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Vacancy rates in Wollongong and the Northern Rivers are now lower than those in the Sydney inner city, according to the latest Real Estate Institute of New South Wales (REINSW) Vacancy Rate Survey.
The number of available residential rental properties available in Wollongong, the Northern Rivers and Albury all fell significantly last month. REINSW President Malcolm Gunning said that Wollongong offered an alternative to Sydney for renters.
“Wollongong vacancy rates have hit lows last seen almost three years ago, with a decline of 0.8% to 1.5%. Across the Illawarra region vacancy rates are at 1.6%, down 0.5%,” said Gunning.
A <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/rental-properties/3-21-crown-street-wollongong/Property-Details-rent-residential-7080571" target="_blank">two bedroom unit</a> (pictured below) located close to WIN Stadium and the Crown Street mall is currently being offered to renters at $280 per week.
<img src="/images/2014/05/13/3-21-Crown-Street-Wollongong-NSW-2500-Real-Estate-photo-1-large-7080571.jpg" alt="">
“Wollongong is an attractive proposition for those who wish to relocate from Sydney. Its beachside location is a more affordable option for those who are seeking a more relaxed lifestyle and this is putting pressure on the number of properties available,” Gunning said.
The <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/rental-properties/14-flinders-street-wollongong/Property-Details-rent-residential-7032733" target="_blank">three bedroom house pictured below</a> is available to rent in Wollongong for $430 per week, at a rental yield of 4.3%. It’s a fourteen minute bus ride from Wollongong University, and a 10 minute walk to the beach.
 <img src="/images/2014/05/13/14-Flinders-Street-Wollongong-NSW-2500-Real-Estate-photo-1-large-7032733%201.jpg" alt="">
Gunning noted that low vacancy rates showed that the state’s housing issues extended beyond the capital city.
“It is important for new Premier Mike Baird to take a holistic approach to the housing issues facing the state. It is not isolated to Sydney,” said Gunning.
Vacancy rates for both Albury and the Northern Rivers fell by 0.5% last month. REINSW recorded an April vacancy rate of 1.6% for Albury and 1.5% for the Northern Rivers.
Albury now has the same proportion of properties available to rent as the Sydney inner city market, where the vacancy rate has risen to 1.6%. According to Gunning, the inner city remains Sydney’s tightest market, despite an 0.3% vacancy rate increase.
“In middle Sydney availability rose 0.4% at 2.0% and outer Sydney was up 0.2% at 1.7%,” said Gunning. The Sydney-wide vacancy rate was up 0.3% to 1.7% last month.
Newcastle also saw an increase in its vacancy rate, which rose 0.5% to 3%, despite vacancy rates down by 0.1% overall for the Hunter Region.
Vacancy rates also fell in the South Coast, which dropped by 0.3% to 2.2% for the month, and New England, down 0.1% to 3.4%.
The Central West region has the greatest proportion of rental accommodation available, with vacancy rates jumping 1.4% to 4.9%. Coffs Harbour also saw a slight downturn in its rental market, where the vacancy rate fell 0.2% to 4%.
Observer <a href="/expert-insights/investing/too-late-to-buy-sydney-try-wollongong-or-dubbo-tamworth-and-gunnedah-and-newcastle">Terry Ryder tipped Wollongong</a> as a potential hotspot, noting that the city has defied recession predictions following the downsizing of Bluescope Steel.
"A lot of infrastructure and property development money is pumping into Wollongong and real estate markets are rising," said Ryder.
Photo courtesy of Flickr/<a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/" target="_blank">Creative Commons</a>.
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jrichardson-uRX5hFdKfN

Wollongong rental market - tightest for three years - and lowest in NSW: REINSW

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A Great Ocean Road Icon, the Lorne Theatre will go up for auction tomorrow with vendors expecting bids over $2.5 million.
The site of many a first date, the art deco era Lorne Theatre was built in 1937 as tourism expanded following the extension of the Great Ocean Road to the seaside town. Tomorrow’s auction will mark the first time the building has been offered since it was purchased by the current vendors in the late 1960s.
The sale has some worried that the seaside town of Lorne will lose the historical landmark. According to The Geelong Advertiser, a public meeting was called to consult with Heritage Victoria over potential development on the site. The cinema’s lease is due to finish in 2016.
While selling agent Shaun Venables of Burgess Rawson says that the theatre has received interest from developers, but that many are keeping the theatre’s historical value in mind.
“Most of the developers we’ve spoken to are sympathetic to the theatre’s current use – they’re considering redevelopment, rather than development.
“It’s a 530 seat theatre, which has been full once in the last 25 years. Given the building’s height and corner situation, there’s a great opportunity to utilise the building and make a big difference to the strip.”
The Lorne Theatre is one of the few single screen theatres left in Australia. The heritage listed theatre is known for the quality of its acoustics, thanks to the poor amplification available in the 1930s. It underwent an upgrade last year and now has a state of the art digital projection and sound system.
The 715 square metre corner site with 56 square metres of dual frontage onto the Great Ocean Road is advertised as drawing $78,180 in yearly rent. 
The Lorne Theatre at 76 Mountjoy Parade will be sold <a href="https://melbourne.burgessrawson.com.au/3P0787" target="_blank">in a portfolio auction at Melbourne’s Crown tomorrow</a>. It is being sold through Venables and Raoul Holderhead of Burgess Rawson and Michael Coutts and Ian Stewart of Great Ocean Road Real Estate Lorne.
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Iconic Lorne Theatre up for auction tomorrow with $2.5 million plus hopes

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Buyers in Perth paid a median price of $547,000 for houses in the quarter to April, according to the latest RP Data Rismark index.
Property Observer looks to recent sales in the West Australian capital to see just what $547,000 will buy you.
<ol>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-wa-forrestfield-116312443" target="_blank">8 CHERRY TREE ROAD, FORRESTFIELD <img src="/images/2014/05/12/1.jpg" alt=""></a> This four bedroom house sold for $542,000 last month through Frank Mills of Centurion Real Estate, High Wycombe. Set on a 600 square metre block, it also includes two bathrooms and a kitchen and dining area with separate lounge. Outside, there is also a covered entertaining area and an underground pool. Price: $542,000 Bedrooms: four Drive to CBD: 24 minutes 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-wa-currambine-115851527" target="_blank">67 CALEDONIA AVENUE, CURRAMBINE <img src="/images/2014/05/12/2.jpg" alt=""> </a>Another four bedroom Perth home sold that weekend for $535,000. The house in Currambine is located in the <a href="/expert-insights/buying/suburb-spotlight-joondalup-adjusting-to-moderating-market">Joondalup region, north of the Perth CBD</a>. The suburb had a median house price of $540,000 in March. The master bedroom of this house has a walk in wardrobe and en suite. There is ducted air conditioning throughout the home and a formal lounge and dining in addition to the open plan kitchen and living area. Price: $535,000 Bedrooms: four Drive to CBD: 25 minutes 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-wa-stirling-115774427" target="_blank">4/13 SANTAROSA WAY, STIRLING <img src="/images/2014/05/12/3.jpg" alt=""> </a>
Vendors sold this home for $545,000 earlier this year. The townhouse has three bedrooms and two bathrooms, with a dining and living area and a separate formal lounge. Tenanted at the time of sale, the home was last advertised to renters at $500 per week. The vendors purchased the house on a block of six for $300,000 in 2005.
Price: $545,000
Bedrooms: Three
Drive to CBD: 14 minutes
</li>
<li>
 <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-wa-morley-116369795" target="_blank">30 HARROWSHILL ROAD, MORLEY </a> <img src="/images/2014/05/12/4.jpg" alt=""> 
Set on 728 square metres, this home in the north eastern suburb of Morley sold for $547,000 in March. The suburb, 10 kilometres from the Perth CBD, had a median house price of $515,000 for the month. This home has three bedrooms and there’s a powered workshop on the plot. When it was on the market, agents Natasha Harwood and Shane Stewart of Midland Real Estate Plus Australia pushed the property’s subdivision and development potential.<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-wa-morley-116369795" target="_blank"> </a>
Price: $547,000
Bedrooms: three
Drive to CBD: 19 minutes
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-wa-canning+vale-115761715" target="_blank">68 BIRNAM ROAD, CANNING VALE <img src="/images/2014/05/12/5.jpg" alt=""></a>
The vendors got more than double their purchase price when they sold this home in Canning Vale. The house sold for $550,000 – it was purchased for only $215,000 less than six years earlier. The four bedder south of the river was advertised by the new owners for $500 per week in March.
Price: $550,000
Bedrooms: Four
Drive to CBD: 22 minutes
</li>
</ol>
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What can you get for Perth's $547,000 median house price?

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The Northern Territory government has <a href="/expert-insights/investing/northern-territory-s-fhog-directed-to-new-builds-only-from-2015">abolished its first home owners grant for established homes</a>, extending the grant only to new dwellings from January 2015.
While announcing the changes, Treasurer David Tollner acknowledged that first home owners grants have added upwards pressure on housing prices. The government cited economist Saul Eslake’s <a href="/news/the-senates-inquiry-into-affordable-housing-six-submissions">submission to a Senate inquiry into affordable housing</a>. Eslake criticised the grant, saying that when applied to established homes, it "served to simply to exacerbate the already substantial imbalance between the underlying demand for housing and the supply of it."
According to Tollner, the unintended inflationary effects of the first home owners grant were a factor in the government’s decision to abolish the grant for established homes.
"That’s why the Territory government will direct the first home owners grant solely towards the construction or purchase of new homes from next year," said Tollner.
"By targeting the first home owners grant towards the purchase of newly built homes, the grant is more likely to contribute to growth in housing supply and employment in the construction sector."
The Territory government will maintain the payment for first home owners of established homes for eight months.
"...ultimately, we want this grant to encourage the construction of new homes, create more jobs in the residential construction sector and improving housing affordability by increasing housing stock." Tollner said.
"This is a far better result than merely creating a churn in existing dwellings that is widely accepted as having an inflationary effect on the cost of housing."
Eslake is not the first industry figure to criticise the first home owners grant. Writing on the grant last year, <a href="/expert-insights/investing/slow-demise-of-first-home-owner-grant-schemes-monique-sasson-wakelin">observer Monique Sasson commented</a>:
"The scheme is meant to make property more affordable for first home buyers. Unfortunately, experience shows that the grants don’t achieve this end.  Instead, the nominal increase in purchasing power it delivers to first home buyers transmits directly into higher prices for the properties they hope to buy.
"The real beneficiaries are the vendors of properties that first timers buy."
The Northern Territory follows Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland and the Australian Capital Territory in its removal of the first home owners grant for established properties.
 
 
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Northern Territory government acknowledges that FHOGs for established houses have "inflationary effect"

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The Reserve Bank of Australia has noted that the strong established housing market has stimulated consumption in its latest Statement of Monetary Policy.
In its outlook for 2014-15, the Reserve Bank predicts that low interest rates will continue to support the housing market. Low rates are also expected to boost the construction of new dwellings and household consumption.
According to the Reserve Bank, a “pronounced increase in dwelling investment is underway”, with growth higher than was forecast three months ago. Increasing housing turnover is expected to stimulate renovation activity, which the Bank notes has “to date been quite subdued.”
The market for new housing remains strong, with building approvals also surpassing previous expectations. Forward looking indicators such as loan approvals and first home owner grants for new dwellings are also showing strong growth.
The Reserve Bank cites low interest rates, rising housing prices, average rental yields and first home owner grants for new dwellings as key drivers for housing investment.
Nationally, house price inflation has moderated somewhat in recent months. The Reserve Bank also notes that auction clearance rates have declined from their recent highs, while loan approvals remain stable. According to the Reserve Bank, "it remains to be seen whether these signs of tempering conditions represent a shift to a more sustainable growth rate for housing prices."
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RBA’s May 2014 statement: Dwelling investment increasing

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Treasurer Joe Hockey will tomorrow announce the Abbott government’s first federal budget.
The Coalition pledges to return the budget to surplus by 2023-24. With talk of a <a href="/expert-insights/investing/australia-s-economy-is-healthy-so-how-can-there-be-a-budget-crisis">budget “emergency” or “crisis”</a>, <a href="/news/john-symond-fears-fallout-from-overly-tough-federal-budget">some are worried that the government will deliver a tough budget</a> to the detriment of the economy. 
Here's what the experts think of the prospective federal budget and the impact it will have on the country's housing sector.
<img src="/images/2014/05/12/rogers-profile.jpg" alt="" style="float: right;">DALLAS ROGERS - Research Fellow, Urban Research Centre at University of Western Sydney
It’s worth remembering on budget night that we all live in subsidised housing. The great Australian dream to own a house has long been underwritten by the great Australian housing subsidy. Whether you are a public housing tenant, a private renter or a homeowner, chances are your house was subsidised through a rental subsidy, housing grant or taxation credit. There will be housing winners and losers on budget night.
It’s not looking good for public and social housing subsidies this budget. The Commission of Audit urged the Commonwealth to limit its involvement in public and social housing by providing rent assistance to income support recipients. If Hockey followed through with these recommendations social and public housing tenants would have to pay market rent for their currently subsidised housing. The National Rental Affordability Scheme would go too. This would be bad news for housing equity. The frail and elderly, those with carer responsibilities or complex medical needs, or very low-income Australians in public or social housing would be hit hardest.
Comparably, The Commission of Audit was silent on private housing taxation. Private housing subsidies are like chocolate, we know that we should use them in moderation but we just cannot cut back. We often pretend that they are not subsidies at all. AMP <a href="https://m.afr.com/p/national/big_talk_small_acts_on_bn_budget_AkRrPW2xaygUjpIodRK8IK">chief economist</a> says ‘changes to negative gearing or the CGT exemption on the family home would be seen as “unAustralian”’. <a href="https://grattan.edu.au/">Grattan Institute</a> data suggests that more than 90 per cent of private housing subsidies go to property owners over private renters (see below). Including the roughly $30 billion pa capital gains tax benefit for owner-occupiers and the $7 billion pa negative gearing benefit for landlords. Most tax concessions do not generate new housing stock. They all, with the addition of the first homebuyers grant, drive up property prices. This is good for homeowners and developers, and bad for renters.
<img src="/images/2014/05/12/grattan.jpg" alt="">
If we want housing equity and socially just cities we need to rethink public and private housing subsidies. There is scope for innovative private sector models and taxation policy – e.g., National Rental Affordability Scheme – that provide additional housing stock. But we will always need housing tenure forms that operate outside the market for the poorest and most disadvantaged Australians.  
You might also want to read: <a href="/expert-insights/joe-hockey-treating-australian-public-as-fiscal-fools-ahead-of-the-federal-budget">Joe Hockey treating Australian public as fiscal fools ahead of the federal budget</a>
 
SHANE OLIVER - Head of investment strategy and chief economist, AMP Capital <img src="/images/stories/2014/02/21/shane-oliver-profile.jpg" alt="shane-oliver-profile" style="float: right;">
There is a possibility that negative gearing might be tightened, but at this stage I’d only put it in the possibility camp. I think it’s probably unlikely. I can’t see any other changes that directly affect housing. The government has virtually ruled out including family homes in the means test for pensions, and it’s unlikely that they’ll remove CGT tax-free status for the family home.
Most implications will be indirect. That’s the biggest risk. The government is fairly intent on significant fiscal tightening to deal with the “budget emergency.”
That means tougher means testing and reducing eligibility criteria for family benefits. We might see possible tax hikes for high income earners and numerous cuts to the level of government spending. Those changes could adversely affect spending power in the economy and could affect housing demand. The risk is that they’ll get carried away. There’s tough budget talk prior to every budget. Often things aren’t quite as tough as you’ll expect, but the rhetoric has been quite a bit tougher this time.
[The Coalition] have painted themselves into a corner, saying that there’s an emergency. Having talked up the budget crisis, there’s a bit more pressure than normal for the government to deliver.
There is a potential upside for property in the sense that if the budget is too austere and too aggressive with cut backs, it may mean lower interest rates for a longer period of time. [AMP Capital] have predicted a September or October rate hike, but we’d be inclined to think that that won’t occur if the budget is too tight. And if upper income tax rates rise, people might more inclined to negatively gear.
You might also want to read: <a href="/expert-insights/what-do-we-need-to-see-from-the-federal-budget-the-experts-have-their-say">What do we need to see from the federal budget? The experts have their say</a>
Article continues on next page. Please click below.
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ROBERT SIMEON - Director of Richardson Wrench Mosman and Neutral Bay <img src="/images/authors/fullbody/Robert-Simeon.png" width="150" style="float: right;">
Historically real estate has been a minor player come budget time. The government of the day prefers to address the industry from more of a macro positioning, given that is by far an easier option when compared to a microeconomic analysis. For all intents and purposes, if the real estate/housing demographic were that essential then it would be fair to say there would actually be a designated Housing Minister which is not the case with the Abbott led government.
Landlords and investors can breathe a sigh of relief - negative gearing won’t be touched, although given the recent Commission of Audit it would be fair to say at some time in the future this will come under much greater scrutiny. When one looks at the real estate/ housing markets there is the one common theme; record high rents and record high average prices across the board. Again this is easy to disguise as this will be camouflaged with macroeconomic dialogue.
Infrastructure will be front and centre given the recent COAG meeting endorsed the compilation of an asset sales list that would see them attain federal funding based on these sales for a massive infrastructure spend. The only problem with this is that the infrastructure expenditure is already decades behind where it should be today.
Sadly there won’t be any incentives for the housing construction industry which is seriously lagging behind where it should be today – this is reflective with what is happening to property values and rents. The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) released their building approvals data to March 2014. It showed that in the past year 188,070 houses/units were approved yet the real figure is that Australia needs to be building over 300,000 each year to get close to meeting demand.
The latest ABS figures identify that total household debt in Australia stands at $1.84 trillion as at December 2013 – this is equivalent to $79,000 for every person living in Australia and is the highest amount ever recorded for the last 25 years.
Foreign ownership of Australian residential real estate should and must come into budget considerations given the government restrictions are weak and at best need tightening.
As I mentioned previously, all the machinations pertaining to the property industry will be covered with macroeconomic spin. The budget is all about the government’s financial positioning which will be hinged to weak productivity, an ageing population and falling terms of trade.
So expect the focus to be on government debt and how we all will be expected to lend a hand to correcting this economic anomaly. Just don’t mention microeconomics.
You might also want to read: <a href="/expert-insights/investing/budget-week-is-all-about-huff-and-puff">Budget week is all about huff and puff</a>
LEANNE PILKINGTON - General Manager, Laing+Simmons<img src="/images/2014/05/12/pilkington-profile.jpg" alt="" style="float: right;"> 
Affordability issues have come to the point where they are more than simply a barrier for first home buyers looking to enter the market. People in this bracket are increasingly dismissing even obtaining a mortgage as a lost cause.
While existing property owners welcome reports of rising prices and investors continue to participate actively in the market, the pessimism among first home buyers is palpable. There is a definitely a feeling among this sector that property is simply a pipedream, one that might never come true.
The flow-on impacts in the coming years and decades could be huge and potentially disastrous. It’s time Governments at different levels recognise and respond to the challenges first home buyers face and to work with industry to generate new policies capable of providing optimism and driving first home buyer activity.
One of the key barriers to more first home buyers being able to participate in the market is the difficulty many have in accumulating a deposit.
Perhaps there is scope for some form of Government-backed savings scheme whereby those first home buyers serious about saving a deposit can access tax advantages or even Government contributions to match their own, be it means tested or otherwise. Another potential avenue for Government to investigate might be to enable first home buyers to access their superannuation to contribute to their deposit.
Encouraging investors to refresh their portfolios where it’s appropriate to do so might serve to release more stock to the market. While these ideas may vary in terms of feasibility and practicality, particularly as we prepare for a difficult Federal Budget, the point is clear: something needs to be done.
You might also want to read: <a href="/expert-insights/investing/the-reias-10-point-wishlist-for-the-federal-budget">The REIA's 10 point wishlist for the federal budget</a>
CATHERINE CASHMORE - Independent market analyst<img src="/images/authors/fullbody/Catherine-Cashmore.png" width="150" style="float: right;">
As we approach the federal budget, once again we have to endure another round of economic nonsense as the Treasurer tries to convince ‘ordinary’ Australians that the country is ‘running out of money’ – facing a ‘budget crisis.’
There is no evidence and no economic wisdom that indicates running a surplus is good for the economy. 
This is something <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D0iFiUfDqSw">Steve Keen</a> does an excellent job of demonstrating in a recent lecture given in Sydney, in which he shows the inevitable consequence to GDP should our Government attempt to do so.
Economic orthodoxy stubbornly insists on austerity measures to pay down government debt by imposing onerous taxes on its working population.
There are lessons that should have been learnt following the Great Depression in the 1930s. When the government tightens its belt for no other reason than a vain attempt to ‘spruik’ a surplus, it has the unwanted effect of withdrawing money from the economy – leaving the private sector (the working class population) to pick up the slack.
Therefore “repairing the [government] budget” is not putting the fate of  Australians on “the right track.”
It is the government’s responsibility to make sure our monetary system works for the population, by spending enough money into the economy to keep employment and productivity thriving. 
Catherine Cashmore's comment is an edited extract from <a href="/expert-insights/investing/economic-nonsense-and-the-consequences-for-future-generations">her column</a>. 
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Property Observer exclusive: Industry experts on Australia's 2014 federal budget

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Mother’s Day is upon us once more. Unfortunately, most mums will be saddled with supermarket chocolates yet again - and let’s be honest, we’re going to eat most of those anyway.
But what if you could get your mum a present she actually deserves: her dream home?
Property Observer surveyed the office to see what our fellow sons and daughters would buy their mums, if money was no object.
ROOM FOR THE ANIMALS: <a href="https://www.kayburton.com.au/property/1-21-sandy-point-road-somers" target="_blank">1-21 SANDY POINT ROAD, SOMERS</a>
Our editor Jennifer Duke nominated this country homestead in Victoria's Somers. 
<img src="/images/2014/05/09/somers1.jpg" alt="">
“When I moved to Victoria for Property Observer, one of my major upsets was having to leave my family and loved ones back in New South Wales,” said Jennifer.
“I'd bring them to this beautiful homestead in Victoria, just one hour from Melbourne. It's far enough to be quiet and peaceful, and close enough to visit.
“Mum would probably want to modernise some aspects to her taste, and add air conditioning, but there are tiles throughout - a luxury that British people love having in Australia - huge windows that she could look out of to paint her watercolours, and a beautiful walk in wardrobe to house all of her clothes.”
<img src="/images/2014/05/09/somers2.jpg" alt="">
The home is set on a sprawling estate, perfect for the family dogs.
“It's also on plenty of land - an absolute must for my mum and her beloved black labradors who enjoy long rambling walks together. I would never choose anywhere with a small yard, and this property sits on an incredible 220 acres. It also has beach frontage, and a dam, which would keep the pups (Colah and Deezel) very happy and reduce the many hours spent getting to the Bayview dog beach in Sydney.
"This home, called Western Park, has six bedrooms - enough for all three of us kids and other assorted relatives come Christmas time. I can imagine us all have a morning bucks fizz on the wrap around verandah, or a nice merlot and a very loud conversation that no neighbours could complain about.”
Assuming her parents can forgive the elephant and kangaroo statues around the property (as seen below), Western Park would make the perfect property for Jennifer’s mum.
<img src="/images/2014/05/09/somers3.jpg" alt="">
“Most importantly, there are gardens, fruit trees and a vegie patch. My mum is a prolific vegetable grower - even when visiting from interstate she usually hands me a bag of cucumbers and a jar of chutney to take back to Melbourne with me - and I can't see her ever giving this up.
“I know mum has expressed desires to have a dog rescue where she could home strays. This suits perfectly, with functional sheds across the property and yards that ‘incorporate holding paddocks and sorting pens, as well as sophisticated weighing and veterinary facilities’.
“And, finally, who wouldn't want to drive up a kilometre long Cyprus tree-lined drive, with views, to visit their mum.”
WIDE OPEN SPACES: <a href="https://raywhitelongreach.com.au/qld/longreach/1100298/" target="_blank">SANDLEWOOD ESTATE, LONGREACH</a>
Jason was another who picked a big country home for his mum.  This six bedroom semi-rural house is set on five acres.
<img src="/images/2014/05/09/longreach.jpg" alt="">
With two separate living areas, a formal dining room and a small sitting room, there’s plenty of space to entertain indoors.
<blockquote>
A big Queenslander on acreage — mum needs the wide open spaces — in the town of Longreach, where she grew up and can be close to her dear-old mum. – Jason
</blockquote>
There’s also a sizeable enclosed verandah, with screened windows and polished timber flooring. At the centre of the home sits a large kitchen with an island bench.
<img src="/images/2014/05/09/longreach2.jpg" alt="">
Outdoors, there’s also a barn style work shed, lawns and an aviary for the chooks.
OLD WORLD APPEAL: <a href="https://www.hockingstuart.com.au/15_RAGLAN_STREET_DAYLESFORD_VIC_3460" target="_blank">15 RAGLAN STREET, DAYLESFORD</a>
Haylee chose some standout regional homes for her mum. This Daylesford estate she picked out has an eight bedroom mansion in addition to a four bedroom homestead.
<img src="/images/2014/05/09/daylesford1.jpg" alt="">
The 1853 homestead includes all the furnishings required of a stately period home, with claw footed baths and an open fire place. There’s also a conservatory, a central living area, a commercial kitchen and separate formal dining room.
The eight bedroom manor has been used as accommodation in the past by tourists visiting Victoria’s spa country. Each of the eight bedrooms comes with an en suite, with the listing agents saying that at full capacity the manor house has room for 16 people. The manor house also has a central living room with a double sided fireplace.
<img src="/images/2014/05/09/daylesford2.jpg" alt="">
 
However, not all mums are after a country estate. Click the next page to see the beach side properties we think our mums would love.
 
 
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 BEACH VIEWS AND WARM WEATHER: <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-byron+bay-114275183" target="_blank">144 LIGHTHOUSE ROAD, BYRON BAY</a>
Property Observer’s production editor Jake Robinson selected a four bedroom home in Byron Bay with a $5.5 million plus price tag.
<img src="/images/2014/05/09/jake1.jpg" alt="">
“My parents have been going to Byron Bay on a regular basis for over 30 years now,” said Jake.
“No doubt the warmer climate, cafes and beach would make an appealing change for them, and for my own selfish reasons, a great place to visit.”
<img src="/images/2014/05/09/jake2.jpg" alt="">
The house has glass doors offering a terrific view of Byron Bay, while Jake’s mum would enjoy a sea view from the bath in the master bedroom’s en suite.
“It was a tough choice from the stock currently available but 144 Lighthouse Road got the nod due to its ample sized master bedroom, 12 meter swimming pool and aquarium in the foyer,” he said.
<img src="/images/2014/05/09/jake4.jpg" alt="">
PERTH WITH A POOL: <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-wa-cottesloe-116638647" target="_blank">28 JARRAD STREET, COTTESLOE</a>
Kirsten just missed out on nabbing this Perth home on Cottesloe’s<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-wa-cottesloe-116638647" target="_blank"> </a>Jarrad Street.
<img src="/images/2014/05/09/cottesloe.jpg" alt="">
“This one has just been snapped up by a lucky buyer, but if I could, I would have bought it in a heartbeat for my mum back in Perth,” she said.
“She’s always wanted to live in the swanky streets of Cottesloe.” 
<img src="/images/2014/05/09/cottesloe1.jpg" alt="">
“This period home is equal parts charming and lavish, and there’s a pool for when I come to visit!”
The three bedder set on 531 square metres includes Jarrah flooring throughout, pressed ceilings and open gas fireplaces.
<img src="/images/2014/05/09/cottesloe3.jpg" alt="">
“Plus, she used to point this street out to me when I was little, as it shares a name with my brother,” said Kirsten. “Perfect, no?”
BEACHSIDE LUXURY: <a href="https://www.rtedgar.com.au/?pagecall=property&amp;propertyID=2621625&amp;agentID=2634&amp;realestate=BRIGHTON_VIC_3186&amp;showGoBack=true" target="_blank">BRIGHTON</a>
As for my mum, when asked about her dream property, she delivered quite the list of requirements. I think I’ve managed to check most of the boxes with Merrybrae, a 1920s era home in the beachside suburb of Brighton.
<img src="/images/2014/05/09/brighton1.jpg" alt="">
A four bedder set on 1,040 square metres, it might be a little big for Mum and Dad, but with low maintenance gardens and paved outdoor entertaining areas, it wouldn’t be too labour intensive to care for. There’s plenty of room for the prized poodle and the beach is just down the road for the daily run.
<img src="/images/2014/05/09/brighton2.jpg" alt="">
What really seals the deal is the two sizeable kitchens. My mum has always dreamt of a home with an indoor kitchen and another outdoors – what Malaysians and Singaporeans refer to wet and dry kitchens.
The indoor one can be used for serving guests, while the outdoor one is where Mum can cook her (top notch) fish curries without offending Dad and the dog.
<img src="/images/2014/05/09/brighton3.jpg" alt="">
While buying a luxury home for our mums might never make the journey from daydream to reality, let's hope we can do a bit better than supermarket chocolates this Sunday.
Happy Mothers Day from Property Observer.
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Property Observer’s Mother's Day property picks

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Former conveyancer Pamela Redford’s professional licence has been suspended by the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal after she failed to submit audited trust accounts to Consumer Affairs Victoria.
The 59 year old’s company, Ambiance Property Group Pty Ltd, has also had its licence suspended.
The Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) said that Redford had failed to act in accordance with the Conveyancers Act 2006 and other relevant regulations. Redford and Ambiance were also uncooperative when working with inspectors.
Redford and her company did not submit audited trust accounts in 2010 and 2011, despite warnings to do so from Consumer Affairs Victoria. She and Ambiance held conveyancers’ licences from June 2009.
After Consumer Affairs Victoria investigated the missing accounts in 2012, they found a deficiency of $403, which Redford repaid immediately. However, she then failed to submit the required accounts, despite telling Consumer Affairs Victoria that auditors had been appointed. She also failed to hand over reports for 2012 and 2013.
Inspectors visited her company’s offices several times but could not gain entry. Consumer Affairs Victoria acted after being unable to make suitable arrangements with Redford.
After the suspension period is over, Redford and her company will remain unable to operate a trust account or deal with trust money as a condition of any conveyancing licences, and may only resume doing so at the discretion of the Director of Consumer Affairs Victoria.
To avoid having their conveayancing licences permanently cancelled, Redford and Ambiance must have outstanding trust accounts audited and lodge monthly reconciliations by 30 October 2014.
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Glen Waverley conveyancer’s licence suspended over trust accounts

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When it comes to real estate, first impressions count. But not every trophy home is a sprawling country estate or a full floor penthouse overlooking the Harbour Bay.
Sometimes, the most innovative homes in the country are tucked behind innocuous façades. Property Observer takes a look at three standout luxury residences that you’d never spot from the street.
ROSS STREET, TOORAK
<img src="/images/2014/05/09/front.jpg" width="451" height="451">
Designed by Melbourne architect <a href="https://www.robmills.com.au/" target="_blank">Rob Mills</a>, the face of this home is a far cry from some of Toorak’s more ostentatious entrances. With no windows facing the street at all, the home looks like little more than a concrete box with a timber panelled garage door. However, inside is a completely different story.
<img src="/images/2014/05/09/dzn_Ross-St-by-Robert-Mills-Architects-1.jpg" width="450" height="450">
The contemporary home is actually flooded with light, thanks to floor to ceiling glazed windows across the back of the house and all along the ground floor’s northern border. The home is dominated by a sculptural custom staircase, which winds upwards toward a large circular skylight.
<img src="/images/2014/05/09/dzn_Ross-St-by-Robert-Mills-Architects-11.jpg" alt="">
Minimalist interiors by <a href="https://www.hassellstudio.com/" target="_blank">HASSELL</a> and clever scaling allow light to be the major feature of this home. The house has polished concrete flooring throughout, while the frequent use of rectangles and squares in the fit out contrast against the curvature of the grand staircase.
<img src="/images/2014/05/09/dzn_Ross-St-by-Robert-Mills-Architects-8.jpg" width="450" height="646">
LIGHTBOX HOUSE, MELBOURNE
<img src="/images/2014/05/09/dezeen_Lightbox-House-by-Edwards-Moore_13.jpg" width="468" height="645">
Standing outside this small home in Melbourne’s inner suburbs, it looks like any other tiny single fronted brick cottage. But stepping back, one can see the house’s standout feature: a translucent roof that provides natural light for the home’s entire new upper level.
<img src="/images/2014/05/09/dezeen_Lightbox-House-by-Edwards-Moore_3.jpg" width="468" height="568">
Melbourne architecture and design firm <a href="https://edwardsmoore.com/" target="_blank">Edwards Moore</a> added a clean, contemporary upper level to the worker’s cottage. The light drawn in through the new translucent roof is carried through to the house’s ground level, thanks to white perforated metal floors that meet exposed timber rafters.
<img src="/images/2014/05/09/dezeen_Lightbox-House-by-Edwards-Moore_7.jpg" alt="">
The creative use of materials carries throughout the entire house, with a floating timber staircase and a black metal façade with standing seam cladding along the side of the upper level
<img src="/images/2014/05/09/dezeen_Lightbox-House-by-Edwards-Moore_1sq.jpg" alt="">
2 HARTLEY STREET, ROZELLE 
<img src="/images/2014/05/09/Rozelle-Terrace-House-01.jpg" alt="">
Another terrace cottage turned contemporary home, Sydney’s <a href="https://www.carterwilliamson.com/" target="_blank">Carterwilliamson Architects</a> dub this home the “Upside-Down Back-To-Front House” thanks to the home’s reversed entry.
<img src="/images/2014/05/09/Rozelle-Terrace-House-06.jpg" alt="">
Situated on a plot that falls from Hartley Street down a hill to Starling Street, the house previously was entered via the Hartley Street entrance.
Carterwilliamson moved the house’s entry to the bottom of the hill, allowing the residents to maximise the space on a narrow plot.The property now contains a studio over the garage, a protected courtyard, a garden and a sandstone lightwell in addition to the main house. 
Inside the main house, the contemporary fit out includes polished concrete floors, a hanging staircase and timber bench tops in the kitchen.
<img src="/images/2014/05/09/rozelle030.jpg" alt="">
The home’s most stunning feature though must be the house’s master ensuite, pictured below. Inserted in the house's existing pitched roof, the curved underside of the loft-style ensuite is timber clad and hangs over the bedrooms.
<img src="/images/2014/05/09/ArchiShot_007819.jpg" alt="">
Main photo courtesy of Orin Zebest/Flickr/<a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/" target="_blank">Creative Commons</a>.
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Hidden gems: The trophy homes hiding in plain sight

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The stamp duty exemption threshold for West Australian first home buyers has been cut from $500,000 to $430,000 in the state’s 2014 budget.
From July 1, those purchasing established properties priced under $430,000 will receive a full stamp duty exemption. Concessions will phase out progressively for purchases between $430,000 and $530,000. Previously, first home buyers still received some stamp duty concession for properties priced up to $600,000.
No changes have been made to stamp duty concessions for first home buyers of new house and land packages. If the vacant land is valued under $300,000, the first home buyer will not be required to pay any stamp duty. Purchasers of land priced up to $400,000 will be eligible for some form of stamp duty concession.
The Barnett government’s 2014 budget papers claim that stamp duty concessions for West Australian first home buyers are still relatively generous, with only Queensland first home buyers paying less duty on the purchase of a $450,000 established home.
The government has also announced a 10% increase in land tax across the board.
The lowered stamp duty concessions are forecast to save the government $222 million in the four years to 2017-18.
In last year’s budget, the West Australian government cut the First Home Owners Grant for established properties from $7000 to $3000. The grant has remained unchanged in this year’s budget. First home buyers of properties valued up to $750,000 are eligible for the $3000 grant for established properties and $10,000 grant for new properties. The $750,000 threshold is pushed up to $1,000,000 for those purchasing properties above the 26th parallel (around Shark Bay).
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Western Australia’s 2014 budget: First home buyer stamp duty concessions cut

<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.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149670 project_image_fid=360965]

“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.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149670 project_image_fid=360981]

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.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149670 project_image_fid=360966]

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.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149670 project_image_fid=360969]

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.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=149670]

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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377679]

The project will comprise three residential towers alongside a hotel, restaurants, cafes and a skybar, more than 1,600 sqm of ground-floor retail and almost an acre of landscaped gardens.

It represents the largest project undertaken by Reve Group, the development arm of the Kassis family, which has been building across the Hills District for more than 30 years through Kassis Homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377675]

Nova Rêve also represents a significant step up from the family's first apartment development, Grand Rêve, which was delivered nearby on Garthowen Crescent.

Grand Rêve introduced larger, house-like apartment layouts and premium inclusions including Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances to the Castle Hill market.

Nova Rêve takes that approach to a precinct scale, combining the residential component with hospitality, retail and substantial public and resident landscaping.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377685]

Reve Group Managing Director Sam Kassis said the project reflected the family's three decades of building in the Hills, which has evolved from trophy homes on quarter-acre blocks to larger-scale apartment development.

"Grand Rêve was our first apartment project here and it showed us what this pocket of Castle Hill could be. Nova Rêve is the refinement of that idea: not just apartments, but a place the whole suburb can use," Kassis said.

A key part of that approach is the hotel, which has been designed to operate as an amenity for the wider Castle Hill community rather than solely hotel guests.

It will include restaurants, cafes, skybars and all-day dining, alongside conference and event facilities catering to business functions, community groups and private events.

At ground level, more than 1,600 sqm of shops and cafes will open onto the surrounding streets and landscaped areas.

Almost an acre of gardens designed by Land and Form Studios will run through the precinct, incorporating pathways, seating, barbecue areas and children's play spaces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377680]

Reve Group's Romio Georges said creating an active ground plane had been central to the planning of Nova Rêve.

"There are gardens with pathways, barbecues, seating and play areas, shops and cafes opening onto the street, and a hotel with restaurants and a skybar that anyone in Castle Hill can walk into," Georges said.

The project's elevated position on one of Sydney's highest ridgelines will also provide apartments with outlooks toward the Sydney skyline, surrounding parkland and the Blue Mountains.

More than 80 per cent of the apartments will occupy corner positions, with Turner responsible for both the architecture and interiors.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152737]

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Jessie Richardson

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