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A clifftop house with a unique design of three wedges has been listed for sale in the coastal town of <a target="_blank" href="/news">San Remo</a>, Victoria.
Linda Richardson – a retired company director – has listed her five-bedroom, four-bathroom home with an asking price of $5.5 million. 
Perched above the cliffs on the Anderson Peninsula on an 8.57-hectare block, the 1990 house was designed by <a target="_blank" href="https://www.smrekararchitects.com.au/index.php?option=com_content&amp;view=article&amp;id=4&amp;Itemid=6">architect Ermin Smrekar</a>.
The property boasts 360-degree views of Bass Strait, Cape Woolamai and Kilcunda.
One of the five bedrooms is a loft and is reached via a ship’s ladder.
<img height="216" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/01/sanremo1.jpg" alt="sanremo1">
Other features of the property include high ceilings, four fireplaces and a potbelly stove in the main lounge room.
The property also boasts a north facing swimming pool and spa.
Located on Punchbowl Road, the home has been listed by Matt Davis from <a target="_blank" href="https://www.kayburton.com.au/property/135-punchbowl-road-san-remo">Kay &amp; Burton</a> in conjunction with South Coast First National Real Estate agent Russell Wilson.
Among architect Ermin Smrekar's other works since migrating from Trieste, Italy, was an elegant early 1980s house on North Road, <a target="_blank" href="/news">Brighton</a>.
Linda Richardson was a director of Carrol and Richardson, the textile and flag manufacturers.
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Ermin Smrekar-designed San Remo clifftop listing

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The $400 million Hamilton Reach development by Australand has successfully sold four terrace homes in the second stage of the Green Quarter precinct.
Construction of the first 12 Green Quarter terrace homes is now complete with $11.5 million secured in sales after its late 2011 launch.
<img height="378" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/01/greenquarter.jpg" alt="greenquarter">
The two-storey Green Quarter homes had been "hugely popular", says Richard Fulcher, general manager of Queensland residential Australand.
<img height="374" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/01/greenquarter2.jpg" alt="greenquarter2">
The second and final stage of the Green Quarter precinct was released last October with 10 townhouses, ranging in size from 241 square metres to 283 square metres and priced from $980,000 to $1.475 million. With four already sold the remaining six offerings are priced from $980,000 to $1.15 million.
The Hamilton Reach development is located six kilometres from the Brisbane CBD in north shore <a target="_blank" href="/news">Hamilton </a>and is bordered by 530 metres of river frontage and 2.5 hectares of Northshore Riverside Park.
<img height="204" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/01/greenquarter1.jpg" alt="greenquarter1">
The Green Quarter precinct is located one street from the river.
Homes within the precinct endeavour to promote environmentally friendly living – with solar panels and solar hot water to reduce energy and water consumption.
The terrace homes, designed by Rothe Lowman White architects, also boast internal courtyards, high-level windows and private terraces.
“We are happy to see people embracing the concept of environmentally sustainable living, which is becoming increasingly important to buyers as they become more conscious about energy consumption and reducing their carbon footprint,” says Fulcher.
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Australand secures four further sales in Green Quarter precinct at Hamilton Reach 

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The Western Australian property market is expected to steadily improve in the coming six months, due to consumer confidence and better buying conditions, according to the Western Australian property market outlook by First National.
“Our members are looking forward to 2013 where the market is expected to build on the momentum already seen over the last six months of 2012,” says Cambell Giles, state chair and principal of First National Real Estate Giles Jones in Midland.
Perth, Peel and the south west are already experiencing a rising market in the back end of 2012 and this is expected to strengthen further in 2013.
Activity sales are expected to increase in the first half of 2013, resulting in the average number of days a property is on the market to fall.
Giles says the Port Hedland and the Newman property markets remain strong and are attractive to investors and owner-occupiers.
“Despite negative media reports, towns like <a href="https://maps.google.com/maps?ll=-20.31,118.601&amp;spn=0.1,0.1&amp;q=-20.31,118.601%20(Port%20Hedland%2C%20Western%20Australia)&amp;t=h">Port Hedland</a> and Newman will see the property market remain strong, with the region more sensitive to factors affecting the Chinese rather than the Australian economy,” says Giles.
“Early indicators show demand for resources is ramping up and iron ore prices will stabilise by mid next year, seeing confidence in this sector returned to early 2012 levels.”
However, local agents believe the Pilbara region will still dominate the property market in 2013.
Property prices are expected to gradually improve in the coming 12 to 18 months, especially where the mining and resources sector remain strong.
“The steadily improving market conditions are expected to translate into a gradual improvement in property prices with house prices, specifically <a href="https://maps.google.com/maps?ll=-31.9522222222,115.858888889&amp;spn=0.1,0.1&amp;q=-31.9522222222,115.858888889%20(Perth%2C%20Western%20Australia)&amp;t=h">Perth</a>, expected to rise,” says Giles.
On the investment side, apartment and strata property prices are expected to remain at current levels due to a steady ongoing supply, with any increase being the result of strong demand.
Investor activity is expected to increase as a result of improving rental yields and returns, but first homebuyers are expected to represent the strongest growth sector in the state.
Areas that are cheaper to buy in rather than rent include Burswood, Perth, Ascot, Girrawheen, West Perth, Ledge Point, South Hedland and Nickol.
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Pilbara still to dominate as First National's WA agents see confidence return

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Former St Kilda football player turned property developer Max Hudghton and his wife, Anya, have listed their fully renovated <a target="_blank" href="https://www.kayburton.com.au/property/33-gordon-street-hampton">Hampton home</a> with $4 million-plus hopes.
Located on Gordan Street, the four-bedroom, two-bathroom home sits on 1,902 square metres of land.
The house boasts travertine flooring, and the kitchen has marble bench tops and miele appliances.
A floodlit mod grass tennis court is on the block.
The property has been listed by Ian Jackson from Kay and Burton Brighton.
Hudghton's construction company built the Brighton townhouse that soccer champion Harry Kewell leased as his Melbourne base.
The Nicholas Day-designed property was built by Maxton Constructions for a development syndicate headed by the former St Kilda champion Fraser Gehrig.
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Former St Kilda player Max Hudghton lists home for $4 million plus

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The most expensive auction in Queensland last week was a newly completed four-bedroom home in Broadbeach Waters, which fetched $1.55 million.
Located at 14 Eady Avenue, the 45-square-metre home boasts four bathrooms and a waterside pool and spa.
It sold last week through Nick Jamieson at Dytor and Yates Broadbeach Waters.
The owners bought the property in early 2012 for $870,000 when it contained a home with serious structural issues.
Due to one part of the house sinking, the original home was knocked over and the current one was built.
The property had previously sold in 2008 for $1.42 million, before the GFC hit.
The median house price in Broadbeach Waters is $669,500, according to RP Data.
The top 10 auctions for the week, preceed the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/news/graham-spottiswood-s-alston-at-southport-sells-for-%2498-million/2013012858997">big auctions of the weekend</a> where prices of up to $9.8 million were achieved on the Gold Coast.
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property-overview/14_eady_avenue_broadbeach_waters_qld_4218/3332825">14 Eady Avenue, Broadbeach Waters, QLD, 4218</a>, four-bedroom house, sold on January 24 by Dytor &amp; Yates Broadbeach Waters for $1.55 million
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property-overview/7_mermaid_quay_noosaville_qld_4566/6499554">7 Mermaid Quay, Noosa Waters, QLD, 4566</a>, five-bedroom house, sold at auction on January 26 by Laguna Coolum Real Estate for $1.5 million
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property-overview/1a_werona_street_pennant_hills_nsw_2120/5415438">1A Werona Street, Pennant Hills, NSW, 2120</a>, five-bedroom house, sold on January 23 by Laing + Simmons Pennant Hills for $1.1 million
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property-overview/111_bradford_street_coolbinia_wa_6050/11927684">111 Bradford Street, Coolbinia, WA, 6050</a>, four-bedroom house, sold on January 24 by Rich Estate Mount Lawley for $1.075 million
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property-overview/215_jerrara_road_jerrara_nsw_2533/3138923">215 Jerrara Road, Jerrara, NSW, 2533</a>, six-bedroom house, sold on January 23 by McGrath Kiama for $950,000
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property-overview/34c_princes_road_torrens_park_sa_5062/10585039">34C Princes Road, Torrens Park, SA, 5062</a>, three-bedroom house, sold on January 24 by Murray Hill Real Estate Torrens Park for $885,000
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property-overview/2/4_edgecumbe_avenue_coogee_nsw_2034/1929679">2/4 Edgecumbe Avenue, Coogee, NSW, 2034</a>, two-bedroom unit, sold on January 22 by McGrath Coogee for $860,001
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property-overview/18_hill_street_spring_hill_qld_4000/7502362">18 Hill Street, Spring Hill, QLD, 4000</a>, three-bedroom house, sold on January 22 by Century 21 Vision iSOLD Brisbane for $800,000
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property-overview/14_longview_crescent_stanwell_tops_nsw_2508/6463402">14 Longview Crescent, Stanwell Tops, NSW, 2508</a>, five-bedroom house, sold on January 24 by Ray White Helensburgh for $780,000
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property-overview/2/35_the_boulevarde_cammeray_nsw_2062/1695156">2/35 The Boulevarde, Cammeray, NSW, 2062</a>, two-bedroom unit, sold on January 23 by Justin Ferguson Property Specialists Cammeray for $770,000
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New home at Broadbeach Waters tops RP Data top 10 sales

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The tallest residential tower in western Sydney – at 30 storeys high – is to be known as One Australia Avenue and is located in Sydney Olympic Park.
<img height="313" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/01/oneaust.jpg" alt="oneaust">
The elliptical glass-walled building will have bronze-coloured bands wrapped around its façade and will be surrounded by 430-hecatres of parklands.

One Australia Avenue is the third and final building in the Australia Tower trilogy, jointly developed by Ecove and SOPA.

It will boast a sky-high roof garden and a podium on street level will contain a gymnasium and 16 retail and commercial spaces.

The low-rise podium will link between Ecove and SOPA’s <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/developments/about-40-of-olympic-park-s-atii-tower-sold-soon-after-marketing-starting-gun-sounds/2012050254525">Australia Tower II</a> and One Australia Avenue.
<img height="282" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/01/oneaust2.jpg" alt="oneaust2">
One Australia Avenue will also have deep slots cut into the tower to maximise natural light.

It will comprise of 300 apartments – ranging from one to four bedrooms – with four colour schemes for buyers to choose from.

The apartments will boast a designer stone kitchen and full height glass doors that open onto the balcony.

One-bedroom apartments range from $480,000 to $690,000 and range in size from 52 square metres to 65 square metres.

Two-bedroom apartments range from $575,000 to $845,000 and range in size from 70 square metres to 95 square metres.
<img height="312" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/01/oneaust3.jpg" alt="oneaust3">
Three-bedroom apartments range from $795,000 to $1,435,000 and range in size from 104 square metres to 135 square metres.

Four-bedroom apartments range from $960,000 to $2.6 million and range in size from 133 square metres to 166 square metres.

The first tower in the Australia Tower Trilogy was completed in early 2012 and consisted of 216 apartments.

The second tower, ATII is scheduled for completion in late 2014 and will boast 267 apartments.
Australia Towers and ATII are each 25 storeys. 
One Australia Avenue will be 120 metres above sea level – about 106 metres of actual building height.
Construction has commenced on Australia One Avenue with a scheduled completion in mid-2015.

“It is a great place to work and live, so demand for accommodation continues to be strong as Sydney Olympic Park evolves into a major suburb,” says David Chittenden, General Manager of Residential Colliers International.
“In most parts of the world you have to travel far to enjoy such recreational entertainment and sporting facilities, but at One Australia Avenue they are on your doorstep,” says Chittenden.

Ecove estimates that strata levies will be low – due to the sport and recreational facilities offered in Sydney Olympic Park - estimating them to be $600 to $750 for a one-bedroom, $800 to $1,000 for a two-bedroom, and $1,200 to $1,500 for a three of four-bedroom apartment, per quarter..

Sydney Olympic Park hosts the majority of Sydney’s major sporting, entertainment and corporate events.
 
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The tallest residential tower in western Sydney - One Australia Avenue

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 Engelo Rumora – a 24-year-old property flipper – has left the lucky country to try his luck in the United States property market.
Rumora has a knack for finding undervalued assets that, after major or minor renovation, can be rented for a positive cash flow outcome.
Property Observer <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/renovating/australia-s-cheapest-reno-house-resells-at-%2474500-%E2%80%93-five-months-after-its-%2415000-purchase/2012112658104">reported</a> on a repeatedly graffitied, vandalised, run-down Moree, NSW fibro that Rumora purchased for $15,000 in June last year.
Five months later he sold it for $74,500 – a $40,000 profit.
Rumora and his team of investors have so far purchased 11 properties in Kansas City, Missouri, in the last three months and have re-sold eight, although none of the re-sale prices have yet to be revealed by Rumora or price websites like zillow.com.
They are closing on another three house in the coming weeks, he told Property Observer this week.
Rumora bought a two-bedroom, one-bathroom house at 5720 Brooklyn Avenue Kansas City, Missouri (pictured below).<img alt="kansas1" width="450" height="338" src="/images/stories/2013/01/kansas1.jpg" style="font-size: 0.8em;">
According to Zillow, it sold in 2008 for $65,000 (all prices in US dollars).
In 2012, it sold at a foreclosure auction for around $8,000 and is currently estimated to be worth over $32,000.
Rumora and his team also purchased a two-bedroom, one-bathroom home located at 6115 South Benton Avenue, Kansas City, Missouri in October last year.
It was listed for $25,000 in 2011, but currently has an estimated value of $34,248.
The team and Rumora gave the house a two-tone exterior paint job, installed hardwood floors, steam cleaned the carpets and painted the walls and ceilings – in a 10-day period.
They have secured a tenant for $500 per month.
The team also bought a three-bedroom, two-bathroom home on 6630 Park Avenue for $11,402 and started renovations in October.
They repainted the interiors, replaced the carpet with polished floorboards, fixed plumping issues and installed kitchen cabinets.
This property will also be rented out for $500 per month.
A two-bedroom, one-bathroom single-family home on 6922 College Avenue was purchased in October last year for $8,125.
It had previously sold in 2004 for $55,962.
The team started the makeover in late October with an internal paint job, plumbing work and electrical work.
The team are hoping for a monthly rental income of $575 to $600.
According to Zillow, it is currently estimated to be worth over $38,000.
The team also bought and revamped a two-bedroom home at 6630 College Avenue that was purchased for $14,500.
They gave the house an internal and external paint job and installed a new furnace.
It is currently tenanted for $500 per month and according to Zillow, is estimated to be valued at $17,867.
Rumora also closed on a property at 5643 Euclid Avenue, Kansas City (pictured below).
<img alt="kansas2" width="450" height="338" src="/images/stories/2013/01/kansas2.jpg">
The two-bedroom, one-bathroom home was listed for sale last year with offers of $5,500.
Zillow currently estimates it to be worth over $31,000.
“Most investors I speak to always ask me about what area is good, and I would always tell them that the area is only 5% of what it takes to succeed when buying US property,” says Rumora.
“Until you find the right team, don’t invest.”
“It might take years to establish these connections but it will be worth it in the end. Good things take time. Too many people are losing money because they jump into an investment too quickly and over commit too much funds,” he says.
Rumora says capital growth is only a prediction, and to only buy if the numbers in that particular deal make sense.
Rumora also owns a five-bedroom home in Rochester, New York, which he purchased for $41,000 in 2011.
It is currently rented at $900 a month and has a rental yield of 26%.
Rumora’s top tips include investing to suit your end goal and to immerse yourself with property.
“Have smarter people around you, doing the things you can’t,” Rumora says.
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Property flipping wizard Engelo Rumora not in Australia  anymore as he tries Kansas City

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 As Australia Day is all about celebrating, many will do so in a picturesque alfresco pavilion or deep into the back garden of one's own home.

From separate kitchens to mega barbecues, Property Observer looks at the many different places where you can celebrate next year if you are in the market for a new property.

Located on <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-point+leo-107582313" target="_blank">Frankston Flinders Road, Point Leo</a> Victoria, this three-bedroom limestone and timber residence offers a Tuscan-inspired alfresco courtyard and outdoor kitchen (pictured below).
<img src="/images/stories/2013/01/ptleo.jpg" height="314" width="470" alt="ptleo">
While you sit back and eat lunch, you can bask in the views across Western Port Bay to Phillip Island and The Nobbies.

After lunch, you can wander through the 10 hectares of property or hit the ball on the tennis court.

Further down the bay is the four-bedroom, five-bath <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-portsea-112328231" target="_blank">Dreamweaver property</a> (pictured below), located on Cheviot Road, <a href="/news">Portsea</a>.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/01/chevriot1.jpg" height="353" width="470" alt="chevriot1">
You can start Australia Day in the undercover breakfast teppanyaki area on the east side, which captures the morning sun.

With a 20-metre heated lap pool and spa, you can work up an appetite for lunch before settling into the designer cabana with a full Corian outdoor kitchen, including a barbecue, dishwasher, rangehood and bathroom.

You are spoilt for choice with activities including a tennis court, an Olympic sized in-ground trampoline and a home theatre.

Or sit above the tennis court on the deck chairs and enjoy the views across Portsea and the bay.

<a href="https://www.rs.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-rythdale-112448459" target="_blank">The Dale</a> is located on McGregor Road <a href="/news">Rythdale, </a>Victoria, and comprises of two residences on a 52-hectare block.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/01/rythdale.jpg" height="295" width="470" alt="rythdale">
This property boasts an outdoor entertaining area with a covered, paved patio (pictured above) and a built-in gas barbecue.

As the day fades, you can unwind in the home cinema or pop into the red gum wet bar in the family room for a drink.
 
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
 
A <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-st+kilda-112604455" target="_blank">St Kilda penthouse</a> located on The Esplanade has <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/victoria/st-kilda-penthouse-with-luna-park-views-fishing-for-new-%24225-million-owner/2012121358466" target="_blank">previously caught Property Observer’s eye</a>, but what better way to spend Australia Day than on your own private rooftop?
<img src="/images/stories/2013/01/luna3.jpg" height="353" width="470" alt="luna3">
The rooftop alfresco entertaining area (pictured above) has a built-in barbecue and full guest bathrooms.

Offering views over St Kilda and the iconic Luna Park, this rooftop would be suited to the city-lover who loves bright lights and the faint noise of a distant rollercoaster.

The two-bedroom, three-bathroom penthouse is currently listed with an asking price of $2.25 million.

This <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-brighton-112679927" target="_blank">five-bedroom home</a> (pictured below) is located on Victoria Street in the popular Melbourne bayside suburb of <a href="/news">Brighton</a>.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/01/vicst.jpg" height="353" width="470" alt="vicst">
It boasts an outdoor barbecue area with a separate temperature-controlled wine storeroom.

After lunch, you can dip into the 20-metre heated pool and spa or relax in the living room – which has sliding glass walls that open out to Japanese-inspired gardens.

Last but not least, this home (pictured below) is located on a 4,051-square-metre block on <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-terranora-112685815" target="_blank">Winchelsea Way Terranora NSW.</a>
<img src="/images/stories/2013/01/terranora.jpg" height="353" width="470" alt="terranora">
The four-bedroom home has a detached alfresco dining area, complete with a kitchen and built-in barbecue and teppanyaki grill.

While sitting in the dining area you can overlook the in-ground saltwater pool, and if you overdo the food and drinks there’s a lift to take you up and down between floors.

Property Observer previously reported on the Brisbane listing of rugby league sportsman <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/queensland/darren-lockyer-s-brisbane-house-for-sale-in-tough-selling-season/2011072850958">Darren Lockyer’s property</a>.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/01/lockyerbbq.jpg" height="225" width="400" alt="lockyerbbq">
It came with a large in-built barbecue (pictured below), big enough to befit any Queenslander sportsman.
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Snag a hot barbecue for Australia Day: Properties with casual outdoor dining spaces

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 The rare opportunity to purchase land on a golf course has arisen in Byron Bay, with an asking price over $1 million.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/01/broken.jpg" width="470" height="313" alt="broken">
Located on Broken Head Road, the north-western corner of the 18-hole course comes with approval for a three-lot subdivision.

<img src="/images/stories/2013/01/broken2.jpg" width="470" alt="broken">
To entice potential buyers, the successful purchaser will receive a one year free club membership valued at $850.

<img src="/images/stories/2013/01/broken3.jpg" width="470" alt="broken">
The 2.35-hectare property – to be sold as one lot – will also come with a buggy track to the land.

<img src="/images/stories/2013/01/broken4.jpg" width="470" alt="broken">
Located five kilometres south of the CBD, the<a href="/news"> Byron Bay</a> golf course is situated opposite The Byron at Byron Resort and Spa.

“How many other blocks of this size with privacy do you know of on a golf course, 500 metres to the beach and only minutes from town?” says the secretary manager of the club, Peter Swaby.

The land went to market late November and is being sold by <a target="_blank" href="https://www.byronbaypropertysales.com.au/index.cfm?pagecall=property&amp;propertyID=2244896&amp;realestate=62_Broken_Head_Road_BYRON_BAY_NSW_2481">Jeremy Bennett from Byron Bay Property Sales.</a>

Offers close February 18.
 
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Rare opportunity to purchase Byron Bay golf course land

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 The scaffolding at Darlinghurt’s newest residential development – Dominion – is starting to come down to reveal the structure.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/01/dominion3.jpg" width="470" height="313" alt="dominion3">
While construction has been underway since early 2011, some 80% of the apartments have sold totalling around $100 million.
Dominion – developed by Cbus Property - will consist of 108 apartments split across three buildings, each seven levels high.

The triangular 4,537-square-metre <a href="/news">Darlinghurst </a>site was previously home to the Caritas health care facility for 140 years.
<img alt="dominionnew" height="388" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/01/dominionnew.jpg">
It is surrounded by Forbes, Burton and Bourke Streets and sits opposite the Darlinghurst Goal, now home to the National Arts School.

The heritage elements of the former site have been restored and reused, including an internal courtyard.

Designed by Group GSA architects, the development will boast sandstone walls, grand gates and palisade iron fencing.

“Dominion is in a culturally significant heritage precinct so we are using traditional, precious materials – but in a progressive way,” says Mark Percy, executive manager of Cbus Property.

Work started on the development in early 2011 and is scheduled for a May 2013 completion date.

Colliers International says the location has been a major selling feature.

“We’re not surprised by the breadth of enquiry for Dominion,” says David Chittenden, director of residential projects at NSW Colliers International.

“Darlinghurst is a popular and cosmopolitan suburb attracting residents through its exciting and convenient lifestyle, cutting-edge fashion boutiques, restaurants, concept stores and sporting and recreational facilities.”

Some 25 apartments out of the 108 are still available and range from two-bedroom to three-bedroom.

The two-bedroom apartments start from $1.2 million and range from 85 square metres to 135 square metres and contain an eight-square-metre balcony.

The three-bedroom apartments start from $1.79 million and range in size from 120 squares metres to 203 square metres and offer balconies from 20 square metres to 60 squares metres.

Colliers International says many of the purchasers have come from the eastern suburbs and the north shore and around 15% of buyers have been from overseas, including several expats.
The $150 million 4,500-square-metre mixed-use development was being developed jointly by St Hilliers and Cbus Property.
When St Hilliers was under financial pressure in mid-2012 it sold out its 50% interests in the Dominion project to its joint venture partner Cbus Property. Cbus Property is now the sole developer/financier/owner.
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Darlinghurst's newest residential development Dominion revealed

For most new apartment buildings, the Owners Corporation starts life with little more than a bank account and the first quarterly strata levies.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/9-gay-street-castle-hill-9-gay-street-castle-hill-nsw-2154">9 Gay Street</a> in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/castle-hill-nsw-2154">Castle Hill</a>, it starts with around $7 million in reserve.

It's an unusual legacy of what was once one of Sydney's highest-profile apartment remediation projects. When the development, originally known as Skyview and built by disgraced developer Top Place, came under scrutiny by then NSW Building Commissioner David Chandler, an $11 million remediation bond was negotiated to ensure any building defects could be fully rectified.

The building underwent an 18-month remediation program, during which around $4 million of that bond was spent bringing the building up to the standard it should have been in from the outset.

After extensive inspections, all active rectification orders have been lifted. What's more, around $7.2 million remains secured for the Owners Corporation for the next 15 years.

In a twist few would have predicted, what began as a significant concern for purchasers has left the building with something almost unheard of in the apartment market: a multi-million-dollar financial reserve from day one.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147685 project_image_fid=359136]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Equitifund</a> Executive Chairman Greg Huxley said the structure offers buyers a level of certainty that is difficult to replicate.

"The $11 million bond established for the Skyview Castle Hill development represents exceptional value, providing genuine financial security for purchasers," Huxley said.

"Unlike a standard insurance policy, this bond consists of real funds held in trust for the Owners Corporation, offering a tangible layer of protection and added peace of mind."

The apartments themselves have been designed with a focus on practical, contemporary living. Interiors feature Smeg appliances, stone benchtops, tiled living areas, carpeted bedrooms, 2.7-metre ceilings, floor-to-ceiling glazing, and ducted heating and cooling throughout.

Residents also have access to a range of shared amenities, including two rooftop barbecue areas, a swimming pool, children's playgrounds, secure building access, storage cages, and visitor parking.

The location continues to be one of the project's strongest drawcards. Castle Hill Metro Station sits virtually on the doorstep, providing direct connections across Sydney's expanding Metro network, while Castle Towers offers extensive retail, dining, entertainment, and service amenities within walking distance.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147685 project_image_fid=359127]

The building, now named after its location at 9 Gay Street, comprises a diverse mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments starting from just under $600,000.

Equitifund National Sales Director Ben Hamblett said demand in the Hills District continues to be driven by buyers seeking convenience and connectivity.

"Interest from both owner-occupiers and investors in Castle Hill remains exceptionally strong, with buyers consistently prioritising developments in close proximity to the Metro station and Castle Towers Shopping Centre," Hamblett said.

"There is a clear trend in the market, with purchasers seeking convenient access to transport and lifestyle amenities that support a seamless, low-maintenance way of living."

On top of the long-term protection afforded by the remaining $7.2 million bond, Equitifund is offering a limited-time stamp duty rebate on selected apartments.

Eligible purchasers can also secure finance options, including a 3.99 per cent two-year variable rate, loan-to-value ratios of up to 90 per cent, and interest-only lending options through EquitiCredit.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=147685]

Joel Robinson

Why this Castle Hill apartment building starts with a $7 million advantage

For much of the past few years, conversations about Australia's property market have centred on the rapid growth seen in Sydney, Brisbane, Gold Coast, and Perth. <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/melbourne-vic-3004">Melbourne</a> has followed a different trajectory.

That relative underperformance is now encouraging some buyers to reassess the city, particularly those willing to look beyond short-term market movements and focus on quality property in established locations, along with the long-term growth prospects of a city expected to overtake Sydney as Australia’s most populous.

John Bekiaris, Research &amp; Market Insights at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Projects by Equitifund</a>, said Melbourne's current position is attracting increasingly sophisticated purchasers.

"Melbourne continues to present one of Australia's strongest long-term investment stories," Bekiaris says.

"While other capital cities have experienced stronger recent growth, that relative underperformance is exactly what's attracting sophisticated counter-cyclical investors."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1979 project_image_fid=363268]

Equitifund isn't just commenting on Melbourne's property market, it's investing in it.

The Sydney-headquartered capital partner has taken over the remaining apartments at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/victoriana-melbourne-20-queens-road-melbourne-vic-3004">Victoriana</a>, the recently completed glass-encased development opposite Albert Park Lake in Melbourne's tightly held St Kilda Road precinct.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a> and built by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/hickory">Hickory</a>, Victoriana places residents between one of Melbourne's most recognised parklands and the CBD, offering oversized two and three-bedroom apartments aimed at owner-occupiers seeking a genuine alternative to a traditional family home.

The development comprises 232 completed residences alongside a suite of resident amenities, including a 25-metre indoor swimming pool, gymnasium, landscaped entertaining areas, resident lounges, EV charging, secure basement parking and a concierge-style arrival experience.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1979 project_image_fid=363229]

The apartments have been designed with owner-occupiers firmly in mind.&nbsp;Open-plan living and dining areas flow onto generous balconies framing views across Albert Park Lake, Fawkner Park, the Royal Botanic Gardens and the Melbourne skyline.

Kitchens feature Gaggenau appliances, stone benchtops and generous preparation space. Bedrooms include built-in robes, while bathrooms feature full-height textured tiling. Hardwood flooring and ducted air conditioning complete residences designed for long-term living.

Rothelowman's architecture takes its cues from the landscape opposite the site. Sweeping horizontal glazing references the movement of Albert Park Lake, while generous balconies and expansive glazing strengthen the connection between the apartments and the surrounding parklands. The result is a building designed to deliver the scale and amenity expected of luxury apartment living, while offering the larger floorplans increasingly sought by owner-occupiers.

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The location is one of Victoriana's defining characteristics. Positioned on Queens Road, residents are directly opposite Albert Park Lake and within easy reach of Fawkner Park, the Royal Botanic Gardens, South Melbourne, St Kilda Road and the CBD. With few comparable development opportunities remaining in the precinct, buyers are increasingly placing value on outlooks that are unlikely to be interrupted by future construction.

Greg Huxley, Founder of Equitifund, believes those qualities become even more valuable over time.

"Premium real estate has always rewarded buyers who take a long-term view," Huxley said.

"Victoriana represents the kind of asset that's increasingly difficult to recreate today, particularly in an established location like Queens Road."

He said rising construction costs are also changing the way buyers assess completed developments.

"When you combine an irreplaceable location with thoughtful architecture and premium finishes, you create something that becomes increasingly difficult to reproduce as construction costs continue to rise."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1979 project_image_fid=363228]

According to National Sales Director Ben Hamblett, enquiry has been driven largely by Melbourne downsizers and buyers upgrading from smaller apartments.

"Interest in Victoriana continues to build, with strong buyer focus on the larger owner-occupier residences within the development," Hamblett says.

"Enquiry is increasingly driven by local buyers who recognise the rarity of what's on offer: park-facing apartments in an established neighbourhood where new development opportunities are becoming increasingly scarce. At Victoriana, the view is not just a feature; it's an appreciating asset in its own right."

He said interstate enquiry has also strengthened as buyers reassess Melbourne's position within the national property cycle.

"Melbourne currently stands as the most compelling entry point of any major Australian capital, and discerning buyers are beginning to recognise what those who move early always understand: the best opportunities are taken before the price rise confirms them."

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Why now is the time to buy in Melbourne's premium apartment market

Developers and apartment buyers have a narrowing window of opportunity before Brisbane's Olympic infrastructure pipeline begins competing directly with residential construction, pushing up costs, tightening labour supply and making new projects increasingly difficult to deliver.

While Brisbane's apartment market continues to benefit from strong population growth and limited housing supply, industry research suggests the years leading up to 2027 could prove to be the most important period for developers looking to secure builders and buyers hoping to purchase before the next wave of price increases.

A new Colliers report, Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games: Creating Solutions, highlights the scale of the challenge. While thousands of new homes are planned across South East Queensland, the Brisbane Olympic Athletes Village alone will deliver more than 10,500 beds during the Games before being converted into around 1,750 to 2,000 apartments. Equivalent to almost two years of typical inner-city apartment supply, the project will also absorb a significant share of the construction workforce and building materials.

The broader construction pipeline paints an even clearer picture.

Construction Skills Queensland's Horizon 2032 report forecasts Queensland's annual construction pipeline will average $69 billion over the coming years before peaking at $75 billion in 2027-28. Demand for construction workers is expected to increase by 17 per cent to almost 150,000 people, with the industry facing an annual shortfall of around 19,000 workers that could blow out to as many as 35,000 during the peak construction period.

The Olympic venues, athletes village and supporting infrastructure will account for billions of dollars worth of work across South East Queensland through to 2032, creating intense competition for labour at a time when Australia's residential construction sector is already under pressure.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150489 project_image_fid=373834]

Colliers Queensland Residential Director Andrew Scriven said the convergence of these projects is creating a clear window of opportunity for both developers and buyers.

"From 2027 onwards, the market will shift dramatically," Scriven said.

"Labour will increasingly be locked into government-led infrastructure and Olympic projects, which means private residential developments will face higher costs and tighter margins. The developers who move now are the ones most likely to get projects off the ground."

Scriven said the same dynamic would also affect buyers, with fewer apartment projects expected to launch once construction capacity tightens.

"If you're looking to change your lifestyle over the next five years, now is your window of opportunity to buy."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150713 project_image_fid=373827]

Developers are already positioning themselves ahead of that window.

Following the success of Monarch at Toowong, Consolidated Properties is preparing to launch two new Brisbane apartment projects in the second half of 2026. They include <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/gloriette-30-bedivere-street-yeerongpilly-qld-4105">Gloriette</a> at Yeerongpilly Green, a 25-storey tower within one of Brisbane's key Olympic precincts, and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/castile-47-skyring-terrace-newstead-qld-4006">Castile</a>, a recently approved 25-storey riverfront development at 47 Skyring Terrace in Newstead.

Hutchinson Builders will deliver both projects, with early works already underway at Yeerongpilly and Newstead expected to commence later this year.

The timing comes as Brisbane's fundamentals continue to strengthen, with strong interstate migration, population growth and vacancy rates remaining below 1.5 per cent.

Colliers Queensland researcher Pragya Sharma said Greater Brisbane is forecast to require around 40,000 new apartments between 2021 and 2031.

"There's a real mismatch emerging between when housing is needed and when it will be feasible to build," Sharma said.

"As a result, the period leading up to 2027 presents a key window of opportunity for developers to secure approvals, funding and construction capacity, while buyers will have greater choice before supply constraints intensify."

Colliers research outlines a critical pre-2027 window to start residential projects before labour squeeze: now is the time to buy

Developers, buyers on watch in South East Queensland ahead of construction crunch: Colliers

It's taken less than nine months for developer Sherpa Property Group to sell out all 51 apartments in its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-oasis-palm-beach-7-9-sixth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Oasis</a> development in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/palm-beach-qld-4221">Palm Beach</a>, over a year before its anticipated completion.

&nbsp;

Located at 7-9 Sixth Avenue, the $67 million development has resonated strongly with both local owner-occupiers and downsizers seeking high-quality apartments within walking distance of the beach, dining precincts and everyday amenities.

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Christie Leet, Founder of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sherpa-property-group">Sherpa Group</a>, said the sell-out reflected both the strength of the Palm Beach market and the success of Sherpa's community-first approach to development.

"The sell-out of Oasis is a fantastic outcome and reinforces the strong demand we're seeing for thoughtfully designed apartments in lifestyle locations," Leet said.

"From the outset, our vision was to create a development that genuinely enhanced the Palm Beach community while providing residents with exceptional homes and wellness-focused amenities.

"We've been incredibly encouraged by the level of local support throughout the campaign, 72.5 per cent of buyers are locals, with a significant proportion of purchasers choosing Oasis as their future home rather than an investment."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151449 project_image_fid=357463]

Construction is now progressing following development approval, with trusted builder LPS Group delivering the project and completion anticipated in Q3 2027.

Oasis forms part of Sherpa Group's successful Flourish collection, which has become recognised for its focus on wellness, community and elevated coastal living.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151449 project_image_fid=357469]

Residents will have private access to a rooftop amenity space featuring a pool, gym, sauna, steam room, hot and cold plunge pools, spa and barbecue facilities.

"The success of Oasis demonstrates that buyers continue to prioritise quality, location and lifestyle," Leet said.

"We are proud to have delivered a project that has resonated so strongly with the market and look forward to bringing Oasis to life for our future residents."

Sherpa recently launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-soleira-palm-beach-1150-1160-gold-coast-highway-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Soleira</a>, its third instalment of the Flourish brand in Palm Beach following Flourish Oasis and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/amargo-6-12-sixth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Amargo</a>.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=151449]

Sherpa sells out Flourish Oasis in booming Palm Beach

Urban Property Group's <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/la-vera-macquarie-park-94-talavera-road-macquarie-park-nsw-2113">La Vera</a> is leading the next phase of Macquarie Park's residential evolution, with the new apartment development set to become the first of several new apartment projects in the precinct to complete.

The 169-apartment building has now topped out ahead of its scheduled completion in the third quarter of 2026, as new residential investment continues to reshape one of Sydney's largest employment hubs into a true mixed-use precinct.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134951 project_image_fid=368645]

Cox Architecture has designed La Vera to capture the best of its unique positioning on Talavera Road, orienting the building towards Lane Cove National Park.&nbsp;The building features a sculpted northern façade with flowing curves inspired by the surrounding landscape, while its city-facing elevation adopts a more structured architectural expression to maximise skyline views.

"The vision for the project was to conceive a building that adopted an organic and curvilinear form to the northern portion that faces the Lane Cove National Park," <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">Cox Architecture</a> Director Felipe Miranda said.

"The residents that reside in the northern portion of the building benefit by having beautifully crafted curved balconies that speak to the natural context and heighten the relationship of their internal living spaces to the external balconies."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134951 project_image_fid=358802]

La Vera offers a diverse mix of one, two, three, and four-bedroom configurations, with prices currently starting from $740,000. Buyers so far have been a mix of Sydney-based investors,&nbsp;metro commuters, owner-occupiers and downsizers from surrounding North Shore suburbs.

Both investors and owner-occupiers have been drawn to La Vera's proximity to Macquarie University, Macquarie University Hospital, Macquarie Centre and the Sydney Metro, infrastructure that supports both strong rental demand and a convenient lifestyle for residents.

The apartments feature full-height glazing, timber flooring throughout living areas, stone kitchen benchtops, SMEG appliances, floor-to-ceiling bathroom tiling and ducted air conditioning.

Residents will have access to a rooftop recreation level featuring a swimming pool, sauna, barbecue facilities and landscaped relaxation areas, complemented by additional communal space at ground level. Many apartments enjoy uninterrupted views across Lane Cove National Park, reinforcing the project's connection to its natural setting.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134951 project_image_fid=364551]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a>, a family-owned developer and builder with nearly four decades of experience, holds a 4.5-star iCIRT rating and was Australia's first developer to introduce 10-Year Latent Defects Insurance (LDI). La Vera is the first apartment development in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/macquarie-park-nsw-2113">Macquarie Park</a> approved to offer the additional insurance protection, alongside a five-year warranty on SMEG appliances.

Urban Property Group CEO Patrick Elias said the additional protection reflects changing buyer expectations in the off the plan market.

"Consumers are a lot more weary and a lot more concerned in buying off the plan than they ever have been. Having LDI is a tool to portray the confidence that we have in our product, and a confidence we want buyers to share," Elias said.

Following completion of the building later this year, buyers will move into their apartments well before Christmas.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134951]

Nicola Trotman

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