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The Victorian, New South Wales and West Australian state governments have issued letters to property spruikers in their states outlining their obligations under consumer law.
Victoria’s consumer affairs minister, Heidi Victoria, spoke to <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-08/state-governments-warn-spruikers-to-stick-to-the/5581698?section=business" target="_blank">the ABC</a> about the high pressure, persuasive techniques used by property spruikers at seminars and events.
“The sort of things that we’re concerned about is, for example, a high pressure sales environment – so when people come along just for information, but then feel obliged to either spend money on an education program, or that type of thing,” said Victoria.
“We want to make sure they’re not feeling pressured into signing anything on the night, that they are given plenty of time. But also to understand that those operating in the space must give a 10 day cooling off period.”
In February, the ABC reported that West Australia, New South Wales and Victoria’s governments were monitoring 15 property spruikers. However, Victoria said though some property spruikers had received letters outlining their legal obligations, Consumer Affairs Victoria was not currently investigating any particular property spruikers.
“This is just more a general ‘get to know you’ sort of letter, and say, ‘these are your rights and obligations’,” Victoria said.
“We’re very much about educating people who are operating in any business. The type of letter that has gone out to them just outlines their responsibilities, and also their obligations, and of course if they don’t abide by their obligations, and if they’re not working correctly under Australian consumer law, then we can take it much further.”
Of people investing in property through a self-managed super fund, Victoria said consumers must know their rights.
“A lot of people have to understand that when they’re doing this sort of investment, that they need legal and financial advice,” she said.
“It’s not something that can be taken lightly. As I said, it really is something that many people put their life savings into, and the last thing they want is for that to go belly up. So they do need to know their rights, their obligations as consumers and make sure they are investing in something that’s going to be safe, and something that has that long term projection.”
To see the letter sent by West Australia’s Commissioner for Consumer Protection, see next page
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
West Australia’s notice to the state’s property spruikers warns them of penalties associated with misleading consumers, which include fines of up to $1.1 million.
In a letter sent to property spruikers by West Australia’s Commissioner for Consumer Protection Anne Driscoll, she states:
<img src="/images/2014/07/10/cut-out-july-10-one.jpg" alt="">
In particular:
<img src="/images/2014/07/10/cut-out-july-10-two.jpg" alt="">
 
She adds:
<img src="/images/2014/07/10/cut-out-july-10-three.jpg" alt="">
Driscoll notes that misleading claims “can result in penalties of up to $1.1 million for a corporation or $220,000 for an individual”.
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jrichardson-uRX5hFdKfN

Property spruikers receive warning letters from states

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Those who doubt the merits of flexible office environments may get the chance to experience them first hand with Inhabit.
Designed by furniture supplier Stylecraft in collaboration with POMT and Woods Bagot, the centre is located in Stylecraft's Sydney show room.
People will have the opportunity to test the merits of flexible activity based work office spaces with Inhabit, a space designed by furniture supplier Stylecraft in collaboration with POMT and Woods Bagot.
The fully functioning office will be open to Stylecraft’s clients and partners, who can book the space for a pilot group to test and try. Stylecraft’s managing director Anthony Collins says users will be able to carry out their usual work at Inhabit.
“We have created a space like no other in Australia,” said Collins. “User groups can spend a day or even a week at Inhabit for an immersive experience of flexible working – and still be doing their day jobs while they are there.”
Custom printed smartcards which give testers access to individual lockers and spaces in the office were supplied by POMT.
Users can book zones, desks and meeting rooms through an online system and individual screens in each bookable zone. WiFi is available throughout the entire office.
The office showcases the latest workplace trend: Bring Your Own Device, or BYOD, with staff members able to hook up laptops, tablets and smartphones to video conferencing equipment, screens, and an “interactive smart wall”.
Jeremy Pollack, director of strategy and development for POMT, says versatility is central to the space’s design.
“The challenge we had was not just designing technology to work for one company’s users, but for many companies’ users,” said Pollack.
“It’s BYOD taken to its extremes. We had to consider multiple different devices and multiple different applications which all have to work with the collaborative and AV technologies deployed.”
Since its June opening, a number of pilot groups have already tested out Inhabit.
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Flexible workplace open to trial at Inhabit 

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The Lifestyle Channel’s Selling Houses Australia will return next year, with filming currently taking place.
It seems filming for the new season began at the start of this month, with host Andrew Winters tweeting the following:
<img src="/images/2014/07/09/sha1.JPG" alt="">
As always, the locations for the new season are a tightly held secret, but Winters offers a little clue with this tweet:
<img src="/images/2014/07/09/sha2.JPG" alt="">
Winter, along with interior designer and The Block judge Shaynna Blaze and landscape designer Charlie Albone, will be helping home owners who are desperate to sell their properties, which might be struggling to attract buyers due to poor staging, bad conditions or the sellers’ attitudes.
Winter has been in the real estate business since he was 17, selling homes in Central London and Australia and imported his television franchise from England, where he was the host of Selling Houses – he was also the host of another spin off, Selling Houses Abroad.
Blaze is also a familiar face in renovation reality TV as a judge on The Block, with Belle Magazine editor-in-chief Neale Whittaker and interior designer Darren Palmer. Not to be beaten by Winter and Blaze, Albone has hosted other Lifestyle Channel shows including The Party Garden and Charlie and the Flower Show.
Selling Houses Australia makes a point of tackling particularly difficult to sell houses, including the three bedroom <a href="/news/nt/even-selling-houses-australias-andrew-winter-renos-didnt-turn-the-tide-on-rapid-creek-darwin-apartment-offering">apartment of boilermaker Robert Crispe</a>, which even Winter couldn’t  help - the home failed to sell at its filmed auction. 
If you have a home you’re hoping to offload, applications for the show are open through the <a href="https://www.lifestyle.com.au/tv/selling-houses-australia/apply/" target="_blank">Lifestyle Channel’s website</a>.
The application reads:
“Can't sell your home and need a makeover from the team? We want to hear from you!
“Selling Houses Australia are always searching for homes that will offer fresh challenges for the team. They've been hit with just about every real estate nightmare from on site pylons to flood affected homes, to inner city hovels but there are always more testing property scenarios out there and more home owners in unique circumstances.
“So, if your home is stagnating on the market with no buyer in sight then register now. Try to be as specific as possible with your dilemma whether it be location, décor, or an urgent need for a sale.
“Please note: your house must be on the market to qualify and must remain on the market after the makeover until it sells."
Applicants are asked to provide their contact details, descriptions of their home and its selling history (including the time it’s been on market, the agent’s details and the house price). They are also asked whether they are Foxtel subscribers. 
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Selling Houses Australia now filming 2015 season

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Westpac has cut the introductory variable interest rate for its Flexi First Option Home Loan product by 49 percentage points. 
Customers opening a new Flexi First Option Home Loan with conditional approval by 3 October will have a 4.84% per annum interest rate for the first two years of their loan. The interest rate converts back to 5.33% after the two year period (comparison rate 5.38%).
Westpac has offered an ongoing discount on its Flexi First Home Loan product since April 2013, with a 0.21% per year rate cut bringing the variable rate to 5.12%. Borrowers cannot take advantage of both discounts at the same time.
Westpac also removed its $600 Home Loan Establishment Fee on all new home loans. According to The Adviser, Westpac brokers were told the discounts would “position Westpac competitively in the market as the bank to assist your first home buyers with their home loan and other financial needs”.
The bank has applied special interest rate offers to a variety of its other variable products.
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Westpac courts first home buyers with 4.84% variable rate

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Australian architecture practices have a strong presence on the shortlists for the 2014 World Architecture Festival and INSIDE Festival.
According to BVN Donovan Hill national director James Grose, who has projects nominated for both festivals, there are 15 Australian architects, many with more than one project, shortlisted in the World Architecture Festival programme this year.
“Having multiple Australian projects being shortlisted in the World Architecture Festival awards is a tremendous confidence booster for Australian architects,” said Grose.
The Australian PlantBank at the Mount Annan Botanic Gardens in Sydney is shortlisted for the World Architecture Festival's Higher Education and Research category. The PlantBank (pictured below), designed by BVN Donovan Hill, is the largest seed bank in the Asia Pacific.
<img src="/images/2014/07/08/Australian-PlantBank-july-8-one.jpg" alt="">
<img src="/images/2014/07/08/Australian-PlantBank-july-8-two.jpg" alt="">
Photographer: John Gollings. Source: Supplied.
Auckland’s ASB North Wharf (pictured below), by BVN Donovan Hill in association with Jasmax, will be presented to the <a href="https://www.worldarchitecturefestival.com/" target="_blank">World Architecture Festival</a> and <a href="https://www.insidefestival.com/" target="_blank">INSIDE</a> juries in Singapore in early October. The project was recently awarded the New Zealand Architecture Medal, prompting the jury to comment: “In ASB North Wharf we may be seeing the future shape of work.”
<img src="/images/2014/07/08/abs-wharf-july-8--one.jpg" alt="">
<img src="/images/2014/07/08/abs-wharf-july-8--two.jpg" alt="">
<img src="/images/2014/07/08/abs-wharf-july-8--three.jpg" alt="">
Photographer: John Gollings. Source: Supplied.
The practice’s Regional Terminal at Christchurch Airport (pictured below) will also be showcased at the awards in Singapore. The project received the New Zealand Architecture Award for Commercial Architecture and Interior Architecture earlier this year.
<img src="/images/2014/07/08/Regional-Terminal-Christchurch-Airport--july-8-one.jpg" alt="">
<img src="/images/2014/07/08/Regional-Terminal-Christchurch-Airport--july-8-two.jpg" alt="">
<img src="/images/2014/07/08/Regional-Terminal-Christchurch-Airport--july-8-threee.jpg" alt="">
Photographer: John Gollings. Source: Supplied.
Other Australian architects which will be presenting projects for the World Architecture Festival and INSIDE festival juries include Bond University’s Abedian School of Architecture’s <a href="https://www.architectureanddesign.com.au/news/bond-light-installation-wows-the-crowds-at-viv-2" target="_blank">Cellular Tessellation light installation</a>, presented at Sydney’s 2014 Vivid Festival. 
Fender Katsalidis Mirams Architects’ Garangula Gallery is also shortlisted for the World Architecture Festival, as is the Bankstown Library and Knowledge Centre by Francis-Jones Morehen Thorp. Francis-Jones Morehen Thorp's Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery is shortlisted for the World Architecture Festival's New and Old category, and for the concurrent INSIDE Festival for its interior design.
The World Architecture Festival spans 30 categories and includes architects from more than 40 countries. INSIDE Festival occurs concurrently at the same venue, and recognises achievements in interior design and architecture. Festival attendees are able to view presentations from every shortlisted architect. 
For the full list of Australian projects nominated for the 2014 World Architecture Festival, see the next page.
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
The Australian projects nominated for the 2014: World Architecture Festival
<ul>
<li>AGL Lakeside Pavilion / Anthony Nolan, Kennedy Associates (Mt Annan, Australia)</li>
<li>Bankstown Library and Knowledge Centre / Francis-Jones Morehen Thorp (Sydney, Australia)</li>
<li>Three Chimneys House / Allen Jack+Cottier Architects (Country NSW, Australia)</li>
<li>Garangula Gallery / Fender Katsalidis Mirams Architects (Harden, NSW Australia)</li>
<li>Cellular Tessellation / Abedian School of Architecture, Bond University (Sydney,Australia)</li>
<li>Whyalla Regional Cancer Centre Redevelopment / Hames Sharley (South Australia, Australia)</li>
<li>Dandenong Mental Health Facility / Bates Smart Architects (in association with The Irwin Alsop Group) (Melbourne, Australia)</li>
<li>Australian PlantBank / BVN Donovan Hill (Sydney, Australia)</li>
<li>Medical Science 2, University of Tasmania / Lyons (Hobart, Tasmania, Australia)</li>
<li>Deakin University, Burwood Highway Frontage Building / Woods Bagot (Melbourne, Australia)</li>
<li>Sustainable Industries Education Centre – Tonsley Tafe / MPH Architects (Adelaide, Australia)</li>
<li>Abedian School of Architecture, Bond University / Cook Robotham Architectural Bureau LTD (Gold Coast, Australia)</li>
<li>Griffith University: Rescuing the Declining Campus/ Cox Rayner Architects (Brisbane, Australia)</li>
<li>Crown Mahogany Room / Bates Smart (Melbourne, Australia)</li>
<li>Pittwater House / Andrew Burges Architects (Sydney, Australia)</li>
<li>Aperture House / Cox Rayner Architects &amp; Twofold Studio (Brisbane, Australia)</li>
<li>Stamp House / Charles Wright Architects (Cape Tribulation, Australia)</li>
<li>Constance Street Public Housing / Cox Rayner Architects (Brisbane, Australia)</li>
<li>SILT / Liam Proberts (Brisbane, Australia)</li>
<li>Tasmanian Museum &amp; Art Gallery / Francis-Jones Morehen Thorp (Tasmania, Australia)</li>
<li>Sustainable Industries Education Centre – Tonsley Tafe / MPH Architects (Adelaide, Australia)</li>
<li>National Australia Bank, 700 Bourke St, Melbourne / Woods Bagot (Melbourne, Australia)</li>
<li>41X, Australian Institute of Architects Lyons (Melbourne, Australia)</li>
<li>Liberty Place / Francis-Jones Morehen Thorp (Sydney, Australia)</li>
<li>Sir Samuel Griffith Centre / Cox Rayner Architects (Brisbane, Australia)</li>
<li>Lune de Sang Sheds / CHROFI (Byron Hinterland, Australia)</li>
<li>Weddell’s First Neighbourhoods – Urban Design Concept / Troppo Architects with Taylor Cullity Lethlean (Darwin, Australia)</li>
<li>The Olive Grove / Ian Moore Architects (Wollombi, Australia)</li>
<li>Wentworth Park Competition / Fox Johnston-Nettleton Tribe (Sydney, Australia)</li>
<li>National Arboretum Canberra / Taylor Cullity Lethlean and Tonkin Zulaikha Greer (Canberra, Australia)</li>
</ul>
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Australian architects showcased on international stage

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The 10 most expensive homes in the country sold this week are all located in Queensland and New South Wales.
While <a href="https://www.myrpdata.com/" target="_blank">RP Data</a>’s top 10 sales list is usually dominated by east coast cities, Melbourne usually makes an appearance. Not so this week, when three Queensland properties made the top 10 list, with the remainder coming from Sydney.
The most expensive sale of this week is $1.5 million down from last week’s top sale, when <a href="/news/madame-korner-sells-longtime-double-bay-home">Judit Korner secured $7.2 million</a> for her Double Bay home. 
<ol>
<li>
<a href="https://www.offermann.com.au/buying/6_belmore_tce_sunshine_beach/" target="_blank">6 Belmore Terrace, Sunshine Beach, Qld </a><img src="/images/2014/07/08/ex1.jpg" alt="" style="line-height: 1.3em;"> The week’s top selling home was a two storey beach-facing house designed by John Mainwaring. The architect happened to also design another top 10 trophy home – the house at 145 Ryan St, West End, was last week’s eighth highest sale, selling for $2,475,000. This <a href="/news">Sunshine Beach</a> contemporary home (pictured in the gallery above), with six bedrooms and five bathrooms, sold for $5,700,000 through Tom Offerman Real Estate. According to the agent, the vendors tasked Mainwaring to design a “robust, calm and intimate” home. 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-church+point-114770779" target="_blank">2101 Pittwater Rd Church Point NSW <img src="/images/2014/07/08/ex2.jpg" alt="" style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.3em;"> </a><a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-church+point-114770779" target="_blank"> </a>Edenwood, a four bedroom, four bathroom house, sold through Re/Max for $5,075,000 this week. Set on a 3,465 square metre plot, the double storey home has panoramic views of Pittwater through mature gum trees. The home comes with a heated pool and spa, with a tennis court and pavilion. The vendors purchased the property for $2,080,000 in 2000.<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-church+point-114770779" target="_blank"> </a>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-vaucluse-115911775" target="_blank">2 Macquarie Road, Vaucluse, NSW </a> <img src="/images/2014/07/08/ex3.jpg" alt=""> This five bedroom, five bathroom home sold for $4,050,000 through Laing + Simmons Double Bay after 158 days on the market. The corner-positioned full brick three storey residence is set on 670 square metres of land. It opens with a double height marble foyer and continues through to several living and lounge areas, including an octagonal sitting room. It was advertised by the agents as having “good fung choi [sic]”. The listing information also says that the vendors would “now meet the market” for the sale. They made a loss on the property, paying $4,250,000 in 2010. 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://%20%20%20http:/www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-vaucluse-116319743" target="_blank">50 Hopetoun Avenue, Vaucluse, NSW</a> <img src="/images/2014/07/08/ex4.jpg" alt=""> A north facing house on a 940 square metre plot also secured $4,050,000 when sold through 1st City Hasemer &amp; Caldwell.Eyles Double Bay. The five bedroom, three bathroom house has a formal living room, separate dining and separate rumpus room with kitchenette and media room. Outside, there is a saltwater pool and courtyard. The house had last changed hands 38 years ago. 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-vaucluse-115094859" target="_blank">36 Olola Avenue, Vaucluse, NSW</a> <img src="/images/2014/07/08/ex5.jpg" alt=""> Another Vaucluse home made the top 10 list, with this house selling for $3,370,000 through Raine &amp; Horne Double Bay. Situated opposite Vaucluse park, the contemporary home has four bedrooms, five bathrooms, a study and a lobby and gallery area with a cathedral ceiling. There is a self-contained one bedroom area downstairs, with an office area and bathroom. Outside, there is a heated pool. The vendors unsuccessfully attempted to sell the home at auction in December last year. They held the property for 27 years – it was purchased for $833,500. 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-dover+heights-117141091" target="_blank">33 Military Road, Dover Heights, NSW</a> <img src="/images/2014/07/08/ex6.jpg" alt=""> This home secured $3,250,000 at a mortgagee in possession sale through BradfieldCleary Double Bay. With coastal views, the house has four bedrooms and three bathrooms, with open plan living areas. The property has a lap pool, wine cellar and a four-car garage, with a rooftop terrace. The master bedroom has its own private balcony. It was purchased in 2010 for $4,250,000. The former owner attempted to sell the house in March last year, but it failed to move after 194 days on the market. 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.raywhite.com/qld/south-brisbane/1062220/" target="_blank">51/410 Stanley Street, South Brisbane, QLD </a><img src="/images/2014/07/08/ex7.jpg" alt=""> A four bedroom, four bathroom South Brisbane apartment sold for $3,200,000 through Ray White Clayfield – more than eight times the <a href="/news/qld/what-can-you-buy-for-brisbane-and-the-gold-coast-s-median-unit-price">Brisbane and Gold Coast median unit price</a>. The north-east facing home has 731 square metres of floor space across a single level. The master bedroom has a marble en suite, walk in robe and private sitting room with access to a covered balcony with city views. Each of the apartment’s four bedrooms has balcony access, while the apartment also comes with a private rooftop pool and spa.</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-concord-117145251" target="_blank">11 Ludgate Street Concord, NSW</a>
<img src="/images/2014/07/08/ex8.jpg" alt=""> This three storey Sydney home sold for $2,790,000 through Georges Ellis &amp; Co Strathfield. The seven bedroom, four bathroom house is set on an elevated 697 square metre block with views of the Harbour Bridge and Sydney’s skyline. The vendors purchased the property for $1,310,000 in 2010. 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.raywhite.com/qld/new-farm/1149315/" target="_blank">106 Villiers Street, New Farm, QLD</a> <img src="/images/2014/07/08/ex9.jpg" alt=""> A contemporary home situated on Teneriffe Hill secured $2,605,000 when sold this week through Ray White New Farm. The entire top floor of the home is a dedicated master suite, while downstairs there are various living areas, a kitchen with marble and stainless steel benches and four more bedrooms. The lower living areas open on to a tiled outdoor entertaining area with barbecue and a lap pool. The vendors purchased the property for $1,175,000 in May 2008. 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-queenscliff-117335575" target="_blank">7 Hill Street, Queenscliff, NSW</a> <img src="/images/2014/07/08/ex10.jpg" alt=""> This semi-detached home sold for $2,450,000 through Cunninghams Property Balgowlah. The bright four bedroom, three bathroom house is located 400 metres from Queenscliff beach, with schools, shops and public transport within walking distance. The entire second storey is taken up by the master bedroom and a “parent’s retreat”, with a full en suite and north facing balcony. After just over two years of ownership, the vendors sold the property for around $500,000 more than the purchase price. They bought the home in April 2012 for $1,915,000.
</li>
</ol>
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The 10 most expensive home sales of the week: RP Data

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Victoria’s young Adam and Lisa have trumped West Australian couple Carole and Russell in the House Rules finale, thanks to the public vote.
The judges awarded Carole and Russell 19/20 for their final challenge, where they transformed Adam and Lisa’s back shed into a James Bond style bar and spa. Adam and Lisa trailed behind in the judge’s eyes, scoring 17/20 for their Balinese makeover of Carole and Russell’s dingy downstairs gym.
But it was the public who had the greater pull. Audiences had a say over 50% of the final score in an online poll, and Adam and Lisa won by an undisclosed margin. In <a href="/expert-insights/building/who-will-you-vote-for-in-the-house-rules-grand-final">Property Observer’s own poll</a>, our readers showed an overwhelming preference for the younger couple. 
The couple will now have their $546,000 mortgage paid off.
“This has just been unbelievable,” said Adam at last night’s live season finale.
“I couldn’t be more proud of Lisa. She came from not knowing anything to being absolutely stunning and amazing and I love her so much."
Dubbed the season's "dark horses" by Johanna Griggs, Adam and Lisa struggled in the first few challenges, receiving just 7/20 for their first makeover task, and forced to sleep in tents while carrying out renovations. Their fortunes changed when they renovated <a href="/expert-insights/building/swimwear-model-maddis-shoe-room-overhaul-as-house-rules-hits-tropical-pallarenda-townsville">Maddi and Lloyd's Townsville home</a>, receiving a first-ever clean sweep, with 10/10 scores from the judges and Maddi and Lloyd.
Lisa was just as Adam thrilled with the season's final result. “This means we can get married, start a family, and our life will be a little less stressful,” she said.
Adam told host Johanna Griggs that he didn’t initially know that Lisa had even applied for House Rules.
“I owe Lisa my life as far as I’m concerned,” said Adam.
Runners-up Carole and Russell thanked all the other contestants.
“Yeah we’re sad we didn’t win, but we’re so happy for [Adam and Lisa],” said Carole. “But look and what we’ve got – we’ve got this amazing home, it’s just sensational.
“We’re so lucky.”
At the beginning of the episode, Carole described her pre-makeover house as “an absolute dump”, which was now a “Balinese paradise”.
In the last challenge, the grandparents requested a “Balinese six star resort” for their spa and bar area. Despite almost running out of money, Adam and Lisa delivered, with a sunken spa, an outdoor shower and a bar featuring jarrah throughout.
They lost points for the poor functionality of their indoor corner seating, which backed onto stacked stone walls. Judge Wendy Moore awarded the team 9/10, while Joe Snell gave them 8/10.
Adam and Lisa received <a href="/expert-insights/building/the-wallpaper-house-rules-in-home-decorating-he-said-she-said">even more wallpaper</a> in their back shed after Carole and Russell pasted gold bullion patterned wallpaper all over the wall behind the bar. The judges loved their long bar set under the shed’s window, with Snell giving Carole and Russell 9/10 and Moore awarding them 10/10.
At the episode’s conclusion, Griggs announced that another season of House Rules will air next year. <a href="/expert-insights/building/house-rules-season-three-do-you-have-what-it-takes">Applications are now closed</a>.
Photo courtesy of Channel 7.
 Note: This article initially incorrectly stated that Wendy Moore gave Carole and Russell a 9/10, with Snell scoring them 10/10. It was in fact Moore that scored the team 10/10. The article has now been amended.
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Underdogs Adam and Lisa win House Rules season two

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Units in Brisbane and the Gold Coast sold for a median price of $370,000 in the three months to June, according to RP Data-Rismark.
Brisbane and the Gold Coast have the cheapest median unit price on the eastern seaboard and are behind Perth, which has a median unit price of $440,000. For the month, Brisbane and Gold Coast unit values were up 1.6%.
Property Observer looks at recent sales to see just what a $370,000 unit looks like in Brisbane and the Gold Coast.
<ol>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-qld-hope+island-116215299" target="_blank">8418 Magnolia Drive East, Hope Island</a>
<img src="/images/2014/07/07/brisbane_0004_bris%20july%207%20one.jpg.jpg" alt="">   This two bedroom unit sold for $375,000 late last month. Overlooking the <a href="/news">Hope Island</a> Golf Club and Lake Lugano, the unit is “a short buggy ride” to the nearby Marina shopping village. The apartment has two bathrooms, an open plan living area, two basement car spaces and 24 hour manned security. It was advertised as “FIRB [Foreign Investment Review Board] approved to buy for non-Australian residents”.
Price: $375,000
Bedrooms: Two
Drive to CBD (Gold Coast): 31 minutes
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-unit-qld-palm+beach-114501115" target="_blank">4/75 Jefferson Lane. Palm Beach</a>
 <img src="/images/2014/07/07/2.jpg" alt="">
A <a href="/news">Palm Beach</a> apartment, metres away from the beach, sold for $368,000. The tiled living area and each of the apartment’s two bedrooms have ocean views. The apartment also has one garage space, a separate workshop and a balcony overlooking the beach.
Price: $368,000
Bedrooms: Two
Drive to CBD (Gold Coast): 25 minutes
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-unit-qld-annerley-117083903" target="_blank">4/20 Sarah St, Annerley</a>
 <img src="/images/2014/07/07/3.jpg" alt="">
Sold in late May, this <a href="/news">Annerley</a> apartment secured $365,000. The unit has two bedrooms and one bathrooms, with views from Toohey Forest to Mount Cootha. The newly renovated top floor apartment has open plan living areas and an updated kitchen. The single car garage also includes an internal laundry and storage space.
Price: $365,000
Bedrooms: Two
Drive to CBD (Brisbane): Nine minutes
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-unit-qld-toowong-116920647" target="_blank">7/31 Bayliss Street, Toowong</a>
 <img src="/images/2014/07/07/brisbane_0001_bris%20july%207%20four.jpg.jpg" alt="">
This apartment in a brick block of 12 sold for $364,500 last month. The unit is located in <a href="/news">Toowong</a>, five kilometres west of the Brisbane CBD. Tiled throughout, the upper-floor, newly renovated apartment has two bedrooms, an air conditioned lounge and an updated bathroom. The vendors purchased the home ten years ago, for $210,000.
Price: $364,500
Bedrooms: Two
Drive to CBD (Brisbane): 10 minutes
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-qld-brisbane+city-116361711" target="_blank">128 Charlotte St, Brisbane City</a>
 <img src="/images/2014/07/07/5.jpg" alt="">
This one bedroom apartment with river views is situated right in the <a href="/news">Brisbane</a> CBD in Charlotte Towers. Located one block from the Queen Street Mall, the building has a gym, heated lap pool, outdoor plunge pool sauna and barbecue areas. The buyer can expect to pay $4,300 per year in body corporate fees and $1,900 a year in council rates and urban utilities costs.
Price: $365,000
Bedrooms: One
Located in CBD.
</li>
</ol>
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What can you buy for Brisbane and the Gold Coast’s median unit price?

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The Spanish-style estate of Reese Witherspoon and her husband, talent agent Jim Roth, is on the market.
At just over 0.5 hectares, Witherspoon’s double plot is a fraction of the size of the sprawling grounds that housed her Cruel Intentions character, Annette Hargrove, whose scenes at Mrs Rosemont’s house were filmed at the famous 64.5 hectare Old Westbury Gardens.
Even so, the property’s <a href="https://340northgunston.com/" target="_blank">US$14 million price tag</a> is nothing to sniff at.
Witherspoon’s Brentwood estate, in sweet home California, is situated at the end of a cul de sac in the gated Brentwood Circle community. The home has five bedrooms, each with its own bathroom with shower (which Witherspoon no doubt avoids for 24 hours after a perm) and a powder room. The master bedroom has a vaulted ceiling, fireplace, lavish marble bath, in built robes and a separate gym or office.
The house has a double height entry leading to a formal living room, formal dining room and a cozy library, where one could curl up around a copy of Les Laisons Dangereuses. 
The eat-in kitchen and family home open through French doors to the gardens and lawns, allowing residents to walk the line between the indoors and outdoors.  Outside, there is also a pool, which would hold enough water for elephants, and a spa, perfect for filming an application video for law school. The family friendly gardens hold a sunken trampoline, children’s playground and vegetable gardens.
Australia also makes its mark on Witherspoon’s home, with tall eucalyptus trees on the property.
Witherspoon’s home is selling through David Offer. A 2,682 square metre portion of the property is also available to purchase separately.  
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Elle Woods farewells Brentwood: Reese Witherspoon lists home

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Three people were arrested in Johannesburg earlier this week, following a five months investigation by the Major Fraud Squad of the Western Australia Police.
Working with the Australian Federal Police and South African authorities, the Major Fraud Squad have arrested and charged Asanda Zimkhitha, 28, of South Africa and Magnus Ikechukwu Kama, 38, and Nbubusi Sunday Okeke, 34, both of Nigeria with fraud, forgery and uttering.
The trio allegedly emailed a <a href="/news">Mandurah</a> real estate agency, which was managing a property owned by a South African person, pretending to be the owner.
After convincing the agency to change the owner’s contact details to their own, the three individuals allegedly asked to sell the property, communicating electronically and signing the agreements with forged signatures.
The property was put on the market and an offer accepted by the group, still pretending to be the owner. Hard copy documents were sent to the real owner’s real address in South Africa by post and the true owner contacted the agent, telling them the sale was unauthorised. The police were then contacted.
Last year, a separate fraud attempt occurred when Ntuen Promise Ekenmini collected documents regarding a fraudulent Falcon home sale (near Mandurah), also owned by a South African. Ekenmeni allegedly collected the document at a Lagos courier office, using a fake driver’s licence.
Detective Senior Sergeant Dom Blackshaw of the Major Fraud Squad of the West Australian police acknowledged the work of South African authorities and the Australian Federal Police.
“This successful outcome could not have been made possible without the excellent support and cooperation of the AFP and local authorities in South Africa,” said Blackshaw.
“This spirit of cooperation means that offenders who attempt these frauds can’t hide behind international borders, and we will be working effectively and cooperatively to make sure they are identified and caught.”
He also told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) that the trio won’t be extradited from South Africa.
"We won't prosecute for the attempt here because they will be adequately dealt with in that country and obviously save that large cost and the time spent trying to bring people into our country to try and prosecute,” Blackshaw told the ABC.
"We're hoping that these three, that are now going to be interviewed by the South African authorities, will even throw more light on how they are operating and the extent of the group,” he continued.
West Australian Commissioner for Consumer Protection Anne Driscoll said real estate and settlement agents must be wary of fraud attempts.
 “Unfortunately these fraud attempts will undoubtedly continue so all agents need to be vigilant at all times and have the processes in place to detect these fraud attempts at an early stage,” said Driscoll.
“It is an essential part of the identity verification procedures for any change of contact details by an owner to be confirmed by the real estate agency by sending a notification to the original addresses, both physical and electronic, that are on file. This will alert the real owners at an early stage if their details are being changed fraudulently,” she said.
“This confirmation should occur before any documents are sent which could give criminals even more information about the real owners and the property they are trying to sell. Requests to change details by owners of WA property living in Africa should raise a red flag and warrant special attention to property managers.
“There have been two successful and now six attempted real estate frauds reported to us in the past six years and all except for one of those cases have involved owners in South Africa. The other owner resided in Nigeria. Property managers who receive change of contact details and agents who receive sale requests from South African and Nigerian owners should apply intense scrutiny,” said Driscoll.
Under the Codes of Conduct, real estate and settlement agents have an obligation to make sure they carry out sufficient identity checks and compare all signatures against originals. If they fail to comply, they may be subject to disciplinary action.
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Three arrested in South Africa after WA home sale scam

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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