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GUEST OBSERVATION
No doubt this is one of the toughest federal government budgets we have seen in a long time. It would appear that the Liberal government have been true to their calling and were happy to make sacrifices across the economy in order to balance the books at some point in the future. 
But just how does this budget affect property investors?
Well it’s with relief that no changes have been made to capital gains tax, depreciation or negative gearing. Now, I'm not a fan of negative gearing all that often, the purpose of investing in anything is to achieve good growth and income for the future.
However, I do like the little incentive us property investors are given when it comes to the all to controversial depreciation. Absolutely I'm biased. I benefit from depreciation so I'm not going to argue it shouldn't be in place.
Ultimately, I think it is a great way for the everyday Australian without a business to take advantage of some form of taxation benefit that the big guys get all the time. Currently $6 billion dollars a year is lost in tax revenue due to negative gearing.
However there was one sector in the property industry that got dealt the wooden spoon, and that’s the NRAS scheme. <a href="/expert-insights/finance/is-this-the-end-of-nras-frozen-fifth-round-of-applications">Round 5 of the National Rental Affordability Scheme will be frozen</a> pending a review. In my opinion this is a good move as it was lining the pockets of savvy developers and good property marketers while the everyday investor lined up to buy overpriced property to simply get some money from the government. Now I know there’s a lot more to it than that, however the scheme has been flawed in many ways. 
The property industries push for ASIC regulation of the industry is seemingly unlikely in the near future as large budget cuts to the ASIC budget are handed down forcing large scale job cuts within the organisation. It doesn't look promising that the team at ASIC will want to take on more work with less staff and money. 
Home owners or investors are generally a pretty small deal when it comes to federal budgets. It’s often the state budgets that can make big differences including stamp duty concessions and rates plus the ever tinkering of first home buyers grants. 
Outside of investing, first home buyers taking advantage of the Labor government's First Home Savers Account (FHSA) <a href="/expert-insights/investing/first-home-saver-accounts-scrapped-what-now">will no longer be able to get tax breaks and co-contributions</a> as the scheme will be closed starting 1 July.
I think if anything, this budget should send a reminder to Australians of why investing in assets (not just property) is a necessity to gain financial freedom and retirement when you want it. With the pension age pushed out even further, serious holes in the future funding for pensioners, its clear we need to invest.
JOSH ATHERTON is managing director of <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=123928559&amp;locale=en_US&amp;trk=tyah" target="_blank">Portfolio Property Investments</a>.
You can connect with Josh on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=123928559&amp;locale=en_US&amp;trk=tyah" target="_blank">LinkedIn</a>.
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jatherton-AZUXX8vQA7

How does the budget affect property investors?

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Just this week a property investor contacted me, she wished to discuss our buyers agency service arm of our business. The conversation started with this statement: "I just want someone to tell me where to buy, can you do that."
I had not met this investor before, nor had they had anything to do with our financial planning services. So, initially I went to take the client back a few steps and obtain some more information before I had to tell her, unfortunately, I cannot tell you exactly where to buy with a simple phone call.
If you would like to know where I am personally buying I can give you that; however, none of us have any idea at this point if what I buy, or where I buy, is at all appropriate for you or your strategy.
The client pushed even further and mentioned some competitors who have told her where to buy and was frustrated I too could not give her my opinion. Chances are she was going to make a very large financial decision based on the opinion of the best salesman she talks too.
You see, I rate my sales skills, but there are certainly better salespeople in the industry. I guess this particular client will follow the person that instils the most confidence into her situation.
For too long we have been hearing about unlicenced people providing advice to investors. I get that many people put on the shiny suit and hit the road to convince people that the opportunities they present are the best the market has seen for years, but lets be honest, this is the minority of property buyers that accumulate property this way. Whilst I’m not for it, you have to take a moment to understand why sellers would choose this path to make commissions; there are far too many investors that will trust anyone and make financial decisions from a vulnerable and uneducated position.
I would like to see consumers smarten up a bit, which could change a few aspects of the industry. Financial advice has been strictly governed for years. However, we all too often see businesses take advantage of consumers in many ways; including unrequired insurances, excessive hidden trails on products, SMSFs when they are not suitable for the client, and the list goes on.  
We put too much trust in other people too easily when it comes to investing. Financial literacy is not taught in our educational system and we often rely on anyone that can make us feel good when investing. Thus, it is often the greatest salesman that wins, not the greatest product or service.
The industry plays on fear when people are investing, it's human nature. When we're fighting for our financial future we don’t want to miss out. Our emotions are running wild at this point.
If anyone wants to take investment advice from a real estate agent, I say go for it. It would appear that there might only be one way for that person to become smart at their investing and that’s by learning the hard way. If a silly person is going to ask for advice from someone who isn’t even clearly qualified to give it, they’re going to get the answer they deserve, full of nonsense.
Josh Atherton is managing director of <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=123928559&amp;locale=en_US&amp;trk=tyah" target="_blank">Portfolio Property Investments</a>.
You can connect with Josh on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=123928559&amp;locale=en_US&amp;trk=tyah" target="_blank">LinkedIn</a>.
          
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Property advice regulation - What we really need is smarter investors: Josh Atherton

As <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/elevaire-palm-beach-1409-1411-gold-coast-highway-palm-beach-qld-4221">Elevaire Palm Beach</a> moves swiftly toward completion, the final two- and three-bedroom residences offer a rare chance to secure a North Palm Beach home just moments from the shoreline.

Developed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/evoke-property-group">Evoke Property Group</a>, Elevaire is more than just apartments facing the beach on the east side of the main drag; the units are sanctuaries designed to echo the rhythms of the coast.

“Elevaire is inspired by the glistening ocean waves and the rolling sand dunes,"&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cottee-parker-architects">Cottee Parker</a>&nbsp;Director&nbsp;Sandra Browne says.

"The interior palette is subtle and inviting, understated in its connection to the surroundings.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112941 project_image_fid=216014]

Located only 50 metres from the beach, each residence is carefully oriented to enhance its connection with the surrounding landscape. Full-height glazing opens onto expansive balconies, drawing sunlight deep into the open-plan interiors.

Kitchens are appointed with premium Smeg appliances, porcelain &nbsp;stone benchtops, and bespoke joinery, while engineered herringbone timber flooring and ducted air-conditioning ensure durability and comfort year-round.

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Each layout, whether two or three bedrooms, has been planned with generous proportions and adaptable living in mind. The three-bedroom apartments extend this with dedicated butler's pantries and generous balconies offering panoramic views over Tallebudgera and North Palm Beach.

Beyond individual residences, Elevaire's amenity suite reinforces its lifestyle promise. A wellness-focused ground level includes hot and cold magnesium pools, sauna, sun deck, outdoor shower and entertaining areas with BBQ and dining facilities, ensuring the development supports both rest and social connections.

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Builder 5POINT is expecting a February completion of Elevaire, with buyers moving in shortly after.

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Staff Writer

Inside the final apartments at Elevaire Palm Beach

The introduction of a new apartment style by Sekisui House Australia at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/zeste-at-the-orchards-norwest-104-fairway-drive-norwest-nsw-2153">Zeste</a>, the final stage of its $1 billion Norwest masterplan The Orchards, has fuelled buyer demand, particularly from the local downsizer.

The new product&nbsp;offering, Breezeway Sky Homes, accounted for 40 per cent of the 25 sales achieved at the launch of Zeste's first building, Essence, which makes up 135 of the 209 apartments in Zeste. Around 90 per cent of purchasers were local owner-occupiers.

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David Lee, Sales Manager at Sekisui House Australia, said the new Breezeway Sky Homes had proven the standout performer.

“These residences introduce cross ventilation, north south orientation, butler’s pantries and private courtyard entries that make apartment living feel like a genuine home," Lee says.

“Purchasers are choosing Norwest over other suburbs such as Hills Showground, Tallawong and Macquarie Park due to the limited supply. Zeste is also the final stage of The Orchards masterplan, where all community amenities will be fully completed, making it a functioning neighbourhood from day one.”

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Lee noted that while the expanded federal government’s Home Guarantee Scheme had encouraged more first home buyers to enquire, the majority of purchasers were local homeowners taking advantage of the final opportunity to secure an address within The Orchards.

“Zeste represents the culmination of Sekisui House Australia’s decade long vision for The Orchards, creating a neighbourhood defined by community, sustainability and design excellence. With Zeste, that vision comes full circle."

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Designed by Rothelowman, each residence integrates natural light and greenery, reflecting Sekisui House’s global philosophy of creating harmony between people, homes and nature.

“Zeste’s apartments are on average 20 per cent larger than previous stages, with generous internal areas tailored for owner occupiers,"&nbsp;Lee added.

"Buyers have also responded positively to the premium upgrade options and the project’s independent 4 Gold Star iCIRT rating, which reinforces confidence in quality and delivery."

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Castle Hill retirees Aswin and Dilu purchased a three-bedroom Breezeway Sky Home in Zeste.

“We have lived in the Castle Hill area for over 15 years in a large five-bedroom home and wanted something smaller but not too small," Ashwin said.

"The moment we walked into the showroom and saw the vision for Zeste we were sold. Our apartment is over 200 square metres so there is plenty of space. The layout, light timber finishes, Japanese craftmanship, balcony overlooking a landscaped courtyard and concierge were standout features. Proximity to friends, shops, restaurants, Sydney Olympic Park, walk and cycle paths and the new Metro made out decision very easy."

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Sales so far have ranged from $735,000 to $2.2 million, with purchasers responding to the combination of large floorplans, refined finishes, and access to resort-style amenity within the masterplanned community.

Construction of Zeste will commence in early 2026, with completion anticipated in early 2028.&nbsp;

To date, more than 860 apartments have been sold across The Orchards, equating to over 65 per cent of the entire masterplan, marking the end of an era for The Orchards, an innovative project 10 years in the making.

Set on a nature site with a creek and cycle/walkways, The Orchards will feature recreational amenities including a 1.4-hectare public park, an outdoor cinema, onsite café, playgrounds, break-out green spaces, lagoon pool and large fitness centre.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150510]

Joel Robinson

Local owner-occupiers drive sales at Zeste, Norwest

Within a few weeks of unveiling its newest Sydney apartment development The Rushcutters, developer Third.i, and joint venture partner NPACT, have sold out all of the two-bedroom apartments in the boutique building.

Over 200 guests attended an exclusive VIP evening, followed by a bustling weekend at the display suite in Potts Point. More than 50 groups toured the suite, resulting in multiple deposits.

Two-bedroom apartments have sold out, and the remaining three-bedroom residences are available from $4.95 million.

The Rubinstein Group’s James Nixon and Christian Jones are the local agents appointed to sell <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-rushcutters-51-57-bayswater-road-rushcutters-bay-nsw-2011">The Rushcutters</a>, alongside Hume Residential. JLL’s Freya Watson, Harri Williams-Jones and Patrick Yi are the listed international agent for The Rushcutters.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144646 project_image_fid=354308]

The Rushcutters is redefining luxury apartment living by offering the unique opportunity to combine two apartments into a single, expansive whole-floor residence. This delivers the ultimate in harbourside luxury, with generous living spaces, curated finishes, and seamless indoor-outdoor flow. Due to strict planning controls, only one level is available for amalgamation, making it a truly one-off chance for those seeking an inner-city, house-sized apartment.

Luke Berry, Director and Co-founder of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/thirdi-group">Thirdi Group</a>, said the feedback from buyers has been "overwhelmingly positive", with many drawn to the flexibility and lifestyle that whole-floor living provides

“We’ve always believed there was a real appetite for large, luxury apartments in this part of Sydney, but the response to The Rushcutters has been incredible," Berry said.

“People are looking for something special space, quality, and a sense of home, all in a location that’s second to none. We’re proud to offer a project that delivers on all fronts."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144646 project_image_fid=351899]

Designed by renowned architects <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a>, The Rushcutters blends contemporary elegance with timeless materials.

Each residence features expansive living areas, floor-to-ceiling glazing, and high-end finishes that reflect a commitment to quality and detail. Residents will also enjoy secure parking, private outdoor terraces, and seamless connectivity to Sydney’s CBD, parks, and waterfront.

The project’s location in Rushcutters Bay places it within easy reach of the city’s best dining, shopping, and recreational amenities, but is far enough removed to not be in the heart of the urban bustle.

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Buyers jump at The Rushcutters launch

Capital Corporation has officially broken ground on its landmark residential project, The Residences at Wahroonga Estate.

The milestone marks the beginning of a joint venture with the Seventh-day Adventist Church, delivered in partnership with award-winning builder DASCO. Together with interior design by Coco Republic and architecture by GroupGSA, the partnership will transform an underutilized block of land into a vibrant new residential community.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135247 project_image_fid=284381]

Capital Corporation Managing Director Jim Hunter said&nbsp;DASCO’s reputation and capability made them the standout choice for this key project.

"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-residences-at-wahroonga-estate-169-fox-valley-road-wahroonga-nsw-2076">The Residences at&nbsp;Wahroonga&nbsp;Estate</a> will be a luxury landmark development for&nbsp;Sydney’s Upper North Shore, and we’re confident&nbsp;DASCO&nbsp;will help bring it to life with integrity and the highest standards of workmanship.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135247 project_image_fid=262185]

With around 55 per cent of the initial release already sold, valued at approximately $100 million, the development is being hailed as a key catalyst in the renaissance of Sydney’s Upper North Shore residential market.

Capital Corporation’s decision to position The Residences at Wahroonga Estate next to Sydney Adventist Hospital (the San), one of the most respected and significant private hospitals in Sydney, is resonating strongly with buyers who value convenient access to healthcare and lifestyle amenity.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135247 project_image_fid=284380]

Sydney Adventist Hospital CEO Brett Goods said the development reflects the hospital’s long-standing commitment to community wellbeing.

“The San has been part of the Wahroonga community for more than 120 years, providing care for generations of families. The Residences at Wahroonga Estate continues our vision of providing world class healthcare and promoting wellness, connection and peace of mind for residents and patients alike,” said Goods.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135247 project_image_fid=284379]

New research commissioned by Capital Corporation into Australian downsizing motivations underscores the growing influence of health and wellbeing on property decisions.

The study found that around one in three Australians (35%) are downsizing due to health- related reasons and want to live closer to medical facilities.

It also revealed that nearly two-thirds (64%) of downsizers seek apartments near general amenities, while a third (33%) specifically value close access to health and wellbeing features when choosing where to live.

Hunter said the findings explained the success of The Residences at Wahroonga Estate, where the combination of premium design, convenience and direct access to Sydney’s leading private hospital has proven to be a major drawcard.

The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by NSW Building Commissioner James Sherrard, the Seventh-day Adventist Church, DASCO and key stakeholders, reflecting Capital Corporation’s enduring reputation as a trusted joint venture partner and leader in quality, community-driven development.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135247 project_image_fid=284382]

Francois Keet, CFO of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in the South Pacific said they chose to partner with Capital Corporation because of their proven experience in delivering community-focused developments.

“They’ve helped unlock value in the Estate, allowing us to reinvest in what matters — healthcare training, senior care, key worker housing and other vital local initiatives.

“This partnership is about more than development; it’s about futureproofing our mission and creating lasting social impact for the community we serve.”

&nbsp;

The Residences at Wahroonga Estate is set to complete in 2027 and will offer 128 one, two and three-bedroom, pet-friendly apartments immersed in nature.

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Capital Corporation breaks ground on The Residences at Wahroonga Estate

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/edge-visionary-living">Edge Visionary Living</a> has completed&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/broadway-on-the-bay-crawley-168-broadway-crawley-wa-6009">Broadway on the Bay</a> in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/crawley-wa-6009">Crawley</a>, a boutique riverfront development delivered by Edge's in-house construction team.

Over 80 per cent of the 21 apartments, positioned along the Swan River foreshore and parkland, have already been sold prior to completion.

The development draws on the site’s natural setting and the surrounding Art Deco character of Crawley. The design incorporates light-toned brickwork, sculpted curves, and bronze accents at &nbsp;street level, complemented by full-height glazing and moveable screening above.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138456 project_image_fid=354363]

Each residence has been optimised to capture river and parkland views. Interiors feature natural materials &nbsp;such as stone, timber and bronze detailing, with the inclusion of high-quality finishes throughout.&nbsp;

The residents’ amenities focus on wellbeing and connection. Landscaped gardens, a yoga space, gymnasium and Western Red Cedar–lined sauna provide residents with a balance of recreation and relaxation, while shared lounges, a wine room and private dining area supports social engagement.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138456 project_image_fid=354361]

The remaining apartments are predominantly three-bedroom layouts, priced from $3.8 million.&nbsp;The development has attracted buyers from Perth’s western suburbs seeking to downsize without compromise, as well as professionals and long-term locals drawn to the riverfront setting.&nbsp;

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/wa/how-edge-visionary-living-navigated-the-pandemic-and-came-out-stronger-five-minutes-with-gavin-hawkins">How EDGE Visionary Living navigated the pandemic, and came out stronger: Five minutes with Gavin Hawkins</a>

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=138456]

Josh Atherton

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