A Bella Vista site with development approval for 109 apartments across three buildings, has been listed fr sale in Sydney's nrth west.

It will provide more than 18,800sq m of gross floor area in total upon completion.

Knight Frank agents Mark Litwin, Grant Bulpett and Dominic Ong have been appointed to market the property by Jonathan Henry, Barry Kogan, Jason Ireland and Jason Preston of McGrathNicol, as receivers and managers of the Mortgagee.

Mr Litwin said it was a significant development opportunity in an R1 zone with approved gross floor area that is "unable to be repeated."

“You can’t repeat this DA currently as the density control has changed since it was approved.

“There’s over 18,000sqm of gross floor area across this development, which benefits from intelligent design to include spacious, flexible interiors that people want these days, particularly in apartment buildings.

“More than 80 per cent of the units in the approved plan are two-bedroom units with an office, and each unit has two parking spaces, with underground parking provided for.”

Litwin said the apartments would attract owner occupiers, growing local families, and the emerging ‘Work From Home’ demographic.

The Bella Vista train station is just 750 metres away, connecting residents to nearby major employment centres such as Norwest and Macquarie Park, as well as retail and lifestyle centres including Castle Hill and Rouse Hill Town Centre.

Offers are due September 30.


A development site with existing approval for an apartment development has hit the market


jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Bella Vista apartment development site for sale

The student accommodation provider Global Student Accommodation (GSA) has topped out its $110 million tower in the heart of Adelaide.

The 118m tall building will be the largest of the GSA portfolio of properties in Australia with 725 bedrooms and extensive communal areas.

It is located within 100 metres of the University of Adelaide, the City East campus of the University of South Australia and the South Australian Government’s Lot Fourteen innovation hub on North Terrace.

The complex will be operated by Yugo (previously The Student Housing Company Australia) and will be named Yugo Adelaide City.

This is GSA’s fifth development asset in Australia, adding to its existing presence including The Boulevard in Perth, Infinity Place and University Square in Melbourne. GSA will manage 2,000 beds in Australia once Yugo Adelaide City is complete, adding to its global footprint of 55 cities across nine countries globally.

GSA managing director of Real Estate, James Hunt said the complex is on track for completion in early 2022.

“South Australia is a world-class education destination with the University of Adelaide being in the top one per cent in the world with an increase in applications for 2021 despite the pandemic,” Mr Hunt said.

The project, which created close to 320 jobs was undertaken by contractor Synergy Construct.



The student accommodation provider Gal Student Accommodation (GSA) has topped out its $110 million tower in the heart of Adelaide

GSA tops out $110 million tower Yugo Adelaide City

Global investment manager Hines has paid $16.5 million for its first site in Brunswick.

Set six&nbsp;kilometres from the centre of Melbourne, Mirvac and Milieu Property are currently developing a nearby BTR project on Albert Street with more than 500 rental apartments.

Hines plans to develop a 250-unit BTR apartment complex at the 4247-square metre site at 10 Ballarat Street.

It will have an end value of $250 million.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=94542 project_image_fid=160729]

Sam Bisla, who heads Hines new BTR and co-living business in Australia, said the asset class would deliver &quot;defensive, stable cash flow&quot; for investors.

The warehouse site, leased to Bell Plaster Supplies, sold through Colliers with a permit for an eight-level building of 163 apartments designed by Bruce Henderson Architects.

It is expected planning authorities will grant extra capacity for BTR.

Build to Rent refers to a residential development in which all apartments are owned by the developer and leased out to tenants, as opposed to the build-to-sell model.

The site last sold for $12 million in 2017.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=94542 project_image_fid=160734]

Mirvac and joint venture partner Milieu have a late 2024 scheduled completion date for its a one-hectare site in Brunswick.

Mirvac has estimated the project would cost $172 million to build.&nbsp;

Assemble Futures are currently marketing their take on build-to-rent (Rent-Save-Buy) just a few doors down from the recent sale.

Their 4 Ballarat Street project,&nbsp;with design by&nbsp;Fieldwork Architects&nbsp;and landscape design by Rush Wright, places an emphasis on providing a seamless transition to the natural environment, with each apartment running on 100% renewable energy.

The&nbsp;spacious outdoor areas and floor-to-ceiling glazing provide&nbsp;plenty of light to fill each living space and cross-flow ventilation.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=94542 project_image_fid=160741]

Global investment manager Hines has paid $16.5 million for the 4247-square metre site at 10 Ballarat Street

Hines joins Brunswick build-to-rent push

Australia&rsquo;s housing markets are entering &quot;very tricky territory&quot; as the return of major virus disruptions combine an extraordinary boom starting to run into affordability constraints.&nbsp;

But Westpac senior economist Matthew Hassan anticipates a temporary loss of momentum rather than a correction was impacting housing markets, and a rapid snap-back was likely once lockdown restrictions ease.

&quot;Risk aversion remains elevated,&quot; he said.

&quot;The combined signal remains positive for now but looks susceptible to slowing.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5328 project_image_fid=155345] 
 
&ldquo;Thin trading means some sub-markets will be more susceptible to weakness near term, particularly where economic pressures are intense and the virus outlook uncertain,&quot; Hassan said.

&quot;However, thin trading also means even lower &lsquo;on-market&rsquo; supply that could be a bigger issue once activity rebounds.&rdquo; 
&nbsp; 
The latest Westpac Housing Pulse noted broader consumer confidence had taken a substantial hit but is holding up compared to last year&rsquo;s major lockdown episodes and vaccine availability providing a key support.

&quot;For housing, surging prices and stretched affordability look to be far more important than COVID considerations,&quot; the report noted.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5559 project_image_fid=168395]

The Westpac Melbourne Institute &lsquo;time to buy a dwelling&rsquo; index dropped 14% over the three months to August after a similar decline over the previous three months.

The index has now slumped by nearly a third from its November high, with August marking the second lowest read since 2010.&nbsp;

&quot;The steep fall is a clear warning that deteriorating affordability is starting to weigh heavily on buyer sentiment amongst owner occupiers,&quot; Hassan said.

Westpac senior economist Matthew Hassan anticipates a temporary loss of momentum rather than a correction in the most heavily impacted areas

Westpac forecasts rapid housing market snap-back once lockdown restrictions ease

Westpac has become the first big four bank to offer a variable home loan rate under 2 per cent, however the rate is only introductory. 
&nbsp; 
Australia&rsquo;s second largest lender slashed its basic variable rates by 0.20 per cent for both owner-occupiers and investors paying principal and interest. 
&nbsp; 
This takes Westpac&rsquo;s lowest variable rate to 1.99 per cent for 2 years, reverting to 2.49 per cent thereafter. 
&nbsp; 
St. George, Bank of Melbourne and BankSA have all dropped their basic variable rates by 0.20 per cent.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102580 project_image_fid=167427]

The subsidiaries also cut their 2-year fixed rates by 0.10 per cent. 
&nbsp; 
The group hiked its 4- and 5-year fixed rates by 0.30 per cent.

Analysis of the RateCity.com.au database shows while the majority of recent changes by home loan lenders for fixed rates were hikes, particularly in the longer terms of 3 years and above, it was a different story for variable rates. 
&nbsp; 
In the last two months, 54 lenders have cut at least one variable rate, while just 10 lenders have made hikes to variable rates. 
&nbsp; 
RateCity.com.au research director, Sally Tindall said: Westpac was looking for a bigger slice of the refinancing pie, which hit a record of more than $16 billion in the month of June according to the latest ABS figures.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=103179 project_image_fid=167491] 
&nbsp; 
&ldquo;Westpac is the first big four bank to offer a variable home loan rate starting with a &lsquo;1&rsquo;, and while the discount is only for the first two years, it reverts to a rate that&rsquo;s still lower than its big four bank competitors,&rdquo; she said. 
&nbsp; 
&ldquo;The bank was already competing fiercely in most fixed rate categories. Now it&rsquo;s chasing variable rate customers who want both low rates and flexibility. 
&nbsp; 
&ldquo;The variable rate cut from Westpac is reserved for new customers, however, that shouldn&rsquo;t stop existing customers from picking up the phone and asking for a lower rate,&rdquo; she said. 
&nbsp;

Westpac is the first big four bank to offer a variable home loan rate starting with a ‘1’

Westpac offers variable home loan rate under 2 percent 

More than 9,000 homes with bigger backyards are part of a vision that will boost housing supply in Wilton in Sydney’s south-west. 
 
Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Rob Stokes said the final Wilton Development Control Plan (DCP) balances the need for housing as well as ensuring its green future.
 
“Wilton will change the face of development in the Macarthur, with improved standards for backyard sizes to facilitate trees, front gardens and lighter colour palettes to help reduce the urban heat island effect,” Mr Stokes said.
 
“This means, for the first time, homes are required to have light coloured roofs. 

"We are determined to help to keep the temperatures of our homes and streets cooler in the summer months, especially in Sydney’s western and south-western suburbs.”
 
Mr Stokes said the DCP would also ensure that neighbourhood plans and subsequent development applications are in accordance with biodiversity principles, and would provide a sensitive urban interface with important koala habitat and koala corridors in the Wilton Growth Area.
 
Member for Wollondilly Nathaniel Smith added the aim is to make Wilton more than liveable - we want it to be resilient. 
 
To support the implementation of the DCP, the Wilton Housing Complying Development Code Explanation of Intended Effect (EIE) is also out for public comment. 
 
“Quality public spaces are important for thriving communities and this work will ensure Wilton has leafy streets, trees in every yard and open spaces for everyone to enjoy.” 

The Wilton Housing Complying Development Code Explanation of Intended Effect (EIE) is out for public comment

More than 9,000 "green" homes planned for Wilton in Sydney’s south-west 

Data from by the Australian Banking Association shows the number of home loans in deferral given the pandemic lockdown jumped by almost 20 per cent in early August.

NSW has the highest numbers.

In the week to August 15 more than 18,106 home loans were into deferral across the big four banks. 

NSW accounted for 13,256 of the total loan deferrals, followed by ­Victoria with 2813 and Queensland with 1140.

It took NSW to 23,001 bank customers granted hardship assistance.

As at early August the data collected by the Australian Banking Association from the big four banks, and Bendigo and Adelaide Bank, revealed that 15,298 loans had been deferred since July 8.

The deferrals come as a national survey by comparison website Finder suggests a single mortgage rate rise would be enough to push one in 20 home owners into financial hardship.

A home loan rate hike would see 5 per cent of borrowers in financial hardship leaving them requiring financial assistance, according to Finder.

“The financial health of Australians has been knocked around over the past 18 months, with many entering current lockdowns with very little reserves,” said Kate Browne, a personal finance expert at Finder.

“There’s a risk this further economic shock could lead to Australians falling behind on their mortgage payments if they don’t have adequate support.”

Prospa, the small business lender, has provided an update on small business, advising that as of August, 2.1 per cent of its customer accounts were on part-payment arrangements and a further 1.3 per cent were on full deferral.

The Commonwealth Bank revealed only 240 new deferrals for business customers' loans as at July 31, less than 0.1 per cent of its portfolio. 

At the height of the pandemic last year the bank, the nation's biggest, gave 83,000 business borrowers a repayment holiday. 

Australian Banking Association data had from July 8 to the first week of August about 600 business loans nationally were in deferral compared to 225,000 business loans last year.



More than 18,100 home loans are in deferral across the four major banks 

Home loan deferrals spike amid Covid lockdowns

Hurstville&rsquo;s new Lotus Residences developer, TQM, has installed what they believe to be Sydney&rsquo;s first resident-only pet playground with a private dog park, play equipment, and grooming amenities.

The park comes with specially designed dog play equipment, grooming facilities with bath, shower and air dryer, a sandpit, lush grass area, shaded sail.

There is security swipe access to its private dog park.

TQM commissioned the park in the plans by H3 Architects comprises three towers. There are two seven storeys with the third 13 storeys about five minutes&rsquo; walk from the Westfield shopping centre.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13538 project_image_fid=162000]

Recent studies show two out of five Australians share their home with a dog.&nbsp;

Onsite dog parks are more common in the US, Mark Taouk, development director at TQM said.

&ldquo;We know many apartment dwellers love human&rsquo;s best friend, and pets have a positive effect on our physical and mental health.&rdquo; 
&nbsp; 
&ldquo;Pets also enhance social connectedness and social skills.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13538 project_image_fid=162007]

&quot;TQM is thrilled to lead the way by promoting dog-friendly luxury living,&rdquo; said Taouk.

Lotus Residences offers over 126 apartments.

For the owners, there is a rooftop garden and barbecue areas. 
&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Lotus Residences offers dog friendly apartments in Sydney South

Lotus Residences, Hurstville apartments offering communal dog park

During the current lockdown pets are more important than ever, and from 25 August the NSW Government&rsquo;s new laws will put an end to blanket bans on animals in strata blocks. 
&nbsp; 
The changes follow a review of the Strata Schemes Management Act 2015 (the Act) and public consultation, focusing on the keeping of animals in strata schemes. 
&nbsp; 
Minister for Better Regulation Kevin Anderson said the new laws reflected broad community sentiment from the review.

He expects they demonstrate a balanced approach for both residents and owners corporations in keeping animals in strata.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=32227 project_image_fid=93945]&nbsp; 
 
&ldquo;A lot has changed since the Act commenced in 2015, including a huge shift to apartment living as more and more people in NSW are choosing to buy and rent in higher density areas,&rdquo; Mr Anderson said. 
&nbsp; 
&ldquo;On top of that, research tells us that Australia has one of the highest rates of pet ownership in the world, with 61 per cent of households including a pet in their family, and 91 per cent of households owning a pet at some point in their lives. 
&nbsp; 
&ldquo;Following extensive feedback from the community we have implemented fair and sensible regulations that prevent schemes from introducing blanket bans on keeping pets in apartments, while ensuring owners corporations can refuse pets where they unreasonably impact other residents.&rdquo;

The government move came after the strata corporation of the luxury Darlinghurst apartment block lost a New South Wales Court of Appeal case which found in favour of the soul singer Jo Cooper, who had argued a bylaw that banned pets &ndash; including her dog Angus &ndash; was unfair.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=32227 project_image_fid=93950]

The ruling followed a five-year legal battle in the Harry Seidler-designed Horizon tower in Darlinghurst.&nbsp;

The justices John Basten, Robert Macfarlan and Des Fagan ruled the bylaw restricted the &ldquo;lawful use of each lot&rdquo; and lacked a &ldquo;rational connection with the enjoyment of other lots and the common property&rdquo;.

&ldquo;A bylaw which limits the property rights of lot owners is only lawful if it protects from adverse affection the use and enjoyment by other occupants of their own lots, or the common property,&rdquo; they ruled.

From 25 August 2021, the new regulations will prescribe a limited list of specific grounds where an owners corporation can refuse a lot owner from keeping an animal in a strata scheme or take steps to remove an existing animal from the scheme. These circumstances include repeated damage of the common property, menacing behavior, persistent noise and odour. 
&nbsp; 
Owners corporations will also be able to set reasonable conditions through their own by-laws on how pets are kept in their scheme, for example whether they have to be supervised on common property or enter and exit through a dedicated entrance or lift.

&ldquo;As a dog owner myself I understand how important pets are for families in this state, and their companionship cannot be understated, particularly during the current pandemic,&rdquo; Mr Anderson said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=32227 project_image_fid=93954] 
&nbsp; 
&ldquo;Living in strata is becoming more popular and while we don&rsquo;t want strata residents deprived of the benefits of owning a pet it&rsquo;s also important the amenity of neighbours and others in the building isn&rsquo;t impacted.&nbsp;

&quot;Our new laws have been designed to strike the right balance for everyone living in strata communities, putting an end to blanket bans on pets while giving owners corporations clear guidance on how they can set rules to ensure other owners aren&rsquo;t impacted.&rdquo; 
&nbsp; 
NSW Fair Trading will be offering support, advice and mediation services for residents and owners corporations who are unsure about the new rules and how they apply within their scheme. Unresolved disputes can also be escalated to the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal where appropriate.

NSW Fair Trading will be offering support, advice and mediation services for residents and owners corporations

NSW ends blanket bans on animals in strata from August 25

Three luxury apartments have sold in the past week in Teneriffe topped by a $1.7 million sale in an old warehouse complex.

It was in the river-facing Dakota woolstore at 407/88 Maquarie Street.

The former Goldsbrough Mort and Company Ltd building conversion was undertaken by the Meridien development group headed by Russell McCart. 

It first sold at $450,000 in 2001, amid the 268 heritage listed apartments.
 
It had 199sqm of space in the three-bedroom, two-bathroom over two levels.

Large sash windows have a view of the Brisbane River.

It sold through Ray White agent Ben Percival.

Meridien evolved into Pacifica Developments, where McCart is chairman.

There was a $1.42 million sale in the 1911 Winchcombe Carson Woolstore.

The 54 Vernon Terrace offering had huge timber beams dissecting its dining and formal living areas in the three bedroom apartment.

The cheapest of the three sales was a modern riverfront apartment at 135 Macquarie Street, Mercantile Place.

It had two bedrooms with 120 sqm plus courtyard.

The building features include a security gated entry to car park amid extensive sub-tropical gardens.

Three luxury apartments have sold in the past week in Teneriffe

Teneriffe woolstore apartment sales spree

For most new apartment buildings, the Owners Corporation starts life with little more than a bank account and the first quarterly strata levies.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/9-gay-street-castle-hill-9-gay-street-castle-hill-nsw-2154">9 Gay Street</a> in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/castle-hill-nsw-2154">Castle Hill</a>, it starts with around $7 million in reserve.

It's an unusual legacy of what was once one of Sydney's highest-profile apartment remediation projects. When the development, originally known as Skyview and built by disgraced developer Top Place, came under scrutiny by then NSW Building Commissioner David Chandler, an $11 million remediation bond was negotiated to ensure any building defects could be fully rectified.

The building underwent an 18-month remediation program, during which around $4 million of that bond was spent bringing the building up to the standard it should have been in from the outset.

After extensive inspections, all active rectification orders have been lifted. What's more, around $7.2 million remains secured for the Owners Corporation for the next 15 years.

In a twist few would have predicted, what began as a significant concern for purchasers has left the building with something almost unheard of in the apartment market: a multi-million-dollar financial reserve from day one.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147685 project_image_fid=359136]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Equitifund</a> Executive Chairman Greg Huxley said the structure offers buyers a level of certainty that is difficult to replicate.

"The $11 million bond established for the Skyview Castle Hill development represents exceptional value, providing genuine financial security for purchasers," Huxley said.

"Unlike a standard insurance policy, this bond consists of real funds held in trust for the Owners Corporation, offering a tangible layer of protection and added peace of mind."

The apartments themselves have been designed with a focus on practical, contemporary living. Interiors feature Smeg appliances, stone benchtops, tiled living areas, carpeted bedrooms, 2.7-metre ceilings, floor-to-ceiling glazing, and ducted heating and cooling throughout.

Residents also have access to a range of shared amenities, including two rooftop barbecue areas, a swimming pool, children's playgrounds, secure building access, storage cages, and visitor parking.

The location continues to be one of the project's strongest drawcards. Castle Hill Metro Station sits virtually on the doorstep, providing direct connections across Sydney's expanding Metro network, while Castle Towers offers extensive retail, dining, entertainment, and service amenities within walking distance.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147685 project_image_fid=359127]

The building, now named after its location at 9 Gay Street, comprises a diverse mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments starting from just under $600,000.

Equitifund National Sales Director Ben Hamblett said demand in the Hills District continues to be driven by buyers seeking convenience and connectivity.

"Interest from both owner-occupiers and investors in Castle Hill remains exceptionally strong, with buyers consistently prioritising developments in close proximity to the Metro station and Castle Towers Shopping Centre," Hamblett said.

"There is a clear trend in the market, with purchasers seeking convenient access to transport and lifestyle amenities that support a seamless, low-maintenance way of living."

On top of the long-term protection afforded by the remaining $7.2 million bond, Equitifund is offering a limited-time stamp duty rebate on selected apartments.

Eligible purchasers can also secure finance options, including a 3.99 per cent two-year variable rate, loan-to-value ratios of up to 90 per cent, and interest-only lending options through EquitiCredit.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=147685]

Joel Robinson

Why this Castle Hill apartment building starts with a $7 million advantage

For much of the past few years, conversations about Australia's property market have centred on the rapid growth seen in Sydney, Brisbane, Gold Coast, and Perth. <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/melbourne-vic-3004">Melbourne</a> has followed a different trajectory.

That relative underperformance is now encouraging some buyers to reassess the city, particularly those willing to look beyond short-term market movements and focus on quality property in established locations, along with the long-term growth prospects of a city expected to overtake Sydney as Australia’s most populous.

John Bekiaris, Research &amp; Market Insights at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Projects by Equitifund</a>, said Melbourne's current position is attracting increasingly sophisticated purchasers.

"Melbourne continues to present one of Australia's strongest long-term investment stories," Bekiaris says.

"While other capital cities have experienced stronger recent growth, that relative underperformance is exactly what's attracting sophisticated counter-cyclical investors."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1979 project_image_fid=363268]

Equitifund isn't just commenting on Melbourne's property market, it's investing in it.

The Sydney-headquartered capital partner has taken over the remaining apartments at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/victoriana-melbourne-20-queens-road-melbourne-vic-3004">Victoriana</a>, the recently completed glass-encased development opposite Albert Park Lake in Melbourne's tightly held St Kilda Road precinct.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a> and built by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/hickory">Hickory</a>, Victoriana places residents between one of Melbourne's most recognised parklands and the CBD, offering oversized two and three-bedroom apartments aimed at owner-occupiers seeking a genuine alternative to a traditional family home.

The development comprises 232 completed residences alongside a suite of resident amenities, including a 25-metre indoor swimming pool, gymnasium, landscaped entertaining areas, resident lounges, EV charging, secure basement parking and a concierge-style arrival experience.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1979 project_image_fid=363229]

The apartments have been designed with owner-occupiers firmly in mind.&nbsp;Open-plan living and dining areas flow onto generous balconies framing views across Albert Park Lake, Fawkner Park, the Royal Botanic Gardens and the Melbourne skyline.

Kitchens feature Gaggenau appliances, stone benchtops and generous preparation space. Bedrooms include built-in robes, while bathrooms feature full-height textured tiling. Hardwood flooring and ducted air conditioning complete residences designed for long-term living.

Rothelowman's architecture takes its cues from the landscape opposite the site. Sweeping horizontal glazing references the movement of Albert Park Lake, while generous balconies and expansive glazing strengthen the connection between the apartments and the surrounding parklands. The result is a building designed to deliver the scale and amenity expected of luxury apartment living, while offering the larger floorplans increasingly sought by owner-occupiers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1979 project_image_fid=363284]

The location is one of Victoriana's defining characteristics. Positioned on Queens Road, residents are directly opposite Albert Park Lake and within easy reach of Fawkner Park, the Royal Botanic Gardens, South Melbourne, St Kilda Road and the CBD. With few comparable development opportunities remaining in the precinct, buyers are increasingly placing value on outlooks that are unlikely to be interrupted by future construction.

Greg Huxley, Founder of Equitifund, believes those qualities become even more valuable over time.

"Premium real estate has always rewarded buyers who take a long-term view," Huxley said.

"Victoriana represents the kind of asset that's increasingly difficult to recreate today, particularly in an established location like Queens Road."

He said rising construction costs are also changing the way buyers assess completed developments.

"When you combine an irreplaceable location with thoughtful architecture and premium finishes, you create something that becomes increasingly difficult to reproduce as construction costs continue to rise."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1979 project_image_fid=363228]

According to National Sales Director Ben Hamblett, enquiry has been driven largely by Melbourne downsizers and buyers upgrading from smaller apartments.

"Interest in Victoriana continues to build, with strong buyer focus on the larger owner-occupier residences within the development," Hamblett says.

"Enquiry is increasingly driven by local buyers who recognise the rarity of what's on offer: park-facing apartments in an established neighbourhood where new development opportunities are becoming increasingly scarce. At Victoriana, the view is not just a feature; it's an appreciating asset in its own right."

He said interstate enquiry has also strengthened as buyers reassess Melbourne's position within the national property cycle.

"Melbourne currently stands as the most compelling entry point of any major Australian capital, and discerning buyers are beginning to recognise what those who move early always understand: the best opportunities are taken before the price rise confirms them."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=1979]

Why now is the time to buy in Melbourne's premium apartment market

Developers and apartment buyers have a narrowing window of opportunity before Brisbane's Olympic infrastructure pipeline begins competing directly with residential construction, pushing up costs, tightening labour supply and making new projects increasingly difficult to deliver.

While Brisbane's apartment market continues to benefit from strong population growth and limited housing supply, industry research suggests the years leading up to 2027 could prove to be the most important period for developers looking to secure builders and buyers hoping to purchase before the next wave of price increases.

A new Colliers report, Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games: Creating Solutions, highlights the scale of the challenge. While thousands of new homes are planned across South East Queensland, the Brisbane Olympic Athletes Village alone will deliver more than 10,500 beds during the Games before being converted into around 1,750 to 2,000 apartments. Equivalent to almost two years of typical inner-city apartment supply, the project will also absorb a significant share of the construction workforce and building materials.

The broader construction pipeline paints an even clearer picture.

Construction Skills Queensland's Horizon 2032 report forecasts Queensland's annual construction pipeline will average $69 billion over the coming years before peaking at $75 billion in 2027-28. Demand for construction workers is expected to increase by 17 per cent to almost 150,000 people, with the industry facing an annual shortfall of around 19,000 workers that could blow out to as many as 35,000 during the peak construction period.

The Olympic venues, athletes village and supporting infrastructure will account for billions of dollars worth of work across South East Queensland through to 2032, creating intense competition for labour at a time when Australia's residential construction sector is already under pressure.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150489 project_image_fid=373834]

Colliers Queensland Residential Director Andrew Scriven said the convergence of these projects is creating a clear window of opportunity for both developers and buyers.

"From 2027 onwards, the market will shift dramatically," Scriven said.

"Labour will increasingly be locked into government-led infrastructure and Olympic projects, which means private residential developments will face higher costs and tighter margins. The developers who move now are the ones most likely to get projects off the ground."

Scriven said the same dynamic would also affect buyers, with fewer apartment projects expected to launch once construction capacity tightens.

"If you're looking to change your lifestyle over the next five years, now is your window of opportunity to buy."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150713 project_image_fid=373827]

Developers are already positioning themselves ahead of that window.

Following the success of Monarch at Toowong, Consolidated Properties is preparing to launch two new Brisbane apartment projects in the second half of 2026. They include <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/gloriette-30-bedivere-street-yeerongpilly-qld-4105">Gloriette</a> at Yeerongpilly Green, a 25-storey tower within one of Brisbane's key Olympic precincts, and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/castile-47-skyring-terrace-newstead-qld-4006">Castile</a>, a recently approved 25-storey riverfront development at 47 Skyring Terrace in Newstead.

Hutchinson Builders will deliver both projects, with early works already underway at Yeerongpilly and Newstead expected to commence later this year.

The timing comes as Brisbane's fundamentals continue to strengthen, with strong interstate migration, population growth and vacancy rates remaining below 1.5 per cent.

Colliers Queensland researcher Pragya Sharma said Greater Brisbane is forecast to require around 40,000 new apartments between 2021 and 2031.

"There's a real mismatch emerging between when housing is needed and when it will be feasible to build," Sharma said.

"As a result, the period leading up to 2027 presents a key window of opportunity for developers to secure approvals, funding and construction capacity, while buyers will have greater choice before supply constraints intensify."

Colliers research outlines a critical pre-2027 window to start residential projects before labour squeeze: now is the time to buy

Developers, buyers on watch in South East Queensland ahead of construction crunch: Colliers

It's taken less than nine months for developer Sherpa Property Group to sell out all 51 apartments in its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-oasis-palm-beach-7-9-sixth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Oasis</a> development in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/palm-beach-qld-4221">Palm Beach</a>, over a year before its anticipated completion.

&nbsp;

Located at 7-9 Sixth Avenue, the $67 million development has resonated strongly with both local owner-occupiers and downsizers seeking high-quality apartments within walking distance of the beach, dining precincts and everyday amenities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151449 project_image_fid=357458]

Christie Leet, Founder of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sherpa-property-group">Sherpa Group</a>, said the sell-out reflected both the strength of the Palm Beach market and the success of Sherpa's community-first approach to development.

"The sell-out of Oasis is a fantastic outcome and reinforces the strong demand we're seeing for thoughtfully designed apartments in lifestyle locations," Leet said.

"From the outset, our vision was to create a development that genuinely enhanced the Palm Beach community while providing residents with exceptional homes and wellness-focused amenities.

"We've been incredibly encouraged by the level of local support throughout the campaign, 72.5 per cent of buyers are locals, with a significant proportion of purchasers choosing Oasis as their future home rather than an investment."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151449 project_image_fid=357463]

Construction is now progressing following development approval, with trusted builder LPS Group delivering the project and completion anticipated in Q3 2027.

Oasis forms part of Sherpa Group's successful Flourish collection, which has become recognised for its focus on wellness, community and elevated coastal living.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151449 project_image_fid=357469]

Residents will have private access to a rooftop amenity space featuring a pool, gym, sauna, steam room, hot and cold plunge pools, spa and barbecue facilities.

"The success of Oasis demonstrates that buyers continue to prioritise quality, location and lifestyle," Leet said.

"We are proud to have delivered a project that has resonated so strongly with the market and look forward to bringing Oasis to life for our future residents."

Sherpa recently launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-soleira-palm-beach-1150-1160-gold-coast-highway-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Soleira</a>, its third instalment of the Flourish brand in Palm Beach following Flourish Oasis and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/amargo-6-12-sixth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Amargo</a>.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=151449]

Sherpa sells out Flourish Oasis in booming Palm Beach

Urban Property Group's <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/la-vera-macquarie-park-94-talavera-road-macquarie-park-nsw-2113">La Vera</a> is leading the next phase of Macquarie Park's residential evolution, with the new apartment development set to become the first of several new apartment projects in the precinct to complete.

The 169-apartment building has now topped out ahead of its scheduled completion in the third quarter of 2026, as new residential investment continues to reshape one of Sydney's largest employment hubs into a true mixed-use precinct.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134951 project_image_fid=368645]

Cox Architecture has designed La Vera to capture the best of its unique positioning on Talavera Road, orienting the building towards Lane Cove National Park.&nbsp;The building features a sculpted northern façade with flowing curves inspired by the surrounding landscape, while its city-facing elevation adopts a more structured architectural expression to maximise skyline views.

"The vision for the project was to conceive a building that adopted an organic and curvilinear form to the northern portion that faces the Lane Cove National Park," <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">Cox Architecture</a> Director Felipe Miranda said.

"The residents that reside in the northern portion of the building benefit by having beautifully crafted curved balconies that speak to the natural context and heighten the relationship of their internal living spaces to the external balconies."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134951 project_image_fid=358802]

La Vera offers a diverse mix of one, two, three, and four-bedroom configurations, with prices currently starting from $740,000. Buyers so far have been a mix of Sydney-based investors,&nbsp;metro commuters, owner-occupiers and downsizers from surrounding North Shore suburbs.

Both investors and owner-occupiers have been drawn to La Vera's proximity to Macquarie University, Macquarie University Hospital, Macquarie Centre and the Sydney Metro, infrastructure that supports both strong rental demand and a convenient lifestyle for residents.

The apartments feature full-height glazing, timber flooring throughout living areas, stone kitchen benchtops, SMEG appliances, floor-to-ceiling bathroom tiling and ducted air conditioning.

Residents will have access to a rooftop recreation level featuring a swimming pool, sauna, barbecue facilities and landscaped relaxation areas, complemented by additional communal space at ground level. Many apartments enjoy uninterrupted views across Lane Cove National Park, reinforcing the project's connection to its natural setting.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134951 project_image_fid=364551]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a>, a family-owned developer and builder with nearly four decades of experience, holds a 4.5-star iCIRT rating and was Australia's first developer to introduce 10-Year Latent Defects Insurance (LDI). La Vera is the first apartment development in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/macquarie-park-nsw-2113">Macquarie Park</a> approved to offer the additional insurance protection, alongside a five-year warranty on SMEG appliances.

Urban Property Group CEO Patrick Elias said the additional protection reflects changing buyer expectations in the off the plan market.

"Consumers are a lot more weary and a lot more concerned in buying off the plan than they ever have been. Having LDI is a tool to portray the confidence that we have in our product, and a confidence we want buyers to share," Elias said.

Following completion of the building later this year, buyers will move into their apartments well before Christmas.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134951]

Jonathan Chancellor

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News