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The Novotel Melbourne on Collins and the new fashion and dining precinct, St Collins Lane, is up for sale with expectations of $500 million through an expressions of interest campaign.
The hotel and retail component are offered individually or in-one-line.
The Novotel Melbourne comprises 380 guest rooms, conferencing facilities, restaurant and bar, while the soon-to-be-completed St Collins Lane on the famous Collins Street will offer more than 9,000 sqm of GLA across four floors (plus a mezzanine level).
With over 60 stores, the centre has pre-commitment by a number of international brands including Coach, TAG Heuer, Reiss, Maje, Sandro Paris and The Kooples, along with a host of luxury Australian brands, as well as popular restaurants including Burger Project and Los Vida. The shopping and dining precinct will be launched on May 12.
The transaction will be handled by JLL’s Craig Collins and Simon Rooney. 
“Novotel Melbourne on Collins is one of Melbourne’s leading hotels benefiting from proximity to key demand drivers," said Collins, CEO JLL Hotels &amp; Hospitality Group Australasia.
"After strong focus on Sydney hotel investment we are seeing several investors move their attention to Melbourne where the city’s strong events offering, cultural experience and strong financial hub has positioned it on the world stage.” 
According to JLL’s head of Retail Investments for Australasia, Simon Rooney, “Major CBD shopping centres are a  highly sought after retail asset class at present, given their high sales productivity, ability to provide solid long-term and sustainable income growth and tightly held nature. 
He said CBD retail transactions touched a record high of $1.2 billion in 2015. 
The EOI campaign closes June 2. 
Recent major CBD retail transactions include:
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<li>World Square Shopping Centre &amp; Car Park (50%), Sydney, sold by Brookfield for $285 million to ISPT in December 2015</li>
<li>Rundle Place &amp; 80 Grenfell Street, Adelaide, sold by epc.Pacific for $400 million to Blackstone in December 2015</li>
<li>206 Bourke Street, Melbourne, sold by Hiap Hoe for $116.28 million to ISPT in December 2015</li>
<li>Myer Centre Adelaide, sold by Novion Retail Partnership for $288 million to YTL Starhill Global REIT in May 2015.</li>
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Novotel Melbourne and Collins St retail centre expected to sell for $500 million

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The RBA leaving interest rates on hold and the Australian dollar's strength likely mean that commercial property and infrastructure assets will reap the benefits from the search by investors for yield, evident from the recent trends in NSW's Newcastle and Charlestown.
In Newcastle, an undersupply of commercial and industrial investment properties against high demand is pushing the yield expectations down to unprecedented levels, said Steve Dick, director of Raine &amp; Horne Commercial Newcastle.
Meanwhile, a recent Raine &amp; Horne auction at Charlestown generated 95 enquiries with 25 contracts issued and 15 bidders registered, achieving a 6.3 percent yield at $1,300,000.
“With only one buyer there are plenty of purchasers left over,” said Steve.
The rise in the Australian dollar could also translate to further rate cuts by the RBA.
“The clear implication is that the rise in Australian dollar has increased the chance that the RBA will act on its bias to ease interest rates again,” said Shane Oliver, head of Investment Strategy and chief economist, AMP Capital.
With growth set to slow due to sluggish mining and housing sectors, relative high unemployment at 6 percent, low inflation coupled with the determination of the banks to put up interest rates independently of the RBA and a strong Australian dollar threatening tourism and higher education, Oliver is confident the RBA will cut interest rates again.
“A soft March quarter inflation report due April 27 could drive this in May – but it may not occur until the June quarter,” he said.
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Low interest rates to drive commercial investment in 2016: Raine & Horne

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Adelaide is a rising market for houses, while for units the recovery is only starting, according to valuation firm Herron Todd White's property clock for April 2016. But HTW focuses more on the fringe suburbs of this South Australian city.
Fringe suburbs are those where buyers have usually traded off a central location for price. Examples of fringe suburbs for detached housing in Adelaide are Woodcroft and Happy Valley to the south, Gulfview Heights to the north and Athelstone to the north- east.
Woodcroft
Woodcroft is situated approximately 20 kilometres south of the Adelaide CBD adjacent to the suburbs of Morphett Vale and Reynella East. Accessibility to the suburb has been enhanced since the duplication of the Southern Expressway. There are courtyard style dwellings (circa 1990s) and older style dwellings available in the low $300,000 range which provide a good entry level point for first home buyers. Newer housing and detached housing on larger allotments typically sell in the $450,000 to $600,000 range.
Weekly rents typically range between $300 and $480 depending on overall property features with an average yield of 4.8% (source: realestate.com.au).
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-sa-woodcroft-121248970" target="_blank">9 Tuscany Way, Woodcroft</a> is a 3-bedroom, 1-bathroom courtyard style dwelling on a 352 square metre allotment which recently sold for $307,500. This property is currently listed for rent at a weekly rental of $320 which reflects an initial yield of 5.4%.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-sa-woodcroft-120619693" target="_blank">8 Topaz Close, Woodcroft</a> is a 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom dwelling on a 556 square metre allotment which recently sold for $360,000. This property is currently listed at $390 per week which reflects an initial yield of 5.6%.
Happy Valley
Happy Valley is situated adjacent to the suburbs of Aberfoyle Park and Reynella East and is approximately 20 kilometres from the Adelaide CBD. There are 1970s and 1980s style detached dwellings available in the low to mid $300,000 range which are entry level properties for first home buyers. Newer housing and renovated housing on larger allotments generally ranges between $450,000 and $650,000.
Weekly rents typically range between $300 and $480 depending on overall property features with an average yield of 4.9% (source: realestate.com.au). There are currently limited dwellings recently sold listed for rent which indicates reasonable demand from owner-occupiers.
Gulfview Heights
Gulfview Heights is 20 kilometres north of the Adelaide CBD and is adjacent to Salisbury East, Wynn Vale and Para Hills. Development comprises 1970s and 1980s dwellings with a section of larger, more modern housing constructed in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Older style housing within the high $200,000 to low $400,000 range is attractive to first home buyers. Newer and more modern housing generally sells in excess of $500,000.
Weekly rents typically range between $300 and $500 depending on overall property features with an average yield of 4.9% (source: realestate.com. au). There are currently limited dwellings in Gulfview Heights which have recently sold that are listed for rent. This indicates reasonable demand from owner- occupiers.
Athelstone
Athelstone is an established north-eastern suburb situated 12 kilometres from the Adelaide CBD. Development comprises predominantly 1970s and 1980s dwellings with sections of increasing infill development. Older style dwellings typically sell within a range of $400,000 to $500,000 with newer dwellings selling in excess of $600,000.
Weekly rents typically range between $300 and $550 depending on overall property features with an average yield of 4.0% (source: realestate.com. au).
4 Kurrajong Avenue is a 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom 1970s Spanish style dwelling on a 715 square metre allotment which recently sold for $520,000. This property is currently listed for rent at a weekly rental of $380 which reflects an initial yield of 3.8%.
Sale example:
The following sales illustrate the difference in price for similar dwellings in Woodcroft compared with the suburb of Unley, a highly regarded area within three kilometres of the Adelaide CBD. 
11 Mildara Close, Woodcroft, sold 4 March 2016 for $337,500
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This property comprises a circa 1993 3-bedroom, 1-bathroom dwelling situated on a 315 square metre allotment with an equivalent area of 138 square metres. The property includes an updated kitchen, single garage (under the main roof) and a rear verandah (source: RP Data). 
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10 Boothby Court, Unley, sold 19 January 2016 for $615,000
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This property comprises a circa 1994 3-bedroom, 1-bathroom semi-detached dwelling situated on a 300 square metre allotment with an equivalent area of 150 square metres. The property includes a single garage (under the main roof) and a rear verandah (source: RP Data). 
A potential purchaser in Woodcroft would be 17 kilometres further from the CBD which is the trade- off for the large reduction in price ($277,500 or 45% difference) compared to the Unley property.
Quality housing in suburbs within 10 kilometres of the CBD continues to experience good demand. Given this, there are more residents moving further from the CBD to seek housing within an affordable price bracket. There is increasing infill development within Athelstone and Happy Valley as well as new development in Woodcroft which is improving the overall appeal of these suburbs. Although further from the CBD, these locations are well serviced with local shopping facilities in good proximity.
These suburbs provide good opportunities for first home buyers seeking detached housing within the $300,000 to $400,000 price bracket. These opportunities are few and far between within close proximity to the CBD with the exception of smaller unit style accommodation. These areas have fairly consistent levels of demand from buyers and tenants alike. The outer northern suburbs (Playford Council area) comprising areas close to Elizabeth and the Holden Manufacturing plant continue to experience negative sentiment with the effects of the imminent closure of the plant in 2017 yet to transpire. 
 
 
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Adelaide fringes are a good buy for FHBs: HTW

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A freestanding property in southern Sydney's Kingsgrove occupied by the Salvation Army went under the hammer for $3.25 million at auctionWorks' commercial property auction in Sydney on April 19.
The order of sale had four properties listed, but one was sold prior while the world class winery Sweetwater in the rolling hills of the Hunter Valley was withdrawn. The fourth was passed.
The one at 61-65 Kingsway Road property was well bid, with offers quickly rising from $1 million to $2.6 million, but auctioneer Jesse Davidson said it was still below the reserve price.
Finally, the last two bidders pushed the price past $3 million.
The selling agents were JLL's Edward Washer and Blair Peterken.
The total building area is 678.1 sqm and the flexible zoning allows for a child care centre, commercial owner occupiers, medical centres and more subject to council approval.
The property is close to Beverly Hills Train Station and 14 km from Sydney CBD.
In contrast to the competitive bidding for the Kingsgrove property, the one in Liverpool was passed after the sole bid of $375,000 fell short of the vendor bid of $395,000.
Suite 107, 161 Bigge Street is a medical suite with an internal space of 104 sqm and annual income of $33,119.52 + GST net. It is leased until October this year.
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Sydney's Kingsgrove property sells for $3.25 million at auction

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Wholesale flooring distributor Premium Floors Australia has signed a lease on its newest warehouse and head office in Melbourne's Dandenong.
The property is located at 81-87 South Park Drive and the company has signed on a seven-year lease. 
CBRE’s James Jorgensen and Stephen Adgemis, along with Andrew Loudon from Crabtrees Real Estate, brokered the deal on behalf of Scaunich Investments Pty Ltd.
“Premium wanted a property that reflected its corporate image, and after an exhaustive search of the market, 81-87 South Park Drive was identified as an ideal option,” Andrew Loudon of Crabtrees Real Estate said.
Jorgensen said the property’s location and size were the main drawcards.
“Despite reasonably high vacancy levels in the south-east, there remains little choice available for tenants looking to buy/lease buildings circa 5,000 sqm,” Jorgensen said.
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Flooring distribution firm signs lease deal for office in Melbourne's Dandenong 

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A Sunshine Coast hinterland resort catering to bed and breakfast, small conference and boutique wedding market is up for sale through auction on May 19.
The 4-½ star Maleny Views Cottage Resort and Conference Centre at 1 Panorama Place, Maleny, is being offered as an investment opportunity with the existing managers committed to a long-term lease agreement.
The property is on a land area of about 4,267 sum and generates a net income of nearly $136,036 per annum.
It is being marketed by Ray White Commercial Caloundra’s Len Greedy, Alan Gray and Luca Reynolds.
Gray said the resort is in a picturesque location near the townships of Maleny and Montville and enjoys coastal views.
“There are views from the cottages to the coastline and extending southward to the Glasshouse Mountains as the land is elevated and set above the road level,” he said.
<img src="/images/2016/04/22/Screen%20Shot%202016-04-22%20at%209.16.07%20PM.png" alt="">
The resort comprises three cottages each containing two studio cabins, a penthouse and studio villa, reception and conference facilities, wedding gazebo and swimming pool.
It also has a separate three-bedroom manager’s residence.
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Sunshine Coast hinterland resort to go under the hammer 

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DEXUS Property Group (DEXUS) and DEXUS Wholesale Property Fund (DWPF) announced on Friday the settlement of the acquisition of 90 and 100 Mount Street in North Sydney for an initial price of $41 million.
DEXUS and DWPF will develop 100 Mount Street, North Sydney as a 34-level office tower spanning 41,163 square metres, said a release on the ASX.
The site is on the corner of Mount and Walker Streets with a third street frontage to Spring Street. It has retail exposure and is close to transport.
Th tower will have Harbour views from its eastern and southern aspects.
Development on the site has already started and completion is expected in 2018.
The developer has already secured a long-term lease across 6,229 square metres with Laing O’Rourke Australia from completion in 2018.
Recently, DEXUS Property Group had a high-profile departure when Craig Mitchell quit as chief operating officer for the CEO’s role at Grocon Pty Ltd.
 
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DEXUS and DWPF settle on acquisition of 100 Mount Street, North Sydney

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The suburban fringe of Brisbane sits around 15 to 20 kilometres from the CBD – that’s a reasonable Sunday run for some ultra-marathon participants.
This means while our most affordable property is still on the edge of established suburbs, it’s a commutable distance, according to valuation firm Herron Todd White's April 2016 residential property clock. 
Brisbane also sits as a rising market for houses while starting to decline for units in HTW's property clock.
Our grand disadvantage as a city is we cover a wide area, and hence the primary public transport system servicing the majority of fringe residents is the bus network. That said, there are still plenty of these outer dwellers able to take advantage of car-accessible train stations, and if you must drive, our systems of tunnels and bypasses are certainly helping relieve congestion, say HTW.
<a href="/images/2016/04/15/Screen%20Shot%202016-04-15%20at%201.34.54%20PM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
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When thinking of our most ‘active’ fringe suburbs, you can look at most compass points. In the west, it’s the multi-stage, mega community of Springfield Lakes. Go north and you’re starting to hit the urban edge around North Lakes, Mango Hill and Griffin although development is dotted beyond this as well. To the south we are building up to the point that it’s hard to tell where Brisbane finishes and the Gold Coast begins, but it’d be safe to say through Logan, Springwood and down to Beenleigh we’re looking at the very outer edges.
Pricewise, the western corridor demonstrates what buyers are looking at when it comes to a baseline buy-in figure. You can still find yourself a house in the very well serviced Springfield Lakes development at around $400,000, and you could even save $50,000 by heading a few kilometres up the road to Redbank Plains. There’s a ready tenant base and you can expect a gross yield of around 4.5% to 5%. According to our valuers, buyers and tenants are still looking to outer areas that are well serviced by facilities. Springfield Lakes has trains and shopping centres, both of which hold appeal for people who have to work in Brisbane’s CBD.
There are similar price points on offer in the North Lakes region. Investors require a touch over $350,000 to get a foot in the door. Once again, there are plenty of tenants available and gross returns of 4.5 percent to 5.5 percent help with the holding costs. North Lakes also appeals with it’s comprehensive retail facilities as well as ready access to the M1 (Bruce Highway) and Gateway Motorway. There’s also a public transport boost on the way as the new rail extension becomes established for those commuters.
While inner Brisbane does have relative affordability compared to a city like Sydney, those budget buyers with a long-term view can still expect a cheap purchase in the fringe to perform admirably. Springfield Lakes is potentially a good buy long term given it’s serviced by trains and shops, and other facilities coming on line including a hospital.
 
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North Lakes and surrounds will probably take a little more time to pick up in their capital growth. There are plenty of infill subdivision sites close by, so supply is assured for some time yet.
As far as areas to avoid, there is still the flood overhang in some parts of the fringe. Make sure you check this carefully. Other attributes that create ‘secondary property’ such as main road frontages, high tension power lines or nearby industrial uses should also be treated with caution. Properties affected by these things can stagnate when the overall market slows down.
Over the medium and long term however, fringe markets are generally steady, so we expect the market to be relatively static for the foreseeable future. 
Property Observer found a few recent sold examples of properties that reflect the fringe markets:
 
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1. A four-bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-springfield+lakes-121755050" target="_blank">9 Talisker Street Springfield Lakes Qld 4300</a> (above) fetched $402,000
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2. A three-bedroom townhouse at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-townhouse-qld-mango+hill-121596838" target="_blank">45/42-51 Wattlebird Street Mango Hill Qld 4509</a> sold for $340,000
 
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Brisbane's fringe markets expected to remain steady: HTW

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The number of women working in the real estate industry is edging closer to that of their male colleagues, according to the Real Estate Institute of Western Australia (REIWA). 
A breakdown of REIWA’s membership showed that almost 50 percent of ordinary members, defined as agency principals or licensees, are women.
Additionally, there are 3,685 female sales representatives across the state compared with 4,293 male. 
In property management, women outnumber men by more than five times.  
REIWA CEO Neville Pozzi said the numbers speak for themselves, particularly in the field of property management.  
“Our membership shows that the gap between males and females working in the industry is closing, almost to the point where the gap doesn’t exist,” he said.  
“When you look at the contribution women make to the industry, particularly in property management, the local real estate industry in WA is ahead of the game when it comes to gender equality."
 
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Gender gap closing in WA real estate industry: REIWA

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Buyers purchasing in suburbs further afield from city centres are attracted to these outlying suburbs by either the availability of affordable vacant land on which to build their own dwelling, larger lifestyle blocks, infrastructure that provides employment opportunities or geographical features that provide water or mountain views, according to valuation firm Herron Todd White's property clock for April 2016.
Hobart, the capital city, was at the start of recovery phase in HTW's property clock for both houses and units.
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Suburbs on the southern outskirts of Hobart that offer such features include Kingston and Blackman’s Bay which are both in the fast growing Kingborough municipality. While residents of Kingston and Blackman’s Bay have longer commutes to the city, Kingston is a fast growing, well serviced suburb located on the southern outlet between Hobart and the Huon Valley. Kingston contains the main commercial shopping centre within this municipal area while Blackman’s Bay offers water frontage.
Just under $1 million in Kingston will buy you a character, four-bedroom, two-bathroom home with in-ground heated pool on 4,000 square metres of land. For those with smaller pockets a three-bedroom, two-bathroom home on just under 1,000 square metres can be purchased from around $380,000.
Brighton, a north-western suburb of Hobart, is approximately 27 kilometres from the centre and is an affordable suburb with vacant land sale prices starting from $87,500. A four-bedroom, two-bathroom, established modern home on acreage can be purchased in Brighton from around $495,000.
Reported gross yields for investors in Tassie’s south for residential property range from 3.9% to 5.5% with vacancy rates of 2.8%.
In Tasmania’s north, Perth, a Launceston satellite village approximately 18 kilometres from the city has been popular with first home buyers due to the affordability of vacant land, especially those who took advantage of the first home builder’s boost grant which at its peak made $30,000 available to eligible buyers. Recent vacant land sales in Perth range from $70,000 to $105,000.
For fringe dwellers who desire larger parcels of land, the suburbs of Riverside, Legana and St Leonards deliver on this need.
St. Leonards is an established suburb to the south- east of Launceston’s centre and offers a variety of property types with a more recent residential development offering larger lifestyle blocks. An older style, 210 square metre residential property with a land parcel of just over two hectares recently sold in St Leonards for $420,000.
Recent sales of vacant land over one hectare were purchased from between $160,000 and $200,000.
Pockets of Riverside and Legana have water views as they are located alongside the Tamar River to Launceston’s north-west. Both of these suburbs contain good facilities including shopping centres, schools and child care facilities.
An older style, four-bedroom, three-bathroom home on just under two hectares with river views in Riverside recently sold for $625,000. A similarly aged, slightly smaller home in Legana on just under half a hectare with an impressive heated indoor pool recently sold for $565,000. A recent vacant land sale in Legana for a parcel of 2,000 square metres achieved $159,500.
Other northern fringe suburbs or satellite towns such as Rocherlea, Ravenswood and George Town have limited investor appeal. Homes in these suburbs can be purchased for less than $100,000. While some investors may achieve good gross returns in these suburbs they should consider that returns are offset by limited capital growth potential in these less sought after suburbs.
 
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Hobart's fringes Kingston and Blackman's Bay offer affordability, good lifestyle: HTW

Roseville is poised for a wave of new apartment development following the NSW Government's rezoning of land around Roseville Station under its Transport Oriented Development program.

The new planning controls have unlocked significant development potential within walking distance of the station, with a number of sites expected to be amalgamated and redeveloped in the coming years as developers seek to take advantage of the increased density allowances.

One of the more restrained developments in the precinct, and set among the first to be delivered having commenced well before the recent changes, is Hyecorp's Juliet. The boutique apartment project is already well under construction and remains on track to welcome residents by the end of the year, offering a markedly different proposition to many of the larger-scale developments now likely to emerge across the suburb.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7395 project_image_fid=278194]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/juliet-roseville-64-pacific-highway-roseville-nsw-2069">Juliet</a> will comprise just&nbsp;34 one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments opposite Roseville Station. For Hyecorp, which has delivered projects across Sydney's Lower North Shore for more than three decades, Roseville presented a rare opportunity to address a growing gap in the market.

"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/roseville-nsw-2069">Roseville</a> has long been one of the North Shore's most tightly held and desirable suburbs, offering a unique combination of village charm, established greenery, excellent transport connections, and proximity to some of Sydney's best schools and lifestyle amenities," Hyecorp said.

"We recognised a growing demand from local homeowners seeking to downsize without leaving the community they have built their lives around. The location presented a rare opportunity to create homes that cater specifically to that buyer profile."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7395 project_image_fid=278196]

The six-level development has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/pbd-architects">PBD Architects</a> as a collection of residences that feel more like homes than apartments. The brief centred generous floorplans, abundant natural light, quality finishes, and strong connections to outdoor space.

PBD Architects drew inspiration from Roseville's established garden suburb character, creating a building that sits comfortably within its surroundings rather than dominating them. The architecture incorporates natural materials, soft forms, layered landscaping, expansive balconies, and generous setbacks to strengthen the connection between residents and the suburb's leafy environment.

"The focus was on designing spacious, house-like residences for discerning owner-occupiers and downsizers who wanted to remain on the North Shore without compromising on comfort, privacy, or design," PBD said.&nbsp;

"Every apartment was to feel considered, timeless, and highly functional."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7395 project_image_fid=278195]

Inside, residences feature engineered timber flooring, stone kitchen benchtops and splashbacks, integrated Fisher &amp; Paykel appliances, ducted air conditioning, and large outdoor entertaining areas designed to take advantage of district and treetop views.

Residents will also have access to a rooftop barbecue and lounge area, alongside practical amenities including parcel lockers, EV charging capability, bicycle storage, a dog wash bay, and a basement car wash facility.

The majority of purchasers so far have been local owner-occupiers from Roseville, Lindfield, Chatswood, Killara, and the broader Upper North Shore, many of whom are transitioning from larger family homes.

"Buyers are looking for spacious, house-like apartments that allow them to downsize without feeling like they are sacrificing comfort or functionality," Hyecorp noted.

"They value large kitchens, generous living areas, ample storage, quality finishes, secure parking, lift access, and low-maintenance living."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7395 project_image_fid=278204]

Juliet sits directly opposite Roseville Train Station and within walking distance of Roseville Village, while Chatswood's retail and dining precinct is only minutes away. The development is also surrounded by some of Sydney's most established schools, including Roseville College, Ravenswood, Pymble Ladies' College, and Knox Grammar, as well as nearby parklands and golf courses.

Juliet is currently more than 75 per cent sold ahead of its anticipated completion in late 2026.

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Joel Robinson

Juliet to sit quietly amid Roseville apartment boom

Sherpa Property Group has unveiled the third instalment of its Flourish series, securing full approval for the two-tower, $500 million Flourish Soleira development in Palm Beach.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-soleira-1150-1154-gold-coast-highway-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Soleira</a> will rise from a prominent site in the commercial heart of Palm Beach, the long-time home of Cash Converters and a range of local retailers.

The project will introduce a new retail and dining precinct at ground level, beneath 286 apartments.

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“We’re very committed to not only providing affordable residential offerings that are much needed in Palm Beach, but also delivering a vibrant new commercial heart that complements the extraordinary growth of the southern Gold Coast,” Sherpa Property Group founder Christie Leet said.

The development will sit under Sherpa's Flourish brand, which is aimed at providing a pathway into the beachside suburb for locals, first-home buyers and downsizers. In a move designed to assist first-home buyers entering the market, Sherpa has reserved all one and two-bedroom, one-bathroom apartments exclusively for eligible first-home buyers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=370964]

“Our vision through Flourish is to create a vibrant retail and lifestyle focal point within the Palm Beach centre zone, delivering thriving communities underpinned by lifestyle-rich locations,” Leet said.

“So far, Flourish has been an incredible success, and we hope to carry this momentum as we progress the next two Flourish projects in Palm Beach.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=371430]

Located across 1150-1164 Gold Coast Highway and 3 Sixth Avenue, the development will comprise two towers. The northern tower will deliver 154 apartments, while the southern tower will add a further 132 residences, helping address ongoing demand for new apartments in the tightly held coastal suburb.

Flourish Soleira will also feature the most extensive rooftop amenity offering ever delivered in Palm Beach.

The two towers will be connected by a skybridge, with residents gaining access to a rooftop recreation deck featuring a full-width swimming pool, hot and cold plunge pools, wellness spaces, a gymnasium, private dining facilities, massage treatment rooms, barbecue areas, a basketball court, golf simulator, indoor and outdoor dining spaces, sun lounges and extensive landscaping.

LPS Group is expected to start construction later this year.

Sherpa is already well advanced on construction of its debut Flourish project, Flourish Amargo, located just around the corner from Soleira. Meanwhile, Flourish Oasis, positioned opposite Amargo, recently commenced construction and has nearly sold out its collection of 47 apartments.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150017]

Sherpa unveils $500m mixed-use Palm Beach precinct, Flourish Soleira

Are mortgage holders set to get a reprieve from the RBA in 2026?

Big Four bank NAB believes so. They are now expecting the next move from the RBA to be a cut, rather than a hike, which they had pencilled in for August. They are unsure of the timing of the cut however, they note in their latest&nbsp;NAB Economics RBA Watch.

NAB Chief Economist, Dr Sally Auld, said recent data suggests the economy has lost momentum and the outlook for rates has shifted, noting that the broader economic backdrop has changed since earlier in the year.

“The next move in the cash rate is likely to be down, but the timing is uncertain," Dr Auld said.

"In February, growth was above trend, the economy was operating above capacity and there was uncertainty over the restrictiveness of rates. None of these conditions exist today,” she outlined.

Dr Auld said recent data pointed to softer momentum across the economy while acknowledging that at the same time, uncertainty remains a key feature of the outlook.

“Both Q1 GDP data and the NAB business survey suggest momentum in the economy has slowed, meaning that growth has likely peaked for the cycle. That said, we are cognisant there is still considerable uncertainty around the outlook, both with respect to activity and inflation.”

Dr Auld said inflation risks and labour market outcomes would be important to watch.

“On the prices side, we are still forecasting above target core inflation through to mid-2027. Margins will compress and weaker labour market outcomes are a risk.”

She said tighter financial conditions are expected to weigh on housing and activity.

“Tighter financial conditions will be reflected in a slowing in house price growth and housing credit growth. In summary, we have greater conviction that the next move in rates is down, but less conviction on the timing.”

Mortgage relief? NAB forecasts RBA rate cut, not hike, after softer economic conditions

A local downsizer has splashed $6.5 million on a penthouse in Perifa's Alex &amp; Willow development in Crows Nest. 
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The purchaser sold their long-held family home in the area before embarking on a six-month search for the right apartment. After inspecting a range of options across the Lower North Shore, the buyer returned to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/alex-willow-crows-nest-82-90-alexander-street-crows-nest-nsw-2065">Alex &amp; Willow</a>. 
&nbsp; 
The buyer profile reflects the project’s broader purchaser mix. <a>Alex &amp; Willow</a> has attracted predominantly local downsizers looking to transition from larger homes without compromising on space or quality, alongside a smaller cohort of upsizers and investors drawn to the project’s location and design credentials. 
&nbsp; 
The milestone sale comes as the project, developed by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/perifa">Perifa</a>&nbsp;and delivered by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/versatile-made-construction">Versatile Construction</a>, both part of Versatile Group, reaches 60 per cent sold.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6680 project_image_fid=371325] 
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Eddie Mansour, Managing Partner of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/ray-white-projects">Ray White Projects</a>, said the result demonstrates not only a headline price but also depth of demand. 
&nbsp; 
“This is an exceptional outcome and a clear reflection of sustained buyer demand for premium, well-located downsizer product,” Mansour said.

“We’re seeing a consistent pattern of local homeowners selling family residences and reinvesting into high-quality apartments that allow them to remain within their community. Alex &amp; Willow has resonated strongly with this group because it offers genuine scale, thoughtful design and immediate proximity to the village.” 
&nbsp; 
The sale reflects a broader and consistent trend of local downsizers actively seeking high-quality, low-maintenance residences close to established village centres. Agents report that demand for this product type has remained resilient, particularly where developments offer a rare combination of scale, design quality and walkable amenity. 
&nbsp;&nbsp; 
Fabrizio Perilli, Managing Director of Perifa and Versatile Group, said the sale marks a defining moment for the project. 
&nbsp; 
“The penthouse sale is a strong endorsement of the quality we have delivered, alongside our partners, and the clear demand from local downsizers for premium, boutique residences in this location,” Perilli said.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
“Most importantly, we’re proud to see the Alex &amp; Willow community beginning to take shape. As we move closer to completion, we’re looking forward to welcoming residents and seeing the project come to life.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6680 project_image_fid=338516] 
&nbsp; 
Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/nettletontribe">Nettleton Tribe</a> with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/richards-stanisich">Richards Stanisich</a>, Alex &amp; Willow is a boutique collection of generously sized two- and three-bedroom residences in the heart of Crows Nest village.&nbsp;

Completion is slated for early 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=6680]

Alex & Willow, Crows Nest penthouse sells off the plan for $6.5 million

Fresh from launching the first stage of its Wollongong precinct, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/keira-place-wollongong-120-122-smith-street-wollongong-nsw-2500">Keira Place</a>, builder-developer Urban Property Group has unveiled plans for the next phase of the masterplanned community.

Now on public exhibition through the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority pathway is a State Significant Development Application for a further 657 homes on the prominent gateway site opposite Beaton Park.

The proposal comprises three buildings, including two build-to-sell towers rising 25 and 30 storeys, delivering 391 apartments, alongside a 12-storey co-living building with 266 residences, making it one of the largest co-living proposals currently planned in regional New South Wales.

Of the apartments proposed in the build-to-sell towers, the majority, 310, are two-bedroom dwellings. The balance comprises 44 one-bedroom apartments and 37 three-bedroom residences. Apartment sizes range from around 50 sqm for one-bedroom homes to approximately 90 sqm for three-bedroom apartments.

<img alt="Smith St" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="19347059-1612-41a0-9c74-b86a657237f8" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-10%20at%2010.02.18%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=sWXnaCcA.cIC6N8YT1dg5pJ2e1V3Z6z7" />

The submission says the proposal has evolved significantly from its original Housing Delivery Authority application following extensive consultation with the State Design Review Panel and Wollongong City Council.

The final scheme has been designed to align with the emerging vision for the Flinders Street Precinct, an area identified by Council as a future high-density mixed-use neighbourhood capable of accommodating substantial housing growth close to transport, employment and community infrastructure.

According to the design report prepared by COX Architecture, the development aims to "deliver a built outcome consistent with the future character of the Wollongong CBD while responding to the site's unique constraints and opportunities."

"Our vision for the next phase of the site evolution in Wollongong is grounded in three design pillars that guide the design response: place, natural environment and celebration," COX said.

"Inspired by its surroundings and grounded in the stories of place on Wodi Wodi Country, the design proposal acknowledges the established character of its setting while creating a unique and timeless identity that sits harmoniously within it.

"The design proposal responds to its specific site conditions, acknowledging the vegetation, climate, wind conditions and solar access of the site."

The architecture responds directly to the site's position between Wollongong's urban core and its natural landscape setting.

COX identified views towards Mount Keira and the Illawarra Escarpment as defining features of the site, while the upper levels of the towers will also capture expansive views across the city and out to the Pacific Ocean.

The design team has positioned the tallest buildings closer to the rail corridor, where overshadowing impacts can be better managed while establishing a landmark built form on the northern approach into the city.

<img alt="Smith St" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="79580d5b-500c-4ebf-9629-797146a4a694" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-10%20at%209.51.59%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=WbTB1EKSG.KDfsfz0F3wp1QVa2oCMGR5" />

Urban Property Group secured the 11,000 sqm Smith Street site in 2022 and has since progressed plans for the broader Keira Place precinct.

Construction recently commenced on the first stage of Keira Place, which will deliver 150 apartments across two residential buildings, including 27 affordable housing apartments and 18 specialist disability accommodation dwellings, alongside activated ground-floor retail and commercial space.

Urban Co-CEO Patrick Elias said the commencement of construction marked a significant milestone for Wollongong and reflected the developer's long-term commitment to regional cities.

"Today's groundbreaking is about turning approvals into homes and moving quickly to deliver much-needed housing in Wollongong's city centre," Elias said.

"Keira Place will provide a diverse mix of homes close to jobs, transport and services, while setting a high benchmark for quality, durability and consumer protection."

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/groundbreaking-marks-start-of-construction-at-keira-place-in-wollongong-cbd">Groundbreaking marks start of construction at Keira Place in Wollongong CBD</a>

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Prateek Chatterjee

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