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Around 90% of the 165 apartments on offer sold in the off the plan weekend launch of The Bindery at Liverpool.
Set within the riverfront The Paper Mill development, prices in the Woods Bagot-designed project ranged from $400,000 up to $685,000 for a three-bedroom terrace.
Some 80% will be owner occupiers with around 20% investors. 
Around 90% of the purchasers were local. 
Coronation Property Co's Paper Mill’s initial release also garnered strong local interest.
Jason Soulos, sales director for Coronation Property Co, the developers of The Paper Mill says Liverpool is a city undergoing significant transformation. 
Designed by architect Domenic Alvaro and his team at Woods Bagot, The Bindery is part of the reactivation of the Georges River and surrounding urban areas.
With top-tier finishes that include recycled timber and brick, granite cobblestones and steel inlay to reflect the site’s industrial past, The Bindery features three sky bridges that link each of the buildings, reminiscent of the communal spaces found within New York apartment buildings.
The purpose built display suite is on Shepherd Street. For more information on the development, <a href="https://www.liveatthepapermill.com.au" target="_blank">click here</a>.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

The Bindery, Liverpool secures 90% weekend off the plan sales

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The Real Estate Institute of Victoria puts the median house price in the Melbourne metropolitian area at $706,000 for the three months to June 30, up from $671,000 in the March quarter.
Melbourne's buoyant property market rocketed past the $700,000 median price ceiling for the city for the first time ever.
REIV chief executive efficer Enzo Raimondo noted its represented a quarter-on-quarter increase of more than 5%.
The quarterly increase matched the December 2014 growth.
“A number of factors have contributed to the strong result," he said.
"A record number of auction sales in the first half of the year, low stock on market, high levels of migration and record low interest rates have been good news for sellers.”
Growth was widespread across Melbourne, with inner suburbs recording an increase of 6.2%, and homes in middle and outer suburbs increasing 5 per cent.
He added that the number of million dollar suburbs across the city skyrocketed to 78 this quarter – 16 more than in the March quarter.
“These ranged from Abbotsford in the inner north, to Fairfield in the north-east, to Heidelberg in the outer east and Hughesdale in the south-east,” he said.
Regional Victoria also had price increases, with the median price of a home in regional Victoria also increasing in the June quarter, up 1.5% to $346,000.
"The regional market has rebounded over March figures as more homebuyers take advantage of affordable properties on offer in regional Victoria.”
 
<a href="/images/2015/07/20/Screen%20Shot%202015-07-20%20at%208.08.28%20AM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<a href="/images/2015/07/20/Screen%20Shot%202015-07-20%20at%208.08.28%20AM.png" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;"> </a><img src="/images/2015/07/20/Screen%20Shot%202015-07-20%20at%208.08.28%20AM.png" alt="" width="679" height="324" style="line-height: 1.3em;">
 
<a href="/images/2015/07/20/Screen%20Shot%202015-07-20%20at%208.08.39%20AM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2015/07/20/Screen%20Shot%202015-07-20%20at%208.08.39%20AM.png" alt="" width="745" height="395">
<a href="/images/2015/07/20/Screen%20Shot%202015-07-20%20at%208.08.47%20AM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2015/07/20/Screen%20Shot%202015-07-20%20at%208.08.47%20AM.png" alt="">
 For more information click <a href="https://www.reiv.com.au/News_Publications/Latest-News?newsID=%7B78A675EE-0B01-498B-AFD6-4C770001D862%7D&amp;title=Melbourne%20breaks%20yet%20another%20house%20price%20record" target="_blank">here</a>.
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Inner Melbourne spurt assists metro median to $706,000: REIV

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The historic Redfern home of High Court judge Virginia Bell has been sold ahead of its August 1 auction.
It was offered with a price guide of $2.4 million plus.
The 1850s Georgian cottage last traded in 1984 for $81,000.
No sale price has been offered on the timeless Georgian cottage, built in 1850 as part of surgeon William Redfern's original estate.
But Title Tattle gleans around $2.6 million was secured.
Occupying a 277sqm block on Pitt Street, the 1850s gem has three bedrooms and two bathrooms.
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High Court judge Virginia Bell quickly accepts market judgement

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The three-time Archibald winner Eric Smith sold his three-bedroom Woollahra home for $2.96 million at weekend auction, close to $500,000 above its $2.5 million reserve at BHR auction. 
The Smith family moved into the double-fronted Victorian home in 1958.
<img src="https://i1.au.reastatic.net/456x342/70e0ce7800be62b8d6e3cf3227cd7de98459573394d5e451a18c9dc6f66f3cb6/main.jpg" alt="5 Small Street, Woollahra" title="5 Small Street, Woollahra" data-index="0">
The studio at the back of the home was where he painted his three Archibald Prize-winning portraits.
The dilapidated cottage and studio on 393 square metres on Small Street sold to an Eastern suburbs builder.
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Artist Eric Smith's Woollahra cottage sells at $2.96 million

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NRL coach Ricky Stuart has listed his Sutherland Shire waterfront property with $3.5 million hopes through Jon Brookes at Brookes Partners.
It is being marketed promoting its sporting property pedigree.
It was bought in 2011 for $2.65 million from the former champion swimmer Ian Thorpe who paid $2.9 million in 2003 for <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-port+hacking-120274921" target="_blank">the Port Hacking waterfront</a>.
<img src="/images/stories/thorpe2.jpg">
Stuart's 2011 purchase of 2 Wallendbeen Avenue marked his return to the sporty shire, having previously owned at Burraneer Bay.
Stuart had been on the receiving end of the weaker property market in Sydney’s eastern suburbs, as he sold his former Vaucluse house for $2.3 million in 2011 having paid $2.75 in 2006 while coaching the Sydney Roosters.
He has been coaching the Canberra Raiders since 2014.
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Ricky Stuart lists Port Hacking, Sutherland Shire waterfront

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The preliminary weighted national auction clearance rate sits at 77 per cent this week, having increased from a recent low of 74.9 per cent the previous week. 
CoreLogic RP Data noted there have been 1,414 auction results reported until Saturday evening from a total of 1,766 auctions held across the capital cities. 
Last week there were 1,704 capital city auctions, while one year ago there were 1,515 with a clearance rate of 69.3 per cent.
Melbourne’s preliminary auction clearance rate was 74.9 per cent this week, the lowest it has been since mid-February.
The clearance rate this week is down from 77.4 per cent last week, but higher than at the same time last year when the clearance rate was 68.4 per cent. This week there were 729 Melbourne auctions, compared to 655 last week and 674 last year. The strongest performing Melbourne sub-region, based on preliminary results, was the North East region, where 80 results have been reported with a clearance rate of 82.5 per cent.
The preliminary auction clearance rate for Sydney was 82.6 per cent this week, up from 78.8 per cent last week, which was the second lowest clearance rate in the city for 2015. This week the number of homes taken to auction across Sydney remained relatively steady, with 768 auctions compared to 791 last week. At the same time last year, Sydney’s auction market was beginning to gain some momentum, with a clearance rate of 75.2 per cent across 588 auctions. Across Sydney, Inner West (92.7 per cent), Blacktown (90.9 per cent) and Ryde (90.9 per cent) were the strongest performing sub-regions this week.
For Brisbane, the auction clearance rate this week increased from 52.5 per cent last week to 65.4 per cent. This week’s result is also stronger than at the same time last year, when 56.9 per cent of auctions were successful. Meanwhile, across the Gold Coast, 24 results have been reported so far, with a clearance rate of 45.8 per cent.
Across Adelaide, 77 homes were taken to auction this week and of the 49 results, 69.4 per cent were sold. Adelaide’s clearance rate was lower over the previous week (66.1 per cent) and at the same time last year (69.0 per cent).
22.2 per cent of Perth’s reported auctions were sold this week, compared to 33.3 per cent last week and 38.5 per cent the previous week. This week 21 auctions were held across Perth, compared to 26 last week, and just 16 one year ago.
There were 44 Canberra homes taken to auction this week and of the 22 reported results, 86.4 per cent were sold.
Across Tasmania, 6 results were reported to CoreLogic RP Data, with 4 of these properties reported as sold.
 
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Inner west, Blacktown, Ryde top Sydney's strongest auction regions: CoreLogic RP Data

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Champion swimmer Geoff Huegill, and his wife Sara, have sold their three-level, four-bedroom Darlinghurst terrace pre-auction.
Title Tattle gleans it sold for $2.32 million ahead of its scheduled August 6 auction through Jason Boon and Geoff Cox at Richardson &amp; Wrench Elizabeth Bay.
<img src="https://i3.au.reastatic.net/800x600/2d6664d430e542a15b0394ed2f35acf7e646ad65ce49253486049849a52a4fd3/main.jpg" alt="453 Liverpool Street, Darlinghurst" title="453 Liverpool Street, Darlinghurst" data-index="0">
The 133 square metre offering cost $1.97 million in late 2011. They bought it and still own 60% percent of the terrace, after it<a href="/news/geoff-huegill-and-wife-sara-hills-list-darlinghurst-terrace"> was bought in partnership with Geoff Huegill’s in-laws</a>.
<img src="https://i2.au.reastatic.net/800x600/831635f6a9bb62fb96d84ff521055ebe2e2924bf1198cd1f5480dd6fe9601139/image3.jpg" alt="453 Liverpool Street, Darlinghurst" title="453 Liverpool Street, Darlinghurst" data-index="2">
Sara Huegill, nee Hills, was in the Sweaty Betty PR fashion firm prior to their 2011 marriage.
The couple reportedly wanted mid-$2 million.
<img src="https://i4.au.reastatic.net/800x600/ba6ebe95ec724a0407cf388666e13b4be6e2b8db929d3673318d29d2896c4571/image5.jpg" alt="453 Liverpool Street, Darlinghurst" title="453 Liverpool Street, Darlinghurst" data-index="4">
A $1,565,000 sale nearby at 473 Liverpool Street, Darlinghurst was secured earlier this year with three bedrooms, two bathrooms.
Winning bronze and silver at the 2000 Olympics, Huegill established himself as one of the world’s best butterfly swimmers.
All up he set eight world records.
 
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Geoff Huegill and Sara Hills sell Darlinghurst pre-auction 

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A Melton home - the weekend's cheapest sale - reflected a loss for the vendor over their six year ownership.
It fetched $247,000 having sold in 2009 at $275,000.
The three bedroom (below) 1990-built home sits on a 680 square metre holding offered through Barry Plant Real Estate. 
Melton's median house price has been in decline for around four years to its <a href="/news">current $240,000 level</a>.
<img src="https://i1.au.reastatic.net/456x342/8147f6d68d3f4ab5ae57a43966ab1005899f6491899fe99956ae0e16a55d419c/main.jpg" alt="48 Centenary Avenue, Melton" title="48 Centenary Avenue, Melton" data-index="0"> 
Melbourne's initial clearance rate sat at 76 per cent this weekend compared to 74 per cent last weekend. The initial clearance rate had been put at 77% last weekend.
It was 70 per cent this weekend last year.
There were 597 auctions reported so far this weekend to the REIV ranging from $180,000 to $3.35 million, for a Camberwell townhouse development site that sold post-auction.
TOP 5 HOUSES 
1. 15 Glencairn Avenue, Camberwell $3,350,000 2. 27 Laburnum Street, Brighton $3,250,000 3. 11 Livingstone Street, Ivanhoe $2,855,000 4. 8 Baily Street, Mount Waverley $2,790,000 5. 29 Fisher Parade, Ascot Vale $2,550,000 
TOP 5 BARGAIN HOUSES 
1. 48 Centenary Avenue, Melton $247,000 2. 16 Bootie Court, Roxburgh Park $330,000 3. 33 Heatherhill Road, Frankston $345,500 4. 47 Ash Street, Doveton $350,000 5. 29 Hurlingham Way, Craigieburn $356,000 TOP 5 APARTMENTS 
1. Lot 1/14 Victoria Crescent, Mont Albert $2,165,000 2. 6.1/193 Domain Road, South Yarra $1,750,000 3. 2/31 Kennealy Street, Surrey Hills $1,210,000 4. 17 Sandford Street, Highett $1,160,000 5. 61A Woornack Road, Carnegie $1,150,000 
TOP 5 BARGAIN APARTMENTS 
1. 45/92 Grey Street, St Kilda $180,000 2. 19/181 Geelong Road, Seddon $218,500 3. 12/6 Garnet Street, Brunswick $225,000 4. 24/15 Acland Street, St Kilda $230,000 5. 7/352 Koornang Road, Carnegie $275,000
SOURCE <a href="https://www.reiv.com.au/Property-Research" target="_blank">REIV</a>
Enzo Raimondo, the REIV chief reported auction proceeds totalled $365 million.
The clearance rate for houses was 81% with a median price of $838,500 with apartments' clearance rate at 70% and a $597,000 median price.
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Loss making at Melton amid Melbourne's wavering auctions: REIV

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Iris Property Group has bought another Kings Cross development site, next door to the Bourbon Hotel which they only recently bought.
Iris has paid around $18.75 million for the 61 room, 300 backpacker bed, former Kingsview Motel which comes with two retail stores at ground level.
The motel, at 30 Darlinghurst Road, Kings Cross, was first offered formally in the late 1980s with a rental income of $163,000 a year from Neptunes Restaurant, which was then part of the motel next to the former Club Swans. Its current operators have the premises trading as DLux furnished apartments.
<img src="https://res-2.cloudinary.com/cre/image/fetch/w_667,h_500,c_pad,f_auto,d_placeholder_viubzx.png/http%3A%2F%2Fcre.domainstatic.com.au%2Fw800-h600-2009859555_1_pi_150310_091531" alt="30 Darlinghurst Road POTTS POINT POTTS POINT NSW 2011" data-bind="attr: { src: fullSizeUrl, alt: '{0} {1} {2} {3}'.format($parent.displayableAddress(), $parent.suburb(), $parent.state(), $parent.postcode()) }">
It has been long held by Millie Phillips, better known for heading the Milstern Health Care retirement village and nursing home outfit.
Millie Phillips was often cited for many decades as among Australia's richest self-made businesswoman, after buying a small boarding house in Sydney's Ashfield in the early 1960s after she had just separated from her husband and had three children to support.
The space above the Bourbon Hotel is ear-marked for redevelopment into apartments after its recent sale to Iris.
The C.inc hotel group, headed by Christopher Cheung, secured about $28 million for the Kings Cross icon, The Bourbon Hotel earlier this year when bought by the apartment developer and hotel operator Iris Capital's Sam Arnaout.
The Bourbon was marketed last October with having capacity for around 80 apartments (artist's impression below) with bar facilities at street level.
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The Bourbon and the adjoining former Sydney Swans Club in Kings Cross had been listed after Cheung told the SMH the lockout laws in the inner city had influenced his decision to sell and focus on his other assets, including the Coogee Bay Hotel and Cruise Bar, Circular Quay.
They optimistically suggested the buyer would be "part of the area's Covent Garden/Soho transformation."
Cheung bought the Potts Point properties that sit on 6,300 square metres from the former ING Real Estate Entertainment Fund in 2010, after a hailstorm caused the roof of the Swans club to collapse. 
Cheung spent about $10 million upgrading the landmark Bourbon hotel, which boasts 30 gaming machines and hotel licence with a separate $4 million realisation value.
The site was being marketed as potentially accommodating apartments, with retail and or a wine bar at street level.
The Bourbon arose from the ashes of the famed Bourbon and Beefsteak in The Cross.
China’s largest developer Greenland Group has bought the Crest Hotel in Sydney’s Kings Cross from Sam Arnaout’s hospitality and development group Iris Capital.
Colliers International agent Miron Solomons handled the off-market transaction of the property on the Victoria Street and Darlinghurst Road corner.
Iris bought The Crest for about $65 million from Australand in 2012. 
The Crest Hotel has development ­approval for 139 apartments.
<img src="https://durbachblockjaggers.com/file/02-crest-hotel_550a6539cd7ae-projectImage.jpg">
Iris had plans to develop the 19-storey tower with an hourglass design by architects Durbach Block Jager.
Following a design competition held by the City of Sydney council, the concept for stage-one plans were approved.
Comparisons have been drawn between New York's Times Square and the new site for DBJ's The Crest.
Image of new Crest from Durbach Block Jaggers.
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Millie Phillips calls time as Kingsview Motel, Kings Cross sells to neighbour, Bourbon's Iris Capital

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Sydney's preliminary weekend auction success rate bounced up to 83%, but the revised figure for last weekend dipped to 77%.
The revised 77% figure was the lowest for the year, down 3% on the preliminary 80% on the initial June 11 result.
Sydney prices ranged from $420,000 to $4.7 million in the July 18 weekend results which covered 498 of the 605 listings.
Sydney's cold auction day came as the city recorded its busiest ever July auction day.
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<div id="Content_Content_propertyPhotos_MainImage_MainImagePlaceholder" class="img-wrapper"><img class="js-first-image" src="https://b.domainstatic.com.au/w800-h600-w900-h600-2012014349_1_pi_150717_070509" alt="53 dorking road cabarita NSW 2137"></div>
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Top sale was a $4.7 million suburb record (above and below) for a seven-bedroom Dorking Road, Cabarita 865-square-metre waterfront property traded just 11 months ago for $3.8 million. 
Nothing much done at the home since last August when sold via expressions of interest, other than 25% plus annualised price growth. It had failed to sell at its $4 million plus hopes at May 2014 auction.
The August 2014 sale was on delayed settlement terms, with the sale finalised in December last year, Property Observer gleans. 
<img src="https://i4.au.reastatic.net/456x342/a2b7b7237dc39a61534f7828f8285e99dea488e96a5ce375d7a82082bd4f1458/image7.jpg" alt="53 Dorking Road, Cabarita" title="53 Dorking Road, Cabarita" data-index="7">
It was marketed with $4 million plus price guidance this time around.
The buyers, who came from Five Dock, saw the property mid-week for the first time.
SPOT THE DIFFERENCE: <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-cabarita-116630479" target="_blank">THEN</a> AND <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-cabarita-119903285" target="_blank">NOW.</a>
<table style="width: 502px; height: 329px;" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="5"><tbody>
<tr>
<td colspan="2">
Most expensive
</td>
<td colspan="2"> </td>
</tr>
<tr id="x_rpMostExpensive_trMostExpensiveRow_0">
<td id="x_rpMostExpensive_tdMostExpensiveCity_0" align="left">Sydney</td>
<td id="x_rpMostExpensive_tdMostExpensiveLocation_0" colspan="2">53 Dorking Rd, Cabarita NSW 2137, 7 br House, Devine Real Estate</td>
<td id="x_rpMostExpensive_tdMostExpensiveSold_0">$4.7m</td>
</tr>
<tr id="x_rpMostExpensive_trMostExpensiveRow_1">
<td id="x_rpMostExpensive_tdMostExpensiveCity_1" align="left">Melbourne</td>
<td id="x_rpMostExpensive_tdMostExpensiveLocation_1" colspan="2">15 Glencairn Av, Camberwell VIC 3124, 5 br House, Jellis Craig</td>
<td id="x_rpMostExpensive_tdMostExpensiveSold_1">$3.35m</td>
</tr>
<tr id="x_rpMostExpensive_trMostExpensiveRow_2">
<td id="x_rpMostExpensive_tdMostExpensiveCity_2" align="left">Adelaide</td>
<td id="x_rpMostExpensive_tdMostExpensiveLocation_2" colspan="2">16 Williams Av, Dulwich SA 5065, 4 br House, Harris Real Estate</td>
<td id="x_rpMostExpensive_tdMostExpensiveSold_2">$1.21m</td>
</tr>
<tr id="x_rpMostExpensive_trMostExpensiveRow_3">
<td id="x_rpMostExpensive_tdMostExpensiveCity_3" align="left">Brisbane</td>
<td id="x_rpMostExpensive_tdMostExpensiveLocation_3" colspan="2">4 Oxford St, Paddington QLD 4064, 3 br House, Paddington Real Estate</td>
<td id="x_rpMostExpensive_tdMostExpensiveSold_3">$1.485m</td>
</tr>
<tr id="x_rpMostExpensive_trMostExpensiveRow_4">
<td id="x_rpMostExpensive_tdMostExpensiveCity_4" align="left">Canberra</td>
<td id="x_rpMostExpensive_tdMostExpensiveLocation_4" colspan="2">17 Truscott St, Campbell ACT 2612, 5 br House, Peter Blackshaw </td>
<td id="x_rpMostExpensive_tdMostExpensiveSold_4">$1.292m</td>
</tr>
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<td colspan="2">
Most affordable
</td>
<td colspan="2"> </td>
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<td id="x_rpMostAffordable_tdMostAffordableCity_0" align="left">Sydney</td>
<td id="x_rpMostAffordable_tdMostAffordableLocation_0" colspan="2">2/49-51 Davis Rd, Marayong NSW 2148, 2 br Townhouse, HAR Unlimited</td>
<td id="x_rpMostAffordable_tdMostAffordableSold_0">$420,000</td>
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<td id="x_rpMostAffordable_tdMostAffordableCity_1" align="left">Melbourne</td>
<td id="x_rpMostAffordable_tdMostAffordableLocation_1" colspan="2">45/92 Grey St, St Kilda VIC 3182, 1 br Studio, Pride Real Estate</td>
<td id="x_rpMostAffordable_tdMostAffordableSold_1">$180,000</td>
</tr>
<tr id="x_rpMostAffordable_trMostAffordableRow_2">
<td id="x_rpMostAffordable_tdMostAffordableCity_2" align="left">Adelaide</td>
<td id="x_rpMostAffordable_tdMostAffordableLocation_2" colspan="2">3 Winkle St, Elizabeth Downs SA 5113, 3 br House, ELD Playford</td>
<td id="x_rpMostAffordable_tdMostAffordableSold_2">$141,000</td>
</tr>
<tr id="x_rpMostAffordable_trMostAffordableRow_3">
<td id="x_rpMostAffordable_tdMostAffordableCity_3" align="left">Brisbane</td>
<td id="x_rpMostAffordable_tdMostAffordableLocation_3" colspan="2">6 Driftwood St, Crestmead QLD 4132, 3 br House, REMAX First Choice Community</td>
<td id="x_rpMostAffordable_tdMostAffordableSold_3">$235,500</td>
</tr>
<tr id="x_rpMostAffordable_trMostAffordableRow_4">
<td id="x_rpMostAffordable_tdMostAffordableCity_4" align="left">Canberra</td>
<td id="x_rpMostAffordable_tdMostAffordableLocation_4" colspan="2">3 Cosgrove St, Curtin ACT 2605, 2 br House, Peter Blackshaw Real Estate</td>
<td id="x_rpMostAffordable_tdMostAffordableSold_4">$452,500</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
"Although clearance rates have been falling recently reflecting the typical seasonal effect of winter, listing numbers however have been heading in the other direction," APM senior economist Dr Andrew Wilson noted before today's results.
Sydney hosted 605 auctions which was ahead of last weekend’s 550 and significantly higher than the 410 auctioned over the same weekend last year. 
<div>Auction listings in Sydney are tracking 50 percent higher so far over July compared to last July over the same period, with numbers set to rise sharply over the final two weekends of the month. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>"July auction listings are looking more like spring and autumn market activity reflecting heady confidence by sellers in the still strong Sydney market," Dr Wilson said.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>The Cooley Auctions clearance rate was 83% today selling 45 of 54.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Shane Oliver, head of investment strategy and chief economist at AMP Capital, suggested the APM clearance for Sydney of 83% would become 81% after late results - "trending a bit softer, but still strong and up on year ago."</div>
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<td>
<h2>Auction Results</h2>
</td>
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<th>City</th>
<th>Clearance rate</th>
<th>Number listed</th>
<th>Number reported auctions</th>
<th>Number sold</th>
<th>Number w/drawn</th>
<th>Total value sold (million)</th>
<th>Auction median houses</th>
<th>Auction median units</th>
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<tbody>
<tr>
<td colspan="5">
This week
</td>
<td colspan="4">
Saturday, 18 July 2015
</td>
</tr>
<tr id="x_rpAuctionResultsThisWeek_trThisWeekRow_0">
<td id="x_rpAuctionResultsThisWeek_tdThisWeekCity_0">Sydney</td>
<td id="x_rpAuctionResultsThisWeek_tdThisWeekClearance_0">83.1 %</td>
<td id="x_rpAuctionResultsThisWeek_tdThisWeekListed_0">630</td>
<td id="x_rpAuctionResultsThisWeek_tdThisWeekReported_0">476</td>
<td id="x_rpAuctionResultsThisWeek_tdThisWeekSold_0">414</td>
<td id="x_rpAuctionResultsThisWeek_tdThisWeekWithdrawn_0">22</td>
<td id="x_rpAuctionResultsThisWeek_tdThisWeekTotalSold_0">$398.8</td>
<td id="x_rpAuctionResultsThisWeek_tdThisWeekHouseMedian_0">$1,240,000</td>
<td id="x_rpAuctionResultsThisWeek_tdThisWeekUnitMedian_0">$770,000</td>
</tr>
<tr id="x_rpAuctionResultsThisWeek_trThisWeekRow_1">
<td id="x_rpAuctionResultsThisWeek_tdThisWeekCity_1">Melbourne</td>
<td id="x_rpAuctionResultsThisWeek_tdThisWeekClearance_1">77.6 %</td>
<td id="x_rpAuctionResultsThisWeek_tdThisWeekListed_1">650</td>
<td id="x_rpAuctionResultsThisWeek_tdThisWeekReported_1">497</td>
<td id="x_rpAuctionResultsThisWeek_tdThisWeekSold_1">387</td>
<td id="x_rpAuctionResultsThisWeek_tdThisWeekWithdrawn_1">2</td>
<td id="x_rpAuctionResultsThisWeek_tdThisWeekTotalSold_1">$250.0</td>
<td id="x_rpAuctionResultsThisWeek_tdThisWeekHouseMedian_1">$805,000</td>
<td id="x_rpAuctionResultsThisWeek_tdThisWeekUnitMedian_1">$522,500</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div> </div>
<div> </div>
<div>SOURCE APM</div>
</body></html>

Stellar 25% price growth amid see-sawing Sydney auction success as cooling forecast comes for late winter vendors

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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