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John McGrath invested $40,000 in a childcare centre for children living with disabilities or special needs on Channel 10's Shark Tank this week.
The McGrath estate agents founder secured a 12.5% stake of Hummingbirds, as did tech entrepreneur Steve Baxter when the pair decided to split the offered 25% stake.
The two "Sharks" chose to invest after hearing the story of Rebecca Glover and Leah James, businesswomen and mothers of children with disabilities.
Their business, Hummingbirds, offers care, early intervention and support for young children of all abilities, including those with motor development delays. They founded the business after finding traditional childcare facilities unsuitable for their own children, who live with disabilities.
Currently, they offer just four places for children, but said on the show there was a waiting list of 35. Hummingbirds' care is offered at $120 per day, with government assistance and Medicare rebates reducing the out of pocket cost to about $35 per day.
Glover and James are hoping to expand the business to accommodate 21 children, with two carers carers available at all times for each room of seven children.
As they presented their business model on Shark Tank, the potential investors queried the businesswomen about their plans to upscale the business, wondering whether they were willing to take on the extra commitment of expanding Hummingbirds. The entrepreneurs assured the panel that they one day hoped to become a national business.
James said to the panel: "We're driven with heart and passion but we're smart women. We're very capable of this. But we have so many desperate, desperate mothers and fathers out there."
Their pitch was enough to convince Baxter, founder of SE Net, who has no experience in childcare. He later wrote in BRW: 
"If you told me a year ago that I would be investing in the childcare industry, I'd have laughed you out the door. However, when Leah James and Rebecca Glover entered the Shark Tank, they came not just with a moving personal story about what they've done to ensure a better future for their children, and other children effected by disabilities. They came with a sharp, well-thought and viable business proposition ... As I said in Shark Tank, Hummingbirds was a deal too important not to be done."
McGrath, who was visibly moved by the pair's story, said he had a friend who worked in the childcare industry.
McGrath's $40,000 investment isn't his first on the show – he has also committed money to Salsa Rudo Hot Sauces, paying $80,000 for a 45% stake in the business. And while not investing in teenager Daniel Baise's interactive computer screen GTouch, he did, with Baxter, help support the teenager's trip to a trade show in Las Vegas.
McGrath famously did very poorly in his HSC results before moving into the real estate business as a letting agent. At 20, he moved to real estate sales and later founded his own agency. McGrath Estate Agents now has 62 offices along Australia's east coast and sold over $12 billion in residential property in the last year.
McGrath has also been a director on the board of REA Group since 2001.
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jrichardson-uRX5hFdKfN

John McGrath puts down $40,000 for childcare centre on Shark Tank

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A house in the Trillium Estate will be auctioned off for this year's Royal Children's Hospital Good Friday Appeal.
The Sahara Belle Q1 house by Henley Properties will be sold with all proceeds going <a href="https://www.gfacharityhouse.com.au/#charity-auction" target="_blank">towards the appeal</a>.
No reserve will be set at the auction of the four bedroom, three bathroom house. The home, set on a 448 square metre plot in Villawood Property's <a href="https://trillium.villawoodproperties.com.au/" target="_blank">Trillium development at Mickleham</a>, in Melbourne's north.
The double storey house has five living areas and opens through timber stacking doors to an outdoor entertaining space with merbau decking.
The kitchen includes a walk-in butler's pantry and a 900mm cooktop, twin wall ovens and a built in coffee machine, as well as a dishwasher. It also includes Caesarstone benchtops, as do the bathrooms and en suite.
There is timber flooring throughout some living areas, with carpeted bedrooms.
The house also includes ducted refrigerated air-conditioning and 5 star zoned heating.
It will be auctioned on Good Friday, 3 April at 2pm at 16 Melody Way, Mickleham. The home is being marketed by Alex Kundevski and Troy Apostolopoulos of Oliver Hume. It will be open for inspection from 5pm til 6pm on Wednesday 25 April.
The auction event will include appearances from Channel 7 personalities and a sausage sizzle hosted by the CFA. A range of suppliers, including Austral Bricks, Hisense, Deckable Decking, All Green Nursery all donated their services or materials towards the home.
The <a href="https://www.henley.com.au/new-home-collections/clendonvale/sahara-series/belle-q1" target="_blank">Sahara Belle Q1</a> house usually costs $297,900 (not including land). The Trillium development is located 32 kilometres north of the Melbourne CBD, just north of Craigieburn. Last year, <a href="/news/henley-and-villawood-team-up-again-for-good-friday-appeal-children-s-charity-house-auction-offering">Henley and Villawood raised $717,000</a> for the Good Friday Appeal when they auctioned off a house in the Aspire community in Plumpton. 
This Easter marks the Good Friday Appeal's 85th year of contribution to the Royal Children's Hospital.
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Mickelham house and land package to be auctioned for 2015 Royal Children's Hospital Good Friday Appeal

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While Tasmania continues to favour buyers, Sydney and Melbourne offered even more favourable conditions for sellers in January 2015, according to the latest Commonwealth Bank/CoreLogic RP Data Home Buyer's Index.
The index is based on the number of properties listed to sale compared to the number of loans the Commonwealth Bank has signed in the same period.
According to the index, the top five best buyer's markets in Australia are:
<ol>
<li>Mersey-Lyell, TAS</li>
<li>Wide Bay-Burnett, QLD</li>
<li>South West, QLD</li>
<li>Mackay, QLD</li>
<li>West Moreton, QLD</li>
</ol>
Source: Commonwealth Bank/CoreLogic RP Data Home Buyer's Index
Tasmania's subdued market has consistently offered the most affordable options for buyers in recent years. The Mersey-Lyell statistical division, also known as the Cradle Coast region, includes Burnie, Devonport, Queenstown and Smithton.
In Burnie, where the median house price is currently $259,000 according to CoreLogic RP Data, this Queen Anne federation house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-tas-burnie-119166255" target="_blank">13 Charles Street</a> is currently on the market for $349,000.
<img src="/images/2015/03/23/burnie%201.jpg" alt="">
The four bedroom house set on 951 square metres is a two minute walk to the town centre and has two bathrooms. The vendors purchased the home for $290,000 in 2004.
Another Burnie home, at <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/20-garner-court-burnie/Property-Details-buy-residential-8528798" target="_blank">20 Garner Court</a>, is on the market for $159,000. The three bedroom solid brick home is currently tenanted. Advertised at $200 per week in 2012, at its current asking price (assuming the rent has stayed constant) the home would yield 6.5%.
<img src="/images/2015/03/23/20-Garner-Court-Burnie-TAS-7320-Real-Estate-photo-1-large-8528798.jpg" alt="">
The vendors paid $122,000 for the house in 2006.
According to CoreLogic RP Data, the median price of a house in Devonport was $240,000.
The vendors of <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/5-croft-avenue-devonport/Property-Details-buy-residential-8367416" target="_blank">5 Croft Avenue in Devonport</a> are currently accepting offers over $239,000 for this three bedroom house.
<img src="/images/2015/03/23/5-Croft-Avenue-Devonport-TAS-7310-Real-Estate-photo-1-large-8367416.jpg" alt="">
Having lived in the home since 1967, the owners are now selling the house, which sits on a 726 square metre plot.
<a href="https://harcourts.com.au/Property/591457/TBN23275/25-Bellavista-Road">25 Bellavista Road in Romaine</a> is listed at $440,000 after 550 days on the market. The three bedroom house on a 2.2 hectare plot was purchased for $114,000 in 1993 and built in 1977.
<img src="/images/2015/03/23/833-TBN23275-Burnie.jpg" alt="">
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-tas-burnie-116242339" target="_blank">16 View Road, Burnie</a>, (pictured below) has been on the market since December last year with an asking price of $348,000. The vendors attempted to sell the home in February of last year, with an asking price of $349,000, but pulled it off the market after two months. They paid $310,000 for the house in 2011.
<img src="/images/2015/03/23/16%20view%20road.jpg" alt="">
<a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/9-jorgensen-street-montello/Property-Details-buy-residential-5706719" target="_blank">9 Jorgensen Street</a> in Montello has been listed for more than two years – 747 days – at its current asking price of $195,000.
<img src="/images/2015/03/23/9-Jorgensen-Street-Montello-TAS-7320-Real-Estate-photo-1-large-5706719.jpg" alt="">
The vendors, who bought the house for $185,000 in 2008, also attempted to sell the house in 2011, at $195,000, but took it off the market after two months. In late 2013, it was advertised to rent at $195 per week, representing a yield of 5.2% at its current asking price.
In Upper Burnie, <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/2-11-crudwell-court-upper-burnie/Property-Details-buy-residential-4459355" target="_blank">2/11 Crudwell Court</a> has been listed for 925 days.
<img src="/images/2015/03/23/2-11-Crudwell-Court-Upper-Burnie-TAS-7320-Real-Estate-photo-4-large-4459355.jpg" alt="">
Vendors are asking for $189,000 for the investment unit. It is currently tenanted at $200 per week which represents a rental yield of 5.5% of its asking price. They  paid $175,000 for the home in 2007.
The other four of the top five buyer's markets are all located in Queensland, with the Commmonwealth Bank noting that the "best opportunities for buyers at a state level can be found in mining markets or coastal suburbs in Queensland, Western Australia the Northern Territory. The bank advises buyers seeking properties in capital cities to focus on Hobart, Brisbane and Darwin.
Dan Huggins, General Manager Home Loans Commonwealth Bank, says: "As demand in Sydney and Melbourne continues to be strong, the January 2015 Report highlights that these are the best markets for sellers."
The east coast cities took out the top two markets for favourable vendor conditions.
The top five best sellers' markets:
1. Sydney, NSW
2. Melbourne, VIC
3. Central Highlands, VIC
4. Adelaide, SA
5. Loddon, VIC
Source: Commonwealth Bank/CoreLogic RP Data Home Buyer's Index
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Tasmania's Mersey-Lyell named the nation's best buyers' market 

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Developers Victoria Investments &amp; Properties (VIP) and Mirvac adopted a ballot system to sell off the first stage of their housing estate in Melbourne's western growth corridor this weekend.
VIP and Mirvac enlisted television personality Livinia Nixon to host the event on Saturday, where registered buyers had the opportunity to select one of 70 plots at <a href="https://woodlea.com.au/" target="_blank">Woodlea</a>. Each registrant had placed a $1,000 deposit to enter the draw.
There were 185 buyers registered on the day for a chance to select a lot, which were priced from $183,500 for 500 square metres. All 70 lots have now sold.
Upon completion, the $2 billion masterplanned community located 29 kilometres from the Melbourne CBD will span 711 hectares. Saturday's event at Galli Windery was the first stage of the development's land releases.
In total, the community is expected to hold 7,100 residential lots when completed, with two pre-schools, two primary schools and a secondary school.
There are also plans for childcare facilities, a public library and a town centre. The development, located in the City of Melton, is expected to house 20,000 residents. The planned development is located between Melton to the west and Caroline Springs to the east, and will make use of the Rockbank railway station, the Western Highway, the Deerpark Bypass and the Melton Freeway.
VIP's chairman, K.T. Lim, acquired the Woodlea site 15 years ago. Prior to Woodlea, VIP has largely worked on industrial and office projects, including various commercial redevelopments in the Melbourne CBD.
Photo: Supplied.
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Woodlea sells out first stage of lots with ballot system

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With construction beginning on more than 50,000 dwelling units in the September 2014 quarter, up almost 20% on the previous year, is the construction sector all that's holding Australia back from a recession?
That may certainly be the case, according to comments from BIS Shrapnel economists at its Melbourne business forecasting conference earlier this week. And the Reserve Bank (RBA) board may just agree.
In its March meeting minutes, the RBA board noted further softening in the mining sector, with "steep declines" in mining investment contributing to below-trend gross domestic product (GDP) growth in the December quarter.
"The ABS survey of capital expenditure intentions implied further large falls in mining investment, as current projects were completed and few new projects were likely to proceed," the minutes read.
Meanwhile, income growth stayed low by historical measures and "the unemployment rate had continued its gradual upward trend".
Aside from low oil prices, the RBA board didn't see much that would continue to support consumer demand – except for residential investment.
"The current strength of housing construction and the increase in housing prices were expected to provide a measure of support for consumption," read March's minutes.
"A range of indicators, including residential building approvals, suggested further strong growth of dwelling investment in the near term."
The Reserve Bank's comments crediting construction investment with supporting the domestic economy are supported by the Australian Bureau of Statistics' (ABS) December quarter GDP figures. The ABS noted that: "In seasonally adjusted terms, the main contributors to GDP growth were Construction and Health care and social assistance each contributing 0.1 percentage points to the increase in GDP."
According to the ABS, $50.35 billion worth of construction work was done (on a seasonally adjusted basis) in the final quarter of 2014. While the figure is slightly down from its previous peak in the final quarter of 2012 (<a href="https://petewargent.blogspot.com.au/2015/02/construction-holds-up-well-thanks-to" target="_blank">as noted by Pete Wargent</a>), on a historical basis, the pace of Australia's construction industry in the past few years has been unprecedented.
<img src="/images/2015/03/23/bis-mar-23-one.jpg" alt="">
The value of total construction work done in the December 2014 quarter was also down on the figure recorded in the same period in 2013, by 4.8%. However, the decline can be attributed to engineering work and commercial construction, down 12.3% and 4.8% respectively over the year.
In fact, BIS Shrapnel managing director Robert Mellor noted on Tuesday that the state with the strongest relative commercial property construction sector currently was Tasmania, thanks to the Royal Hobart Hospital redevelopment.
Nationally, the value of residential work was up 12.7% from the December 2013 quarter.
<img src="/images/2015/03/23/bis-mar-23-two.jpg" alt="">
The Reserve Bank has also acknowledged the weak commercial property construction figures, noting in the March minutes that:
"Overall, survey measures of business conditions had remained around their average levels, while the trend in non-residential building approvals was at a low level and conditions in the commercial property market remained weak, with office vacancy rates in all capital cities at high levels."
But while residential investment has been able to buoy a flagging commercial property market, can it continue to uphold the entire economy as the mining sector slows further?
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Has the apartment construction boom saved Australia from recession?

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Precinx, a suite of urban design and planning software, has won the judges award of the Weapons of Mass Construction innovation competition at Green Cities 2015.
The project, a collaboration by Urban Growth NSW and Kinesis, models the performance of residential, commercial and mixed-use developments and makes assessments according to a range of criteria. It has been used by major government land authorities as well as private developers.
The software models the potential economic, commercial, environmental and social impact of developments, using local data sources and environmental metrics.
Users can compare the impact of their potential project against local standards. Users using the software can model the effect that additional parking, certain designs or building materials might have on the environment or on the behaviour of people who use the project in the future.
For example, <a href="https://www.kinesis.org/ccap-precinct/" target="_blank">Precinx</a> can be used to assess how improved access to public transport might affect household spending and car use, as well as greenhouse gas emissions. Urban Growth NSW and Kinesis hope the technology will drastically reduce the time needed to devote to modelling when planning urban renewal projects, and allow a more evidence-based approach to the process.
The software, also known as CCAP Precinct, will be featured in the Property Council of Australia's Property Week and the Green Building Council of Australia's (GBCA) Green Building Voice. It was picked as the competition favourite by judges Caitlin McGee, research principal, Institute of Sustainable Futures at the University of Technology, Sydney, Robin Mellon, chief operating officer of the GBCA and Geoff Dutaillis, group head of Sustainability, Lend Lease.
The people's choice award was given to Sydney University's Indoor Environmental Quality Lab for SAMBA, a monitoring system that allows building operators to assess a building's indoor environmental quality in real time.
The Green Cities 2015 conference has now finished, after three days of discussion, networking and education around sustainable property practices. The event was sponsored by the GBCA, Lend Lease and the Property Council of Australia.
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Urban planning software wins Green Cities 2015 innovation award

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Bathing Box 6 at Dendy Street Beach in the beachside suburb of Brighton will be auctioned on 28 March.
The beach box on the well known strip is located near the Brighton Lifesaving Club.
John Clarkson of hockingstuart is marketing <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/bathing-box-6-dendy-street-beach-brighton/Property-Details-buy-residential-8489600" target="_blank">the blue and yellow bathing box</a>, with $150,000 plus price expectations.
Last year, he sold a new Brighton bathing box, 57a, <a href="/news/vic/200-000-plus-hopes-for-bright-new-bathing-box-on-brighton-beach">for $215,000</a>.
The agent has lengthy history with the suburbs' bathing boxes, being the first to auction one in 1999, for $58,000.
The highest known price for a Brighton bathing box was set in 2011 at $260,000.
While bathing boxes may be Brighton icons, they are known to fetch much more elsewhere in Victoria. In Portsea, the record for a boatshed sale was set in 2011 at $585,000. At an <a href="/expert-insights/buying/no-record-as-portsea-boatshed-fetches-553-000-at-australia-day-2015-weekend-auction">Australia Day auction this year</a>, one sold for $553,000.
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Brighton Bathing Box listed with $150,000 guide

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A new apartment complex developed by Kangoala is set to be located opposite Albert Park Golf Course.
<a href="https://www.queensdomainmelbourne.com.au/" target="_blank">Queens Domain</a>, designed by DKO architects, will have 238 one, two and three bedroom apartments set over 20 levels. The apartments include two penthouses which will be constructed to accommodate custom interiors.
The Queens Domain complex will include 252 car parks, and a variety of communal areas including a rooftop garden, a pool, gymnasium, lounge and dining room.
<img src="/images/2015/03/19/melbourne-march-19-three.jpg" alt="">
Set back from Queens Road, the development has something of a front yard, with its entrance, inspired by Copacabana beach, will also include outdoor seating.
The building's design was in part inspired by its neighbours – DKO Architects have taken their cue from the Frederick Romberg-designed modernist Stanhill and Newborn Flats, said principal Koos de Keijzer.
"The neighbouring Stanhill and Newborn Flats are traditional and functionalist buildings with sweeping open balconies and fine glass detailing," explained de Keijzer.
"Queens Domain takes up the next thread in this story reinterpreting existing elements, while showcasing the design and construction techniques of our time."
<img src="/images/2015/03/19/melbourne-march-19-two.jpg" alt="">
The curvaceous forthcoming building was designed with the intension of creating an impression of upward motion.
Interiors will be designed by Nexus, featuring Snaidero Kitchens and Pianca Wardrobes, with cut limestone flooring. One bedroom apartments <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/property-new-developments/new-apartments-off-the-plan/vic/melbourne-3004-/?adid=2011769242" target="_blank">begin at $389,000</a> and two bedroom apartments <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/property-new-developments/new-apartments-off-the-plan/vic/melbourne-3004-/?adid=2011769396" target="_blank">begin at $617,000</a>.
The development is managed by PDA, who also delivered Prahran's Emporia Apartments.
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Queens Domain development to bring 238 new apartments to Melbourne

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It's not just investor activity, but changing benefits and an increased willingness to sit out of the property game that may be keeping first home buyers out of the market, according to one economist.
At BIS Shrapnel's Melbourne business forecasting conference earlier this week, managing director Robert Mellor commented that while investor activity did put upward pressure on prices, particularly in Sydney, there were other factors which are contributing to declining first home buyer numbers.
<img src="/images/2015/03/19/bis-mar-19-one.jpg" alt="">
He cited the change in some first home buyer benefits as a catalyst for a recent shift in purchasing activity among the demographic. In New South Wales, first home buyers formerly received full stamp duty concessions on established homes, which Mellor explained equated to about a $17,000 benefit on a $550,000 purchase. The scheme <a href="/expert-insights/investing/nsw-to-scrap-full-first-home-stamp-duty-concessions-for-existing-homes-from-2012">ended in January 2012</a>.
"So those sort of changes mean for many first home buyers, certainly in NSW, you suddenly had to find another $20,000," said Mellor.
"So I'd argue the point that one of the problems for potential first home buyers was the change in the rules where grants and stamp duty benefits were only provided for new dwellings, rather than established dwellings.
"They effectively had to find another $20,000 fairly quickly."
The change, Mellor said, may have encouraged potential first home buyers to "sit out of the market for another year" to save more – only to find home price growth eclipsing their increased savings.
"And you've suddenly found that instead of trying to buy a $550,000 property, you were paying $630,000," he explained.
"And that...increase in price obviously totally swamped the lost value of the grants."
First home buyers who were unable to anticipate recent price growth, particularly in Sydney, may have found themselves priced out of the market. After a period of suppressed house prices, Mellor explained, many inexperienced buyers would not have expected prices to escalate in Sydney as they have in recent years. He also acknowledged the Australian Bureau of Statistics' admission that its first home buyer figures may be inaccurate.
<img src="/images/2015/03/19/bis-mar-19-two.jpg" alt="">
"Everybody thought three years ago Sydney house prices were already very high. Well they weren't – they were undervalued in a long term context," said Mellor. However, he said that although Melbourne had not experienced the same price strength as Sydney, a similar situation had occurred when the Victorian government abolished its first home owner grant for established properties. Nevertheless, the declines in first home buyers numbers recorded in New South Wales and Queensland have been "much more severe".
The BIS Shrapnel head also attributed some of the lowered participation of first home buyers to a generational shift in attitudes towards home ownership, with uncertainty about future employment and lifestyles leading some to put off purchasing a home.
Mellor likened the relationship between investors and first home buyers to a "chicken and the egg kind of situation".
"Is it the investors forcing first home buyers out of the market? I would say they were out of the market simply because of the change in the conditions for them, and then once they sat on the sidelines, they couldn't purchase," said Mellor.
{mijopolls 100}
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Investors not necessarily pushing first home buyers out of the market: BIS Shrapnel's Robert Mellor

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Sydney's Institute Arcade at 332 Darling Street, Balmain has been listed for sale.
The tenanted building has nine shops, five suites and a penthouse. This year, it will gross $527,838, plus GST. Current tenants include Alegrias, a Spanish tapas restaurant, and a hairdresser.
Its penthouse has three bedrooms, with city and harbour views.
<a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-retail-nsw-balmain-501484715" target="_blank">The Institute Arcade</a> was designed by architect Edward J Bowen to house the Working's Men Institute, which was established in 1965. Construction began on the building in 1887, and it was completed in 1896, reportedly for £6,000.
At the time, the building held a 400-seat lecture hall, a billiard hall, a library, a chess room and a reading room. According to Leichhardt Council, by 1912 the Institute, which aimed to 'improve the education of working men and instruct them in the trades', had 700 members.
Since then, the building has housed the Balmain dole office (during the depression), entertainment venues, and now a mix of offices, retailers and restaurants. Its interiors, renovated since its construction, are reminiscent of the building's history, with moulded arches and a tessellated tile floor in the building's foyer.
The building is currently zoned B2, for mixed residential and commercial use. It has 929 square metres of floor space, on a 645 square metre plot.
The Institute Arcade, being marketed through Steven Zoellner of Laing + Simmons Double Bay and Sonia Leal of Niche Portfolio, will be auctioned on 7 April.
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Balmain's Institute Arcade going under the hammer

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

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."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=314259]

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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=925]

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."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=5374]

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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