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Buyers don’t need to see a lot of price growth to regain confidence in the housing market, they just want to know that home values have stabilised, according to estate agent John McGrath.
"A lot of people are sitting there with cash in the bank waiting for the signal that the market has levelled,” he says.
"The underlying demand is there, people are just waiting for the bell to ring, and I think there’s a good chance that will happen in the first half of 2012.
"People are looking for some good news.”
But his summer wish list is expecting plenty, since he says "we need to see unemployment down, retail spending up, a resolution in Europe, improved bonuses and a good consistent quarter on the stock market for the prestige sector to move".
"Sentiment can turn quickly and behind the veneer of nervousness, there is a genuine desire to get into the market," McGrath adds.
McGrath suggests a lot of people de-leveraged in the GFC and they will be ready to buy again when their confidence is restored.
McGrath points to RP Data figures suggesting the window of opportunity to buy at the bottom is closing.
"Capital city home values recorded their best result in seven months in September, with falling prices slowing to only -0.2% seasonally adjusted while regional houses rose 0.1%."
He suggests with so many traditional asset classes appearing "unstable at best or volatile at worst", bricks and mortar would prove to be a popular investment avenue, particularly with the significant baby boomer market.
He notesthere had been two big investment trends in 2011 – more people buying through self-managed super funds and also increased investment from the Chinese, who see Australia as a great investment market with a strong currency and business economy and excellent education opportunities.
He has also noticed less demand from retirees in coastal markets "but this will inevitably pick up as the population continues to age".
"We’re seeing increased buyer activity and general positivity in a number of regional markets as people begin picking the bottom and taking advantage of great buying.
"Sydney investors are increasingly looking at major regional markets offering lifestyle, improving infrastructure and jobs growth such as Newcastle/Hunter, Wollongong, Byron Bay and Port Macquarie,” McGrath says.
"Rental demand, yields and capital growth prospects in these areas are excellent," he adds
Although the Gold Coast is showing new signs of life with vendors more realistic and buyer sentiment improving, McGrath concedes a recovery still has a long way to go.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Property could rebound in first half of 2012, but five factors must fall into place for prestige: John McGrath

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Anuket at Mosman Park in Perth has been listed for sale in a partially gutted state.
It last sold in 2008 when property developer Luke Saraceni bought it from mining speculator David Rigoll, the former early-1990s Colonial Resources managing director, through agent William Porteous for $16 million.
It had previously also traded at $16 million in 2007 when offloaded by Firepower director Tim Johnston, who had bought it from property developer <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/warren-anderson-homeless-and-bankrupt/2011112552549">Warren Anderson</a>.
The house was built for the Burswood Casino developer Dallas Dempster to a design by architect Louise St John Kennedy.
Its latest listing agent, William Porteous from <a target="_blank" href="https://www.porteous.com.au/property.aspx?pid=263778">William Porteous Properties International</a>, is marketing it as "one of Perth's most iconic properties". The house is gutted and ready to be finished to one's own standard, Porteous has advised potential inspectees.
It's partially renovated and partially gutted, Porteous says.
Set on a 1,425-square-metre block, it comes with five bedrooms, six bathrooms and four living areas. The Chidley Way property comes with a huge lap pool overlooking the Swan River.
It's not a rushed marketing campaign, as expressions of interest don't fall due until March 2012.
Porteous says the vendors will meet the market.
 
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Perth developer Luke Saraceni's partially gutted Mosman Park residence listed for sale 

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{yoogallery src=[images/stories/december7pymble]}
The 1902 Pymble residence sometimes known as Abia and also Coromandel has been listed for December 14 auction, sitting among the last wave of pre-Christmas auctions.
The Church Street house, which comes with five double bedrooms – three with handy fireplaces – is tipped by its McGrath agents to fetch more than $4.25 million.
Its main bedroom leads to a veranda, study/library (with marble fireplace) and a return veranda with views. The large in-ground pool has sandstone surrounds and a gazebo, and the property is set in landscaped gardens (by Gordon Sykes) on about 1,566 square metres with a northerly aspect. The Federation house on a quiet street catches views of the city skyline and Lane Cove valley.
It is also within easy access to a number of schools including PLC, Knox, Barker, Abbotsleigh and Pymble Public School.
It last traded at $3 million in 2002.
Its listing agents are Carole McCrea and Philip Waller from McGrath in conjunction with McConnell Bourn agent Matthew Bourn.
There have been about 90 house sales this year in Pymble at a $1.4 million average price, according to RP Data.
The suburb's highest disclosed sale price was $2.88 million on Taunton Street in February this year although a Bobbin Head Road house sold for about $4.1 million in April, on which RP Data yet to record its sale price.
The sales history
1975    $116,000
1986    $540,000
1988    $1.1 million
1996    $1.1 million
1998    $1,805,000
2002    $3 million
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Pymble listing aims for year high as auctions continue well into December 

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It’s been a busy year or so for Brighton’s bathing boxes, with the past 10 sales netting about $2 million. Set on one of the most photographed locales in Australia, Bayside Council sold four for a $900,000 total, while six others have been sold at about $200,000 each.
Last month three of the 85 colourful icons changed hands to other Brighton ratepayers.
There are three now up for sale and the council will auction another two newly built infill boxes in early 2012.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/stories/box26.jpg">
Box 26 (pictured above) currently has a $210,000 asking price through J P Dixon Real Estate.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/stories/box16.jpg">
Box 16 (pictured above) is for sale at $180,000-plus through Hodges.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/stories/box72.jpg">
Box 72 (pictured above) is listed without an asking price through Hodges.
Brighton Bathing Box Association treasurer Bill Meares told The Bayside Leader newspaper he's never known such a spurt. “It is fair to say the infill boxes the council have sold have created extra interest,” Meares suggests.
“Normally bathing box sales mirror the property market, but not this year, they have created their own market and demand.”
Nick Johnstone Real Estate has sold three boxes over the past two months, including box 71 and 73, which were listed through estate agent Chris Carrington.
Estate agent Nick Johnstone says they were very much "a social asset".
“People are seeing them as an alternative to a holiday home,” Johnstone says.
“They are a good family [asset]; everyone knows each other and they hold barbecues and social occasions, and this starts a chain reaction of people wanting one.”
The current average market value of a bathing box has been about $200,000.
Box 40 was been snapped up before its scheduled August auction for $210,000. It had last sold at $170,000 two years ago. It sold through Katie Reid at Nick Johnstone Real Estate.
Bathing boxes existed in Brighton as far back as 1862. The record price for a newly built bathing box was set in June at $260,000.
 
 
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Brighton bathing box market buoyant

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The investors in the collapsed Storm Financial may have to wait another year for compensation even though the Australian Securities and Investments Commission won an initial court victory against banks over their alleged involvement with Storm.
Federal Court judge Lindsay Foster rejected challenges last week by Macquarie Bank, Bank of Queensland and Senrac, the operator of a BoQ branch, against ASIC’s representative action on behalf of two former Storm investors.
Despite this procedural win, Mark Weir, co-chairman of the Storm Investors Consumer Action Group, told the Australian Financial Review the wait for compensation would be prolonged.
“We need to be patient to have it done properly. But it has been extremely tough,” Weir says.
Storm collapsed three years ago after its highly leveraged investments were hit by market volatility in December 2008.
Legal actions are under way against BoQ, Commonwealth Bank and Macquarie Bank because of their alleged involvement with Storm.
 
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Storm Financial investors face a long wait for compensation

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{yoogallery src=[images/stories/december5rosebay]}
An architecturally significant Rose Bay duplex apartment has been sold for about $5 million.
It’s atop the landmark 1961 building at the corner of New South Head and Beresford roads.
The-700-square-metre penthouse of Peter Kotzias and wife Kathryn has been sold through McGrath agents Paul Ephron and Steven Chen.
The apartment occupies the two top floors of a building designed by Ken Willoughby for the Auswild car dealer family. Newly updated by Weir Phillips Architects with interiors by Pyke Designs, the four-bedroom, four bathroom-apartment has 370 square metres internal space plus a 328-square-metre terrace opposite the harbour.
At street level it comes with a private lobby with a lift connected directly to both levels of the penthouse. It last sold at $3.63 million in 2007.
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Rose Bay penthouse in 1960s architectural icon sells for about $5 million

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{yoogallery src=[images/stories/december1holmesacourt]}
The NSW holiday home of Peter and Divonne Holmes à Court passed in at its weekend auction.

Set about one hour south of Sydney, the four-bedroom oceanfront home at <a target="_blank" href="/news">Stanwell Park</a> attracted no bids.

It comes with Luigi Roselli-designed and council-approved plans for extensive additions.

Due to spending more time in Europe, the <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/new-south-wales/peter-holmes-a-courts-nsw-coastal-retreat-listed-for-sale/2011113052622" target="_blank">Holmes à Court family have decided they won't build their dream beach house extension</a> on the 1,568-square-metre Kallaroo Avenue site.

Its McGrath Thirroul listing agent Amanda Moore had expected $2.1 million plus bidding when it was auctioned in conjunction with LJ Hooker Helensburgh.

It last traded at $2.1 million in 2008.

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Peter Holmes a Court’s NSW coastal getaway passed in

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{yoogallery src=[images/stories/october31bolivia]}
Bolivia Station, the historic rural property at Tenterfield in the New England district of northern NSW, has been sold.
It follows tenders closing November 10, when $3 million plus was being sought by Patricia McAlary, the widow of the late Sydney barrister Frank McAlary, QC, the "dancing man" caught on film while twirling his hat in the air down a Sydney street on VP Day in 1945 at the end of World War II.
Given the walk-in, walk-out inclusion of the cattle, the Bolivia price was understood to be closer to $4 million.
First taken up in 1840, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/rural/bolivia-station-in-rural-new-england-put-on-the-market-by-mcalary-family/2011103052124">Bolivia Station has been owned by the McAlary family for almost 40 years. </a>It was offered with about 500 station-bred cows and about 240 heifers. More than 30 parties inspected the 2,946-hectare property, widely regarded as one of the best in the Northern Tablelands district.
Bolivia Station includes a 243-megalitre unregulated irrigation licence, two sets of cattle yards and an original homestead in need of repair.
It was listed through Ray White Rural Tenterfield agent Bruce Birch, in conjunction with Jim Ritchie of Landmark Harcourts Glen Innes.
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Bolivia Station in NSW’s New England district sells after 40 years of McAlary family ownership

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<img src="/images/stories/bures1.jpg">
<img src="/images/stories/flagtitletat.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 5px;">The trend-setting architecturally designed Bures House (pictured above and below) in Dover Heights has been listed for sale. It was designed by architect Michael Bures on the site of the former Dover Heights post office. It’s been listed by family members through Brad Caldwell-Eyles and Cara Atchison of 1st City Hasemer+Caldwell-Eyles. Expectations are for about $2.7 million.
<img src="/images/stories/bures2.jpg">
The four-bedroom house comes with parking and expansive views of the harbour, city skyline and bridge and Opera House. Its bespoke features include a pair of industrial concrete and steel spiral staircases, striking hand-made double-fronted timber doors and a full-enclosing, mosaic ensuite shower capsule. It comes with access from either Blake Street or Military Road.
The site was purchased by Michael Bures in 1967 and building commenced in 1970. Set on a 300-square-metre block, its offers some 452 square metres of internal space. During the construction due to the design and heights of the roof it caused considerable controversy among the locals, who dubbed the building as the “Dover Heights Opera House.” The original design was intended to be an individual statement relating to the local environment and its relationship with the harbour and the city. There was consideration given to environmental matters such as utilising maximum northern light via a continuous skylight, accessing nor-east summer breeze for cooling and ventilation, and varying high vertical spaces internally to create a feeling of openness and continuity of space throughout the house and its external spaces.
<img src="/images/stories/dunne.jpg">
<img style="border-style: initial; border-color: initial; float: left; margin: 5px;" src="/images/stories/flagtitletat.jpg">Woolworths chairman James Strong and his wife, Dr Jeanne-Claude Strong, have relisted their luxury harbourfront Woolloomooloo terrace apartment. Set in the Wharf Terraces building, the apartment has four double bedrooms and three bathrooms. The apartment has its own marina berth suitable  for a 15-metre boat. Sandie Dunne and Charles Walter of Dunne Mosman are seeking offers above $3 million. Dunne has the Lincoln Crescent apartment listed with $3 million plus hopes.
<img src="/images/stories/craigymor.jpg">
<img src="/images/stories/flagtitletat.jpg" style="border-style: initial; border-color: initial; float: left; margin: 5px;">There’s apparently a new sightseeing attraction for Chinese tourists when they visit Sydney. Not just cuddly koalas and the Opera House – they have added driving along Wolseley Road, Point Piper for a <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/point-piper-on-the-chinese-tourist-route-for-insight-into-the-privileged-lives-of-communist-party-princelings/2011112852568" target="_blank">glimpse of the $32.4 million property owned by a son of a former vice-president of China</a>, according to a Wall Street Journal report. Set high on a hill, above a towering sandstone wall and overlooking Sydney Harbour with picture postcard-perfect views of the bridge, Craig-y-Mor (pictured above), the Point Piper non-waterfront residence, is owned by Zeng Wei and his wife, Jiang Mei. It cost $32.4 million in 2008.
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/november28fitzpatrick]}
<img src="/images/stories/flagtitletat.jpg" style="border-style: initial; border-color: initial; float: left; margin: 5px;">AFL chairman Mike Fitzpatrick has sold his home (pictured above) in Kew's prestigious Sackville Ward precinct, with the footy player-turned-businessman and his wife Helen Sykes off to South Yarra. After the opening $2.8 million vendor bid, there was just the one bid of $2,825,000 at its weekend auction through Marshall White agent James Tostevin. But it sold soon after at an undisclosed price. There had been $3 million plus hopes. The former Blue, who captained Carlton to premiership victories in 1981 and 1982, spent about $9 million on a South Yarra house earlier this year. Fitzpatrick's two-storey, 1920s Kew house came with five bedrooms, three bathrooms, formal sitting and dining rooms, a study, a separate lounge and a family room that opens to a large deck on its 1,179-square-metre block.
<img src="/images/stories/livingstone.jpg">
<img style="border-style: initial; border-color: initial; float: left; margin: 5px;" src="/images/stories/flagtitletat.jpg">Film producer Adriana Nunez and her guitarist partner, Chris Burnham, who performed with Supernaut in the 1970s and the Saints in the 1980s, didn't sell their Marrickville home (pictured above) at auction last weekend. The recently renovated five-bedroom three-bathroom residence remains listed with $1.3 million hopes having last traded for $760,000 in 2009.
 
<img src="/images/stories/lockyeroutside.jpg">
<img style="border-style: initial; border-color: initial; float: left; margin: 5px;" src="/images/stories/flagtitletat.jpg">Title Tattle aims to tell readers of sale deals as soon as they happen – if not sooner – so the word is that Darren Lockyer, the 36-time Queensland State of Origin team hero, has finally sold his Brisbane house (pictured above). It was for listed for August 6 auction, and sold while he was overseas playing for the Kangaroos last month. The contemporary Paddington property cost Lockyer $1.49 million in 2004. The five-bedroom, three-bathroom place might have been expected to fetch around $2 million based on the standard growth (and then decline) experienced in Brisbane over the past seven years and a nearby $2.15 million would have given Lockyer some initial comfort.
But things got tough in Brisbane as spring went on. No public price estimate has been given by its listing agents Tim Douglas and Gail Miller at Place Estate Agents. Naturally it comes with barbecue facilities that befit any Queenslander sportsman.
<img src="/images/stories/rupertswood.jpg" style="border-style: initial; border-color: initial;">
<img style="border-style: initial; border-color: initial; float: left; margin: 5px;" src="/images/stories/flagtitletat.jpg">And don't say that Title Tattle told you, but the word from Bellevue Hill is the family of the late tycoon Tan Sri Khoo Teck Puat has decided to quietly offload a Bellevue Hill investment mansion (pictured above). It has been listed through Laing + Simmons Double Bay agent Bart Doff, who has$4.5 million plus hopes for the Rupertswood Avenue house. It has also been listed for rent at $3,650 a week. It was bought in 1982 for $900,000. The colourful entrepreneur Tan Sri Khoo Teck Puat made several hundred million dollars from his purchase and resale of the Southern Pacific Hotel chain. After purchasing the chain for $110 million in 1981 he disposed of a large number of regional and lesser suburban properties at top prices and then in 1988, as the hotel market peaked, Tan Sri unloaded the group into the Hong Kong publicly listed company, William Hunt Holdings, for $540 million. Tan Sri Khoo Teck Puat was once considered Australia's richest man and later he was ranked as the 108th richest person in the world by Forbes magazine in 2004.
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Michael Bures’ 1970s ‘Dover Heights Opera House’ on the market: Title Tattle

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{yoogallery src=[images/stories/devember2bangay]}
Acclaimed landscape designer Paul Bangay is selling his city pad, and hopefully throwing in an orchid or two.
It’s a Castle Towers, South Yarra penthouse set above the residential precinct between Fawkner Park and the Royal Botanical Gardens. The two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment comes with an impressive open plan living/dining area with feature marble gas fire place and dramatic city views.
Although it’s within the complex designed by prominent architect Arthur Plaisted in the 1940s, it’s all very modern There's a fully equipped gourmet kitchen with modern European appliances and hand-selected stone benchtops. Both bedrooms have built-in wardrobes, and the master comes with ensuite.
Offers are due December 13 with Castran Gilbert South Yarra agent Lachlan Castran.
Bangay now splits his time between Melbourne and Sydney, given his impressive client list. He also maintains a Stonefields at Denver off the Daylesford-Malmsbury Road, which is regarded as one of Australia's most beautiful country gardens. Every year he opens his garden to the public to raise money for the Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Foundation, and last month the visitors were parked kilometres away in order to get a glimpse.
Marne Street's last sale was last weekend <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/auctions/weekend-auction-tipping-result/2011112752553">when an older-style apartment in the 1934 block Moore Abbey fetched $1.9 million</a>. The unit that had not been sold in 30 years and attracted five bidders, mainly retirees looking to downsize in a blue-chip location.
Although the bidding stopped at $1.825 million, the vendors dug their heels in and waited for an offer from the highest bidder that matched the last comparable sale in the block of $1.9 million. The first-floor apartment with three bedrooms plus study comprises of 21.5 squares in the tightly held Robert Hamilton-designed building.
The Bangay apartment has had a clever renovation that maximizes the already generous proportions that were the norm during the Art Deco era.
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Landscape designer Paul Bangay selling South Yarra penthouse

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.

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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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362240] 
&nbsp; 
<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> will deliver a mix of waterfront residences and terraces, complemented by a private 36-berth marina, waterfront dining opportunities and a revitalised foreshore designed to reconnect the community with the river's edge. 
&nbsp; 
Abadeen Executive Chairman and Founder Justin Brown said the project represented a rare opportunity to create the next chapter in Sydn​ey's long history of successful waterfront precincts. 
&nbsp; 
"Throughout Sydney, some of the city's most sought-after addresses have emerged from carefully considered waterfront precincts such as Woolloom​ooloo Wharf, Walsh Bay and Breakfast Point," Brown said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362566] 
&nbsp; 
"What makes these places so successful is that they become much more than residential developments," Brown said.

"They bring together homes, hospitality, marina facilities, public spaces and a strong sense of community in locations where future supply is incredibly limited."

Brown has long described absolute waterfront land in Sy​dney as "finite."

"Once these opportunities are developed, they are rarely replicated. That's why Syd​ney's waterfront precincts have consistently demonstrated strong demand and long-term value growth over many decades. 
&nbsp; 
"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> is one of the few remaining opportunities to secure a residence within a masterplanned waterfront community that combines direct water access, marina ownership opportunities and a genuine village lifestyle just moments from the Sy​dney CBD."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362564] 
&nbsp; 
PERIFA Founder and Managing Director Fabrizio Perilli said the project reflected a shared commitment to delivering exceptional places that create long-term value for residents and the broader community. 
&nbsp; 
"The topping out milestone is a significant achievement for the Versatile Group and a testament to the collaboration between all project partners, consultants and contractors involved," Perilli said. 
&nbsp; 
"Beyond the residences themselves, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> will establish a new waterfront destination that celebrates the history, character and lifestyle of this unique location while creating a lasting legacy for future generations."

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&nbsp; 
Construction is being delivered by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/versatile">Versatile Construction</a>, with structural works now substantially complete across the precinct. Attention will progressively shift to the construction of the waterview terraces, apartment façades, services and interior fit-out works over the coming months. 
&nbsp; 
With limited residences and marina berths remaining, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> continues to attract strong interest from owner occupiers and downsizers seeking a premium waterfront lifestyle within close proximity to Putne​y Village, Rh​odes, Top Ry​de and the Syd​ney CBD. 
&nbsp; 
As one of the last opportunities to secure a residence within a new masterplanned waterfront community on Sy​dney Harbour, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> is expected to remain a highly sought-after address for years to come.

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Jonathan Chancellor

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