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It's summer time, so longingly looking into estate agent window displays for shacks or palaces for sale or rent up and down the coast has been property pursuit of many.
Recent research puts Portsea and Sorrento on top of the nation’s list when it comes to weekly median holiday rentals.
The holiday homes on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula typically get rented to holiday makers for around $3,150 a week.
But just a few kilometres down Point Nepean Road at Rye, the vacation prices are far less expensive with seven nights for around $1,900. Even cheaper at Rosebud.
Broadbeach's $2,325 rental on the Gold Coast can be halved at Coolangatta at around $1,085, PRDnationwide research analyst Harrison Hall said.
“For those looking at Sorrento you can expect to pay 60% less in nearby Rosebud ($1,260),’’ he told The New Daily.
The research found Sydney's northern beaches have a $2,380 weekly median holiday rental, the much higher prices paid in the often-secretative Palm Beach precinct not included in the survey.
The survey, after combing online holiday house rental portals, reported on the areas across Australia where PRD have previously undertaken its extensive property research. 
<table border="1">
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<tbody>
<tr>
<td class="s0">State</td>
<td class="s0"> </td>
<td class="s0">$ Median Nightly Rate</td>
<td class="s0">$ Median Weekly Rate</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s1">VIC</td>
<td class="s1">Portsea/Sorrento</td>
<td class="s2">449.5</td>
<td class="s2">$3,146.50</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s3">NSW</td>
<td class="s3">Northern Beaches</td>
<td class="s4">340</td>
<td class="s4">$2,380.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s1">QLD</td>
<td class="s1">Broadbeach/Mermaid Beach</td>
<td class="s2">332.5</td>
<td class="s2">$2,327.50</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s1">QLD</td>
<td class="s1">Sunshine Beach</td>
<td class="s2">331</td>
<td class="s2">$2,317.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s1">NSW</td>
<td class="s1">Avoca Beach</td>
<td class="s2">297</td>
<td class="s2">$2,079.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s1">QLD</td>
<td class="s1">Noosa Heads</td>
<td class="s2">285</td>
<td class="s2">$1,995.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s1">QLD</td>
<td class="s1">Hope Island/Sanctuary Cove</td>
<td class="s2">280</td>
<td class="s2">$1,960.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s1">VIC</td>
<td class="s1">Rye</td>
<td class="s2">271</td>
<td class="s2">$1,897.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s1">VIC</td>
<td class="s1">Lorne</td>
<td class="s2">244</td>
<td class="s2">$1,708.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s1">QLD</td>
<td class="s1">Coolum</td>
<td class="s2">240</td>
<td class="s2">$1,680.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s5">NSW</td>
<td class="s5">Byron</td>
<td class="s6">240</td>
<td class="s6">$1,680.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s5">WA</td>
<td class="s5">Margaret River</td>
<td class="s6">232.5</td>
<td class="s6">$1,627.50</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s5">QLD</td>
<td class="s5">Burleigh Heads/Currumbin</td>
<td class="s6">230</td>
<td class="s6">$1,610.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s5">VIC</td>
<td class="s5">Torquay</td>
<td class="s6">225</td>
<td class="s6">$1,575.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s5">QLD</td>
<td class="s5">Mooloolaba</td>
<td class="s6">219.5</td>
<td class="s6">$1,536.50</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s5">SA</td>
<td class="s5">Aldinga</td>
<td class="s6">214.5</td>
<td class="s6">$1,501.50</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s5">NSW</td>
<td class="s5">Jervis Bay</td>
<td class="s6">205</td>
<td class="s6">$1,435.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s5">VIC</td>
<td class="s5">Anglesea</td>
<td class="s6">200</td>
<td class="s6">$1,400.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s5">NSW</td>
<td class="s5">Mollymook</td>
<td class="s6">200</td>
<td class="s6">$1,400.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s5">SA</td>
<td class="s5">Maslins Beach</td>
<td class="s6">200</td>
<td class="s6">$1,400.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s5">TAS</td>
<td class="s5">Freycinet (Coles Bay)</td>
<td class="s6">195</td>
<td class="s6">$1,365.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s5">QLD</td>
<td class="s5">Noosaville</td>
<td class="s6">190</td>
<td class="s6">$1,330.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s5">WA</td>
<td class="s5">Scarborough</td>
<td class="s6">190</td>
<td class="s6">$1,330.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s5">QLD</td>
<td class="s5">Surfers Paradise</td>
<td class="s6">185</td>
<td class="s6">$1,295.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s5">SA</td>
<td class="s5">Glenelg</td>
<td class="s6">185</td>
<td class="s6">$1,295.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s5">QLD</td>
<td class="s5">Peregian Beach</td>
<td class="s6">180</td>
<td class="s6">$1,260.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s5">VIC</td>
<td class="s5">Rosebud</td>
<td class="s6">180</td>
<td class="s6">$1,260.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s5">NSW</td>
<td class="s5">Port Stephens</td>
<td class="s6">180</td>
<td class="s6">$1,260.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s5">NSW</td>
<td class="s5">Coffs Harbour</td>
<td class="s6">177.5</td>
<td class="s6">$1,242.50</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s5">QLD</td>
<td class="s5">Bribie Island</td>
<td class="s6">175</td>
<td class="s6">$1,225.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s5">NSW</td>
<td class="s5">Kingscliff</td>
<td class="s6">170</td>
<td class="s6">$1,190.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s7">SA</td>
<td class="s7">Robe</td>
<td class="s8">170</td>
<td class="s8">$1,190.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s7">NSW</td>
<td class="s7">Batemans Bay</td>
<td class="s8">167.5</td>
<td class="s8">$1,172.50</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s7">QLD</td>
<td class="s7">Alexandra Headlands</td>
<td class="s8">160</td>
<td class="s8">$1,120.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s7">NSW</td>
<td class="s7">Eden</td>
<td class="s8">160</td>
<td class="s8">$1,120.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s7">QLD</td>
<td class="s7">Coolangatta</td>
<td class="s8">155</td>
<td class="s8">$1,085.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s7">NSW</td>
<td class="s7">Merimbula</td>
<td class="s8">150</td>
<td class="s8">$1,050.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s7">WA</td>
<td class="s7">Cable Beach</td>
<td class="s8">150</td>
<td class="s8">$1,050.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s7">NSW</td>
<td class="s7">Port Mac</td>
<td class="s8">140</td>
<td class="s8">$  980.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s7">NSW</td>
<td class="s7">Yamba</td>
<td class="s8">110</td>
<td class="s8">$  770.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="s7">NSW</td>
<td class="s7">Hawks Nest</td>
<td class="s8">93</td>
<td class="s8">$  651.00</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
Source: PRDnationwide 
Affordable NSW country costal holiday accommodation included Hawks Nest, 225 kilometres from Sydney, with a median seven-night stay costing $650.
<div id="attachment_177959">The PRD research put the weekly holiday rentals at Yamba (670 kilometres north of Sydney) at $770, Port Macquarie (390 kilometres north of Sydney) at $980 and Merimbula (525 kilometres south of Sydney) at $1,050. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>
For Canberra residents Batemans Bay will typically cost $1,175.
</div>
In South Australia, a week-long stay in the coastal, Robe will cost about $1,190.
In Western Australia's Margaret River holiday makers face a median weekly rental of $1,625.
At Cable Beach in Broome, the cost is $1,050.
Freycinet (Coles Bay) in Tasmania will cost $1,365.
The research combined pricing of all holiday accommodation including apartments, houses and units.
Last year Pitcher Partners partner David Staples, compiled an analysis, counselling would-be buyers to do their sums.
“It’s generally a lifestyle choice rather than an investment,” he suggests. 
And of course renting out to others at the peak holiday times, is necessary for tax deductability.
For many holiday home owners, it's almost a home-from-home with the eventual savvy sea change shift less stressful than for everyone else.
Many coastal property owners complain that they spend all their time fixing up and maintaining their holiday homes, especially those in close proximity of the sea.
Rental returns in many coastal spots can cover most costs - maybe all up around eight weeks a year with demand then plummeting during winter which is when the owner can enjoy those blustery southerlies.
Typically you'd expect it to provide a net annual yield of no more than 2 per cent, even if commanding weekly rents of $2000 or more in peak periods.
Ofcourse there's always the chance of using the income for a quick ski at Whistler while the tenants are swatting away the beachside blowies.
Beware the expectations of holiday guests has risen in recent times so household items once considered extras such as air-conditioning, a dishwasher and a modern gas barbeque are now viewed as essential.
Maybe even the Nepresso machine given anyone can gets the capsules at the local supermarket..
According to David Staples from the accounting firm Pitcher Partners, the money spent on an average holiday house could pay for more than one week a month – or about 90 days a year – in a quality hotel.
Land tax on a holiday house can be a massive burden, particularly in pricey areas on the Mornington Peninsula and on Sydney’s northern beaches.
In these areas, annual land tax on a holiday home can amount to tens of thousands of dollars.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Pricey holiday home rentals can be halved staying at nearby affordable alternatives

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Almost 60% of the 99 properties auctioned at the Gold Coast yesterday sold with Ray White The Event attracting 243 registered bidders
A 770 square metre two level penthouse at the Nirvana by the Sea block in Kirra was the top sale at $3,755,000 among the $20 million auction proceeds.
<a href="https://www.rwsp.net/qld/kirra/1241869/" target="_blank">1504/1-3 Douglas St, Coolangatta</a> had previously sold for $2.75 million in 2011, but its $4.4 million hopes held since its early 2014 listing proved overly ambitious.
There had been two earlier higher sales in the prime block of 60 apartments developed by <a href="https://www.nirvanabythesea.com" target="_blank">Niecon</a>.
Its 2007 marketing was promoting Kirra as the "new Noosa" with prices from $950,000 to $2,895,000, replacing 1970s brick blocks of units.
Once known as a casual village popular with surfers, Kirra is at the southern end of the Gold Coast.
<img src="/images/2015/01/27/cobain%20jan%2027%20one.jpg" alt="">
But sellers of a two-bedroom unit in the Soul building at Surfers Paradise secured just $905,000, which was $795,000 less than it fetched in 2012, the Gold Coast Bulletin reported.
The <a href="https://www.rwsp.net/qld/surfers-paradise/1233957/" target="_blank">2502/4-14 The Esplanade, Soul, Surfers Paradise</a> was a 122 square metre offering last sold in June 2012 at $1.7 million to Brisbane buyers.
Onthehouse recently gave a $1.6 million plus guidance.
There were 12 pre-sales among the 58% success rate. There was a 58% initial clearance rate in January 2012. The clearance rate was higher than last year, when around 50% of the homes sold on the day.
The Ray White Surfers Paradise Group chief executive Andrew Bell said the auction was one of the best on record with many properties having four or five bidders.
“Selling close to 60 properties in the space of six hours is a big statement for the state of the local property market,” he told the News Ltd local paper.
The 22nd annual auction showcase, the biggest in Australia, included family homes, investment properties and trophy homes.
28 Lakelands Drive is now under offer. It has four bedrooms, and the listing states that it would comfortably rent for $800 per week.
Bell said investors dominated this year with a strong showing from Melbourne and Sydney buyers.
“The high volume of investors says a lot about market confidence and discretionary spending power,” he said.
Other sales included 50 Falkinder Ave, Paradise Point for $480,000.
The property last sold for $460,000 in 2013.
A one bedroom unit in the Paradise Isles Resort on the Gold Coast was sold for $160,000 to a Sydney investor, with $270 a week plus rental potential,thereby reflecting around a 9% yield. Set on Chevron island, it had first sold back in 1997 for $161,900 at the low rise 40 Burra Street. There was a $189,000 and $167,000 sale in the block last year.
PRD Research recently noted South East Queensland experienced positive property price growth in 2014; despite a soft decline in transaction volume.
<img src="/images/2015/01/27/cobain%20jan%2027%20two.jpg" alt="">
Professional golfer Wayne Grady's riverfront Gold Coast home also went to weekend LJ Hooker auction without success. <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/property/for-sale/house/qld/ashmore/?adid=2011682945" target="_blank">The 1988-built Ashmore house</a> on a 3364 square metre holding had been his home since $850,000 was paid in early 1996. It was listed with $2.79 million hopes in April last year.
It has been a tightly held property having sold at $36,000 in 1978.
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Coolangatta takes the gold but no sales nirvana for all Gold Coast apartment sellers

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The Shelley Beach, Portsea boat shed, listed with $500,000 plus hopes for Australia Day weekend auction, fetched $553,000 today. 
The first accepted opening bid was $400,000 though one attendee offered $245,000, but did not participate again in the bidding.
"It would be a bargain at anything like that ($400,000)," auctioneer Warwick Anderson said.
"We are on the market," he announced when bidding got to $510,000. 
There had been just the two bidders, with the third making his first bid for box 28 at $542,500.
Another boatshed on the beach set a record $585,000 in 2011 through the same selling agency, RT Edgar Portsea, when five families competed for the 2011 offering.
Title Tattle gathers today's successful buyer was an underbidder in 2011 for the neighbouring box 27.
At the final stage today, the late afternoon bidding in 28 degree sunshine was down to $1,000 increments.
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<div class="cards-base cards-multimedia" data-card-url="//twitter.com/titletattle/status/558884304105639936/photo/1" data-card-type="photo" data-element-context="platform_photo_card">
<div class=" is-preview"><img src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/B8GOUDfCQAEK-XS.jpg" alt="Embedded image permalink" width="100%"></div>
Set well back from the beach amid tea trees, the 3.9 x 6.1 metres leasehold bathing box will be a place to store the buyer's beach gear.
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Attendees were told there was no longer an obligation to own a nearby house, but Title Tattle gleans the buyer is local. 
The sand-coloured, rendered brick bathing box, S28 was <a href="https://www.rtedgar.com.au/property/162240/boat-shed-s28-shelley-beach-portsea/" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;">listed through RT Edgar Portsea</a> agents Warwick Anderson and Ilze Moran.
"There are no land tax issues, and not as much maintenance as timber would require" he advised.
Property Observer gleans the offering last sold in 1999 for $160,000, which would reflect 8% annual growth.
There was a crowd of about 100, most of whom had wandered down the Campbells Road path.
While falling short of the record, the price did suggest a floor in pricing.
 In 2010 a pair of young families paid $455,000 for boat shed 21 on Shelley Beach.
In late 2007 there was a $362,000 sale.
It is one of about 40 bathing boxes on Shelley Beach.
There are about 2000 boatsheds and bathing boxes around Victoria, predominantly on the shores of Port Phillip Bay and Western Port.
There were slim pickings for cliff top/beachfront residential properties among the limited 2015 Australia Day weekend auction offerings, with the prestige offerings offered by private treaty this summer.
Property Observer has previously noted Shelley Beach is considered Victoria's most exclusive holiday locale as its offers cliff top owners uninterrupted northern views over the bay.
The median property price in Melbourne is $587,000, based on CoreLogic RP Data's home value index as at December 31, 2014.
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No record as Portsea boatshed fetches $553,000 at Australia Day 2015 weekend auction

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After around 10 weeks on the market, the former Prime Minister Kevin Rudd's long-time Brisbane home is now under contract.
Kevin Rudd and Therese Rein, who now spend much of their time offshore, put it on the market in mid-November with $1.25 million hopes before the asking price was dropped to $1.19 million.
They will retain a Sunshine Coast property.
The local News Ltd paper reported <a href="/news/qld/kevin-rudd-and-therese-rein-now-list-brissie-home-base">the Norman Park </a><a href="/news/qld/kevin-rudd-and-therese-rein-now-list-brissie-home-base">home</a> is now under contract through Tim Atlass Real Estate. 
<a href="https://www.timaltass.com/listings/residential_sale-296586-norman-park/" target="_blank">The two storey home</a> on the 802 square metre block has north-east facing wraparound verandahs surrounded by tropical gardens.
The couple bought it for $384,000 in 1994.
It has a distinctive kangaroo and emu emblem on the verandah lattice.
Norman Park has <a href="/news">a $780,000 median house price according to CoreLogic RP Data</a>. It is a peak for the suburb.
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Kevin Rudd and Therese Rein Norman Park home under contract

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The sale proceeds of the Woollahra family home of Oliver Curtis are not for him to spend yet.
A Supreme Court order under common law proceedings by the Australian Federal Police has placed a restraining caveat over the net proceeds of his half share.
The restraining caveat was lodged on the Edward Street title after the 14 January, 2015 court order.
It does not apply to the half share equity proceeds of his wife, the Sydney PR queen Roxy Jacenko.
Macquarie Bank was permitted to be paid out their mortgage after the $8.15 million sale.
They bought the four-bedroom house for $6.6 million in 2011.
The restraining order, which relates to contested claims, is back in court 4 March, 2015 for further directions. 
<img src="/images/2015/01/27/r-jan-27-one.png" alt="">
Roxy Jacenko tweeted recently that <a href="/news/roxy-does-a-hawkie-with-new-double-bay-digs">the family's new abode was the Double Bay Intercontental Hotel</a>.
She said the family was looking for a new home to buy.
"We live here now - moved in today. We will be here until we buy a new house.," she told The Daily Mail Australia.
The settlement documents have yet to be registered, <a href="/news/roxy-jacenko-and-oliver-curtis-sell-woollahra-trophy-home">but Title Tattle gleaned around $8.25 million was secured</a> for the four bedroom <a href="/news">Woollahra </a>home (pictured above).
The plaintiff, the Australian Federal Police gave an undertaking as to damages.
Title Tattle gleans the house was bought for $8.15 million by Peter and Andrea Blackshaw, who last year sold the all homes.com.au website they founded in 2000 in the ACT.
The Blackshaw's have owned elsewhere in Woollahra since paying $1.5 million in 2007. 
 
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Court order curtails Roxy's husband Oliver Curtis spending Woollahra house sale proceeds

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Maybe it's those bloody power lines. Property investor Richard Moseley’s Bonnie Doon holiday shack near Lake Eildon in Victoria – which featured in the 1997 comedy The Castle as the serene holiday home of the Kerrigan family – has had its recent asking price lowered in the new year.
<a href="/expert-insights/buying/the-kerrigans-the-castle-bonnie-doon-holiday-shack-back-for-sale">It was listed last November at $240,000</a>, but now comes with a $225,000 asking price.
Moseley proudly secured the property for $169,950 in 2006 but then first wanted out, unsuccessfully, in 2011.
The two-bedroom cottage – located 165 kilometres from Melbourne <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/3491-maintongoon-road-bonnie-doon/Property-Details-buy-residential-7906790" target="_blank">at 3491 Maintongoon Road</a> – was listed then at $195,000. After no doubt being told that he was "dreamin", the asking price eased to $169,950.
John Canavan First National agent Ryan Daykin is the latest agent told he's dreamin on ambitious asking prices.
Moseley, a Sydney telecommunications technician, bought it sight unseen – other than of course having viewed the iconic movie.
Until recently it has been a popular rental on the back of featuring as the original holiday home of the Kerrigans in the classic Australian comedy. The home consists of two bedrooms, open plan kitchen, dining and living area, bathroom and laundry.
It is situated on a good-sized block opposite the lake and approximately 500 metres from the boat ramp.
Actor Michael Caton headed the cast including Sophie Lee as his daughter Tracy, Eric Bana as son-in-law Con and Bud Tingwell as Lawrence Hammill, the QC who helped them save their cherished home under the flight path.
The cast only spent one day there - with the entire film shot in just 11 days.
Buyers are advised to bring their own modern mozzie zapper.
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Dreamin, so The Castle Bonnie Doon holiday shack gets cheaper

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Brisbane (5.7%) and Sydney (4.1%) are expected to lead the market for capital growth in capital cities over this year, followed by Melbourne (2.7%), Adelaide (2.1%) and Perth (1.8%).
Then in 2016 the NAB Group Economics forecast Brisbane (3.8%), Sydney (2.3%) and Melbourne (2.3%) to remain the best cities for capital gains in the year to end-2016, with house prices rising by just 2.2% in Adelaide and 1% in Perth. 
The latest NAB report identified 28 suburbs within the capitals that are tipped to enjoy above average capital growth (click on the suburb name below to go to CoreLogic RP Data suburb data page).
No reasons are given for the selection. The forecast comes from a survey questionnaire on the Australian residential market to around 300 industry panellists. 
NEW SOUTH WALES
<ul>
<li><a href="/news">Eastwood</a></li>
<li><a href="/news">Glebe</a></li>
<li><a href="/news">Manly</a></li>
<li><a href="/news">Marrickville</a></li>
<li><a href="/news">Newtown</a></li>
<li><a href="/news">Oran Park</a></li>
<li><a href="/news">Penrith</a></li>
<li><a href="/news">Ryde</a></li>
<li><a href="/news">Surry Hills</a></li>
<li><a href="/news">Sydney</a></li>
</ul>
QUEENSLAND
<ul>
<li><a href="/news">Brisbane</a></li>
<li><a href="/news">Gold Coast</a></li>
<li><a href="/news">New Farm</a></li>
<li><a href="/news">Toowoomba</a></li>
<li><a href="/news">West End</a></li>
</ul>
VICTORIA
<ul>
<li><a href="/news">Essendon</a></li>
<li><a href="/news">Glen Iris</a></li>
<li><a href="/news">Ringwood</a></li>
</ul>
SOUTH AUSTRALIA
<ul>
<li><a href="/news">Mile End</a></li>
<li><a href="/news">Norwood</a></li>
<li><a href="/news">Parkside</a></li>
</ul>
WESTERN AUSTRALIA 
<ul>
<li><a href="/news">Baldivis</a></li>
<li><a href="/news">Belmont</a></li>
<li><a href="/news">Bentley</a></li>
<li><a href="/news">Kelmscott</a></li>
<li><a href="/news">Mandurah</a></li>
<li><a href="/news">Perth</a></li>
<li><a href="/news">Subiaco</a></li>
</ul>
But with more signs emerging that the residential housing market is loosing steam, NAB Economics expects overall average capital city house prices to cool to around 4% over the year to end-2015 and 2% over the year to end-2016.
"Our assessment of the market remains that house price growth will continue to moderate because of rising unemployment, sluggish household income growth, affordability concerns, cost of living pressures and high levels of household debt," the report said.
"We are also forecasting two further interest rates cuts of 25 basic points in March and 25 bps in August 2015 (bringing the official cash rate down to 2%) which should support house prices a little more than previously expected."
The latest report shows the NAB Residential Property Index falling as house price expectations pared back and rents weaken.
The sentiment was softer in all states and still deeply negative in WA. 
Survey highlights:
<ul>
<li>NAB Residential Property Index fell to +12 points in Q4 (+19 in Q3). NSW overtook QLD as strongest state; sentiment notably lower in SA/NT and still deeply negative in WA. QLD and VIC most optimistic looking forward and WA weakest by some margin. 
</li>
<li>Outlook for house prices over next one to two years pared back in all states (NAB also expects price growth to slow). Expectations for rents unchanged, with mildly stronger expectations in VIC and QLD masking softer outlooks in NSW and SA/NT. 
</li>
<li>Foreign buyers in new property markets less active in all states, except VIC where they accounted for 32.5% (or one in three) of all sales - a new high. Around 17% of first home buyers in the new property market were for owner occupation and 8% for investment. 
</li>
<li>Around 53% of foreign purchases were for apartments, 31% for houses and 16% for re-development. By price point, 40% of purchases were between $500,000 to less than $1 million and 29% less than $500k. Around 5% were for premium property ($5 million plus). 
</li>
<li>Housing affordability, construction costs and a lack of development sites seen as the biggest constraints in new housing market, while employment security and price levels the biggest impediment to buying established property. 
</li>
<li>Established property dominated by owner occupiers (42.6%). Local investors account for 22% of total demand, with FHBs (owner occupier) 16.1% with FHBs (investor) 9.3%. Foreign buyers more active (8.7%), led by NSW (11.3%) and VIC .(12.8%). 
</li>
<li>Prospects for capital growth over the next 12 months were pared back at all price ranges in both the established housing and apartment markets in Q4, except for apartments valued between $1-2 million. </li>
</ul>
 
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The 28 suburbs tipped to enjoy above average 2015 price growth: NAB Economics survey

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A Brisbane real estate agent has been ordered to pay $12,687 in fines and compensation by the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal for operating without a real estate agent licence and the improper use of a trust account.
Damien Grimsey was fined $5,000 for trading unlicensed. He was disqualified from holding any form of real estate licence or certificate for seven years.
Grimsey was also ordered to pay $7,687 compensation to a client for failing to pass on an insurance claim payment.
The tribunal heard Grimsey stepped in to take over his father’s real estate business, State Invest Property Services, while his father was hospitalised.
Grimsey operated without a licence from July 2008 to November 2008 and May 2011 to January 2012.
After a receiver was placed in charge of State Invest Property Services, Grimsey opened another trust account under a similar name and sent notices to clients falsely stating that normal trading would shortly resume under the new trust account.
Fair Trading executive director Brian Bauer said that even in unfortunate circumstances, family members could not simply take over a licensed business.
“The property industry is licenced and regulated to protect the public and maintain a high level of professionalism,” Bauer said.
“Consumers have the right to expect their real estate agent is appropriately licensed, and has the training and knowledge to be able to carry out the job properly."
The law does allow a principal licensee to appoint a substitute licensee for a period of not more than 30 days providing certain conditions are satisfied under the Property Occupations Act 2014.
 
 
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Queensland 'agent' fined for taking over sick dad's estate agency

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A record $2.8 billion worth of residential, commercial and hotel developments was approved by the City of Sydney’s chief planning body last year.
Some of the biggest developments approved include the $660 million AMP Circular Quay Precinct, two residential developments in the heart of the city that will be over 230 metres high, and the University of Sydney’s $97 million stage-one campus masterplan. 
Other developments approved by the committee in 2014 included a $100 million hotel-residential development on Kent Street, a 25-storey mixed-use development on Clarence Street worth $89 million, and a $50 million hotel-to-residential conversion in Potts Point.
Lord Mayor Clover Moore said these major building projects would help increase residential and commercial floor space.
“Sydney is thriving and in 2014 the Central Sydney Planning Committee approved 20 development applications worth a combined $2,792,972,230," she said.
Moore was particularly pleased a $25 million creative hub is being built as part of Greenland’s Bathurst Street residential development, and two new childcare centres will be built at a new development at 505 George Street in the city centre.
“This record year of private investment and development comes ahead of work beginning on the extension of the light rail network. The City has committed $220 million to this project, which will be the biggest change to Sydney’s transport in generations.
“The light rail project will give Sydney a world-class main street and support new flagship retail outlets, premium-grade office buildings, and cafés and outdoor dining. We’re already seeing businesses flock to George Street in anticipation of the benefits it will bring,” the Lord Mayor said.
In the City’s south, the Green Square urban renewal area saw a suite of development approvals worth $530 million, including a $142 million high rise building.
In the next four years, an estimated 10,000 apartments will be built at Green Square and the area will become home to 54,000 residents and 20,000 workers.
"We will invest $440 million in building a new town centre, a plaza and library, a new aquatic centre, a new childcare centre as well as parks and playgrounds,” the Lord Mayor said.
The Central Sydney Planning Committee meets monthly and determines major development applications worth more than $50 million.
The committee has seven members, including chair Lord Mayor Clover Moore, Councillors John Mant and Robert Kok, and NSW government representatives Gabrielle Trainor, Carolyn McNally and NSW government architect Peter Poulet.
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Sydney's $2.8 billion development pipeline approvals in 2014

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Steve Keen, head of economics, politics and history at London’s Kingston University, envisages the RBA making a couple of cuts this year - "and possibly more than that".
"The unemployment in Australia now is the worst it’s been in 10/15 years, and the only thing keeping it up is the housing bubble because that is pumping borrowed money into the economy, people are spending that money, and of course also foreign buyers pumping money and buying real estate," he told Lelde Smits from the <a href="https://www.finnewsnetwork.com.au/archives/finance_news_network108975?utm_source=Finance+News+Network%2C+FNN+Investor.&amp;utm_campaign=d8898229af-FNN_Investor_Daily_Afternoon_21_01_2015&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_term=0_93a5b03408-d8898229af-137686745" target="_blank">Finance News Network</a> .
"Those are really the only two massive inflow sources into the economy. 
"If the housing bubble pops then that inflow also stops and we therefore have a downturn driven by having finally a housing bubble bursting. 
"So those dangers are there, you can see plenty of reasons for the cash flow spigot to be turned off, I can’t see many ways of turning it on anymore."   He would be surprised to see it below the 2%, but wouldn’t be amazed.
He  suggests what he sees as the bubble could keep going, "but what it means is we are more and more fragile on the bubble continuing indefinitely".   Asked for the catalyst for the property bubble to pop, Keen sees two things.
"Partly the economy itself slowing down so much that the negative returns in rental become excessive.
"Those people are having carrying costs and of course passing those carrying costs on to the Australian public through negative gearing, but they none the less have those carrying costs to handle.   "And also, if there is anything going wrong in China.
"Things going wrong in China can go in both directions, we have a serious downturn in China, then it’s quite possible Chinese capital could respond by going offshore and do more buying overseas.
"So a slowdown in China, because it is a speculative slowdown, doesn’t have to mean a slowdown in demand for Australian real estate."
</body></html>

Steve Keen says the Australian property bubble could keep going through 2015

A trio of Queensland property groups have unveiled plans for a $300 million mixed-use redevelopment of the former Noosa Bowls Club site, a proposal that would deliver more than 200 new homes in one of the Sunshine Coast's most supply-constrained markets.

Kilter Property, Frank Developments and Calile Malouf Investments are behind the plans for the 1.8-hectare site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/99-noosa-drive-noosa-heads-qld-4567">99 Noosa Drive</a>, which would transform the long-vacant site into a new residential precinct featuring 208 apartments, retail, hospitality and public space.

The proposal comes as Noosa continues to grapple with housing affordability and a shortage of permanent accommodation, particularly for key workers. The site's location in Noosa Junction, close to shops, public transport and employment, aligns with the direction of Noosa Council's Housing Strategy, which encourages higher-density housing within established activity centres rather than continued urban expansion.

The draft plans include 48 affordable-by-design apartments and 48 rooming accommodation units aimed at key workers. Around 2,000 sqm of ground-floor retail and food and beverage space would activate the street frontage, alongside a new public town square and landscaped open space.

<img alt="Noosa" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2dd02f53-1360-4e51-801e-bfd61a6c980e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-26%20at%208.44.34%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=x1iNs3BSMN6Jy7YUwaBZMHRrrKX2hMpy" />

&nbsp;

Frank Developments Founder and Director Frank Licastro said the development would continue the company's focus on architecturally-led residential projects while addressing one of the region's biggest challenges.

"Not only will this project exude a sense of luxury, it will also enhance not only the built environment but also the surrounding community," Licastro said.

"Noosa's success relies on the people who live and work here. Providing well-designed accommodation for key workers is critical to supporting the local economy and ensuring the Shire can continue to thrive."

Kilter Property Co-Founder Huw Williams said the focus was on delivering additional permanent housing while creating a mixed-use destination that benefits both residents and the wider community.

"Our focus is on delivering a well-considered mixed-use project that provides more permanent housing options, supports local workers and businesses, and delivers an exceptional product for the local market," Williams said.

"The redevelopment vision aligns with the long-term evolution of Noosa Junction as a vibrant activity centre, creating a destination that enhances the area's character while delivering significant economic and community benefits."

Calile Malouf Investments, best known for its role in Brisbane's James Street precinct and The Calile Hotel, will bring its place-making experience to the project. The company recently commenced construction on The Calile Noosa hotel and says the residential development will complement its growing investment in the region.

CMI Director Cal Malouf said the aim was to create a walkable precinct combining housing, retail and hospitality while remaining true to Noosa's character.

"We see a similar opportunity in Noosa to deliver a vibrant, walkable destination that combines exceptional housing, hospitality and retail in one integrated project," Malouf said.

Brisbane-based Cavill Architects has been appointed to design the project.

Joel Robinson

Noosa Bowls Club to be redeveloped into mixed-use apartment precinct

One of Brisbane's last major riverfront redevelopment opportunities has taken a significant step forward, with Lendlease selected as the Queensland Government's preferred development partner for the former Visy site in South Brisbane.

The seven-hectare industrial site, positioned between South Bank and West End and 1.3 kilometres from the Brisbane CBD, will be transformed into a mixed-use precinct expected to deliver more than 4,000 new homes alongside extensive public open space and riverfront parkland.

The project is one of the largest urban renewal opportunities currently planned in Brisbane and is expected to play a key role in accommodating the city's growing population ahead of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Plans for the precinct include a network of riverfront promenades and boardwalks, new public plazas, parkland, amphitheatre-style gathering spaces and shared pedestrian and cycling links designed to reconnect the long-isolated site with the Brisbane River.

The Queensland Government is targeting delivery of the first homes and key public spaces before the 2032 Games, allowing the precinct to begin contributing new housing and public amenity well before the broader masterplan is complete.

The redevelopment is also expected to support more than 3,000 jobs across planning, construction and ongoing operations.

For Lendlease, the appointment adds another major urban regeneration project to its Queensland portfolio. The developer has operated in the state for more than 70 years and has delivered a number of large-scale mixed-use precincts in partnership with government.

Lendlease Development CEO Claire Johnston said the project represented one of Brisbane's most significant redevelopment opportunities.

"The transformation of the former Visy site represents a rare opportunity to reimagine one of Brisbane's most significant riverfront locations, deliver thousands of much-needed homes, and create long-term legacy," Johnston said.

"In partnership with the Queensland Government, we have the opportunity to create a new riverside destination that will help shape Brisbane's growth and how people experience the city for decades to come.

"This is exactly the type of large-scale, city-shaping development that will provide lasting benefits for Queensland, bringing together housing, jobs and world-class public spaces."

Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jarrod Bleijie said the riverfront transformation would deliver a thriving new community precinct.

“The Crisafulli Government is delivering this golden opportunity to unlock a riverfront jewel for all Queenslanders,” Deputy Premier Bleijie said.

“This is a once-in-a-generation moment to reshape a significant slice of Brisbane and deliver lasting benefits – thousands of new homes, and public spaces for all Queenslanders to enjoy well beyond the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games – unlike Labor’s plan which would have delivered zero benefits and zero new homes.

“Queensland is well and truly open for business and through partnership with the private sector, we are accelerating delivery while ensuring strong housing, community and economic outcomes."

Early works on the precinct are expected to commence in April 2027.

Lendlease selected to deliver transformative South Brisbane riverfront precinct

Eddy Haddad's <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/level-33">Level 33</a> is levelling up its approved Wollongong development, as the coastal city south of Sydney continues to prove popular in the high-density development space.

Level 33, a longtime developer in the Wollongong area, has gone through the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority to upsize its approved two-tower development on the corner of Crown Street and Gladstone Avenue, just 100 metres from Wollongong Station.

The developer currently has approval for 252 apartments across two buildings rising to 19 storeys. It is now seeking approval for 33 and 38-storey towers that would deliver 467 apartments, including 67 affordable homes.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bka-architecture">BKA Architecture</a>, the development would comprise apartments above a three-level podium with around 1,100 sqm of retail space, along with basement parking for 448 vehicles.

According to the Urban Design Report by BKA, the proposal has the capacity to "reinforce the precinct's identity by strengthening links between health, education, and transport services, while also contributing to Wollongong's ongoing evolution as a key regional centre."

Wollongong is somewhat in vogue. Between Level 33 and Urban Property Group, the two developers have several thousand apartments planned across the city.

Level 33 is currently delivering Easterly Wollongong, one of its most boutique projects to date with just 21 high-end apartments, as well as Atchison &amp; Kenny, a 329-apartment development due for completion later this year.

The developer plans to redevelop the 13,088 sqm WIN Grand megasite into <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/crown-square-216-238-keira-street-wollongong-nsw-2500">Crown Square</a>, a new $500 million precinct with nearly 600 apartments. It also has more than 900 apartments planned for the former Bunnings Warehouse site at the intersection of Gipps and Flinders streets.

Urban Property Group is also playing a major role in the city's transformation. Its five-tower Keira Place precinct will deliver more than 800 homes, and it has recently lodged plans for a further 300 apartments near Wollongong Station.

First look: Level 33 upsizes Wollongong apartment towers

Just a week after filing plans for the final stage of its major Keira Place masterplan, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> has unveiled another significant housing proposal in Wollongong, this time targeting a prominent site opposite North Wollongong Station.

The developer has lodged a State Significant Development Application for a 38-storey mixed-use tower at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/4-4a-flinders-street-north-wollongong-nsw-2500">4-4A Flinders Street</a>, around one kilometre north of the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/keira-place-wollongong-120-122-smith-street-wollongong-nsw-2500">Keira Place precinct</a> currently taking shape on the edge of the CBD.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group plans 38-storey North Wollongong tower as Keira Place expansion gathers pace" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2b6428f1-6405-4038-8476-897de440e90d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/flinders%20podium.png?VersionId=QLqEvK0OuCEwRC47oHNftrw2B1YqaHF8" />

Designed by Studio.SC, the proposal comprises a 38-storey mixed-use development containing 303 apartments, including 45 affordable housing units, alongside 174 co-living residences. The scheme also includes ground-floor retail space, extensive landscaping and public domain improvements.

Studio.SC noted in the proposal it "outlines a vision for a landmark transit-oriented mixed-use development centred around North Wollongong Station, designed to support the city’s future growth while responding to the NSW Government’s housing and planning reforms."

The architecture firm said the proposal responds to the opportunities and constraints shaping future growth within the 400-metre catchment of the station and represents "a coordinated and future-focused approach to urban intensification, contributing to the long-term evolution of North Wollongong as a connected, walkable and high-density station precinct."

The site occupies a strategic corner bounded by Flinders Street, Station Street, Stafford Street and the Princes Highway, directly opposite North Wollongong Station.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group plans 38-storey North Wollongong tower as Keira Place expansion gathers pace" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7863adad-1f71-4022-b850-f44b252738fd" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/flinders%20podium%20a.png?VersionId=WsU7av0g8_8R2tGHWxgHeFSlhu7yeY1V" />

The proposal follows Urban Property Group's recent submission for the second and final stage of Keira Place, which would deliver a further three buildings comprising 657 homes opposite Beaton Park. It builds on the first stage, which features 150 apartments across two towers and recently commenced construction.

Urban Property Group CEO Patrick Elias said breaking ground on the first stage marked a significant milestone for Wollongong and reflected the developer's long-term commitment to regional cities.

"Today's groundbreaking is about turning approvals into homes and moving quickly to deliver much-needed housing in Wollongong's city centre," Elias said.

"Keira Place will provide a diverse mix of homes close to jobs, transport and services, while setting a high benchmark for quality, durability and consumer protection."

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/urban-property-group-unveils-trio-of-towers-for-next-stage-of-new-wollongong-precinct-keira-place">Urban Property Group unveils trio of towers for next stage of new Wollongong precinct, Keira Place</a>

First look: Urban Property Group plans next major Wollongong tower

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/arada">Arada Australia</a> has wasted little time expanding its ambitions in Campsie, lodging plans for a second major project in the rapidly transforming town centre just months after unveiling its three-tower One Campsie proposal on Beamish Street.

The UAE-backed developer has now taken aim at one of the suburb’s most strategically positioned sites, filing a State Significant Development Application for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/10-north-parade-campsie-nsw-2194">33-storey mixed-use tower</a> at 10 London Street and 43 North Parade, directly opposite the future Campsie Metro Station. The proposal is currently on public exhibition and represents another significant vote of confidence in Campsie's emergence as one of Sydney’s key transit-oriented growth centres.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a>, the development would deliver 156 apartments above a podium containing retail and commercial space, creating a new residential and commercial gateway to the town centre. The scheme also includes a four-level above-ground parking podium and a dedicated residential amenity floor featuring wellness and recreation facilities. At least 10 per cent of the apartments would be allocated as affordable housing for a period of 10 years.

The proposal occupies a 1,631 sqm site bounded by London Street, North Parade and Dispensary Lane, immediately adjoining the future Metro station precinct and just metres from Beamish Street’s retail and dining strip. According to the Urban Design Report, the project seeks to deliver "a great place that prioritises human-scaled experience and provides spatial improvements to the area."

<img alt="First look: Arada doubles down in Campsie with 33-storey Metro-front tower plans" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="175a8324-015b-4856-abe3-ce6f23199fa7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/podium%20campsie.png?VersionId=742UGwXFhFBX4GEl6wX4PYIWREAgn6il" />

Woods Bagot describes the tower as a key marker within Campsie's next phase of growth.

"Located directly opposite the new Campsie Metro Station on North Parade, 10 London Street is a thoughtfully composed 33-storey mixed-use tower that contributes to the ongoing transformation of the town centre," the Architectural Design Report states. The report says the project is intended to provide "high-quality homes within a vibrant, connected urban environment, while helping define Campsie's future skyline."

A strong emphasis has been placed on the public realm. The ground floor incorporates over 500 sqm of retail space and active frontages along both London Street and North Parade, while the podium is wrapped by extensive landscaped planting intended to soften the building's scale and strengthen the pedestrian experience. The development would also widen surrounding footpaths and improve connections between the Metro station and the broader town centre.

Above the podium, residents would have access to more than 1,400 sqm of communal amenities, including a pool, gym and landscaped recreation spaces. A distinctive green-wall treatment extending across four podium levels forms a major architectural feature, helping differentiate the project within the emerging high-density precinct.

The tower's design is closely tied to the broader Campsie Town Centre Master Plan and the arrival of Sydney Metro. The Urban Design Report notes the proposal "directly supports the Campsie Town Centre Master Plan by delivering new homes in a location explicitly identified for growth, improved accessibility, and high-quality urban renewal." It adds that the project contributes to the master plan's vision for a strengthened town centre supported by thousands of new homes around the future Metro station.

<img alt="First look: Arada doubles down in Campsie with 33-storey Metro-front tower plans" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bfd17654-253e-489a-bade-6278d63db412" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/base%20campsie.png?VersionId=3roJPMQGs36dazpkhvpvbDDP73Ld.Ica" />

The application follows Arada Australia's recently lodged One Campsie project at 124–142 Beamish Street and 16–18 Ninth Avenue, where the developer is seeking approval for 346 apartments across three towers rising 24, 32 and 39 storeys. Together, the two proposals would cement Arada Australia as one of the most influential developers shaping Campsie's future urban form.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-arada-files-for-trio-of-apartment-towers-in-campsie-town-centre">First Look: Arada Australia files for trio of apartment towers in Campsie town centre</a>

Arada Australia entered the Australian market in 2024 and has rapidly assembled a significant development pipeline across Sydney. Alongside its Campsie holdings, the developer is soon to launch <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/wattle-green-2-fishburn-crescent-castle-hill-nsw-2154">Wattle Green</a> in Castle Hill, and has expanded its local operations following its acquisition of construction firm Roberts &amp; Co.

Located around 14 kilometres south-west of the Sydney CBD, the site sits at the centre of one of Sydney's fastest-changing middle-ring precincts. The Metro conversion of Campsie Station, combined with Canterbury-Bankstown Council's master planning framework, is driving significant residential intensification around Beamish Street and North Parade, with thousands of new homes expected over coming decades.

Jonathan Chancellor

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