<html><body>
The latest Bloomberg survey has 25 of 28 economist seeing no change at the July RBA meeting on Tuesday.
But 15 of the economists expect the August RBA meeting will cut the cash rate from 2.75% to 2.5%.
Many do not then see any further decline or increase for the next few quarters.
</body></html>

jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

July RBA meeting rate cut not expected, but August looks likely

<html><body>
It last traded for $71,000 in 1979, which might account for the seemingly wayward pre-auction price estimate.
The SMH Domain gave the Federation, Drummoyne offering a $2.2 million plus price guidance.
However after the passing of its scheduled mid-week auction, the renovated four bedroom 1910 house comes with a $2.6 million asking price through Coopers Agency. <a target="_blank" href="https://coopersagency.com.au/3718942/15-South-Street-Drummoyne">Its on a 405 square metre block</a>.
Behind the South Street facade is an abode with a modern kitchen overlooking the open plan living and dining areas.
There are glass bi-fold doors opening to its garden with stepping stones, water feature and established shrubs along with a tandem carport.
All three downstairs bedrooms have a fireplace and the upstairs main retreat comes with balcony with views of Brett Park, Iron Cove and the city skyline.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
</body></html>

The $2.2 million plus Drummoyne offering becomes unsold $2.6 million listing

<html><body>
Fashion stylist Ken Thompson has sold his three-bedroom Potts Point apartment for $845,000 having listed its with $840,000 plus hopes.
The 85-square-metre unit is located on the fifth floor of the Emil Sodersten-designed art deco building.
The north-west corner apartment sold through Nicholas Tsaoucis of Richardson &amp; Wrench Elizabeth Bay.
Its rented until September 2013 at $800 per week.
</body></html>

Fashion stylist Ken Thompson secures $845,000 for Potts Point apartment

<html><body>
The opera Diva Amelia Farrugia and her husband, the concert promoter, Paul Chesher have sold their Balmoral home.
It was sold by Andrew Blaxland from Richardson &amp; Wrench Mosman &amp; Neutral Bay who had been seeking high $2 millions.
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.randw.com.au/904338/">Selling before the July 2 expressions of interest date, its sale price is undisclosed.</a> The neighbourhood tattle suggests $2,859,500.
The three bedroom Lower Almora Street, Mosman house on a 521 square metre block last traded at $2.1 million in 2005.
Its a 1920s beach house with plans drawn up for renovation by James Cooper of Sanctum Design.
</body></html>

Opera diva Amelia Farrugia and husband Paul Chesher sell in Balmoral

<html><body>
Sydney has 441 auctions this Saturday, which is higher than last weekend's 427.
The inner-west is the most popular district with 67 properties followed by the upper north shore with 58 auctions.
Sydney's south has with 49 and the city and east has 41 auctions scheduled.
The suburb with the most auctions is Strathfield with eight followed by Leichhardt with six.
Drummoyne has five auctions followed by Mosman and Hunters Hill each with four.
"This weekend with its holiday distractions looms as another test for a robust Sydney housing market that has recorded exceptional buyer activity so far this year," the Fairfax based senior economist for Australian Property Monitors, Dr Andrew Wilson said.
 
</body></html>

No holiday for agents with 441 weekend Sydney auctions

<html><body>
Artist Tim Storrier and his wife, Janet, have finally sold their historic rural Bathurst estate, some 12 months after its listing.
Blackdown, the Storriers' Bathurst estate, cost $2.5 million in 2008 when bought from the hair care product pioneer Anton Starling, who'd unsuccessfully sought more than $3.5 million.
The 56-hectare property some four kilometres from the Bathurst city centre, at Eglinton secured $2.55 million, having been listed with $4 million plus hopes this time last year. The expectations were adjusted to $3 million around Easter.
There's no way to paint the situation other than the prestige rural lifestyle market is very much in the doldrums given the caution among buyers unprepared to take on debt on a second property that has been evident since the global financial crisis.
The hobby farm sold through<a target="_blank" href="https://www.professionalsbathurst.com.au/real-estate/property/597161/sold/house-on-acreage/nsw/bathurst-2795/"> James Thompson at The Professionals Bathurst </a>to a local who intends to use the garden and artist's studio for weddings. 
The Ian Stapleton-renovated homestead comes with tennis court, pool, dressage arena and stable complex.
The house was built for commissariat storekeeper Thomas Hawkins, his wife, Elizabeth, and their eight children after a land grant by Governor Thomas Brisbane.
Thomas Hawkins, a former British naval officer, had been appointed commissarial storekeeper at Bathurst in 1822.
Hawkins has spent 18 days to get across the Blue Mountains to Bathurst, where he selected the holding on the Macquarie River.
In late 2012 the Storrier couple bought <a target="_blank" href="/news">Hopewood House</a> at Bowral in the NSW Southern Highlands.
It was built in 1884 by Ben Osborne and his wife, Lucy, in the grand Dutch colonial style.
</body></html>

Bathurst's Blackdown sold at $2.55 million by artist Tim Storrier

Altona reigns in Title Tattle's top 20 house sales in the 2012-2013 financial year

<html><body>
James Fairfax, the philanthropic former chairman of the publishing company that bears his family name, has sold his Woollahra retreat.
It's been his parkfront city residence in the prized Edward Street cul-de-sac since 1992.
The north-facing architectural gem with two bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms was custom-fitted internally by the internationally acclaimed George Freedman in the mid-1990s.
It fills with northerly light and parkland views from its compact 234 square metre holding.
Title Tattle gleans its been bought by prominent Sydney caterer, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/devine-del-rio-elizabeth-bay-trophy-garden-apartment-sells-to-fashionista-melanie-greensmith/2013061462255">Charles Wilkins who recently sold his Del Rio, Elizabeth Bay garden apartment</a>. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.culinaryedge.com.au/">His company is Culinary Edge</a>.
Featured in the architectural and design magazine, Monument, James Fairfax moved into the home after he sold Glanworth, his Darling Point harbourfront mansion to the Singaporean hotel magnate, Ho Whye Chung for $8.5 million in 1994.
The eldest son of the late median tycoon Sir Warwick Fairfax, James Fairfax was until the late 1980s a director and chairman of the now ailing Fairfax media empire.
The freestanding home has been marketed as a "unique private work-of-art with Bauhaus and oriental influences."
It is understood the philanthropic former newspaper man has listed the property just to reduce by one the many abodes he currently maintains.
He will retain the historic Retford Park in the NSW southern highlands, the Bilgola beachhouse, Ginahgulla, along with Stanbridge Mill at Dorset, England.
It sold at an undisclosed price through Michael Dunn and Robynne Arnouts at Richardson &amp; Wrench Double Bay in conjunction with Tim Pockley at Pockley &amp; Roderick.
Elsewhere on Edward Street, the reputed "quiet" mid-week listing of the family home  of PR maven Roxy Jacenko and her stockbroker husband Oliver Curtis has been reported by SMH Domain print and online.
But there have also been denials that the Woollahra residence is for sale.
Title Tattle understands Roxy Jacenko is selling her longheld redundant investment property elsewhere in Woollahra, <a target="_blank" href="/news">but not the principal place of residence</a>.
The SMH does not give any listing agent nor credit any source for its claim that the Edward Street house is for sale.
The SMH also claims "sources say they would be hoping to recoup their $6.6 million purchase price."
</body></html>

Bespoke James Fairfax Edward Street, Woollahra sale: Title Tattle

<html><body>
47 registered bidders, 130k above reserve - and this, ladies and gentlemen, is why we go to auction! tweeted <a target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/Andrew__Cooley">Andrew Cooley</a> after last weekend's big auction.
It was for the auction of 6 Spring Street, Padstow which sold for $780,000 through the LJ Hooker agent David Loaney.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/06/tweetofthedayjune28one.jpg" width="470" height="188" alt="tweetofthedayjune28one">
It was a full brick three bedroom cottage on 626 square metres in walking distance to the station.
There was also the chance to reap the rewards of a potential duplex subject to council approval.
There are no Padstow properties for sale this weekend, according to Australian Property Monitors.
</body></html>

47 registered bidders, sold $130,000 above reserve for Cooley Auctions: Tweet of the Day

<html><body>
PR maven Roxy Jacenko and her stockbroker husband Oliver Curtis have not listed their Woollahra residence for sale.
Sources close to the family have denied the SMH Domain "scoop" that claimed they had listed their home of two years. 
It was instead a case of counterfactual conclusions by the fledgling SMH Domain prestige property editorial reporter.
Title Tattle understands Roxy Jacenko is selling her longheld redundant investment property elsewhere in Woollahra, but certainly not the principal place of residence.
The SMH website published the claim late Thursday afternoon making two silly suggestions as to why the couple were supposedly selling for own home.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/06/roxyjune28one.jpg" alt="roxyjune28one" width="470" height="356">
<h3 class="r"><cite>smh.domain.com.au/real-estate.../</cite></h3>
<div class="s">
<div>
<div class="f slp"> </div>
1 hour ago – Roxy sweats over home sale.</div>
</div>
The SMH article came down soon after, but caught with the print version already on the streets via its Australian Financial Review publication, the inaccurate claim was expediently republished onsite on Friday morning along with video despite the growing available denials.
The SMH reporter Lucy Macken additionally alluded to Property Observer writing "contrary to an ill-informed report in trade media parroting the PR queen's claim that the off-market sale is a mix-up surrounding the couple's investment property in nearby Nelson Street, Title Deeds stands by its story."
By Friday afternoon columnist Jonathan Moran, the entertainment editor of The Daily Telegraph managed to get all the details publishing an <a href="https://m.dailytelegraph.com.au/entertainment/sydney-confidential/celebrity-apprentice-finalist-roxy-jacenko-rubbishes-reports-her-woolahra-home-is-for-sale/story-fni0cvc9-1226671220793" target="_blank">outright denial</a> from Roxy Jacenko.
The News Ltd headline did contain a mispelling of the exclusive eastern suburb.
<h1 class="heading" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 23px; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Droid Sans', sans-serif; color: #07416c; background-color: #f2f1eb;">Celebrity Apprentice finalist Roxy Jacenko rubbishes reports her Woolahra home is for sale</h1>
 
Title Tattle recalls the house that's not for sale was bought for $6.6 million in March 2011 shortly before the couple's first baby.
The Edward Street family home was bought from the rag-trading Karpin family through Richardson &amp; Wrench Double Bay agent James McCowan, in conjunction with Louise Snowden from Di Jones.
The then newly built house was on a 468 sq m block that cost $5.28 million in 2007.
The four-bedroom, four-bathroom family home has since been decorated by the society pages designer Blainey North.
The Nelson Street investment property is set for sale through Ballard Property Group who indicated the marketing photographs were only taken Thursday.
It was last listed in May 2011.
The two-bedroom, two-bathroom house on Nelson Street had a $2.8 million vendor bid, which was topped by a $2.9 million offer.
It last sold in 2006 for $2,791,000.
It has approved plans for a four-bedroom home on the 350 sq m block.
In late 2011 it was available for $1800 a week rental through Nikki Hamilton at Farquharsons Executive Rentals.
</body></html>

PR maven Roxy Jacenko and husband Oliver Curtis are not selling Woollahra family residence

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."

<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

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News