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The Reserve Bank of Australia has held the official cash rate at 2.25% for April.
The decision comes after the Reserve Bank dropped the interest rate in February from 2.50% to 2.25%.
The <a href="/expert-insights/finance/most-experts-expect-reserve-bank-will-hold-rates-for-april-finder">majority of experts surveyed</a> by comparison website Finder, including NAB's Alan Oster, anticipated that the Reserve Bank would announce that rates would not change this month.
CoreLogic RP Data's head of research Tim Lawless says a potential rate cut later in the year is likely to see home values continue to rise.
"The Reserve Bank has previously stated that they will be looking towards the regulatory framework to minimise risk in the housing market and it is clear that APRA are vigilant for any deterioration in lending standards across Australia's lenders," says Lawless.
"The buoyant housing market conditions should continue to support growth in housing construction which in turn provides a strong multiplier effect on the Australian economy, with increased housing activity flowing through more spending on items such as building materials, appliances, home furnishings and white goods. 
"More importantly, with population growth slowing and construction increasing the disconnect between housing demand and housing supply is also reducing which may also alleviate some of the increases in home values."
Michelle Hutchison, of comparison website Finder, notes the benefit of the Reserve Bank's decision to first home buyers.
"Today's decision by the Reserve Bank to leave the cash rate unchanged at 2.25% is great news for first home buyers, as lower rates have led to higher consumer confidence and increasing property prices," says Hutchison.
"The past year saw the median property price increase by 7.4 percent to $559,000 (CoreLogic RP Data). If first home buyers have to borrow over $38,000 more for an average property – from $520,484 to $559,000 – the higher property price would outweigh the last rate cut."
"In fact, even if there was another cash rate cut, it won't outweigh the extra cost in monthly repayments if you paid $38,000 more for a property," she explains.
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jrichardson-uRX5hFdKfN

Reserve Bank keeps cash rate at 2.25% for April

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The majority of respondents in Finder's monthly rate prediction survey expect that the Reserve Bank will not change the official cash rate this month.
The cash rate currently sits at 2.25% after a 25 basis point cut in February.
Of the 42 experts surveyed by the mortgage comparison website, just 10 believe that the Reserve Bank will cut the cash rate today. Those predicting a cut include Bill Evans of Westpac and ANZ chief economist Warren Hogan, who said: "The Reserve Bank has signalled they're likely to ease policy further. We still haven't seen any evidence of a sustained pick-up in non-mining business investment and the Australian dollar has been a bit high in previous weeks."
ANZ expects the official cash rate to drop to 2.0%. In today's Morning Focus release, however, the bank's researchers did note that the Reserve Bank's decision "looks to be a close one", observing the results of a recent Bloomberg survey, where 13 of 30 economists predicted a rate cut.
"With iron ore prices continuing to fall and the non-mining economic recovery continuing to disappoint, the decision seems at face-value to be simple one. However, the booming Sydney housing market has policymakers nervous and there is concern that a rate cut won't spur activity as much as is needed at this late stage in the easing cycle," reads ANZ's note.
However, Commonwealth Bank's Michael Blyth and NAB's Alan Oster believe that rates will remain unchanged today.
Most of the survey respondents predict the Reserve Bank will drop the cash rate by June.
Scott Haslem of USB said: "While you couldn't rule out an April cut, we believe the Reserve Bank will wait to see late-April's Q1 Consumer Price Index print, which should be low enough for them."
 
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Most experts expect Reserve Bank will hold rates for April: Finder

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The Wide-Bay Burnett region of Queensland was named one of the Australian property markets that most favoured buyers over sellers by the Commonwealth Bank and CoreLogic RP Data in their latest Home Buyer's Index.
The area came just behind Tasmania's Mersey-Lyell in the list of the top five buyers' markets, which is based on the number of properties listed on the market compared to the number of loans the Commonwealth Bank has signed in the same period.
The Wide-Bay Burnett region, which includes the Fraser Coast region, Gympie, South Burnett, North Burnett and Bundaberg, has experienced a somewhat depressed economy in recent years, affecting property prices. Gross Regional Product (GRP) <a href="https://lawrenceconsulting.com.au/localeconomy/widebayburnett/wbb" target="_blank">contracted across all of Wide Bay-Burnett</a> between 2012-13 and 2013-14, by 7.4%. The downturn was felt most severely in North Burnett, where GRP Dropped by 8.2% over the year. GRP per capita across Wide Bay-Burnett was $42,123 for 2013-14, well below the Queensland-wide GRP per capita of $63,361 and the national Gross Domestic Product per capita of $67,415.
The income gap between Wide Bay-Burnett residents and the rest of Queensland, and Australia, increased in the last financial year, as shown below.
<img src="/images/2015/04/02/Picture%2042.png" alt="">
<a href="https://lawrenceconsulting.com.au/localeconomy/widebayburnett/wbb" target="_blank">Source: Lawrence Consulting</a>
Similarly, the region's unemployment rate is higher than the state's, at 8.8% compared to 6.2% for the 2014 September quarter.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-bundaberg+east-119017263" target="_blank">7 Killara Court in Bundaberg East</a> sold earlier this month for $295,000, the same price the vendors paid in October 2009. When the house traded before that, buyers paid $257,500 for the house in 2006, reflecting 14% price growth over nine years.
The home's performance on the market over the last nine years was significantly slower than it had been in the past. In 2002, buyers paid $126,000 for the home, selling it four years later in 2006 for $121,000 (96%) more.
The house was used as an investment property from 2008, with an advertised rent in January 2013 of $320 per week. Assuming its rent hasn't increased since that date, it sold this year at a 5.6% yield.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-mundubbera-105050435" target="_blank">21 Wilson Avenue, Munduberra</a>, which is in the North Burnett region, is currently available to purchase with a price guide of $240,000. The investment property currently returns $160 per week. If it sells at its advertised price, the three bedroom house will yield 3.4%.
The vendors have been trying to shift the house for quite some time - according to CoreLogic RP Data's records, it's been on the market since July 2008. They paid $8,250 for the property in 1990.
In North Burnett's East Tinana, <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-tinana-113721347" target="_blank">154 Iindah Road</a> is for sale. The four bedroom house on 2.4 hectares is listed for $389,000. It is worth noting that many of the properties listed in the Wide-Bay Burnett region are land sites, not existing dwellings.
Photo of Bundaberg: Public domain.
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Queensland's Wide Bay-Burnett region one of Australia's top buyers' markets

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Research firm SQM Research has released its top 10 most affordable properties in Brisbane. All are located within 30 kilometres of the Brisbane CBD, and all cost less than $300,000.

Predictably, almost all on the list are units, and all have been discounted. The first on their list, <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-unit-qld-zillmere-118756355" target="_blank">1/368 Zillmere Road</a> in the northern suburb of Zillmere, has had its price cut by 32%, from $329,000 to $225,000.

<a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/136-granard-road-archerfield/Property-Details-buy-residential-8284800" target="_blank">136 Granard Road in Archerfield</a> (pictured above) has been on the market for the longest time, and was listed 2,022 days ago – that's five years ago. In that time, the vendors have discounted its asking price by 18%, from $330,000 to $269,000.

The three bedroom house on a 607 square metre plot is currently rented at $325 per week. If the home sells at $269,000, it will reflect a 6.3% yield. The vendors paid $267,500 for the house in 2007.

SQM Research's top 10 most affordable Brisbane properties:

<ul>
<li>1/368 Zillmere Road, Zillmere</li>
</ul>
Initial asking price: $329,000 
Now asking: $225,000 
Reduction: 32% 
Days on market: 85

<ul>
<li>1-12 McBain, Kallangur</li>
</ul>
Initial asking price: $280,000 
Now asking: $239,990 
Reduction: 14% 
Days on market: 273

<ul>
<li>1/69 Ormadale Road, Yeronga</li>
</ul>
Initial asking price: $299,000 
Now asking: $250,000 
Reduction: 16% 
Days on market: 469

<ul>
<li>136 Granard Road, Archerfield</li>
	<li>Initial asking price: $330,000</li>
</ul>
Now asking: $269,000 
Reduction: 18% 
Days on market: 2,022

<ul>
<li>43/32 Blyth Road, Murrumba Downs</li>
</ul>
Initial asking price: $347,000 
Now asking: $269,000 
Reduction: 22% 
Days on market: 155

<ul>
<li>12 Woods Court, Bellbird Park</li>
</ul>
Initial asking price: $329,000 
Now asking: $276,500 
Reduction: 16% 
Days on market: 85

<ul>
<li>Lot 24/113 Castle Hill Drive, Murrumba Downs</li>
</ul>
Initial asking price: $319,000 
Now asking: $279,000 
Reduction: 13% 
Days on market: 267

<ul>
<li>2/154 Goodfellows Road, Murrumba Downs</li>
</ul>
Initial asking price: $315,000 
Now asking: $297,995 
Reduction: 11% 
Days on market: 351

<ul>
<li>29/18 Holmes Street, Toowong</li>
</ul>
Initial asking price: $320,000 
Now asking: $280,000 
Reduction: 13% 
Days on market: 182

<ul>
<li>10905 8 Harbour Road, Hamilton</li>
</ul>
Initial asking price: $365,000 
Now asking: $290,000 
Reduction: 21% 
Days on market: 623

<h2>QLD properties selling now:</h2>

[smartcode_project:default project_id=26730]

[smartcode_project:default project_id=90553]

[smartcode_project:default project_id=22057]
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10 Brisbane properties under $300,000: SQM Research

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The four properties in The Block Triple Threat will be going under the hammer on Tuesday 28 April, with each team listing their renovations.
The open for inspection has been set for the weekend of 11 April, and as <a href="/expert-insights/the-block-on-show-at-this-weekends-open-for-inspection">in previous seasons</a> fans and spectators will be able to tour through the South Yarra townhouses.
<a href="/expert-insights/building/david-wood-of-hockingstuart-to-auction-charlotte-and-joshs-the-block-triple-threat-apartment">Josh and Charlotte</a> have chosen hockingstuart's Mark Konishi and Georgia Whitford to market their unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-townhouse-vic-south+yarra-119439203" target="_blank">1/27 Darling Street</a> (pictured below). David Wood of Hockingstuart Albert Park will auction their renovation. Wood has appeared on previous seasons, notably securing <a href="/expert-insights/buying/steve-and-chantelles-auctioneer-david-wood-on-the-blocks-record-breaking-win">the winning result for Steve and Chantelle</a> in The Block Fans v Faves.
<img src="/images/2015/04/02/south%20yarra%20ap%20one.jpg" width="800" height="600">
<a href="https://www.domain.com.au/for-sale/27-darling-street-south-yarra-vic-3141-2011881553" target="_blank">Apartment Two</a> (pictured below), renovated by Tim and Anastasia, has been listed with Biggin &amp; Scott agent Russell Cambridge. Last season, Cambridge worked with Deanne and Darren for the campaign of their Glasshouse apartment.
<img src="/images/2015/04/02/south%20yarra%20ap%20two.jpg" alt="">
Ayden and Jess, who have renovated <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-townhouse-vic-south+yarra-119448343" target="_blank">3/27 Darling Street</a> (pictured below), are going with Joel Ser and Adam Joske of Gary Peer &amp; Associates.
<img src="/images/2015/04/02/south%20yarra%20ap%20three.jpg" alt="">
The unit of returning renovators Deanne and Darren at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-townhouse-vic-south+yarra-119444079" target="_blank">4/27 Darling Street</a> (pictured below) <a href="/expert-insights/building/dea-and-darren-decide-on-damien-cooley-for-the-block-triple-threat">will be auctioned by Damien Cooley</a>, while their apartment is marketed by Jellis Craig's Andrew McCann. McCann and Cooley teamed up last season to secure a win for brothers Simon and Shannon.
<img src="/images/2015/04/02/south%20yarra%20ap%20four.jpg" alt="">
Deanne and Darren and Ayden and Jess's listings are the only ones so far that make a mention of their reality television heritage.
The three storey townhouses each have three bedrooms and two bathrooms, with two parking spaces.
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The Block Triple Threat units listed and auction date revealed

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NAME: Shaun Hendy<img src="/images/2015/04/01/Shaun-Hendy.jpg" alt="" style="float: right;">
POSITION: Director - valuation, rural &amp; agribusiness
COMPANY: Colliers International
OFFICE LOCATION: Toowoomba/Brisbane
<ul>
<li>How long have you been in the industry?  </li>
</ul>
I have been in the valuation industry for over 25 years starting as an assistant valuer in Toowoomba with Stanton Hillier Parker.  I cover an area from the Northern Territory to the Riverina in NSW specialising in broad hectare irrigated and dry land cropping and grazing properties.  I grew up with my family breeding stud cattle in Central Queensland and this love of the bush directed my career path.
<ul>
<li>What’s happening in the area you specialise in?</li>
</ul>
I specialise in agribusiness and presently we are seeing a lot of interest in Australia as a place to invest in agribusiness and we consider that this is likely to increase over the next few years as a result of recent Free Trade Agreements and the growing demand for soft commodities.
<ul>
<li>Describe the most interesting commercial property you have worked on.</li>
</ul>
I do not get involved with commercial property in CBD areas, however the most interesting property I have valued would be Cubbie Station at Dirranbandi.  It is the largest irrigation property in Australia and during its history received a lot of bad press due to water reform process during the 1990s and 2000s.  I believe a lot of the opinion was misguided with a lack of understanding of how the property operated and the rules of operation that dictate how it accesses water.  It has over 20,000 hectares of developed irrigation land, over 440,000 megalitres of on farm storage and a total of approximately 80,000 hectares of land.  It is developed to a very high standard and the size, efficiency and scale of the development can only be appreciated by being on site and seeing it for oneself.  There are other properties that in terms of quality are as good or better, however it size is what makes it the most interesting property I have been involved with.
<ul>
<li>What are the ingredients to being successful in your job?  </li>
</ul>
Being focused on understanding client needs/requirements.  Being able to communicate and speak to them about the process of valuation as it affects them.  Being honest, accessible and willing to answer the hard questions.  Looking for opportunities to add value to our service.  I have found that this has helped me build a loyal client base even when the client and I do not always see eye to eye.
<ul>
<li>What aspects of your role do you enjoy the most? </li>
</ul>
 Doing property inspections and meeting people in their own environment.  Some of the places I have seen are icons of the Australian bush that tourists would pay to go and see while I get paid to inspect them.  I also enjoy the riding in helicopters to do many of the larger inspections as some of the larger properties are larger than some European countries.
<ul>
<li>Where would you invest a spare $750,000?  </li>
</ul>
Buying and trading young cattle.
<ul>
<li>Which football team do you support?</li>
</ul>
Queensland Reds
<ul>
<li>What’s your favourite app or techno gadget?</li>
</ul>
Solitaire and maps
<ul>
<li>How do you use social media?  </li>
</ul>
Facebook to stalk my children (two girls 17 and 14 years) and Linkedin to connect with professionals with similar interests.
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In profile: Colliers International's director - valuation, rural & agribusiness, Shaun Hendry

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Sydney's home prices increased by 3% over March, according to the latest CoreLogic RP Data Home Value Index.
Meanwhile, price growth was sluggish in the other capital cities, with all others except Canberra recording price growth under 1% for the month. Brisbane saw a slight decline in prices, with an 0.3% decline over March.
<img src="/images/2015/04/01/core-april-1-one.jpg" alt="">
Source: CoreLogic RP Data
The result makes Sydney yet again the best performing capital city for the quarter, with overall price growth of 5.8% over the three months to March. Melbourne recorded the next strongest quarterly price growth, with 3.5%.
Sydney's bullish market performance is in contrast to Perth's result. In the Western Australian capital, prices declined by 2.7% over the quarter, the largest price drop of any capital city for the period. Adelaide and Brisbane prices also decreased over the three months, by 0.9% and 0.5% respectively.
<img src="/images/2015/04/01/core-april-1-two.jpg" alt="" style="font-size: 12.1599998474121px; line-height: 15.8079996109009px;">
Source: CoreLogic RP Data
Sydney's price growth of 13.9% for the year to march was responsible for dragging up CoreLogic RP Data's annual combined capital growth figure to 7.4%, with Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Canberra the only other capital cities to record positive price movements. CoreLogic RP Data's head of research Tim Lawless said the majority of property price growth recorded since June 2012 has been from Sydney.
"Over the current growth phase, Sydney dwelling values have increased by 38.8% with Melbourne second strongest at 23.6%," said Lawless.
"On the other hand, total dwelling value growth over the current cycle has been less than 10% in Adelaide, Hobart and Canberra."
He noted the combined capital city home value increase of 3% over the March 2015 quarter was lower than the 3.5% growth recorded in the same period last year.
<img src="/images/2015/04/01/core-april-1-three.jpg" alt="">
Source: CoreLogic RP Data
CoreLogic RP Data described Sydney's growth trend as "disengaged" from Australia's other capital city markets, noting that Sydney auction clearance rates have exceeded 80% since the Reserve Bank cut interest rates in February this year.
"Since the previous rate cut we have seen auction clearance rates surge higher and activity across CoreLogic mortgage platforms has moved to new record levels," said Lawless.
He attributed Sydney's strong market performance to investment demand. However, he also cautioned Sydney investors.
"With the growth curve in Sydney now well advanced and rental yields approaching historically low levels, prospective investors may be wise to use some caution when considering their investment options," he said.
"When the Sydney housing market starts to lose momentum, there is some risk that recent investors could be left holding a very expensive but low yielding asset with a lower than expected rate of capital gain over the coming years.
"From there it will be interesting to see if they bide their time in the housing market or exit to other asset classes with a stronger return profile."
The median price of a Sydney home now sits at $690,000, with a median priced house costing $781,000. Sydney's median unit price is $600,000.
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The nation's property markets divided as Perth goes backwards and Sydney gets a "second wind": CoreLogic RP Data

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Work has begun on the $970 million Jewel development by China's Dalian Wanda Group and Ridong Group.
Queensland Deputy Premier and Minister for Infrastructure Jackie Trad launched construction on the three-tower mixed use development at Broadbeach at a ceremony yesterday.
The three-tower joint venture will comprise 500 apartments, 171 hotel rooms and retailers.
Dalian Wanda group chairman Wang Jianlin is reportedly China's richest man. His estimated $290 million capital injection into Jewel is part of his <a href="/expert-insights/buying/after-cup-of-tea-for-pm-abbott-wang-jianlin-commits-to-jewel-surfers-paradise-development">$1.7 billion investment commitment</a> to the Australian real estate sector. Dalian Wanda Group's involvement in the development began in August 2014.
Ridong bought the 1.13 hectare site on Old Burleigh Road in 2010 for $81.8 million. Four buildings – two houses, a low-rise apartment block and a 14-level building of holiday units – have been cleared to make way for the development.
The development will have 130 metres of absolute beach frontage. Andrew Bampton, director of sales and marketing Wanda Ridong (Gold Coast) said the site was "one of the most lucrative hot spots for capital growth in the coming years".
Figures from CoreLogic RP Data <a href="/news">show a slight recovery in median prices</a> for Broadbeach units over the past year, following a steep price descent over 2013 from a peak of $525,000 to a trough of $412,250 in early 2014. "Jewel will be the most significant development on the Gold Coast since the GFC, and the first true beach-front residential resort in more than 30 years. This investment is a $1billion vote of confidence in the City of the Gold Coast and in Queensland," said Brampton.
State Minister for Tourism Kate Jones and Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate also attended yesterday's turning the sod ceremony.
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Construction begins at Gold Coast's Wanda Ridong Jewel

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The house of owner-occupier Paul McMillan has sold for $6.6 million.
The seven bedroom, seven bathroom house at 117 Commodore Drive in Paradise Waters was listed with a $7 million price guide.
Set on a 939 square metre plot, the house was designed by the Dubai-based hotel architect after he and his wife Aliya purchased the site for $960,000 in 1999.
The <a href="https://www.goldcoastbulletin.com.au/news/multimillion-dollar-home-of-architect-hits-the-market-in-surfers-paradise/story-fnj94j0t-1226820807683" target="_blank">Gold Coast Bulletin</a> reported that the couple bought the plot two weeks after spotting it on a family holiday.
The four-storey house has a five-car basement garage with a separate workshop, a gymnasium and a 500-bottle wine cellar. It also includes an 18 metre lap pool, limestone-floored living areas, and gas fireplaces. On the top floor, there is a lounge and deck, a steam room, a massage room and an office.
McMillan, based in Dubai, has worked on projects for international hotel developer Starwood, including the $600 million St Regis Saadiyat Island Resort in Abu Dhabi.
117 Commodore Drive's $6.6 million price makes it the second most expensive home to sell this week, according to CoreLogic RP Data.
Topping this week's sales was the <a href="/news/does-taynishs-sale-signal-the-wakening-of-the-bellevue-hill-giant">$8.15 million Taynish</a>, at 18 Victoria Road in Bellevue Hill.
CoreLogic RP Data's top 10 most expensive sales for the week ending 29 March:
<ol>
<li>
18 Victoria Road, Bellevue Hill, NSW 6 bed, 4 bath, 5 car house $8,150,000 Richardson &amp; Wrench Double Bay 
</li>
<li>
117 Commodore Drive, Surfers Paradise, Qld 7 bed, 7 bath, 5 car house $6,600,000 McGrath Estate Agents 
</li>
<li>
4 Appian Way, Burwood, NSW 6 bed, 4 bath, 4 car house $4,725,000 Richardson &amp; Wrench Strathfield 
</li>
<li>
1 Manor Street, Brighton, Vic 4 bed, 2 bath, 10 car house $4,725,000 Nick Johnstone Real Estate 
</li>
<li>
34 Medusa Street, Mosman, NSW 5 bed, 5 bath, 2 car house $4,150,000 Century 21 Mosman 
</li>
<li>
52 Baringa Road, Northbridge, NSW 5 bed, 3 bath, 2 car house $3,770,000 McGrath Estate Agents 
</li>
<li>
191 Gore Street, Fitzroy, Vic 3 bed, 2 bath, 1 car house $3,580,000 Nelson Alexander Fitzroy 
</li>
<li>
41 Tower Road, Balwyn North, Vic 5 bed, 4 bath, 2 car house $3,450,000 Marshall White Hawthorn 
</li>
<li>
6 Woolwich Road, Hunters Hill, NSW 5 bed, 3 bath, 2 car house $3,450,000 McGrath Estate Agents 
</li>
<li>
 117 Commodore Drive in Paradise Waters 4 bed, 2 bath, 2 car house $3,450,000 Jellis Craig Hawthorn</li>
</ol>
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Architect Paul McMillan's Surfers Paradise house sells for $6.6 million

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First home buyers are increasingly resorting to personal debt to fund their home deposits, according to the 10th edition of the Genworth's Streets Ahead Homebuyer Confidence Index.
Of those surveyed by Genworth, 46% of first home buyers who took out their loan in 2009 used sources other than savings for their deposit. In 2014, that figure had risen to 57%.
Genworth research shows that average deposit sizes for first home buyers has remained stable from 2009 to 2014, but the proportion of first home buyers who took more than three years to save their deposit decreased, from 36% in 2009 to 27% in 2014.
While a greater proportion of first home buyers are now relying on inheritances to fund their first home deposit than they did, more first home buyers are also relying on personal loans or credit card debt, as shown in the chart below.
Click to open in new window
<a href="/images/2015/03/27/fhb-mar-27-one.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2015/03/27/fhb-mar-27-one.jpg" alt=""></a>
In the five years to 2014, the proportion of first home buyers who used personal loans for their deposit increased from 4% to 15%, while the use of credit cards for deposits rose from 1% to 10%.
"This combination of reduced time spent acquiring deposits and an increased proportion of non-savings sources suggests that house price appreciation over the past few years may have driven an increasing number of FHBs to abandon their goal of saving a deposit and look to alternative sources of funding," the report reads.
Genworth also noted that first home buyers are generally more willing to pay lenders mortgage insurance (LMI) and take on greater loan to value ratios for their first purchase.
Only quarter of today's first home buyers surveyed by Genworth have deposits of more than 20%, while 33% of current mortgagors had a 20% or higher deposit when they bought their first home.
"This is indicative of a trend towards accumulating lower deposit sizes as property prices rise," reads the report. As such, Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI) plays an important role for FHBs struggling to save a 20% deposit. Of respondents surveyed in March 2015, 61% of FHBs used LMI compared to 40% of Mortgagors."
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First home buyers turning to personal debt to fund deposits: Genworth

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.

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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."

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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."

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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.

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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.

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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]

Joel Robinson

From ONE to ERA: Why buyers are choosing GWH again in Newcastle West

Virgate Property Group is preparing to commence construction of Verdé, its new apartment development in Melbourne's Arts Precinct at Southbank, following a strong run of sales that has seen more than half of the project's 173 apartments secured.

Verdé has attracted a broad mix of first home buyers, owner-occupiers upgrading from nearby inner-city suburbs and investors, with younger owner-occupier couples aged between 28 and 45 accounting for the strongest enquiry. Many are already living in Southbank, South Melbourne, Albert Park, Port Melbourne, South Yarra and the CBD.

"Verdé is located in one of the most desirable pockets of southern Melbourne," Blair Property Group Director Darren Blair, who is managing sales at Verdé, said.

"It's within walking distance of the Arts Centre, Royal Botanic Gardens, Albert Park Lake, and Southbank's restaurants and retail. It's a great lifestyle location with strong amenity and liveability, which made it a very attractive choice for the project."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=372549]

Virgate was already familiar with the precinct, having previously delivered the successful Domain House development in neighbouring South Melbourne. That experience gave the developer confidence to acquire the Coventry Street site and continue expanding its presence in Melbourne's inner south.

"We had been keeping an eye on the site and the broader precinct for a few months before deciding to move forward with the acquisition," Virgate said.

The project was ultimately secured in 2020 following feasibility studies, planning assessments and due diligence, with the brief centred on delivering "a high-quality, considered design that feels both refined and fit for purpose."

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Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bruce-henderson-architects">Bruce Henderson Architects</a>, Verdé comprises 173 one, two and three-bedroom apartments priced from $599,000. The architecture is distinguished by a faceted glass façade that responds to both the site's outlook and Melbourne's changing light conditions.

According to Bruce Henderson Architects, the coloured glazing gives the building a distinctive identity while also providing privacy and solar shading, with residences oriented to capture views across the bay, city skyline and surrounding parklands.

Inside, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/designoffice">DesignOffice</a> has created interiors focused on natural light, efficient planning and enduring materials. Apartments feature engineered oak flooring, natural stone benchtops, floor-to-ceiling glazing and SMEG appliances, while a restrained material palette aims to complement the expansive outlooks rather than compete with them.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=372550]

Resident amenity has also been designed around everyday functionality rather than occasional use. Facilities include a concierge-serviced lobby, residents' lounge with fireplace, library and co-working space, gym, terrace garden with barbecue facilities, ground-floor café, and package delivery management.

The project's location continues to be one of its strongest drawcards. Positioned on Coventry Street, Verdé sits within walking distance of the National Gallery of Victoria, Arts Centre Melbourne, Royal Botanic Gardens and Albert Park Lake, while Southbank's dining precinct, Sturt Street trams and the new ANZAC Station are all nearby. The surrounding education catchment also includes Melbourne Grammar, Melbourne Girls Grammar, Mac.Robertson Girls' High School and several major university campuses.

The sales team says buyers have responded particularly well to the combination of location, design quality and long-term liveability.

"They're responding really positively to the quality of the design, premium resident amenities and the uninterrupted views. Many also appreciate the location and how connected it is to everything they need."

The ability to secure stamp duty savings before completion has also been a key factor for purchasers, alongside the opportunity to personalise finishes ahead of settlement.

With construction set to commence soon and more than half the apartments already sold, Verdé enters its next phase as one of the Arts Precinct's more established apartment developments, offering remaining buyers an opportunity to secure a residence before construction advances further. Expected completion is scheduled for late 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=4661]

Virgate's Verdé Southbank moves toward construction as sales fly past halfway stage

Downsizer-focused apartment development Kooyongkoot in Hawthorn has been recognised at the 2026 Better Future Melbourne Design Awards, taking home Gold and Silver awards in two categories.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kooyongkoot-hawthorn-1-kooyongkoot-road-hawthorn-vic-3122">Kooyongkoot</a>, currently being delivered by developer PQD and designed by Cera Stribley, received Gold in the Interior Design – Proposed category and Silver in the Architecture – Proposed category.

The dual recognition reflects the design approach behind the boutique development on prestigious Kooyongkoot Road, where the focus has been on creating homes for downsizers seeking the space, quality and functionality of a detached house within a low-rise apartment building.

Rather than maximising apartment numbers, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/pqd">PQD</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a> limited the development to just 18 residences, allowing for larger floorplans, greater privacy, generous landscaping and expansive communal spaces.&nbsp;The majority of the apartments also benefit from corner aspects, allowing for dual sources of natural light.

Now around 70 per cent complete and on track for completion in November 2026, Kooyongkoot will comprise a mix of garden residences, ter​race apartments, sub-penthouses, and is crowned by two half-floor penthouses with direct lift access and private rooftop terraces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355297]

The Silver Award for Architecture recognised the way the building responds to its prominent corner position at the ent​rance to Hawthorn's Scotch Hill precinct, one of Melbourne's most established residential neighbourhoods.

Rather than competing with the grand homes that line Kooyongkoot Road, the architectural approach focused on restraint and longevity, using curved brickwork, generous landscaping and carefully considered proportions to integrate with the existing streetscape.

"The form feels fluid and timeless, as though shaped by the landscape itself – architecture that belongs, rather than competes," said Chris Stribley, Co-Founder and Managing Principal of Cera Stribley.

The judging submission also highlighted practical innovations throughout the building, including lift cores servicing only nine homes each, a central landscaped lightcourt designed to bring daylight and ventilation into the building, and fully enclosed private storage rooms with lighting, power and shelving to better accommodate residents transitioning from larger family homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355293]

The Gold Award for Interior Design recognised the project's focus on long-term liveability rather than display-home aesthetics.

According to the awards submission, the interiors were designed from the inside out, prioritising how homes would function over decades of daily use through generous proportions, practical storage, durable natural materials and flexible layouts.

The specification includes natural stone throughout, upgraded acoustic glazing, V-ZUG appliances and fully enclosed storage rooms, alongside an amenity offering focused on wellness, entertainment and everyday convenience.&nbsp;

Residents will have access to a gym and yoga studio, a wellness centre featuring traditional and infrared saunas, a cold therapy shower and treatment room, as well as a residents' lounge and golf simulator/cinema room for entertainment.&nbsp;Kooyongkoot has also considered the everyday convenience of its residents by offering a private carwash and pet wash facilities on site as well as dedicated parcel lockers and oversized fully enclosed storage rooms.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355303]

The project's attention to detail has already resonated with buyers. Earlier this year, Kooyongkoot recorded one of Boroondara's highest apartment sales when an $8 million penthouse was purchased by a Melbourne CEO downsizing from a nearby family home.

"Every detail feels deliberate, from the overall design down to the smallest touches," the purchaser said.

"The level of quality and refinement is exceptional, but what really sold it was how liveable it felt... It felt like a place where everything had been considered, not just a luxury building."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355304]

Sustainability also formed a key part of both award submissions. Kooyongkoot is targeting a minimum 7.5-star NatHERS rating across all residences, supported by passive design principles, high-performance glazing, EV charging infrastructure, water reuse systems and a wellness model focused on lower-energy dry facilities rather than pools and large wet areas.

Located within walking distance of Scotch College, Methodist Ladies' College, Koo​yong Lawn Tennis Club, Aubur​n Village and Camberwell Junction, Kooyongkoot continues to target owner-occupiers looking to remain in Melbourne's inner east without compromising on space or quality. A limited selection of two, three and four-bedroom residences remains available, with prices starting from $1.9 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=102717]

Kooyongkoot wins Gold and Silver at Better Future Melbourne Design Awards

New apartment supply has become increasingly constrained across <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/parramatta-nsw-2150">Parramatta</a> in recent years, with fewer projects progressing through to completion as development conditions have become more challenging.

It makes <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/novm">NOVM</a>'s 2021-completed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/the-lennox-parramatta-12-phillip-street-parramatta-nsw-2150">The Lennox</a> one of the most recently completed residential towers on the Parramatta River, and among the newest apartment developments in Sydney's second CBD.

With the project largely completed before the sharp escalation in construction costs and inflation following the pandemic, The Lennox is now offering pricing that would be difficult to replicate in a comparable new development in Parramatta today, or across much of Western Sydney.

The majority of the 413 apartments at The Lennox sold before and shortly after completion. A limited release of the remaining apartments has recently been brought to market by capital partner <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Equitifund</a>, with entry-level pricing from $700,000 and two-bedroom apartments available from under $1 million.

Rising above the Parramatta River at 12 Phillip Street, The Lennox comprises one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments, appealing to first home buyers, young professionals, families, downsizers and interstate investors seeking a completed apartment in one of Australia's fastest-growing economic centres.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=372394]

Rather than positioning Parramatta as an alternative to Sydney's CBD, Equitifund believes the city has reached a point where it stands on its own merits.

"Parramatta is no longer simply an alternative to Sydney CBD, it's becoming a destination in its own right," Equitifund Executive Chairman Greg Huxley said.

"The Lennox captures that evolution with a level of quality and amenity that's difficult to match at its price point."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=953]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/marchese-partners">Marchese Partners</a>, the tower responds directly to its riverfront setting through expansive glazing and open-plan layouts that maximise views across the Parramatta River and city skyline. Interiors feature engineered timber flooring, stone benchtops, stainless steel appliances and floor-to-ceiling glazing, while generous balconies extend the living spaces outdoors.

Marchese Partners says the project was conceived to balance high-quality apartment living with practical, long-term functionality, pairing larger, efficient floorplans with amenities more commonly associated with five-star hotels.

That emphasis continues through the resident facilities, which include a 20-metre rooftop swimming pool, fully equipped gym and wellness spaces, full-time concierge, a residents' lounge, function room, private lifts, secure basement parking and rooftop communal areas overlooking the Parramatta River. Ground-floor boardwalk retail and dining further activate the riverfront and integrate the building into the surrounding public realm.

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Australian housing and finance group Equitifund has secured the remaining apartments, believing there are few completed apartment opportunities in Parramatta that offer the same combination of location, amenity and pricing.

Equitifund National Sales Director Ben Hamblett says buyers are increasingly recognising that premium apartment living no longer needs to come with Sydney CBD pricing.

"The Lennox is where aspirational living becomes attainable," Hamblett said.

"Wake to river and mountain views, step into Sydney's Second CBD, and arrive home to resort-calibre amenities, all without the harbour price tag."

Hamblett says owner-occupiers are also attracted by the convenience of having Westfield Parramatta, Church Street's dining precinct, Parramatta Park, Riverside Theatres, Western Sydney University and major transport connections all within walking distance.

"At The Lennox, lifestyle is not an afterthought, it is the foundation."

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The Lennox places residents within walking distance of Parramatta Square, Westfield Parramatta, Church Street Eat Street, Parramatta Station, the ferry wharf, Light Rail, the future Sydney Metro West, Parramatta Park and CommBank Stadium, reinforcing Parramatta's position as one of Australia's most connected metropolitan centres outside Sydney's CBD.

Equitifund says buyers visiting the display suite consistently comment on the quality of the finishes, generous floorplans, river and skyline views, and the walkability of the location. The project has attracted a broad mix of local professionals, upsizers, downsizers, buyers relocating from Sydney's inner suburbs and interstate investors seeking long-term growth opportunities.

That demand aligns with Parramatta's continued evolution as an economic powerhouse. Equitifund Research and Market Insights specialist John Bekiaris says sustained population growth, infrastructure investment and expanding employment opportunities continue to support long-term housing demand across the city.

"Parramatta has evolved from a satellite city into one of Australia's most important economic centres. Population growth, infrastructure investment and employment are all supporting sustained long-term housing demand."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=5743]

The apartment price gap drawing Sydney buyers west

A luxury beachfront apartment at Rainbow Bay has more than doubled in value since it sold off the plan six years ago, setting a new local apartment record in the process.

The three-bedroom apartment in the Flow development on Petrie Street, the first of four new projects locally by Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects, has sold for $7.4 million, after originally selling for $3.27 million when the project launched in 2020.

The seventh-floor apartment, comprising 187 sqm of internal living space and a 54 sqm balcony overlooking Froggies Beach and Snapper Rocks, was purchased by a local family.

The transaction was negotiated by Pezet Matheson director Kerry Pezet and equates to more than $30,000 per sqm.

Pezet said the sale reflected the limited opportunities to buy into the boutique beachfront development.

"The sale highlights the rarity of opportunities within the boutique beachfront development, where residences seldom become available," Pezet said.

"Flow is one of the Gold Coast's most tightly held buildings. Buyers from our database move quickly when residences become available, and achieving an off-market sale at $7.4 million demonstrates the depth of demand for property of this calibre."

<img alt="Flow" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c585b206-2130-4eee-a50c-3f27c51a7c70" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-06%20at%208.33.25%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=m3pHRDV62Y3fvN.XQuQHq.52ilTWpRLf" />

Flow was the first of four luxury apartment developments delivered by Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects at Rainbow Bay and was completed in 2023.

Positioned on the beachfront overlooking Snapper Rocks, the residence includes three bedrooms, three bathrooms, a powder room and views stretching north along the coastline towards Surfers Paradise.

Pezet Matheson Residential principal Mitchell Lambert said buyers continued to prioritise quality beachfront apartments in tightly held locations.

"Flow Residences offers a rare combination of elevated beachfront positioning, architectural excellence, comprehensive resident amenity and premium finishes, which is exactly what discerning purchasers are seeking," Lambert said.

"The transaction further reinforces Rainbow Bay's reputation as one of Australia's premier coastal lifestyle destinations, where limited supply and growing demand continue to support strong market performance."

Pezet Matheson originally marketed and sold out Flow off the plan, making the latest transaction a return to one of the project's original buyers.

Paul Gedoun is selling his third project, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/radia-rainbow-bay-271-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Radia Rainbow Bay</a>, after recently completing, and selling out, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/esprit-217-227-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Esprit</a>. He has plans for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-s-s-projects-proposes-88-apartment-wellness-tower-at-coolangattas-boundary-street">fourth building</a>, 88 apartments on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/209-213-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Boundary Street</a>.

Jessie Richardson

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