<html><body>Australian Property Monitors (APM) has released a list of auction results in Adelaide for the weekend of December 14.</body></html>

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APM's Adelaide auction results for December 14 weekend

<html><body>Australian Property Monitors (APM) has released a list of results from 968 auctions in Melbourne for the weekend of  December 14. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.homepriceguide.com.au/saturday_auction_results/Melbourne.pdf" rel="nofollow" style="font-size: 14px;">Click here</a> for the auction results, and click on each street address to see the property's marketing.</body></html>

APM's Melbourne auction results for December 14 weekend

<html><body>Australian Property Monitors (APM) has released a list of results from 669 auctions in Sydney for the weekend of December 14. The clearance rate was 76.1%. <a href="https://www.homepriceguide.com.au/saturday_auction_results/Sydney.pdf" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="font-size: 14px;">Click here</a> for the auction results, and click on each street address to see the property's marketing.</body></html>

APM's Sydney 669 auction results show a 76.1% clearance rate

<html><body>Australian Property Monitors (APM) has released a list of auction results in Brisbane for the weekend of December 7. <a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="https://www.homepriceguide.com.au/saturday_auction_results/Brisbane.pdf" style="font-size: 14px;">Click here</a> for the auction results, and click on each street address to see the property's marketing.</body></html>

APM's Brisbane auction results for December 7 weekend

<html><body>Australian Property Monitors (APM) has released a list of auction results in Adelaide for the weekend of December 7.</body></html>

APM's Adelaide auction results for December 7 weekend

<html><body>Australian Property Monitors (APM) has released a list of results from 974 auctions in Melbourne for the weekend of  December 7. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.homepriceguide.com.au/saturday_auction_results/Melbourne.pdf" rel="nofollow" style="font-size: 14px;">Click here</a> for the auction results, and click on each street address to see the property's marketing.</body></html>

APM's Melbourne auction results for December 7 weekend

<html><body>Australian Property Monitors (APM) has released a list of results from 579 auctions in Sydney for the weekend of December 7. The clearance rate was 78.2%. <a href="https://www.homepriceguide.com.au/saturday_auction_results/Sydney.pdf" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="font-size: 14px;">Click here</a> for the auction results, and click on each street address to see the property's marketing.</body></html>

APM's Sydney 579 auction results show a 78.2% clearance rate

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With the spring auction season over and the heat of summer upon us, property buyers and sellers are facing the inevitable question. With the holiday season around the corner, is it best to list before Santa comes around? Or should you wait until after the champagne pops and 'Auld Lang Syne' has been sung?
Property Observer went out and asked the experts: Should you consider putting your property on the market now or wait until after Christmas? And if so, when is the best time in 2014?
What's your thoughts?
<img alt="poll-results-dec-9" height="124" width="417" src="/images/stories/2013/12/09/poll-results-dec-9.gif">
 
Peter Bushby – President of the <a href="https://www.reia.com.au/%E2%80%8E" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="font-size: 14px;">Real Estate Insitute of Australia</a> (REIA).
<img width="125" height="167" src="/images/stories/2013/10/25/bushby-profile.png" alt="bushby-profile" style="max-width: 480px; font-size: 14px; float: right;">
THERE IS A BENEFIT, BUT PRIVATE TREATY IS THE BEST PATH
I often think that there is a benefit in listing prior to the New Year as a lot of people hold off and you can stand out more in this period before others list. I wouldn't auction over the period but private treaty listings are most suitable! 
The reality is a lot of people have more time over the holiday break to check out what is on the market and others potentially are doing preliminary work before starting - you are in that space ready to go as the volume returns after the break. 
I have found over my 40 years experience selling properties that while there are usually fewer buyers about from mid December to mid January, those that are around seem to be much more committed often wanting to use this time to get organised ready for their move. Issues like buying in an area so they can identify what schools kids may attend so they can get those issues of uniforms, etc bedded down, even if they don't settle immediately.
 
Frank Valentic – Managing director of <a href="https://www.advantageproperty.com.au/%E2%80%8E" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="font-size: 14px;">Advantage Property Consulting</a><img src="/images/stories/2013/10/22/FrankValentic-profile.png" alt="FrankValentic-profile" height="200" width="150" style="max-width: 480px; font-size: 14px; float: right;"> 
DEPENDS ON WHETHER THE PROPERTY IS TENANTED
 I think it depends upon whether you have a vacant investment property versus if the property is a tenanted or owner/occupied property.  I would put a vacant property on the market now as a private sale/forthcoming auction with prior offers invited, to try and keep holding costs down and reduce interest payments with the possibility of still making a sale over the Christmas/New Year period.
Otherwise, if you were to wait until after this period before launching it, you would have five to six weeks of interest payments and if it takes around 34 days afterwards which is the average days on market for a property in Melbourne, your holding costs would be doubled.  
If the property was owner occupied or tenanted so the holding costs would be reduced or not as relevant if you were living there,  I would hold off launching the property until mid-January to cash in on the pent up demand that usually sees strong results in the early February auction period.  
Most years the market starts strongly with many people relocating, New Year’s resolutions and sometimes even a February interest rate cut to spur things on.  I would definitely wait to capitalise on the strong current Melbourne auction market and see competitive bidding for a property where holding costs weren’t an issue.
Article continues on next page. Please click below.  
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Ben Kingsley – Chair of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.pipa.asn.au/" rel="nofollow" style="font-size: 14px;">Property Investment Professionals of Australia</a> (PIPA)<img alt="ben-kingsley-profile-2" src="/images/stories/2013/11/22/ben-kingsley-profile-2.jpg" height="200" width="150" style="max-width: 480px; font-size: 14px; float: right;"> 
AS A BUYER, NEW STOCK IS ALWAYS WELCOME
Speaking from the buyers side, as an independent property investment advisor and director of a buyers agency business, my team and I are constantly on the hunt for properties that meet our clients briefs.  So speaking from a buyers position any new stock is welcome for analysis and inspection, especially in a sellers market which is what we are experiencing in the Melbourne and Sydney markets even this late in the year.  
In the current market, The facts are that good quality properties in superior locations and suburbs are still attracting strong interest and are being bought under stiff competition by highly interested buyers, so any new stock is keenly sort and reviewed.  
Speaking from the sellers side, the best way for a vendor to determine if now is the right time or if early 2014 will be better will come down to two things - firstly how much you have been watching the buyers interest in your localised area and more specifically the level of interest in 'like' properties to yours.   Secondly, how much faith and trust you put in the skill of your selling agent.  They are in the market every day, so the best agents will have a real finger on the pulse in terms of the level of underlying  demand right now compared to what their experienced tells them about the upcoming autumn selling season.  
It a simple case of 'horses for courses'.  In some areas now is as good as any to sell up and start to plan for your next move in 2014, but demand should be very strong to consider this.  If not sure , then the smart money would be to wait until early 2014, as many people use the festive season break to make big decisions about their future - and property is a big decision, so this often leads to higher levels of underlying demand as the selling season kicks off in early autumn.
 Andrew Wilson – Senior economist, <a href="https://www.apm.com.au" target="_blank">Australian Property Monitors</a><img src="/images/stories/2013/10/04/AndrewWilson-profile.jpg" width="125" height="150" alt="AndrewWilson-profile" style="max-width: 480px; float: right;"> 
MARKET ACTIVITY IS LIKELY TO SLOW DOWN IN 2014
Housing markets traditionally wind down as the Christmas holiday break approaches but the level of the wind-down is dependent on the nature of the local market dynamics.
The Melbourne and Sydney housing markets are currently being characterised by an unprecedented end-of-year surge in auction listings with thousands of properties due to go under the hammer right up until the last Saturday before Christmas.
Melbourne and Sydney home buyers are keen to take advantage of the strongest market conditions since 2010 and wary perhaps that next year’s market conditions may not be as strong. And they are likely to be correct.
Declining economic activity is likely to moderate buyer activity in Sydney and Melbourne next year even if as is increasingly likely interest rates are cut again in the New Year.
The autumn selling season of 2014 however will remain relatively active in both Sydney and Melbourne although auction clearance rates are likely to be below current levels – particularly in Sydney. Prices will still increase moderately over the year but not at the same levels recorded in 2013 and with most of the increases occurring over the first half of the year.
Other capital city markets should perform close to current levels although buyer activity and house prices in Brisbane are set to rise on the back of an improved local economic performance in 2014. The market is clearly signalling that now is a good time to sell in Sydney and Melbourne with selling conditions in most other markets likely to remain consistent at existing levels well into 2014.
Article continues on next page. Please click below. 
 
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Paul Biller - Principal of <a href="https://www.1stcity.com.au/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">1st City Hasemer &amp; Caldwell-Eyles</a> <img alt="biller-profile" src="/images/stories/2013/11/15/biller-profile.jpg" height="200" width="150" style="max-width: 480px; float: right;">
SERIOUS BUYERS ARE ALWAYS LOOKING AND THE HOLIDAYS ARE NO EXCEPTION
With the holidays fast approaching, sellers often wonder if they should list their properties now or wait until the New Year.
The conventional rule used to be that you shouldn’t list your home during the holiday season. Potential home buyers were too preoccupied with attending parties, buying presents or planning vacations. But with the Internet and the marketing process having become far more sophisticated than in previous times, buyers for good quality properties can be found all year round making the issue of timing less critical today than in the past. Serious buyers are always looking and the holidays are no exception. Buyers can check out the latest listings from their mobiles or tablets on the go.
Due to our work commitments and hectic lifestyles, many serious buyers will use the holiday period to monitor real estate more closely than they may do during the year. Many sellers however believe that buyers disappear over this period and choose to wait until the New Year to commence marketing their properties. The effect for those that are on the market during this time often results in high prices being achieved as there is far less competing properties for the buyers to choose from.  
In reality, all that really phases out over Christmas are the auctions. Private treaty sales continue unabated with many properties being marketed “on the quiet” to great effect.  
Another benefit is that lenders can process loans faster as they are typically not as busy at this time of year enabling prospective buyers to act quickly in finalising a purchase.  
My advice is that if you are considering selling – start the process now in order to capitalise on the low levels of stock. If you are not able to close a sale by Christmas, market the property for a February auction.  
 Kevin Lee - Buyers agent at <a href="https://www.smartpropertyadviser.com.au/%E2%80%8E" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Smart Property Adviser</a> 
<img src="/images/stories/2013/11/15/kevin-lee-profiel.jpg" alt="kevin-lee-profiel" height="200" width="150" style="max-width: 480px; float: right;">
TAKE YOUR CHANCES IN THE NEW YEAR
Ho, Ho, Ho - Santa is about to arrive for some! Maybe......  
It's the $64,000 question on everyone's lips. Should I sell now or should I wait till 2014? Normally there's not much happening in the thousands of residential property markets across Australia between the end of November and mid to third week of January.  
Australia tends to pretty much have a complete 'shut down' mentality when it comes to school holidays, Christmas and New Year all combining into one hot summer. The only things guaranteed to be still on every year though, are the Boxing Day sales; Sydney to Hobart Race; the cricket and the great Aussie BBQ. 
This year however there are plenty of properties still on offer, with auctions scheduled right up to the afternoon of Saturday December 21st. And I think we'll see hundreds of new listings and/or auctions in the second week of January.
Anecdotal evidence I have is that the old 'supply and demand' equation has been hard at work in many parts of Australia - especially in my home town of Sydney. Here's what you need to know and what you need to prepare for:  
1) Over the past four months or so, in Sydney we've witnessed the lowest number of properties for sale in 14 years. 
2) Due to a long period of super low three-year fixed rates - between 4.69% and 4.99% for seven months - thousands of overzealous or uneducated buyers in Sydney have paid above the odds for some very average properties
3) Vendors in many parts of Sydney are getting caught up in the frenzy - and reacting by asking ridiculous prices.
4) Thousands of people who just managed to purchase their first property with a sub 4.99% interest rate are not at all prepared for an interest rate increase.
5) This group don't understand that on a $350,000 mortgage, a mere 2.0% increase to their rate, in fact represents a 40% increase to their interest bill each month.
6) They don't 'get' that their principal and interest repayments on that $350,000 mortgage will go up by $449 per month, from $1877 to $2326 - for owner occupiers this is after tax money people.
7) So you're a first time investor? Sorry - for you that 2.00% increase to your interest rate equates to an extra $583 per month!
Parts of the Sydney property market are 'insane' right now; others have seen an uplift that was literally years in the making. Whilst others are still having to cut their asking price by $500,000 or more - it's all relevant. Three or four months ago was possibly the best time to sell; I'm seeing that now.
There's certainly a lot of mixed messages out there right now, it's hot and cold in different suburbs - including within the auction space.  
So, rather than take my chances next year, a couple of weeks ago my wife and I decided to sell our 100+ year old investment property in Sydney's northern districts pre-Christmas via auction. Due for auction last Saturday, and although it drew strong initial interest that dwindled away (damn lawyers!!!) so we withdrew it from the auction process on Monday a week ago.
Having a great agent though (Amy Kaslar @ LJ Hooker Beecroft) means that we exchanged contracts yesterday for a price that wasn't great; but it wasn't bad either. In this instance we just didn't want to wait and see what the New Year might bring. <a target="_blank" href="mailto:news@propertyobserver.com.au">news@propertyobserver.com.au</a> 
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Should you list before Christmas? The experts have their say

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RBA governor Glenn Stevens' December statement
At its meeting today, the Board decided to leave the cash rate unchanged at 2.5%.
Recent information is consistent with global growth running a bit below average this year, with reasonable prospects of a pick-up next year. Commodity prices have declined from their peaks, but generally remain at high levels by historical standards. Inflation in most countries is well contained.
Overall, global financial conditions remain very accommodative. Volatility in financial markets has abated recently. Long-term interest rates remain very low and there is ample funding available for creditworthy borrowers.
In Australia, the economy has been growing a bit below trend over the past year and the unemployment rate has edged higher. This is likely to persist in the near term, as the economy adjusts to lower levels of mining investment. Further ahead, private demand outside the mining sector is expected to increase at a faster pace, though considerable uncertainty surrounds this outlook. There has been an improvement in indicators of household and business sentiment recently, but it is still unclear how persistent this will be. Public spending is forecast to be quite weak.
Recent data on prices and wages show inflation consistent with the medium-term target. The Bank's assessment is that this is likely to remain the case over the next one to two years.
The easing in monetary policy that has already occurred since late 2011 has supported interest-sensitive spending and asset values. The full effects of these decisions are still coming through, and will be for a while yet. The pace of borrowing has remained relatively subdued overall to date, though recently there have been signs of increased demand for finance by households. There is also continuing evidence of a shift in savers' behaviour in response to declining returns on low-risk assets. Housing and equity markets have strengthened further over recent months, trends which should in time be supportive of investment.
The Australian dollar, while below its level earlier in the year, is still uncomfortably high. A lower level of the exchange rate is likely to be needed to achieve balanced growth in the economy.
At today's meeting, the Board judged that the setting of monetary policy remained appropriate. The Board will continue to assess the outlook and adjust policy as needed to foster sustainable growth in demand and inflation outcomes consistent with the target.
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Housing market has strengthed as global conditions run below average: Glenn Stevens' December Statement

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If you missed these articles, you're missing out. We bring you the best celebrity trophy home stories of 2013 covered on Property Observer.
1) <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/queensland/nathan-tinkler-lists-indulgent-brisbane-acreage-mansion-tinkler-twowaterslides/2013052161547" target="_blank">Nathan Tinkler lists indulgent Brisbane acreage mansion </a>
Beleaguered coal baron Nathan Tinkler, who dropped off the BRW Rich List, listed his $5.2 million mega-mansion on a four hectare acreage outside Brisbane back in May.
Rebecca Tinkler bought the property (pictured below) in 2007 for $5.2 million. It's among several trophy homes owned by the family.
Last year Tinkler came 34th on the BRW Rich 200 with estimated net wealth of $915?million, but this year he fell under the $235?million threshold.
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/2013/05/may21tinkler]}
Article continues on next page. Please click below.
 
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2) <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/news/aussies-keeping-us-realtors-busy-olivia-newton-john-portia-de-rossi-and-frank-lowy/2013062661728" target="_blank">Aussies keeping US realtors busy: Olivia Newton-John, Portia de Rossi and Frank Lowy</a> 
Summer nights songstress Olivia Newton-John listed her beachfront Florida home for $6.2 million.
The Aussie star bought the four-bedroom Jupiter Island home (picturd below) with her hubby and founder of herb company Trivita, John Easterling, in 2009 for $4.1 million.
The couple spent approximately $2 million renovating the property in 2010, which now features hurricane impact-rated glass windows and doors – a necessity for tropical storm laden Florida.
Situated on 1,393 square metres, the property boasts a lagoon style pool, lush tropical landscapes and a private boat dock.
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/2013/06/june27jupiter]}
 
Meanwhile, Geelong girl Portia de Rossi and her wife Ellen DeGeneres reportedly splashed out and bought an estate in Montecito California for over $20 million.
Reports say the pair paid $26.5 million for the lavish Saladino Villa (pictured below) but it was advertised on listing agent Susan Burns’ <a href="https://susanburns.com/address.php?property_ID=86&amp;aic_SearchStart=0&amp;statusID=" target="_blank">website</a> for $22 million.
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/2013/06/june27saladino]}
 
Westfield founder Frank Lowy splashed out $13 million for a three-bedroom apartment in the Trump International Hotel and Tower (pictured below).
Located on level 35, the 284-square-metre apartment features 4.5 bathrooms and Central Park views through floor to ceiling windows.
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/2013/06/june27star]}
Article continues on next page. Please click below.
 
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3) <a href="/news">Nicole Kidman finally pockets the proceeds of her rarely used, loss-making Rosedale, NSW far south coast bungalow getaway </a>
Actor Nicole Kidman finally secured the proceeds of the last piece of her loss-making beachfront holding on the New South Wales far south coast.
Nicole Kidman purchased the vacant Rosedale block (pictured below) as part of a $4 million outlay on the coastal strip in 2004.
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/jan24kidman]}
She had previously recouped $3 million selling two of the properties to Canberrans.
The last portion was the vacant 1,009-square-metre block that settled only recently at $665,000.
When Kidman and her country music star husband, Keith Urban, are seeking a break from their <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/actor-nicole-kidman-secures-third-apartment-in-milsons-point-latitude-apartment-complex-title-tattle/2012080355848">Milson Point, North Sydney </a>penthouse they head to Bunya Hill (pictured below), a 45-hectare cattle stud with a magnificent 1878 Georgian mansion.
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/2013/08/aug2kidman3]}
Article continues on next page. Please click below.
 
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4) <a href="/news">Toadie stays put on Ramsay Street if 'noice' house on Neighbours sells to an investor: Title Tattle </a>
For much of the last three decades, the world over has known of it via its then television small screens, as 30 Ramsay Street, home to Toadfish "Toadie'' Rebecchi.
Its downsizing vendor Faye Pierce listed the four-bedroom home she built with her husband in 1973 for auction back in March.
<img alt="ramsay" width="470" height="338" src="/images/stories/2013/01/ramsay.jpg">
 
Of course Melbourne is home to the bogan home to beat all others, <a target="_blank" href="https://house.ksou.cn/house_img.php?t=0&amp;sta=vic&amp;id=138949&amp;seq=0">4 Lagoon Place, Patterson Lakes</a> (pictured below). It was the home of Kath Day-Knight her husband butcher, Kel and her daughter, Kim.
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/2013/01/jan25kathkim]}
"This home is not for the renovator," it was stressed. "The Kath &amp; Kim television program viewers wouldn't know it given the use of screening that blocks out the water, but the house is a waterfront," said the selling agent.
Article continues on next page. Please click below.
 
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5) <a href="/news">Natalie Bassingthwaighte lists Elwood investment </a>
Natalie Bassingthwaighte, the pop singer, actress and X Factor Australia television judge, listed her Elwood investment property back in June.
The three-bedroom, two-bathroom period Elwood investment cost $595,000 in 2005. The open plan living/dining area opens to a covered deck with open fireplace and private courtyard.
There's a gourmet Miele kitchen appliances with breakfast bar, corian bench tops and concealed fridge/freezer.
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/2013/06/june7elwood]}
The property <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/natalie-bassingthwaighte-s-elwood-period-investment-property-sells-at-auction/2013070162870">went to auction in July</a> where five bidders fought it out from a starting bid of $850,000 followed by a vendor bid of $1 million. The auctioneer took increments of $20,000, $10,000, $5000 and then $1000 until the property was passed in at $1.18 million.
Matt White, of Ray White Port Phillip, said negotiations then continued inside until the deal was clinched at "more than $1.2 million". He would not disclose the exact price.
 
 
{module Which of these was your favourite celebrity trophy home story?}
<a href="/news"> </a>
<a href="mailto:news@propertyobserver.com.au" target="_blank">news@propertyobserver.com.au</a>
 
 
 
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Best of 2013: Celebrity trophy homes 

Queensland builder-developer MAYD has revealed the first look at its major North Kirra beachfront development, lodging amended plans that reduce the number of apartments and increase the proportion of larger residences.

The project is planned across a substantial 4,742 sqm amalgamated site spanning seven lots at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/2-6-pacific-parade-bilinga-qld-4225">2-6 Pacific Parade</a> and 27-33 Golden Four Drive in Bilin​ga, directly opposite Nor​th Kirra Beach.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mayd-group">MAYD</a> secured the site for $32.5 million in 2025, in what was one of the Gold Coast's largest property transactions of the year.

The development will be delivered across two stages, with the first stage carrying an estimated gross realisation value of around $360 million.

The latest amendments seek to reduce the overall apartment count and shift the project further toward the owner-occupier market, with larger residences designed for buyers wanting considerably more space than traditionally offered in a beachfront apartment.

The residential mix will include townhomes, oversized two-bedroom apartments, substantial three-bedroom residences and four-bedroom homes.

MAYD has appointed Cera Stribley to lead the architecture and interiors, with the Melbourne-based design practice drawing on the beachfront setting through a series of ocean-facing terraces and heavily landscaped balconies.

Strong horizontal forms and curved balconies will define the exterior, with subtropical landscaping integrated throughout the building to soften the built form and increase the connection between the residences and the beachfront.

The project will also include an extensive collection of resident wellness and lifestyle facilities, continuing the broader shift across the Gold Coast's luxury apartment market toward larger homes supported by resort-style amenity.

<img alt="MAYD" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d1bcbb05-e659-4b47-8bd4-1e595315e2ad" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-27%20at%202.05.03%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=jj0XEud1X1DuLt7_KyElhjMdZGOXmLHP" />

MAYD Founder Todd Mould said North Kirra was increasingly appealing to buyers attracted to the more established, lower-density character of the southern Gold Coast.

"North Kirra presents one of the most compelling luxury residential opportunities currently emerging in Australia, combining absolute beachfront with the character and authenticity that buyers are increasingly seeking, and the same sense of tight-knit community that defined Burleigh and Currumbin perhaps 10 or 15 years ago," Mould said.

"With Gold Coast Airport on its doorstep, it also offers a level of accessibility that broadens its appeal across almost every market demographic."

The project comes as the southern Gold Coast continues to attract an increasing share of high-end apartment development and buyer activity.

Kirra in particular has emerged as one of the region's more tightly held beachfront markets, with its relatively low-density character, established surf and hospitality scene and proximity to Gold Coast Airport differentiating it from the higher-density markets further north.

Mould said those characteristics had informed the approach MAYD and Cera Stribley had taken to the project.

"We've worked closely with Cera Stribley to create a vision that is deeply connected to its surroundings," he said.

"Inspired by the coastline itself, the architecture has been shaped around space, privacy and resort-style living, creating a collection of homes that reflects the next generation of luxury on the southern Gold Coast."

MOTIV Managing Director Carly Cottam, who has been appointed to market the project, said buyer attention had continued to move south along the Gold Coast.

"Purchasers who may once have defaulted to Broadbeach, Main Beach or Surfers Paradise are increasingly recognising the value of a genuine beachfront location that offers lower density, strong amenity and a more established sense of community," Cottam said.

"Kirra has a powerful combination of growing demand and genuine scarcity. Beachfront supply is inherently constrained, the area remains relatively low density, and buyers are increasingly placing a premium on locations that feel established, uncrowded and authentic rather than heavily developed."

Cottam said the proximity to Gold Coast Airport was also proving increasingly important for interstate and second-home buyers.

"Being minutes from Gold Coast Airport makes it particularly compelling for interstate buyers, frequent travellers and second-home purchasers who can access an authentic coastal lifestyle almost immediately after stepping off a flight."

The acquisition takes MAYD's active development portfolio to more than $500 million, with the North Kirra project representing one of its largest undertakings to date.

MAYD is targeting an early 2027 launch.

Joel Robinson

First look at MAYD's North Kirra mixed-use precinct

<main data-perf-region="main">
Castle Hill, the longtime hub of the Hills District, has been one of the major beneficiaries of Sydney's Metro expansion, with improved connectivity helping drive continued population growth, development and buyer demand across the Hills District.

But despite that growth, the suburb has seen relatively few major new apartment projects brought to market over the past 18 months.

Hills District developer Reve Group is looking to fill that gap with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/nova-r-ve-castle-hill-2-garthowen-crescent-castle-hill-nsw-2154">Nova Rêve</a>, a major new mixed-use precinct on the corner of Garthowen Crescent and Old Castle Hill Road, a short walk from Castle Hill Metro Station and Castle Towers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377679]

The project will comprise three residential towers alongside a hotel, restaurants, cafes and a skybar, more than 1,600 sqm of ground-floor retail and almost an acre of landscaped gardens.

It represents the largest project undertaken by Reve Group, the development arm of the Kassis family, which has been building across the Hills District for more than 30 years through Kassis Homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377675]

Nova Rêve also represents a significant step up from the family's first apartment development, Grand Rêve, which was delivered nearby on Garthowen Crescent.

Grand Rêve introduced larger, house-like apartment layouts and premium inclusions including Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances to the Castle Hill market.

Nova Rêve takes that approach to a precinct scale, combining the residential component with hospitality, retail and substantial public and resident landscaping.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377685]

Reve Group Managing Director Sam Kassis said the project reflected the family's three decades of building in the Hills, which has evolved from trophy homes on quarter-acre blocks to larger-scale apartment development.

"Grand Rêve was our first apartment project here and it showed us what this pocket of Castle Hill could be. Nova Rêve is the refinement of that idea: not just apartments, but a place the whole suburb can use," Kassis said.

A key part of that approach is the hotel, which has been designed to operate as an amenity for the wider Castle Hill community rather than solely hotel guests.

It will include restaurants, cafes, skybars and all-day dining, alongside conference and event facilities catering to business functions, community groups and private events.

At ground level, more than 1,600 sqm of shops and cafes will open onto the surrounding streets and landscaped areas.

Almost an acre of gardens designed by Land and Form Studios will run through the precinct, incorporating pathways, seating, barbecue areas and children's play spaces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377680]

Reve Group's Romio Georges said creating an active ground plane had been central to the planning of Nova Rêve.

"There are gardens with pathways, barbecues, seating and play areas, shops and cafes opening onto the street, and a hotel with restaurants and a skybar that anyone in Castle Hill can walk into," Georges said.

The project's elevated position on one of Sydney's highest ridgelines will also provide apartments with outlooks toward the Sydney skyline, surrounding parkland and the Blue Mountains.

More than 80 per cent of the apartments will occupy corner positions, with Turner responsible for both the architecture and interiors.

&nbsp;

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Nova Rêve arrives as Reve Group bets on Castle Hill's next growth phase

A collection of just 25 large-format apartments and penthouses overlooking Goodwin Park is entering the Coolangatta market, with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/marea-residences-coolangatta-27-27a-dixon-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Maréa Residences</a> combining a low-density, residential-only approach with uninterrupted park and Pacific Ocean outlooks.

Located at 27 Dixon Street, Maréa comprises three and four-bedroom residences alongside a limited number of dual-level penthouses, with the project positioned between Goodwin Park and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/coolangatta-qld-4225">Coolangatta</a>’s coastal precinct.

Construction has commenced, with completion currently estimated for late 2027. Three-bedroom residences are priced from $1.8 million.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150999 project_image_fid=374005]

The project has been designed around its northern outlook across the park, with the building’s architecture, landscaping and material palette intended to establish a connection with the neighbouring green space. The residences have been configured to maximise natural light and views across Goodwin Park towards the ocean.

Inside, the material palette incorporates timber, stone and brushed brass, complemented by curved detailing and ambient lighting. Kitchens and bathrooms carry the same natural material approach, while residences also include basement parking, storage and lift access.

Maréa’s penthouses are arranged over two levels and include private pools, adding another layer to the project’s focus on larger-format apartment living. Across the development, residences are configured with three or four bedrooms rather than the broader mix of smaller apartment types commonly found in larger projects.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150999 project_image_fid=374010]

Resident amenity is concentrated at rooftop level, where landscaped entertaining terraces and pools take advantage of elevated views across Coolangatta and the Pacific Ocean.

The project has so far been particularly well received by local owner-occupiers and downsizers, according to Urban Activation Property Sales and Marketing Director Matt George, with the residential-only format, construction quality and northern park outlook among the features resonating with purchasers.

“The uninterrupted northern aspect overlooking Goodwin Park has been a key point of difference, with buyers attracted to the sense of serenity and open space the park provides, while still enjoying easy access to the ocean and being within walking distance of the lifestyle and amenities Coolangatta has to offer,” George said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150999 project_image_fid=374002]

“The combination of high-quality construction, a residential-only building, park outlook and proximity to the beach has resonated strongly with the local downsizer market.”

The Dixon Street address is within walking distance of Coolangatta Beach and the broader southern Gold Coast coastline, including the surf breaks at Snapper Rocks and Kirra. Coolangatta’s cafés, restaurants and retail are nearby, while Gold Coast Airport is also within close proximity.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150999]

Maréa Residences brings parkside apartments to Coolangatta

Melbourne developer PDG has secured Victorian Government approval for its $1.5 billion Southbank development <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-one-1-queens-bridge-street-southbank-vic-3006">The One</a>, clearing the way for the long-dormant riverfront site opposite Crown to finally be developed.

The Minister for Planning has approved the project at 1-29 Queens Bridge Street, with the Department of Transport and Planning issuing the planning permit following its assessment.

The approval will allow PDG to develop the prominent 5,059 sqm site with a major mixed-use tower comprising premium apartments, including branded residences, a luxury hotel and boutique office space.

PDG acquired the site in late 2024, with its position directly opposite Crown's main entrance and near Melbourne's Arts Precinct making it one of Southbank's most significant remaining development opportunities.

<img alt="PDG" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3933013e-6332-4386-b9be-089df05caf17" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-27%20at%209.29.22%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=sITIgBqDL0N3VNSMwWEmF5UA.uvcsRyu" />

Designed by COX in collaboration with ODO and PDG, the tower's architecture draws on the movement of the Yarra River, with six vertical pleats running the height of the sculpted facade.

The project will also see the heritage-listed Queens Bridge Hotel restored and incorporated into the development&nbsp;with new hospitality and public uses, including a rooftop venue.

A significant component of The One will be its residential amenity.

More than 5,000 sqm of resident facilities will be delivered across a single level, making it one of the largest consolidated residential amenity offerings proposed in an Australian apartment development.

The planning approval also incorporates a major upgrade of Queensbridge Square, which PDG will deliver in partnership with the City of Melbourne.

<img alt="PDG" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="73167fcd-1031-4b6f-a408-a064cfe45ed1" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-27%20at%209.29.17%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=Pf1AEWxw6SNmBqR0zQW5lyEze.MtxgFp" />

The existing square will be revitalised as a new civic and pedestrian space along the Yarra River, strengthening the connection between the project, Southbank and the riverfront.

PDG Founder and Managing Director Vince Giuliano said the approval represented a major milestone for a site which has remained largely underutilised for more than 15 years.

“This is the most significant Planning Permit approval Melbourne has seen in recent years,” Giuliano said.

“For more than 15 years, this site has remained underutilised. This approval enables us to deliver a project that will contribute meaningfully to the revitalisation of Southbank, restore and reactivate an important heritage building, and create a new civic and hospitality destination for Melbourne.”

The latest approval follows an earlier planning permit issued by the City of Melbourne covering demolition works across part of the site at 9-29 Queens Bridge Street. Those demolition and early works are already underway.

PDG has also started generating early interest in the residential component from owner-occupiers ahead of a planned public launch in early 2027.

PDG secures approval for $1.5bn Southbank apartment development, The One

Local developer Harridan is seeking to turn its Woolloongabba apartment project into the first stage of a broader transformation of Burke Street, using a new 16-storey mixed-use building to establish a greener pedestrian connection toward the rapidly evolving Boggo Road transport and knowledge precinct.

The South East Queensland developer has filed plans for 154 apartments on the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/4-burke-street-woolloongabba-qld-4102">southern side of Burke Street</a>, where its proposal has been designed alongside a wider vision by LatStudios for the street.

That vision positions the southern side of Burke Street for buildings of 15 storeys and above, while envisaging lower-rise development of up to five storeys on the northern side to transition into Woolloongabba's existing character housing. It also proposes wider pedestrian verges, deep planting, new street trees and upgrades to the pedestrian approach to Boggo Road Station.

The Harridan development itself has been designed by Brisbane-based Arqus Design and will comprise 154 apartments across 16 storeys. The mix is weighted heavily toward two-bedroom apartments, with 121 proposed alongside 10 one-bedroom and 23 three-bedroom residences. There will typically be around 14 units per floor.

A lower-ground car park and three podium levels will accommodate 156 resident parking spaces, along with visitor and commercial parking. There will also be 154 resident bicycle spaces and 40 visitor bicycle parks.

&nbsp;

Harridan is a family-owned developer and part of the Holmwood Highgate Group, with more than three decades of development activity across South East Queensland. Its portfolio spans residential, commercial and industrial property, with current residential projects including Riverbank on Byron in Bulimba, Esperance Residences in Carina and The Precinct at Kinross Road in Thornlands.

Wooloongabba has been popular for apartment developers, particularly since the announcement of the 2032 Summer Olympics games in Brisbane.

While there have been a lot of development applications, it has failed to materialize into real supply.&nbsp;

Sarazin has been the major player in the area. They are under construction at Murcia Residences, on the fringe of East Brisbane and Woolloongabba. They have just launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-stanley-residences-woolloongabba-8-trafalgar-street-woolloongabba-qld-4102">The Stanley Residences</a>, in Woolloongabba on Trafalagar Street. They also have Nuage coming soon on the nearby <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/nuage-woolloongabba-14-wellington-road-woolloongabba-qld-4102">Wellington Road</a>.

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