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There will be a Senate inquiry into affordable housing this year.
Just a fortnight before Christmas, Queensland Senator Jan McLucas, Labor's Shadow Minister for Housing and Homelessness, secured the inquiry that will investigate private and public accommodation, both ownership and rental.
<a href="https://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Committees/Senate/Economics/Affordable_housing_2013/Submissions" target="_blank">The economics references committee, currently taking submissions, will report by 26 June.</a>
Of course it was only 2008 when a Senate select committee on housing affordability in Australia last reported.
So just how much this latest effort involves dusting off the prior submissions and the final report will be interesting to note. It might be optimistic to expect many new understandings emerge.
This inquiry will look at the biggest bugbear - the role of all levels of government in facilitating affordable home ownership and affordable private rental, especially the taxes and levies imposed by the Commonwealth, state, territory and local governments.
It will provide a timely look at the operation, effect and future of the National Rental Affordability Scheme.
The regulatory structures governing the roles of financial institutions and superannuation funds in the home lending and property sectors will be reviewed. 
Issues including appropriate, affordable and adaptable accommodation that  ensures emergency and essential service workers have access to affordable housing close to where they work will no doubt be addressed.
Also the important role of innovation in building materials and construction, including prefabricated and sustainable materials.
Alreeady three submissions have been lodged .. no none from our Monday morning columnist Catherine Cashmore. She's of the view that it could be just a repeat version of the 2008 report entitled “A good house is hard to find: Housing affordability in Australia” which was detailed in its content.
"It’s five years later and we seem to be no further forward," Catherine suggests.
I argue we are actually probably the poorer. And the Abbott Government's inexplicable axing of the National Housing Supply Council does create a void that can, inpart, be filled by the senate inquiry.
But not with any great hope for significant change. I am inclined to agree with economist Saul Eslake that politics – more than any other single factor – means that Australians are likely to have to live with a dysfunctional housing system for a long time yet to come.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

2014: Dusting off the Senate's 2008 housing affordability report or real progress?

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Unclear, complex and poorly drafted regulations and laws had hurt the National Rental Affordability Scheme, according to the first public submission to the 2014 Senate inquiry into housing affordability. 
Poor co-ordination between government departments had undermined property investor confidence, with the submission claiming "thousands"of property investors initial tax returns had been rejected by the ATO due to the NRAS complexity.?
The submission by Andrew Tyndale, a director of Grace Mutual, suggested the NRAS regulations were unduly complex. Grace Mutual Limited is a not-for-profit entity utlising wholesale funding in the social sector, in particular the financing thus far of more than 1,000 houses under NRAS.
Despite the flaws since its 2008 introduction, NRAS had resulted in significant numbers of affordable dwellings being constructed, Andrew Tyndale said.
"Regardless of criticisms of NRAS, it has resulted in the construction of at least 20,000 new affordable rental dwellings, directly positively impacting 30,000 tenants, building capacity and assets within the Community housing Sector, and creating or preserving thousands of jobs in home construction."
He added NRAS had brought affordable housing to the awareness of the general public suspicious of social housing.
"With the majority of built NRAS dwellings being sold to private investors, this has created widespread awareness of the need, the difference from social housing and the NRAS solution."
The submission noted the NRAS regulations were unduly complex, in particular the interpretation on capping of rental increases at original rental rate plus NRAS indexation for the full 10 years.
"This significantly disadvantages landlords who put in social tenants first, as they will not be able to increase rent, even if an essential worker becomes the tenant later.
"Many CHPs (community housing providers) bowed to State pressure and put social tenants into NRAS dwellings in the early days.
"Another example is the rejection of thousands of investor tax returns by the ATO, due to the complexity around the State’s NANE income and associated deductions.?
"Having two complex tax-related incentives (State &amp; Commonwealth) increased the complexity and cost of documentation and legal services, and raised the barriers to institutional involvement, as did linking the incentives to the NRAS Rent."
'This poor coordination between government departments undermined investor confidence.
"This occurred from the very beginning where the ATO took a hard line stance on introducing investors to benefit from NRAS, despite this being one of the foundational objectives of the program."
The submission claimed too many NRAS incentives were being wasted on university student housing.
"Large numbers of NRAS incentives (at least 4,000) were awarded for the construction of student housing.
"There appears little evidence that this has any positive impact on the middle to low-income families that were the target of the original policy."
The scheme was hoped to generate the supply of 50,000 new dwellings between July 2008 and June 2012, and the option for 50,000 more to be built subject to market demand from 2012.
 
 
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Low income NRAS incentives wasted on university student housing: Grace Mutual

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The sub-penthouse seventh floor apartment in The Bondi at Bondi Beach owned by former Home &amp; Away star Holly Brisley and husband, Paul Ford has been sold.
And this time hopefully the sale will stick.
Title Tattle gathers it fetched around $5.25 million plus just days after being passed in on a $4.7 million vendor bid at its late 2013 auction.
Its sale price has not been disclosed.
The three-bedroom apartment at 702/152 Campbell Parade, Bondi Beach had been previously exchanged for around $5.3 million in March, but the buyer, an undisclosed mining executive, didn’t settle and lost the deposit. It is understood, but unconfirmed, it was a standard 10% deposit, so adding around $530,000 to the proceeds to around $5.78 million.
It sold through the McGrath agent <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/news/holly-brisley-s-bondi-beach-apartment-sale-collapse-but-higher-price-outlook/2013110366137">Steven Chen who had the relisting initially with $5.5 million hopes</a>.
Actress Holly Brisley, best remembered for her role as a troublemaker on Home And Away, and her property investor husband, Paul, was seeking $7 million plus for their opulently appointed half-floor residence on its late 2011 listing.
It has views that stretch across the beach and bay from North Bondi to Tamarama from the northern side of the building
It has three bedrooms all with ensuite bathrooms, and its luxurious appointments feature custom American oak joinery.
There’s also C-Bus 2 intelligence system with automated blinds and curtains. 
The couple were among the buyers who snapped up a 2006 off-the-plan apartment for $6.75 million in the Bondi complex, the apartment block on Campbell Parade that replaced the Bondi Beachside Inn on its 2009 completion.
It comes with 250-square-metre internal space but is 486 square metres all up.
Not all the Bondi Beach prestige unit market has been in decline, although it still awaits formal public valuation confirmation of the September 2012 sales marketing of the nearby complex, the Pacific Bondi Beach.
The sale of the apartments in the Pacific Bondi Beach - credited as Sydney's then most successful post-global financial crisis apartment sales marketing campaign - secured bullish prices per square ranging from about $15,000 to $45,000.
<a target="_blank" href="mailto:news@propertyobserver.com.au">news@propertyobserver.com.au</a>
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Actor Holly Brisley resells Bondi Beach home with forfeited deposit windfall

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The Carss Park mansion of the champion boxer Kostya Tszyu and his wife, Natasha, has been sold for $2.9 million.
<a href="https://www.mcgrath.com.au/buy/house-carss-park-nsw-2221/198628/?searchID=34213983" target="_blank">It had been listed with $2.88 million-plus hopes hopes</a> through Sasha Tasic and Greg Tsaprazis at McGrath Estate Agents.
It had been passed in at $3.25 million on its initial July 2012 offering.
The six-bedroom, six bathroom residence had been renovated and extended since the couple bought it for $785,000 in 2000.
The 2,400-square-metre property has resort-style facilities including a tennis court and heated saltwater pool.
The Benwerrin Avenue property set a suburb record which was $2.45 million for a late 2008 sale of a five-bedroom, seven-bathroom house on a 1,865-square-metre Gnarbo Avenue block.
The Russian-born Tsyzu comes and goes from his homeland.
<a target="_blank" href="mailto:news@propertyobserver.com.au"></a><a href="mailto:news@propertyobserver.com.au">news@propertyobserver.com.au</a>
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Record price for Kostya Tszyu in Carrs Park

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Retired fast bowler Brett Lee has spent $4.25 million on a Seaforth mansion on Middle Harbour.
The deep waterfront property previously traded at $4.285 million in 2007.
Lee recently sold for around $2.375 million in Lane Cove through McGrath agent Brent Courtney.
He had bought the Lane Cove property in 2001 for $1,215,000 with his then wife, Liz Kemp.
The LJ Hooker Seaforth selling agent David Rothschild marketed the four bedroom Seaforth home as "designed for the ultimate in luxury lifestyle."
It came with infinity pool, spa, nordic-style sauna and a 20 square metre gym. There's full marina facility with registered 20 year lease. <a href="mailto:news@propertyobserver.com.au" target="_blank">news@propertyobserver.com.au</a>
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Cricket champion Brett Lee takes Middle Harbour deep waterfront opportunity

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Former VFL footballer Craig Stewart has sold his South Yarra mansion for $8.2 million to adman Scott Whybin and his wife, Cathy Hains.
It had been listed mid-year with a price tag of $8 million-plus through Andrew Baines, Nicole Gleeson and Michael Gibson, of Kay &amp; Burton. 
It was sold in August with its recent settlement paperwork only recently revealing the buyer as Whybin, the founder of the advertising agency Whybin\TBWA and Hains, who runs the thoroughbred breeding operation, Burnewang North.
Stewart, who played 150 games with Collingwood and Richmond between 1978 to 1986, had paid around $2.2 million in 1997 with wife, Melissa.
The Avoca Street house has five bedrooms, a pool and a conservatory. There's also a self-contained apartment and a cellar. The gardens regularly were part of the Open Garden Scheme.
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Adman Scott Whybin and Cathy Hains spend $8.2 million in South Yarra

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It was interesting to review RP Data's top locations with the highest 2013 yields across the nation for houses.
All 10 were within regional mining precincts. So, for mine, high risk. Perhaps only Miles, with its rural industries, has the closest to the requisite diversifaction of employment opportunity.
The highest rental yields were  in the Pilbara region of Western Australia, with the iron ore hotspots of Newman, Port Hedland and South Hedland among the top five towns.
But here's the list for your consideration. The results are based on gross estimated value rental yield.
Around the nation rental yields typically range between three to six per cent.
 
1 <a target="_blank" href="/news">Newman</a>, East Pilbara, Pilbara, WA Rental Yield: 14.0% (from 18 rental observations)
Newman is a mining town located 1,186 kilometres north of Perth. Built in the 1960's after the discovery of rich iron deposits on nearby Mount Whaleback, the town is served by Newman Airport.
2 Miles, Dalby, Darling Downs, QLD Rental Yield: 10.0% (from 49 rental observations)
Located 340 kilometres west of Brisbane on the Warrego Highway, Miles is a rural town with a population of only 1,854 according to 2011 Census data.
3 South Hedland, Port Hedland, Pilbara, WA Rental Yield: 9.5% (from 230 rental observations)
South Hedland had a population of 9,375 at the 2011 Census and was originally designed as a satellite city to Port Hedland.
4 Kambalda West, Coolgardie, South Eastern, WA Rental Yield: 9.0% (from 86 rental observations)
This small mining town is located 616 kilometres east of Perth. Kambalda was originally mined for gold but nickel was discovered soon after. In 2011, 54.5% of Kambalda West homes were owner occupied.
5 Port Hedland, Port Hedland, Pilbara, WA Rental Yield: 9.0% (from 123 rental observations)
The second largest town in the Pilbara region of Western Australia, Port Hedland is known for the shipment of iron ore. In 2011, only 19.6% of homes in Port Hedland were owner occupied.
6 Broken Hill, NSW, Far West, NSW Rental Yield: 9.0% (from 331 rental observations)
Another mining city, Broken Hill is extremely isolated with the closest major city (Adelaide) more than 500 kilometres away. Broken Hill is Australia's longest-lived mining city and in 2011, 74.6% of homes were owner-occupied.
7 Boggabri, Narrabri, Northern, NSW Rental Yield: 8.9% (from 24 rental observations)
This small town is located in north-western New South Wales. The town features two local primary schools and a railway station.
8 South Boulder, Kalgoorlie/Boulder, South Eastern, WA Rental Yield: 8.8% (from 14 rental observations)
South Boulder is located 595 kilometres east of Perth. According to 2011 Census data, the population was 1,459 and 64.7% of homes were owner-occupied.
9 Pegs Creek, Roebourne, Pilbara, WA Rental Yield: 8.8% (from 107 rental observations)
Pegs Creek is located 1252 kilometres north of Perth. Pegs Creek had a population of 1,878 in 2011 according to Census data.
10 Kambalda East, Coolgardie, South Eastern, WA Rental Yield: 8.7% (from 31 rental observations)
Kambalda East is located 616 kilometres east of Perth. Kambalda was originally mined for gold but nickel was discovered soon after. In 2011, 56.6% of Kambalda East homes were owner occupied.
  
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Mining's clean sweep on RP Data's 10 top rental yield locations

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Looking back at the year in property, our property commentators Jonathan Chancellor and Margie Blok select their important takeouts from 2013.
<img width="150" height="225" src="/images/stories/2013/09/06/jc-silhouette-5.jpg" alt="jc-silhouette-5" style="float: right;">HE SAID:
1) The strength in the spring and early summer sales success means there's not going to be as many listing leftovers languishing on the early 2014 market. And many of the recently listed forthcoming February auction stock will unquestionably get sold well ahead of their scheduled auction.
It bodes well for a quick clean start to the year, but you never know sometimes just how the market psychology can change over the summer break given particularly any arising economic factors.
I sense Sydney will record a slight moderation in price growth during early 2014. I note John McGrath expects, at some point next year, people will take their foot off the pedal and there will be less of the frenzied activity of 2013  – but he forecasts that’s not going to happen until after the Autumn selling season. He says people are really excited to see property prices moving after four sluggish years adding there's a now a new market cycle where the run on prices will continue for a few years now.
But while in broad agreement with John I warn there will be dips and peaks along the way, so timing will ensure the difference between over paying and buying well.
2) Yes the Chinese surge continued, but only in select metropolitian suburbs. They are cherry picking the trophy opportunities - especially those close to secondary and tertiary campuses - in the likes of Brighton, Toorak, Balwyn, Box Hill, Clayton and Glen Waverley, in Melbourne and Mosman, Vaucluse, Haymarket, Eastwood and Hurstville in Sydney. Mainland China buyer have snapped up $50 million worth of property transactions in Mosman including a $10 million Carrington Avenue sale this week through Belle Property. The vendors wanted $13 million on its initial 2010 listing.
If the Chinese/Australian buying interest hasn't shown up in your suburb, then your suburb will at best enjoy the ripple effect of outbid locals forced to buy in adjacent suburbs. 
3) Normally price rise momentum begins at either the top end or the cheapest buying suburbs, but this current fillip arose in the professional middle class suburbs. The middle end of the market has been the strongest while the prices in the upper brackets have barely started to improve, despite what is being often gushingly reported.
One or two prestige sales, including <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/trophy-homes/altona-point-piper-sells-for-possible-%2450-million/2013050160931">Altona</a>, of which Margie broke the news in May, and the <a href="/news">Bang &amp; Olufsen House</a>, in Point Piper were worthy of excitement, but most top end sales were ordinary, with many more are still languishing unsold. Upgrading to the top end therefore makes sense in 2014.
Investors are snapping up the cheapest offerings given the absence of the first home buyer brigade. Sometimes at prices below their last sale price especially in Sydney's south west and the NSW Central Coast. This will be the most interesting trend to follow in 2014.
 
<img width="150" height="225" src="/images/stories/2013/09/06/mb-silhouette-4.jpg" alt="mb-silhouette-4" style="float: left;">SHE SAID:
1) There was a degree of sensationalism about the market “booming” in the mainstream weekend press reportage.
Certainly, the market was robust for properties in the low to medium price brackets of capital cities, largely due to heightened investor demand and lower interest rates.
Sydney showed a year of meaningful growth which resulted in many real estate agencies reaping rewards with increased sales turnover compared with the previous year. But the rate of growth this year was less than the real booms I've seen. Residex's John Edwards has Sydney house prices up 10% over the past year and it's worth remembering that for the year ending June 2010, Sydney house price growth was 17%; growth for the year ending July 2002 was 23% and growth in 1989 was 38%. A little research helps puts the latest scenario in context.
Also it’s most important to note suburbs vary greatly when it comes to the state of the market, and within those suburbs some properties perform better than others. In our capital cities, there are thousands of local markets moving in in various directions and at different speeds.
 A handful of strong sale prices within a suburb does not translate to a booming market. It was wrong to conclude that the high auction clearance rates were necessarily accompanied by an across the board price surge.
 I agree with Hotspotting’s Terry Ryder who sagely reported in Property Observer last week that there is no such entity as “the Australian property market”.
From my observant point of view - both anecdotally and data driven - 2013 shaped up short of the "boom" speciously reported by much of the metropolitan newspaper industry.
2) Buyers were price sensitive about properties in the top price brackets.
During the year, and particularly for the past four months, real estate agents have been stressing in their weekly newsletters that this top section of the market is not experiencing the same strength as the lower end.
I agree with the opinion of Double Bay agent Bob Guth, a principal of Bradfield Cleary, who late last month shared his insightful view about the market saying the lower to middle sector of the market in the Eastern Suburbs, up to $3,000,000, was strong with the possibility of the upward swing of 2013 continuing next year.  However he noted the top end was "very much confidence driven and any sustainable improvement will depend on the overall economy – which may be problematical.”
3) Lifestyle property sales continue to drag the chain. Whether it be the Southern Highlands, Port Douglas or Mornington Peninsula, these discretionary purchase properties have lingered on the market for months due to a dearth of buyers.
Perhaps the occasional spurt in activity but the appetite for expensive lifestyle properties (which also are expensive to maintain) remains diminished following the global financial crisis with the professional classes worried about job security. Merchant bankers, who no longer reap big bonuses, are not splurging on luxury weekenders.
Also, people find that they cannot spare the time to constantly visit lifestyle properties which are a nice dream, but can become an albatross.
It seems travel is the easier lifestyle option being cheaper and more convenient.
One suburb which bucked the trend in terms of activity this year was Palm Beach on Sydney’s northern beaches peninsula where 72 properties traded during 2013, according to RP Data. The suburb’s top 2013 price was the Nankervis family’s Sunrise Road property which traded for $10.6 million in August. Listed in January, the trophy residence stands on an 1891 square metre block with uninterrupted and never-to-be-built-out northerly views - a Susan Rothwell house in Will Dangar gardens. The price recovery wasn't there as this one came on initial listing with $14 million hopes.
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Looking back at the property year - three important takeouts from 2013: He said/She said

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House price growth in the top performing Sydney suburbs has done markedly better compared to the growth in top performing apartment suburbs, according to the latest findings from Onthehouse’s property research arm Residex. There was also greater weakness amid the poorest performing units than the house localities.
"Given all the hype around units, this may surprise buyers," the consulting analyst for Onthehouse, John Edwards noted.
Historically houses have outperformed units in capital growth - not necessarily by huge margins - and then of course over a few recent years we started to see good capital growth levels with apartments sometimes exceeding that of houses.
The brief trend came amid the push towards apartment living due to a demographic shifts, the shortage of housing, affordability, as well as changing lifestyles and the increased importance of proximity.
But it appears issues of increased apartment supply has possibly caught up with the trend which appears to be returning back to normal.
Edwards told me in 2013 Sydney houses had outperformed units in all respects.
"This comes down to house and land supply not meeting demand. A shortage of stock in the house and land market is driving up prices up”.
He stresses his list of best performers are indicators of how a market is going, and "not necessarily the place to rush out and buy in."
“Strong performing suburbs are often areas which have already seen the majority of their growth for this current cycle”, he said.
Mr Edwards said that knowing where a suburb is in its growth cycle was "key" to identifying the opportunity within that area. 
“If you combine the knowledge about a suburb’s growth cycle along with research data, suburb information and if you find out what the public considers the best streets are, then good buying decisions should result.”
Capital Growth Best Performers - Houses
<img height="197" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/12/18/jc_dec_18_three.png" alt="jc_dec_18_three">
Source: Onthehouse.com.au / Residex
Capital Growth Best Performers – Units
<img height="217" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/12/18/jc_dec_18_four.png" alt="jc_dec_18_four">
Source: Onthehouse.com.au / Residex
Capital Growth: Worst Performing Suburbs – Houses:
<img height="196" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/12/18/jc_dec_18_one.png" alt="jc_dec_18_one">
Source: Onthehouse.com.au / Residex
Capital Growth: Worst Performing Suburbs – Units:
<img height="218" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/12/18/jc_dec_18_two.png" alt="jc_dec_18_two">
Source: Onthehouse.com.au / Residex
Looking overall Edwards noted the median value of houses in Sydney was now nudging the $750,000 mark following a high rate of growth. It sits at $749,500 for houses with units median value in Sydney at $521,500. There has been 10.5% annual growth for Sydney houses compared to 4.3% for Sydney units in the year to November 2013.
"Residex models predicted growth, but not to this magnitude," <a target="_blank" href="https://www.onthehouse.com.au/home/">he said</a>.
But there had been periods when unit growth exceded house growth including the 2009-2010 financial year when Residex tracked annual Sydney house growth at 4.25%  compared to 6.5% for units. At that time the 10 year growth gap was a narrow 6.8% annually for houses and 6.35% for units.
And the 20 year growth data puts Sydney houses at 6.97% annually compared to 6.18% for units. So not that bigger difference with investors therefore wisely considering both investment types in their portfolio.   
<a target="_blank" href="mailto:news@propertyobserver.com.au">news@propertyobserver.com.au</a>
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Houses back outperforming units - the pronounced trend amid 2013's best and worst performing Sydney suburbs

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The Toorak home of the former St Kilda Football club director and lawyer John Gdanski and his property developer wife, Gaby Tomkin has been sold.
It's a 2010-built Hill Street house in Paul Bangay gardens came with $7 million plus hopes when <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/victoria/nicholas-day-designed-toorak-home-seeks-%247-million-plus-trophyhomes/2013060261816">Property Observer wrote of its June listing</a>.
With the family desirous of more space, it was initially listed through <a target="_blank" href="https://www.kayburton.com.au/property/17-hill-street-toorak">Kay &amp; Burton agent Darren Lewenberg </a> and more recently in conjunction with <a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-toorak-115055363">Melbourne Sotheby's International agent Greg Herman</a>.
Ms Tomkin designed the four level home in collaboration with architect Nicholas Day with all four bedrooms having ensuites. There's also a study, reception hall with a chandelier from Murano, Italy, and spacious living areas.
Its second-floor sitting room comes with balcony featuring city views.
The house has a six car garage with lift to the living quarters.
There's a gym, sauna, pool, home cinema, even a table tennis recreation room.
The listing was endeavouring to set a street record which has stood at $6.85 million since the 2006 sale through Kay &amp; Burton agent Michael Gibson of an old style two storey home on 1,750 square metres that was featured in the open garden scheme.
Title Tattle recalls the six-bedroom residence had a summer house, pool, floodlit modgrass tennis court and views of the city, but only in winter. It was sold in 2006 by the former Vodafone director Philip Cornish and his wife, Caroline who had paid $1.95 million in 1987.
No sales price indication has been given on the street's latest sale. Kay &amp; Burton have also secured Hill Street's two other recent sales including a $4.78 million house which became available at a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.kayburton.com.au/property/23-hill-street-toorak">$2,500 a weekly rental</a>. There has also been the sale of an Allan Powell-designed home at an undisclosed price.
<a target="_blank" href="mailto:news@propertyobserver.com.au">news@propertyobserver.com.au</a>
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Nicholas Day-designed bespoke Toorak mansion sale 

Buying into a masterplanned community often means committing to a vision still years from taking shape. At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a>, that vision is already visible.

Residents have moved into the completed first stage, landscaped spaces are established, and the next chapter is now underway. Stage 1 has been completed and settled, with Stage 2 now selling off-the-plan.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/pbd-architects">PBD Architects</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> combines attainable apartment living with sustainability initiatives rarely seen at this price point, including rooftop solar, battery storage and a resident EV-sharing program.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6RNt3AvtBpI?si=JUhuCV2ZRXsYaoJZ" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Located on Schofi​elds Road, just moments from Tal​lawong Metro Station and Schof​ields Train Station, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> has been designed to appeal to a broad mix of buyers, from first-home purchasers looking for a foothold in Sy​dney's property market to downsizers seeking a connected, low-maintenance lifestyle.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> has been conceived as a thoughtfully planned masterplanned community that will evolve over multiple stages, with buyers now able to secure one, two and three-bedroom apartments within a neighbourhood that is already beginning to establish its identity.

One of the project's defining features is its focus on sustainability. Solar energy systems, battery storage and future EV charging infrastructure have been incorporated throughout the development, reflecting a long-term approach to both environmental performance and everyday convenience.

Sustainability sits at the centre of the development's vision, with solar energy systems, battery storage and future EV charging infrastructure integrated throughout the community.

That emphasis on future-ready living extends beyond the technology. Landscaped communal gardens, outdoor gathering spaces and plans for a future retail precinct aim to create a neighbourhood where residents can access daily conveniences without travelling far from home.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149637 project_image_fid=351027]

The apartments themselves have been designed with liveability front of mind. Rather than chasing maximum density, the focus has been placed on creating practical homes with generous natural light, usable layouts and strong connections to outdoor space.

Importantly, these design principles have been applied consistently across the one, two and three-bedroom apartment offerings.

The appeal of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> is also closely linked to its location within Syd​ney's rapidly evolving north-west growth corridor. Over the past decade, major infrastructure investment has transformed the area, with new transport links, business precincts and community facilities reshaping suburbs like Talla​wong and Schofiel​ds.

The agent says buyers are increasingly recognising the area's long-term potential.

"Typical buyers that we're finding across <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> especially are your first-home buyers, your investors, your upsizers as well as your downsizers," Hawes says.

Connectivity remains one of the project's strongest drawcards. Residents have access to both Tallaw​ong Metro Station and Schofi​elds Train Station, providing links to the Sydn​ey CBD, Norw​est Business Park, Macquari​e Park and other major employment hubs. Retail centres including Rous​e Hill Town Centre and Sch​ofields Village are also nearby, alongside schools, parks and future healthcare infrastructure.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149637 project_image_fid=351031]

For Stage 1 resident Roji, it is the balance between convenience and comfort that has defined the experience of living at Kew.

"For me, it's a balance of quality and convenience," she says. "Everything I need is right here."

"If I wanted to catch the train, Scho​fields Station is just around the corner. Tallaw​ong Metro connects me to the city."

More importantly, she says, the development has delivered something that cannot be measured in floorplans or specifications.

"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> feels like home."

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As Stage 2 enters the market, that lived experience may be one of the project's strongest selling points. Buyers are not purchasing into an untested concept or a future promise. They are joining a community that is already taking shape.

Ongoing investment in transport, retail, healthcare and public open space continues to strengthen the appeal of Syd​ney's north-west growth corridor, while <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a>'s established first stage provides buyers with a tangible sense of the community's future direction.

For a limited time, buyer can secure a new home at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> with just a $10,000.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=149637]

Joel Robinson

Kew Tallawong: A growing community taking shape in Sydney's north-west

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/freecity">Freecity</a> has received development approval for its 51-storey mixed-use tower at 153-157 Walker Street, North Sydney, set to be one of the tallest mixed-use residential-led buildings in one of Sydney’s most sought-after commercial and residential addresses.

Lodged as a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) through the Housing Delivery Authority (HDA) pathway and approved by the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure following a comprehensive public exhibition and submissions process, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/153-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">the project</a> will deliver 296 apartments, alongside a 170-room, luxury hotel, activated retail and significant public domain improvements.

Situated just 200 metres from Victoria Cross Metro Station, on one of the largest developable sites in North Sydney, the development will rise to 234 metres, making it one of the tallest buildings in the suburb. With an end value of approximately $1.5 billion, the project responds directly to the NSW Government’s mandate to accelerate housing delivery in well-located, transit-connected areas.

<img alt="Freecity gets green light for mixed-use residential and hotel tower in North Sydney" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="192ec455-94bf-4e01-83ef-922b1b269d67" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Freecity%20-%20Walker%20Street%20North%20Sydney%201%20RESIZED%20.jpg?VersionId=Bzqp0SBHCDvLAHjA4QXkjuGoOEIh73Jl" />

The apartment mix will cater to a broad range of buyers, with 65 studio and one-bedroom apartments, 139 two-bedroom residences, 35 three-bedroom apartments, 48 four-bedroom homes, and nine penthouses. Residents will have access to a dedicated amenity level on Level 33, featuring a swimming pool with views towards the Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House and North Sydney CBD, as well as a gym, library, shared kitchen, lounge and outdoor entertaining areas.

The hotel will occupy the lower six levels of the building and include meeting and function spaces, a wellness centre with gym, yoga studio, swimming pool and sauna, further strengthening North Sydney's growing hospitality offering.

At ground level, the development has been designed to improve pedestrian connections through the precinct. More than 700 sqm of retail space will activate the street frontage, while a landscaped through-site link connecting Walker Street, Little Walker Street and Doris Fitton Park will provide new public open space with seating, paving and extensive native landscaping.

Freecity Group Co-Founder and Joint CEO Tony Sun said the project represents one of the most significant development opportunities currently available in North Sydney.

"This is one of the most significant development sites in North Sydney and it comes at a pivotal moment for the precinct," Sun said.

"North Sydney is undergoing a genuine transformation, and this project will contribute housing the city urgently needs while creating a landmark destination."

Executive Director of Development Michael Romano said demand for both residential and hotel accommodation would continue to strengthen as the Metro precinct matures.

"The structural demand for high-quality housing and hotel accommodation in North Sydney is compelling, and will only grow as the precinct continues to evolve around the new Metro station," Romano said.

Architectus has designed the tower, orientating the apartments to maximise views towards Sydney Harbour while introducing a sculpted façade intended to respond to light, wind and the surrounding skyline.

Architectus Principal Marko Damic said the design sought to create a tower that contributes to the public realm as much as the skyline.

"We wanted to design a tower that doesn't just sit in the skyline but actively participates and contributes to city life," Damic said.

First look: Freecity gets green light for mixed-use apartment and hotel tower in North Sydney

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/abadeen">Abadeen</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/perifa">PERIFA</a> have celebrated the topping out of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf,</a> marking a significant milestone in the delivery of one of Syd​ney's most anticipated waterfront communities.

Located on Sydney's harbourfront at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/putney-nsw-2112">Putney</a>, the project has now reached its highest structural point, with construction progressing strongly towards completion in 2027. 
&nbsp; 
The milestone was celebrated on-site with project partners Phoenix Property Investors, Mitsubishi Estate Asia, Versatile Construction, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, consultants and stakeholders, to recognise the collective effort behind the transformation of the historic waterfront site into a vibrant new residential, marina and lifestyle destination.

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&nbsp; 
<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> will deliver a mix of waterfront residences and terraces, complemented by a private 36-berth marina, waterfront dining opportunities and a revitalised foreshore designed to reconnect the community with the river's edge. 
&nbsp; 
Abadeen Executive Chairman and Founder Justin Brown said the project represented a rare opportunity to create the next chapter in Sydn​ey's long history of successful waterfront precincts. 
&nbsp; 
"Throughout Sydney, some of the city's most sought-after addresses have emerged from carefully considered waterfront precincts such as Woolloom​ooloo Wharf, Walsh Bay and Breakfast Point," Brown said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362566] 
&nbsp; 
"What makes these places so successful is that they become much more than residential developments," Brown said.

"They bring together homes, hospitality, marina facilities, public spaces and a strong sense of community in locations where future supply is incredibly limited."

Brown has long described absolute waterfront land in Sy​dney as "finite."

"Once these opportunities are developed, they are rarely replicated. That's why Syd​ney's waterfront precincts have consistently demonstrated strong demand and long-term value growth over many decades. 
&nbsp; 
"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> is one of the few remaining opportunities to secure a residence within a masterplanned waterfront community that combines direct water access, marina ownership opportunities and a genuine village lifestyle just moments from the Sy​dney CBD."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362564] 
&nbsp; 
PERIFA Founder and Managing Director Fabrizio Perilli said the project reflected a shared commitment to delivering exceptional places that create long-term value for residents and the broader community. 
&nbsp; 
"The topping out milestone is a significant achievement for the Versatile Group and a testament to the collaboration between all project partners, consultants and contractors involved," Perilli said. 
&nbsp; 
"Beyond the residences themselves, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> will establish a new waterfront destination that celebrates the history, character and lifestyle of this unique location while creating a lasting legacy for future generations."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=291195] 
&nbsp; 
Construction is being delivered by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/versatile">Versatile Construction</a>, with structural works now substantially complete across the precinct. Attention will progressively shift to the construction of the waterview terraces, apartment façades, services and interior fit-out works over the coming months. 
&nbsp; 
With limited residences and marina berths remaining, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> continues to attract strong interest from owner occupiers and downsizers seeking a premium waterfront lifestyle within close proximity to Putne​y Village, Rh​odes, Top Ry​de and the Syd​ney CBD. 
&nbsp; 
As one of the last opportunities to secure a residence within a new masterplanned waterfront community on Sy​dney Harbour, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> is expected to remain a highly sought-after address for years to come.

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Abadeen, PERIFA, top out Putney Wharf harbourfront precinct

Kew has long been regarded as one of Melbourne's premier residential suburbs. It's a location defined by its grand period homes, leafy streets and some of the city's most prestigious schools, yet it has often sat just outside the spotlight cast on neighbouring Hawthorn and Camberwell.

Increasingly, however, buyers are recognising that Kew offers much of what draws people to those suburbs, with a quieter residential setting, exceptional amenity and long-term owner-occupier appeal.

Within a few minutes' walk, residents can access Kew Junction, one of Melbourne's most established village centres. Cafés, bakeries, restaurants, supermarkets, boutique retailers and everyday services are all on the doorstep, with local favourites including Centonove, Adeney Milk Bar Cafe, and Frank &amp; Harri creating the type of walkable lifestyle that has become increasingly difficult to find in Melbourne's inner east. Beyond the immediate neighbourhood, Glenferrie Road's renowned shopping and dining precinct in Hawthorn and the retail, dining and entertainment offerings of Camberwell Junction are both just a short drive or tram ride away.

The suburb is equally well connected. Tram routes 48 and 109 provide direct access to the CBD, while High Street and Cotham Road connect residents to the wider inner east.&nbsp;Nearby access to the Eastern Freeway also places the Yarra Valley, Mornington Peninsula and Melbourne Airport within easy reach, adding another layer of convenience for weekend travel.&nbsp;It's a rare combination of connectivity and tranquillity, where quiet residential streets sit just moments from some of Melbourne's most established shopping and lifestyle precincts.

For families, Kew remains one of Melbourne's most tightly held addresses. Carey Baptist Grammar School, Xavier College, Methodist Ladies' College, Trinity Grammar, Ruyton Girls' School and Genazzano FCJ College are all nearby, while the Yarra River parklands, walking trails and sporting clubs provide another layer of lifestyle appeal.

It's within this established pocket that developer Ricdanic is delivering <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/wimba-ave-kew-9-11-wimba-avenue-kew-vic-3101">Wimba Ave</a>, a boutique collection of just 13 residences across two buildings named after its location on the tree-lined Wimba Avenue,&nbsp;within one of Kew's most prestigious pockets where homes have been known to sell up to and above $8 million.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140755 project_image_fid=354809]

The residences prioritise the space that buyers are increasingly searching for but struggling to find in established suburbs. Living areas extend beyond five metres in width, ceiling heights range from three to five metres, and apartments open onto private gardens averaging around 125 sqm. Selected residences also feature balconies of approximately 60 sqm, while premium inclusions include Miele appliances, double-glazed windows, EV readiness, fully electric systems and a 7.2 NatHERS energy rating.

Architect Chris Idle says opportunities to deliver homes of this scale within established suburbs have become increasingly uncommon.

"There are very few opportunities to do these kinds of developments in leafy, established suburbs," he says. "To get this level of amenity, natural light, and architectural freedom in such a setting is extremely rare."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140755 project_image_fid=366267]

The architecture draws on Kew's established character through the use of handmade Krause bricks, while landscaping by John Patrick introduces 23 plant species, including nine native varieties, creating an environment which focuses just as much on nature as it does the building.

Construction on Wimba Ave is well underway by renowned high-end builder Sinjen, with completion expected in late 2027. Prices start from $2.22 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=140755]

The enduring appeal of Kew's tree-lined streets and village lifestyle

"For me, it's the location." That was the first thing Chris pointed to when reflecting on why he and his wife Marita decided to purchase at Candela Ivanhoe, the under-construction new apartment development by Salter Brothers in the heart of the north-eastern M​elb​ourne​ suburb. ​

"We've lived here before… everything is here," Chris said.

"Our doctor is around the corner, there's dentists, pilates, everything we need, restaurants, fast food places, two train stations, Ivanhoe and Darebin, both in walking distance. You don't need anything else."

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/X8K0Bozug7A?si=Puwc6vx_ZO0qQZF8" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Just 10 kilometres from Melbo​urn​e's CBD, Ivanhoe combines direct city connectivity with the amenity of an established village community. Residents have access to highly regarded schools, expansive parklands, public transport, and a thriving retail and hospitality precinct centred around Upper Heidelberg Road, all within a neighbourhood that has retained its leafy character despite its proximity to the city.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/candela-ivanhoe-40-upper-heidelberg-road-ivanhoe-vic-3079">Candela Ivanhoe</a> sits within the heart of this established landscape, positioned just moments from Ivanhoe Village and within walking distance of many of the suburb's most sought-after amenities.

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From Candela, residents can access cafés, grocers, wine bars, restaurants and essential services on foot, while Ivanhoe Station and Darebin Station provide direct connectivity across Mel​bour​ne. The development is also surrounded by some of the suburb's best-known lifestyle destinations, including Pinkie, Laurent, Enni, Docasa and Woodfire Pizza e Cucina, alongside Ivanhoe Plaza, Woolworths, pharmacies and specialty retailers.

Green space is another defining feature of the suburb. Darebin Parklands, Ivanhoe Park, Nellie Ibbot Park and the Yarra River trail network provide extensive opportunities for recreation, while Ivanhoe Golf Course and Ivanhoe Tennis Club continue to underpin the area's long-established lifestyle appeal.

The suburb's education offering further strengthens demand. Ivanhoe Grammar School, Ivanhoe Girls' Grammar School, Mary Immaculate Primary School and Ivanhoe Primary School have helped establish the area as one of Melbou​​rne's most sought-after schooling precincts, attracting families and downsizers alike who want to remain connected to the area.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=342 project_image_fid=357510]

While location was the priority for Marita and Chris, the project itself also needed to meet their expectations.

"Whilst location was paramount, I was also looking at design of the environment and Candela ticked every box," Marita said.

"We're just thrilled with our choice."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=342 project_image_fid=336455]

Developed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/salter-brothers">Salter Brothers</a>, Candela Ivanhoe has been designed to complement its village setting, with an emphasis on generous floorplans, natural light and practical everyday living.

Residents will have access to a range of shared amenities, including a communal rooftop garden and dedicated residential lounge, complemented by a ground-floor café and lifestyle wellbeing centre, helping foster the sense of community already emerging among future owners.

That approach has resonated strongly with the market. More than 90 per cent of purchasers at Candela Ivanhoe are owner-occupiers, with buyers ranging from downsizers and second-home buyers to young families and first home buyers, creating a genuinely multi-generational community of grandparents, parents and children. It reflects a broader shift across Melbo​​urne's apartment market, where buyers are increasingly prioritising neighbourhood quality, lifestyle amenity and long-term liveability.

Currently under construction by Ironside, Candela Ivanhoe comprises 58 apartments. Candela Ivanhoe is scheduled for completion in the coming months, and residents can move in from September. One to four bedroom residences, prices from $649,000 and limited opportunities remaining.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=342]

Jonathan Chancellor

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