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While every expert surveyed by Finder this month predicted interest rates would stay on hold this month, many are expecting to see rates rise next year.
Of the 33 respondents, 30 think interest rates will begin to increase in 2015, with just one – <a href="/expert-insights/finance/domain-groups-andrew-wilson-predicts-rba-will-cut-rates-further">Andrew Wilson of Domain Group</a> – predicting the next move will be a decrease.
A third of the experts surveyed predict interest rates will peak at 4-4.25% within the next three years.
The overnight cash rate was last at 4.25% in April 2012, after dropping from 4.5% in November 2011.
When rates first dropped, NAB offered its standard variable lending rate at 7.47%, while Westpac and ANZ both cut their standard rate to 7.55%.
Currently, ANZ offers its standard variable loan at 5.88%, with a comparison rate of 5.98%. For a $500,000 loan, a borrower is likely to pay $4,025 per month, with $272,685 interest payable.
If the rate was bumped back up to 7.55%, monthly repayments would likely increase by $469 per month to $4,494, with total $362,770 interest payable.
Finder's Michelle Hutchison says if the cash rate hits 4%, borrowers with a $300,000 loan will need "a buffer of at least $300 per month".
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jrichardson-uRX5hFdKfN

How would a 4.25% interest rate impact you?

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There were 364,013 properties listed in October, 4.9% more than the same time last year, according to SQM Research.
The result was up 7.3% from this September, a result <a href="https://www.sqmresearch.com.au/" target="_blank">SQM Research</a> managing director Louis Christopher says was not surprising.
"The month recorded a rather large surge in listings, which were expected, given the slow start to the spring selling season," says Christopher.
SQM Research attributes the yearly increase in unsold properties on the market to a few capital cities in particular. Perth stock on the market was up 18.9% year on year.
The greatest annual increase, however, was recorded in Darwin. Stock levels were 31.9% higher than October 2013, with a total of 1,851 homes on the market.
Hobart was the only city to record a yearly downturn in stock levels, which were 0.2% lower than they were this time last year at 4,227 homes.
On a monthly basis, Sydney had the highest stock increase with 21.9%. There were 24,826 properties in total on the market in the New South Wales capital.
"Despite the listings surge in Sydney, our information is telling us that the market remains very strong for now," Christopher says.
The result is considered by SQM Research to be an "abnormal surge".
Declines in listed stock were not recorded in any of Australia's capital cities in October, although Melbourne offered the slightest increase of 2.6%. A total of 44,140 Melbourne homes were unsold and on the market last month.
 
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Surge in listings after slow start to spring: SQM Research

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A $6.56 million waterfront mansion was the week's most expensive sale, according to RP Data.
Brookfield, a circa 1898 home, has remained in the same hands since 1955. The mansion sits on a 607 square metre block, with north-east facing gardens.
It cleared the pre-Melbourne Cup week's next most expensive home, a Hunters Hill waterfront house, by $2.36 million. The week's top three sales were all secured by McGrath Estate Agents.
RP Data's top 10 sales:
<a href="https://www.domain.com.au/property/for-sale/house/nsw/balmain-east/?adid=2011458628" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-one.jpg" alt="">5 Simmons Street, Balmain East, NSW, 2041</a> <img src="/images/2014/11/04/1.jpg" alt="">
The four bedroom period home sold prior to auction on November 1 through McGrath Estate Agents. It features two wraparound balconies with direct views to the harbour, and an absolute waterfront position.
The house comes with a boat house and two slipways.
<a href="https://www.domain.com.au/property/for-sale/apartment-unit-flat/nsw/sydney/?adid=2011500391" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-two.jpg" alt="">5 Kareelah Road, Hunters Hill, NSW, 2110</a> <img src="/images/2014/11/04/2.jpg" alt=""> This Hunters Hill home sold for $4.2 million on October 31. The contemporary waterfront home is situated on 1,152 square metres on a cul-de-sac.
There are boating facilities including a shared jetty and a drop of pontoon, while the home has a swimming pool which offers city views. Inside, there are four bedrooms, a formal living room that opens onto the outdoor terrace and a rumpus room with courtyard access.
The vendors purchased the property for $900,000 in April 1997.
<a href="https://www.domain.com.au/property/for-sale/apartment-unit-flat/nsw/sydney/?adid=2011500391" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-three.jpg" alt="">33/5 Macquarie Street, Sydney, NSW, 2000</a> <img src="/images/2014/11/04/3.jpg" alt=""> An apartment in the Bennelong complex sold for $3.7 million through McGrath Estate agents. The three bedroom unit has views over the Harbour Bridge and the Botanic Gardens, with two undercover balconies, accessible from all three bedrooms.
With 175 square metres of floor space, the apartment has two spa bathrooms (one an en suite) and an open plan living and dining area.
The seller paid $2.28 million for the unit in 2000. In 2012, it was advertised to rent at $2,500 per week.
<a href="https://www.belleproperty.com/2P6154" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-four.jpg" alt="">20 Ryries Parade, Cremorne, NSW, 2090</a>
<img src="/images/2014/11/04/4.jpg" alt=""> This Cremorne house sold at auction on November 1 for $3,675,000 through Belle Property Mosman.
The home, structured as a series of wings, has five bedrooms, a home office, a media room, 250 bottle cellar, a workshop, a dining room and open plan living area, with a central glassed-in terrace. There are multiple balconies, with full height windows and glass doors.
The home cost $3.7 million in 2006, with the vendors making a loss at its sale this week.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-vaucluse-117960815" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-five.jpg" alt="">111 New South Head Road, Vaucluse, NSW, 2030</a>
<img src="/images/2014/11/04/5.jpg" alt="">
Laing + Simmons Double Bay auctioned this Mediterranean-inspired house for $3.58 million.
The house, which centres around its outdoor pool, has remained in the same family's hands for 33 years. According to the listing information, there's "further potential to capitalise on a northerly aspect", with a 730 square metre level plot.
The house comes with four and a half bathrooms, front and rear gardens, a formal living room and formal dining room, and informal living and dining areas.
Article continues on the next page. Please click below.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-brighton-118055711" target="_blank"></a>
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<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-brighton-118055711" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-six.jpg" alt="">2 Spink Street, Brighton, VIC, 3186</a> <img src="/images/2014/11/04/6.jpg" alt="">
A $3,525,000 Brighton house is the only Victorian home to appear on this week's top 10 list. The four-bedroom warehouse conversion was sold after auction by Hocking Stuart Brighton.
The home is set over three storeys, with four living zones, a cinema, a wine cellar and study areas. Situated on a corner block, the house also comes with an adjoining commercial space and a rooftop pool.
The sellers paid $850,000 in 2007.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-vaucluse-118070319" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-seven.jpg" alt="">8 Coolong Road, Vaucluse, NSW, 2030</a> <img src="/images/2014/11/04/7.jpg" alt=""> An Allen Jack+Cottier-designed modernist style house sold for $3.5 million through Richardson &amp; Wrench Double Bay this week.
The five bedroom house has exposed brick walls and "Scandanavian inspired retro vibes" according to the listing. With two storeys, the house has a living room with a balcony, a master wing, study, and a formal living room with walled garden.
It has remained in the same family for 30 years.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-bellevue+hill-118068259" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-eight.jpg" alt="">31 Bundarra Road, Bellevue Hill, NSW, 2023</a> <img src="/images/2014/11/04/8.jpg" alt=""> This four bedroom house sold as a deceased estate through BradfieldCleary Double Bay for $3.46 million.
The home sits on a 720 square metre block, with three bedrooms with balconies and built ins and a fourth study or bedroom. It has north facing living and dining areas and a rumpus room which opens onto the garden.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-linley+point-118124843" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-nine.jpg" alt="">14 Haughton Street, Linley Point, NSW, 2066</a>
<img src="/images/2014/11/04/9.jpg" alt=""> Selling prior to auction, this three bedroom house secured $3.2 million through Blunts Real Estate Lane Cove.
The 1960s brick house, which its listing describes as "an ideal candidate for a cosmetic renovation", sits on an 815 square metre plot with views over the city and Harbour Bridge. It has three bathrooms, a kitchen and meals area, a lounge and dining space which opens onto the patio.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-hunters+hill-117851003" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-ten.jpg" alt="">24 Mary Street, Hunters Hill, NSW, 2110</a>
<img src="/images/2014/11/04/hunters%20hill%20nov%205.jpg" alt="">
A four-bedroom house was sold on October 28 by McGrath Estate Agents for $2.95 million.
The second Hunters Hill residence on this week's top 10 list, it has various entertaining and living spaces. The 613 square metre property has a heated swimming pool and spa, outdoor entertaining areas and a double car port. Inside, there is an attic retreat, 2,000 bottle cellar, and a commercial grade cool room.
The vendors bought the home four years ago for $2.45 million.
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Brookfield at Balmain East tops week’s sales: RP Data

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Darwin investors are earning higher rental yields than landlords in any other Australian capital city, according to RP Data.
The Northern Territory city stands apart from most other capitals, where home values have outperformed rental growth, says RP Data head of research Tim Lawless.
"With rents being substantially outpaced by dwelling values, the rental yield scenario is slimmest Melbourne where the typical house is achieving gross yield of just 3.3% while Sydney's average yields aren't a great deal higher at 3.7%," Lawless says.
"Darwin and Hobart are showing a much healthier yield profile with the typical dwelling providing gross yield of 5.4% and 5.9% respectively."
House rental yields by capital city:
<ol>
<li>Darwin: 5.9% Median price: $570,000 
</li>
<li>Hobart: 5.4% Median price: $330,000 
</li>
<li>Brisbane: 4.5% Median price: $470,000 
</li>
<li>Canberra: 4.2% Median price: $566,000 
</li>
<li>Adelaide: 4.2% Median price: $415,000 
</li>
<li>Perth: 4.1% Median price: $540,000 
</li>
<li>Sydney: 3.6% Median price: $792,000 
</li>
<li>Melbourne: 3.2% Median price: $615,000</li>
</ol>
Rental yields for units are on the next page. Please click below. 
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
Unit rental yields by capital city:
<ol>
<li>Darwin: 6.0% Median price: $536,200 
</li>
<li>Hobart: 5.4% Median price: $250,000 
</li>
<li>Brisbane: 5.4% Median price: $380,000 
</li>
<li>Canberra: 4.9% Median price: $398,500 
</li>
<li>Adelaide: 4.7% Median price: $333,000 
</li>
<li>Perth: 4.7% Median price: $450,000 
</li>
<li>Sydney: 4.5% Median price: $590,000 
</li>
<li>Melbourne: 4.1% Median price: $472,000</li>
</ol>
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Which capital cities have the highest (and lowest) rental yields?

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Name: Chris Knight
<img src="/images/2014/07/23/knight-july-23-profile.png" alt="" style="float: right;">Position: Managing director
Company: Opteon Property Group Victoria
Office Location: Melbourne
How long have you been in the industry?
I have been employed with Opteon (Victoria) since 2006 and was appointed to the position of managing director in 2011. I previously held roles including director of residential services, operations manager and senior valuer and have been immersed in the industry for almost 17 years.
What's happening in the area you specialise in?
I've just spent some time in the US to understand other property markets and how they are innovating. Australian companies, especially those in property, are often not strong in areas of innovation and that's a key aspect we're concentrating on.
From a tactical level we are breaking down traditional product silos and focusing more on geography where practical. Training of our people is of key importance to us, and this means our staff can more easily cross product environments and increase their learning and career potential.
Describe the most interesting commercial property you have worked on.
Opteon have key specialisations in almost all aspects of property and assets, and as such we see an enormous variety of interesting properties and projects.
We are regularly involved in providing advice on multi-level and multi-use residential and commercial development projects, as well as valuing pubs and hotels, petrol stations and most other forms of special use commercial property.
We are involved in landlord and tenant disputes, family law advice regarding the assessment of asset portfolios as well as the advice for the property aspect of land acquisition for public use, including road widenings and other public services.
One of particular interest, however, was the valuation of a WWII Mustang fighter aircraft undertaken by our head of plant and equipment. The assessment of value of this aircraft was quite in-depth and very interesting.
What are the ingredients to being successful in your job?
One of my favourite sayings is "a business that stands still is actually moving backwards". I think the ingredients to being successful in any job or industry is identifying how you can continue to get the most out of yourself and the people around you, and continue to push yourself beyond the 'comfort zone' and shake up the traditional way of thinking.
In essence, be prepared to do things differently.
Being successful in my role is ensuring that those around me are successful also, and to create an environment where I enjoy my work, and where others do too.
What aspects of your role do you enjoy the most?
I am passionate about creating something different, not just another property company. Setting a positive culture, assisting people to reach their goals and aligning goals of staff to those of a business is really important to me. I enjoy creating highly effective teams, which have a client and delivery focus.
Where would you invest a spare $750,000?
Firstly, I would only invest in something that I understood, which for me is obviously property. The other important aspect is to have a clear strategy (short/medium/long term etc).
However, invariably I would look to an asset class which could attract debt, provide a good yield (preferably covering debt requirements), whilst also having good potential for strong capital growth, whether that be through change in the utilisation of the land component, further development or strong market growth through demand.
But there is one constant in this strategy, and that is land; my opinion is you must have land in the asset, as that is the key component, which will appreciate in value. Asset classes such as residential development or commercial assets with a strong land component would be of interest.
Which football team do you support?
Geelong Football Club.
What is your favourite app or techno gadget?
I confess to having a bent at the moment to Sudoku apps that I use in my downtime, although I do use apps such as UrbanSpoon, Strava and <a href="https://au.linkedin.com/in/knightc" target="_blank">LinkedIn</a> on a regular basis.
How do you use social media?
As a business, social media is an invaluable tool that enables us to understand and connect with our target audience. We use this medium on a regular basis to build and differentiate the brand of the company and the individuals within it.
It also permits us to communicate effectively in real time and keep abreast of industry developments.
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In profile: Opteon Property Group Victoria's managing director, Chris Knight  

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A month out from a state election, the Victorian Napthine government has seriously stung the state's real estate agents.
Last week, the government announced that agents handling the sale or lease of commercial real estate valued over $15 million or at with floor space of least 10,000 square metres will no longer need a licence.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://twitter.com/geoffwhite/status/527206198949314560" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2014/10/29/tweet-oct-29-one.jpg" alt=""></a>
Some licensed real estate agents, including Geoff White of Lucas Real Estate, aren't happy.
The Real Estate Institute of Victoria has already pledged $1 million to campaign against the government's changes, which it claims will damage small business and increase risks for consumers as agents may not be required to use trust accounts or have insurance.
The Coalition government claims the measures will "reduce red tape".
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Real estate agents push back against Napthine's reforms: Tweet of the day

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The former home of television producer turned resort entrepreneur Henry Crawford and his wife Nina Hill has been listed for auction.
The couple sold The Stables in Clovelly for $2.4 million in 2004 to the current vendors.<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-clovelly-118213759" target="_blank"> It is now listed</a> through Chris Volpatti and Conrad Panebianco of McGrath Coogee with $3.25 million plus expectations.
Crawford and Hill gave the converted stables an Asian-inspired renovation the year before selling. The four bedroom house is now described as an "eclectic fusion of tropical resort style aesthetics with state-of-the-art bespoke inclusions" by the listing agents.
The dark façade of the home belies its light-filled interiors, with high raked ceilings with exposed timber beams. The Stables retain many of its original timber floorboards, with trap doors formerly used to throw hay to its original early 1900s inhabitants.
{qtube vid:=xafIwZ_3vPE}
The ground floor holds a number of entertaining and break out areas. There is a lounge and gym area, a games room and media room with built in cabinetry and Sonos wiring, with a studio towards the back of the house with a kitchen and butler's pantry.
On the upper level, there are three bedrooms and a gallery area. The kitchen, dining, living and master bedroom all have a view to the covered alfresco entertaining area on the upper level, which features a plunge pool.
The current owners have quite the art collection, with work by artists including David Bromley and Bill Henson hanging on the walls. A large mural covers two walls of one of the home gym.
After beginning his career as an actor and lawyer, Crawford joined Crawford Productions, at that time one of Australia's largest production companies, owned by distant relatives Dorothy and Hector Crawford. He went on to produce about 1,000 hours of drama before he decided to try his hand at the tourism industry, building Vatulele, a luxury "eco-sensitive" resort in Fiji.
Crawford is now on the Urban Design Panel at the Queenstown District Lakes Council in New Zealand.
1 Greville Street will be auctioned on Saturday 15 November.
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Henry Crawford's former Clovelly conversion on the market

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Ardoch Youth Foundation will receive a portion of the sale price of a St Kilda East apartment block after it is auctioned today.
Selling agents Hodges St Kilda will also contribute a portion of their commission to the charity.
The apartment block at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-unitblock-vic-st+kilda+east-118045907" target="_blank">105 Westbury Street</a>, on a 760 square metre plot, was formerly a halfway house. There are now two period apartments on the site and a three level town house at the rear of the plot.
According to listing information, the property falls within the General Residential Zone, which allows multi-unit development, subject to council approval. It's located within walking distance of Carlisle Street and Balaclava cafes and restaurants.
Vendor Andrew Robinson, who has owned the five-apartment block for almost 25 years, will be making a donation. He is a volunteer for the Ardoch Youth Foundation and runs music classes for disadvantaged young people.
The Ardoch Youth Foundation provides education services for young people experiencing barriers to education. They support Port Phillip Bay schools including St Kilda Primary, Elwood College and Elwood Primary School.
The auction of 105 Westbury Street will take place at 1pm, 29 October.
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Slice of proceeds from St Kilda East sale to go to local charity

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A two bedroom house surrounded by gardens was the cheapest sold at weekend auction in Adelaide.
Kristy Dundon of Harris Real Estate sold the house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-sa-blackwood-118120775" target="_blank">20 Brightwood Avenue</a>, Blackwood for $450,000.
The home is located in Blackwood, at the foot of the Adelaide hills.
On the lower level there is a kitchen and dining room, bedroom, bathroom and living area that opens onto an outdoor entertaining deck. The mezzanine level holds the main bedroom and a living space. Double height windows look onto the property's well established gardens, set over 898 square metres of land.
The property also includes a separate studio, a double carport and storage under the house.
The sellers bought the home for $173,000 in 2000.
<a href="/news">Blackwood</a> has a median sale price of $480,000, according to RP Data.
Earlier this year Property Observer's contrarian commentators Jonathan Chancellor and Margie Blok debated <a href="/expert-insights/investing/a-frame-houses-do-they-work-he-said-she-said">the merits of the A-frame design</a>.
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A-frame Blackwood home Adelaide’s cheapest at auction

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Seven of the 10 most expensive sales of the week were in Victoria, according to RP Data.
But it wasn't enough to push New South Wales out of the top spot, with the <a href="/expert-insights/buying/darlinghurst-apartment-sells-prior-to-auction-for-5-million">$5 million sale</a> of a Darlinghurst apartment in The Residence.
A Federation era Camberwell estate took out the next highest ranking. The four bedroom renovated home sold for $4.45 million.
RP Data's top 10:
<img src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-one.jpg" alt="">71/18 College Street, Darlinghurst, NSW <img class="img-responsive" src="/images/2014/10/27/darlinghurst_0000_1.jpg.jpg" alt="Darlinghurst apartment sells prior to auction for $5 million"> 
The three bedroom, three bathroom apartment on the 16th floor in the north east corner of The Residence sold for $5 million pre-auction through Laing Real Estate Elizabeth Bay.
It was purchased by the seller for $4.8 million in November 2012.
<a href="https://www.domain.com.au/property/for-sale/house/vic/camberwell/?adid=2011471983" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-two.jpg" alt="">22 Victoria Road, Camberwell, Vic</a>
 <img src="/images/2014/10/28/2camber.jpg" alt="">
Tavistock was designed by Ussher and Kemp, the prolific Federation era Melbourne architects who made their mark throughout Melbourne's eastern suburbs. The four bedroom, four three bathroom house has been renovated and extended. Each of the bedrooms has built in robes, while the master bedroom has an adjoining nursery or dressing room.
The home has a north facing sitting room with a marble open fire place, a formal dining room and a living area which extends outside to an entertaining deck with a barbecue kitchen and a pool.
It was sold for $4.45 million through Jellis Craig Hawthorn.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-canterbury-118042839" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-three.jpg" alt="">19 Victoria Avenue, Canterbury, Vic</a> <img src="/images/2014/10/28/3.jpg" alt="">
This single storey Canterbury home sold for $4 million through Kay &amp; Burton Hawthorn. The period residence, with interiors renovated by Neil Architecture, sits on a 1,200 square metre landscaped plot.
The house features hardwood floors throughout, with multiple living and entertaining areas, four bedrooms, two bathrooms and a study. In the west-facing backyard, there is a pool and pool house.
Vendors paid $706,000 for the house in Canterbury's tree lined Victoria Avenue for $706,000 in 1990.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-williamstown-117978587" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-four.jpg" alt="">45 The Strand, Williamstown, Vic</a> <img src="/images/2014/10/28/4.jpg" alt="">
The only Melbourne home west of the CBD to crack to the top 10 this week was a three bedroom Williamstown offering. The bayside house sold for $3,876,000 through Greg Hocking Elly Partners Williamstown.
The 1985 house sits on a 721 square metre plot with 21 metre frontage to The Strand, which runs along the bay. City and bay views are available from almost every room of the home. The house also includes an indoor pool, spa and bar.
Despite its high price, the vendors made a loss on the home, having purchased it in November 2007 for $4,175,000.
<a href="https://www.11malinst.com/" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-five.jpg" alt="">11 Malin Street, Kew, Vic</a> <img src="/images/2014/10/28/5.jpg" alt="">
A contemporary home in Melbourne's private school belt sold for $3.61 million through Jellis Craig Hawthorn last week.
The four bedroom house on a 627 square metres has limestone floors, wool carpets and double glazed windows. There are three bathrooms, a lounge and dining area with a wet bar and kitchenette, a main kitchen with butler's pantry, home cinema and store room or cellar.
The living and dining area opens via stacker doors onto an outdoor entertaining area via stacker doors, which overlooks a pool.
Vendors purchased the property for $1,225,000 in 2009.
Article continues on the next page. Please click below.
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<a href="https://www.domain.com.au/property/for-sale/house/vic/st-kilda-west/?adid=2011454310" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-six.jpg" alt="">356 Beaconsfield Parade, St Kilda West, Vic</a> <img src="/images/2014/10/28/6.jpg" alt=""> After 33 years of ownership, the vendor of this modest two bedroom home sold it for $3.2 million.
The St Kilda brick house on a 296 square metre corner plot is located opposite Catani Gardens and within walking distance of Fitzroy Street. The home has 10.1 metres of frontage.
The home currently has a central living room, a double garage and a private courtyard. It sold through Cayzer Real Estate.
<a href="https://www.domain.com.au/property/for-sale/apartment-unit-flat/vic/toorak/?adid=2011475018" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-seven.jpg" alt="">2/18 Grange Road, Toorak, Vic</a> <img src="/images/2014/10/28/7.jpg" alt=""> A first floor apartment in Toorak sold for $3.17 million through RT Edgar Toorak. One of three in the complex, the apartment was designed by the late Melbourne architect Wayne Gillespie.
The apartment with ornate furnishings is situated directly opposite the Toorak Village, and features a wide gallery hallway, granite kitchen and a living and dining area that opens onto an entertaining terrace.
The home also includes three bedrooms, a home theatre room and parking for two cars. The sellers bought it in November 2010 for $3.05 million
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-mona+vale-118267899" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-eight.jpg" alt="">24 Rednal Street, Mona Vale, NSW</a> <img src="/images/2014/10/28/8.jpg" alt=""> This four bedroom, four bathroom waterfront home sold for $3.15 million through LJ Hooker Collaroy, the first time it's changed hands in 30 years.
The house has a family living area with wet bar, a formal dining area and a formal lounge with a sandstone fireplace. It features an entertaining terrace, a pool, sauna and lawns that extend to the water's edge.
The property also includes a slipway, a boat storage room and a deep waterfront berth.
24 Rednal Street sold after almost a full year on the market. The owners previously listed it briefly in 2006 with a price guide of $2.1 million, and again in 2010.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-double+bay-118019155" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-nine.jpg" alt="">8 Epping Road, Double Bay, NSW</a> <img src="/images/2014/10/28/9.jpg" alt=""> Raine &amp; Horne Double Bay sold this four bedroom, two bathroom house for $3.1 million.
Sitting on a dual access 273 square metre level block, the house opens onto the garden area, with a heated plunge pool. Each of the double sized bedrooms offers direct outdoor access.
The house was purchased by the vendors in March 2001, who paid $1,667,000.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-black+rock-118039583" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-ten.jpg" alt="">26 Love Street, Black Rock, Vic</a> <img src="/images/2014/10/28/10.jpg" alt=""> This north facing bayside home sold for $3.1 million through Buxton Sandringham.
The house has four bedrooms and three bathrooms, with a home office and was built by Pascall Projects. The master wing on the home's lower level features a double ensuite with an Apaiser Stone bath and a mirrored dressing room.
The large kitchen has a butler's pantry, while the lower level living space opens to the outside, with a pool, decks and a pond.
Vendors bought the 606 square metre property for $730,000 in 2004.
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Victorian prestige homes dominate RP Data's top 10 sales of the week

Joel Robinson

First Look: Sherlock Construction pitches apartments for low-rise Deception Bay

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.

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.

Jessie Richardson

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