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Channel 7's renovation reality TV show House Rules begins its latest season tonight.
House Rules and Better Homes and Gardens host Johanna Griggs doesn't just look at good renovations for the screen – she also runs a construction company with her husband, builder Todd Huggins. Griggs tells Property Observer about her top tips for DIY renovators:
<ol>
<li>
Ask yourself: How do you want your home to feel? Some people can get distracted by paint swatches, measurements and floor plans. But Griggs says it's important to understand what you want from your renovation before making any major decisions. "A lot of people can look at plans and not have an idea of how it's going to look", said Griggs. Although it may seem obvious, renovators should understand how they want to live in their home. "The first the we ask people is: How do they want their home to feel? "How are they going to use their home?" This includes considering how the house will work when it's full of people, if you intend to entertain. Griggs noted her own teenage boys, and the importance of designing a home where each family member has enough space and privacy. 
</li>
<li>
Think about how your home interacts with outside spaces Don't just get carried away with matching interiors – think about your entire property. "I find that one of the most important things when you design a home," said Griggs. "What do you want to see when you look out the windows, and what do you not want to see?" She encourages renovators and home builders to consider how their home will interact with its site and surrounding environment. 
</li>
<li>
Make a mood board "Most people have a thousands of photos of their kids on their phones," said Griggs. "I have lighting channels and toilet roll holder photos." To help clarify your ideas, Griggs recommends making a moodboard or creating another system to lay out your ideas visually. "I think it's really important that if you love something, you take a photo of it," she said. Cutting out images from magazines and laying them out in front of yourself can help you decide what you like and don't like, says Griggs. For those who prefer the digital route, there are plenty of sites like Instagram or Pinterest where you can collect ideas. The process of mood boarding is particularly useful for those who aren't used to making decisions about interior details, Griggs said.</li>
</ol>
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jrichardson-uRX5hFdKfN

 House Rules: Johanna Griggs' top three renovation tips

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The public believe real estate agents are less trustworthy than politicians, insurance brokers and lawyers, according to the latest Roy Morgan Image of Professions survey.
Real estate agents have been deemed the third-most dishonest professionals in the country, with only 9% of Australians aged 14 and over judging them the most trustworthy profession. Only car salesmen (at 4%) and advertising people (at 5%) are considered less trustworthy.
Real estate agents' honesty was also at the same level last year. Since 1987, agents' reputation has remained at a similar level, between 7% and 12%.
Real Estate Institute of Australia chief executive Amanda Lynch told <a href="https://www.rebonline.com.au/breaking-news/8986-agents-judged-less-honest-than-politicians-and-lawyers" target="_blank">Real Estate Business</a> agents' poor reputation is not based in reality.
"The only way to address this perception is to maintain high-quality training and standards, and continue to fight against the proliferation of three-day quickie qualifications which are offered by outliers in the industry," she told the publication.
Roy Morgan's telephone survey was conducted in the evenings between 8 April and 10 April, with 598 respondents aged 14 and over.
The most trustworthy professionals nationally were nurses, with 92% of respondents considering them the most trustworthy professionals.
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Real estate agents among the least trusted professionals in the country: Roy Morgan

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Sydney recorded an 89% auction clearance rate this week, according to Australian Property Monitors.
Of the 580 auctions reported, 530 sold and 15 were withdrawn.
One that was passed in on Saturday was <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/property/for-sale/house/nsw/sylvania/?adid=2011939600" target="_blank">8 Canberra Road in Sylvania</a> (pictured below), in southern Sydney. Listed by Exclusively Property with a $1.26 million price guide, the four bedroom house was passed in $1,205,000. The 15 year old property remains listed at $1.26 million.
<img src="/images/2015/05/04/sylvania%20may%204.jpg" alt=""> According to listing agent Vanessa White, the vendors are still keen to get $1.26 million for the home.
"And that's their prerogative as the vendor, isn't it," she says. "We're not in the business of giving homes away for free, we've got to try to get the best price."
The single level, four bedroom house sits on a 721 square metre plot.
Another that failed to sell at auction this weekend was <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/property/for-sale/house/nsw/auburn/?adid=2011889186" target="_blank">8 Pine Road in Auburn</a> (pictured above).
The three bedroom house was passed in at its auction on Saturday afternoon. The north-facing, 505 square metre site is zoned R3, which allows medium density redevelopment with the council's consent.
The house has one bathroom, two kitchen and multiple entertaining areas. After failing to sell at auction, it has been relisted at $1,020,000.
Closer to the city, <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/for-sale/104c-wells-street-newtown-nsw-2042-2011895750" target="_blank">104c Wells Street</a> (pictured below), a three bedroom, attached house in Newtown was passed in at $1.29 million. The renovated period house is on a tight 108 square metre site. Listing agent Hugh Mcfarlan of Raine &amp; Horne Chatswood/Willoughby, who marketed the property, tells Property Observer the auction saw competitive bidding, with three active bidders.
While the bidders didn't get to the vendor's desired price under the hammer, the property is currently under contract after negotiations with one of the bidders, with a price above $1.3 million.
<img src="/images/2015/05/04/newtown%20may%204.jpg" alt=""> <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/property/for-sale/house/nsw/chatswood/?adid=2011890153" target="_blank">15 Centennial Avenue in Chatswood</a> (pictured below) was listed with a price guide over $3 million. The four bedroom, two bathroom property comes with development approval for two separate units, with 11 bedrooms total. The north-east facing corner site is located close to Chatswood High School and the railway station.
<img src="/images/2015/05/04/chatswood%20may%204.jpg" alt="">
The home passed in at auction at $3 million. It's understood the vendors have expectations around $3.4 million to $3.5 million, and negotiations are taking place with a bidder who put in a $3.25 million offer. Vendors paid $418,000 for the property in October 1994.
In Bronte, <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-bronte-119412567" target="_blank">144A Hewlett Street</a> (pictured below) was passed in at $5.1 million. The contemporary home by architect Michael Folk has four bedrooms and three bathrooms, with views over Bronte Beach and a swimming pool.
<img src="/images/2015/05/04/bronte%20may%204.jpg" alt=""> Listing agent Simon Exleton of McGrath Edgecliff says bidding opened at $4.8 million, with three registered bidders.
"When you get in the five million range, it starts to get a bit clunky", Exleton says of the premium auction market. The vendors are still negotiating with buyers, hoping for a price in the mid-$5 million range.
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The 11% that didn't sell in Sydney auctions

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Comparison website Mozo has named Youi the best home insurer in Australia, based on about 10,000 insurance customers' reviews.
Youi was rated 8.3 out of 10, followed by Westpac, GIO, Suncorp and Coles.
The Royal Automobile Association of South Australia took out the award for the best specialist home insurer category.
According to Mozo director Kirsty Lamont, customers' satisfaction levels were closely related to price. However, service also played a substantial role.
"The biggest gripe among customers is the claims process, which is the real moment of truth for insurers, most negative reviews were related to refusal to pay claims, delays in claim payments and the attitude of staff," said Lamont.
"68% of us are fans of our insurer and the remaining 32% gave their insurer a fair or fail rating," Lamont said.
Mozo refers to those who rated their insurer eight or higher "a fan", while "fair" refers to those who gave a score between five and seven. A "fail" is a score of four or lower.
Women generally scored insurers higher than men did. Victorians and Queenslanders were the least satisfied with their insurers than customers in other states.
Mozo users rated their insurers 7.8 out of 10 overall.
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Mozo names Youi Australia's best home insurer

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ING Direct has cut rates on its fixed mortgage products to a new low for the company.
One to three-year fixed rate mortgages will now be offered at a 4.24% rate, while four to five-year fixed rate mortgages have been cut to a 4.49% rate.
In March, the company lowered its variable rates, with a discount available for low loan-to-value ratio customers (under 80%).
This month, ING Direct will also be making a cash payment to some customers to reward Orange Advantage customers.
Its new fixed rates, effective 1 May:
<img src="/images/2015/04/30/Picture%2013.png" alt="">
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ING Direct cuts fixed mortgage rates

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Housing prices increased in all capital cities but Canberra last month, according to CoreLogic RP Data.
In the three months to April, Sydney had the largest price increase. Home prices in the New South Wales capital increased by 5.4% over the quarter. CoreLogic RP Data head of research Tim Lawless says the city has seen a "second wind", with 15.5% annual growth for houses.
"Annually, the rate of capital gain has slowed since April last year, however, since the February rate cut the Sydney and, to a lesser extent, Melbourne housing markets have caught a second wind which is reflected in the higher rate of capital gain as well as the very strong auction results and rapid rate of sale for properties sold via private treaty.
Capital city home prices have increased by 25.3% between the end of May 2012 and April 2015. In Sydney, the median house price is now $850,000, according to CoreLogic RP Data - somewhat lower than the <a href="/expert-insights/buying/sydneys-median-house-price-passes-900-000-domain-group">$914,056 estimated by the Domain Group</a>. Sydney continues to outpace the other capital cities, says Lawless.
"While the combined capitals trend of dwelling value growth has been substantial, the rate of growth across the Sydney housing market stands head and shoulders above the other capital cities over the cycle to date," he said.
"Sydney dwelling values are now 40.2% higher relative to the May 2012 trough.
"If you factor in the previous 2009/10 phase of growth, Sydney values are now up 65.4% post GFC."
Only Melbourne approaches this level of growth, with dwelling values up 52.3% since the global financial crisis (GFC).
According to Lawless, some of the capital cities are "winding down".
"The rate of growth in Perth and Darwin has slowed substantially in line with the wind down of major infrastructure projects associated with the resources sector and the housing market in Canberra has also softened post federal election," he said.
Houses continue to outperform units, with detached house prices increasing 8.3% over the year, compared to 5.6% price growth for units. In Sydney and Melbourne this is particularly evident. Sydney house prices have increased by 15.5% over the past year, but units have increased by 9.7%. In Melbourne, house values have risen by 7.6%, but units have only increased in price by 1.9%.
Across the capitals, dwelling prices increased by 0.8% for the month. Hobart recorded the greatest monthly climb, with prices increasing by 1.6%.
CoreLogic RP Data figures show that in almost every capital city, rents are growing at a slower pace than housing prices, decreasing yields. In Melbourne, the average gross yield for a house is 3.2%, while in Sydney it is 3.4%.
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Sydney's housing market has a "second wind" with 15.5% annual house price growth: CoreLogic RP Data

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Sydney's median house price now sits at $914,056 after 3.6% quarterly price growth according to Domain Group research.
Domain Group senior economist Andrew Wilson predicts Sydney's price strength will continue.
"Sydney will continue to lead the pack in housing price growth - clearly ahead of Melbourne, Adelaide, Canberra, Brisbane and Hobart, which are set to continue to record modest to moderate price growth on the back of improving economies," says Wilson.
<img src="/images/2015/04/30/domain-april-30-one.jpg" alt="">
Source: Domain Group
House prices in Sydney increased by 16% in the year to March 2015, by far the strongest annual growth. In the same period, Melbourne prices increased by 6.6% to a median of $638,445.
Brisbane, Adelaide and Canberra houses recorded more modest increases over the quarter, while Perth and Darwin house values declined. Hobart's median house price remained constant in the three month period.
"Flattening economic activity and falling confidence in Perth, and to a lesser degree Darwin, will continue to put downward pressure on house price growth as those capital cities transition rapidly from their previous resource and population boom environments," Wilson says.
Perth's median house price declined by 2.1% over the three month period, the largest drop of any capital city market.
<img src="/images/2015/04/30/domain-april-30-two.jpg" alt="">
Source: Domain Group
Sydney, Adelaide and Darwin were the only three cities which recorded an increase in both house and unit prices for the quarter. As of March 2015, the median price for a Sydney unit is $609,800. After 14.9% quarterly price growth, Darwin's median unit price sits at $473,813. Adelaide's 2.2% unit price growth for the quarter puts its median at $292,514.
Melbourne, Canberra and Brisbane all recorded drops in the median unit price over the quarter, while Perth's unit price stayed constant.
"Melbourne, Canberra and Brisbane saw falls in the median price of units as the impact of recent construction and new supply filters through to the market," Wilson notes. Canberra's decline was the steepest in the unit market, with a 3.6% quarterly decrease in the median price.
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Sydney's median house price passes $900,000: Domain Group

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A new apartment development is set for Noosaville's Gympie Terrace.
Khalani, designed by Kidd + Co principal Stephen Kidd,<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-qld-noosaville-119606359" target="_blank"> will comprise six apartments</a>, built by Mark Bain Constructions.
The one, two and three bedroom apartments are being marketed toward retirees, in what Kidd says is a "very sought after location".
According to Kidd, Khalani at 279 Gympie Terrace will be the first new development at that end of Gympie Terrace since Platinum, which he designed about six years ago. David Connolly, the marketing agent and principal of Century 21 Conolly Hay Group Co, agrees that properties in that position are rare.
"This position showcases one of the most stunning Noosa River vistas available, with a view stretching all the way to the river mouth," he says. All living areas face north-east.
The three level building will have two apartments on each level, with pool access for the ground floor apartments. Kidd + Co describe the design as "conservative and classic".
"We haven't embarked on any new techniques, instead we've concentrated on refining quality to make this development the best it can be," says Kidd.
Plans for Khalani are still subject to final council approval.
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Stephen Kidd-designed Khalani development planned for Noosaville

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Melbourne couple Deanne and Darren Jolly have won The Block Triple Threat. In a battle of the buyer's agents, Nicole Jacobs beat out fellow Block judge Frank Valentic to secure the winning townhouse for $2.29 million.
The returning couple's renovation at <a href="/expert-insights/building/darren-and-dees-renovation-tipped-to-top-the-block-and-sell-for-more-than-1-6-million">4/27 Darling Street (pictured above)</a> sold for almost $835,000 over reserve at last night's South Yarra auction, which was televised tonight.
With a reserve price of $1,455,000 (once taking into account various prizes), the couple take home $935,000, thanks to the $100,000 prize they receive as the team with the highest price over reserve.
In second place were Josh and Charlotte. Their townhouse, <a href="/expert-insights/building/the-block-triple-threat-units-listed-and-auction-date-revealed">1/27 Darling Street</a> sold for $2.2 million, $810,000 above the $1.39 million reserve.
Tonight's results were likely a relief for The Block producers as well as Deanne and Darren, after The Block Glasshouse's <a href="/expert-insights/building/smashing-win-for-simon-and-shannon-in-the-block-glasshouse-auctions-results">disappointing results</a>. Last year, Dee and Darren took home just $10,000 after months of work, as did Carlene and Michael.
Queenslanders and audience favourites Jess and Ayden, often considered the underdogs this season, sold their renovation at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-townhouse-vic-south+yarra-119448343" target="_blank">3/27 Darling Street</a> in South Yarra for $2 million, $665,000 above their reserve price of $1,335,000.
Josh and Charlotte's apartment was auctioned by returning auctioneer <a href="/expert-insights/building/david-wood-of-hockingstuart-to-auction-charlotte-and-joshs-the-block-triple-threat-apartment">David Wood of Hockingstuart Albert Park</a>. It seemed that auctioneers with Block success experience were a good bet for contestants – Deanne and Darren's win marks the fourth Block win for auctioneer Damien Cooley. Cooley has now appeared on seven Block series.
Tim and Anastasia, renowned for their storm offs during the season, took home $755,000 after selling Unit 2 of 27 Darling Street for $2,175,000, with a reserve price of $1.42 million.
The final results and reserves: 
<ol>
<li>Deanne and Darren 4/27 Darling Street Price: $2.29 million Reserve: $1,455,000 Winnings: $835,000 plus $100,000 prize 
</li>
<li>Charlotte and Josh 1/27 Darling Street Price: $2.2 million Reserve: $1.39 million Winnings: $810,000 
</li>
<li>Tim and Anastasia 2/27 Darling Street Price: $2,175,000 Reserve: $1.42 million Winnings: $755,000 
</li>
<li>Jess and Ayden 3/27 Darling Street Price: $2 million Reserve: $1,335,000 Winnings: $665,000</li>
</ol>
The Block claims this season it has given away the biggest prize ever awarded in television history, surpassing the $2.4 million amassed by contestants in The Block Fans v Faves.
After the reserves were announced, the auction order was determined. After some predictable quarreling, which saw Deanne and Darren insist they wouldn't go first. Host Scott Cam had to resort to pulling names out of a hat to determine the order.
Tim and Anastasia chose the first position, Jess and Ayden went second. Deanne and Darren went third, with Josh and Charlotte the final team to auction their apartment.
Proceedings began with Tim and Anastasia's unit, marketed by Doug Doyle and Russell Cambridge of Biggin &amp; Scott Richmond. Buyer's agent Jacobs began proceedings strong with a $1.5 million bid, battling it out with Valentic. A new bidder entered at $1.87 million, with Jacobs and Valentic continuing to bid, often at $10,000 or $20,000 increments. The third bidder wasn't seen again, as the price surpassed $2 million. Jacobs secured the apartment for $2,175,000. The result gave Tim and Anastasia a $755,000 profit, about $75,000 for each week of work they put in on The Block. 
Their earnings were well over the $636,000 profit taken home by Steve and Chantelle on <a href="/news/substance-over-style-as-chantelle-and-steve-win-the-block-2014-fans-v-faves">The Block: Fans v Faves</a>.
Jess and Ayden's auction was second. Their townhouse, number 3, was marketed by Adam Joske and Joel Ser of Gary Peer &amp; Associates, Caufield North. Stuart Benson auctioned the apartment. Jacobs again started bdiding off strong at $1.7 million, with Valentic quickly coming back with $1.8 million. A third bidder entered at $1.95 million. Valentic secured the apartment for a client at $2 million.
Third up was Darren and Deanne's renovation, auctioned by Cooley and marketed by Andrew McCann and Carla Fetter of Jellis Craig. Bidding began at $1.9 million, quickly reaching $2.1 million. Valentic and Jacobs, along with a third bidder. Jacob held the property at $2.22 million, with Frank consulting a client over the phone pushing the price up by $5,000 increments. Jacob responded with a $2.25 million bid. Valentic resorted to a $1,000 bid.
Jacobs finally knocked Valentic out with a $2.29 million bid, with Deanne and Darren securing the $835,000 profit, making them the winners of the biggest prize ever awarded in The Block.
Finally, Josh and Charlotte's townhouse went under the hammer. Unit 1 was sold through Wood with Mark Konishi and Georgia Whitford of hockingstuart South Yarra. Bidding yet again started strong at $1.8 million. Jacobs, Valentic and two other bidders were engaged, with Valentic and a bidder at the back of the room, who appeared to be Chris Barrett of Marshall White, going back and forth. Barrett secured the townhouse for $2.2 million, giving Josh and Charlotte a $810,000 profit.
The results were largely predicted, with buyer's agents Greville Pabst and Frank Valentic, who served with Nicole Jacobs on the buyer's agents jury this season, both tipping that Deanne and Darren's apartment would attract the highest price.
Before the auctions, Frank Valentic said that "Darren and Dea's fans will see a hotly contested auction for one of the biggest apartments and the only backyard on The Block." Similarly, price prediction website realAs tipped that the Jolly's renovation would <a href="/expert-insights/building/darren-and-dees-renovation-tipped-to-top-the-block-and-sell-for-more-than-1-6-million">sell for the highest sum</a>, expecting a $1,654,000 price tag.
The results show was watched by just over 2 million in the five major capital cities.
Although another season of The Block is now over, it's probably not the last you'll see of The Block Triple Threat's faces. While Deanne denies she's set for the Real Housewives of Melbourne, Ayden and Jess will return to our screens on spin-off show Reno Rumble, while serial Block bidder and now judge Valentic may have a role on another production.
<img src="/images/2015/04/29/Picture%2065.png" alt="">
 {mijopolls 108}
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Deanne and Darren's $935,000 Block 2015 Triple Threat auction result redemption

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Sydney's City Tattersalls Club has chosen ICD Property and Sinclair Brook to as development partners for its proposed redevelopment.
According to City Tattersalls Club chief executive Tony Guilfoyle, the mixed-use redevelopment, which will include apartments, will help "reduce the Club's financial dependence on gaming".
Patrick Campion, the chairman of City Tattersalls Club, said the club had received strong interest from developers during its four-month expression of interest process.
"We believe that the ICD Property and Sinclair Brook proposal has the greatest benefit to our members and is in their best interests," Campion said.
"The Club briefed its members yesterday and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive."
ICD Property's projects include the 663-apartment Eq. Tower, which is currently being built in the Melbourne CBD. The developer's managing director, Michael Mai, said the project would deliver apartments to an "under-supplied market".
Sinclair Brook is the developer behind Australia 108, the Southbank apartment tower that is set to become the tallest building in Melbourne.
Elenberg Fraser has designed the development concept for the 194-204 Pitt Street premises. The project is due to be completed in 2020.
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City Tattersalls Club announces development partners

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

Joel Robinson

Bottega House secures landmark riverfront site in St Lucia 

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

SIERA kicks off construction at Northcliffe tower Exhale

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

Eastern Suburbs buyers snap up ESTE Little Bay apartments

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sunland-group">Sunland Group</a> has officially lodged plans for its first Gold Coast apartment project since the departure of the Abedian family from the company three years ago, unveiling a new high-rise proposal for a prominent Broadbeach corner site on Old Burleigh Road.

The application was submitted by an entity directed by Tom Jamieson, stepson of longtime Sunland leader Soheil Abedian, and Riaz Rezvanipour, brother-in-law of Sahba Abedian, Soheil’s son.

Sunland acquired the 1,283 sqm site on the corner of Old Burleigh Road and Armrick Avenue for $9.5 million late last year and is now seeking approval for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/99-101-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach-qld-4218">42-storey tower with 81 apartments</a>.

<img alt="First look: Sunland Group returns to Broadbeach with new Old Burleigh Road tower plans" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fea2946d-90ee-4cfc-babe-2a8ad5db2cb6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/pers.png?VersionId=BV0fihJw31nDIQ8ozY_h3GbS8mxDyhnm" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/contreras-earl-architecture">Contreras Earl Architecture</a>, the proposed tower at 99-101 Old Burleigh Road would deliver a predominantly larger-format apartment mix aimed at the owner-occupier market. Plans include 17 two-bedroom apartments, 55 three-bedroom apartments, and nine four-bedroom residences across 35 residential levels.

The development also incorporates three basement levels, four podium parking levels, two levels of communal recreation facilities, and rooftop plant and equipment. A total of 189 car spaces are proposed, significantly exceeding the 90 spaces required under the planning scheme.

The architecture adopts a sculpted, curvilinear form, with deep wraparound balconies and integrated landscaping intended to soften the tower’s vertical expression. The planning report states the building’s “slender footprint/form provides a complimentary yet varied built form within the local streetscape” and contributes to “a varied, yet ordered skyline.”

Contreras Earl noted in its Architectural Statement that from the early stages, the project addressed a fundamental challenge: how to accommodate the required residential yield while avoiding the conventional model of a tower sitting on a rigid, fully resolved parking podium.

“The most direct response would have been to consolidate parking into a singular, flat podium and extrude a repetitive tower above,” the statement said. “While efficient, this approach would result in a consolidated built form with limited engagement with the surrounding landscape and public realm.”

Instead, the conventional podium model was “deliberately rejected”. The architects described the base of the building as “a landscaped architectural condition where structure, planting and circulation are integrated”.

“Rather than presenting a continuous built mass, the base of the building is articulated through a series of concrete planter elements that organise the podium into a fragmented system,” the statement said. “This approach reduces the perceived bulk of the lower levels while establishing a more permeable interface with the streetscape and adjacent open space.”

<img alt="Sunland" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="923fad8d-c960-4527-8fbe-975cf1ddf88d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-25%20at%2010.32.03%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=pngwb0hYOIUpq9vDw6F2EsOiVuHF3DiX" />

&nbsp;

The site sits within the High Density Residential Zone and inside the City of Gold Coast’s unrestricted “HX” building height area, where the planning framework anticipates intensified residential development tied to the expanding light rail corridor. The planning report notes the area is undergoing “transition toward more intense development forms” given its proximity to Broadbeach, Surfers Paradise, and high-frequency public transport infrastructure.

Positioned directly opposite Broadbeach Park and within walking distance of Florida Gardens light rail station, the development would sit among a rapidly evolving stretch of Old Burleigh Road that has become one of the Gold Coast’s most active apartment development corridors.

The application joins a growing pipeline of luxury residential projects reshaping Broadbeach, including nearby developments by 5Point Projects, Polycell, and Graya.

The planning report argues the project contributes toward the Gold Coast’s long-term housing targets under the South East Queensland Regional Plan, which forecasts the need for more than 100,000 additional high-rise dwellings across the city by 2046.

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The Abedian family departed Sunland Group in late 2023, ending a four-decade association with the company, and subsequently established the private development firm Abedian &amp; Co. The group is currently delivering <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/greenmount-residences-cnr-hill-street-and-marine-parade-coolangatta-qld-4225">Greenmount Residences</a> at Rainbow Bay and recently launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/18-mary-avenue-14-18-mary-avenue-broadbeach-qld-4218">18 Mary Avenue</a> in Broadbeach.
</section>

First look: Sunland Group returns to Broadbeach new apartment market with new Old Burleigh Road tower plans

The Minns Labor Government has established the new Bays West Delivery Authority to lead the development&nbsp;of the Bays West Precinct and Blackwattle Bay Precinct.&nbsp;

The Authority is charged with creating Sydney’s newest precinct, a thriving, connected, sustainable hub with White Bay Power Station as its cultural heart. Its vision is to build on the area’s natural, cultural and industrial history to shape a vibrant new neighbourhood.

The precinct will deliver up to 8,500 well-located homes, including a minimum of 10 per cent affordable and essential worker homes. Combine new housing with public open space, opening public access to the waterfront for the first time in more than 100 years, while retaining important deep-water facilities to support Sydney’s working harbour.

Located just minutes from the Sydney CBD and connected to a world-class metro, ferry, walking and cycling links, the Bays West precinct will rebalance housing growth towards well-serviced inner-city locations and help tackle the state’s housing crisis.

The Bays West Delivery Authority,&nbsp;an agency of the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure, will report to the NSW Minister for Lands and Property who already has oversight of major precinct renewal projects including at Blackwattle Bay and Barangaroo.

As part of the broader Bays West transformation, the Minns Government recently announced that a proposal from Lendlease to redevelop part of the Bays West Precinct has progressed to Stage 2 of the NSW Government’s unsolicited proposals process.

<img alt="Sydney" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2ed71eb9-d8e8-4fa7-b9d1-de4531dcf2f3" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-25%20at%209.42.31%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=IDryFIbped9SNDg72LEN_EecvhUsOPvp" />

The Minns Labor Government has also confirmed the Bays West precinct will have a new suburb name. This will be the first major suburb built in close proximity to Sydney’s CBD in decades and will encompass the area currently being referred to as Bays West, including Glebe Island and the White Bay Power Station. Served by a new Metro station just five minutes from the CBD, it will become one of the most populous suburbs in the Inner West and one of Sydney’s premier cultural destinations.

An early works program is taking shape, which&nbsp;includes the first stages of an international design competition.&nbsp;

The aim of the Bays West&nbsp;International&nbsp;Design Competition is to&nbsp;ensure design excellence is embedded in the project from the start. The competition will deliver an&nbsp;urban framework that defines the character, ambition and long-term identity of&nbsp;this&nbsp;former industrial precinct as it transitions to a vibrant, inclusive and sustainable residential&nbsp;neighbourhood.

The competition will be led by the Bays West Delivery Authority in partnership with Government Architect NSW.&nbsp;

It will launch with an invitation for a global Expressions of Interest, before moving to an invitation-only stage that will be assessed by a panel that&nbsp;will provide advice to Cabinet who will select a winner.

Premier of NSW, Chris Minns said the establishment of the new Authority is the first step in transforming the Bays West precinct into a vibrant, livable suburb minutes from the Sydney CBD and two stops from Hunter St Station on the Metro West line.

“The Authority will deliver well-located homes close to the heart of the city and integrate the new precinct with Blackwattle Bay and the new Sydney Fish Market.

“This is a generational opportunity to build a new suburb on the city’s edge and open the harbour foreshore to the public for the first time in a century.”&nbsp;

Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said the new Bays West Delivery Authority established by the Minns Government will turbocharge the development of Sydney’s newest suburb.

“The Authority is working at a record pace to deliver an international design competition, planning pathways and a financial model so that this development benefits Sydney with well-designed homes in a central location, close to public transport, jobs, entertainment and essential services.

“If we want Sydney to stay liveable and affordable, we need to be bold about using underutilised government-owned land to deliver homes for the future while making sure essential working harbour functions can be accommodated.”

Jessie Richardson

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