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If you live in Melbourne, you no doubt recognise one of the many marks Jeff Xu has made on the city in recent years.
The property developer's Golden Age Group has had its fingers in hospitality, leisure and residential projects across Melbourne's CBD. You may have dined on dumplings at Hu Tong, warbled off-key at Rainbow Karaoke, or stayed at the new Sheraton Hotel at the top of Little Collins Street. Or perhaps you're bought into Xu's latest venture, the 75 storey Victoria One tower. 
The $350 million residential tower, coming to the corner of Elizabeth Street and Franklin Street, will bring 629 apartments to the western precinct of Melbourne's CBD.
According to Xu, the structure was built with the Victorian way of life in mind, with its green facade and fins reminiscent of the Victorian landscape. He said the apartments were intended for both investors and owner occupiers.
"We wanted to show that an investment product doesn't mean a cheap product," Xu said, adding that with a 24 hour concierge, the tower would "feel like a hotel".
The 241 metre tall tower on a 932 square metre site will include 115 one bedroom, 482 two bedroom and 32 three bedroom apartments, with two levels of commercial space facing Elizabeth and Franklin Streets. With the smallest apartment coming in at 41 square metres of floor space, the units would not meet proposed minimum space requirements for Melbourne apartments, which specify a 50 square metre minimum for one bedroom units.
But buyers don't seem to mind the squeeze: about 60% of the stock in Victoria One has already sold, with more than half going to local buyers. One bedroom apartments are priced from $370,000, with two bedroom apartments starting at $473,000 and three bedroom apartments selling from $890,000.
The tower will also include 163 car parks, a pool, spa, gym and a communal entertaining area. Construction is set to begin late this year, with completion due for 2016.
Xu and Golden Age continue to keep busy with other Australian projects, including The Emerald, a 282-apartment tower at 35 Albert Street. There is also 450 St Kilda Road, the low-rise overlooking the Botanical Gardens that Xu purchased from the Carter family for a reported $20 million sum earlier this year.
His CBD spending isn't reserved for towers and restaurants alone. Xu and affiliated parties were also major donors to Melbourne Lord Mayor Robert Doyle's re-election campaign.
With more than 1,000 apartments on the way, Xu isn't worried about the sustainability of Melbourne's appetite for high density inner city residences.
"We're not scared of the boom and bust cycle," said Xu. "That's where opportunities come from."
Property professionals are invited to sign up for the <a href="/news">upcoming Property Observer webinar on Off the Plan Marketing and Sales Masterclass</a>.
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jrichardson-uRX5hFdKfN

Jeff Xu ushers in Melbourne's apartment age with Victoria One

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If you're hoping to compete in the next season of Seven's House Rules, you'd better act fast.
Seven will only accept applications for the next two days, with the process closing on 30 July.
Don't panic - if you and prospective reno partner can sit down and describe yourselves, your home and <a href="/expert-insights/building/house-rules-season-three-do-you-have-what-it-takes">any past violent episodes</a>, you can still be in the running for House Rules season three.
You'll be one step closer to having your home renovated by a competing team of strangers, and if all goes to plan, you could end up like <a href="/expert-insights/building/underdogs-adam-and-lisa-win-house-rules-season-two">season two winners Adam and Lisa</a> or season <a href="/news/carly-and-leighton-crowned-house-rules-winners-with-450-000-adelaide-mortgage-wiped-clean">one winners Carly and Leighton</a>, who had their mortgages wiped clean.
South Australian couple Carly and Leighton are now selling their renovated home, after Seven cleared their mortgage. They originally purchased the Warradale house in 2012 for $450,000.
The three bedroom, two bathroom 1950s house with a stone facade has an open plan interior with floorboards throughout the living spaces. The north-facing backyard has an outdoor entertaining area and lawns, with a detached studio with bar that could double as a home theatre room or bedroom.
While listing agents Troy Tyndall and Nicholas Hage of Toop&amp;Toop Norwood note that $400,000 were spent on renovations on the house, they make no mention of its House Rules history.
According to The Herald Sun, Carly and Leighton have purchased a home in Sydney, with plans to move interstate and "follow their renovation dreams".
Would-be winners can apply at the <a href="https://au.tv.yahoo.com/house-rules/#page1" target="_blank">House Rules </a><a href="https://au.tv.yahoo.com/house-rules/#page1" target="_blank">website</a>.
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Time running out for House Rules hopefuls as season one winners list home

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Brisbane's median house price increased by 6.9% in the year to June 2014, according to new data from Australian Property Monitors.
On a quarterly basis, Brisbane's median house price rose by 1.5% - the eighth consecutive quarter of price growth for the city. The city exhibited the third highest quarterly and yearly rate of growth of any capital cities (behind Melbourne and Sydney).
The median house price of $477,352 is a record high for Brisbane, eclipsing its June 2010 peak. However, the figure is still below the national median of $627,940. Australian Property Monitors' results show that Brisbane's house market is the third cheapest in the country, with only Hobart and Adelaide having lower median house prices of $329,186 and $462,129 respectively.
Andrew Wilson, senior economist for Australian Property Monitors and the Domain Group, said the Brisbane housing market is "gathering momentum".
"Over the June quarter, the Brisbane median house price increased by +1.5% - a similar result to the +1.8% growth recorded over the March quarter," said Wilson.
"Having finally recovered from its previous price peak recorded in June 2010, the Brisbane median house price is now at a new record level of $477,352. Brisbane house prices increased by +6.9% over the year ending June which was the highest annual result for the city in four years."
Those <a href="/news/qld/brisbane-should-you-be-looking-at-a-house-or-unit">considering a unit or house in Brisbane </a>will note that rather than increasing, Brisbane unit prices actually decreased on a yearly basis, by 0.7%. The median price of a unit in Brisbane is now $364,641. In the quarter to June, the median unit price increased by 0.8%.
<img src="/images/2014/07/24/apm-chart-july-24-one.gif" alt="">
<img src="/images/2014/07/24/apm-chart-july-24-two.gif" alt="">
Source: Australian Property Monitors
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Brisbane house prices reach record high: APM

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The producers of The Block certainly know that if it ain't broke, you don't fix it.
The show's blend of drama, deadlines and dollars is a winning formula for the series (if the huge ratings and the turnout for last year's open for inspections are anything to go by), and the characters are the most essential part of the process. For the upcoming The Block Glasshouse, it seems the producers have been busy mining the past to recreate their success.
We've been <a href="/expert-insights/building/the-block-glasshouse-promos-released-series-coming-soon">introduced to the contestants of this series</a> in a number of promotions, and Property Observer thought some of the couples looked eerily familar.
Maxine and Karstan
<img src="/images/2014/07/18/karstan%20and%20max.jpeg" alt="">
Image courtesy of Channel 9.
We aren't the first to think that this season's young loved up New South Wales contestants reminded us of another season's young loved up New South Wales contestants.
Host Scott Cam spoke to The Herald Sun about Maxine and Karstan, saying:
"We had the super Ks ... (Kyal and Kara), this year we've got the supermodels.
"She (Maxine) is beautiful, he is this good looking bloke and they are just this perfect couple."
Kyal and Kara (pictured below) were the fan favourites last year - will Maxine and Karstan be just as popular?
<img src="/images/2014/07/25/kk.jpg" alt="">
Image courtesy of Channel 9.
Darren and Deanne
<img src="/images/2014/07/18/darren%20and%20dee.jpeg" alt="">
Image courtesy of Channel 9.
Maxine and Karstan aren't the only ones who have been compared to last season's contestants. It seems The Block Glasshouse's producers push to market Dee as reality TV shrew of the year is working. Before the series has even aired, News.com.au has published an article headlined: "Is The Block: Glasshouse contestant Deanne Jolly the most volatile Blockhead yet?"
Josh and Jenna (pictured below) of the 2011 incarnation of The Block also proved a reliable source of tantrums.
<img src="/images/2014/07/25/l_joshandjenna.jpg" alt="">
Image courtesy of Channel 9.
Carlene and Michael
<img src="/images/2014/07/18/michael%20and%20carlene.jpeg" alt="">
Image courtesy of Channel 9. The promo material released do their best to paint Carlene as a witch (complete with cackle), while both Carlene and Michael admit that it's the man of the couple that has trouble controlling his temper. Like Darren and Deanne, the young parents could turn out like Josh and Jenna.
Then again, they could turn out like any of the 14 (at our last count) blonde-woman-and-man couples that have already appeared on the series. Simon and Shannon
 <img src="/images/2014/07/18/shannon%20and%20simon.jpeg" alt="">
Image courtesy of Channel 9.
Will the two-Aussie-larakin-blokes-who-are-a-bit-cheeky-but-still-good-natured-and-very-loveable trope work for The Block Glasshouse?
The producers are clearly hoping so with Simon and Shannon, but it's unclear whether the Brad and Dale combo (pictured below) will be quite as successful with double Dales and no Brad.
<img src="/images/2014/07/25/721372-51cabcea-9454-11e3-8d43-e004d36a6c9a.jpg" alt="">
Image courtesy of Channel 9.
Chris and Jenna
<img src="/images/2014/07/18/jenna%20and%20chris.jpeg" alt="">
Image courtesy of Channel 9.
It's hard to pinpoint exactly where Chris and Jenna will fit in The Block universe. To our knowledge, the show has never featured an Asian Australian contestant before, nor a Maltese-Indigenous Australian.
So far, they're being marketed as the quirky renovation rookies as Steve and Chantelle were (pictured below) - let's hope they do as well out of the deal as last season's winners.
<img src="/images/2014/07/25/steve-chantelle.jpg" alt="" style="line-height: 1.3em;">
Image courtesy of Channel 9.
The Block Glasshouse starts this Sunday on Channel 9 at 6:30pm.
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The Block Glasshouse draws on the past for inspiration

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Do you remember the last time you took a good look at your own ceiling?
It was probably through bleary eyes, while you struggled to get out of bed this morning. Unfortunately, most of us don't have good reason to stop and look at our own ceilings.
But not everyone lives under white paint and down lights - some houses really have ceilings to celebrate. Here are five.
<ol>
<li>
<a href="https://%20http:/www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-queenscliff-115014703" target="_blank">79 Hesse Street, Queenscliff, Victoria</a> <img src="/images/2014/07/25/1.jpg" alt=""> The beautiful kauri pine barrel vaulted ceiling of this converted church in Queenscliff is the central feature of the home, contrasting against the stark white minimalist interiors. Now a four bedroom, four bathroom house, the building was originally built as a church in 1888, designed by architect TJ Crouch. It was deconsecrated in 1981 and was then used as an art gallery, tea rooms and a bric-a-brac shop. The current owners purchased the building in 2007, converting it into a home in 2011. It's currently on the market for $1.9 million to $2.1 million. <img src="/images/2014/07/25/1a.jpg" alt=""> 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-bondi-115464395" target="_blank">330 Birrell Street, Bondi, New South Wales</a> <img src="/images/2014/07/25/2.jpg" alt=""> There's no eggshell white or dove grey tones to be seen in this Bondi building. Operating with a more-is-more ethos, owner Kevin Du Val has furnished the property with art nouveau curiosities, which extend upwards to the ceiling. He currently operates a massage clinic out of the property, which is soon to be auctioned. <img src="/images/2014/07/25/2a.jpg" alt=""> 
</li>
<li>
Moorecrest, California <img src="/images/2014/07/25/6.jpg.jpg" alt=""> Du Val's Bondi offering rather reminds us of the new Hollywood <a href="/news/from-incredibad-to-chaplins-pad-andy-samberg-and-joanna-newsom-buy-legendary-hollywood-home">home of Brooklyn 99 star Andy Samberg and musician Joanna Newsom</a>. The renovated 1921 home, once rented by Charlie Chaplin, features elaborate interior details, from the carved cornices and decorated columns to intricate oriental designs on the ceilings. <img src="/images/2014/07/25/7.jpg.jpg" alt=""> 
</li>
<li>
<a href="/expert-insights/buying/nicholas-dattners-collingwood-warehouse-passed-in">16/21 Wellington Street, Collingwood, Victoria</a> <img src="/images/2014/07/25/8.jpg" alt=""> "The Kiln" is a rather more rustic offering, a warehouse apartment which was once part of the former Carlton United Breweries between Collingwood's Victoria Parade and Gipps Street. Built in 1862 and fitted out in 1999, the apartment recently passed in at $1.35 million when <a href="/news/furniture-maker-nicholas-dattner-lists-collingwood-kiln-apartment">put to auction by furniture maker Nicholas Dattner</a>. <img src="/images/2014/07/25/9.jpg" alt=""> 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-cape+tribulation-117495083" target="_blank">3762 Cape Tribulation Road, Cape Tribulation, Queensland</a> <img src="/images/2014/07/25/5.jpg" alt=""> The futuristic Alkira is unique in every way, and its ceilings are no exception. Designed by architect Charles Wright, the living space of this concrete trophy home features a scatter of concrete "beams", highlighted by long LED strips. Surrounded by 73 acres of rainforest, Alkira sits in a man made lake, with a helipad located 100 metres from the house. The trophy home, which owners hope will catch the attention of a local billionaire or perhaps "Silicon Valley and Asian entrepreneurs and Hollywood stars", is on the market for $14 million. <img src="/images/2014/07/25/5a.jpg" alt="">
</li>
</ol>
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Things are looking up: Five trophy homes with fantastic ceilings

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All eyes are on Brisbane at the moment.
Many commentators are tipping price growth for the city, which some say is at an <a href="/expert-insights/terry-ryders-20-reasons-the-countrys-property-boom-isnt-over">earlier stage in its price cycle</a> than Sydney or Melbourne.
According to RP Data-Rismark's Home Value Index, Brisbane has seen a 7% increase in dwelling values in the 12 months to June, with a median dwelling price of $455,000. Brisbane's median price sits below Sydney's, Melbourne's, Perth's, Darwin's and Canberra's, and the city has exhibited much more price growth in the past year than the slightly cheaper Adelaide, where dwelling values increased only 2.9%
But if you're considering a Brisbane purchase, should you be looking at a house or unit? Property Observer breaks down the data.
Houses
The median price for a house in Brisbane and the Gold Coast was $480,000 for the quarter to June, according to RP Data. If you're looking for a property around that price, you might see something like <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-the+gap-116695639" target="_blank">1256 Waterworks Road in The Gap</a>, pictured below.
<img src="/images/2014/07/24/brisbane%20house.jpg" alt="">
About 20 minutes from the Brisbane CBD, the 1970s weatherboard three bedder sits on a 683 square metre block. It sold for $490,000 earlier this month.
If you are intending to rent out your Brisbane house, you can expect to see 4.5% yields. For houses, Brisbane offers the third best gross rental yields of all the capital city markets, behind Darwin and Hobart.
Asking rents for Brisbane houses have increased by 1.4% in the past 12 months, according to SQM Research's Weekly Rents Index, to $443.70 per week. For a three bedroom house, you can expect to attract around $419.90 per week. Houses have seen a 4.5% increase in asking rents in the past three years (5.1% for three bedroom houses) Brisbane currently sees a 2.4% vacancy rate for all homes. Houses in Brisbane increased in value by 7.2% in the last 12 months, according to RP Data.
For our take on Brisbane units, see the next page.
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
Units
While Brisbane house prices have increased by 7.2% in the last year, Brisbane's units have seen slightly more modest growth in the same time. Units in the city have increased 5.4% in price on a year-on-year basis, and now have a median price of $385,000.
For that price, you might see a unit like this <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-qld-enoggera-117011319" target="_blank">two bedroom apartment in Enoggera</a>, about 15 minutes from the Brisbane CBD.
<img src="/images/2014/07/24/brisunit.jpg" alt=""> It sold for $390,000 in early June. For a two bedroom unit in Brisbane, you can expect $352.40 per week in rent. The median weekly asking rent for all units in the city is $366.70. Unit asking rents have actually decreased slightly on yearly basis, down 0.1%. But three-year asking rent growth was higher for units than houses in the city, with a 4.6% increase against a 4.5% increase. You're likely to see more rent per dollar spent on purchase with a unit than you will with a house in Brisbane. Units in the city yield 5.4% according to RP Data, above 4.5% from houses. Brisbane's units offer the second highest yields of any capital city, with only Darwin units on top. House or unit? Houses have shown stronger price growth than Brisbane units in the past year, but units currently offer better rental yields.
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Brisbane: Should you be looking at a house or unit?

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Yesterday, the Commonwealth Bank cut its five-year fixed mortgage rate by 70 basis points to 4.99%, prompting cuts from competitors NAB and Westpac.
It's a record low for the bank. As <a href="/expert-insights/finance/competitive-cba-cuts-five-year-rate-to-record-low-as-inflation-quickens">Jonathan Chancellor reports</a>, Westpac and NAB matched the Commonwealth Bank's rate within a few hours. 
Westpac's 0.80% cut only comes into effect on July 28. Their offer includes a discount of 0.2% under the bank's Premier Advantage Package. It will be available to both new and existing customers for a limited time.
NAB dropped its five-year fixed rate by 70 basis points, matching the Commonwealth Bank's 4.99% rate. The new rate will be available from tomorrow. It also cut rates on its three and four-year fixed rate home loans, with a 4.99% rate for its four-year product and 4.94% rate for its three year fixed rate loan. 
ANZ is the only of the "big four" banks to hold the interest rate on its five-year fixed rate loan after yesterday's Consumer Price Index figures were released. Its offers a 5.94% rate on the product. Michelle Hutchison of rate comparison website Finder.com.au says those worried about potential interest rate rises should consider adopting a fixed loan while rate remain competitive.
"Long-term fixed rates such as five-year terms are riskier than shorter terms for one or two years because you have potentially more to lose because you're betting over a longer period of time," said Hutchison. However, she warns borrowers against taking up a loan purely because of a low interest rate.
"It's great to see the big banks dropping their rates and being more competitive but borrowers need to look into all the conditions and details before jumping into a fixed home loan. For instance, Commonwealth Bank's five-year fixed rate of 4.99% must be taken out in their packaged deal which means it has an annual fee and you need to open other accounts with the bank too," she says.
"The problem with fixing your home loan right now is that there's a chance more lenders will follow the major banks' lead and drop their five-year fixed rates even further so borrowers could miss out on even bigger savings. 
"Borrowers are also betting on their fixed rate staying below variable rates for most of the next five years. But fixing brings reassurance that your mortgage repayments won't move which can be worthwhile if you're budget is tight or you're planning to have a reduced income for starting a family or going overseas in the next few years," Hutchison explains.
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NAB and Westpac meet CBA's rate cut

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A new franchise agreement will see a 226 room Holiday Inn Express hotel built in Brisbane's Spring Hill.
The first Holiday Inn Express property in Brisbane, the hotel is the second in the 15-strong portfolio of Holiday Inn Express hotels developed by Pro Invest under a $150 million fund. Their first Holiday Inn Express hotel will open next year at Macquarie Park in North Ryde, Sydney.
Situated close to Brisbane CBD's "Golden Triangle", the Holiday Inn Express hotel will be accessible form Brisbane airport, catering to corporate visitors and holidayers.
The Brisbane Holiday Inn Express will have two meeting rooms, on-site parking and a breakfast area dubbed "The Great Room".
Matthew Tripolone is head of development for the InterContinental Hotels Group's (IHG) Australasian division, which signed the deal with Pro Invest. He said the Holiday Inn Express brand is one of the group's fastest growing brands.
“The development of the new Holiday Inn Express in Brisbane is a significant milestone for IHG as it marks our return to the city with the entry of our largest and one of our fastest growing brands into the market," said Tripolone.
"As the third most populous city in Australia, Brisbane has immense growth potential as it sees steady increase in the number of domestic and international travellers. This hotel will cater to the growing demand for hotel accommodation in the Spring Hill district, offering a great guest experience to smart, savvy travellers regardless of whether they are visiting for business or leisure.”
Pri-Invest Group chief executive Ronald Barrott said the group sees "a lot of potential for the brand in Australia", following previous international Holiday Inn Express projects.
"With the construction of our Macquarie Park property commencing in the coming weeks and this second property now signed, we are on track to developing the 15 hotels under our partnership as we actively scour the country for strategic locations to expand the presence of Holiday Inn Express."  
In Australia, IHG operates under three brands: InterContinental Hotels and Resorts, Crowne Plaza and Holiday Inn. The group has 27 hotels operating nationally.
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Brisbane's first Holiday Inn Express hotel to be built in Spring Hill

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It's an experience most buyers have gone through before.
You stumble upon your dream property on a listing website. It has everything - high ceilings, water views, plush carpets and just enough room for you, the partner and the dog - and all at the right price.
But when you drive out to the suburb and walk through at the open home, something's not quite right. Those ceilings might be high to a toddler, but you almost bump your head on the chandelier. The plush carpets stink of old cigarettes and it turns out you can't get a glimpse of water unless you climb up the gum tree in the backyard. Another Saturday morning wasted.
Listing photos are there to make a property look good - good enough to get the buyers in the door at an open home, rather than scrolling past on a website. Unfortunately, that often means that they gloss over all the negatives of a property, the ones that really matter to buyers. For those traveling across the city for a new home purchase, or even interstate, this can result in a big loss of time and money, with the added opportunity cost of all those other properties you could have looked at in the mean time.
To combat rip-offs, scams and simple oversells, two Queensland entrepreneurs have launched a new business that lets consumers check out real estate, goods, accommodation and even dating prospects without ever leaving their own home.
The 'Go To Guy' network, founded by Garry Harding and Greg Rawlinson, is made of 350 inspectors across the country who can visit, document and report on properties or goods before you purchase them. An independent report, which you can compare against the original seller's description, will cost you $55.
The company also offers rental inspections for landlords who can't align their schedule with their tenants or property managers, client and asset verification for credit providers. They'll even meet prospective dates for online daters who are wary of "catfish".
According to the company's founders, they were inspired to launch the service after being disappointed by their own online purchases. Chief executive Garry Harding said the service can save buyers money and time.
“Online fraud and deception is growing as fast as e-commerce itself but our Go To Guys can now save consumers time and money by verifying the existence, condition and seller’s claims of any item so shoppers can avoid falling victim to misrepresentation,” said Harding.
“In the real estate field, we can check on the property’s actual condition and see if those water views actually exist. In the travel sector, we can visit holiday villas to see what they really look like and in the increasingly popular arena of internet dating – an emotional minefield at the best of times - we meet up with a client’s prospective partner with their consent to verify their identity and appearance and take photos for the client.”
Co-founder Greg Rawlinson said the independent, unbiased service helped consumers make decisions away from the sellers' interests.
"Essentially, we eliminate the guesswork and uncertainty of purchasing online by unearthing any problems and presenting a product as it really is, irrespective of whether the buyer has seen the item or person or not,” Rawlinson said.
“And our service is available 24/7 - just like the world of online shopping. We enable our customers to shop from anywhere and purchase anything with confidence.”
It remains to be seen whether consumers will be willing to pay $55 for a property inspection by the Go To Guys Network - especially as they'll most likely need to pay for another inspection from a building inspector further down the line if they do intend to buy the property. But for those who can't bear the thought of another Saturday morning wasted, it might just be worth it.
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Reality for realty: New service offers inspections for online property shoppers

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In his latest Ryder Report, regular observer Terry Ryder takes on the so called "national property boom".
Unlike some other property commentators, Ryder doesn't believe Australia is in the grips of an emerging bubble or boom. Here are his 20 reasons why the country's boom isn't over yet.
1. "There is no national boom" For the market to bust, there would have to be a boom, and Ryder doesn't think we have one - outside of Sydney, anyway. He's previously criticised media outlets and <a href="/expert-insights/finance/the-rba-just-doesnt-get-the-housing-market">institutions like the Reserve Bank of Australia</a> for focusing too much on Sydney's market when generating national commentary. 2. "Sydney still has momentum" According to Ryder, any claims that Sydney's boom is over is "based on a single month's data", a <a href="/expert-insights/latest-media-fiasco-shows-exactly-why-monthly-movements-are-meaningless">criticism he's stated before</a>. He says: "buoyancy remains in Sydney's market". 3. "Melbourne still has momentum" Ryder says that a growing number of Melbourne suburbs are seeing rising sales activity, with even greater price rises likely to come. 4. "Brisbane just starting to rise" While the other Eastern Seaboard capitals are yet to reach their peak, Ryder says Brisbane is just getting started. "Brisbane is well behind Sydney in the current cycle and is only beginning its upward movement," says Ryder. He predicts prices will rise this year. 5. "Adelaide poised to grow" Ryder believes Adelaide "will be the surprise performer of 2014," with increasing sales activity across the city.
This list continues on the next page.
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
 
6. "Hobart starting to show life"
Despite "being ignored in national assessments", Hobart's market activity is also beginning to pick up, believes Ryder. 7. "Perth still has momentum" Although the city's sales have "plateaued" after a strong run in 2012 and 2013, Ryder thinks they remain "elevated", with possible future price growth. 8. "Darwin showing signs of revival" Despite signs of a slowing market last year, Ryder says Darwin appeared to pick up in late 2013 and early 2014. He believes prices in the city are likely to keep rising. 9. "NSW regional cities rising" Ryder thinks New South Wales' regional centres have picked up some heat from Sydney's market, or have their own local reasons for growth. According to Ryder, "their run is just beginning". 10. "QLD regional cities rising" Cairns, Toowoomba, the Sunshine Coast and the Gold Coast are leading the state's regional cities into "strong growth phases", according to Ryder.
 
This list continues on the next page.
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
 
11. "Other regional centres on the up"
Ryder says regional markets south of Perth are growing. He believes South Australian and Victorian regional centres are also picking up, as is Launceston in Tasmania. 12. "Sales volumes still rising" Ryder cites the latest update of his own Price Predictor Index which points to increasing sales volumes across the country, which he says "inevitably leads to price growth". 13. "Consumer sentiment improving" According to Westpac's July consumer sentiment report, there is a "healthy rise in confidence" regarding real estate, says Ryder. 14. "Budget news has been digested" "There was a brief period in May when decision-making halted as people digested the Federal budget we seem to have moved on," says Ryder. 15. "Building approvals are rising" Ryder notes that building approvals increased 16% in 12 months to April 2014, with South Australia, Western Australia, New South Wales and Queensland all leading.
This list continues on the next page.
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
 16. "Lending for homes still rising"
On an annual basis, lending for home loans is up 12%, says Ryder. He notes double-digit growth in six states and territories. 17. "Investor activity rising" Lending for investors is up by an even greater proportion, with 28% annual growth and 1.1% growth in the month to April. Investor lending has increased by 17% or more in five states (presumably annually), says Ryder. 18. "Asian investment growing" Though Ryder believes foreign buyers' impact on local markets is exaggerated, he does believe Asian investors are continuing to affect inner-city unit markets. 19. "Interest rates remain low" Ryder believes Australia's current record low interest rates are "unlikely to change in the near future". 20. "National boom is just starting" "Contrary to claims that 'the boom is over', all the evidence says that a national boom is really just beginning", claims Ryder.
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Terry Ryder's 20 reasons the country's property boom isn't over

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/broadbeach-qld-4218">Broadbeach</a> offers plenty of reasons to live vertically, but moving from a substantial family home into an apartment can expose the compromises of high-density living. Privacy, room for guests and usable living space tend to matter more when an apartment is intended as a permanent home rather than an occasional coastal base.

A typical residential floor at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-eveleigh-broadbeach-7-9-surf-parade-broadbeach-qld-4218">The Eveleigh</a>, on Surf Parade,&nbsp;contains just four apartments. The 94-residence development by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/hirsch-faigen">Hirsch &amp; Faigen</a> is predominantly made up of expansive three-bedroom homes, with a limited collection of half-floor penthouses above.

Across the apartment floors, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a> has used the relatively limited number of residences to give each home greater access to natural light and outlook. Living spaces extend towards full-height glazing, while a series of bay windows frame selected views across the Pacific Ocean, city and hinterland rather than treating the building edge as a continuous wall of glass.

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“The apartment floors deliver a collection of homes that embrace controlled outlook via a series of bay windows deliberately framing moments of view,” Rothelowman Director Kim Lowman said.

From outside, those projecting forms contribute to the tower’s faceted profile. Strong horizontal and vertical elements establish its proportions, while the changing position of the sun alters the light, shadow and reflection across the façade throughout the day.

The same attention moves inside the apartments, where the material palette combines warm timber, natural stone, metallic detailing and softer curved forms. Kitchens sit within the main living zone, with stone island benches, integrated joinery and European appliances, before the living areas extend towards the glazing and the outlook.

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Three genuine bedrooms provide room to accommodate family and guests, while two secure car spaces and storage address some of the practical considerations that can become more noticeable when moving from a larger home. Feedback from the display suite has centred on the warmth and restraint of the interiors, with buyers commenting that the residences feel like homes rather than conventional coastal apartments.

A limited collection of half-floor penthouses occupies the upper levels, increasing the scale of the living spaces and adding private balconies and elevated finishes. From this position, the outlook extends between the ocean and hinterland.

Outside the private residences, The Eveleigh separates its shared spaces between the podium and rooftop. The podium is centred on wellness, with subtropical landscaping surrounding a swimming pool and pool terrace, yoga garden, private gymnasium, sauna and hot and cold plunge facilities. Landscaped retreats and pavilions provide additional places to sit away from the main recreation areas.

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Higher in the building, a rooftop pavilion and private dining suite sit alongside resident lounge, barbecue and outdoor dining areas, opening towards panoramic views across the ocean, city and hinterland.

“Buyers are no longer just looking for an apartment, but a lifestyle where they can relax, reset, and enjoy a balanced way of living,” Hirsch &amp; Faigen Director of Sales Matt George said.

Interest to date has come from established owner-occupiers and interstate lifestyle purchasers, including buyers planning a future move to the Gold Coast. Many are coming from larger homes and want to reduce ongoing maintenance without giving up space for family and guests, privacy, two car spaces or the ability to entertain at home.

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Much of that daily life can also take place beyond the building without requiring a drive. Kurrawa Beach and Pratten Park are an easy walk from Surf Parade, while Pacific Fair, Oracle Boulevard, The Oasis, restaurants, cafés, entertainment and public transport are also within walking distance.

The Eveleigh is Hirsch &amp; Faigen's fourth Gold Coast development since entering the market in 2021, following The Hemingway at Palm Beach, The Emerson at Kirra and Yves at Mermaid Beach. Each of the preceding projects sold out before completion.

“Broadbeach had been on our radar throughout our time operating on the Gold Coast,” the developer said. “Following our projects in Palm Beach, Kirra and Mermaid Beach, Broadbeach represented the natural next step for the business.”

The Surf Parade site brought together proximity to the beach, protected coastal outlooks and walkability to dining, shopping and recreation. Hirsch &amp; Faigen also identified the street as an emerging premium residential address, with enough separation from Broadbeach's busier destinations to retain a quieter environment at home.

The Eveleigh is now under construction by Maxcon, with completion forecast for mid-2028. Three-bedroom residences are currently available from $2.87 million.

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Joel Robinson

The Eveleigh brings house-like apartments to Broadbeach

A long-stalled Campbelltown development site is back in play, with new plans for 139 apartments set to supersede a mixed-use scheme approved almost a decade ago but never built.

The new proposal for 28 Cordeaux Street would deliver 116 market and 23 affordable apartments in a part 14-storey building, bringing a substantial new project into a Campbelltown market where new apartment supply remains limited.

Plans have been filed over the 3,092 sqm corner site at Moore-Oxley Street, around 600 metres from Campbelltown Railway Station and the city-centre retail core.

The site already carries a mixed-use residential approval dating to 2016. Doroch Architects has now been engaged on a larger replacement scheme, which is progressing as a State Significant Development Application following a Housing Delivery Authority determination in August 2025.

The apartment mix comprises 39 one-bedroom, 72 two-bedroom and 28 three-bedroom residences. Two-bedroom apartments make up just over half of the project, while three-bedroom homes account for 20 per cent.

<img alt="First look: New 139-apartment plans revive long-stalled Campbelltown city centre site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="136dd5b9-3791-4da6-9e31-76f533f5b4de" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Campbelltown%20da2.png?VersionId=LgOSy9nwf5u.MGswBBwaGGxuX8QpHSl_" />

Of the 139 apartments, 23 will be delivered as affordable housing under the in-fill affordable housing provisions of the Housing SEPP. The affordable component represents 15 per cent of the residential gross floor area and will be managed by a registered Community Housing Provider.

Doroch has sought to break the scale of the building into two distinct elements, with a masonry podium of around four storeys establishing the street edge before the residential tower steps back above.

The corner position has shaped that approach. Cordeaux Street faces toward the commercial and civic centre, while Moore-Oxley Street leads into the lower-scale residential neighbourhood to the south, and the design verification report describes the site as "bridging the commercial core to the north and established residential areas to the south."

The podium will be expressed predominantly in face brick, while the upper levels shift to brushed and grooved concrete cladding with darker metal detailing. Recessed sections, deep balcony edges and landscaping break down the upper form, with an approximately 11.8-metre setback to the northern boundary addressing the adjoining St Peters Anglican School.

<img alt="First look: New 139-apartment plans revive long-stalled Campbelltown city centre site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c8b3d2d3-c561-4bfc-a5d9-a68c0c10dac1" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Campbelltown%20da1.png?VersionId=AeAEyJU02Gk2k5noUj2StziCvdQ7fW4B" />

Campbelltown has been starved of new residential developments in the last decade.

The only other notable development set to come to market this year is ALAND's Queen Square, a mixed-use precinct on over two hectares that will comprise apartments above a vibrant ground-level retail and hospitality dining precinct.

First look: New 139-apartment plans revive long-stalled Campbelltown city centre site

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

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

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

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

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