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Is social media the next marketing channel for properties?
Last week, Property Observer reported that an apartment was sold by Raine &amp; Horne Terrigal/Avoca after a buyer saw the property on the <a href="/news/like-social-media-marketing-secures-sale">agency's Facebook page</a>.
After making contact via Facebook, the buyer then met with the agents and negotiated a purchase. The agency continues to garner interests via the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/raineandhorne" target="_blank">page</a>.
<img src="/images/2014/11/12/Picture%204.png" alt="">
Selling agent Cameron Clayton said e-mail was now considered "old fashioned", with buyers preferring "faster, more contemporary platforms such as Facebook".
It seems many agencies agree, using Facebook and Twitter to market their sales listings.
Melbourne agency Marshall White frequently posts its listings on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MarshallWhiteRE/timeline" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, averaging a post every week day. The company has 8,746 "likes" on its page, with plenty of interaction between the agency, property fans and potential buyers taking place.
<img src="/images/2014/11/12/Picture%203.png" alt="">
A listing may attract as many as 60 odd likes – increasing the chance it will appear on the news feeds of buyers who don't subscribe to Marshall White's updates or spend their time scouring listing websites.
<img src="/images/2014/11/12/Picture%202.png" alt="">
Marshall White also frequently creates unique websites for the properties it is marketing – for example, 373 Howe Parade, Port Melbourne's listing is at the relatively easy-to-remember <a href="https://373howeparade-portmelbourne.com">www.373howeparade-portmelbourne.com</a>.
The company and many others are also active on photo sharing platform Instagram, Pinterest and Twitter. Using the social media platforms allows agencies to increase the number of people exposed to each listing, casting a wider net for buyers than a traditional online listing might do.
The interactive nature of social media also allows agents (or their social media managers) to quickly respond to queries from their followers. However, some take an even more proactive approach, creating unique Twitter handles for properties.
Property Observer's editor at large Jonathan Chancellor once found himself followed on Twitter by a humble weatherboard home, <a href="/news/tweeting-over-the-humble-white-picket-fence-17banksiastreet-highlights-ever-expanding-digital-era">@17BanksiaStreet</a>.
While social media marketing can be a cost effective way of extending the reach of your marketing campaign, its true value is still questionable. Certainly not every Australian has a Twitter account. Twitter says there are <a href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/technology/social-media/43110-2-8-million-twitter-users-in-australia-but-how-many-are-seeing-the-ads" target="_blank">2.8 million Australian accounts</a>, but the figure doesn't shed any light on how many unique users there are, with some holding multiple accounts (and many accounts unused).
It is harder still to determine whether those viewing the listings posted on social media have any intention of buying a house. When advertising on a listing website, agents have a relatively good idea of who is viewing the listings – generally, people who have searched for properties in that particular area, in that particular price bracket.
While Sean Hutchison's interest in Marshall White's Middle Park listing may be genuine, there will be many others on social media who are interior enthusiasts, buyers in different price brackets or simply uninterested.
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jrichardson-uRX5hFdKfN

Facebook helped sell this property: Can it work for you?

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The University of Technology Tower now has some competition for the most talked about building on campus.
But while brutalist tower usually illicits complaints, the university is hoping the reception for the new Frank Gehry designed Dr Chau Chak Wing building is more positive.
Construction of the building has now finished ahead of its official launch in February next year, with media touring the building yesterday.
The building's undulating brick façade, punctuated by protruding rectangular windows, was made with 320,000 custom, <a href="/news/frank-gehrys-sydney-uts-building-bricks-exposed-buff-brown-or-crushed-paper-bag">hand laid bricks</a> from Bowral. While a bricklayer might usually lay up to 600 bricks a day, one brickie working on the project told the ABC the unique façade slowed progress down to as few as 70 bricks a day. Construction took four years.
Professor Shirley Alexander, deputy vice-chancellor, Education and Students, at UTS, said the building reflected Australia's future.
"Australia can no longer compete on the cost of labour; we have to compete on the quality of labour and that's what these buildings are all about," said Alexander.
The interiors, designed before the building's distinctive crumpled exterior, comprise a number  learning, work and social spaces, including a café. The lower floors are each divided into six areas, with the folding façade designed to allow the maximum amount of natural sunlight to penetrate the interiors.
{qtube vid:=MF8QdHIjFKs}
Video: University of Technology, Sydney/The Timelapse Company
Rather than typical sprawling lecture theatres, the business school building comprises smaller collaborative workspaces, conference rooms and lounges as online learning shrinks class sizes.
Spread over 11 floors, the new building has 16,030 square metres of internal floor space. It cost a total of $180 million dollars, $20 million of which was donated by Chinese-Australian businessman Dr Chau Chak Wing, who also contributed $5 million in scholarships to UTS.
The property developer is no stranger to donations, being one of Australia's biggest political donors. He has contributed over $2 million to various Australian political parties, and has entertained John Howard, Kevin Rudd, Bob Hawke and Wayne Swan at his estate in China.
Chau is the owner of Kingold Group, a Chinese property developer with 6,000 employees. His son Eric studied architecture at UTS.
Photos: Andrew Worssam
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UTS opens Frank Gehry's paper bag 

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Today, Jonathan Shapiera has told the affordable housing inquiry about his life as a person experiencing homelessness.
<img src="/images/2014/11/11/tweet-nov-11-one.jpg" alt=""> Shapiera and several other people in his area who are homeless have made a submission to the Standing Senate Committe on Economics: Affordable Housing Inquiry. In it, he describes living in his car with his son, his employer's lack of understanding and encountering other people without homes experiencing mental health issues.
The submission also raises the lack of available affordable housing in mining areas. 
"Mining areas in Australia are the worst affected when it comes to affordable living conditions. The author relocated to Darwin in November 2011 for employment on the eHealth project after completion of a contract with a company in Brisbane," reads the submission.
"Rentals and sales at the time were at a “practical price” for employed personal. The announcement of the ICTHYS project to Darwin saw rental prices go through the roof. A one bedroom city based flat prior to ICTHYS was listed at $195 per week. After the ICTHYS announcement it went to $385 per week. The benefit of mining to the country has a hazardous effect to local residents."
The South West Australian Homeless People's full submission can be read <a href="https://www.centrecare.com.au/resources/latest-news-documents/South%20West%20Australia%20Homeless%20People.pdf" target="_blank">here</a>.
Western Australian Labor Senator Sue Lines, who is at the affordable housing inquiry, tweeted a picture of Jonathan Shapiera speaking at the inquiry today.
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Tweet of the day: Jonathan Shapiera at the affordable housing inquiry

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Townsville's Maddi and Lloyd, contestants on Channel 7's House Rules, are auctioning their house.
They paid $372,000 for the four bedroom house in 2013. It came with significant damage including rot, mould, uneven floors and a barely useable kitchen.
Since then, the house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-pallarenda-118408027" target="_blank">59 Wackett Street, Pallarenda</a>, has undergone some dubious televised renovations thanks to the couple's fellow contestants. Melbourne couple Adam and Lisa, earned a 10 out of 10 score for their makeover of the Townsville house's kitchen. They later went on to win the show.
The couple feature prominently in the property's marketing campaign, appearing in a video describing the house.
{qtube vid:=a1Z1GjNZL5Q}
When given the opportunity, Maddi and Lloyd removed some of the more eccentric elements installed on the show, including the hessian ceiling Tasmanians Brooke and Grant applied in the master bedroom.
There is bamboo flooring throughout the house, with cathedral ceilings in the central open plan kitchen, living and dining area. The tropical home has louvre windows and bi-fold doors opening onto a wraparound deck that can be accessed from the kitchen and two of its three bedrooms.
Part of the deck overlooks the in-ground swimming pool.
The home, selling through Keyes &amp; Co Property Townsville, is located at the end of a cul-de-sac, backing onto a reserve. Buyers will have the option of purchasing the home empty or fully furnished.
Maddi told The Courier Mail that the couple will be moving to begin a family.
"We have made the decision to move to Cairns, it's where Lloyd's family lives," Maddi said.
"We're looking at having kids sooner rather than later, so it's important to us to be near family."
They are not the first couple from this year's House Rules to put their home on the market. Ryan Pusic and Candy Stuart sold their <a href="/expert-insights/buying/house-rules-candy-and-ryan-secure-190-000-emu-plains-sale-flip-success">renovated Emu Plains home</a> for $590,000 in August. Western Australian couple Carole and Russell were also seeking to offload their Boya home, though it did not seem to appear on any major listing websites. Instead, it appears the couple may just have sold the property as they bought it – without an agent, through <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.gumtree.com.au/s-ad/boya/property-for-sale/boya-carole-and-russell-house-rules/1060241034" target="_blank">Gumtree</a>.
<img src="/images/2014/11/11/Picture%201.png" alt="">
Maddi and Lloyd's house will be auctioned on 6 December.
You might want to read: <a href="/expert-insights/building/swimwear-model-maddis-shoe-room-overhaul-as-house-rules-hits-tropical-pallarenda-townsville"> Swimwear model Maddi's shoe room overhaul as House Rules hits tropical Pallarenda, Townsville</a>
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House Rules' Maddi and Lloyd list renovated house

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After last season's auctions fizzled out, it's good to know that good Blockheads go to heaven – or at least, to have careers in renovation.
Though they may be off our screens, plenty of former contestants from The Block have continued to renovate and refurbish homes. The Block: Where are they now? 
<ul>
<li>Michael and Carlene</li>
</ul>
<img src="/images/2014/11/11/michael%20and%20carlene.jpeg" alt=""> After winning just $10,000 on The Block Glasshouse, Michael and Carlene have hit the ground running. They've launched <a href="https://cedarandsuede.com" target="_blank">Cedar&amp;Suede</a>, a design and construction company. The business is available to work on new builds, renovations or interior updates.
<ul>
<li>Alisa and Lysandra <img src="/images/2014/11/11/Alisa_Lysandra_0118_copy.jpg" alt=""> </li>
</ul>
The twice-appearing twins, who won The Block Sky High and showed up again for Fans v Faves have a homewares retail business, AL Collections. Their products include plenty of items they used on The Block, and even Alisa and Lysandra <a href="https://www.alcollections.com.au" target="_blank">t-shirts and hoodies</a>, for the true devotees.
<ul>
<li>Kyal and Kara</li>
</ul>
<img src="/images/2014/11/11/566768-f1ae33e0-86ee-11e3-8066-beb3483f8e9c.jpg" alt=""> Fans v Faves favourites Kyal and Kara now run <a href="https://www.diverseconstruct.com/" target="_blank">Diverse Design and Construct</a>, a company they launched in the wake of The Block. The young couple work on new residential builds, commercial and retail fit outs, interiors, renovations and custom cabinetry.
<ul>
<li>Brad and Lara</li>
</ul>
<img src="/images/2014/11/11/bradlara_bio.jpg" alt=""> Brad and Lara won the 2012 season of The Block. The couple have put some of their winnings (which includes Brad's share of the profit he made with Dale on The Block Fans v Faves) on a commercial property investment – the Maryville Tavern.
Buying earlier this year, the couple have been renovating the pub. Brad will reportedly be managing the project with the pub's co-owner, his cousin.
<ul>
<li>Matt and Kim <img src="/images/2014/11/11/mattkim.jpg" alt=""> </li>
</ul>
Matt and Kim, who got married earlier this year, have been a little more public about their renovation efforts than other former contestants. The couple hosted a Channel 9 special called Matt and Kim to the Rescue, where they renovated a family's home in three days.
Matt works at <a href="https://www.skyhighrenders.com" target="_blank">Sky High Renders</a>, a polished plastering company, Kim writes for past Block contestant Dani's blog, The Home Journal, and the couple also created styling packages for developer Psaros.
<ul>
<li>Bec and George <img src="/images/2014/11/11/becgeorge.jpg" alt=""> </li>
</ul>
Fellow Sky High couple Bec and George also continue to work in property and interiors. Bec works as the resident interior consultant for developer Nostra homes, while running interiors and fashion blog, <a href="https://becmarksthespot.com.au">Bec Marks The Spot</a>. According to her website, George keeps busy developing properties.
<ul>
<li>Josh and Jenna</li>
</ul>
<img src="/images/2014/11/11/jenna-and-josh-729-420x0.jpg" alt=""> After appearing on The Block in 2011 and 2013, Josh and Jenna seem to have acquired a taste for renovating and flipping properties. The couple have a business called <a href="/expert-insights/buying/blockheads-josh-and-jenna-sell-east-albury-investment-cottage">Bicker Design</a>, which specialises in "interior design, property renovation and pre sale makeovers". Earlier this year, the couple sold their renovated East Albury investment cottage.
Josh and Jenna also have a lighting range at Beacon, with items ranging from $79.95 to $599.00.
<ul>
<li>Dani and Dan <img src="/images/2014/11/11/danidan_bio.jpg" alt=""> </li>
</ul>
Dani and Dan competed on The Block 2012 and The Block All Stars, winning a total of $668,000. Since then, they've been completing two renovation projects, an East Melbourne apartment and a house in Seddon, which will be documented on their online renovation publication and retailer <a href="https://thehome-journal.com" target="_blank">The Home Journal</a>. Dan has also been keeping busy in the past few months as foreman Keith's assistant on the South Yarra set of The Block 2015.
Photos courtesy Channel 9.
 
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Former Block contestants craft new careers in renovation

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A Clontarf beach-front home was the most expensive sold in Australia last week, according to RP Data. The mid-century house (pictured in the gallery above) sold for $4,875,000, changing hands for the first time in 60 years.
Second on RP Data's list was a Bellevue Hill home, which secured $4.61 million. Once again Sydney homes dominated the top-end sales, with just one appearance each from Victoria, Queensland and Western Australia.
RP Data's top 10 sales for the week ending Sunday 9 November: 
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-clontarf-118133639" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-one.jpg" alt="" style="float: left;">29 Monash Crescent, Clontarf, NSW</a> <img src="/images/2014/11/11/1.jpg" alt="">
The Clontarf house was sold through Belle Property. With direct access to the beach through the back gate, the home has a full panoramic view of the harbour through full height picture windows and sliding doors, which open to the back terrace. The terrace has a separate undercover entertaining area.
The home has four bedrooms and three original bathrooms, with a "retro-style" kitchen.
<a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/29-bulkara-road-bellevue-hill/Property-Details-buy-residential-7682968" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-two.jpg" alt="" style="float: left;">29 Bulkara Road, Bellevue Hill, NSW</a> <img src="/images/2014/11/11/2.jpg" alt=""> A five bedroom, six bathroom house in Bellevue Hill sold for $4.61 million last week through Laing + Simmons Double Bay. The main house, with multiple entertaining terraces, shares the 892 square metre plot with a free standing pool house.
According to the listing information, there is scope for a future second floor renovation on the home. The sellers bought it for $3 million in 2009.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-yeronga-118120535" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-three.jpg" alt="" style="float: left;">365 Brisbane Corso, Yeronga, Qld</a>
 <img src="/images/2014/11/11/3.jpg" alt="">
The only Queensland home to make it to this week's top 10, this Yeronga house sold for $4.38 million through Place Graceville.
Constructed by the TAK Group in 2008, the three level home sits on a 916 square metre riverfront site, with 800 square metres of internal floor space. Materials used in the house include natural stone and polished timber. There is a pool along the side of the home's raised second level, with a spout pouring water from the wall of the house's third floor.
Although it was one of Australia's most expensives homes sold this week, the vendors still made a loss on 365 Brisbane Corso. They paid $5 million for the residence in 2009.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-mosman-118107239" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-four.jpg" alt="" style="float: left;">14 Euryalus Street, Mosman, NSW</a> <img src="/images/2014/11/11/4.jpg" alt="">
A Mosman home designed by French born Sydney architect Guy de Compiegne sold for $4.15 million through LJ Hooker Mosman. Compiegne has spoken before about the changing nature of entertaining spaces in homes – this one, with its large marble kitchen island and open plan living area, seems to align with his ideas about high visibility, theatrical entertaining.
Many of the north-facing house's rooms offer panoramic views of Middle Harbour, and the home has a nine metre pool. 
<a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/11-ruby-street-mosman/Property-Details-buy-residential-7752208" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-five.jpg" alt="" style="float: left;">11 Ruby Street, Mosman, NSW</a> <img src="/images/2014/11/11/5.jpg" alt="">
The second Mosman home on this week's top 10 list sold for $3,971,000 at auction through Shead Property Chatswood. The sale marks the first time the circa 1907 house has changed hands in 70 years.
With a view of the city skyline, the Opera House and the Harbour Bridge, the house is set high on its 835 square metre plot. It has four bedrooms. The home features stained glass bay windows, fireplaces in the formal lounge and dining room, a cellar and a workshop.
Article continues on the next page. Please click below.
<a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/9-cole-street-hawthorn-east/Property-Details-buy-residential-7737540" target="_blank"></a>
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
<a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/9-cole-street-hawthorn-east/Property-Details-buy-residential-7737540" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-six.jpg" alt="" style="float: left;">9 Cole Street, Hawthorn East, Vic</a> <img src="/images/2014/11/11/6.jpg" alt="">
This Hawthorn East home with a faux Parisian façade sold for $3.8 million through Hocking Stuart Balwyn. The interior is as ornate as the exterior, with European Oak parquetry throughout, New York marble used in the kitchen and fireplaces and a calacatta marble en suite for the master bedroom.
There are five bedrooms and four bathrooms in home, with an entertaining area, kitchen and solar heated pool outside. Vendors purchased the property for $1.65 million mid-last year before building the current residence.
<a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/248-marine-parade-cottesloe/Property-Details-buy-residential-6714305" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-seven.jpg" alt="" style="float: left;">248 Marine Parade, Cottesloe, WA</a> <img src="/images/2014/11/11/7.jpg" alt="">
The only West Australian home to appear on this week's top 10 is a $3.7 million Cottesloe home. The four bedroom, three bathroom house was designed by Perth architect Gary Banham.
After 268 days on the market, the home with ocean views was sold through Mack Hall Real Estate.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-strathfield-118149319" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-eight.jpg" alt="" style="float: left;">81 Homebush Road, Strathfield, NSW</a> <img src="/images/2014/11/11/8.jpg" alt="">
This three level heritage home sold at auction through Richard Matthew Real Estate Strathfield, who boast the $3,601,000 price was $451,000 over reserve.
The eight bedroom, five bathroom house is set over five levels on a 1,808 square metre parcel. It features formal and informal living spaces, wraparound balconies, marble fireplaces, lead lights and a separate one bedroom apartment.
<a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/12-hall-street-brighton/Property-Details-buy-residential-7733080" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-nine.jpg" alt="" style="float: left;">12 Hall Street, Brighton, Vic</a> <img src="/images/2014/11/11/9.jpg" alt=""> A triple storey Georgian inspired home sold for $3,515,000 through Greg Hocking Real Estate St Kilda. The five bedroom, three bathroom Brighton house is situated on a 894 square metre plot a house away from the Billilia mansion estate, within walking distance of the William Street Reserve and Church Street.
Herringbone parquetry floors are seen throughout the home's living and entertaining areas, which include a formal lounge and dining room. At the rear, french doors open onto the outdoor entertaining area and gardens.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-north+bondi-107613381" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-ten.jpg" alt="" style="float: left;">71 Hastings Parade, North Bondi, NSW</a> <img src="/images/2014/11/11/10.jpg" alt="">
Raine &amp; Horne Bondi Beach secured $3.13 million for this five bedroom North Bondi house.
The living area of the freestanding home has blackbutt timber floors, with an open flame gas fireplace. Outdoors, there is a deck for entertaining, an outdoor shower and a five metre spa.
Sellers bought the house in April 2012, paying $2.4 million.
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Clontarf waterfront home tops sales: RP Data

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With manufacturing swiftly moving overseas, renovators are making good use of our empty warehouses.
Here are six of the best warehouse conversions currently on the market, with healthy doses of exposed brick and timber cross beams.
<ol>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/9a-clifton-street-richmond/Property-Details-buy-residential-7870158" target="_blank">9a Clifton Street Richmond Vic 3121</a> <img src="/images/2014/11/10/4.jpg" alt=""> DCM and Rick Bzowy are responsible for the interiors of this three bedroom Richmond warehouse conversion. The former is best known for creating Melbourne landmarks, including the Cheese-sticks, which greet those traveling on the Citylink. The two story home has three bedrooms, two bathrooms and "showroom quality garaging" for six vehicles. It includes hydronic heating, exposed trusses, a commercial grade kitchen and a butler's pantry. The renovated warehouse is listed for auction on 29 November. 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/30-gibbens-street-camperdown/Property-Details-buy-residential-7861230" target="_blank">30 Gibbens Street Camperdown NSW 2050</a> <img src="/images/2014/11/10/1.jpg" alt="">
While this warehouse's internal sterility unfortunately hides some of its original 1930s materials, it does showcase two other great qualities of warehouse buildings – volume and light. Spaced over three levels, the former print factory has five bedrooms, four bathrooms and multiple living spaces on 720 square metres of internal space.
The home retains its original parquetry, concrete and terrazzo flooring.
Update: 30 Gibbens Street has now been reported as sold.
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-nsw-darlinghurst-118354219" target="_blank">7/1 Printers Lane Darlinghurst NSW 2010</a> <img src="/images/2014/11/10/2.jpg" alt=""> This apartment is located in another former print factory, Darlinghurst's "The Printery". One of nine apartments, number seven has industrial-inspired interiors and 2.8 metre ceilings.
The interiors feature the building's original exposed brickwork and timber joists, with polished timber floors, while the bedroom appears to have an aged copper feature wall.
The one bedroom apartment will be auctioned on 6 December. 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-clovelly-118213759" target="_blank"> 1 Greville Street Clovelly NSW 2031</a>
<img src="/images/phocagallery/2014/10/cloveeley-oct-29/clovelley_0000_1.jpg.jpg"> The former stables renovated by television producer turned tourism entrepreneur <a href="/news/henry-crawfords-former-clovelly-conversion-on-the-market">Henry Crawford</a> and his wife Nina Hill are on the market with $3.25 million expectations.
The current owners have decked the four bedroom conversion out with contemporary Australian art, including pieces by David Bromley and Bill Henson. With Asian-inspired interiors, the home features a variety of undisguised materials, including original timber flooring, timber crossbeams and exposed brick walls.
The Stables go to auction on 15 November.
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.commercialview.com.au/8-eastern-place-hawthorn-east-vic/commercial-for-sale-details-7831674" target="_blank">8 Eastern Place Hawthorn East Vic 3123</a>
 <img src="/images/2014/11/10/5.jpg" alt="">
Hidden behind a cascading hedge is a mixed-use warehouse conversion with an apartment and studio office with split tenancies. A consulting company occupies the warehouse's lower floor, with the apartment on the upper floor.
The three bedroom apartment has 246 square metres of space, with three bedrooms and three bathrooms set around a central roofed terrace. The offices and residences will be auctioned as one property on Thursday 27 November.
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-annandale-118345055" target="_blank">8A Piper Lane Annandale NSW 2038</a> <img src="/images/2014/11/10/6.jpg" alt="">
8 Eastern Place isn't the only warehouse with a folliage festooned façade on the market. This ivy-covered Annandale home is spread over a basement level, a ground floor and a mezzanine.
The basement holds a study and entertainment area, with timber flooring, exposed timber beams and exposed brick walls. Floating stairs take the resident up to the ground floor, where there is a lounge area, dining and kitchen space, an entry foyer and a bathroom.
The bedrooms are situated on the mezzanine level, with the master bedroom opening onto a deck. 8A Piper Lane will be auctioned on November 29.
</li>
</ol>
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The six best warehouse conversions on the market

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Home loan providers continue to cut interest rates in a bid to grab further market share.
According to Michelle Hutchison, head of PR and money expert at comparison website <a href="https://www.finder.com.au/" target="_blank">Finder</a>, loans.com.au currently offers the lowest variable rate in Australia, which is now at 4.54%.
"The war between home loan lenders has been taken up a notch, with loans.com.au fighting back, following UBank's move to cut its variable rate home loan," said Hutchison.
"loans.com.au today reduced its Dream Home Loan Variable Blackboard Special Rate, by 0.06 percentage points to remain the lowest in Australia," she explained.
"This follows UBank announcing its move to lower its UHomeLoan to 4.54% effective today, which was previously the lowest rate held by loans.com.au."
Other smaller lenders have done the same following the Reserve Bank's announcement that the overnight cash rate will remain at 2.5% for another month.
Firstmac has dropped the rate for its VIP Package Product to by five basis points to 4.69%, also waiving a $295 annual fee. The interest rate on Advantedge's white label loan product for loans over $500,000 is now reportedly 4.63%, with a maximum 80% loan to value ratio.
St George has cut its three year fixed rate package by 10 basis points – with an Advantage Package Discount, the rate is now at 4.79%.
The major banks appear to have kept their interest rates on hold following Tuesday's announcement, with ANZ yesterday confirming that it will not cut its rates this month. Its standard variable home loan rate remains at 5.88%.
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Small lenders cut rates as RBA stands still

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The owners and renovators of an Armadale Edwardian home have decided to run with the pack and add "stables" to the back of their property.
While genuine stables are not uncommon at the back of homes in Melbourne's Armadale, the structure at the back of <a href="https://www.marshallwhite.com.au/140534/" target="_blank">62 Union Street</a> was actually built this year.
They hold a double garage, a workshop and a studio or guest accommodation.
The main circa 1905 single level Edwardian house was renovated this year. Bi-fold doors open directly onto the back garden and the so-called stables.
Madeline Kennedy of Marshall White has not provided a price guide for the four bedroom home. Vendors paid $1.46 million for the unrenovated property in October 2013.
62 Union Street will be auctioned on the evening of Thursday, 20 November.
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Genuine stables? Neigh! Armadale cottage with faux stables for sale

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Lots, terraces and new homes will be available to purchase at the Argyle masterplanned community in Elderslie on Saturday.
Investa Land and AVJennings are developing the project, which they predict will house about 1,500 people upon completion. The Australian Bureau of Statistics recorded 4,252 residents in Elderslie in 2011.
Alan Soutar, executive general manager at AVJennings, said the available properties include completed homes and terraces, house and land packages from preferred builders and home sites. Prices begin at $257,000.
"We've already had a number of expressions of interest for houses and land at Argyle from a range of purchasers including first and second home buyers, and young families," said Soutar.
According to Cameron Holt, chief executive of Investa Land, Argyle residents will benefit from the upcoming South West Rail link, which is currently under construction.
"They can also enjoy over three and a half hectares of open space and public parks through the development, ideal for family and friends to enjoy," said Holt.
<a href="/news">Elderslie</a> is around an hour's drive south west of Sydney's CBD.
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Masterplanned community in Elderslie, NSW launches tomorrow

Malaysian developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/s-p-setia">SP Setia</a> is the latest to jump into St Leonards booming Transport Oriented Development precinct.

The developer, which has previously delivered Sapphire by the Gardens apartment development in Melbourne, identified the Atchison Street site in 2023. It filed a Scoping Report around 12 months ago, and now has revealed the designs for the new&nbsp;40-storey mixed-use tower.

The State Significant Development Application covers <a href="https://next-portal.urban.com.au/projects/14650/summary">20-22 Atchison Street</a>, a 1,374 sqm site positioned between St Leonards Station and the new Crows Nest Metro station.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">COX Architecture</a>, the project would deliver 181 apartments, above a four-storey commercial podium, five basement levels, and new public domain works along Mitchell Street. The apartment mix comprises 35 one-bedroom apartments, 39 one-bedroom-plus-study apartments, 85 two-bedroom apartments, and 22 three-bedroom residences.

The proposal has been lodged as a shop-top housing development under the NSW Government’s TOD planning pathway, which allows increased density around key transport infrastructure. The site sits within the recently rezoned Crows Nest Accelerated TOD Precinct.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b799673d-48e2-46b0-801a-0e33a9330100" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/atchinson%20site.png?VersionId=dPh0UfwfaHpbFL1R7H1cbZNbIW0CHbCC" />

SP Setia acquired the Atchison Street site as part of its continued expansion into the Australian apartment market. In comments made to City &amp; Country (The Edge Malaysia) in 2023, SP Setia President and CEO Datuk Choong Kai Wai described the acquisition as “a strategic move” aligned with the group’s post-pandemic market recovery strategy.

“Our target for this exceptional development is local and overseas buyers, including first-home buyers, downsizers and investors,” Choong said.

The tower has been designed as a slender vertical form rising from a mixed-use podium, with COX Architecture positioning the development as a response to the evolving St Leonards and Crows Nest skyline.

“The purpose of the project is to facilitate the delivery of high-quality housing at a strategically located site and deliver a built tower outcome that is consistent with the desired future character of St Leonards and aligns with the TOD controls,” the design report stated.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b1a85eee-76f7-436c-a6da-73ba827b9b13" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/atchinson%20entry.png?VersionId=dA9jHGPMcm.dDbwk4QfxqWiY5bfh3UVt" />

The podium would incorporate retail uses fronting Atchison Street, commercial tenancies, landscaped communal areas, and pedestrian improvements along Mitchell Street. Vehicle access and loading would be consolidated via Atchison Lane.

Residents would have access to more than 665 sqm of communal indoor and outdoor spaces, while the development proposes 96 parking spaces across five basement levels.

The proposal also includes a commitment for 10 per cent of residential floor space to be allocated toward affordable housing through a monetary contribution.

COX said the tower form responds directly to the emerging high-density character of the precinct while seeking to maximise solar access, cross ventilation, and outlook from apartments.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2163f85c-f63b-4be3-aafa-f8763976cec5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Article%20Feature%20Image%20%28Grid%29_5.png?VersionId=WiAmtIKJ6.ZQ41EtYEQ1fol7AeorKBlL" />

“The building is orientated towards north,” the Apartment Design Guide compliance report noted, adding that the tower’s slim form was driven by the constrained inner-urban site dimensions.

The design also incorporates landscaped setbacks and communal open space at podium level, intended to soften the interface with surrounding streets and improve pedestrian amenity.

The project adds to a growing wave of redevelopment proposals reshaping St Leonards and Crows Nest following the opening of the Sydney Metro City line and the NSW Government’s push for higher-density housing around major transport nodes.

Last week Stockland filed plans just down the road. They want to build a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/601-pacific-highway-st-leonards-nsw-2065">52-storey tower on Pacific Highway</a>.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-stockland-plans-52-storey-538-apartment-st-leonards-tower">First look: Stockland plans 52-storey, 538-apartment St Leonards tower&nbsp;</a>

Joel Robinson

First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> has revealed plans for a new mixed-use tower at 10 Dangar Street, Wickham, advancing a proposal that would reshape the southern gateway to Newcastle’s city centre with one of the city’s tallest residential buildings.

The State Significant Development proposal, now on exhibition, seeks approval for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/bowline-10-dangar-street-wickham-nsw-2293">43-storey tower</a> immediately adjacent to the Newcastle Interchange. The project would deliver around 200 apartments, including 42 affordable housing dwellings, alongside 99 co-living units, a 171-room hotel, retail space, and new public domain integrated through the site.

The scheme marks a significant escalation of plans previously approved for the site. Urban Property Group took over the prominent 2,904 sqm parcel, where excavation and demolition had already commenced under an earlier consent for a 14-storey mixed-use development.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="58a96dd9-407f-4d20-86b4-94e4bfeef74b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20podium.png?VersionId=LGlf08pdFGAZDzvx_CXC4XakHNZRuEE0" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, the tower has been conceived as a landmark transit-oriented development anchored to the Newcastle Interchange precinct. The proposal includes 245 build-to-sell apartments across a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom residences, as well as two penthouses. Fifteen apartments and one operational unit are earmarked for NDIS housing. The co-living component would add a further 99 units, while the podium would accommodate retail uses and hotel facilities.

SJB said the site presents “a valuable opportunity to anchor the precinct by setting the standard for design, active ground planes and character at the key southern gateway.”

The architecture responds directly to the site’s position beside major transport infrastructure and within one of Newcastle’s fastest-evolving urban renewal precincts. The tower form sits above a sculpted podium designed to frame new public spaces, including a through-site pedestrian link connecting Station Street to Hannell Street, landscaped plazas, and activated retail edges.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a7bd6ff0-f7db-4ce8-a6dc-ea56e72c6149" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20lanne.png?VersionId=xzf39VADyhj7zBQY2I9fx9vI62u2tuSb" />

The design report describes the project as part of the broader transition of Wickham into “a vibrant, high-quality mixed-use urban precinct” that leverages proximity to the station, open space, and regional connectivity.

A detailed public art strategy has also been prepared for the development. The strategy positions the project as “a transit-oriented development of state significance at the gateway to Newcastle’s city centre” and outlines a series of integrated artworks responding to Newcastle’s industrial and transport heritage.

Creative Road’s curatorial framework for the project, titled Unveil, draws on “stratified surfaces, carved volumes, and light-filled apertures” while referencing Newcastle’s transformation from an industrial city into a contemporary education and technology hub.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="77a882bb-14b1-4d28-99ff-9438e39508c0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20site.png?VersionId=cevgo_vN0eKPK78P8YcEu3mKPLkpFqE7" />

The proposal is being advanced through the NSW Housing Delivery Authority pathway after being declared State Significant Development in June 2025. The accompanying scoping report states the development aims to “maximise the site’s proximity to the Newcastle Interchange by delivering transit-oriented development” while increasing housing supply and affordable housing provision within the Newcastle LGA.

Urban Property Group’s plans align with the long-term strategic vision established under the Wickham Master Plan, which identified the interchange precinct as suitable for substantial uplift in height and density. The current proposal would significantly intensify that vision, positioning the tower among the tallest developments proposed for Newcastle.

The site sits immediately north of the Newcastle Interchange, bounded by Dangar Street, Hannell Street, and Charles Street. It is surrounded by a rapidly growing cluster of residential towers and mixed-use projects that have emerged following the completion of the light rail and transport interchange.

First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s latest tower at Wickham interchange

Bottega House has completed settlement of a landmark riverfront site in Macquarie Street, St Lucia, representing its first major Brisbane development.&nbsp;

Positioned on the banks of the Brisbane River, the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/180-macquarie-street-st-lucia-qld-4067">premium site at 180 Macquarie Street</a> features uninterrupted river frontage in one of Brisbane’s most tightly held residential precincts.&nbsp;

The proposed development, currently under assessment with Brisbane City Council, has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/plus-studio">Plus Studio</a> with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/mim-design">Mim Design</a> and will deliver a boutique collection of premium residences positioned specifically for owner occupiers and downsizers.&nbsp;

The residences are set to redefine luxury apartment living in the area, with a focus on architectural quality, refined finishes, landscape integration and elevated amenities including curated wellness facilities, resort-style pools and recreation spaces rarely seen in the local market.&nbsp;

Exclusive sales for the project will be led by Keenan &amp; Byrne, ahead of an anticipated launch later this year.&nbsp;

Bottega House Managing Director Nick Malloch said the project reflects the group’s ambition to deliver a highly curated residential offering within one of Brisbane’s most tightly held precincts.&nbsp;

“This is an incredibly rare riverfront opportunity and one we have approached with a long-term perspective,” Malloch said.&nbsp;

“Our vision from the outset was to create a boutique collection of residences that feel more like private homes than traditional apartments, with generous proportions, refined finishes and exceptional amenity throughout."

Malloch says there is a&nbsp;lack of premium owner-occupier stock of this quality in the market, particularly for downsizers wanting space, privacy and a true lifestyle offering without compromise.&nbsp;

"Demand is expected to be strong given the scarcity of premium riverfront opportunities of this nature within Brisbane’s inner-west."&nbsp;

Bottega House secures landmark riverfront site in St Lucia 

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The arrival of the first piling rig officially marks the commencement of construction at SIERA’s new beachside apartment development, Exhale, in Northcliffe.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/exhale-surfers-paradise-8-enderley-avenue-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Exhale</a>, a glass-encased tower featuring 54 large-scale apartments at 8 Enderley Avenue, is SIERA’s third Gold Coast development. It follows the recently completed PIPIS Bilinga beachfront project, which achieved suburb-record prices, and the soon-to-be-completed Chevron Island development, Tapestry.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=359603]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/siera">SIERA</a> Founder and Managing Director Brent Thompson said the arrival of the piling rig represented a significant milestone for the development, which is scheduled for completion in late 2028.

Over the next month, around 260 piles are expected to be installed as work progresses on the basement structure. The building is anticipated to rise above ground level early next year, before unveiling its sculptural glass curtain wall, developed in collaboration with specialist façade engineers.

“The façade was designed to maximise panoramic coastal views while creating a distinctive architectural identity,” Thompson said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=355935]

Designed by BDA Architecture, Exhale will comprise just 54 two- and three-bedroom residences across 26 levels, a level of low-density living rarely delivered in this beachside pocket between Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach.

The project has been conceived as a resident-only building, with no short-stay accommodation permitted. SIERA says the model is intended to appeal to long-term owner-occupiers rather than transient holiday demand.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=361052]

Residences have been designed with large-format layouts and expansive glazing, with most apartments featuring more than 30 metres of glass frontage to maximise natural light and ocean views.

The amenity offering spans two levels and centres on wellness and lifestyle, including a heated magnesium pool, sauna, yoga and Pilates studio, gymnasium, private dining facilities, cinema lounge, and dedicated surfcraft storage.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=359607]

More than half of the apartments have already sold. SIERA has also opened a sales gallery for Exhale at its Chevron Island commercial premises, near its Tapestry tower and the site of its second Chevron Island apartment development, which is slated to launch in early 2027.
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[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112661]

SIERA kicks off construction at Northcliffe tower Exhale

Local Little Bay residents, along with buyers from premium postcodes across Sydney’s affluent Eastern Suburbs, have dominated purchases in developer-builder Urban Property Group’s first Eastern Suburbs apartment development, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/este-little-bay-jennifer-street-little-bay-nsw-2036">ESTE Little Bay</a>.

The $250 million coastal project, one of the first new developments in the area in several years, has proven particularly popular with downsizers, especially those from Coogee and Bondi. One Double Bay downsizer paid $4.7 million for a four-bedroom penthouse, setting a new local apartment price record in the process.

Buyers have been attracted to the combination of coastal tranquillity, premium design and amenity-rich neighbourhood living. The walkable village setting, along with proximity to three of Sydney’s leading golf courses, New South Wales Golf Club, St Michael’s Golf Club and The Coast Golf Club, has also been a key drawcard.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112343 project_image_fid=352689]

Built across two low-rise buildings designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hill-thalis-architecture-urban-projects-pty-ltd">Hill Thalis</a> and set along a lush, landscaped green spine, designed by leading landscape architect <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/arcadia-landscape-architecture">Arcadia</a>, ESTE Little Bay offers a collection of one, two, three and four-bedroom residences with interiors by Richards Stanisich.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> Sales Director, Tom McIvor said the response to ESTE has been "nothing short of extraordinary."

“Buyers have been quick to recognise ESTE as a rare opportunity to invest in a coastal sanctuary that offers both seclusion and connectivity to the heart of Sydney,” McIvor said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112343 project_image_fid=352687]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/srm-residential">SRM Residential</a> Senior Director, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/srm-residential">Clayton Ross</a> said the local market has responded incredibly well, driven by ESTE’s exceptional location and the rarity it offers.

“We’ve seen strong interest from a variety of buyer groups, all of whom are drawn to the exclusivity and quality of the build and construction by the 4.5-star iCIRT-rated builder / developer, Urban Property Group. There’s truly nothing else like it along Sydney’s coastline.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112343 project_image_fid=352690]

The project also includes robust buyer protections, including Resilience Insurance’s Latent Defects Insurance, providing 10 years of structural cover, and an independent iCIRT-rating of the developer.

“The iCIRT-rating adds another layer of confidence,” Ross added. “Buyers see it as a safeguard for their investment and their lifestyle.” A highlight of ESTE’s offering is its exclusive wellness amenities, including a heated rooftop infinity pool and outdoor heated spa, a state-of-the-art Technogym fitness centre, and a sauna.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/este-little-bay-jennifer-street-little-bay-nsw-2036">ESTE Little Bay</a> is topped out and is on track to complete towards the end of 2026, with residents moving in before Christmas.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112343]

Jessie Richardson

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