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There's been a rush of designer own listings for auction across the inner city.
The interior designer Diane Fernandes and her foodie husband, Peter Kypreos, best known for co-founding Darlinghurst's Buffalo Dining Club, are looking to sell their renovated Zetland cottage.
McGrath agents Marnie Seinor and Brad Gillespie are expecting over $1.3 million at its March 12 auction.
The terrace has two bedrooms, each with original fireplaces.
Diane, whose projects have included Tokyo in Surry Hills and Jimmy Liks in Potts Point, teaches at Sydney Design School. 
The stylish Rozelle townhouse of interior stylist Natalie Fryer (above) didn't sell at auction yesterday, but then found a buyer after auction.
Lydnsey Kemp of Belle Property Balmain passed in the property at $2.05 million with four interested parties in the three bedroom Terry Street strata title property that was bought new in 2007 for $1.46 million.
Natalie set up her own property styling business, m2 Property Presentation six years ago which focuses on helping agents and vendors boost the appeal and saleability of their homes.
Last month McGrath agent, Angus Gorrie sold the home of Mary Brandon, owner of interior design firm MBBD.
Her four-bedroom property boasts views over Sydney Harbour across Cooper Park.
The View Street property fetched $2.72 million. 
This article was first published in the Sunday Telegraph.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Designer listings aplenty across Sydney inner city

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Hassad Australia, the $469 million agricultural land company owned by Qatar's sovereign wealth fund, has delivered a $3.46 million loss.
The Australian Financial Review reported it was yet to make a profit since arriving in Australia in 2010 with a combined loss of $27 million.
Hassad owns 14 agricultural property aggregations in Queensland, NSW, Victoria, South Australia and Western Australia, totalling about 300,000 hectares of pastoral and cropping land. 
The Hassad board is chaired by Nasser Mohamed Al Hajri, who chaired the delegation of the state of Qatar at the World Bank and International Monetary Fund.
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Hassad Australia make another farming loss

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Moelis managing director Andrew Martin and his wife Kate secured around $7.5 million for their Darling Point home last weekend through McGrath agent Ben Collier.
The couple paid $825,000 for the freestanding 1900's home and added a heated swimming pool.
The 525 sqm property has five bedrooms and three bathrooms.
The Martins are off to Paddington having paid around $10.5 million for the the converted furniture emporium sold by billionaire tech entreprenuer Mike Cannon-Brookes and wife, Annie late last year. 
Andrew has over 20 years of experience globally including roles at UBS and with Rothschild. 
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Moelis merchant banker Andrew Martin sells Darling Point for Paddo emporium

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Singer songwriter Missy Higgins, the ARIA award-winner, has secured a buyer for her Abbotsford red brick warehouse conversion, as her offering joined the 2016 early bird properties selling quickly and without disappointment.
Higgins paid $1.8 million in mid-2012 for the property (above) with ITN Architects refurb. It was listed by private treaty through Kay &amp; Burton with $2.1 million hopes. There's suggestions 21a Mollison Street, set a short walk to the Yarra River, Studley Park and Victoria Street shops, fetched $2.2 million.
"The market is rocking strong at all levels on almost all properties," said Melbourne buyers agent Mal James.
"Only C grade stock is failing and that is almost always a function of seller opinion versus market opinion on the price," he suggested.
Four sales above $6 million kept the trophy home markets turning over nicely, with agents in Sydney and Melbourne now complaining they don't have the prestige stock to match buyer demand.
Australian test cricketer vice captain David Warner and his wife Candice secured a bullish $7 million plus sale of their South Coogee home three weeks ahead of its intended weekend auction.
The sale was easily above the $6.25 million paid two years ago by the couple who listed following their $4 million purchase of a oceanfront building block in Maroubra. 
The South Coogee home, once rented by ealier owners to the cast of the Geordie Shore reality television show, sold through McGrath agent Bethwyn Richards.
There was also a $6.45 million Mosman pre-auction sale which the Simeon Manners agency declared for its 61a Muston Street offering.
In Armadale, the price of the under the hammer sale of 12 Barnato Grove through Kay &amp; Burton, was not released publicly.
But attendees said it was sold at $6.74 million with four bidders no doubt attracted to the cutting edge five bedroom home set in Nathan Burkett designed gardens that featured in '100 Australian Gardens &amp; Landscapes.'
There'd been initial $4.5 million-plus price guidance.
A pre-auction modern four bedroom Balwyn home sale presumably took third place on the sales' podium as it was listed with $6 million plus aspirations, selling at an undisclosed price well ahead of the weekend auction.
Piermont, at 4 Boston Road, was a newly completed Phillip Mannerheim-designed home, with eight car basement garage, in the suburb's omnipresent Chateau-style (below).
<img src="/images/2016/03/7/main.jpg" alt="" width="660" height="495">
 
<img src="/images/2016/03/7/image11.jpg" alt="">
The nation's cheapest weekend result was a house in the Brisbane suburb of Marsden. The $267,000 sale at 10 Birch Street secured a three bedroom house which last sold at $90,000 in 1993. It fell short of the $285,000 asking price when listed by private treaty last November.
With less stock on the market there were more sales at higher than reserve than in previous weeks.
Wildly exceding expectations, in Sydney's Kingsford, an unrenovated, three-bedroom house attracted 27 bidders who forced the price to $3,065,000 – $1,065,000 over its reserve.
It traded in 2008 for just $1,015,000 with NG Farah selling agent Glenn Farah saying the weekend result at 6 Forsyth Street was “out of line” with other results in the area.
The auction of a classic Pettit and Sevitt house at West Pennant Hills, where seven parties lodge 68 bids before the hammer fell at $1,237,500 for the unrenovated house at 31 Eaton Road – $237,500 more than the reserve.
In St Kilda, the 1919 Aston Court, Spanish Mission apartment at 2/43 Acland Street had been listed with $900,000 plus hopes. Last traded at $635,000 in 2003, the two bedroom was knocked down at $1.24 million.
Not so lucky in St Kilda was entertainment industry talent manager Pete Sofo whose Santorini, 214/3-7 Alma Road investment apartment offering now comes with a private treaty price of $469,000. Sofo's McGrath agents had it initially listed expecting $400,000 to $440,000 for its March 5 auction. It last traded at $287,000 in 2006.
There were fewer auctions held this week across the capital cities - 2,253 compared to last week's 2,701, and the clearance rate fell from 71 percent last week to 68 percent this week, according to CoreLogic RP Data.
This week’s result marked the first time below the 70 percent mark this year.
Volumes will head lower next week due to the Labour Day public holiday in Melbourne where auction clearance rates sat at 70 percent, having fallen from 74 percent last week, with clearance rates ranging from 75.2 percent in North East Melbourne to 62.5 percent in Outer East Melbourne.
In Sydney, clearance rates fell to 68 percent this week from 72 percent last week. Over the week, 684 auctions were held across the city, down from 919 last week and also lower than the 944 that went under the hammer last year.
The inner regions of Sydney have maintained strength this week, with City and Inner South (81.3 percent), Ryde (80.7 percent) and Northern Beaches (78 percent) showing the strongest auction clearance rates for the week.
Brisbane’s preliminary results show 52.3 percent of auctions and across the Gold Coast, a preliminary clearance rate of 32.4 percent was recorded this week.
Canberra had the nation's best clearance rate at 71 percent this week with prices between $287,000 for a $380 a week, 1990s Kingston flat rental and a $2,585,000 four bedroom home in Forrest.
<a href="/images/2016/03/7/Screen%20Shot%202016-03-07%20at%2012.28.58%20PM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/03/7/Screen%20Shot%202016-03-07%20at%2012.28.58%20PM.png" alt="">
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Few auctions missing the mark among early bird offerings 

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Josh Altman, from the hit TV show Million Dollar Listing Los Angeles, is headed to Australia keen to check out our trophy home offerings.
The celebrity real estate agent says his celebrity rolodex was "second to none."
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2016/03/7/Unknown.jpeg" alt="" width="252" height="252">
"I sit in cars and drive around with clients, everybody from Kim and Kanye to rocket scientists, NBA all stars, heads of states and princes."
"I'm really blessed with the opportunity to do that."
Josh Altman, who replaced Chad Rogers six seasons ago on the series, has sold over US$2 billion worth of property during his real estate career.
But none yet in Australia for his client list that includes Kim Kardashian, Kanye West, Britney Spears, Aston Kutcher, Miley Cyrus and many more.
It won't be his first trip down under, however this will be all business, including giving motivational lectures and hosting private lunches with his business partner and older brother Matt, who together form quite the formidable team.
They'll be looking at doing property deals.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2016/03/7/unspecified.jpeg" alt="">
When asked whether he will be looking at some trophy homes in Sydney or Melbourne, he replied "are you kidding me? Absolutely!"
"Matt and I don't like sitting on beaches," he said.
No doubt leading Sydney estate agent Bill Malouf at LJ Hooker Double Bay will be the first call as last year Million Dollar Listing New York selling machine Fredrik Eklund caught up with Malouf when he breezed through.
Malouf has just signed up two prestige Point Piper listings on exclusive Wolseley Road, at 110 and 158 which will potentially sell for $40 million and $20 million plus respectively. 
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2016/03/7/unspecified-1.jpeg" alt="">
Josh has started filming his sixth season with the Bravo Foxtel series again dominating his every minute. 
"If you ask me, I feel like I've had cameras in my face my entire life at this point"
"We film the show ten months of the year, most reality shows film for two or three months tops," he said.
He said that he gets more listings and more clients because of it showing across the world.
"I'll wake up in the morning and I'll have 10 e-mails from Australia and I'll know that's the show."
Last year John sold about US$1 million of real estate every day. 
Josh has also started developing his own properties on the side and has flipped over a dozen in the last few years.
Among his record sales was the late Hollywood film producer Richard Zanuck's one bedroom property, which spread over 10,000 square feet (around 929 square metres), sold for US$20.1 million.
The property, which featured a custom designed Arnold Schwarzenegger gym has since been knocked down by his client who's building a $100 million house.
He is scheduled to be wed on April 2 to Heather Bilyeu and when asked how the preparations were going, he colourfully prompted "it makes real estate deals look easy my man."
He also invited us all and said jokingly says he give all the guests copies of his new book, It's Your Move as the wedding gifts.
Originally from Massachusetts, Altman moved to LA 13 years ago earning US$7.50 in the mail room before creating his fortune. 
He will speaking in Sydney at The Star Casino on June 14, where he promises to sprinkle his talk with celebrity stories.
Early Bird Tickets start at $99 from <a href="https://www.joshaltman.com.au/" target="_blank">www.joshaltman.com.au</a>
This article was first published in the Saturday Daily Telegraph.
 
TOUR DATES 
SYDNEY            Tuesday 14th June 2016          7pm The Star, Sydney. 
MELBOURNE   Wednesday 15th June 2016    7pm Melbourne Convention &amp; Exhibition Centre
BRISBANE        Sunday 19th June 2016            7pm Sofitel Brisbane 
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Josh Altman, from Million Dollar Listing LA, heading to Australia

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Developer Toga Group said it sold 80 percent of its new 192-apartment residential tower "One Twenty Macquarie" in Macquarie Park in Sydney's north within four hours  of launching on Saturday morning. 
More than 50 percent of the buyers were owner-occupiers.
Buyers at the launch exchanged $130 million in contracts for apartments after buyers queued from 8am.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2016/03/7/One20Twenty20Macquarie20Interior20Looking20Out_ma.jpg" alt="">
Toga chief executive Fabrizio Perilli said One Twenty Macquarie’s prime location in Macquarie Park’s bourgeoning satellite city coupled with the exceptional views on offer, were among the reasons more than 150-apartments were snapped up within four hours of release.
“This is a strong result and highlights the underlying demand for quality apartments with superb views and lifestyle amenities in an attractive satellite city,” Mr Perilli said.
Buyers were provided the opportunity to nominate apartment preferences in the lead up to the March 5 sales launch; minimising disappointment.
“Two and three-bedroom apartments proved to be particularly popular with the turnout of buyers on the day,” Mr Perilli added.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2016/03/7/Macquarie.jpg" alt="">
Toga is fast approaching its 1000th sale at Macquarie Park following the weekend result, given its sold out 618-apartment development Macquarie Central and Macquarie Green; a 164-apartment development now 90 per cent sold.
Prices of apartments started from $600,000 for a one-bedroom. For more information, <a href="https://www.onetwentymacquarie.com.au" target="_blank">click here</a>.
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Toga sells 80 percent of One Twenty Macquarie

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Hobart's Theatre Royal Hotel, one of the oldest pubs in Australia, has been bought by the University of Tasmania for $1.7 million.
The university snapped up the two-storey hotel, built in 1834 by Peter Degraves, founder of Cascade Brewery last week at Knight Frank auction.
The pub is next to the Theatre Royal and on the other side, the university has a $90 million arts hub.
In central Hobart is a 400-bed student accommodation facility on Melville Street, part of the development strategy by vice-chancellor Professor Peter Rathjen to immerse the university into the daily life of the city.
"In the great university cities of the world, the campus is right in the heart of city, providing life, energy and character," Professor Rathjen told AFR Weekend.
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Hobart's Cascade Theatre Royal Hotel sells to Tasmania Uni

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The Belgiorno-Nettis clan sold their waterfront Kirribilli penthouse for $3,665,000 at weekend auction, but have yet to sell their Clontarf holding.
The three-bedroom apartment with views over Careening Cove sold to a local couple through Sotheby’s International who had a $3.4 million guide.
<a href="https://www.sothebysrealty.com/eng/sales/detail/180-l-5004-qrf2kv/portovenere-clontarf-sw-2093" target="_blank">The families' redundant Clontarf beachfront compound</a>, Portovenere, which has been in the family since 1958, just before patriarch Franco Belgiorno-Nettis co-founded Transfield Services, has been listed too.
Portovenere’s Modernist architecture includes a striking pool overlooking Middle Harbour.
Sotheby’s International has a guide of $14 million for the 3668 square metre holding at 1-3 Amiens Road which is for sale by expressions of interest.
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The Belgiorno-Nettis clan sold their lower north shore apartment, but still seek buyers for their family estate

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GUEST OBSERVER
The dawn of Autumn brings a fresh round of listings to the residential market, as vendors who have been waiting patiently for the holiday season to conclude begin to put their property up for sale.
 Listings in February are up by 50% for houses, 9% for townhouses and 14% for apartments compared to last month, albeit coming from the lowest turnover month of the year.
Increased supply equates to more choice for buyers. While bidding at auctions was strong and nominal prices were higher than last year, many properties in the inner suburbs have seen a decrease in real values since February 2015.
Average house prices in the inner suburbs were down 2% over the rolling quarter. After adjusting for inflation, the worst performer was the inner North, with median prices consistently falling each month since October 2015. Brunswick, Brunswick East and North Melbourne are all on Secret Agent's bust list for three or more rolling quarters. At the other end of the market, real prices in the inner South are on par with the highest point reached in 2015. With only small sale volumes, this statistic might be exaggerated, but it is supported by the underlying trend of rising house prices in this region. 
South Melbourne and Port Melbourne are the best performers, each experiencing four and three consecutive rolling quarters of price growth, respectively.
<a href="/images/2016/03/4/Screen%20Shot%202016-03-04%20at%201.56.15%20PM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/03/4/Screen%20Shot%202016-03-04%20at%201.56.15%20PM.png" alt="">
Townhouses saw the biggest drop in price of all property types, down 4.5% over the past three months. This is great news for buyers, who were able to obtain more value for their money. The median price per square metre was down 16.5% to $6,300. Despite being well above the median price per square meter for houses, which currently sits at approximately $5,000 per square metre, this is well below the usual premium charged for the convenience townhouses offer to homeowners.
Apartments are the only market that saw a price increase this quarter compared to last, by nearly 2%. With mortgage rates still at an all-time low, many potential buyers are able to enter the market at the bottom end. Fitzroy is again on our apartment boom list, with Collingwood also joining as a high growth suburb in recent months. On the other hand, CBD apartments continue to fall in value, down 11% in real terms since this time last year. 
This trend is likely to continue as the year progresses and more supply is released to the market. The Melbourne CBD and Southbank areas have both experienced three rolling quarters of price decline. Secret Agent notes that precedents are still being broken at the higher quality end of the market. Our data does not accurately represent this part of the market and it needs to be considered from an observational perspective. Quality has been in short supply in the early parts of 2016. As a result, quality offerings are snapped up quickly once discovered by the general public.
The next few months will help set the tone for the rest of the year. The property market is highly topical at the moment with the expectation of a slow down in the economy. This could bring the debate of a potential bubble burst back into the public arena. However, the latest GDP figures show an economy that is still proving to be resilient. Over the coming months, Secret Agent intends to delve deeper into the economy and look at current expectations for the short to medium term.
Quarterly Scorecard
DEC 2015 - FEB 2016
<a href="/images/2016/03/3/Screen%20Shot%202016-03-03%20at%2012.56.27%20PM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/03/3/Screen%20Shot%202016-03-03%20at%2012.56.27%20PM.png" alt="" width="851" height="489">
For more information, <a href="https://secretagent.com.au" target="_blank">click here</a>.
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Melbourne February house listings up 50 percent from January: Secret Agent

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The REIV has released details on the suburbs with the top growth in median unit prices in the December Quarter 2015. 
<table dir="ltr" border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0">
<colgroup>
<col width="100">
<col width="100">
<col width="100">
<col width="100">
</colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"Suburb"]'>Suburb</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"Dec-15 Median"]'>Dec-15 Median</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"Sep-15 Median"]'>Sep-15 Median</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"Quarterly Change"]'>Quarterly Change</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"COBURG"]'>COBURG</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,540000]">$540,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,461000]">$461,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,3,"0.0%",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,0.171]">17.1%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"ST KILDA"]'>ST KILDA</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,530000]">$530,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,455000]">$455,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,3,"0.0%",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,0.165]">16.5%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"PRAHRAN"]'>PRAHRAN</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,555000]">$555,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,483000]">$483,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,3,"0.0%",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,0.149]">14.9%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"BALWYN"]'>BALWYN</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,892500]">$892,500</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,781000]">$781,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,3,"0.0%",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,0.143]">14.3%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"CLAYTON"]'>CLAYTON</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,622500]">$622,500</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,547500]">$547,500</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,3,"0.0%",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,0.137]">13.7%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"ELSTERNWICK"]'>ELSTERNWICK</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,589750]">$589,750</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,531000]">$531,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,3,"0.0%",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,0.111]">11.1%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"MOUNT WAVERLEY"]'>MOUNT WAVERLEY</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,795000]">$795,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,727500]">$727,500</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,3,"0.0%",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,0.093]">9.3%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"BRIGHTON EAST"]'>BRIGHTON EAST</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,1005000]">$1,005,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,925000]">$925,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,3,"0.0%",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,0.086]">8.6%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"MELBOURNE"]'>MELBOURNE</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,497500]">$497,500</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,460000]">$460,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,3,"0.0%",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,0.082]">8.2%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"RINGWOOD"]'>RINGWOOD</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,502500]">$502,500</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,465000]">$465,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,3,"0.0%",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,0.081]">8.1%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"FRANKSTON"]'>FRANKSTON</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,336000]">$336,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,312000]">$312,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,3,"0.0%",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,0.077]">7.7%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"BENTLEIGH"]'>BENTLEIGH</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,890000]">$890,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,828750]">$828,750</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,3,"0.0%",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,0.074]">7.4%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"MENTONE"]'>MENTONE</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,556000]">$556,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,520000]">$520,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,3,"0.0%",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,0.069]">6.9%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"FITZROY"]'>FITZROY</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,660000]">$660,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,617500]">$617,500</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,3,"0.0%",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,0.069]">6.9%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"BRUNSWICK"]'>BRUNSWICK</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,504750]">$504,750</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,472500]">$472,500</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,3,"0.0%",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,0.068]">6.8%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"GLENROY"]'>GLENROY</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,445000]">$445,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,418000]">$418,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,3,"0.0%",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,0.065]">6.5%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"CHELTENHAM"]'>CHELTENHAM</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,605000]">$605,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,570000]">$570,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,3,"0.0%",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,0.061]">6.1%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"NORTH MELBOURNE"]'>NORTH MELBOURNE</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,548500]">$548,500</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,518500]">$518,500</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,3,"0.0%",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,0.058]">5.8%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"ST KILDA EAST"]'>ST KILDA EAST</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,555000]">$555,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,526250]">$526,250</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,3,"0.0%",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,0.055]">5.5%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"NOBLE PARK"]'>NOBLE PARK</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,372500]">$372,500</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,353750]">$353,750</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,3,"0.0%",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,0.053]">5.3%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
Only suburbs with at least 25 sales in the relevant quarter are included.
Property Observer went looking for recent unit sales in Victoria's Coburg around the median price and came up with a few:
<img src="/images/2016/03/3/image8.jpg" alt="" width="671" height="503">
1. A three-bedroom apartment at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-coburg-121309090" target="_blank">103C/41-43 Stockade Avenue</a> (above) sold in December for $514,750 
 <img src="/images/2016/03/3/Screen%20Shot%202016-03-03%20at%204.45.12%20PM.png" alt="" width="609" height="370">
2. A two-bedroom unit at <a href="https://realestateview.com.au/real-estate/30-shaftsbury-street-coburg-vic/property-details-sold-residential-9411030" target="_blank">7/30 Shaftsbury Street</a> was sold for $553,000.
</body></html>

Coburg apartments top median price growth: REIV

Two apartments have sold for more than $10 million at EADE Byron Bay, setting some of the highest apartment prices ever achieved in the coastal town and underlining the growing appetite for luxury beachfront apartments in Australia's most popular coastal locations.

The $210 million project by Vitale Property Group has now secured more than $70 million in sales, led by residences that changed hands for $12.75 million and $11.75 million.

The record-breaking transactions reinforce the shift occurring in Byron Bay's premium property market, where affluent downsizers and lifestyle buyers are increasingly opting for high-end apartments over large beachfront homes.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/eade-byron-bay-29-shirley-street-byron-bay-nsw-2481">EADE Byron Bay</a> occupies a rare 6,000 sqm absolute beachfront site on the corner of Shirley and Milton Streets overlooking Main Beach and The Wreck surf break, just 350 metres from Byron Bay's town centre.

The 25-residence development is the first beachfront apartment project approved in Byron Bay in more than a decade and is currently under construction, with completion expected in May 2027.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145590 project_image_fid=359521]

The project has attracted a mix of local Byron Shire residents downsizing from larger homes, alongside interstate buyers from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane seeking a permanent coastal lifestyle without compromising on space.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hayball">Hayball</a> and with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/alexander-co">Alexander &amp; Co</a>, EADE comprises&nbsp;10 garden apartments ranging from 284 sqm to 622 sqm, nine with private pools, five full-floor apartments and 10 rooftop residences with private plunge pools, expansive outdoor entertaining areas and uninterrupted ocean views.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145590 project_image_fid=359527]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/vitale-property-group">Vitale Property Group</a> Managing Partner Chris Vitale said the project's combination of scale, location and limited future supply was driving buyer demand.

"There isn't another beachfront holding in Byron Bay of this size and position that could be developed again," Vitale said.

"Buyers are responding to the scarcity and the irreplaceability of a site of this calibre and to floorplans they can't find elsewhere in the market.

"We are seeing buyers place significant value on quality, space, design, resort-style amenities and the rarity of the location. The sales achieved to date demonstrate that discerning purchasers recognise the long-term significance of what is being created at EADE Byron Bay.

"Many are coming from larger homes in the Byron region, or from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, and are after the space, security and convenience, without the upkeep of a house."

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145590 project_image_fid=359523]

The Byron Bay project follows Vitale Property Group's delivery of the Mondrian Hotel and Private Residences at Burleigh Heads, with EADE continuing the developer's focus on luxury coastal developments.

Residents will have access to a resort-style swimming pool, gymnasium, sauna, cold plunge pool, concierge services and dedicated workspaces, while the project is targeting an 8-Star Green Star rating.

EADE Byron Bay is being exclusively marketed by Projx Australia in conjunction with WHITEFOX Projects.

WHITEFOX National Projects Director Phillip Rand said demand had been driven predominantly by owner-occupiers.

"We are seeing buyers at EADE place significant value on quality, space, design, resort-style amenities and the rarity of this location," Rand says.

"The sales achieved to date demonstrate that purchasers at this level recognise the long-term significance of what is being created at EADE Byron Bay."

Residences at EADE Byron Bay are currently priced between $4.75 million and $15.95 million.

&nbsp;

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[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=145590]

Joel Robinson

Vitale breaks Byron Bay records with EADE sales flurry 

When buying an apartment, most people compare the big-ticket items first. Floorplans. Kitchens. Balcony size. Natural light. The view.

But there's one everyday consideration that often doesn't come up until after moving in: how parcels are delivered.

As online shopping has become part of everyday life, parcel deliveries have shifted from an occasional event to a regular occurrence. Australians spent a record $82.6 billion shopping online in 2025, with almost one in every four retail dollars now spent digitally.

For apartment residents, that can present a challenge.

If nobody is home to accept a delivery, parcels may be redirected to a nearby Post Office, left in a building lobby or common area, or require building management to step in. In higher-density buildings, where dozens or even hundreds of residents may receive deliveries each day, parcel management has become an increasingly important part of everyday living.

That can create a range of frustrations. A missed delivery often means making time to collect a parcel elsewhere, while packages left unattended in foyers or mail areas can create clutter and increase the risk of theft. What seems like a minor inconvenience can quickly become a recurring issue for residents who shop online regularly.

It's one of those details that rarely features in a display suite but can have a noticeable impact once residents move in.

As a result, buyers are beginning to look beyond traditional apartment features and consider how a building supports day-to-day convenience, including whether there are secure options for receiving deliveries.

Australia Post's Parcel Lockers provide one solution.

<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/CkF2oKmlACg?si=C50sDaoUUn2nuLmq" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Rather than having a parcel delivered directly to an apartment, eligible deliveries can be sent to a nominated Parcel Locker. Once the parcel arrives, residents receive a notification through the AusPost app or SMS and can collect it using a QR code or one-time PIN at a time that suits them.

The Parcel Locker network now includes more than 1,500 locations nationwide, with installations at Post Offices, shopping centres, transport hubs and an increasing number of residential developments. By providing a secure collection point, Parcel Lockers help reduce missed deliveries and avoid parcels being left unattended in common areas.

For developers, parcel infrastructure is becoming another way to improve the resident experience. Rather than relying on concierge staff or leaving parcels in communal spaces, secure collection points help streamline deliveries while preserving the presentation and functionality of shared areas.

For buyers, it's a reminder that the best apartment features aren't always the most obvious.

A generous floorplan or quality finishes might help narrow the shortlist, but the conveniences that simplify everyday life, whether that's EV charging, secure bike storage or reliable parcel delivery, often become the features residents appreciate most once they're living there.

The apartment feature many buyers don't think about, until their first missed delivery

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/hg-developments">HG Developments</a> is doubling down on Maud Street in Newstead, filing plans for a new apartment tower just a few doors down from its under-construction Aire Newstead development.

Recently submitted to Brisbane City Council, the proposal is for an 18-storey building designed by bureau^proberts, which has drawn heavily on Brisbane's subtropical design principles while referencing the suburb's industrial heritage.

A total of 64 apartments are planned for the amalgamated 1,518 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/17-21-maud-street-newstead-qld-4006">17–21 Maud Street</a>, a short walk from the Brisbane River and Newstead Riverwalk.

<img alt="First look: HG Developments plans 18-storey subtropical apartment tower for Newstead" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a400c7fd-bd15-48f8-a63b-10ede92efe00" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Maud%20st%20bldg.png?VersionId=.0vPmjpbC7CNP7kqGWa6L7rGIwsNExaw" />

"The building is defined by a series of vaulted motifs that reinterpret the arches, colonnades and layered facades evident throughout Newstead's historic built fabric," the Urban Design Report states.

"Combined with recessed glazing and generous balconies, these elements create a layered building envelope that provides shade, weather protection and opportunities for natural ventilation whilst establishing a distinctive architectural identity."

The proposal comprises 64 two, three and four-bedroom apartments across 18 residential levels, positioning it alongside a growing number of taller residential projects transforming Newstead's northern precinct. The tower incorporates extensive subtropical landscaping, with cascading planter boxes, deep planting at street level and a landscaped rooftop recreation area.

<img alt="First look: HG Developments plans 18-storey subtropical apartment tower for Newstead" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1d8140f4-8b98-45cd-b1b8-1efe8c8e266b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Maud%20st%20podium.png?VersionId=VAZtbCoD44YCJ57N99fQCAKeSJx7ldZs" />

Bureau Proberts has prioritised passive environmental design throughout the project, with generous balconies, recessed glazing and operable façades helping reduce solar heat gain while maximising natural ventilation. River views become available from the upper levels, while the building has been orientated to capture prevailing breezes from both the Brisbane River and the west.

The architects say landscape is intended to be integral to the building rather than an applied element.

"Vertical greenery, cascading planter boxes and elevated gardens are woven throughout the architecture, softening the built form and strengthening the connection between residents and the subtropical environment."

"Through the integration of landscape, high-quality materials and passive design principles, the development delivers a refined residential address that celebrates Newstead's heritage character while contributing positively to Brisbane's evolving subtropical identity."

Newstead has remained one of Brisbane's most active apartment markets in recent years, with a number of developers continuing to back the inner-city suburb.

HG Developments is currently delivering the 40-apartment Aire Newstead at 25 Maud Street. Fortis recently launched the 65-apartment <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/crest-walker-newstead-12-kyabra-street-newstead-qld-4006">Crest &amp; Walker</a> on Kyabra Street, while builder-developer BPG and Don O'Rorke's Consolidated Properties are both expected to launch their respective Newstead projects before the end of the year.

HG Developments doubles down in Newstead with second Maud Street apartment development

Walk past a new apartment development promoting its sustainability credentials and it's easy to picture rooftop gardens, mature trees, landscaped courtyards and residents surrounded by nature.

But in many cases, that's not actually what those sustainability ratings guarantee.

Australia's leading environmental rating tools have played a significant role in improving the energy efficiency and environmental performance of buildings. Yet despite their focus on reducing emissions, many don't require developers to include trees, biodiversity or meaningful green space.

In other words, a building can achieve one of the country's highest sustainability ratings while containing little more than concrete, glass and hard landscaping.

That disconnect has led to the emergence of a new movement across Australia's property industry: nature-based cities.

The concept goes beyond designing buildings that consume less energy. Instead, it encourages developers to treat nature as essential infrastructure, integrating biodiversity, tree canopy, living landscapes and green spaces into projects from the earliest stages of planning.

Research has consistently linked access to nature with better physical and mental health, cooler neighbourhoods, improved biodiversity, stronger climate resilience and more connected communities. As Australia's cities continue to become denser, advocates say those outcomes should be considered just as important as energy efficiency.

Nature Based Cities (NBC) was established in 2022 to help accelerate that shift.

Founded by Hamton Executive Chairman Paul Hameister OAM, the not-for-profit was created after research highlighted a significant gap in Australia's sustainability framework. While existing environmental rating tools rewarded energy performance and emissions reductions, they placed little emphasis on the inclusion of living landscapes.

"We've always wanted to do more, and we know other developers who want to do more, but the ESD rating tools just aren't there," Hameister says.

"In Australia, you can have a five-green-star rated building that's concrete and glass with not a blade of grass.

"The focus is on reducing emissions, which is laudable, but there hasn't been enough attention paid to protecting and re-establishing nature. We need both for the health of the environment and for communities."

Since its launch, NBC has developed independent design guidelines and accreditation frameworks that encourage developers to prioritise ecology, biodiversity, tree canopy, walkability and living landscapes alongside traditional sustainability measures. The organisation first focused on medium and high-density residential developments before recently expanding into precinct-scale communities and masterplanned neighbourhoods.

Jan Talacko, founder of sustainability consultancy Ark Resources and a member of the Nature Based Cities Advisory Council, says the initiative addresses an area that has largely been overlooked by the property industry.

"Throughout my 25 years of working collaboratively with all stakeholders in the property sector, I've always favoured a pragmatic approach to sustainable design which encourages initiatives that not only meet environmental expectations but also improve amenity," Talacko says.

"Whilst we are making steady progress in relation to energy and carbon emissions from buildings, there has been much less emphasis on encouraging biodiversity and tackling the urban heat island effect.

"The Nature Based Cities initiative responds to a gap in the suite of tools currently used by the property development sector, which don't provide sufficient incentive, or recognition, for the integration of landscaping and greenery."

For apartment buyers, the shift is also changing the questions worth asking.

Rather than assuming a sustainable building will naturally include abundant green space, buyers are increasingly being encouraged to look beyond environmental ratings and ask what nature is actually being delivered. How much tree canopy will the development create? Has biodiversity been considered? Are landscaped spaces designed for people as well as appearance?

As Australia's cities continue to grow upwards and outwards, the next generation of sustainability may not simply be measured by lower emissions, but by how successfully developments bring nature back into everyday urban life.

What does it really mean for a building to be 'green'?

A who's who of Australian surfing, business and entertainment has emerged on title records following the completion of Esprit Rainbow Bay, the latest boutique beachfront apartment development by former professional surfer Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects.

The completed project has attracted an enviable collection of owners, many with long-standing ties to the southern Gold Coast and the surf culture that has helped define Rainbow Bay and neighbouring Kirra for generations.

Given Gedoun's own background in surfing, it perhaps comes as little surprise that some of Australia's most recognisable surfers have chosen to buy into the development overlooking one of the country's most celebrated stretches of coastline.

Pezet Matheson directors Jayde Pezet and Todd Matheson launched the project in late 2021, and have managed the sales campaign all the way through to its sell-out and recent completion.

<img alt="Esprit" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="08fc6261-b84e-4b09-8a44-66d3067fd0d1" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-29%20at%208.51.05%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=4AOcb6ETZwNUnMPdTtz1B3pZAIB_jgZ2" />

Former world champion Mick Fanning, who grew up in Coolangatta, secured an apartment in 2023. He paid&nbsp;$2.07 million. Last year he sold his Bilinga home for over $16 million.

Three-time world champion Joel Parkinson also purchased in the development, alongside big wave surfer Mark Mathews. Mathews bought the most expensive apartment in the building, spending just over $4 million.

Joining them is Rip Curl founder Doug Warbrick, whose company helped shape Australia's global surfing industry over the past five decades.

The appeal of Rainbow Bay has extended well beyond the surfing community.

International DJ Paul Fisher purchased an apartment through his investment vehicle, YLB Developments, an abbreviation of his trademark phrase "You Little Beauty".

The purchase comes as Fisher and his wife Chloe are developing their own luxury apartment project further north in Palm Beach. Their boutique beachfront development, Pescado, comprises just seven apartments on Jefferson Lane, which start from just shy of $6 million. The couple intend to retain the two-level penthouse as their Australian base between international touring commitments.

Melbourne Storm coach Craig Bellamy and his wife Wendy have also invested in Esprit, purchasing two apartments after spending decades holidaying on the southern Gold Coast. They also have a luxury apartment in Joe Adsett's Rockpool, less than 400m away from Esprit.

<h2>Boutique project draws owner-occupiers</h2>

Esprit launched in 2021 and sold strongly, with buyers drawn to its boutique scale, beachfront position and contemporary design.

The completed development comprises 94 apartments across 11 levels, offering expansive floorplans designed primarily for owner-occupiers rather than the investor market.

Crowning the building is Club Esprit, pitched as being the Gold Coast's first residential rooftop wellness centre. The roof features a&nbsp;25 metre magnesium lap pool, which is surrounded by wet daybeds and poolside cabanas,&nbsp;multiple barbecue areas,&nbsp;a yoga and relaxation play lawn, and a private dining room with a kitchen scullery, bar, lounges, and an outdoor terrace.

The wellness centre is&nbsp;fully equipped with a Technogym, ice bath, infra-red sauna, steam room, thermal room, and treatment room. The roof has views spanning&nbsp;Rainbow Bay, Snapper Rocks and the Pacific Ocean.

<h2>S&amp;S Projects continues to shape Rainbow Bay</h2>

S&amp;S Projects founder Paul Gedoun has become one of the key figures behind Rainbow Bay's evolution over the past several years.

After establishing S&amp;S Projects, Gedoun has focused on delivering lifestyle-driven apartment developments designed primarily for owner-occupiers seeking a permanent coastal home.

Esprit is Gedoun's third completed project in Rainbow Bay, following Flow and Awaken, both of which achieved record prices for the suburb.

He is now delivering <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/radia-rainbow-bay-271-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Radia Rainbow Bay</a>, a 38-apartment development on Boundary Street that is currently selling, and has no plans to leave the precinct anytime soon. S&amp;S Projects has also lodged plans for its fifth Rainbow Bay development, an 88-apartment project on Boundary Street featuring a strong wellness focus.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-s-s-projects-proposes-88-apartment-wellness-tower-at-coolangattas-boundary-street">First look: S&amp;S Projects proposes 88-apartment wellness tower at Coolangatta's Boundary Street</a>

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&nbsp;

Jonathan Chancellor

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