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Those battler's from NSW, Steve and Michelle have the most to gain from their questionable renovation and decor skills in the Channel 7 home renovation stress series, House Rules.
Their mortgage - and therefore potential prize - stands at  $629,000.
The next biggest was $545,000 for the WA couple, Jemma and Ben.
Steve and Michelle paid $650,000 last year for their termite infested shack in the final renovation.
It's the worst house in the street, they said of the property bought through Ray White Bayview agent Mark Clarke in May 2012. The four bedrrom house sits on an 860 square metre block.
It was not unexpectedly the priciest of the six homes featured in the series being in Sydney's northern beaches.
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/renovating/smallest-mortgage-rests-with-the-nundah-renovation-rookies-in-houserules-queensland/2013061162147">The smallest mortgage - and potential prize - was $300,000 in Brisbane.</a>
State by state House Rules prize guide
NSW Steve and Michelle - $650,000 purchase; $629,000 mortgage.
QLD Amy and Sean $365,000 purchase; $300,000 mortgage.
SA Carly and Leighton $450,000 purchase; $450,000 mortgage.
TAS Jane and Plinio $355,000 purchase; $315,000 mortgage.
VIC Nick and Chris $555,000 purchase; $524,000 mortgage.
WA Jemma and Ben $550,000 purchase; $545,000 mortgage.
House Rules premiered in May, sometimes competing against the Channel 9 perennial, The Block.
The new state-versus-state renovation series, from the makers of My Kitchen Rules, aimed to deliver true home renovations.
The six contestant couples have put their entire home on the line promising an emotional return to their new homes after the seven-day renovation.
The teams have to work independently on their own zone within each house but they also have to work as a team to ensure each room complements the other when it's completed.
The six teams competing are: <a href="https://au.tv.yahoo.com/house-rules/teams/article/-/16802165/michelle-steve-nsw/"></a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://au.tv.yahoo.com/house-rules/teams/article/-/16802165/michelle-steve-nsw/">Michelle &amp; Steve</a> (Collaroy Plateau, New South Wales) <a href="https://au.tv.yahoo.com/house-rules/teams/article/-/16802279/nick-chris-vic/"></a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://au.tv.yahoo.com/house-rules/teams/article/-/16802347/amy-sean-qld/">Amy &amp; Sean</a> (Nundah, Queensland)
<a target="_blank" href="https://au.tv.yahoo.com/house-rules/teams/article/-/16802523/carly-leighton-sa/">Carly &amp; Leighton</a> (Warradale, South Australia) <a href="https://au.tv.yahoo.com/house-rules/teams/article/-/16802965/jemma-ben-wa/"></a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://au.tv.yahoo.com/house-rules/teams/article/-/16802965/jemma-ben-wa/">Jemma &amp; Ben</a> (Melville, Western Australia)
<a target="_blank" href="https://au.tv.yahoo.com/house-rules/teams/article/-/16803037/jane-plinio-tas/">Jane &amp; Plinio</a> (New Town, Tasmania)
<a target="_blank" href="https://au.tv.yahoo.com/house-rules/teams/article/-/16802279/nick-chris-vic/">Nick and Chris</a> (Preston, Victoria)
Each of the six House Rules teams hand over the keys to their homes and allow their competitors free reign to transform their house, so the host Johanna Griggs expected plenty of passion and pride in the way teams tackled the renovations.
"It's a bunch of likeable Australians with amazing back stories," Griggs said.
The twist in the series sees the contestants turn their attention to the gardens.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Steve and Michelle's House Rules Collaroy Plateau mortgage - the series biggest prize payoff possibility

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Amy and Sean, the renovation rookies paid $365,000 for their Brisbane home which is being renovated this week on the Channel 7 series, House Rules.
And their mortgage has been revealed as just $300,000, the smallest among the five competition couples, with NSW yet to be advised.
The previous smallest mortgage was Jane and Plinio in Hobart who paid $355,000 and have a $315,000 mortgage or prize at stake in the Channel 7 home renovation stress series.
The Hobart buyers had the cheapest house in the series hosted by Johanna Griggs. 
The 1960 Nundah, Brisband three bedroom house on a 405 square metre block sold through Go Gecko estate agent Renee Rennie in June last year.
It has 90 square metres of space.
Set nine kilometres from the Brisbane CBD, it was listed with $350,000 plus hopes.  It sold within nine days of its initial marketing with the title held in Sean's name.
RP Data gives <a target="_blank" href="/news">the suburb's median house price as $585,000</a>, having gone up 6.8% over the past year.
Property Observer reported this week that <a target="_blank" href="/news">renovation delights</a> are all the go in Brisbane this year.
The state-versus-state renovation series, from the makers of My Kitchen Rules, delivers exiting true home renovations.
The six contestant couples have put their entire home on the line promising an emotional return to their new homes after the seven-day renovation.
The teams have to work independently on their own zone within each house but they also have to work as a team to ensure each room complements the other when it's completed. The prize is having their mortgage wiped completely.
The six teams competing are: <a href="https://au.tv.yahoo.com/house-rules/teams/article/-/16802165/michelle-steve-nsw/"></a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://au.tv.yahoo.com/house-rules/teams/article/-/16802165/michelle-steve-nsw/">Michelle &amp; Steve</a> (Collaroy Plateau, New South Wales) <a href="https://au.tv.yahoo.com/house-rules/teams/article/-/16802279/nick-chris-vic/"></a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://au.tv.yahoo.com/house-rules/teams/article/-/16802347/amy-sean-qld/">Amy &amp; Sean</a> (Nundah, Queensland)
<a target="_blank" href="https://au.tv.yahoo.com/house-rules/teams/article/-/16802523/carly-leighton-sa/">Carly &amp; Leighton</a> (Warradale, South Australia) <a href="https://au.tv.yahoo.com/house-rules/teams/article/-/16802965/jemma-ben-wa/"></a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://au.tv.yahoo.com/house-rules/teams/article/-/16802965/jemma-ben-wa/">Jemma &amp; Ben</a> (Melville, Western Australia)
<a target="_blank" href="https://au.tv.yahoo.com/house-rules/teams/article/-/16803037/jane-plinio-tas/">Jane &amp; Plinio</a> (New Town, Tasmania)
<a target="_blank" href="https://au.tv.yahoo.com/house-rules/teams/article/-/16802279/nick-chris-vic/">Nick and Chris</a> (Preston, Victoria)
Each of the six House Rules teams hand over the keys to their homes and allow their competitors free reign to transform their house, so the host Johanna Griggs expects lots of passion and pride in the way teams tackle the renovations.
"It's a bunch of likeable Australians with amazing back stories," Griggs said.
The highest mortgage, and therefore potential prize, is the $545,000 mortgage of the Perth newlyweds Jemma Blenkinsop, who runs a spray-tan business and builder, Ben Van Ryt.
They were first-home buyers in late 2011, but with the Perth property market the way it is, they couldn't afford to renovate their 1950s Melville home <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/renovating/house-rules-judging-with-%24545000-perth-mortgage-repayment-reward-possibility-on-the-line-houserules-theblock9/2013052061490">that cost $555,000</a>.
Adelaide's Carly and Leighton have a $450,000 mortgage secured to buy a 1957 sandstone house in Warradale.
The South Australian couple actually <a target="_blank" href="/news">paid $450,000 for the house </a>which had been listed with $485,000 hopes in May 2012.
Nick and Chris, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/news/preston-house-rules-renovation-with-%24524000-mortgage-after-%24555000-purchase/2013052961771">the Channel 7 Melbourne House Rules brothers bought their Californian bungalow in Preston</a> for $555,000 last August.
It comes with a mortgage of $524,ooo which will be wiped off the 1930s bungalow which went to July 2012 Ray White auction without success, subsequently being listed at $580,000.
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Smallest mortgage rests with Amy and Sean, the Nundah renovation rookies in House Rules, Brisbane Queensland

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Sydney vendors notched up almost a 70% clearance rate from 200 weekend auctions results. The weekend auction clearance rate of 69.7% was nearly 20 percentage points higher than last year's June holiday weekend result.
There were 245 scheduled so a few yet to be included - and a little down on recent activity because of the long weekend.
Canterbury Bankstown and Sydney's south had clearance rates of 86% and 80% respectively. The average price in Canterbury Bankstown was $683,000 and $743,000 in the south. Australian Property Monitors says there are more than 400 auctions for the next two Saturdays.
(Melbourne bounces back to 700 plus auctions after just 150 this weekend with a 66% success rate.) 
The big Sydney weekend sale was an Abbotsford offering - a modest four bedroom, three level riverfront that last sold sold more than four decades ago. Back in 1969 it sold for $28,250. Fetching $4,155 million on the weekend through Sahar Tanner and Peter Shield at McGrath Estate Agents, it was marketed as one of a few remaining original homes in a prestige enclave.
Occupying a 750 square metre street-to-deep waterfront landholding, it came with pool, jetty, pontoon, boat ramp and lock-up boat shed. At $450,000 above reserve given six bidders battled for 47 Abbotsford Parade, Abbotsford.
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.mcgrath.com.au/buy/house-abbotsford-nsw-2046/161093/?searchID=29646746">All looking out over Hen And Chicken Bay</a>.
That name dates back to 1788 when  Captain John Hunter of the Sirius led a boating search party up the river, but just why the enduring name Hen &amp; Chicken was given to the bay is unclear.
Its price appreciation reflects 12% annual growth over the 43 years. Abbotsford has recorded three higher sales.
Dr Andrew Wilson, the senior economist for the Fairfax-owned Australian Property Monitors, says the prospects remain strong for increased buyer activity in Sydney's usually quieter winter home auction market following the most active autumn in three years and despite the Reserve Bank leaving interest rates on hold this month.
 
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Abbotsford tops weekend auctions with $4.155 million riverfront sale

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Australia’s largest independent property advisors, Herron Todd White, have appointed Andrew Robertson as its first non-executive director to its board.
Andrew Robertson is a fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, bringing business expertise including management consulting, advertising, marketing and business development.
He has also has valuation industry experience through his previous role as chief executive officer of Valuation Exchange (ValEx).
 “I am impressed with Herron Todd White’s strategic priorities including a real commitment to quality, investment in people, development of new technology systems, and a ‘customer first’ approach to business.
"As CEO of ValEx, I gained an understanding of what banking and finance clients were looking for in their valuation partners,” Mr Robertson said.
Herron Todd White Chairman, Gavin Hulcombe, says the appointment was significant as the group approached the major milestone of $100 million in turnover this financial year.
“After five years of successful growth in which Herron Todd White has doubled in size despite a challenging market environment, we have decided to strengthen our board through the additional governance, business vision and specialised skill sets of two non-executive directors,” Mr Hulcombe said.
 
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Andrew Robertson appointed to Herron Todd White board

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Fund manager Will Vicars holds the mantle of Australia’s most expensive apartment owners, after his decison to buying two adjoining penthouses off the plan on Campbell Parade Bondi Beach for $21 million.
The Sydney-based Caledonia Investments chief investment officer set the new national record buying the first on the initial release last October for $10.9 million and then the second more recently for $10.1 million.
His top floor space in the redevelopment of the Swiss Grand Hotel will  have a total size of 975 square metres, including a 468 square metre terrace fronting the beach.
"For me, this is an opportunity to create a spectacular apartment, which may become our future family home in Bondi," Fairfax Media reported after word of the sale was published last Friday by the Property Observer<a href="/news"> Title Tattle </a>column.
CBRE Residential chairman Justin Brown said the Vicars apartment would set a benchmark in Australian beachside living. It reflects around $40,000 a square metre based on its internal space.
But his price record could be broken as the developers have set about consolidating another two of the seven top floor penthouses for a slightly larger unit which comes with $25 million to $29 million plus hopes after its BKH fitout through CBRE and McGrath Projects.
The base asking price is $25 million, but depending on the finishes chosen, it could cost $29 million the developer Eduard Litver of Capit.el Group told Property Observer. "Someone from overseas might want gold tiles - you just don't know what they're going to want," Mr Brown jestingly advised Fairfax Media.
The previous Sydney top apartment sale which took place in 2008 for a 12th-floor unit in the Bennelong development at East Circular Quay which fetched $16.8 million when bought by the Moran health care family. It was their third adjoining unit in the complex.
 
 
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Caledonia Investments fund manager Will Vicars confirmed as $21 million Pacific Bondi Beach penthouse record price setter

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The retired AFL football champion Jason Akermanis has sold his Aberfeldie family home.
Megan Akermanis, the wife of the Brownlow medalist had the four-bedroom house listed for early June auction through Lou Rendina at Rendina Real Estate Kensington.
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/jason-akermanis-lists-aberfeldie-home-as-he-moves-north/2013051061217">More than $2 million was being quoted</a>, with the sale price undisclosed given the deal was secured before auction.
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-aberfeldie-113769967">"It is a home of landmark luxury - and benchmark beauty," the marketing said.</a>
The house cost $1.51 million in 2007.
In 2011 Akermanis played for the the local side, the Abers in the Essendon District Football League for one game.
He has been appointed captain-coach of the Hoppers for 2013, with the option of an extension in 2014.
Akermanis played with Brisbane, and then almost three seasons at the Bulldogs.
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Jason Akermanis sells in Aberfeldie

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Andrew Stockdale, the hard rock lead singer of Wolfmother has spent $1.6 million on a Byron Bay cottage.

Its a four bedroom, three bathroom house (pictured below).

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7758]

Its been the NSW north coast town where he wrote and recorded the songs for his new solo album, Keep Moving.

It was listed last November with $1.7 million hopes.

Stockdale officially took possession shortly after Easter this year.

It last sold for $740,000 in 2006.

Last year Stockdale listed two adjoining Prince Street, Paddington Brisbane properties.

He sold a two-level cottage (pictured below) with two-bedrooms and studio, with double-glazed windows, <a href="https://spaceproperty.com.au/r1929378/69-Prince-Street-Paddington" target="_blank">for $725,000</a> through Judi O’Dea of Space Property.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=22057]

He'd transformed the home adding a sound proof studio where by Wolfmother's Platinum album Cosmic Egg was written and recorded.
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Wolfmother's Andrew Stockdale spends $1.6 million at Byron Bay

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Estate agent Jonathan Dixon of JP Dixon has confirmed Shane Warne's Brighton home, Kilkerran is officially listed for sale.
<a href="https://www.jpdixon.com.au/view.php?OID=5632107" target="_blank">The asking price is believed to be around $15 million</a>.
It was last August when the house unofficially hit the market with a report from the United Kingdom suggesting Shane Warne was preparing to relocate from Brighton in Melbourne to Britain and set up home with his intended wife, Elizabeth Hurley.
The <a href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-2194181/Shane-Warne-puts-Melbourne-home-market-amid-reports-Elizabeth-Hurley-investing-6million-mansion" target="_blank">Daily Mail report</a> suggested his Melbourne mansion was on the market, and that he and Hurley were off to Donnington Hall (pictured below), a 13 bedroom Georgian mansion on the Gloucestershire-Herefordshire border.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/08/donningtonhall.jpg">
She already owned in Gloucestershire.
<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">
In November, the Ledbury Reporter revealed the house-hunting rumours when the couple strolled into Greggs the bakers on the High Street.
"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">custard slice and Shane, two sausage rolls</a>," the Malvern Gazette wrote yesterday.
Last August The Melbourne Age entered the speculative fray reporting there was a $20 million asking price on the Brighton home, but also acknowledging Warne's manager, James Erskine, denial that the Brighton home was for sale.
The Age claimed local sources said prospective buyers have been seen touring the five-bedroom property.
The heritage-listed property was bought for $8.55 million in 2009 with his then-wife Simone Callahan.
Its since been completely renovated to include a wine room, a gym, basement garage, tennis court, cinema and a pool with Warne's cricket number, 23, inscribed on the bottom of the pool.
No photos have yet been published on the JP Dixon website although internal images were aired on the Sunday Today program on June 16. <a href="https://www.jpdixon.com.au/view.php?OID=5632107" target="_blank">The marketing began June 19 for the house.</a>
Meanwhile Ricky Ponting, the retired Australian cricket captain, has listed his Sutherland Shire home as he prepares to move to Melbourne's Brighton.
Just weeks after reputedly paying close to $10 million, Ponting and wife, Rianna have McGrath Estate Agents selling their five-bedroom Burraneer Bay house.
It has been listed with unconfirmed $4.75 million plus expectations.
Overlooking Port Hacking, the tri-level house (pictured below) comes with infinity pool and private jetty, boatshed and pontoon.
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/2013/04/april23burraneer]}
Listing agent Sean Egan says its has "world class views" over the Port Hacking and Royal National Park.
It also features a wet bar, sauna, guest accommodation and a home cinema. Offers were due last last month, but the property remains listed.
The house has been renovated since Ponting and his wife, Rianna, bought it for $3.8 million in 2006.
The Shandford Estate, a 1920s Edwardian seven-bedroom house on 1890 square metres of land in Brighton, has a billiard room, library, tennis court and a private laneway to the nearby beach.
It was bought on March 6 having last sold at $2.7 million in 1999 when the Hunter family bought it from Tasman United Coal.
When last sold 14 years ago the Brighton residence had a sunroom with bay views and six bedrooms, the main one with an en suite bathroom, spa and its own balcony.
Downstairs were the enormous reception foyer, formal living and dining rooms, the kitchen and informal areas.
A stunning Waterford crystal chandeliers and a custom-made, pure-wool carpet with borders complemented the gracious interiors in the late 1990s.
It was sold by private treaty through JP Dixon in March with reported $12 million expectations held by Jeffrey Hunter, whose company Hunter Products supplies toys, sporting and leisure equipment to Australian retailers.
Sydney Confidential in the Daily Telegraph suggests the Ponting couple are seeking a "lifestyle" change. Ponting is also set to play cricket with the Melbourne Stars to give the team a publicity boost.
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Shane Warne officially lists Brighton home

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Interior designer Darren Palmer, the judge on The Block, has sold his Bondi Beach abode ahead of its mid-week auction. No price has been divulged but it had $900,000-plus hopes, and Palmer is known to have been very pleased with the result which has been tipped as $1.03 million.
There was a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pTcfO_HxJRI" target="_blank">YouTube video</a> where Darren Palmer took inspectees through the chic contemporary Hastings Parade beach haven in Bondi Beach.
It sold through Sean Jacobson at LJ Levi.
Channelling classic Hamptons influences, <a href="https://www.ljlevi.com.au/855190/" target="_blank">it has been rebuilt from a shell apparently with a soothing coastal palette and carefully selected finishes reflecting its seaside surrounds</a>.
It's set on half of the top floor of an art deco block of four with three bedrooms and two bathrooms.
Palmer lives there with his partner, who Title Tattle notes technically owns the property, along with their son, and two dogs and a cat.
The interior designer had also listed his Potts Point investment apartment through Anthony Birdsall of Laing Real Estate who was initially seeking $550,000, but now entertaining offers at $525,000 plus.
The Gladstone, Queensland-born Palmer bought the <a href="https://laing.com.au/872238/" target="_blank">fifth floor art deco Cahors apartment</a> in 2007 for $360,000.
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/2013/05/may20palmerone]}
The common area has Opera House and Harbour Bridge views.
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/2013/05/may20palmertwo]}
Its since been renovated with the removal of two walls, installing nib walls and a new kitchen and new bathroom. It is currently rented at $520 a week.
The 1938 building has 72 units above its pale-blue-tiled entrance and opulent foyer designed by Joseland &amp; Gilling.
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Darren Palmer secures Bondi sale but in cahoots with buyer on price non-disclosure

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Natalie Bassingthwaighte, the pop singer, actress and X Factor Australia television judge, has listed her Elwood investment property.
The three-bedroom, two-bathroom period <a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-elwood-113951203">Elwood investment </a>cost $595,000 in 2005. The open plan living/dining area opens to a covered deck with open fireplace and private courtyard.
There's a gourmet Miele kitchen appliances with breakfast bar, corian bench tops and concealed fridge/freezer.
The peaceful upstairs parents' retreat comes with dressing room &amp; ensuite bathroom through to a nursery/study.
It comes with hydronic heating, air conditioning, Bose surround-sound, under-stair storage, ceiling roses, chocolate-toned floorboards and plantation shutters.
Since she married her former Rogue Traders band mate, drummer Cameron McGlinchey, in 2010, they have two children and recently bought in Brighton.
They spent about $2.25 million on a four bedroom, two bathroom Federation house on what Title Tattle considers to be among Brighton's top 10 streets given its 400 metres from beach, Church Street shops, cinema and the railway.
The neighbouring three bedroom one bathroom Elwood house sold for $896,000 in May 2010.
Matt White at Ray White Port Phillip has $1.1 million plus hopes for the June 29 auction.
Last year Natalie Bassingthwaighte sold her Elizabeth Bay apartment in Sydney for $850,000.
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Natalie Bassingthwaighte lists Elwood investment

An 1880s timber cottage that has survived Kangaroo Point's transformation from riverside suburb to high-density apartment precinct is set to become the centrepiece of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/zephyr">Zephyr Group</a>'s proposed Banksia development.

Rather than see the locally heritage-listed Alpha Cottage as an obstacle to navigate, plans integrate the landmark home into a new 18-storey residential tower, giving one of the suburb's oldest surviving residences a new role as the project's communal hub.

The development application covers a 1,177 sqm amalgamated site at 127-133 Lambert Street and 30 Shafston Avenue, where Zephyr Group plans to deliver 64 apartments above three basement levels. Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/joe-adsett-architects">Joe Adsett Architects</a>, the proposal carefully weaves the retained heritage cottage into a contemporary residential scheme, with the tower elevated above the historic building to preserve its presence within the Lambert Street streetscape.

<img alt="First look: Zephyr Group's Banksia to wrap new Kangaroo Point tower around 1880s Alpha Cottage" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f9dc5bdb-d691-4c60-bf2b-c3ed405a3e75" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Banksia.png?VersionId=Jh4bjlewU.o8HXWt0V4KaFA_lPcF7KWM" />

Named after the native Australian Banksia flower, the project draws inspiration from its distinctive form through curved balconies, sculpted planter boxes and cascading subtropical landscaping that soften the building's profile.

As the design report explains: "The tower's identity is defined by its feature facade, drawing direct inspiration from the Banksia wildflower. The building departs from traditional rigidity through the use of elegant, GRC-moulded planter boxes that appear as if shaped by the breeze."

Plans propose 64 apartments, comprising 32 two-bedroom and 32 three-bedroom residences, across an 18-storey tower. Residents would have access to rooftop amenities including a swimming pool, spa, gym, sauna, private cinema, dining spaces and landscaped recreation areas, while more than half the site is dedicated to planting and open space.

<img alt="First look: Zephyr Group's Banksia to wrap new Kangaroo Point tower around 1880s Alpha Cottage" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="16041b5f-033e-47fa-8fbe-9886e072c1f2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/pool.png?VersionId=kpx5w4EbLx0_TdWfDoD1vrSs0_cZ5Ao1" />

The heritage component is the defining feature of the proposal. Constructed in the early 1880s and occupied from at least 1883, Alpha Cottage is recognised by Brisbane City Council as an important surviving example of Kangaroo Point's nineteenth-century residential development and as a representative transverse-gable timber cottage. Despite extensive redevelopment across the peninsula, the building has retained a high degree of its original form and internal fabric.

As part of the redevelopment, the cottage will be carefully relocated a short distance within its original allotment to facilitate construction before being returned to a prominent position along Lambert Street. Original verandah elements will be dismantled, catalogued and reinstated, while significant internal features, including timber flooring, wall linings, joinery, doors, windows and hardware, will be retained. Later additions, including the enclosed rear verandah, will be removed to better reveal the building's original form.

Once restored, Alpha Cottage will accommodate the building manager's office, mail room and parcel facilities, providing an active everyday use that supports its long-term conservation rather than preserving it as a static display. The heritage strategy also maintains landscaped space around the building, allowing it to remain visually distinct beneath the new tower.

<img alt="First look: Zephyr Group's Banksia to wrap new Kangaroo Point tower around 1880s Alpha Cottage" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="43b027e1-576e-4624-a66c-7cc54ea8b7be" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/banksia%20tower.png?VersionId=2W6E2yfkj2AQlWlLeV986grA5zB9f817" />

The Heritage Impact Assessment concludes that "the proposal secures the ongoing occupation, maintenance and conservation of Alpha Cottage," finding the development would result in "no more than a minor impact on the cultural heritage significance" of the building while ensuring its long-term future.

Joe Adsett Architects have designed the tower to sit above the heritage building rather than overwhelm it, creating a clear visual separation between old and new. The development's flowing balconies, integrated planting and organic façade respond to Brisbane's subtropical climate while complementing the restored cottage below.

Banksia occupies a prominent corner in Kangaroo Point within walking distance of the Kangaroo Point Bridge, Brisbane River, ferry services, QUT, the CBD and the Woolloongabba precinct. The site also benefits from direct access to active transport infrastructure and sits within an area earmarked for continued higher-density residential growth.

Joel Robinson

Zephyr Group's Banksia to wrap new Kangaroo Point tower around 1880s Alpha Cottage

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

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

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

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/abadeen">Abadeen</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/perifa">PERIFA</a> have celebrated the topping out of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf,</a> marking a significant milestone in the delivery of one of Syd​ney's most anticipated waterfront communities.

Located on Sydney's harbourfront at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/putney-nsw-2112">Putney</a>, the project has now reached its highest structural point, with construction progressing strongly towards completion in 2027. 
&nbsp; 
The milestone was celebrated on-site with project partners Phoenix Property Investors, Mitsubishi Estate Asia, Versatile Construction, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, consultants and stakeholders, to recognise the collective effort behind the transformation of the historic waterfront site into a vibrant new residential, marina and lifestyle destination.

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<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. 
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"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.

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"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."

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&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."

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Construction is being delivered by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/versatile">Versatile Construction</a>, with structural works now substantially complete across the precinct. Attention will progressively shift to the construction of the waterview terraces, apartment façades, services and interior fit-out works over the coming months. 
&nbsp; 
With limited residences and marina berths remaining, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> continues to attract strong interest from owner occupiers and downsizers seeking a premium waterfront lifestyle within close proximity to Putne​y Village, Rh​odes, Top Ry​de and the Syd​ney CBD. 
&nbsp; 
As one of the last opportunities to secure a residence within a new masterplanned waterfront community on Sy​dney Harbour, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> is expected to remain a highly sought-after address for years to come.

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Abadeen, PERIFA, top out Putney Wharf harbourfront precinct

Kew has long been regarded as one of Melbourne's premier residential suburbs. It's a location defined by its grand period homes, leafy streets and some of the city's most prestigious schools, yet it has often sat just outside the spotlight cast on neighbouring Hawthorn and Camberwell.

Increasingly, however, buyers are recognising that Kew offers much of what draws people to those suburbs, with a quieter residential setting, exceptional amenity and long-term owner-occupier appeal.

Within a few minutes' walk, residents can access Kew Junction, one of Melbourne's most established village centres. Cafés, bakeries, restaurants, supermarkets, boutique retailers and everyday services are all on the doorstep, with local favourites including Centonove, Adeney Milk Bar Cafe, and Frank &amp; Harri creating the type of walkable lifestyle that has become increasingly difficult to find in Melbourne's inner east. Beyond the immediate neighbourhood, Glenferrie Road's renowned shopping and dining precinct in Hawthorn and the retail, dining and entertainment offerings of Camberwell Junction are both just a short drive or tram ride away.

The suburb is equally well connected. Tram routes 48 and 109 provide direct access to the CBD, while High Street and Cotham Road connect residents to the wider inner east.&nbsp;Nearby access to the Eastern Freeway also places the Yarra Valley, Mornington Peninsula and Melbourne Airport within easy reach, adding another layer of convenience for weekend travel.&nbsp;It's a rare combination of connectivity and tranquillity, where quiet residential streets sit just moments from some of Melbourne's most established shopping and lifestyle precincts.

For families, Kew remains one of Melbourne's most tightly held addresses. Carey Baptist Grammar School, Xavier College, Methodist Ladies' College, Trinity Grammar, Ruyton Girls' School and Genazzano FCJ College are all nearby, while the Yarra River parklands, walking trails and sporting clubs provide another layer of lifestyle appeal.

It's within this established pocket that developer Ricdanic is delivering <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/wimba-ave-kew-9-11-wimba-avenue-kew-vic-3101">Wimba Ave</a>, a boutique collection of just 13 residences across two buildings named after its location on the tree-lined Wimba Avenue,&nbsp;within one of Kew's most prestigious pockets where homes have been known to sell up to and above $8 million.

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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."

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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.

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Jonathan Chancellor

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