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Sydney is set for another 700 plus auctions this Saturday with a record 900 plus weekend now scheduled for next weekend, November 30.
It's the busiest auction season on record, since Australian Property Monitors started keeping the data in the late 1980s.
There are  757 auctions scheduled for this Saturday, November 23 across Sydney.
There have been three prior consecutive 700 plus weekends.
APM have 900 plus scheduled auctions for November 30 and then edging into summer there are 788 auctions scheduled for the December 7 Saturday.
It will take the tally of 700 plus weekends - the number required for so-called 'Super Saturday' status - to seven this 2013 spring selling season.
Before this spring there had been <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/news/strength-of-the-vendor-mindset-and-auction-bounce-to-be-tested-by-upcoming-super-saturdays/2013100265434">just three days with more than 700 auctions in Sydney</a>, the last being in March 2012. This Saturday brings the running total of weekend auction listings for November to 3065 - 42% higher than last November while Melbourne's 3075 home offerings reflected an increase of 14%, Dr Andrew Wilson the APM senior economist noted. Melbourne edges clear once the final weekend of November figures are included to 4400 plus auctions compared with Sydney's 3970 Noevmber auctions.
Melbourne's record Super Saturday was October 26 this year when APM noted sales resulting in over $1.2 billion worth of property sold across Melbourne from the 1,358 listed auctions.
APM has 928 auctions scheduled this weekend, with the numbers jumping to 1,322 on November 30 and 1,253 on the December 7 weekend.
The previous highest number of auctions held in melbourne was March 15, 2008 with 1,351 auctions, based on REIV data.
There are 441 Melbourne auctions scheduled for December 14 with 484 in Sydney. 
Only the bravest of vendors will auction Saturday December 21.
But APM have already spotted 24 planning to do so - 15 in Sydney and nine in Melbourne.  
They include <a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/11a-sharpe-street-reservoir/Property-Details-buy-residential-6386523">a three-bedroom brick Reservoir home at 11a Sharpe Street listed through Barry Plant Real Estate </a>which is currently leased at $1,517 per month. 
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/5-euston-road-auburn/Property-Details-buy-residential-6367787">First National Waters &amp; Carptenter have 5 Euston Road, Auburn, a three bedroom cottage, listed for December 21 auction.</a>
There is a<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/21-hillview-street-narellan/Property-Details-buy-residential-6360781"> four bedroom offering </a>at 21 Hillview Street, Narellan listed through Combined Real Estate agent Marnie Harris.
Century 21 have $1.1 million plus hopes for the contemporary five bedroom house at <a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-newport-115506419">127 Wallumatta Road at Newport </a>on Sydney's northern beaches. Its listing agent Stephanie Hammond says it offers the best rental return in Newport.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Melbourne and Sydney have Super Saturdays scheduled into summer, with auction offerings almost up to Christmas Eve

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North, south, east, west and all the variations in between. Real estate advertisements regularly highlight a property’s aspect and light-filled interiors in order to attract buyers. In Australia, properties facing north are considered highly desirable due to the amount of direct sunlight received throughout the day. But how should properties with other aspects be considered? 

“In some respects, the ‘north-facing garden’ has become shorthand for an ideally sunlit property,” says Monique Wakelin, director of Wakelin Property Advisory in an article published recently in the AFR.

But Wakelin noted “what really matters is how the design of a property is affected by the direction it faces”.

“When considering aspect it’s not just a matter of north, south, east or west, but what this means for a property given its design, and how this plays out it terms of light,” she said adding that shying away from anything other than north-facing could mean missing out on a better investment opportunity.

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Our property commentators Jonathan Chancellor and Margie Blok discuss concerns about aspect and light which vendors and buyers should heed when buying and selling properties no matter which direction they face.

HE SAID:<img alt="jc-silhouette-5" height="225" src="/images/stories/2013/09/06/jc-silhouette-5.jpg" style="float: right;" width="150">

Keys factors vendors should consider:

* High capital growth is just as important as a perfect north aspect. Well located properties, and those with water views, usually increase in value even if the aspect is east, west or south.

* A well-designed house or beautifully presented apartment should reap financial rewards because buyers often pay a premium for quality renovations and good design.

* Installing skylights is a practical solution for hallways and rooms lacking sunlight  - funneling sunshine into gloomy spaces can totally transform the ambience of a house.

* Installing mirror panels or hanging mirrors to reflect light into dark corners is a clever (and inexpensive) solution often used by interior designers.

* Natural light is attractive to buyers, but designer interior lighting is too - it allows you to alter the mood of a room. Before listing your property consider seeking professional advice about installing decorative and ambient lighting.

*Don’t overlook outdoor and garden lighting which can enhance the beauty of your property at night.

* If your house has windows looking directly into a neighbour’s home consider replacing clear glass panes with opaque glass to provide privacy but also let in the same amount of light.

* Little or no sunlight can be grounds for rejecting a property by home buyers as well as investors, and can considerably reduce a property’s value, especially in high rise apartment blocks in increasingly crowded CBDs.

<img alt="mb-silhouette-4" height="225" src="/images/stories/2013/09/06/mb-silhouette-4.jpg" style="float: left;" width="150">SHE SAID:

Key factors buyers should heed:

* Check for brightness and sunlight by turning off electric lights to gauge how much natural light fills the rooms of a house or apartment.

* Too much sunshine can be a problem – you don’t want to have curtains drawn and air-conditioning running for hours on end in a west or north-west facing property that cops vast amounts of direct sunlight for most of the day.

* Apartments facing south or west should not be ruled out if these properties have water views or are set in a premium location. These apartments could hold better capital growth potential (and/or higher rental yield) than a north-facing apartment without a view or situated in a less desirable area.

* Be sure to check out a property at different times of the day – estate agents often schedule inspection times for the 30 to 45 minutes when a house or apartment is filled with maximum natural light.

* Check the estate agent’s spiel about a property’s aspect – sometimes their advertisements will emphasise a north-facing aspect but not make it clear which part of the house faces north. It could be the front bedrooms have a north aspect and the living areas at the back of the house, as well as the garden, are facing south. It’s important to check for yourself how a house is sited on the block, so take the iphone compass.

* Bedrooms are for sleeping, so it’s not important for these to be sunny – in fact, some people prefer bedrooms without a north aspect. But best check for mould and dampness problems in places where no light reaches.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29048]

* Don’t get carried away with beautiful interior décor and then fall in love with a property because of what it looks like – you need to assess its relationship with sunshine and natural light.

* Both home buyers and investors should check the floor plan and consider orientation of various rooms in houses and apartments – these can be just as important as aspect.
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North, south, east or west: How can investors make the most of house aspect?

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Surrendering views over the bay, retired company directors Rudi and Illona Miklosvary have listed their Mount Eliza home for December 1 auction as the family now live in the <place><country-region>US</country-region></place>.
Its a majestic European villa style residence with entertaining terrace with infinity pool and landscaped gardens with putting green.
Located on 8,086 square metres, the four-bedroom Royston Court mansion was built in 2001. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.8roystoncourt-mounteliza.com">Robin Parker of Marshall White expects $4 million plus.</a> The suburb's median house price sits at<a target="_blank" href="/news"> around $730,000</a>, according to RP Data. 
{qtube vid:=oPogOE4EIoQ}
The former cosmetics importer Berkeley International boss and his wife made the sea change from Melbourne to coastal Mt Eliza seven years ago after departing  South Yarra.
It was the Caroline Street, South Yarra house that won Australian House of the Year in 1922 which was sold by the couple in 2007 for $3.45 million. The house positioned above the Yarra River had a renovation by architect John Chandler. 
Over the years the South Yarra house had been home of fashion designer Adele Palmer, property developer Michael Yates and restaurateur Paul Lynch who sold it to the Miklosvary couple for $1.4 million in 2001.
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/2013/11/22/liz2]}
news@propertyobserver.com.au
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No cosmetic renovation required at this Mount Eliza European-style villa

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The recently retired Socceroos champion Mark Schwarzer and his wife, Paloma, have sold Boongarre, their 1870s Watsons Bay property for $8 million.
The buyer is former model Genevieve Reed, the wife of the publican Damien Reed. Genevieve Reed had an extended settlement, put and call option over the eastern Sydney harbourfront property.
Title Tattle gleans Genevieve Reed had quietly, until the recent settlement deadline, unsuccessfully sought $9 million plus buyers who would have taken up Reed's speculative purchasing rights from earlier this year.
The Schwarzer couple, who are staying in Britain while Mark continues his club career with Chelsea Football Club, never resided in the five-bedroom Victorian weatherboard, best known for its association with the Stead family. They rented it out to tenants who remain in the heritage listed residence until early next year. 
Title Tattle wrote of its mooted secret sale in March this year, but without any sale price indication because it was difficult to nail down with any degree of surity.
Around August the SMH belatedly wrote it had sold with the Title Deeds "inside story" section then advising the "property fetched more than $9 million."
Set on a 1,132-square-metre block, Schwarzer did the hard yards during their ownership securing development approval for Tobias Partners alterations and extensions. They met public resistance when the likes of the US author Jonathan Franzen asked that the house be preserved insitu as a national heritage item.
No development works were undertaken by Schwarzer who bought it from the boatshed-seeking Pavlik family for $10.2 million in 2009.
The Pavlik family had bought it from the National Trust in 1991 for $2.67 million after it had been bequeathed to the trust by Stead's third wife, botanist Thistle Harris, best known as the author of Wild Flowers Of Australia.
It was bought for £400 in 1917 by naturalist David Stead, when his daughter, the novelist Christina, was 14 years old. Christina, who left for London in 1928, used the locality in her books For Love Alone, The Man Who Loved Children and Seven Poor Men Of Sydney.
It was built for John Harmer, a clerk in the water police office at Watsons Bay, by his father, William, a builder and ferry boat owner.
During the Stead ownership the property was known as Boongarre, derived from the name of an Aborigine, Bungaree, whom Governor Lachlan Macquarie described as the chief of the Broken Bay tribe.
<a target="_blank" href="/news">It was listed with $12 million plus hopes in March 2012.</a>
news@propertyobserver.com.au
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Mark Schwarzer cops $2.2 million loss on Watsons Bay harbourfront

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Mortgage insurance company Genworth has made loan approvals for self-managed superannuation funds harder to obtain.
Highlighting a reduced risk appetite, the loan policy change is the first sign of the industry's response towards headlines that suggested there has been a rush of SMSFs borrowing to buy residential investment property.
The latest data out today from Australian Prudential Regulation Authority shows there are now 516,000 SMSFs across Australia holding $531 billion in assets, up from 485,000 the same time last year holding $439 billion in assets.
Figures from the Australian Tax Office have shown that the amount of residential property held by SMSFs has jumped from $13 billion to $17.5 billion over the past three years, but the level of gearing has been low.
According to the ATO, self-managed super schemes had $2.4 billion of outstanding loans against property and shares as of June 30, representing less than 0.5% of assets in the do-it-yourself sector. None the less, Bridget Sakr, Genworth's chief commercial officer, recently advised lenders that from December any SMSF must hold minimum net tangible assets of $150,000 or more prior to entering a loan. There was no prior policy on minimum assets. The fund must also have a minimum liquid asset balance of 10% of the total debts of the SMSF (including the loan amount) after the loan transaction is complete.
Genworth defined minimum liquid asset as interest divided by dividend earning assets. Furthermore the insurer said that off-the-plan purchases and new properties that have been completed for less than 12 months were no longer acceptable as security.
The official Genworth notification, published yesterday by <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bankingday.com/">Banking Day</a>, noted "being a prudent Lenders Mortgage Insurance provider, we are always assessing the market and emerging trends to ensure our policy is aligned to market conditions. As a result we have made the following changes to our underwriting policy in relation to Lenders Mortgage Insurance for self-managed super funds."
It comes against the backdrop of the Reserve Bank of Australia's September observation that "a range of banks have been growing their residential property lending to self-managed superannuation funds rather strongly. "
The RBA went onto suggest "these sorts of expansions into less familiar markets or products require sufficient due diligence before they are undertaken."
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Just a hint from the Australian macro-prudential regulators that they wanted a cooling in lending enthusiasm, unlike the blunt curbs introduced recently by the Reserve Bank of New Zealand for its higher risk borrowers.
SMSFs have been able to borrow to invest in property since 2007.
The APRA September 2013 Quarterly Superannuation Performance publication showed the total estimated assets, which include the assets of self-managed superannuation funds and the balance of life office statutory funds, rose to $1.75 trillion at 30 September 2013. SMSFs make up $531 billion. 
 
<a target="_blank" href="mailto:news@propertyobserver.com.au">news@propertyobserver.com.au</a>
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SMSF lender insurance risk appetite wanes with tightened industry imposed credit curbs

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The Carss Park mansion of the champion boxer Kostya Tszyu and his wife, Natasha, is back for auction.
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.mcgrath.com.au/buy/house-carss-park-nsw-2221/198628/?searchID=34213983">It had been listed with $2.88 million-plus December 14 auction hopes</a> through Sasha Tasic and Greg Tsaprazis at McGrath Estate Agents.
Having been passed in at $3.25 million at its initial July 2012 offering, it was then sold but the buyer didn't proceed to settlement.
The agents hope the Benwerrin Avenue property will set a suburb record. 
The six-bedroom, six bathroom residence has 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 highest price paid in Carss Park remains at $2.45 million for a late 2008 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 href="mailto:news@propertyobserver.com.au" target="_blank">news@propertyobserver.com.au</a>
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Boxer Kostya Tszyu seeks Carss Park record with mansion auction re-bout

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Getting a diversified mix of liquid assets beyond shares into one's self-managed super funds seems wise. And rather than the traditional apartment or cottage, over the weekend dozens of SMSF trustees grabbed the opportunity to add a small 12.5 square metre, low-maintenance property with long term tenant in their portfolio.
There were 602 spaces available at the Park &amp; Fly car park close to the airport at Mascot. More than 2000 expressions of interest had been received in the lead up to the weekend's exchanges.
All 154 freehold strata car spaces listed at $57,500 each, on a yield of 6.5% were exchanged, with 75 pocketed straight into SMSFs.
Another 147 of the 450 double tandem spaces of 24.5 square metres, priced at $104,500, were also sold over the weekend, of which 79 were for smsfs.
According to Erle Cramer of Cramer Property one investor from Sydney bought six for various family members. Purchasers came from as far afield as Hong Kong and London.
"Investors have realised that this investment opportunity represents an excellent chance to diversify investment portfolios, whether for self-managed super funds (SMSF) or cash that is currently sitting in the bank looking for a better return," Erle Cramer suggested. 
Type of car space: Single
Number of single car space lots: 154
Unit Entitlement: 10
Income $
Gross annual rent $4,596
Less:
Annual outgoings
Coucil rates $480
Strata levy $378
Water rates $0
Total annual outgoings $858
Net annual rent $3,738
Sales price $57,500
Net yield 6.5%
Each week over 2,000 vehicles are parked at 1008 Botany Road Mascot where P &amp; F shuttles drop off and collect between 900 and 1,100 people each day with an estimated 600 customer vehicle movements daily. 
The nine level property with frontage to Baxter Road, General Holmes Drive and Botany Road operates from 5 am until 11 pm, 365 days a year. 
The sales prospective said the business had improved occupancy with 2014 financial year occupancy projected at 92% for the 1,060 multi-deck car park. 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/stories/2013/11/25/Erle_Cramer_7.jpg" alt="Erle_Cramer_7" width="470" height="328">
Each car space has its own separate commercial lease for an initial term of five years, with consecutive 3 x 5 year option periods totalling 20 years. An initial 6.5% per annum net return is offered in addition to 3% rent increases each year, except on the exercise of the option, when the increase will be 4%.
Cramer Property is marketing the project in conjunction with Hayson Sales for the vendor syndicate that included Sydney entrepreneurs John Singleton, Mark Carnegie and Robert Whyte.
Type of car space: Double tandem
Number of double tandem car space lots: 450
Unit entitlement: 20
Income $
Gross annual rent $8,029
Less:
Annual outgoings
Coucil rates $480
Strata levy $756
Water rates $0
Total annual outgoings $1,236
Net annual rent $6,793
Sales price $104,500
Net yield 6.5%
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/stories/2013/11/25/car-parks-nov-25-one.jpg" alt="car-parks-nov-25-one" width="470" height="313">
The 6.5% net yield appealed to investors prepared to accept prescribed rent rises.
Whilst not attracting the NSW state government's metropolitian annual parking space levy, currently $2,210 for spaces in the Sydney CBD after their doubling in 2009, the possibility of the levy which is also applicable at $780 a year at North Sydney, Parramatta, St Leonards, Chatswood and Bondi Junction, would have been in the minds of some investors despite not being applicable within Botany Council.
The issue of cap park competition affecting possible price growth was raised in the sales material which noted it was potentially affected by Sydney Airport’s slated reorganisation which could lead to the opening of more car parking spaces with additional capacity around 2018.
There are just the two companies currently providing long term multi-deck secure parking for travellers within the airport precinct, Sydney Airport Corporation Limited (on leasehold land) and P&amp;F. SACL offers parking at the domestic and international terminals and also an on tarmac, Blue Emu service.
<a href="mailto:news@propertyobserver.com.au" target="_blank">news@propertyobserver.com.au</a>
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SMSFs park Mascot airport car spaces into funds as diversified nest egg option

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The mining services business owner Luke Herbert has paid $21.35 million for one of Western Australia’s most famous grazing estates, Devereaux Farm.
The sale of the 2470-hectare property, formerly owned by coal baron Ric Stowe, settled on Tuesday, according to the Australian Financial Review.
With an estimated $20 million net worth, Luke Herbert recently appeared in 90th place in <a href="https://www.brw.com.au/p/lists/young-rich/2013/young_rich_luke_herbert_Z8TI0IsgJuMTfvJY6LJoGL" target="_blank">BRW’s Young Rich 2013 list</a> of 100 wealthiest Australians aged 40 and under.
Mr Herbert is a Port Hedland-born businessman who owns WA-based mining and engineering services company Linkforce Engineering which provides construction, shutdown, scaffolding and equipment hire services to the mining industry with a turnover of $93 million in 2012.
Devereaux Farm, located in Perth’s outer metropolitan area at Bullsbrook, has five residences, two helipads, an airfield and a polo field.
Stowe's financiers seized the property in 2010 with a PPB receivership to recover loans tied to his collapsed Griffin Coal empire. The private Monaco-based businessman's empire imploded in January 2010, leaving behind a trail of more than $2 billion in debt.
The Commonwealth Bank of Australia had valued the property at $68 million in 2010.
<a target="_blank" href="https://garlandinternational.com.au/properties/devereaux-farm-bullsbrook/">John Garland, of Garland International</a>, and Jones Lang LaSalle handled the sale process which included artwork and other house contents.
<a target="_blank" href="mailto:news@propertyobserver.com.au">news@propertyobserver.com.au</a>
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Ric Stowe's Devereaux Farm, WA sells to Linkforce mining engineer Luke Herbert

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Loggan Rock at Whale Beach has been sold for $2 million.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-whale+beach-113257079" target="_blank">The Whale Beach Road cabin of log and rock </a>last sold in 2003 to the phone industry executive Gerry Sutton and his wife, librarian Regina, for $2.05 million.
The property comes with a two-bedroom, two-bathroom 1950s Max Collard-designed beach house that has been recently rebuilt by the Suttons on the 1935 square metre holding.
Listed for sale with initial $3 million-plus hopes in 2010, Loggan Rock, the iconic Whale Beach log cabin house was relisted more recently at $2.39 million.
The eccentric architect Alexander Stewart Jolly built what's known as the Jolly Folly between 1929 and 1934.
It is featured in the book by author Jan Roberts, Avalon: Landscape &amp; Harmony, which looks at the work of three local architects - Jolly, Walter Burley Griffin and Harry Ruskin Rowe - whose creations still stands around Avalon and Whale Beach.
Loggan Rock - "log on rock" - is the original log cabin with twig windows and a wooden floor. There's the stone tower, reminiscent of a Scottish castle.
All built by Jolly who came from a Lismore-based family of timber merchants, sawmillers and furniture makers.
He was heavily influenced by the Arts and Crafts movement and Frank Lloyd Wright's Chicago school architectural design.
Title Tattle notes it changed hands previously at $710,000 in 1989, then in 1995 for $555,000. 
<a target="_blank" href="mailto:news@propertyobserver.com.au">news@propertyobserver.com.au</a>
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Timber! Eccentric Loggan Rock, Whale Beach falls back in price again

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Danny Wallis, the entrepreneurial DWS managing director, has emerged as the $7 million buyer of Brinbara, the prestige property hidden at the end of Queensland's Sunshine Beach on its sprawling 3,595-square-metre two-title beachfront holding.
It was initially listed wth $14 million price hopes by property developer Michael Brown, the REMM builder and developer of the Myer Centre in Brisbane and Adelaide.
Tom Offermann Real Estate secured the sale of the nine-bedroom Noosa district mansion that was sold earlier this year at an undisclosed price, having been most recently listed with a $9.25 million price guide.
The Middle Park-based IT industry entrepreneur <a href="/news">Danny Wallis was the energetic $1.01 ambush marketing bidderman of the The Block 2012 reality television auction</a> of the South Melbourne terrace offerings. 
Brinbara is entered through iron security gates, down a winding driveway, past the tennis court with pavilion to the house with soaring porte-cochere. Inside the double entry doors is the massive foyer and the immediate framing of the ocean.
There's a sweeping staircase to most of its nine bedrooms.
It was built originally by Brian Wood for his wife Barbara hence the name Brinbara, bringing a bit of Toorak by the Sea when they first came to town.
Located on Webb Road, the property boasts a 70-metre water frontage.
The property was first listed in March 2011 with a $14 million price guide.
The home last traded in May 2003 for $7 million, and prior to that, for $3 million in 2001.
Danny Wallis founded DWS in 1992 having begun his career in the I.T. industry as a system programmer.
<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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IT entrepreneur Danny Wallis spends $7 million for Brinbara on Sunshine Beach

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.

[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."

<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.

[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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