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Location Location Location Australia has returned to the Lifestyle Channel for its third season.
The premiere episode of the house hunting show saw co-host Bryce Holdaway lending a hand to South Australian retirees Genevieve and Trevor, while Veronica Morgan busily searched for a house for parents Michael and Naomi in Sydney.
Woollhara renters Michael and Naomi were after a house in Sydney's eastern suburbs, but had a long list of specifications that they had trouble budging on. With a $2.4 million budget, Michael, a partner at a law firm, and Naomi, a sales manager at Facebook, were after a family home that would fit their three kids and grumpy french bulldog, Winston.
The busy couple were hoping for a four bedroom house, with all four bedrooms on a single level to suit their young children. First, they tried a <a href="/news">Bondi</a> home on a narrow plot, with an unassuming facade and contemporary interiors. The open plan home with a $2.25 million price guide piqued their interest, but space and layout was an issue, requiring two of their three children to share a bedroom. Veronica encouraged the couple to stretch their expectations with a North Bridge family house on a large sloping plot. There was plenty of space for the children, but again, the bedrooms were split over two levels. Naomi and Michael noted the home felt "like a grown up house", and weren't quite ready to pack up and head to suburbia quite yet. They also visited a home in <a href="/news">Willoughby</a>, closer to the city and on a big corner block. But the renovated and extended period single storey home, with five bedrooms on a single level, didn't appeal to Naomi, despite its listing price of $1.9 million making it the cheapest of all the homes they visited. In the end, Veronica concluded that the couple would take the eastern suburbs or nothing, and showed Naomi and Michael a Willoughby stunner which had incredible views to the city. Although practicality was a major issue in the house, the couple were smitten. Unfortunately, other buyers were even  more exuberant on auction day, and Michael and Naomi didn't even get a bid in. The house was listed with $2.4 million expectations, and sold for $2.82 million. In Adelaide, Bryce was busy searching for a home for retirees and former vineyard owners Genevieve and Trevor. They had a price limit of $700,000 and were after a three bedroom, modern home close to the CBD. First stop was stone cottage in <a href="/news">Tranmere</a>. Listed for $645,000 to $665,000, the home had street appeal but the interior layout wasn't a winner, nor was the size. Bryce, noting the couple's need to compromise between size and location, pushed the couple further out, to the northern suburb of <a href="/news">Paradise</a>. There, Genevieve and Trevor saw a four bedroom renovated 1970s bungalow, with an outdoor deck and pool. Again, the couple wasn't blown away - Trevor was particularly unmoved by the house, which had an odd laundry and kitchenette installed in the fourth bedroom. So Bryce hauled in Veronica for some backup, and the pair found a home in <a href="/news">Walkley Heights</a>, 20 minutes from Adelaide's CBD. Though the new suburb is further out than Genevieve and Trevor initially wanted, he thought they might like the house itself - and he was right. The single storey home (pictured in the gallery above) with limestone frontage had open plan living areas, with an additional separate living space for Trevor to use as a "man cave". There was also a pool and a substantially sized garage. Sitting on a 731 square metre block, the house had plenty of space for visitors. According to the listing information, the home was built in 2006. Listed at $699,000, it was right at the couple's upper price limit, but they were clearly taken with the house from the get go. After gauging interest in the property, Bryce put in an offer with the real estate agent and the couple snapped up the home for $699,000. Genevieve and Trevor were thrilled with the result, and a follow up with the couple showed them very happy with their new purchase.
{module Did Genevieve and Trevor pay the right price for their home?}
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jrichardson-uRX5hFdKfN

Third season of Location Location Location Australia premieres

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Property investors are increasingly using self-managed super funds (SMSF) as low cost investment vehicles.  
But recent moves by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) serve as a helpful reminder to SMSF investors that nothing comes for free.  
ASIC issued three infringement notices to Esuperfund Pty Ltd for false or misleading online advertising. The online SMSF establishment and administration service provider has paid $30,600 in penalties after it ran advertisements and articles that misrepresented the costs and benefits of using its services or SMSFs.  The three statements ran between 31 January 2014 and 8 May 2014.
ASIC was concerned that one advertisement implied that Esuperfund clients would not pay any fees or costs when establishing a SMSF in 2014, while another article, entitled '9 Benefits of Setting Up A Self Managed Super Fund' misrepresented the costs associated with SMSFs in comparison to retail and industry superannuation funds.  
According to ASIC, a third advertisement falsely claimed that ASIC reviewed Esuperfund's operations yearly to make sure it was complying with its legal obligations.  
Esuperfund has now removed the statements from its website.  
Another SMSF service provider, Your Super Accountant, paid $2,040 after receiving an infringement notice for making potentially misleading statements about the costs of setting up a SMSF when using their services.  
Despite publishing claims on their website homepage that it was free to set up a SMSF with Your Super Accountant, investors were required to pay $200 upfront (20% of the annual administration fee) in order to be eligible for the "free" set up. The website homepage did not disclose that condition, or any others, when advertising the "free" service.  
ASIC noted that using a corporate trustee to set up a fund is never free.   According to ASIC deputy chairman Peter Kell, consumers should be on the lookout for services that advertise themselves as "free".
  "Some terms and phrases – such as "free" – have such a strong connotation for consumers that particular care should be taken so that investors are not misled," said Kell.  
"Setting up an SMSF is an extremely important financial decision and consumers should clearly understand the set up costs involved. ASIC has a particular focus on misleading claims that a financial product or service is 'free', as this may lead consumers to make inappropriate financial decisions," he said.  
Your Super Account has now amended the content on its website.
 
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Nothing is free: Two SMSF services fined by ASIC for misleading claims

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South Australians who are hoping to buy or sell property have been warned against dealing with unlicensed agent Shane Snellgrove.
According to South Australian Commissioner for Consumer Affairs Dini Soulio, Snellgrove's registration was cancelled in September last year and he is no longer licensed as a land agent.
“Mr Snellgrove is ineligible to be licensed because he was recently declared bankrupt  by order of the Federal Circuit Court of Australia," said Soulio.
He urges consumers who have outstanding dealings with Snellgrove as a land agent to contact Consumer and Business Services (CBS).
“CBS has identified that despite warnings, Mr Snellgrove has continued to operate as a land agent unlicensed and has advertised properties on his website shanesnellgrove.com.au.
“CBS is investigating the conduct of Mr Snellgrove, and speaking to witnesses.  The maximum penalty for acting as a real estate agent while unlicensed is $20,000.
“I would warn consumers not to engage Mr Snellgrove as there is a risk that if they suffer detriment, they may not be afforded the protections provided by the Land Agents Act.
 
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Unlicensed agent alert: warning for South Australians

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Property program Location Location Location Australia will be back on the Lifestyle Channel tonight with its third season.
The reality television show follows hosts Bryce Holdaway and Veronica Morgan as they help families searching for a new home.
Every episode, the intrepid hosts split up to help two different prospective buyers, who each have different requirements for their dream purchase.  Bryce and Veronica travel the country, searching for properties and negotiating purchases.
Location Location Location Australia doesn't focus on one particular type of buyer, but on a range of different house hunters, from first home buyers to downsizers and those moving on from difficult family circumstances. 
Tonight's episode will show Bryce searching for a house for retired Barossa vineyard owners who want to move to Adelaide and find an more modern home. Genevieve and Trevor are moving from a vineyard that's been in the family for more than 100 years, and are being forced to sell due to drought and the financial downturn.
Meanwhile, Vanessa is helping busy Sydney parents Michael and Naomi, who are renting a four storey Woollahra terrace with their young children (and one grumpy french bulldog called Winston). They're hoping to stay in Sydney's eastern suburbs.
The show's third season premieres at 8:30pm on the Lifestyle Channel. 
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Location Location Location Australia returning tonight

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A luxury apartment made it to the top of RP Data's 10 most expensive sales of the week.
The Pyrmont offering (pictured above) with 360 degree views fetched $7 million. However, there were a few other high profile sales that didn't make it onto RP Data's radar this week. There was the Professor Leslie Wilkinson designed Point Piper home of Charles Scarf and his wife Maria, which <a href="/news/30-million-professor-leslie-wilkinson-point-piper-trophy-home-sold-under-scarf-of-secrecy">sold for an unconfirmed price</a> after it was listed with $30 million plus hopes.
The sale of David Airey's <a href="/expert-insights/buying/south-yarra-then-templestowe-top-weekend-melbourne-auctions">South Yarra house for $3.8 million</a> also failed to get a mention, as did a three bedroom Mosman home <a href="/expert-insights/buying/mosman-price-shocker-tops-sydneys-weekend-auctions">which secured $3.23 million</a>. Mooloolaba's pink house was also one of the most expensive sales this week, <a href="/expert-insights/buying/fred-eagers-pink-house-mooloolaba-sells-for-3-8-million">with a $3.8 million price tag</a>.
Here are 10 of the other most expensive sales for the week ending 10 August, from RP Data.
<ol>
<li>
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.feldiproperty.com/6645103" target="_blank">59/56 Pirrama Road, Pyrmont, NSW </a> <img src="/images/2014/08/12/e1.jpg" alt=""> A Pyrmont penthouse topped this week's sales, attracting $7 million dollars when it sold through Feldi Property Agents. The three bedroom, four bathroom apartment has full panoramic views over the harbour, the CBD and Barangaroo. The unit, which is directly accessible via lift, comes with three car spaces and a 17 metre marina berth. 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-templestowe-117412491" target="_blank">4 Winifred Court, Templestowe, Vic</a> <img src="/images/2014/08/12/templestowe_0000_1.jpg.jpg" alt=""> The Templestowe home of architect Phillip Mannerheim was sold for $3.35 million through Ray White Manningham. The house was originally listed with a $2.4 million price guide. Mannerheim substantially renovated the property, which now has four bedrooms, five bathrooms and five car spaces. He purchased the home in 2003 for $870,000. 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-mount+eliza-116687087" target="_blank">5 Bay Avenue, Mount Eliza, Vic </a> <img src="/images/2014/08/12/e3.jpg" alt=""> This five bedroom, four bathroom house fetched $3.16 million when sold through Aqua Real Estate Mount Eliza. Set on a 2,619 square metre parcel, the home has panoramic views of Port Phillip Bay and Melbourne's skyline. The house's multiple living spaces include a formal dining room which opens onto an covered balcony on the upper level, and a ground-floor rumpus room with a full wet bar, open fireplace and direct access to the pool. Despite its lofty price, the vendors actually made a loss on the Mount Eliza home's sale - they purchased it for $3.4 million in 2011. 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.mcgrath.com.au/rent/house-mcmahons-point-nsw-2060/41330" target="_blank">7 McManus Street, McMahons Point, NSW </a> <img src="/images/2014/08/12/e4.jpg" alt=""> McGrath Estate Agents handled the $3.1 million sale of this four bedroom, two bathroom Sydney home. The two storey house with views over Berrys Bay sits on a dual access block. Its master bedroom comes with a en suite with spa and direct courtyard access. The home is currently leased for $1,950 per week, yielding 3.27%. 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.curranproperty.com.au/selling/NSW/Upper-North-Shore/East-Killara/House/1P0115" target="_blank">11 Fairlight Avenue, East Killara, NSW </a> <img src="/images/2014/08/12/e5.jpg" alt=""> A six bedroom, three bathroom house attracted $2.81 million through Curran Property Chatswood this weekend. The listing information states the three level home is "reminiscent of a classically inspired European estate", set over a 1,359 square metre plot. The home was purchased by the vendors 20 years ago for just $515,000 and was renovated by interior designers Hare and Klein in 2001. 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.feldiproperty.com/10579533" target="_blank">3/56 Pirrama Road, Pyrmont, NSW </a> <img src="/images/2014/08/12/e6.jpg" alt=""> Another unit in the 56 Pirrama Road complex made it on RP Data's top 10 list this week. The three bedroom, two bathroom apartment at number 3 was picked up for $2.7 million, selling through Feldi Property Agents. It features hardwood floors in the living and kitchen areas, with carpeted bedrooms. Residents have access to the building's lap pool and gym. 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-glen+waverley-117383623" target="_blank">21 Barbara Avenue, Glen Waverley, Vic </a> <img src="/images/2014/08/12/e7.jpg" alt=""> This five bedroom, five bathroom house sold for $2.5 million through Ray White Glen Waverley. The two storey home on a 809 square metre block has multiple indoor living spaces, with a tiled outdoor entertaining area. The listing information notes that the house is "metres from Glen Waverley Secondary College". The vendors paid $900,000 for the land and previous house on the block in 2012. 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-mosman-117476495" target="_blank">16 Windward Avenue, Mosman, NSW </a> <img src="/images/2014/08/12/e8.jpg" alt=""> A Mosman home also fetched $2.5 million this week, selling through Harcourts Dunne Mosman. The three bedroom, two bathroom dual frontage offering is situated on the high side of Windward Avenue, adjoining to a bush reserve. Set on a 695.6 square metre block, the house features a balcony that runs the length of the house, a sauna, large study, a workshop and a double-lock garage. 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-beecroft-117463887" target="_blank">8 Bangalow Avenue, Beecroft, NSW </a> <img src="/images/2014/08/12/e9.jpg" alt=""> Securing $2.4 million, this house sold through McGrath Estate Agents Epping. The former farmhouse has five bedrooms and three bathrooms, with outdoor entertaining areas and an in ground pool. The 1,492 square metre parcel has development approval for a two lot subdivision. The vendors paid $1,375,000 for the home in 2008. 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-ivanhoe-117452027" target="_blank">45 Waterdale Road, Ivanhoe, Vic </a> <img src="/images/2014/08/12/e10.jpg" alt=""> This five bedroom, four bathroom contemporary home sold for $2,380,000 through Barry Plant Ivanhoe. The modern house on a 750 square metre plot is decked out with showy details, including double three metre waterfall stone island benchtops, two self-cleaning ovens, motorised drawers in the bedrooms and a 14 jet spa in the master en suite. The home also features a salt chlorinated pool and bluestone paved balconies.</li>
</ol>
Other high ranking sales for the week include 112 Jersey Road, Paddington (NSW), a <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-paddington-117430135" target="_blank">three bedroom home that sold for $2.37 million</a>, and 3 Park Road, St Leonards (NSW), <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-st+leonards-117568991" target="_blank">a 1912 four bedder</a> that fetched $2.35 million.
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Luxury units stand out on most expensive sales of the week: RP Data

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Last night, Australia was treated to the first round of bathroom reveals on The Block Glasshouse.
In one of the hardest tasks of the series (as host Scott Cam likes to remind us), each team was given one week to create the main bathroom of their office conversion apartment.
The week saw yet more delays, tradies in tears, and a particularly unsavory furniture upcycling challenge featuring a taxidermied deer head (the furniture world's Martin Margielas, our blockheads are not).
But it seems the hard work was worth it in the end, with the judges marveling at the bathrooms this season's  contestants managed to deliver.
Despite being cursed with a severed, taxidermied, hollowed out and illuminated deer head courtesy of Shannon and Simon, Chris and Jenna managed to wash the negativity away with their bathroom offering (pictured above, courtesy of Channel 9).
The Campbelltown couple, characterised as the "newbies" of The Block, earned a perfect score of 30 from judges Neale Whitaker (soon to join Vogue Living as editor-in-chief), Selling Houses Australia's Shaynna Blaze and interior designer Darren Palmer.
Some major tiling miscalculations saw the couple bring in a two metre wide mirror to cover up their error - a blessing in disguise, creating the illusion of an expansive space.
Continuing the theme set with the exposed beams in their guest bedroom, the team ran a metal pole (with a pipe tucked inside) across the entire length of their bathroom, which suspended their shower head (pictured below).
<img src="/images/2014/08/11/block2.jpg" alt="">
Picture courtesy of Channel 9. The second highest score of the night went to Darren and Deanne, whose bathroom was particularly popular with Darren (judge, not Jolly), pictured below.
<img src="/images/2014/08/11/blockd.jpg" alt="">
Picture courtesy of Channel 9.
Shaynna Blaze noted that their bathroom had a "provincial feel" translated to an urban setting, while Neale Whittaker said the bathroom held its own against some of the best bathrooms he's seen in his career as a magazine editor. The couple were awarded 28 points out of 30.
Their bathroom featured a medley of materials - with a plain plastered wall, a marble vanity, patterned floor tiles, a paneled wall and a wall covered with large white tiles. Maxine and Karstan redeemed themselves after failing to complete a room last week, scoring 26 points for their glossy grey bathroom, pictured below.
<img src="/images/2014/08/11/blockmax.jpg" alt="">
Picture courtesy of Channel 9.
Theirs was a particularly big space and Shaynna appreciated their extensive storage, which allowed access to the bedroom linen closet through the wall. However, the couple lost points for the lack of underfloor heating, which was seen in many of the other bathrooms.
Queensland couple Michael and Carlene coped with their pokey bathroom by building a raised platform with an in-built bathtub and open shower three steps above the floor level, pictured below. The judges all thought the couple's herringbone tile feature wall was worth the trouble (though their tiler who was pulling all-nighters alone for the majority of the week may not agree).
<img src="/images/2014/08/11/block%20michael.jpg" alt="">
Picture courtesy of Channel 9.
The raised shower was not so popular, with Shaynna concerned that wet, soapy steps would be unsafe for buyers and their children. Michael maintains that the tiles were fairly porous, and wouldn't be slippery. The couple was awarded 24 points for their effort.
Last week's winners took a tumble in the judges eyes - Simon and Shannon received the lowest score of the week, with 23 points. While their timber vanities were appreciated, there were a number of awkward points in the bathroom, including a hidden-but-not-so-hidden boxed-out cistern which reminded Shaynna of a public toilet (pictured below).
<img src="/images/2014/08/11/blockss2.jpg" alt="">
Picture courtesy of Channel 9.
The judges also noticed the absence of a bath in the main bathroom, noting that it felt more like an en suite (which is was, thanks to the door adjoining the bathroom to the guest bedroom, an idea the brothers pinched from Chris and Jenna).
This week, the teams will tackle two rooms - the second bedroom and study.
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Block Glasshouse newbies reborn with perfect score

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The median price of a house in Brisbane was $475,000 for the quarter to July, according to RP Data.
Brisbane house values were down 0.2% for the month, but increased 6.9% on a yearly basis. The Queensland capital had the third-strongest growth of any capital city in the country for the 12 months to July, behind Melbourne and Sydney.
Many people use median figures to set their price expectations for an area - but what does a $475,000 Brisbane house actually look like? Property Observer looks at the city's recent sales to see what the median price will get you.
<ol>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-mansfield-117265463" target="_blank">84 Pareena Crescent, Mansfield</a> <img src="/images/2014/08/11/1.jpg" alt=""> This three bedroom, two bathroom brick home sold for $477,000 in July. The house sits on a 546 square metre plot in the Mansfield High School zone. Two of the three bedrooms have built in robes, and the open plan living spaces feature pine cathedral ceilings. It was purchased by the vendors for $400,000. Price: $477,000 Bedrooms: Three Drive to CBD: 15 minutes 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-mitchelton-117290463" target="_blank">49 Glen Holm Street, Mitchelton</a> <img src="/images/2014/08/11/2.jpg" alt=""> Late last month, a three bedroom, one bathroom house secured $473,000 when sold in late July. The single storey home has built in wardrobes in all three bedrooms and the kitchen and dining area opens onto a covered entertainment area. The house is set on a 405 square metre block. Price: $473,000 Bedrooms: Three Drive to CBD: 15 minutes 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-deagon-116916459" target="_blank">60 Station Road, Deagon</a> <img src="/images/2014/08/11/3.jpg" alt=""> Another three bedroom, one bathroom house sold around Brisbane's median price last month, with this Deagon home attracting $482,500. The home has open plan living and dining areas, with an open fireplace and 10 foot ceilings. The home sits on a 450 square metre parcel, with a utility room and workshop tucked in the downstairs area of the house. Price: $482,500 Bedrooms: Three Drive to CBD: 25 minutes 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-keperra-117324855" target="_blank">45 Hermitage Street, Keperra</a> <img src="/images/2014/08/11/4.jpg" alt=""> This low set brick home has four bedrooms and one bathroom, selling for $475,000. The home's newly renovated kitchen, with the listing information stating that it was "barely used", separates two living areas. Set on a 628 square metre parcel, the home also includes a two car lockup garage. Price: $475,000 Bedrooms: Four Drive to CBD: 19 minutes 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-jamboree+heights-116682875" target="_blank">Jamboree Heights</a> <img src="/images/2014/08/11/5.jpg" alt=""> A three bedroom, one bathroom house 14 kilometres south-west of the Brisbane CBD sold for $469,500. The house, set on a 589 square metre block, backs onto council-maintained parkland. Outside, there is an entertainment deck and in-ground pool, while the backyard has direct gated access to the park. Price: $469,500 Bedrooms: Three Drive to CBD: 17 minutes</li>
</ol>
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What does a median-priced house in Brisbane look like?

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Is there such thing as a first home buyer hotspot?
If so, these 10 Victorian postcodes just might make the list. According to the State Revenue Office of Victoria, these areas had the most first home owner grant applications of any postcodes in Victoria for the quarter to June 2014.
<ol>
<li>Postcode: 3977 Suburbs: <a href="/news">Cranbourne</a>,<a href="/news"> Devon Meadows</a>, <a href="/news">Skye</a> Number of applications in June quarter: 200 
</li>
<li>Postcode: 3029 Suburbs: <a href="/news">Hoppers Crossing</a>, <a href="/news">Tarneit</a> Number of applications in June quarter: 177 
</li>
<li>Postcode: 3030 Suburbs: <a href="/news">Point Cook</a>, <a href="/news">Werribee</a>, <a href="/news">Derrimut</a> Number of applications in June quarter: 110 
</li>
<li>Postcode: 3064 Suburbs: <a href="/news">Craigieburn</a>, <a href="/news">Donnybrook</a>, <a href="/news">Roxburgh Park</a>, <a href="/news">Mickleham</a> Number of applications in June quarter: 110 
</li>
<li>Postcode: 3754 Suburbs: <a href="/news">Doreen</a>, <a href="/news">Mernda</a> Number of applications in June quarter: 84 
</li>
<li>Postcode: 3750 Suburbs: <a href="/news">Wollert</a> Number of applications in June quarter: 59 
</li>
<li>Postcode: 3810 Suburbs: <a href="/news">Pakenham</a>, <a href="/news">Rythdale</a> Number of applications in June quarter: 58 
</li>
<li>Postcode: 3978 Suburbs: <a href="/news">Cardinia</a>, <a href="/news">Clyde</a>, <a href="/news">Clyde North</a> Number of applications in June quarter: 58 
</li>
<li>Postcode: 3338 Suburbs: <a href="/news">Melton South</a>, <a href="/news">Brookfield</a>, <a href="/news">Eynesbury</a>, <a href="/news">Exford</a> Number of applications in June quarter: 51 
</li>
<li>Postcode: 3000 Suburbs: <a href="/news">Melbourne</a> Number of applications in June quarter: 50</li>
</ol>
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Where are Victorian first home owners applying for grants?

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When it comes to purchasing a home, everybody wants a bargain - especially first home buyers.
If your "dream suburb" is now a dot on the horizon and you can't tighten your belt any further, it might be time to get creative.
The term "below market value" has a pretty stretchy definition and depends entirely on what people think a property should be worth - whether that person is a valuer, a lender, the vendor, or you. If you're hoping to buy a property "below market value", you're probably actually just after a home than what's expected for a property of that quality in that area, or for a lower price than you might have gotten it earlier. 
Under certain circumstances neither of those situations is desirable. If you're getting a property cheaper than any other on the street because it's falling apart, or because a new set of apartments is about to go up next door, you might be in for a dud. Similarly, if prices have fallen in a suburb over the past year, it might be because demand is falling away and unlikely to recover in the future.
Investors, owner occupiers and buyer's agents all have their own tricks for buying a property below what you would expect. They might keep an eye out for discounted homes, mortgagee sales, or off-market opportunities.  But before you snap up the next house in receivership you see online, or convince yourself that the dilapidated shack for sale is a below market value bargain, beware: sometimes it can be hard <a href="/expert-insights/investing/how-to-find-property-bargains-and-not-lemons-in-the-current-market">telling a bargain from a lemon</a>. 
If you want to buy a property "below market value", make sure it's still good value. Here are some strategies used to get a home for less than you'd expect.
<ol>
<li>
Mortgagee sales A mortgagee sale occurs when a property is possessed by a lender after the borrower can't repay their debts. If you head to a mortgagee auction, chances are you're buying a property that the bank wants off it's hands. However, that's no guarantee that you'll get a bargain basement price for the property. While the lender would probably prefer not to hold the property, they're also attempting to recover the money owned to them during the sale, and have an obligation to the defaulting borrower to sell their property at a fair value. However, a mortgagee sale can still sometimes provide good opportunity for bargain hunters. As Brad Caldwell-Eyles writes, most mortgagees will steer clear of fancy marketing strategies when selling a property, opting instead for straight shooting listing information - which might just mean it gets passed over by your competitors. 
</li>
<li>
Distressed sellers and deceased estates A "distressed seller" is exactly what it sounds like - a seller that has some sort of extra motivation to sell due to life circumstances. They could be ill, in financial trouble or leaving the country, and willing to sell their property at a loss, which is good news for you. For distressed sellers, time usually has a high dollar value, which you can use to your advantage. Sellers are under no obligation to advertised that they are "distressed", so if they are, it may mean they are particularly desperate to get rid of a property. Similarly, some executors are more interested in getting a property out of their hair than making money. Perhaps they can't afford ongoing advertising fees, or would just like to move on with their lives. Some websites, such as National Mortgagee and Deceased Estate Data, list only properties that are on the market from mortgagees, distressed sellers or housing authorities. Beware "discount" homes that have been languishing on the market. While you might find a property that's had its price cut by 70% since listing and has stood on the market for three years, it could be because the agent isn't doing their job and you've spotted an under-marketed gem. Or you could be getting sucked in by a property with an initial listing price triple what it deserves, that nobody else is touching because it's a dud investment. Proceed with caution. 
</li>
<li>
Spot the faults While searching for a home, you should always be on the lookout for any flaws or faults. Not only will it save you for buying a dud, but it could help you bring down the overall cost of the property. If you can get to the negotiation phase of a sale armed with a builder's inspection or a pest inspection document that shows the property is less than ideal, you could use those flaws to your advantage. This is also your opportunity to get creative. If there's a pile of rubbish on the property that the elderly seller has promised to get rid of before the settlement date, you could agree to take the property with the rubbish, with the cost of labour cut out of the sales price. Your elderly seller might have just saved themselves the trouble of organising labourers, and you've just exchanged some money for an afternoon of your time. Of course, it almost goes without saying - don't romanticise property problems. If you think you can use the leaky roof to negotiate down the sales price of your purchase, think first: do you really want a house with a leaky roof? Fixing problems down the line can often be more expensive than you anticipate at first, so only purchase if you're sure you can handle making improvements. 
</li>
<li>
Negotiate your terms There are two major aspects to a sale - the price and the agreed terms. If you make the terms good enough for your vendor, they may just be willing to move on the cost. For example, if you know your vendor is under time constraints and just wants to get rid of the property, getting in before the auction date and cutting the settlement time or waiving your cooling off period could be very valuable. Not only do such moves help your hurried vendor, but they also signal to the agent that you're confident and ready to make a purchase. To some, a first home buyer in the hand is worth more than 10 at auction next month.</li>
</ol>
Buying any first home is difficult, but buying a decent investment for a cheap price is even harder. Remember, a sale isn't all about you - it's about the seller, too. Keep them in mind and you could be securing a great home for less than you expect.
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First home buyer how to: Buying a property below market value

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Whether we're trying to figure out just how rich our rich and famous are, or trying to spot some cringeworthy decor to appeal to our sense of schadenfraude, celebrity homes always manage to catch our attention.
In the spirit of healthy voyeurism, this week's Friday trivia is devoted to the terrific, the tragic and the banal - celebrity homes.
Can you guess the famous past and present owners of these homes?
<ol>
<li>Which famous ballerina is packing up her Vaucluse home after moving back to London? <img src="/images/2014/08/08/vaucluse_0000_1.jpg.jpg" alt=""> 
</li>
<li>A particularly musical couple now owns this stand out Californian home. <img src="/images/2014/08/08/q2.jpg" alt=""> 
</li>
<li>This Byron Bay hinterland home didn't sell when it was put on on the auction block earlier this year. <img src="/images/2014/08/08/q3.jpg" alt=""> 
</li>
<li>A flaxen-haired celebrity couple haven't exactly aced the sale of their Palm Beach retreat. <img src="/images/2014/08/08/palm%20beach_0000_1.jpg.jpg" alt=""> 
</li>
<li>Another blonde listed this California estate last month - legally, of course. <img src="/images/2014/08/08/5.jpg" alt=""> 
</li>
<li>This Hope Island home was listed last month by Australia's Daytime TV Queen. <img src="/images/2014/08/08/6.jpg.jpg" alt=""> 
</li>
<li>A former Miss Universe paid $4 million for this view. <img src="/images/2014/08/08/7.jpg" alt=""> 
</li>
<li>Which Scorsese favourite and water pistol enthusiast owns this Palm Springs John Lautner home? <img src="/images/2014/08/08/8.PNG" alt=""> 
</li>
<li>An international couple with Australian roots flipped this Hollywood home earlier this year, making around US$15 million in the deal. There's no need for the money in the banana stand. <img src="/images/2014/08/08/9.jpg" alt=""> 
</li>
<li>A music star wasn't happy the initial $12 million asking price for his Miami penthouse, bumping up the price guidance earlier this year. <img src="/images/2014/08/08/10.jpg" alt="">
</li>
</ol>
 The answers are on the next page.
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
How well do you know the homes of the rich and famous? 
<ol>
<li>Which famous ballerina is packing up her Vaucluse home after moving back to London? <img src="/images/2014/08/08/vaucluse_0000_1.jpg.jpg" alt=""> This Vaucluse mansion has been listed by <a href="/news/staying-back-in-london-so-darcey-bussell-lists-vaucluse-home">classical ballerina Darcey Bussell</a>. 
</li>
<li>A particularly musical couple now owns this stand out Californian home. <img src="/images/2014/08/08/q2.jpg" alt=""> This Incredibad mansion was recently snapped up by Brooklyn 99 star <a href="/news/from-incredibad-to-chaplins-pad-andy-samberg-and-joanna-newsom-buy-legendary-hollywood-home">Andy Samberg and musician Joanna Newsom</a>. 
</li>
<li>This Byron Bay hinterland home didn't sell when it was put on on the auction block earlier this year. <img src="/images/2014/08/08/q3.jpg" alt=""> The Block co-host <a href="/news/shelley-craft-yet-to-sell-byron-bay-home">Shelley Craft attempted to sell</a> her Byron Bay Hinterland home in July. 
</li>
<li>A flaxen-haired celebrity couple haven't exactly aced the sale of their Palm Beach retreat. <img src="/images/2014/08/08/palm%20beach_0000_1.jpg.jpg" alt=""> This Palm Beach home belongs to <a href="/news/lleyton-hewitt-adjusts-palm-beach-holiday-home-price-net">Bec and Lleyton Hewitt</a>. 
</li>
<li>Another blonde listed this California estate last month - legally, of course. <img src="/images/2014/08/08/5.jpg" alt=""> <a href="/news/elle-woods-farewells-brentwood-reese-witherspoon-lists-home">Reese Witherspoon listed her home</a> with a $14 million price tag. 
</li>
<li>This Hope Island home was listed last month by Australia's Daytime TV Queen. <img src="/images/2014/08/08/6.jpg.jpg" alt=""> This home has been listed by <a href="/news/kerri-anne-kennerley-lists-hope-island-retreat">national treasure Kerri-Anne Kennerley</a>. 
</li>
<li>A former Miss Universe paid $4 million for this view. <img src="/images/2014/08/08/7.jpg" alt=""> Model <a href="/news/jennifer-hawkins-spends-4-million-on-newport-waterfront">Jennifer Hawkins picked up this property</a> and the adjoining plot after selling her North Curl Curl home. 
</li>
<li>Which Scorsese favourite and water pistol enthusiast owns this Palm Springs home? <img src="/images/2014/08/08/8.PNG" alt=""> <a href="/news/the-wolf-of-hermosa-place-leonardo-dicaprio-picks-up-palm-springs-holiday-home">This desert trophy home is owned by Leonardo DiCaprio</a>. Lautner's work is loved by Hollywood types, both fictional and real - his homes have been in <a href="/news/friday-trivia-can-you-guess-which-films-made-these-homes-famous">famous films</a>, and Chris Martin and Gwyneth Paltrow purchased a Lautner-designed Malibu home before they split. 
</li>
<li>An international couple with Australian roots flipped this Hollywood home earlier this year, making around US$15 million in the deal. There's no need for the money in the banana stand. <img src="/images/2014/08/08/9.jpg" alt=""> Portia de Rossi and Ellen DeGeneres bought this home early this year for US$39.89 million, before selling it for a reported $55 million sum to Napster founder Sean Parker. 
</li>
<li>A music star wasn't happy the initial $12 million asking price for his Miami penthouse, bumping up the price guidance earlier this year. <img src="/images/2014/08/08/10.jpg" alt=""> This penthouse pad was <a href="/news/pharrell-not-happy-with-12-million-as-he-bumps-up-listing-price-on-miami-penthouse">listed by musician Pharrell</a>.</li>
</ol>
 
 
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Friday trivia: Celebrity homes

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

Joel Robinson

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

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

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

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

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

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

Elevated amenity anchors daily life at Aeris, Melrose Park

Repeat buyers are one of the strongest measures of confidence in any apartment development.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/era-newcastle-west-124-126-bull-street-newcastle-west-nsw-2302">ERA</a> in Newcastle West, some purchasers are returning to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gwh">GWH</a> after living at the developer's One Apartments. Their decision to purchase again was driven by the quality of life they found after moving into their first GWH home.

Keith Wilton had spent years living in a house in East Maitland before deciding it was time for a change. Apartment living had always been on his radar, but he was selective about what he wanted.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FH_1EzB-1vs?si=XScVlP1ERsTDJoME" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

"I had some boxes I wanted to tick," he says.

Keith points to the open-plan design, generous outdoor areas and considered inclusions as key reasons One Apartments worked for him.

“One of those things was a nice indoor open plan area, but also I wanted a nice outdoor open area that I could entertain on in summer or Christmases or birthdays,” he says.

He also found value in the smaller details, from integrated appliances to shared resident spaces including the pool, cinema and rooftop areas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356818]

After comparing several developments, he chose One Apartments because of GWH's longstanding local reputation and his own experience working with the developer on a commercial project more than a decade earlier.

"I knew that they were local, that the quality of the build was going to be up there. I'd looked at other apartment complexes around and close by, and I just knew that here was a better decision location wise."

Today, Keith says the move has completely changed how he experiences Newcastle.

"I enjoy living in this location because it's more of a lifestyle change. That Newcastle city living where you can walk to restaurants and bars and even beaches and parks and even shopping across the road."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356828]

Beyond the location, he says it's the sense of community that has surprised him most.

"Everyone loves living here because they chose to live here, but everyone looks out for each other. It's a real great community feel here."

For Aimee and Lyle Goodman, the journey started almost by chance.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/tsioMLcnjas?si=zq-ys3JuWpfa5hFv" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

The couple happened to be having coffee in Newcastle when they noticed the site where One Apartments was about to begin construction.

"We were aware GWH was planning a development," Aimee says. "We made one phone call and things moved pretty quickly after that."

As busy business owners, they initially thought apartment living would simply reduce the maintenance that came with larger homes. Instead, it fundamentally changed how they spent time together.

"We actually catch up more as a family now," Aimee says.

"We've had homes with big yards and lots of space, but everyone ended up in different rooms. Here we'll have dinner together, the kids can play, and we spend far more quality time together."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356829]

Lyle says their confidence came from GWH's reputation within Newcastle's building industry.

"I know people who've worked across different apartment projects, and whenever GWH came up the feedback was always the same. They're rock solid. They're quality."

That confidence only grew throughout the buying process.

"One of the things that really impressed us with GWH was the whole process, was the communication," Lyle says. "It was consistent, it was regular, there was no problem if we had some weird questions, there was no problems in getting answers."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351104]

Aimee says one moment stood out.

"The project actually finished on time. We realised we needed to hurry up and sell our house because everything was happening exactly when they said it would."

The positive experience at One Apartments ultimately gave all three buyers the confidence to purchase again with GWH, this time at ERA.

Their confidence reflects what many buyers are seeking in today's apartment market. Location remains important, but so too does certainty around delivery, quality and long-term liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356822]

ERA builds on those foundations with 280 one, two and three-bedroom apartments across two landmark towers in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/newcastle-west-nsw-2302">Newcastle West</a>.&nbsp;

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fk-australia">Fender Katsalidis</a>, the project will include more than 2,000 square metres of resident amenities, including a resort-style pool, gym, sauna, private cinema and rooftop entertaining spaces overlooking the harbour and coastline.&nbsp;

The development is also within walking distance of the Newcastle Interchange, Honeysuckle, Darby Street, the harbour foreshore, restaurants, retail and the city’s beaches, continuing the walkable lifestyle that existing GWH buyers say has transformed how they live.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356826]

For Keith, the appeal remains straightforward.

"You feel at home even before you've moved into your home."

For Aimee, the change is measured in time.

“I just felt like I had more time,” she says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351102]

Construction at ERA is now underway, with more than half of the residences already sold and limited two and three-bedroom apartments remaining in the East Tower release. Priced from $980,000 for two-bedroom residences and $1.46 million for three-bedroom residences, buyers can secure an apartment with a 10 per cent deposit, with premium homes offering ocean views from Level 8 and harbour views from Level 10.

ERA is also backed by Resilience Insurance's 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy, providing protection against structural or waterproofing defects for 10 years after completion. The project is anticipated to be completed in early 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135096]

Jessie Richardson

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