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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

Queensland builder-developer MAYD has revealed the first look at its major North Kirra beachfront development, lodging amended plans that reduce the number of apartments and increase the proportion of larger residences.

The project is planned across a substantial 4,742 sqm amalgamated site spanning seven lots at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/2-6-pacific-parade-bilinga-qld-4225">2-6 Pacific Parade</a> and 27-33 Golden Four Drive in Bilin​ga, directly opposite Nor​th Kirra Beach.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mayd-group">MAYD</a> secured the site for $32.5 million in 2025, in what was one of the Gold Coast's largest property transactions of the year.

The development will be delivered across two stages, with the first stage carrying an estimated gross realisation value of around $360 million.

The latest amendments seek to reduce the overall apartment count and shift the project further toward the owner-occupier market, with larger residences designed for buyers wanting considerably more space than traditionally offered in a beachfront apartment.

The residential mix will include townhomes, oversized two-bedroom apartments, substantial three-bedroom residences and four-bedroom homes.

MAYD has appointed Cera Stribley to lead the architecture and interiors, with the Melbourne-based design practice drawing on the beachfront setting through a series of ocean-facing terraces and heavily landscaped balconies.

Strong horizontal forms and curved balconies will define the exterior, with subtropical landscaping integrated throughout the building to soften the built form and increase the connection between the residences and the beachfront.

The project will also include an extensive collection of resident wellness and lifestyle facilities, continuing the broader shift across the Gold Coast's luxury apartment market toward larger homes supported by resort-style amenity.

<img alt="MAYD" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d1bcbb05-e659-4b47-8bd4-1e595315e2ad" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-27%20at%202.05.03%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=jj0XEud1X1DuLt7_KyElhjMdZGOXmLHP" />

MAYD Founder Todd Mould said North Kirra was increasingly appealing to buyers attracted to the more established, lower-density character of the southern Gold Coast.

"North Kirra presents one of the most compelling luxury residential opportunities currently emerging in Australia, combining absolute beachfront with the character and authenticity that buyers are increasingly seeking, and the same sense of tight-knit community that defined Burleigh and Currumbin perhaps 10 or 15 years ago," Mould said.

"With Gold Coast Airport on its doorstep, it also offers a level of accessibility that broadens its appeal across almost every market demographic."

The project comes as the southern Gold Coast continues to attract an increasing share of high-end apartment development and buyer activity.

Kirra in particular has emerged as one of the region's more tightly held beachfront markets, with its relatively low-density character, established surf and hospitality scene and proximity to Gold Coast Airport differentiating it from the higher-density markets further north.

Mould said those characteristics had informed the approach MAYD and Cera Stribley had taken to the project.

"We've worked closely with Cera Stribley to create a vision that is deeply connected to its surroundings," he said.

"Inspired by the coastline itself, the architecture has been shaped around space, privacy and resort-style living, creating a collection of homes that reflects the next generation of luxury on the southern Gold Coast."

MOTIV Managing Director Carly Cottam, who has been appointed to market the project, said buyer attention had continued to move south along the Gold Coast.

"Purchasers who may once have defaulted to Broadbeach, Main Beach or Surfers Paradise are increasingly recognising the value of a genuine beachfront location that offers lower density, strong amenity and a more established sense of community," Cottam said.

"Kirra has a powerful combination of growing demand and genuine scarcity. Beachfront supply is inherently constrained, the area remains relatively low density, and buyers are increasingly placing a premium on locations that feel established, uncrowded and authentic rather than heavily developed."

Cottam said the proximity to Gold Coast Airport was also proving increasingly important for interstate and second-home buyers.

"Being minutes from Gold Coast Airport makes it particularly compelling for interstate buyers, frequent travellers and second-home purchasers who can access an authentic coastal lifestyle almost immediately after stepping off a flight."

The acquisition takes MAYD's active development portfolio to more than $500 million, with the North Kirra project representing one of its largest undertakings to date.

MAYD is targeting an early 2027 launch.

Joel Robinson

First look at MAYD's North Kirra mixed-use precinct

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Castle Hill, the longtime hub of the Hills District, has been one of the major beneficiaries of Sydney's Metro expansion, with improved connectivity helping drive continued population growth, development and buyer demand across the Hills District.

But despite that growth, the suburb has seen relatively few major new apartment projects brought to market over the past 18 months.

Hills District developer Reve Group is looking to fill that gap with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/nova-r-ve-castle-hill-2-garthowen-crescent-castle-hill-nsw-2154">Nova Rêve</a>, a major new mixed-use precinct on the corner of Garthowen Crescent and Old Castle Hill Road, a short walk from Castle Hill Metro Station and Castle Towers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377679]

The project will comprise three residential towers alongside a hotel, restaurants, cafes and a skybar, more than 1,600 sqm of ground-floor retail and almost an acre of landscaped gardens.

It represents the largest project undertaken by Reve Group, the development arm of the Kassis family, which has been building across the Hills District for more than 30 years through Kassis Homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377675]

Nova Rêve also represents a significant step up from the family's first apartment development, Grand Rêve, which was delivered nearby on Garthowen Crescent.

Grand Rêve introduced larger, house-like apartment layouts and premium inclusions including Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances to the Castle Hill market.

Nova Rêve takes that approach to a precinct scale, combining the residential component with hospitality, retail and substantial public and resident landscaping.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377685]

Reve Group Managing Director Sam Kassis said the project reflected the family's three decades of building in the Hills, which has evolved from trophy homes on quarter-acre blocks to larger-scale apartment development.

"Grand Rêve was our first apartment project here and it showed us what this pocket of Castle Hill could be. Nova Rêve is the refinement of that idea: not just apartments, but a place the whole suburb can use," Kassis said.

A key part of that approach is the hotel, which has been designed to operate as an amenity for the wider Castle Hill community rather than solely hotel guests.

It will include restaurants, cafes, skybars and all-day dining, alongside conference and event facilities catering to business functions, community groups and private events.

At ground level, more than 1,600 sqm of shops and cafes will open onto the surrounding streets and landscaped areas.

Almost an acre of gardens designed by Land and Form Studios will run through the precinct, incorporating pathways, seating, barbecue areas and children's play spaces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377680]

Reve Group's Romio Georges said creating an active ground plane had been central to the planning of Nova Rêve.

"There are gardens with pathways, barbecues, seating and play areas, shops and cafes opening onto the street, and a hotel with restaurants and a skybar that anyone in Castle Hill can walk into," Georges said.

The project's elevated position on one of Sydney's highest ridgelines will also provide apartments with outlooks toward the Sydney skyline, surrounding parkland and the Blue Mountains.

More than 80 per cent of the apartments will occupy corner positions, with Turner responsible for both the architecture and interiors.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152737]

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Nova Rêve arrives as Reve Group bets on Castle Hill's next growth phase

A collection of just 25 large-format apartments and penthouses overlooking Goodwin Park is entering the Coolangatta market, with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/marea-residences-coolangatta-27-27a-dixon-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Maréa Residences</a> combining a low-density, residential-only approach with uninterrupted park and Pacific Ocean outlooks.

Located at 27 Dixon Street, Maréa comprises three and four-bedroom residences alongside a limited number of dual-level penthouses, with the project positioned between Goodwin Park and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/coolangatta-qld-4225">Coolangatta</a>’s coastal precinct.

Construction has commenced, with completion currently estimated for late 2027. Three-bedroom residences are priced from $1.8 million.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150999 project_image_fid=374005]

The project has been designed around its northern outlook across the park, with the building’s architecture, landscaping and material palette intended to establish a connection with the neighbouring green space. The residences have been configured to maximise natural light and views across Goodwin Park towards the ocean.

Inside, the material palette incorporates timber, stone and brushed brass, complemented by curved detailing and ambient lighting. Kitchens and bathrooms carry the same natural material approach, while residences also include basement parking, storage and lift access.

Maréa’s penthouses are arranged over two levels and include private pools, adding another layer to the project’s focus on larger-format apartment living. Across the development, residences are configured with three or four bedrooms rather than the broader mix of smaller apartment types commonly found in larger projects.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150999 project_image_fid=374010]

Resident amenity is concentrated at rooftop level, where landscaped entertaining terraces and pools take advantage of elevated views across Coolangatta and the Pacific Ocean.

The project has so far been particularly well received by local owner-occupiers and downsizers, according to Urban Activation Property Sales and Marketing Director Matt George, with the residential-only format, construction quality and northern park outlook among the features resonating with purchasers.

“The uninterrupted northern aspect overlooking Goodwin Park has been a key point of difference, with buyers attracted to the sense of serenity and open space the park provides, while still enjoying easy access to the ocean and being within walking distance of the lifestyle and amenities Coolangatta has to offer,” George said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150999 project_image_fid=374002]

“The combination of high-quality construction, a residential-only building, park outlook and proximity to the beach has resonated strongly with the local downsizer market.”

The Dixon Street address is within walking distance of Coolangatta Beach and the broader southern Gold Coast coastline, including the surf breaks at Snapper Rocks and Kirra. Coolangatta’s cafés, restaurants and retail are nearby, while Gold Coast Airport is also within close proximity.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150999]

Maréa Residences brings parkside apartments to Coolangatta

Melbourne developer PDG has secured Victorian Government approval for its $1.5 billion Southbank development <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-one-1-queens-bridge-street-southbank-vic-3006">The One</a>, clearing the way for the long-dormant riverfront site opposite Crown to finally be developed.

The Minister for Planning has approved the project at 1-29 Queens Bridge Street, with the Department of Transport and Planning issuing the planning permit following its assessment.

The approval will allow PDG to develop the prominent 5,059 sqm site with a major mixed-use tower comprising premium apartments, including branded residences, a luxury hotel and boutique office space.

PDG acquired the site in late 2024, with its position directly opposite Crown's main entrance and near Melbourne's Arts Precinct making it one of Southbank's most significant remaining development opportunities.

<img alt="PDG" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3933013e-6332-4386-b9be-089df05caf17" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-27%20at%209.29.22%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=sITIgBqDL0N3VNSMwWEmF5UA.uvcsRyu" />

Designed by COX in collaboration with ODO and PDG, the tower's architecture draws on the movement of the Yarra River, with six vertical pleats running the height of the sculpted facade.

The project will also see the heritage-listed Queens Bridge Hotel restored and incorporated into the development&nbsp;with new hospitality and public uses, including a rooftop venue.

A significant component of The One will be its residential amenity.

More than 5,000 sqm of resident facilities will be delivered across a single level, making it one of the largest consolidated residential amenity offerings proposed in an Australian apartment development.

The planning approval also incorporates a major upgrade of Queensbridge Square, which PDG will deliver in partnership with the City of Melbourne.

<img alt="PDG" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="73167fcd-1031-4b6f-a408-a064cfe45ed1" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-27%20at%209.29.17%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=Pf1AEWxw6SNmBqR0zQW5lyEze.MtxgFp" />

The existing square will be revitalised as a new civic and pedestrian space along the Yarra River, strengthening the connection between the project, Southbank and the riverfront.

PDG Founder and Managing Director Vince Giuliano said the approval represented a major milestone for a site which has remained largely underutilised for more than 15 years.

“This is the most significant Planning Permit approval Melbourne has seen in recent years,” Giuliano said.

“For more than 15 years, this site has remained underutilised. This approval enables us to deliver a project that will contribute meaningfully to the revitalisation of Southbank, restore and reactivate an important heritage building, and create a new civic and hospitality destination for Melbourne.”

The latest approval follows an earlier planning permit issued by the City of Melbourne covering demolition works across part of the site at 9-29 Queens Bridge Street. Those demolition and early works are already underway.

PDG has also started generating early interest in the residential component from owner-occupiers ahead of a planned public launch in early 2027.

PDG secures approval for $1.5bn Southbank apartment development, The One

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

Jessie Richardson

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