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The Sarah Lorden Real Estate agency has joined the McGrath Estate Agents group.

McGrath chief executive John McGrath says the expansion into the Balmain Peninsula with the Lorden sisters, Sarah and Kate, is an exciting opportunity.

“Sarah and Kate have worked in the area for 17 years and have created an outstanding brand with a loyal local clientele,” McGrath says.

McGrath predicts continued consolidation within the industry. 

McGrath Balmain will be a satellite to the company-owned Leichhardt office, already a dominant force in Sydney’s inner west, transacting a record $590 million in real estate last financial year. 

The successful local independent agency shared the same philosophies of sales excellence and customer service focus, McGrath says.

McGrath Balmain will have a team of 30, with Kate as licensee in charge and Sarah as associate director of sales, allowing her to continue with sales.

Kate Lorden says she and Sarah are excited about the new partnership and see it as a progression of their own careers. 

“We have long admired McGrath’s approach to marketing, training and technology. For a customer-centric business such as ours, we were attracted to their systems and management which will free us up to concentrate on a closer interaction with our customers. “ 

The McGrath Balmain office opens its doors today at 222 Darling Street.

Its major competitor is Cobden Hayson.
 
 
 
 


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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Balmain's Sarah Lorden Real Estate joins McGrath

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There was a firm start to weekend auctions in the Sydney and Melbourne residential markets, albeit on low volumes.
In Sydney there was a 72% success rate from 67 report results complied from the 80 scheduled auctions monitored by Australian Property Monitors.
On the same weekend last year there were 106 Sydney auctions and a 49% clearance rate.
But the very next weekend last February, vendors secured Sydney’s highest auction clearance rate for the year, when there was a 63% success rate.
According to Clinton McNabb, research analyst at Australian Property Monitors, the Sydney clearance rate fell gradually across the year from 59% in February to a low of 49% in December, and was 53% for the year.
APM has 198 auction listings for February 11, then 330 and 429 for the remaining February Saturdays.
Despite the big jumps in weekend volumes APM suggests the overall February total might be around 20% lower than last February.
Melbourne secured a 58% success rate from the 112 reported auctions. 
This was a slight improvment on the 56% clearance rate for Melbourne auctions in 2011.
On the same weekend last year there were 189 auctions and a 56% clearance rate.
Next weekend about 305 auctions are expected in Melbourne, then 620 and 850, according to Robert Larocca, communications manager at the Real Estate Institute of Victoria.
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Clearance rates up but volumes down in auction season opener: Weekend auction wrap

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Foreign home buyers in China will no longer be granted medium- or long-term mortgages, the National Development and Reform Commission announced last week.
The new policy is the government's latest measure to cool the country's property market, despite foreigners only accounting for a very small portion of home buyers.
Statistics from Centaline Property Agency (CPA) Ltd show that in 2009 the proportion of homes in Beijing's pre-owned property market owned by people from overseas stood at 0.79%.
The purchase of new apartments by foreign buyers had been had been on the rise, with CPA noting for apartments sales valued at more than 3 million yuan ($476,000), the figure was more than 10% during 2009.
In 2007 the figure was 0.4% and in 2008 it was 0.32%.
In July 2006, China launched a policy restricting property purchases by foreigners. According to that policy, only expatriates who have studied or lived in China for more than one year can buy property, with purchases capped at one apartment for self-use.
"The new restriction will affect sales of some of our high-end projects," said Grant Ji, director of the investment department at the real estate service provider Savills Property Services (Beijing) Co Ltd.
"One of the major barriers is the currency. People who don't work in China are only allowed to exchange a maximum of $50,000, which is not even enough to meet the down payment. If medium- to long-term loans are prohibited, it will be almost impossible for them to purchase a home," Ji told ChinaDaily website.
 
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China tightens mortgage policy for foreigners as part of cooling measures

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Hairdressing entrepreneur Stefan Ackerie has relisted his remaining Woolloomooloo Finger Wharf unit.
The Brisbane-based hairdresser has used the 51-square-metre one-bedroom east facing apartment – which comes with a 31-square-metre entertainment deck overlooking the navy wharf – as a base for staff.
It’s expected to fetch about $700,000, having cost $642,000 in 2007. There were $700,000 hopes on its 2008 and 2009 listing, Title Tattle recalls.
Ackerie secured $1,645,000 for his other one-bedroom wharf unit in 2009, but that came with a terrace on the northern boardwalk, one car space and a 13-metre marina berth. Stefan had paid $1.65 million in 2008.
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Hairdresser Stefan Ackerie aims for final trim to Woolloomooloo wharf holdings: Title Tattle

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The California-based Jackson Family Wines has acquired South Australia-based Hickinbotham Clarendon Vineyard in McLaren Vale wine region.
The vineyard comprises 186 hectares of land best known for its production of shiraz, grenache and cabernet sauvignon. About half the Clarendon Vineyard property is planted with vines.
The estate was praised by international wine critic Robert Parker in his book The World’s Greatest Wine Estates as one of the world’s greatest vineyards.
The property, which features a chateau-inspired main house and an earth shelter house, fetched around its $10 million expectations, a heartening price given estimates that 20% of the country’s vineyards are surplus to requirements.
The Onkaparinga River flows through the estate.
“It says something that an iconic American wine company wants to have a stake in Australia and in the Clarendon Hills,” said David Hickinbotham, who managed the family vineyard.
The family put it up for sale after the 2010 death of home builder Alan Hickinbotham, David’s father, who had bought the estate several decades ago.
“We had six offerings and we all agreed that this was the best fit,” David told Wine Spectator.
Grapes from the vineyard have found their way into iconic wines including Penfolds Grange.
Jackson’s property portfolio also includes Yangarra Estate, a 170-hectare wine estate less than tthree kilometres from Clarendon, with 100 hectares under vine, which was purchased in 2000 from Normans Wines.
One of the first vineyards planted at elevation in South Australia, Clarendon Vineyard dates back to 1858. Set between 180 to 240 metres in elevation, it has dry-grown vines, some of which were planted in 1923, along with modern irrigated vineyards.
The estate includes a 740-square-metre stone mansion, designed in 1995 for Alan by the architect Rob Cheesman. David lived in the smaller Earth Shelter House, designed by the German architect Gerhard Schurer in 1981 and built into a hillside.
The Jackson group plans to convert both into hospitality houses for guests.
Although the Hickinbothams also sold their 690-hectare Paringa vineyard in the Murray River region last year for a reputed $8 million, they still own a 160-hectare vineyard in the Currency Creek appellation, about an hour’s drive south of Clarendon.
Katie Jackson, daughter of the company’s late founder Jess Jackson and current chairwoman Barbara R. Banke, will be responsible for the Clarendon property. She worked the harvest last year at Yangarra Park.
“We see more interest in Australia wines, especially at the high-quality end,” Jackson told Wine Spectator.
At the time of its October 2010 listing through Brock Harcourts Victor Harbor, Roman Bratasiuk, the internationally renowned winemaker at nearby Clarendon Hills winery, suggested the sale of Clarendon Winery was "a once-in-a-generation opportunity to join the ranks of Australia’s great vineyard owners".
 
 
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US-based Jackson Family Wines buys SA’s Hickinbotham Clarendon Vineyard

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One of the largest retail/residential properties on Redfern Street, Redfern has been sold for $2.25 million through Ben Forsyth at McGrath Estate Agents.
It’s a whole building on 436 square metres of land. It comes with 100 square metres of space on the lower level, plus about 200 square metres parking for 10 cars. It’s described as a creative space ideal for a company headquarters or a live/work opportunity, given the second floor has two one-bedroom apartments. The property was sold with vacant possession, having been priced at $2.5 million.
It’s expected the property will use its commercial kitchen, with the ground floor becoming a café.
The upper floor studio spaces will be for lease.
The December sale followed fewer than a handful on the Redfern strip, which included the former post office commercial premises at <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/new-south-wales/redfern-proving-magnetic-for-coal-execs/2011062250564" target="_blank">113-119 Redfern Street sold by spruiker Max Markson</a> through McGrath agent Paul Ephron at $2,125,000 in May.
In January 2011 the 209-square-metre holding at 74 Pitt Street sold at $2.05 million, having been listed through Ben Forsyth. It was the 1880s Quirks Grocery Building, a mixed-use premises offering with a total annual income of about $133,000 from two independent residences, a café and separate office. It was architect-redesigned 12 years ago.
Forsyth says the latest sale underpins his views that Redfern is going through a renaissance.
He says The Block being demolished, the new indigenous arts college and the Sydney City upgrade have all lead to major changes in the inner-city suburb.
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Cafe lifestyle descends on Redfern as corporate home office sells for $2.25 million

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<img src="/images/stories/crashquote.jpg">
Finance sage <a target="_blank" href="https://www.smh.com.au/business/property-crash-just-a-myth-20120201-1qtcz#ixzz1lIFoQ23v">Ian Verrender gives his property price forecast</a> in the Sydney Morning Herald.
And speaking of punting the house ... social commentator Melissa Hoyer jestingly noted she'd done so last weekend on Black Caviar's race. <img src="/images/stories/backdoormat.jpg"> 
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Don't bet on a crash: Quote of the week

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Headingley House, the Woollahra home of John Spender QC, is set for sale.

It was his diplomat father, Sir Percy Spender, who bought it from the Kater pastoralist family in 1949 for £11,676.

About two years ago Russell Crowe and Danielle Spencer were allowed through Headingley House when Spender first thought he might get something like $18 million.

Its latest listing is through Ben Collier at McGrath.

The dapper Queens Counsel, who now does commercial arbitration, moved into the stunning Georgian-style Wellington Street residence in 1985. While he was the Member of the House of Representatives for the seat of North Sydney he would occasionally take the trip from his eastern suburbs home to the lower North Shore electorate in his late father's white Rolls Royce.

His politician father, an eminent jurist, had left his bar practice in 1949 and entered the Federal political arena when the Liberals took office and Sir Percy Spender became minister for external affairs, during which he negotiated the ANZUS Treaty. He then was posted to Washington in 1951 as Australian ambassador and in 1958 was appointed Australia's first judge of the International Court of Justice and in 1964 became its president.

Woollahra has had six sales above $10 million since 2007.

The record is a Rush Street compound for $16 million in 2008 which McGrath agents James Dack and Ben Collier secured for the Pagent family. It was a three-terrace Rush Street amalgamation spread over 588 sq m. The $16 million compound was bought by Rosanne Williams, partner of John Grill, from the oil and gas engineering firm Worley Parsons. During the Pagent family ownership, it had been extensively renovated by architect Alexander Tzannes, having traded in 1999 for $2.75 million

Last year's highest sale was $10.6 million.

The Kater pastoral dynasty headed by Sir Norman was centred around the 1900 Federation Cudal property Nyrang. Sir Norman, who was trained as a doctor, then took over the Egelabra Stud at Warren in 1910.

He died in 1965.

<h2>Latest listings on Urban:</h2>

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John Spender's Woollahra Headingley House set for sale

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The best property bets for Sydney property in 2012 would be most areas in the western suburbs, according to valuer Herron Todd White.
“This segment of the market should see steady capital growth and strong rental returns throughout the year,” the group has forecast.
“Best bets for 2012 would be most areas in the west at the lower to middle end of the market.
“We are seeing signs that small investors are continuing to return to the market in good numbers, looking to take advantage of strong rental returns in areas such as Mount Druitt.”
The valuer suggests new property investors had been “possibly spooked by the stock market fluctuations of late 2011”.
HTW says it is difficult to predict how things will progress as 2011 threw up plenty of challenges with the continuing resources boom counterbalancing poor economic global performance and some lack of business confidence.
“The challenge is trying to see through the macro and micro indicators and come up with a balanced view on how residential will perform this year.
“It seems that good local knowledge of each market’s different sectors is vital.
“The big picture view and blanket statements can prove all too general in a market like this current one.”
It noted The Hills acreage/prestige market appeared as though it would remain quite stagnant with negative growth a possibility through 2012, “so probably one to avoid”.
A major problem pinpointed for the Sydney market was how prospective purchasers react to the changes to the stamp duty exemption.
“This may price out first home buyers who fuel the market in the south west suburbs.”
It noted the upper range of the market had already stalled with very few high end properties selling in the last six months.
“The unemployment rate will also cause some effect,” the report notes.
Local agents in Western Sydney believe immigration is another possible reason for increase in property values, with areas surrounding Auburn and Parramatta remaining popular.
“With cheaper prices and a central location, foreign purchasers have kept the market strong and is predicted to continually grow in 2012,” HTW notes.
In Liverpool and Fairfield areas, the upper range had slowed, however, the properties under the median prices were selling quite well and are also expected to continue in 2012.
The Bankstown and Liverpool areas are envisaged to have “good buys” in 2012, with unit prices approximately $200,000 to $250,000, providing a good rental return of approximately $300-$340  to per week, which would represent a solid net yield.
The report notes the big influences looming for 2012 on eastern suburb property markets were largely dependent on the current economic climate in the US and Europe.
“As a result high end markets such as the eastern suburbs will be worst affected if the predicted white collar recession eventuates,” HTW notes.
“The coming year will still present opportunities in the lower to mid range Eastern Suburbs, as well as mid range dwellings in the Botany Bay, Leichhardt and Marrickville LGAs.”
The expectations in north-west Sydney were generally “pretty positive: with the residential market expected to remain fairly steady”.
The report noted the area was still growing at a fairly rapid rate with major land subdivisions and new estates in the Hills/Blacktown area (The Ponds, Rouse Hill, Ropes Crossing, Bunya Estate at Doonside) and Penrith (Jordan Springs, Waterside development at Cranebrook, Glenmore Park and Claremont Meadows).
In the southern suburbs the report noted the proposed Sharks residential/commercial development at Woolooware as one watch along with work on the light rail extension through the inner west, as another significant property price shaping event.
 
 
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Western suburbs best bets for Sydney investors in 2012: HTW

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Kalaurgan, the renovated, heritage-listed, gothic revival-style Moss Vale property, remains for sale but with reduced price expectations. Shena Jackson, the former sports industry executive, will now take $995,000 for the Southern Highlands property.
Some $1.4 million was sought in 2009, then $1,275,000 in 2010 and $1.15 million in February 2011.
It’s the residence that Mary MacKillop occupied in the 1880s, according to the marketing campaign, which hasn’t worked miracles.
The 3,768-square-metre Browley Street property, which last traded at $860,000 in 2008, has been listed through Victoria Morish and Susannah Anderson at Di Jones in conjunction with John Renouf at Highlands Property.
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No miracles for Mary MacKillop's former Moss Vale property: Most Discounted Trophy Home of the Week

ASX-listed developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/stockland">Stockland</a>&nbsp;is continuing its push back into the new apartment market, filing plans for a prominent gateway site between Collingwood and East Melbourne.

The development giant, which moved back into the new apartment space when it announced Stanton Place in Sydney's Rosebery and have since filed plans for a 50-storey tower, are jumping into the off the plan Melbourne market.

They are hoping to create a mixed-use neighbourhood precinct for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/79-81-victoria-parade-collingwood-vic-3066">79-81 Victoria Parade</a>, replacing an existing commercial building with a scheme by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/john-wardle-architects">Wardle</a>&nbsp;for 478 apartments,&nbsp;ground-floor retail, new public open spaces and a publicly accessible pedestrian laneway.

<img alt="First look: Stockland plans new mixed-use neighbourhood precinct for Collingwood gateway site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="72dbbca9-3918-4073-afad-a0c0c35be8e7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/stockland%20pers.png?VersionId=bzMVUKKxvwuNK1m0v_td126Rgct32uk_" />

The design report identifies the public realm as a central driver of the proposal.

"Collingwood has limited access to high-quality parks and public open space, and the proposal delivers valuable new areas for respite, social interaction and fine-grain retail activity."

The development would deliver a diverse mix of housing, including studio, one, two and three-bedroom apartments alongside townhouse-style residences. Two basement levels are proposed beneath the development, providing resident and retail parking as well as extensive bicycle facilities.

Wardle's design draws heavily on Collingwood's industrial character, using articulated building forms, brickwork and robust materials inspired by the suburb's warehouse and manufacturing heritage. The built form has been broken into a series of smaller volumes to better respond to the surrounding streetscape while extensive communal gardens, rooftop amenities and shared resident spaces are integrated throughout the project.

<img alt="First look: Stockland plans new mixed-use neighbourhood precinct for Collingwood gateway site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7b2135ed-65df-4253-ad53-f216f06bd467" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/stockland%20podium.png?VersionId=l1B6Hqn8zs772VxH6L1fDPg0KHshan9v" />

The planning documents describe the existing office building as offering little engagement with the public realm, with the redevelopment intended to create a more permeable and active neighbourhood destination.

"The proposed scheme presents a significant opportunity to deliver a vibrant retail plaza and a local neighbourhood hub serving both existing and future Collingwood residents."

The 79–81 Victoria Parade site occupies a strategic location about 1.5 kilometres east of Melbourne's CBD, at the threshold between Collingwood and East Melbourne. It is well served by tram services along Victoria Parade and sits within walking distance of St Vincent's Hospital, Fitzroy Gardens, the Fitzroy activity centre and a broad range of employment, retail and hospitality destinations.

Joel Robinson

Stockland plans new mixed-use neighbourhood precinct for Collingwood gateway site

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.

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.

<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.

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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."

[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.

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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. 
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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. 
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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. 
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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> 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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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. 
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"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. 
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"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. 
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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. 
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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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Jonathan Chancellor

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