]

Developer Bensons Property Group is behind the 52-storey tower, which has just shy of 250 apartments, along with an exhaustive list of resident amenity spread across what is the largest development site ever assembled on Chevron Island.

The tower has been the talk of the town for years, says Ray White Projects Gold Coast agent Caitlin Rosenboom, who is selling the remaining apartments.

"People have been watching Chevron One go up for years," Rosenboom says, adding that many prospective buyers have been surprised by the scale of the views once they step inside.

"It's only when they walk through a completed apartment that they truly understand the position of the building," Rosenboom says.

"The views are jaw-dropping. Whether you're looking east over the ocean, across Surfers Paradise, along the river systems or out to the hinterland, every level offers something different but equally impressive."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=360215]

One of Chevron One's defining advantages is its location on the eastern side of Chevron Island on Stanhill Drive, a position which protects the views forever.

"There's only one row of houses between Chevron One and the water, and the height restrictions along the river means views from Chevron One can never be built out,"&nbsp;Rosenboom says.

While new apartment developments continue to emerge across the Gold Coast, Rosenboom says opportunities to secure a completed apartment with this level of outlook are becoming increasingly rare.

"The size of the site is something that would be incredibly difficult to replicate today," she says.

"That's allowed Chevron One to deliver the sort of amenity, open space and resident facilities that very few projects can offer. There are not many completed apartment buildings on the Gold Coast right now that can compete with the combination of scale, quality and amenity."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=68839]

There's around 2,000 sqm of amenity solely for the use of residents of Chevron One. Club One features a uniquely shaped swimming pool that mirrors the footprint of the building itself, set within a extensively landscaped gardens. There's also an indoor pool and spa, a fully equipped gym with a Pilates room, a yoga garden, a bookable private dining area and lounge that can host up to 30 people, and a 24-hour concierge service.

As for the buyers, Rosenboom is fielding enquiry from everywhere: Sydneysiders and Melburnians looking at the new and off-the-plan market following the changes in the Federal Budget, as well as those looking to relocate, through to South East Queenslanders seeking either a permanent home or a weekender bolthole.

"The Gold Coast lifestyle continues to resonate with people relocating from the southern states, and when they see the views and the quality of what's been delivered at Chevron One, it becomes very easy for them to understand the appeal," Rosenboom says.

A diverse mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments remain available, with each offering "something a little different", be it the orientation and views, configuration, or level, to suit a wide variety of buyers.

The remaining apartments are ready to inspect in person, by appointment.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=6515]

A decade in the making: Residents to move into Chevron One as construction wraps up

A general rule of thumb in new apartment developments is that the penthouses get the rooftop.

It's a formula that's become commonplace across Australia's apartment market. Residents might have access to a pool, gym or barbecue facilities on a dedicated lower level, but the most desirable outdoor spaces are typically reserved for the highest-priced homes at the top of the building.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sherpa-property-group">Sherpa Property Group</a> has taken the opposite approach.

Rather than dedicating the rooftop to a handful of buyers, the Gold Coast developer has made it the centrepiece of its Flourish collection, creating expansive shared spaces from the best vantage point in the building.

The philosophy has reached its most ambitious expression at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-soleira-palm-beach-1150-1160-gold-coast-highway-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Soleira</a> in Palm Beach, where two rooftop precincts connected by a skybridge will deliver one of the most extensive lifestyle offerings seen in a residential apartment project on the Gold Coast.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=374053]

"We're seeing a clear move toward developments that offer more than just an apartment," Sherpa Group founder Christie Leet said.

"People want spaces that support how they actually live, whether that's working from home, staying active, or spending time with family and friends.

"That's where amenity becomes critical. It's not just about what's included, but how those spaces are designed to be used every day."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=374052]

The breadth of amenity has already attracted buyers across multiple demographics. Younger first home buyers have been drawn to Soleira's one-bedroom apartments, a product rarely delivered in Palm Beach, while families have responded to practical inclusions such as the shallow children's pool adjoining the main lap pool and the extensive communal recreation areas.

Instead of a single rooftop, Soleira delivers two distinct lifestyle zones.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=372547]

The southern rooftop has been dedicated to wellness, featuring a gym, yoga and Pilates studio, work-from-home facilities, a wellness centre, spa, and hot and cold plunge pools.

The northern rooftop focuses on recreation and entertaining, incorporating a heated resort-style pool, private dining rooms, pizza ovens, barbecues, a golf simulator, children's recreation areas, and what is expected to be the Gold Coast's first rooftop basketball court, which will also double as a squash court.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=374054]

Beyond the rooftops, Soleira will introduce 1,500 sqm of curated retail beneath the towers, creating one of Palm Beach's first genuinely mixed-use lifestyle precincts where cafés, restaurants and convenience retail become part of residents' everyday lives.

Sherpa has also retained management rights across the development, allowing it to oversee the long-term operation of the building through a 24-hour concierge model. The developer is also exploring additional revenue streams within the precinct aimed at helping offset ongoing body corporate costs for residents.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=370962]

While Soleira is the largest project Sherpa has delivered, the rooftop-first philosophy has been evolving for several years.

It began with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/amargo-6-12-sixth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Amargo</a>, the first project released under the Flourish brand. Rather than competing at the ultra-luxury end of the market with oversized half-floor and full-floor residences, Sherpa focused on creating lifestyle-driven apartments supported by resort-style shared spaces.

Amargo introduced more than 800 sqm of rooftop amenity, combining wellness facilities, heated pools, entertaining areas, cabanas, pizza ovens and private dining spaces into what was designed as an extension of residents' homes rather than a facility used only occasionally.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146527 project_image_fid=366550]

That approach continued with Flourish Oasis, where the same amenity-led philosophy was refined into a more boutique development. Strong demand from Sherpa's growing VIP database saw much of the project sold before it reached the broader market, reinforcing buyer appetite for apartment communities centred around shared lifestyle experiences.

Flourish Amargo is slated for completion mid-way-through next year, with Oasis to be delivered by late 2027. Flourish Soleira is expected to complete in 2030.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150017]

Sherpa takes amenity to the sky as Flourish Soleira captures booming Palm Beach demand

As apartment living continues to evolve across Sydney's growth corridors, the quality and distribution of shared spaces is increasingly shaping how residents experience home. Rather than functioning as add-ons, amenities are being embedded into the daily rhythm of a building, supporting everything from quiet retreat to social interaction, often within a single vertical community.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/aeris-melrose-park-nursery-street-melrose-park-nsw-2114">Aeris</a> in Melrose Park, this approach is resolved through a layered amenity offering that unfolds from ground level through to its upper podium. Developed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sekisui-house-australia">Sekisui House Australia</a> in partnership with Hankyu Hanshin Properties, the project introduces 468 apartments across two towers and a mid-rise building, positioned at the highest point of the broader masterplan.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=426 project_image_fid=359199]

The amenity experience begins at street level, where two courtyards sit within a landscaped setting that connects residents to the wider network of parks and green spaces. These green spaces are not isolated pockets but part of a wider pedestrian network that links Aeris to the surrounding <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/melrose-park-nsw-2114">Melrose Park</a> precinct, including Central Park, future schools, and the Town Centre opening in July 2026. The result is a transition that moves from public to private without abrupt boundaries, allowing residents to pass through shaded, tree-lined environments before reaching the building itself.

Moving upward, the focus shifts to the level five podium, where the primary communal facilities are concentrated. This space brings together a 16-metre swimming pool, outdoor seating areas, and a communal BBQ zone arranged to take advantage of elevated outlooks. Seating is positioned beneath pergolas, creating pockets of shade that extend the usability of the space throughout the day. The pool edge aligns with views toward the wider district, reinforcing the sense of elevation that defines the project’s positioning.

In the adjacent building, this is complemented by quieter, more contemplative spaces, including an outdoor cinema set within the same level. Positioned to operate primarily in the evening, it introduces a different tempo to the shared environment, shifting from daytime activity to after-hours use without requiring separate zones.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=426 project_image_fid=360299]

The podium also accommodates an intimate private resident gym. Located on the lower levels, it gives residents convenient access to fitness facilities without leaving the building.

Above, the elevated podium sky deck extends the amenity offering, providing additional open-air spaces with elevated outlooks across the surrounding landscape. While more restrained in program, this upper level reinforces the project’s vertical progression, from ground-level greenery to elevated outlook, allowing residents to move between distinct spatial conditions within a single address.

This distribution of amenities reflects a deliberate response to how residents use space across the day. Sekisui House Australia Sales and Marketing Director Peter Kalaf points to the role these shared areas play in shaping buyer demand. Aeris has been conceived as more than a collection of apartments, with the podium pool, gym and outdoor cinema forming part of a broader lifestyle offering that extends the home beyond each individual residence.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=426 project_image_fid=360300]

What distinguishes Aeris is not the inclusion of these elements individually, but how they are arranged in relation to one another. Active, social, and passive spaces are layered vertically rather than separated, allowing residents to choose between them without leaving the building or moving far from their apartment. This proximity supports both routine use, such as a morning swim or evening workout, and more occasional gatherings, whether around the BBQ area or within the cinema setting.

The amenity design also sits within a broader framework of connectivity across Melrose Park. The Melrose Park Town Centre, anchored by Coles and Dan Murphys, features a mix of retail, dining, health and lifestyle offerings, bringing everyday convenience closer to residents. By the end of the year, more than five hectares of parks and open space, equivalent to around seven football fields of green space on residents' doorstep, will further enhance the precinct, allowing the internal facilities at Aeris to operate as an extension of the wider neighbourhood rather than a substitute for it.

Construction at Aeris continues to gather momentum, with ground floor slabs expected to be completed in late 2026 before the first sections of the buildings begin to rise above ground.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=426]

Elevated amenity anchors daily life at Aeris, Melrose Park

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]

Jessie Richardson

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