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Australia’s richest woman Gina Rinehart has the former Mosman home of her daughter Hope Welker listed among the 800 plus Sydney auctions scheduled for December 14 auction.
The contemporary Bradleys Head Road house (pictured below), bought in 2007 for $5.4 million, has reported $5 million plus auction hopes. Ms Welker and her husband, Ryan Welker, vacated the property as they departed for New York in 2011, around the time the family dispute over control of the family's mining interests became public through litigation.
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/2013/11/29/mos]}
The bumper spring auction season - with a 900 plus Sydney record this weekend and Melbourne's second highest ever at 1327 - is set to spill over into early summer.
Indeed Australian Property Monitors shows both capital have 100 plus listings (see below) on the December 21 weekend.
The 2013 auction listing schedule:
Satu                      Sydney                    Melbourne

7/9/13                   211                         420

14/9/13                 628                        833

21/9/13                 556                         853

28/9/13                583                         45

5/10/13                 257                         719

12/10/13               721                         866

19/10/13               634                         927

26/10/13              688                        1,358

2/11/13                 744                         120

9/11/13                 796                         965

16/11/13               773                         1,078

23/11/13               751                         937

30/11/13               900                        1,327

7/12/13                 834                         1,292

14/12/13               887                        1,246

21/12/13               113                          110
Source: Australian Property Monitors
With this wekend's 902 offerings, Sydney's inner west is the busiest with 123 scheduled, followed by the south with 116, the west with 78 and the city and east with 70.
Epping in the city's north will offer the most prospects this weekend with 15 homes scheduled to go under the hammer. Maroubra and St Ives have 10 auctions each followed by Carlingford with nine and Mosman with eight auctions scheduled.
In Melbourne this weekend the most popular suburban region for auctions is the inner bayside with 228 properties scheduled to go under the hammer. Next busiest region is the inner city, with 213, closely followed by the inner east with 208, the west with 199 and the north east with 177.
Preston has 24 properties scheduled for auction, the busiest suburb. Brighton will also be busy with 22, along with Richmond and Elwood with 20 each, Toorak with 18 and Glen Iris and Mentone each with 17 homes up for sale, according to APM.
It's not just auction sales strength. Sydney's private treaty market strength continued into November, according to the latest Australian Property Monitors data on days on market and required discount to secure a private treaty sale.
<img alt="insights-nov-27-one" height="757" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/11/28/insights-nov-27-one.gif">
Source: Australian Property Monitors
<img alt="insights-nov-27-two" height="752" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/11/28/insights-nov-27-two.gif">
Source: Australian Property Monitors
<a href="mailto:news@propertyobserver.com.au" target="_blank">news@propertyobserver.com.au</a>
 
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Gina Rinehart joins last-ditch pre-Christmas Sydney auction sale hopefuls

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Builder Peter Adams has listed his Seal Rocks pavilion style property.
The <a href="https://www.uniqueestates.com.au/Sales-Detail.aspx?id=ue338&amp;wlid=4470ea46-20dc-4aa5-bd53-def52d68e871" target="_blank">12 Kinka Road</a> offering, aka Seal Rocks House, comes with $3 million plus hopes through Unique Estates. 
Seal Rocks, featured in the recently released movie, Adoration, starring Naomi Watts and Ben Mendelsohn, has fewer than 100 properties.
The Port Stephens retreat, at the end of an unpaved road, is a tightly held bushland enclave some two and half hours drive from the Sydney CBD.
The perfect place to watch the migrating whales and their calves frolic.
The light-filled open-plan kitchen, dining and living with double height soaring ceilings through to the outdoor entertaining decking. There's around 800 square metres of floor space.
Peter Adams, the Adams Timber heir, bought in 1999 with the $350,000 purchase falling $55,000 short of the retreat's prior highest residential sale price when the builder Stephen Grant had bought his second property in 1998.
Prices at Seal Rocks hit $580,000 in 2002 as the new money  moved in. Karen Lange-Blom, wife of former Cinema Plus chairman Gary Blom, had spent $472,000 in 2001. The then Sydney Aquarium managing director, John Burgess had paid $465,000 in 1999 with wife Pauline.
Prices hit $1.55 million in 2004, then $2.35 million in 2005. Nothing quite as high in more recent time though there was a $1.95 million sale in 2007 and a $2.075 million sale in 2010.
<div>This year there have been two sales at $680,000 and $900,000.</div>
The four bedroom, five bathroom oceanfront reserve house at 12 Kinka Road  was built on its 800 square metre block in 1999.
It generates about $70,000 a year in holiday rentals, the Unique Estates listing agent Sally Taylor says. 
Adoration is director Anne Fontaine's adaptation of British writer Doris Lessing's novella, The Grandmothers.
<a target="_blank" href="mailto:news@propertyobserver.com.au">news@propertyobserver.com.au</a>
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'Adored' Seal Rocks pavilion style property seeks record price buyers

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Tasmania recorded the nation's highest level of mortgage arrears for a second consecutive quarter, according to the latest report by Standard &amp; Poor's Ratings Services.
Six of the 10 worst-performing postcodes were in New South Wales, the standard mix of coastal areas and suburbs on the outskirts of Sydney.
Overall Australia's level of arrears for subprime loans in the June quarter was the lowest in 13 years, but loans greater than 30 days in arrears totalled 1.68% in Tasmania.
Next was New South Wales, at 1.48%, and Queensland, at 1.40%, according to the report, RMBS Performance Watch: Australia which compiles data from residential mortgage-backed securities which are a means for lenders to raise funds by selling bundles of loans to investors. It involves a high proportion of non-bank originators and financial institutions and subprime and low-doc lenders.
But there's also now the latest RP Data analysis that details the weakness of the Tasmanian property market saying Hobart has experienced the weakest performing market over the past year of all capital cities with home values falling by 0.7%. The median house sale sits at $325,000 and units at $236,000.
"The Hobart market weakness has been consistent over recent years with it also the weakest market over the past five years," RP Data's Tim Lawless noted.
"Unfortunately most other indicators remain weaker now than they were a year ago," he added.
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Hobart Property Values
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? 6.0% quarter
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? 0.7% year
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<li>
? 1.8%  per annum over last five years
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? 2.9% per annum over past 10 years
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? 7.3% per annum over past 15 years
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? 15.2% from peak
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<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/news/tasmania-s-unemployment-rate-holds-back-property-investment-but-watch-growing-overseas-student-numbers/2013110666223">I've recently written on Tasmania's high overseas student numbers</a>, but tourism activity on the island is expected to drive the brightest prospects for Tasmania's economic growth.
Earlier this month the Tasmanian motoring group RACT added the 60-room Freycinet Lodge, 60-room Cradle Mountain Chateau, and Strahan Village to its property portfolio.
It already includes the Grand Mercure Hobart Central Apartments, which it bought in partnership with the RACV for $25 million in June.
The motoring group will also take ownership of Gordon River Cruises.
The Farrell family’s Federal Group will maintain a small investment in the tourism assets with the deal done through Knight Frank Tasmania managing director Scott Newton. 
 The four assets are currently profitable but were operating at below preferred occupancy levels.
The RACT hopes its member base and seven million mainland affiliate automobile members will be willing tourists.
The deal comes as signs of an improvement emerge in Tasmanian tourism.
For the year ending June 2013, Tourism Tasmania reported that visitor numbers were up 12% to 961,600.
The total nights spent in Tasmanian hotels rose 7% with visitors spending $1.5 billion over the year which was 10% more than in 2012, the Tasmanian Minister for Tourism Scott Bacon said.
Federal still owns Hobart's Wrest Point casino and Launceston's Country Club casino along with the luxury resort Saffire on the state's east coast and the Henry Jones Art Hotel in Hobart.
The sale has likely freed up capital for Federal to develop a luxury hotel at Port Arthur.
The 4.5 Star Freycinet Lodge (pictured below) in coastal bushland on the shores of Great Oyster Bay. It includes 60 one and two-roomed cabins, restaurants and conference facilities. The property is leasehold with 41 years remaining, issued by Parks and Wildlife Service.
<img alt="freycinet-nov-27-one" height="317" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/11/27/freycinet-nov-27-one.jpg">
Photo courtesy of Freycinet Lodge
The 4 Star Cradle Mountain Chateau includes 60 standard twin rooms, king spa rooms and deluxe split level suites, restaurants, bars and conference facilities.
Strahan Village, located on the bank of Macquarie Harbour on Tasmania's west coast. It features include two main areas of accommodation, four food and beverage areas including Hamers Hotel, View 42 Restaurant &amp; Lounge, Fish Café and Banjo’s Bakery and various tourism activities.
Gordon River Cruises is located on the Gordon River. 
<a target="_blank" href="mailto:news@propertyobserver.com.au">news@propertyobserver.com.au</a>
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Motoring group RACT driving Tasmanian tourism boost as mortgage arrears linger

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The latest off-market $9 million plus sale on Elfrida Street, Mosman to Chinese buyers - double anything prior on the street - caps off a year of sustained buying interest in Mosman by the Chinese/Australian community.  The 1,400 square metre property last sold at $2.6 million in 2004.
I make it around 18 house purchases at $2 million plus this year in Mosman, so hovering at 10% of sales.
<div>
Mosman's top sale of the year has been to a Chinese buyer who paid close to $14 million for the Middle Harbour property sold by hedge fund trader Phil Mathews.
The sale which is yet to settle was to a Shanghai businessman with children already in Sydney through Richard Simeon of Richardson &amp; Wrench Mosman. It had last traded at $12.3 million when bought from one-time retirement village property developer Malcolm McLaurin, who'd set the then Middle Harbour waterfront record $8 million in 2001. The four-storey Julian Street property adjoins the former Joel's Boatshed.
Mathews is also selling a James Street, Mosman property which has views over Chinamans Beach, the Sydney Harbour location named after the Chinese residents who had market gardens and salt pans there until the early 1900s.
The year kicked off with developer Peter Papas selling a new house on Bay Street, Beauty Point to the Huang family from China for $12.8 million in a sale facilitated by Monika Tu of Black Diamondz.
Last month Chinese property developer Guoxun Wang and his wife Dajuan Cheng, from north-east China, bought a $5.8 million four-bedroom house on Delecta Avenue, Beauty Point in another off-market transaction, purchasingfrom Susie Danias of Danias Timber.
That one was Sydney's second golden ticket visa associated property sales that are set to increasingly flow from Australia’s scheme for attracting wealthy business migrants - the ­Significant Investor Visa.
This scheme is actually set to be revamped by the new Immigration Minister Scott Morrison who believes the scheme is “vague and unnecessarily prescriptive”.
Wealthy individuals applying for a ­Significant Investor Visa must invest at least $5 million in Commonwealth, state or territory government bonds or ASIC-­regulated ­managed funds or invest directly in an Australian proprietary company.
But Mr Morrison says the investment criteria is under review to ensure greater flexibility and a wider range of qualifying investments. He also wants to expedite the current turnaround time of nine months by boosting the ­capacity for assessments once the scheme had been remodelled.
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<div></div>
<div>The most recent tally had 90% of the 435 applications as Chinese nationals - who are unlikely to repatriate the money back to China at any time after approvals. Under the current rules, investors must invest $5 million or more in the approved investment fund. Then, after they are approved, they will be eligible for a Business Innovation and Investment (Provisional) (Subclass 188) visa which will last for four years.
Then providing the investors spend at least 160 days in Australia over that four year period and maintain their investment in the approved fund, they can apply for a Significant Investor permanent resident visa (subclass 888)
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<div></div>
<div></div>
<div></div>
<div>Some 28 Significant Investor Visa holders across Australia have been approved by the Department of Immigration with the first purchaser using the visa in NSW then buying, with some fanfare, an $8.5 million contemporary home in Vaucluse in September.</div>
A property purchase does not qualify as the investment.
<div>There's no doubting the strength of their buying interest although most Mosman sales are still to locals, known as the Mosman merry-go-round.</div>
Of course it's wrong to assume that the Chinese buyers are all foreign buyers. As Paul Sheehan pointed out in a recent SMH column the number of people in Sydney who identify as having Chinese heritage is now more than 360,000, or 8% of the population.
I also think that it's simplistic to think that foreign Chinese buyers are reckless in their buying intent. And of course they don’t enjoy any special insight into the price direction of property.
Let's not forget the Japanese splurge into Australian commercial and tourism property in the 1980s that ended, almost without exception, in dramatic losses.
<a href="mailto:news@propertyobserver.com.au" target="_blank">news@propertyobserver.com.au</a>
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Postcode 2088 - aka Mosman - harvests continued significant Chinese residency attraction

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Orange has been a recent NSW property investment hotspot reportedly offering high yields and high capital growth – which rarely aligns in country towns.
But the Electrolux decision last month that will see 550 jobs go in the lead up to the mid-2015 plant closure certainly highlights the risks of enduring regional investment success.
The median price of an Orange house now stands at $325,000, reflecting a 5.4% gross yield.
Its units stock sells for $225,000, <a target="_blank" href="/news">according to RP Data</a>, reflecting a 6.1% gross yield. Some 18% house price growth over the past five years, along with 12% price growth for units.
And investors were assured "solid returns (would continue) for quite some time."
However scratch beneath the headlines to see a recent $324,000 three-bedroom brick house sale, that didn't reflect anywhere near the five year growth, having last sold in 2005 for $296,000. Its recent $335 asking rent down on its $340 asking rent of two years ago.
A two-bedroom villa sold this year for $250,000, just $10,000 more than its 2007 sale price. Yes there have been better growth, but the examples suggest to me that the hotspot reputation hasn't been warranted.
Its supposed market strength derived from several spruiked factors including a low unemployment rate of around 4.5% is under pressure.
Its local economy has certainly been underpinned by state and federal public service - especially the NSW Department of Education and Training and Department of Prime Industries (DPI) providing around 1,370 jobs.
It also comes with a university, hospital and airport.
Orange has been benefiting from mining expansion and operations. So much that the shortage of rental property spilt over into motel occupancies which were running at a 90% until early 2012.
The boom in house sales and values in Orange was being partly driven by the Cadia East Gold, the largest underground mine in Australia with an estimated three decade life, and now with a permanent mine workforce of around 800 people.
Orange also boasts one of Australia’s best wine districts and is considered a regional gourmet food capital.
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PRDnationwide Research analysed the rent figures for attached and detached dwellings over the past four years for me.
The results showed a 2.9% decline in the median rent price of a three-bedroom house and two-bedroom unit in the 12 months the June 2013. The median rent for a three bedroom house closed at $330 per week, while the median rent for a two bedroom unit declined to $250 per week.
They noted with mining activity reaching a mature stage, mining-related construction workers have now left the city, leading to a rise in rental vacancy.
The rental vacancy rate has increased from below 2% in November 2011 to 4.2% in September this year.
"Electrolux’s recent announcement of closing its Orange manufacturing plant is likely to add softness to the market," PRDnationwide research analyst Oded Reuveni-Etzioni said.
PRDnationwide expect price growth to remain around 3% per annum in the medium term, while a return to below 2% vacancy is unlikely.
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news@propertyobserver.com.au
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NSW city of Orange losing investment hotspot status even before Electrolux shock

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Retired spin bowler Shane Warne has sold his remarkably renovated Melbourne mansion which was marketed as the jewel in the crown of Brighton's school precinct.
No sale price has yet been revealed for the historic four bedroom house, Kilkerran, which sits on a 2,202 square metre estate, but it has been bought by a Brighton family with daughters at Firbank Grammar, who will move from closer to the beach about six streets away.
The Victorian Italianate mansion, which dates back to 1885, comes with a tennis-court above its 10-car underground garaging.
There was also the pool with Warne's signature 23 on the pool bottom. The home brings inside out with a vast bi-fold-enclosed entertainment and theatre zone featuring bar, BBQ kitchen, fully-racked cellar-room - even an aquarium.
Accommodating four bedrooms, the home puts the emphasis on parental privacy including a private skygarden-terrace with outdoor fireplace.
Its Victorian-era detail include multiple marble-fireplaces and lavish leadlight.
"It's one of Brighton's finest historic homes," advised the now removed website marketing by listing agents Jonathan Dixon and Chris Bevan at J.P. Dixon.
Jonathan Dixon had, during its mid-year remarketing, suggested there were $15 million hopes with Warne intending to buy something smaller in the area.
Warne had an unsolicited offer to sell the mansion for close to $20 million late in 2011, but the timing wasn't right. When it did come up for sale, Property Observer gathers Warne sought $18 million with early and repeated offers around $13 million.
The Brighton prestige market has been subdued for some three years or so with the highest sale this year being $9.25 million when the retired cricket captain Ricky Ponting bought his Melbourne abode, also through JP Dixon. <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/new-south-wales/ricky-ponting-calls-stumps-to-sutherland-shire-innings-with-%24425-million-property-sale/2013110366115" target="_blank">Selling in Sydney's Sutherland Shire</a>, Ponting and his wife, Rianna bought the Shandford Estate, a 1920s Edwardian seven-bedroom house on 1890 square metres with tennis court and a private laneway to the nearby beach. <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/news/brighton-s-mega-mansion-and-pseudo-town-hall-kinane-finally-sells/2013092465257" target="_blank">There has also been speculation of the $10 million sale of the Kinane mansion</a>.
When Warne's William Street property was first unofficially listed in August 2012, Sportsbet.com.au briefly took bets on what the property would fetch.
It had $10 million to $12 million as the favourite price bracket, with the odds at $2.60.
Selling for less than $10 million was the next closest bet at $3, while more than $20 million dropped back from $3 odds in August 2012 to a less impressive $13 just before the betting board was removed.
The Brighton property would set a new price record in the bayside suburb if it sold for more than $15.6 million, the record set in 2009 on Glyndon Avenue. The sale will sit as the suburb's eighth above $10 million since 2005. 
The sales details are mostly under wraps although Property Observer gleans from caveat title documents it has been bought by the Bellesis family of Brighton. Its paperwork leads to Maria Bellesis, the wife of Ross Bellesis, CEO and owner of the automotive parts company, Socobell.
Warne paid $8.55 million for the heritage listed home in 2009, which he shared with partner Simone Callaghan and their three children before the couple split in 2010. The Warne's prior home in Brighton included one on nearby Middle Crescent which was bought for about $3.5 million in 2000 and sold for about $8.75 million seven years later.
The current Warne mansion - decked out with privacy shields along the fence line - became the scene of an almost riotous media scrum when the English actress and model Liz Hurley came to stay after months of the couple's flirtation on Twitter.
They are now set to marry at some time.
Shane Warne and fiance, Liz Hurley have renovation plans for their £6 million 13-bedroom UK purchase, Donnington Hall near Ledbury.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/08/donnington2.png" width="470">
Donnington Hall (pictured above and below) is an impressive property that boasts a tennis court, fishing lake, Edwardian stables and open field, housekeeper accommodation and 21 acres of woodland.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/08/donnington3.png" width="470">
Their English house-hunting rumours began when the couple strolled into Greggs the bakers on the High Street in November 2011.
"The town was buzzing with rumours the couple were looking for property as Liz ordered a <a href="https://www.malverngazette.co.uk/news/9895327.Liz_and_Shane_buy___6m_mansion_near_Ledbury/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">custard slice and Shane, two sausage rolls</a>," the Malvern Gazette wrote.
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Successful sales spin secures Shane Warne's Brighton mansion sale

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Stone lions at the entrance of a home are supposed to guard against evil spirits.

Last weekend the auction crowd at a Georges Hall offering watched as confident bidding prized a $1,325,000 sale through Themy Panagiotidis at LJ Hooker Auburn.

{yoogallery src=[images/stories/2013/11/29/geo]}

The 5 Oak Drive property (pictured above) sold through auctioneer, Rob Trovato at Auction Services was a six bedroom double brick residence set on a 685 square metre block. The Georges Hall record stands at $1.5 million since last year.

There were statues everywhere, but outside the front door of the house stood a tall pair of guardian lion statues, which piqued the interest of our property contrarians Jonathan Chancellor and Margie Blok. This week they consider whether lion statuary is coming back into fashion.

<img alt="georges-hall-nov-29-one" height="283" src="/images/stories/2013/11/29/georges-hall-nov-29-one.jpg" width="470">

HE SAID: A CONDITIONAL YES

Why stop at jungle lions? Surely it's timely to get two Pixiu statues guarding the entrance. Pixiu is the Chinese mythical creature that resembles a winged lion considered to be protectors and also possessing mystical powers of drawing wealth. It is said to have a voracious appetite towards gold and silver.

The statues of a Pixiu are commonly found on the four corners of the roofs of houses—usually houses of important people such as the emperor. One cannot touch the face and head of the Pixiu, because the touch from an ordinary person would ruin their wealth.

Fierce looking with large fangs for attacking demons and evil spirits, the Pixiu has a fat body which indicates a full stomach loaded with unlimited amounts of good fortune.

A Pixiu myth says the creature disregarded a law of heaven. And so the Jade Emperor reproached it by restricting its diet to gold, and then prevented the creature from defecating. Hence, Pixiu absorb only gold, but cannot expel it.

I've actually rarely seen a pixiu, with just the one sale of recent times when a house at Sunnybank Hills, Queensland was sold for $831,000, a gain on the $650,000 price paid by the Wu family in 2004.

But my favourite classic lions were at Loombah, the 1879 Hunters Hill residence sold in 2000 through Ward Partners agent David Ward in conjunction with Martin Schiller. The sandstone Georgian mansion, set on park-like lawns and gardens high above the Parramatta River, was sold by the sand merchant and horse racing enthusiasts John Cornish and wife Pam. With rich cedar joinery, ornate mantels, soaring ceilings, shady verandas, fine English curtains and antique Waterford chandeliers, the property takes its name from the Aboriginal word for steep banks, having been built for surveyor and lithographic draftsman Arthur Stopps. I wonder are they still insitu?

[smartcode_project:default project_id=90140]

SHE SAID: YES

Lions are the king of outdoor statuary and fashionable from time immemorial – or to be more exact, for more than 3000 years when carved stone sphinxes (statues of a lion’s body with a human head) lined the road from Karnak to Luxor in Egypt - these statues remain a highlight for modern tourists.

Of course in China, pairs of guardian lions have been popular since the Han dynasty (206BC-220AD).

In Australia, lion statues standing sentinel at the entrance to a home have been popular for decades.

My favourite pair of lions graced the front path of a grand Queenslander house at Crescent Road, Hamilton in Brisbane. Named Benson &amp; Hedges by the owners of the property, the white painted lions (lying regally on plaster plynths) were considered part of the family.

Sadly, after the house sold for $3.5 million in 2006, the statues disappeared during renovations.

The lions are best not located at the front fence, <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nt-karama-112591355" target="_blank">otherwise they look caged</a>, as apparent at this Northern Territory home.

<img alt="karama-nov-29-one" height="217" src="/images/stories/2013/11/29/karama-nov-29-one.jpg" width="470">
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Lions at the front door! Are lion statues making a regal comeback?

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Julia Gillard's longtime Altona home had its first packed open for inspection this weekend.
With queues to the pavement at 9 Medford Street Altona, it was almost like The Block renovation television series hoopla but for politico fanatics.
If they'd come to see that fruit bowl which appeared in the <a target="_blank" href="https://altonabeauty.blogspot.com.au/2013_11_01_archive">much-interpreted Ken Irwin Fairfax Media 2005 photo</a>, they were left bemused as the marketing shots of the kitchen interior shows two - one empty, the other with apples - but neither the original fruit bowl.
The former prime minister's south-west Melbourne brick home on its 603 square metre block got a 2008 makeover to make it more modern than modest.
And moving forwards the stylists have recently been through the property as earlier this month she and parter, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/rural/the-first-bloke-tim-mathieson-buys-%24115000-bush-block-on-lake-eildon-to-build-a-shack-amid-the-serenity/2013052461637">Tim Mathieson </a>both moved out, along with their furniture, in preparation for the home going on the market.
Ending 15 years in the electorate, Julia Gillard has scheduled her auction for December 14 auction <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/south-australia/local-paper-tweets-that-julia-gillard-spends-%2418-million-in-hometown-adelaide/2013080863960">as she pursues her post-political life in her hometown, Adelaide</a>.
(Huge interest (below) in Julia Gillard's Altona home captured from the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://twitter.com/thechrismartin7/status/404105358097911808/photo/1">tweeted Channel 7</a> cameraman coverage)
<div class="gallery-media"><img alt="gillard-nov-25-one" height="269" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/11/25/gillard-nov-25-one.jpg"></div>
<a href="https://twitter.com/thechrismartin7/status/404105358097911808/photo/1/large"></a>
Jas Stephens agent Anna Grech expects the three-bedroom 1960s Medford Street home to fetch $600,000 plus.
<img height="454" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/11/15/altona-nov-15-floor-plan.jpg" alt="altona-nov-15-floor-plan">
Since its public listing the home has been featured across the world, from the <a target="_blank" href="https://au.ibtimes.com/articles/522050/20131114/julia-gillard-altona-home-tim-mathieson.htm">International Business Times </a>to the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.malaysia-chronicle.com/index.php?option=com_k2&amp;view=item&amp;id=190802:have-a-peek-into-julia-gillards-home&amp;Itemid=4">Malaysia Chronicle</a>. 
More than 5800 website views have been recorded since it was listed for sale, some eight times higher than the normal number for Altona property marketing campaigns, according to <a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-altona-115438475">realestate.com.au</a>.
Her Altona house cost $140,000 in 1998 - which was slightly less than Altona's then $155,000 median price.
RP Data currently puts <a target="_blank" href="/news">Altona's median</a> at $545,000, thereby suggesting, on current pricing estimates, that there have been quite substantial improvements. Or she bought very well or has ambitious expectations.
It was renovated in 2008, with new kitchen, plus adding an extra room, ensuite in the main bedroom, and a deck out the back.
"I bought my home in Altona because I loved the seaside village feel of Pier Street and the Esplanade," Ms Gillard told the local paper, The Wyndham Weekly.
"The house itself has been lovingly cared for by the first owner. Like Altona itself, our home has been renewed and modernised over the last 15 years. Nine Medford Street has been a happy place for Tim and I, full of light and often full of laughter," Ms Gillard said.
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Julia Gillard's Altona open for inspection with modern fruit bowl not included in $600,000+ pricing

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From $200,000 near Budgewoi to $6.45 million on the harbour at Clifton Gardens, Sydney's record-breaking spring market produced another preliminary 80% plus weekend auction clearance rate.
So far in November, 3,062 properties have been scheduled for auction, well ahead of last November's 2,148 over the same period. 
And next weekend Australian Property Monitors notes there are a record 900-plus properties for auction across Sydney.
November will break the record for the highest month of auctions conducted over a month in Sydney, and more importantly the highest number of successful sales.
The strength and magnetism of the inner west market was evident when 59 Young St, Annandale sold for $890,000, at $40,000 over reserve. The campaign was through Belle Property agents Robert Clarke and Julie Hatch saw auctioneer Rocky Bartolotto, from Auction Services.
There had been 110 views, 11 contracts issued and four registered bidders who kicked off bidding at $800,000 for the neat two bedroom home with approval to build up. The buying young couple with two children will relocate from Coogee.
The $6.45 million top sale was the first listing in more than three decades for the five bedroom house on 1200 square metres which was marketed through Belle Property with $6 million plus hopes. Iluka Road's last prestige sale in March at $6.075 million for the 1088 square metre holding which had been initially listed in late 2011.
The weekend's best selling district was 
Upper north shore 90% (58 auctions)
Inner west 87% (97 auctions)
Lower north shore 87% (34 auctions)
Northern beaches 86% (12 auctions)
Canterbury-Bankstown 84% (30 auctions)
South 78% (61 auctions)
City and east 77% (59 auctions)
North-west 77% (34 auctions)
West 76% (50 auctions)
South-west 67% (25 auctions)
Source APM
RP Data has noted the total residential listings, auction and private treaty, in Sydney are down 26% with new listings up only 4%.
In Sydney, 154 suburbs recorded 100% of sales at more than their prior sale price, according to RP Data.
Overall 93% of home sales were at a higher figure than prior.
RP Data identified Kellyville Ridge as the most impressive with all 92 sales changing hands for more than their last sale price.
Rouse Hill, Allawah, Roselands and West Ryde peformed strongly.
The Entrance and Winston Hills were the only two locations where mkore properties sold for less than a gain, the report said.
The speed of sales has certainly spilled over into private treaty sales.
Last week William Phillips at BresicWhitney secured the $5.25 million sale of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.bresicwhitney.com.au/#!/buy/7671">the three storey Darlinghurst mansion, Chimera</a>.
The five bedroom four bathroom 1880s house (pictured below) on 382 square metres last sold at $4,625,00o in September 2010 which represents 4% growth per annum.
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/2013/11/25/darl2]}
The sale was secured in just three weeks, but last time it took three years, and several marketing campaigns, between initial listing and sale for the Darley Street terrace that had sold unrenovated for $550,000 in 1991.
Mopping up old stock is another key characteristics of the current market fillip.
There's been a realism from previously ambitious vendors now aware of sufficient comparable sales to make their revised pricing - and to sell.
<a target="_blank" href="mailto:news@propertyobserver.com.au">news@propertyobserver.com.au</a>
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Sydneysiders securing more than last time in 93% of property sales

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Orwell, the 1902 Federation, Camberwell home of empty nesters, Collingwood Football Club chief Gary Pert and his wife, Andi was passed in at its mid-November auction at $3.45 million.
It was $200,000 short of the now-disclosed $3.65 million reserve through Jellis Craig agents Richard Winneke and Chloe Quinn.
About 60 attendees reportedly gathered on the block's floodlit tennis court, with just the one bid made to the auctioneer Alistair Craig of Jellis Craig who'd previously placed vendor bids of $3.3 million and $3.4 million.
The Pert's bought the five-bedroom house for $650,000 in 1998 and added the 850 square metre adjacent block at a $775,000 cost in 2002.
Fairfax Media reported the gym was decked out with football memorabilia from his playing days at the Fitzroy and Collingwood Football Clubs from 1982 to 1995, but the gym is not featured in the publicly available photo gallery in its marketing. 
<a target="_blank" href="mailto:news@propertyobserver.com.au">news@propertyobserver.com.au</a>
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Empty nesters Gary and Andi Pert seek $3.65 million for longtime Camberwell home

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."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149637 project_image_fid=351024]

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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362240] 
&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.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=13962]

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."

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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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=342 project_image_fid=364553]

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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