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Channel 9 sports commentator and former World Surfing Champion legend Mark Warren and his wife Helen have secured $2,435,000 for their northern beaches home.

Their renovated North Avalon home with vaulted bamboo ceilings sold through LJ Hooker Palm Beach’s David Edwards who was suggesting $2 million plus for the home in North Avalon's so-called golden triangle.

Set two minutes walk to the beach and rockpool, the home sits on a <a href="https://palmbeach.ljhooker.com.au/35AF6Z/15-harley-rd-avalon-beach" target="_blank">level 930-square-metre Harley Road block</a> with tropical gardens. Its kitchen was designed by Brian Boaler.

The empty nest couple, who will downsize locally, bought it for $365,000 in 1995.

This article was first published in the Saturday Daily Telegraph. 

<h2>NSW properties now selling:</h2>

[smartcode_project:default project_id=24323]

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7317]

 
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Surfing champion Mark Warren sells on northern beaches

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The Reardon family have sold their 23-hectare Gundagai estate, Spillbury after 163 years ownership.
It sold to a South Coast dairy farmer at $1.48 million with five register parties at the Webster Nolan Real Estate auction.
The property at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-livestock-nsw-gundagai-7766721" target="_blank">307 Burra Road</a> property has been used as a prime lamb-fattening block and running angus cattle for the past 15 years.
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Spillbury, Gundagai sold after 163 years

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GUEST OBSERVER
Three-quarters of parents expect to make a contribution towards their adult child’s first property purchase, according to a registrant survey for our upcoming webinar, How to advise adult children about property.
Helping out with the deposit is the preferred route for 6 out of 10 parents, whilst 1 in 10 is considering helping their offspring pay the mortgage.  Just 6% of parents would go as far as buying the property on their child’s behalf.
Investment properties shade homes as the preferred first property. 35% of parents are considering an investment property compared to 27% looking for a home. But many remain open-minded, with 38% unsure whether to go for a home or an investment property.
Parents appear to prefer a house as the first home whilst apartments are more favoured amongst investor-focused parents.
Respondents voiced a number of fears around helping their children out.
The most cited was a breakdown in the relationship between their child and his or her spouse and the estranged partner making a claim on the parents’ gift. Parents also worry about encouraging a child to buy a property that fails to perform and also about ensuring all their children are treated equally.
Finally, some parents are concerned that their child won’t take the financial commitment seriously.
Paul Nugent is a director of Wakelin Property Advisory. He is co-presenting a webinar How to advise adult children about property 12.30pm, Thursday 29th October. <a href="https://wakelin.com.au/fpb_webinar" target="_blank">Click here to register.</a>
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House or apartment investment quandary facing parents: Wakelin's Paul Nugent

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Melbourne’s median apartment price rose 2.6% in the September quarter to $532,000, according to the REIV. 
REIV CEO Enzo Raimondo said there was currently a range of commentary around market movement however while the market was cyclical, it was in an upward trend at this time.
Property Observer went 'house hunting' based on the median range and found seven units, with the Richmond suburb dominating the list.
Here's the list, with a couple of units from Richmond first. 
1. This one-bedroom New York 'warehouse style' apartment created by architects Jackson Clements Burrows (above)  sits at <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/17-8-lord-street-richmond/Property-Details-buy-residential-9668646" target="_blank">17/8 Lord Street</a>, Richmond. It is being auctioned on November 7 with upwards of $500,000 suggested by listing agents Andrew Crotty and Claire Parkes of Biggin &amp; Scott.
2. This two-bedroom apartment on <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/9-8-hull-street-richmond/Property-Details-buy-residential-9676578" target="_blank">9/8 Hull Street</a>, Richmond is within walking distance to Yarra Park and the MCG. It is being auctioned on November 7 with a $500,000-$550,000 price range through listing agents Grant Wallace and Edward Lloyd of hockingstuart.    
3. Moving on from Richmond to St Kilda, this two-bedroom unit set in a boutique block of six at <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/3-29-chapel-street-st-kilda/Property-Details-buy-residential-9702754" target="_blank">3/29 Chapel Street</a> is up for auction in a $490k - $530k price range on November 14. The listing is by Steve Feren and Melina Scriva of Hodges.
4. Located at <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/4-52-barton-street-surrey-hills/Property-Details-buy-residential-9689202" target="_blank">4/52 Barton Street, Surry Hills</a>, this two-bedroom unit is on auction for upwards of $520,000. The listing is by Tim Heavyside and Rick Volpi of Fletchers on November 14.
5. Blue bay views and a north-facing balcony terrace characterise this two-bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/4-323-beach-road-black-rock/Property-Details-buy-residential-9669438" target="_blank">4/323 Beach Road, Black Rock</a>. The auction is on November 14 with a $500,000-$550,000 price range and the agents are Nick Jones and Simone Tindall of Chisholm &amp; Gamon Property.
6. A two-bedroom unit with views of the city's skyline at <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/5-661-malvern-road-toorak/Property-Details-buy-residential-9622102" target="_blank">5/661 Malvern Road, Toorak</a> goes under the hammer for $520,000 - $570,000 on October 31. The selling agents are Nick Gatacre and Joel Finkelstein of hockingstuart.
7. A two-bedroom apartment at <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/9-41-moreland-street-footscray/Property-Details-buy-residential-9575344" target="_blank">9/41 Moreland Street, Footscray</a> auctioned last weekend with estimates upwards of $490,000 through Gerard Hannan of Village Real Estate. But it failed to sell. 
<table dir="ltr" border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"Metro Melbourne"]'>Metro Melbourne</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"Sep-15 Quarter"]'>Sep-15 Quarter</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"Quarterly change"]'>Quarterly change</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"Jun-15 Quarter"]'>Jun-15 Quarter</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"Annual change"]'>Annual change</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"House"]'>House</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,729500]">$729,500</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,3,"0.0%",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,0.045]">4.5%</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,698000]">$698,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,3,"0.0%",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,0.082]">8.2%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"Unit"]'>Unit</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,532000]">$532,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,3,"0.0%",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,0.026]">2.6%</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,518500]">$518,500</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,3,"0.0%",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,0.051]">5.1%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td> </td>
<td> </td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,3,"0.0%",1]'> </td>
<td> </td>
<td> </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"Inner"]'>Inner</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"Sep-15 Quarter"]'>Sep-15 Quarter</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,3,"0.0%",1]' data-sheets-value='[null,2,"Quarterly change"]'>Quarterly change</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"Jun-15 Quarter"]'>Jun-15 Quarter</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"Annual change"]'>Annual change</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"House"]'>House</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,1236000]">$1,236,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,3,"0.0%",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,-0.002]">-0.2%</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,1239000]">$1,239,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,3,"0.0%",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,0.175]">17.5%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"Unit"]'>Unit</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,560000]">$560,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,3,"0.0%",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,0.024]">2.4%</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,547000]">$547,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,3,"0.0%",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,0.024]">2.4%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td> </td>
<td> </td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,3,"0.0%",1]'> </td>
<td> </td>
<td> </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"Middle"]'>Middle</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"Sep-15 Quarter"]'>Sep-15 Quarter</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,3,"0.0%",1]' data-sheets-value='[null,2,"Quarterly change"]'>Quarterly change</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"Jun-15 Quarter"]'>Jun-15 Quarter</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"Annual change"]'>Annual change</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"House"]'>House</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,861000]">$861,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,3,"0.0%",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,0.044]">4.4%</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,825000]">$825,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,3,"0.0%",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,0.136]">13.6%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"Unit"]'>Unit</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,586500]">$586,500</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,3,"0.0%",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,0.017]">1.7%</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,576500]">$576,500</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,3,"0.0%",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,0.088]">8.8%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td> </td>
<td> </td>
<td> </td>
<td> </td>
<td> </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"Outer"]'>Outer</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"Sep-15 Quarter"]'>Sep-15 Quarter</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"Quarterly change"]'>Quarterly change</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"Jun-15 Quarter"]'>Jun-15 Quarter</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"Annual change"]'>Annual change</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"House"]'>House</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,550500]">$550,500</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,3,"0.0%",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,0.051]">5.1%</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,524000]">$524,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,3,"0.0%",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,0.079]">7.9%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"Unit"]'>Unit</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,415500]">$415,500</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,3,"0.0%",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,0.039]">3.9%</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,400000]">$400,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,3,"0.0%",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,0.052]">5.2%</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
 Note: All quarterly median prices are seasonally adjusted and quarterly. Annual change is based on rolling annual figures. 
 
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Apartments on offer at Melbourne's $532,000 median on realestateview.com.au

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The moves by the CBA, NAB and ANZ to hike their variable mortgage rates, following Westpac, add further pressure on the RBA to cut its official cash rate to offset the flow on to households with mortgages, according to Shane Oliver, the chief economist at AMP Capital.
"While the RBA looks like it doesn’t want to have to cut rates again, it won’t want to see households with a mortgage paying higher rates just now either, given the risk this will pose to consumer spending at a time when economic growth is still weak.
"So we remain of the view the RBA should, and ultimately will, cut rates again to ensure that this does not happen.
'We have pencilled in a 0.25% rate cut at the November meeting, but the RBA may need more convincing and so there is a risk it could be delayed into early next year. 
The AMP Capital chart shows the relationship between variable mortgage rates and the RBA’s official cash rate.
"Clearly the gap between the two has been expanding since the GFC supposedly due to “rising bank funding costs” as banks first had to rely more on bank deposits and now have to run higher capital ratios."
The widening gap applies for standard or discount variable rates.
"Because it’s borrowing rates that ultimately count for the economy rather than the cash rate, the RBA has had to compensate by cutting the cash rate more than would normally be the case in both the 2008-09 easing cycle and since 2011," Shane Oliver suggested.
"Although the chart doesn’t show it, we expect the RBA to do the same this time around as well."
<a href="/images/2015/10/26/20151025-mortgagerates_normal.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2015/10/26/20151025-mortgagerates_normal.jpg" alt="">
 
Source: RBA, AMP Capital. For illustration chart assumes cash rate stays at 2% in Nov.
Shane Oliver said the minutes from the RBA’s last meeting added nothing new and confirmed that the RBA was content with current interest rate settings.
"However, with the big banks hiking their variable mortgage rates, resulting in a de facto monetary tightening, the minutes are now a bit dated," he said.
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Gap between variable mortgage rates and RBA cash rate grows: Shane Oliver

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Details on the sale of Tongy Station, the 4,637 ha property located in northern NSW at Merriwa, have started to emerge.
Property Observer <a href="/news/tongy-station-merriwa-under-offer">reported last week it was under offer</a> having been offered with $20 million plus hopes. The bush telegraph suggests close to $24 million.
Its buyer has been confirmed as an Sydney investor, amidst strong competition from across Australia and abroad, selling agent, Richard Royle of Colliers International said.
“The buyers, who wish to remain confidential, are a Sydney family with existing rural interests in Australia. It will provide the new owners with an enviable lifestyle and a premium agricultural asset.” 
“We conducted 27 inspections over the five week campaign, and received 13 offers.
"Some  85% of the offers submitted were from domestic buyers, however, we experienced interest from across the globe, ranging from wealthy individuals, to family offices, companies and funds.“
The talk is it has stayed within the establishment family, a familial buyer.
Tongy Station, professionaly managed by Mutual Trust who also assisted with the sale, dates back to the 1820’s, when Richard Fitzgerald, an ex-convict who arrived on the third fleet in 1791, was lead to Tongy by local Aborigines. 
In 1825 he was granted freehold title of Tongy by Governor Bourke for his services to the colony through Agricultural management. W. L. Baillieu, relative to one of the oldest families in Victoria, purchased Tongy in the 1920’s from Richard Fitzgerald’s five granddaughters and it has remained in the Baillieu family ever since. 
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Familiar Sydney pastoral investor buys Tongy Station at Merriwa

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The Doughboy Mountain cattle farm in the New England district has been listed by Salter family for November 20 auction.
The farm is redundant to the Angus breeding business started by Salmat marketing company co-founder, Phil Salter in 2007 when Towal Creek Station on the Macleay River on the mid-north coast was bought. 
Consisting of 1,350 hectares between Armidale and Ebor, <a href="https://landmarkharcourts.com.au/Property/628384/LBT2973/2224-Wongwibinda-Road" target="_blank">Doughboy Mountain</a> runs pasture fed quality black Angus with carefully chosen genetics.
With lush paddocks on the Wongwibinda road, Landmark Harcourts Boulton Walcha agent Bruce Rutherford says its an opportunity to purchase the highly regarded property at a time when analysts predict increasing pressure on world food reserves and much higher returns in agriculture.
The farm was bought in 2010 at $6.9 million from the Wright family.
This article was first published in the Sunday Telegraph. 
 
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Doughboy Mountain listed by Salter black angus breeders

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Stockland has reported its residential sales remained robust with a further 1,557 net deposits for the latest quarter, with project release timing in Sydney especially influencing the result.
First quarter deposits combined with the deposits already on hand at the end of FY15, totalled 5,299.
The majority will settle in FY16, with the balance in FY17, managing director Mark Steinert said.
The listed property group was very well placed to achieve its target of 6000 residential settlements this year.
“This result provides a high level of confidence for our earnings outlook this financial year and confirms that the markets where we operate remain healthy, underpinned by 73% owner occupier demand,” Mr Steinert said.
Its offshore buyers continue to represent less than 1% of net deposits.
“Residential markets around the country are at different stages, however, our active projects are generally well placed in high demand, low supply corridors.
“In line with our previous commentary, we expect markets in Sydney and inner Melbourne will moderate with a more normalised level of growth.
"Brisbane is showing improvement, Melbourne growth corridors remain sound and Perth has continued to slow as anticipated.
“We remain confident we are well placed for these conditions and will continue to capitalise on strong demand for our differentiated and affordable offerings.
"Our new projects continue to strengthen our returns with operating profit margins over 14%.
Stockland launched two new residential projects in the first quarter -<a href="https://cityofcolour.com/vision/overview" target="_blank"> Aura on the Sunshine Coast</a>, the largest project in Australia under single ownership, which has attracted over 900 leads since launching earlier this month.
Stockland’s first stand-alone medium density project, <a href="https://www.stockland.com.au/residential/vic/arve/" target="_blank">Arve in Ivanhoe Melbourne,</a> (pictured above) is already 80% pre-sold. 
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Owner occupiers running at 73% for strong Stockland residential sales

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The Wakelin Property Advisory is not convinced there will be a huge switch of investors from Sydney to Melbourne off the back of a softening Sydney market. 
“The Sydney slowdown isn’t causing our phones to ring off the hook with Sydney investors looking at the Melbourne market," Paul Nugent told Fairfax Media this week.
"Investors in these two cities tend to stick with their home town. 
"Melbourne may benefit at Sydney’s expense more from investors from other parts of Australia and overseas looking to invest in residential property in a major Australian capital city," he suggested.
“Although we expect Melbourne’s growth will be quite modest in coming months off the back of unusually strong spring and early summer supply, there does seem to be enough energy in the market to suggest Melbourne will replace struggling Sydney as the ‘growth’ capital for the next few months.”
Melbourne buyers advocate Richard Wakelin recently advised clients the Melbourne CBD could stand for Could Be Dangerous - especially when buying highrise, non-descript, cookie-cutter units.
Paul Nugent of Wakelin Property Advisory and Stuart Wemyss of ProSolution Private Clients will discuss strategies for young adults to enter the property market in an upcoming webinar.
The one-hour webinar starts at 12.30pm on Thursday 29 October. You can register <a href="https://wakelin.com.au/fpb_webinar" target="_blank">here</a>.
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No switch between Sydney and Melbourne foreseen: Wakelin

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Melbourne notched up a clearance rate of 71% on the weekend compared to 73% last weekend.
The 71% matched the same weekend last year, <a href="/news">according to the REIV</a>.
There were 1358 auctions reported to the REIV, with some 1600 plus results to make the full weekend tally. 
Next weekend, the REIV is expecting 550 auctions – the highest ever for any Melbourne Cup Day weekend and more than double the number of auctions held last year.
 
Most Auctions – Melbourne (year to October 23):
<table class="t1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
Suburb
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
Total Auction
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
Sold at auction
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
Clearance rate
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
RESERVOIR
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
525
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
380
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
72%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
RICHMOND
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
411
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
329
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
80%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
GLEN WAVERLEY
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
403
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
317
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
79%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
MOUNT WAVERLEY
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
388
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
325
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
84%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
SOUTH YARRA
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
373
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
274
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
74%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
ST KILDA
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
363
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
258
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
71%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
BENTLEIGH EAST
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
332
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
272
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
82%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
KEW
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
311
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
239
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
77%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
GLEN IRIS
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
310
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
268
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
87%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
BALWYN NORTH
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
300
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
243
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
81%
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
Biggest increase in auctions (year to date comparison):
 
<table class="t1" style="height: 384px; width: 961px;" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
 
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
2015 YTD
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
2014 YTD
</td>
<td class="td1" colspan="3" valign="middle">
 
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
Suburb
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
Total Auction
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
Clearance Rate
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
Total Auction
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
Clearance Rate
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
Auction Increase
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
WANTIRNA SOUTH
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
151
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
88%
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
65
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
89%
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
86
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
GREENSBOROUGH
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
186
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
89%
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
107
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
75%
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
79
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
MOUNT WAVERLEY
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
388
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
84%
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
310
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
84%
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
78
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
GLEN WAVERLEY
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
403
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
79%
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
335
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
82%
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
68
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
BLACKBURN
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
199
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
80%
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
133
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
84%
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
66
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
BURWOOD
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
181
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
77%
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
121
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
80%
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
60
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
LALOR
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
186
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
71%
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
129
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
59%
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
57
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
CRAIGIEBURN
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
247
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
68%
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
191
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
69%
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
56
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
NOBLE PARK
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
188
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
81%
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
135
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
69%
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
53
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
ELTHAM
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
124
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
78%
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
72
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
75%
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="middle">
52
 
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
Source: <a href="https://www.reiv.com.au/home" target="_blank">REIV</a>
</body></html>

Melbourne keeps auction success in its 70% plus spring carnival stride: REIV

The Gold Coast economy has grown by 25 per cent since 2020/21 to surpass $55 billion, but perhaps the more significant story is what sits behind the headline number.

For decades, the Gold Coast has been viewed through the lens of tourism, lifestyle and population growth. The latest State of the City Report suggests that perception is increasingly out of step with reality.

Released by Invest Gold Coast, the report ranks the Gold Coast as Australia's largest non-capital city economy and, perhaps more notably, second nationally behind Sydney for Economic Complexity, a measure that assesses the diversity and sophistication of an economy.

It's a result that places the Gold Coast ahead of Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide, highlighting the extent to which the city's economic base has broadened beyond its traditional industries.

Today, the Gold Coast supports more than 350,000 jobs, is home to over 83,000 businesses and generates $19 billion in annual exports. Manufacturing now accounts for 62 per cent of international export growth, while sectors including health, education, advanced manufacturing, technology and professional services are becoming increasingly important contributors to the local economy.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=372547]

Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate said the report confirmed the city's evolution into one of Australia's most significant economies.

"The Gold Coast economy continues to grow at an incredible pace. This is no surprise to those of us who have watched the evolution up close," Mayor Tate said.

"As one of the most entrepreneurial, investment driven and opportunity focused economies in the country our ambition has been realised and possibilities are endless.

"The Gold Coast has built a reputation as the city that says yes. We say yes to investment, yes to opportunity and yes to people who want to build something.

"It's this mindset helping us drive major growth across health, advanced manufacturing, screen production, marine, technology and the knowledge economy."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149670 project_image_fid=360975]

While population growth has been one of the defining stories of the past decade, the report points to a broader economic transformation taking place.

The city's knowledge economy now contributes $7.9 billion annually and supports around 31,000 jobs, while the health and wellbeing sector contributes $5.2 billion and employs more than 42,000 people. Together, the six priority sectors identified in the report account for almost $24 billion in economic output and more than 145,000 jobs.

One of the strongest examples is the Gold Coast Health and Knowledge Precinct at Southport. The 200-hectare precinct now contains more than $5 billion worth of health, education, research and innovation infrastructure and supports over 16,000 jobs.

The report also highlights the growing role of advanced manufacturing, particularly in aerospace, defence and modular construction.

Gold Coast-based Gilmour Space Technologies recently became the first Australian commercial company to attempt an orbital launch, while companies including Modscape and ModnPods are helping establish the Yatala-Stapylton corridor as one of Australia's fastest-growing advanced manufacturing hubs.

The city's entrepreneurial culture is also translating into business growth.

Since 2019/20, the number of businesses operating on the Gold Coast has increased by 22 per cent, while firms employing more than 200 people have grown by 80 per cent. The report suggests the next challenge is converting more local start-ups and medium-sized businesses into nationally significant companies.

Development activity remains another key indicator of confidence.

There are currently more than $23 billion worth of major projects underway across the Gold Coast, supported by a record 75 active cranes, a figure that now exceeds Brisbane and represents a 150 per cent increase since 2016.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112024 project_image_fid=343235]

Importantly, the report notes the next phase of investment will need to extend beyond residential development.

While 93 per cent of crane activity is currently tied to housing, Invest Gold Coast argues future investment will increasingly need to focus on cultural, civic, infrastructure and industry-enabling projects that strengthen the city's long-term economic resilience.

Invest Gold Coast Chair Will Hodgman said the city was now benefiting from years of economic diversification.

"What is happening on the Gold Coast is the result of the city's economic base broadening, fuelled by industries with long-term, high-growth potential," Mr Hodgman said.

"This is no longer a secondary Australian economy, the Gold Coast is becoming a globally connected city with deeper capability across health, knowledge and creative industries, advanced manufacturing, technology and exports."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365786]

Looking ahead, the Gold Coast's population is projected to exceed one million residents by 2046.

For a city that was once largely defined by tourism and lifestyle, the latest figures suggest the Gold Coast is becoming something more significant, one of Australia's most diverse and economically sophisticated urban economies, and increasingly one that national and international investors can no longer afford to overlook.

Joel Robinson

75 cranes, $23 billion pipeline and a $55 billion economy: Inside the Gold Coast economic boom

Ron Bakir's Homecorp has sold more than 75 per cent of the apartments in its wellness-driven Florence Residences in Surfers Paradise following its first weekend release.

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/florence-residences-24-monte-carlo-avenue-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">26-storey project on Monte Carlo Avenue</a>, which commenced construction earlier this year, has seen a flurry of buyers secure their slice of the Gold Coast's latest wellbeing-focused offering in one of the nation's most competitive property markets.

Since the pandemic, the Gold Coast's population has grown by more than 11 per cent, a rate approximately four times faster than Sydney's, driven largely by lifestyle changes and interstate migration. While buyer activity has moderated in some markets nationally, demand for newly built dwellings on the Gold Coast continues to gain momentum as purchasers increasingly prioritise lifestyle, amenity, wellbeing, liveability and long-term investment potential.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150414 project_image_fid=372743]

Homecorp CEO Ron Bakir says buyers today are looking for more than just a home.

"What we are seeing is a shift in how people define value in property," Bakir says.

"What attracts residents to new developments is a desire for more than just a residence. They are looking for a place that complements their lifestyle, supports their wellbeing and reflects the way they want to live into the future.

"Lifestyle, longevity, proactive health, wellbeing, connection and a sense of community are increasingly shaping purchasing decisions, particularly on the Gold Coast, where these factors continue to be a major drawcard."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150414 project_image_fid=372744]

Bakir says Homecorp is responding to this shift through an approach that places greater emphasis on design, amenity and experience working together to create places that feel considered, connected and enduring in value.

Inspired by Eastern European design, Florence Residences will comprise 120 apartments alongside a private residents-only wellness club featuring a resort-style rooftop pool, hot and cold plunge pools, a spa retreat, contemporary gymnasium, and a spacious yoga and Pilates studio.

The development will also feature a residents-only lounge with private dining facilities and a rooftop bar, premium outdoor entertaining areas, a hotel-style lobby lounge, generous bike parking, and pet-friendly amenities including a heated dog wash.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150414 project_image_fid=372742]

A limited number of apartments remain available, with an exclusive collection of four-bedroom sub-penthouses set to be released in the coming months.

Florence is one of the latest additions to Homecorp's expanding multi-billion-dollar property portfolio, which also includes plans for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/homecorp-lodges-plans-for-260-million-moroccan-bathhouse-inspired-tower-in-budds-beach">$260 million development in Budds Beach</a> tailored to the growing wellness market.

A development application has been lodged for a 27-storey, 156-residence tower at 8–10 Acacia Avenue and 25–27 Oak Avenue, featuring a residents-only Moroccan spa-inspired sanctuary.

Apartments at Florence Residences are priced from $1,249,000, with construction expected to be completed by late 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150414]

Buyers rush to Homecorp's Florence Residences as Gold Coast wellness trend gains momentum

The NSW Government has expanded its $1 billion Pre-sale Finance Guarantee program, broadening access for affordable housing providers and smaller residential developments as it seeks to accelerate housing delivery across the state.

The Minns Government says the program has already helped bring forward more than 600 homes across Sydney and regional NSW since launching in September 2025, with similar models now adopted in South Australia and Western Australia.

The latest changes, announced by Treasurer Daniel Mookhey and Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully, are designed to improve access to finance for projects that have planning approval but are struggling to secure funding.

Among the key changes is an expansion of support for community housing providers. The program will now support up to 100 per cent affordable housing projects valued at up to $30 million when delivered by not-for-profit providers, while support for larger affordable housing developments will increase for projects worth up to $80 million.

The government says the changes will help accelerate the delivery of housing for low-income workers, older people, people living with disability, and those at risk of homelessness, while reducing reliance on direct grants or subsidised loans to bridge funding gaps.

The eligibility criteria for smaller residential developments have also been broadened. The previous $5 million minimum project value threshold has been removed and replaced with a requirement that projects deliver at least four homes.

Support has also increased for projects delivering fewer than 20 homes, with the guarantee now able to cover up to 75 per cent of dwellings in a development, capped at $30 million per project.

The changes are expected to particularly benefit smaller-scale and regional developments, which often face greater challenges meeting pre-sale requirements imposed by lenders.

Treasurer Daniel Mookhey said the scheme demonstrates how government can use its balance sheet to stimulate housing supply without relying solely on taxpayer-funded grants.

"The Pre-sale Finance Guarantee shows how this Government is using its balance sheet to reduce risk and unlock private investment, enabling new homes to move from design to construction faster," Mookhey said.

"This landmark reform allows us to deliver homes for working families at a lower cost to taxpayers, while also maintaining strong financial discipline."

Planning Minister Paul Scully said the program had already proven effective in bringing stalled projects to market.

"The Pre-sale Finance Guarantee has already proven it can unlock stalled projects and accelerate housing delivery by giving lenders the confidence they need to back good developments," Scully said.

"These changes will allow more affordable housing and smaller developments to access support so more homes can be built faster where communities need them most."

Housing Minister Rose Jackson said the expansion would help community housing providers overcome financing barriers that often delay projects.

"We know community housing providers are ready to build more homes, too often they're held back by barriers to finance," Jackson said.

"Expanding the Pre-sale Finance Guarantee helps remove those barriers so more affordable homes can get off the ground sooner."

The announcement was welcomed by the Property Council of Australia, which has long advocated for measures aimed at improving project feasibility and access to finance.

Property Council NSW Executive Director Katie Stevenson described the expansion as a practical intervention that addresses one of the most immediate constraints on housing delivery.

"This is exactly the kind of practical intervention we need right now, focused on getting projects out of the ground, not just approved," Stevenson said.

"It builds on a model the Property Council has worked closely with government to develop following calls for such a scheme ahead of last year's NSW Budget, so it's great to see it being expanded."

Stevenson said the reforms would help unlock projects that are ready to proceed but have been delayed by financing challenges. However, she noted that broader feasibility issues remain a significant barrier to increasing housing supply.

"The biggest challenge in NSW housing today is delivery. Too many projects have planning approval but are simply not financially viable to proceed under current settings," she said.

Speaking at the Property Council's NSW Housing Summit, Housing Minister Rose Jackson acknowledged that feasibility and financing pressures continue to constrain housing delivery, while reaffirming the government's commitment to work with industry on solutions.

Stevenson said the government's recognition of those challenges was encouraging ahead of next week's state budget.

"It's positive to see the government clearly recognising that feasibility pressures are now a binding constraint on supply," she said.

"With the Budget just days away, the focus must be on backing delivery, making sure projects stack up, finance can flow, and more homes can move from approval to construction."

The expanded Pre-sale Finance Guarantee forms part of the NSW Government's broader housing agenda, which also includes planning reforms, the NSW Housing Pattern Book, and a series of rezonings intended to increase housing capacity across the state.

NSW expands Pre-sale Finance Guarantee to unlock more affordable and regional housing

Design-led developer-builder Lowe Living has unveiled its latest residential development, Jardin House, marking its first foray into Melbourne's blue-chip City of Boroondara.

Located a short walk from Camberwell Junction, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/jardin-house-by-lowe-living-camberwell-335-camberwell-road-camberwell-vic-3124">Jardin House</a> has been designed to appeal to affluent local downsizers and established families seeking a low-maintenance alternative to the large homes that have long defined Camberwell and surrounding suburbs.

The project will comprise a collection of two and three-bedroom apartments ranging from 92 sqm to 280 sqm, alongside a limited number of penthouse residences featuring rooftop terraces spanning more than 100 sqm, with optional private pools.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146717 project_image_fid=372212]

Lowe Living Co-Founder and Managing Director Tim Lowe said Camberwell represented a natural next step for the developer as it expands into some of Melbourne's most tightly held residential markets.

"Jardin House is an important project for our team as it marks the next evolution of our portfolio into different well-established blue-chip pockets of Melbourne," Lowe said.

"Camberwell, with its incredible walkability, family-led neighbourhood feel and superb access to education and transport, makes it a natural choice for us."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146717 project_image_fid=372227]

Designed by Tristan Wong Architects, with interiors by Hecker Guthrie and landscaping by Acre, the development takes inspiration from the Art Deco architecture that remains a defining feature of many of Camberwell's established streets.

A curved facade, arched openings, textured brickwork and sculpted forms reference the suburb's architectural heritage, while extensive landscaping softens the building's presence and creates a strong connection to the surrounding tree-lined streetscape.

The project will be set behind a secure gated entrance, with residents arriving through landscaped gardens designed to create a transition between the public realm and private residences.

Inside, the residences feature natural stone and timber finishes, full-height glazing, Miele appliances and generous open-plan living areas designed for long-term owner occupation.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146717 project_image_fid=372225]

While the apartments themselves have been designed to attract discerning owner-occupiers, it is the amenity offering that sets Jardin House apart from many other boutique projects currently launching across Melbourne.

The centrepiece is a 350 sqm private bathhouse curated in partnership with Aurora Spa &amp; Bathhouse founder Lyndall Mitchell.

The wellness precinct includes mineral pools, hydrotherapy experiences, a Himalayan salt room, sauna, steam room, cold plunge pools and dedicated relaxation spaces, creating what Lowe Living describes as a private wellness retreat exclusively for residents.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146717 project_image_fid=372222]

The collaboration follows Lowe Living's recent partnership with Aurora at Maison Savoy in Brighton, although Jardin House is the first project to incorporate both indoor and outdoor wellness experiences.

Emma Lowe, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Lowe Living, said wellness was becoming an increasingly important consideration for apartment buyers.

"Collaborating with Lyndall Mitchell from Aurora Spa &amp; Bathhouse for a second time is an intentional nod to creating residences that are more than just homes, but a way to enrich the lives of our residents through wellness and longevity," Lowe said.

The amenity offering is complemented by a Technogym fitness studio, residents' lounge, private dining spaces and concierge services.

The launch comes as developers increasingly target Melbourne's established eastern suburbs, where rising land values, ageing housing stock and growing downsizer demand are creating opportunities for boutique apartment projects.

Lowe said the company expects significant generational wealth transfer across suburbs such as Camberwell in coming years, creating further demand for luxury apartment living.

"Camberwell is a blue-chip suburb where homes regularly transact for multiple millions of dollars," he said.

"The generational change of wealth in these locations expected in the coming years is significant, so we see an opportunity to create exclusive residences that appeal to older families and downsizers in order to meet this demand."

Apartments at Jardin house start from $1,195,000. The project forms part of Lowe Living's near-$1 billion portfolio of new developments across Melbourne.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=146717]

Lowe Living launches Jardin House in Camberwell

As <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/north-sydney-nsw-2060">North Sydney</a> continues its transition from a commercial centre into a more layered residential and lifestyle precinct, a new generation of apartment developments is reshaping expectations around scale, amenity, and long-term liveability.

Improved transport connections through the Victoria Cross Metro, continued investment in dining and public spaces, and a constrained supply of new luxury apartments have sharpened demand for homes that combine proximity to the CBD with the privacy and outlook traditionally associated with harbourside houses.

At 177 Walker Street, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/aland">ALAND</a>’s new apartment development <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-walden-north-sydney-177-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">The Walden</a> enters the market with a distinctly residential approach to high-rise living. The 30-level tower will deliver 161 residences, ranging from one-bedroom apartments through to sub-penthouses and a full-floor penthouse, all oriented to capture uninterrupted views across Sydney Harbour, the Opera House, and out toward the Pacific Ocean.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=6395]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>, the project takes advantage of the site’s natural topography and elevated position above the harbour. Rather than relying on density alone, the architecture focuses on outlook, orientation, and spatial flow, with every apartment occupying a corner position to maximise natural light and cross ventilation.

Rothelowman says the site itself shaped much of the architectural response.

“The site has a long history in terms of its inevitable transformation and when we came in, we took inspiration from the idea of reestablishing a sense of the site’s natural terrain and fall. Our scheme aims to integrate with the terrain and the landscape, using the undulating site to slowly reveal glimpses and views of the harbour. The rotation of the tower off grid means every apartment has a view and is naturally cross ventilated. The building's colour palette is quintessentially Sydney, with bronze and sandstone and a luminescent green colour in the glass, making it very earthy and grounded in its location.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=6399]

Inside the residences, the emphasis moves toward larger-format living typically associated with standalone homes. Kitchens sit at the centre of the apartments, connecting directly to open-plan dining and living areas before extending outward into expansive winter gardens and balconies. Calacatta marble, bespoke joinery, integrated appliances, and custom metal detailing are used throughout, while three distinct interior palettes, Terrace, Opera, and Harbour, allow buyers to personalise the spaces without compromising the architectural consistency of the project.

The larger residences place particular attention on separation between entertaining and private zones. In many apartments, master suites occupy the outer corners of the floorplates, allowing bedrooms to benefit from floor-to-ceiling glazing and harbour outlooks independent of the living spaces. Dressing rooms and ensuites continue the material palette through fluted detailing, freestanding baths, and layered stone finishes.

Rothelowman says the design intent centred on creating homes that feel enduring rather than transient.

“Our philosophy is all about the way people live in these spaces, and we wanted to create homes that reflect the quality of life in this unique Sydney location. The apartments showcase expansive living spaces that are generous, sophisticated, and bold, with the ability to connect with views throughout each apartment.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=353235]

A separate four-storey amenity building known as The Pavilion expands the residential offering beyond the apartments themselves. Positioned alongside the tower, the building consolidates wellness, recreation, and social spaces into a dedicated resident retreat. Facilities include a 20-metre rooftop pool and sundeck, sauna, spa, ice bath, wellness studio, gymnasium, concierge service, wine cellar, residents’ lounge, private dining spaces, and dedicated co-working areas with meeting rooms and boardroom facilities.

The amenity mix reflects the buyer profile emerging in North Sydney, where owner-occupiers and downsizers are increasingly prioritising convenience, apartment scale, and long-term usability over purely investment-driven decisions.

The Walden also represents a significant milestone for ALAND, marking the company’s first major move into Sydney’s inner-city luxury apartment market after more than two decades delivering large-scale residential communities across Greater Sydney. Founder Andrew Hrsto says the Walker Street site stood apart because of both its positioning and its rarity.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=6390]

“As a company, we had been searching for a site in one of Sydney’s blue-chip locations, spanning the Eastern Suburbs, the Sydney CBD and the North Shore, and when we had the opportunity to purchase this site, we immediately recognised that it could be something iconic.”

At launch, The Walden recorded more than $103 million in sales, with buyers drawn to the project’s harbour positioning, apartment scale, and proximity to the Metro, which now connects North Sydney to Barangaroo in three minutes and Martin Place in five.

ALAND has commenced construction, and is expecting a completion date in 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134323]

Jonathan Chancellor

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