<html><body>
The February CoreLogic RP Data Home Value Index results (<a href="https://www.corelogic.com.au/media-release/dwelling-values-continue-to-rise-while-rental-yields-compress-further" target="_blank" title="Read Indices results">read results here</a>) showed Melbourne dwelling prices rose at a greater rate over the last three months than any other capital city.
When viewed in conjunction with the strengthening auction market this data confirms the solid position intending sellers now find themselves in.  This will also encourage a rise in listings over the next few months and provide buyers with good choice in April and May.
In the last three months house values have risen 4.8% and over the last month the rise was a more moderate 0.2%. Based on settled sales in the last quarter the median sale price was $549,000.
In the last three months unit values have risen 1.8% and over the last month the rise 0.5%. Based on settled sales in the last quarter the median sale price was $450,000. Unit values continue to be subdued due to high supply.
The clearance rate also rose compared to last year. In February a clearance rate of 74.1% was recorded from 3,452 auctions compared to 71.5% from 2,623 auctions a year ago.
AUCTION MARKET PREVIEW
Strong auction demand continued in Sydney, Melbourne and Canberra last week with all three markets recording clearance rates in excess of their 2014 trend and they were joined by Adelaide where a clearance rate in excess of 70% was recorded for the first time in a year. National volumes also fell this week due to the impact of the Labour Day long weekend, particularly in Melbourne,
There are 1,818 auctions expected this week across Australia with 1,448 expected in capital cities. This is compared to 3,238 last week and 1,520 for the same week last year.
In Sydney 801 auctions are expected compared to 1,223 last week and 859 this week last year. As volumes reached a record high last year, it is remarkable that they are higher again this year and that demand remains very strong.
There are 144 auctions expected in Brisbane compared to 216 last week and 138 this week last year.
This week there are 62 auctions expected in Adelaide compared to 109 last week and 80 on the same week last year.
In Canberra there are 75 auctions expected compared to 84 last week and 64 this week last year.
In Perth 42 auctions are expected compared to 27 last week and 33 this week last year.
Across Australia the highest volume of auctions in one suburb are 16 in Mosman (NSW).
There are 312 auctions scheduled this week in Melbourne compared to 329 for the same time last year. Volumes are low due to the Labour Day long weekend. The highest volume of auctions in one suburb is the very popular Glen Waverley where 7 are scheduled.
The February Home Value Index results showed the dwelling prices rose at a greater rate over the last three months than any other capital city and rose slightly in the last month.
When viewed in conjunction with the strengthening auction market this data confirms the solid position intending sellers now find themselves.  This will also encourage a rise in listings over the next few months and provide buyers with good choice in April and May.
The clearance rate also rose compared to last year. In February a clearance rate of 74.2% was recorded from 3,452 auctions compared to 71.5% from 2,623 auctions a year ago.
In respect of the private sale market in the past week, on a citywide basis, the time on market results for houses sold at private sale fell to 43 days, down from 60 days in the previous week. Overall vendor discounting was up slightly to -5.5% from -5.4%.
Melbourne auction market Key data
<ul>
<li>Clearance rate week ending 1 March: 77.1%</li>
<li>Melbourne auctions expected week ending 8 March: 312</li>
<li>Melbourne private sales time on market week ending 1 March: 43 days (houses)</li>
<li>Melbourne vendor discounting market week ending 1 March: -5.5% (houses)</li>
</ul>
</body></html>

rlarocca-zWhvjay44N

Melbourne residential market provides highest growth over quarter: Robert Larocca

<html><body>
A preliminary weighted average clearance rate of 77.1% was recorded this week across capital cities compared to 77.3% last week and 74.2% this time last year.
<a href="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/20150302-Capital-City.jpg" rel="wp-prettyPhoto[g4335]"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-4336" src="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/20150302-Capital-City-580x432.jpg" alt="National auction results - Capital City" width="580" height="432"></a>
Following last weeks strong result this week’s result indicates the auction market is delivering healthy outcomes to sellers in increasing numbers.
In Sydney a preliminary clearance rate of 82.8% was recorded compared to 86.2% last week and 77.6% last year. This is the fourth consecutive week in excess of 80% making it the strongest capital city auction market in recent times. The Sydney auction market is in uncharted territory now.
<a href="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/20150302-Sydney.jpg" rel="wp-prettyPhoto[g4335]"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-4337" src="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/20150302-Sydney-580x388.jpg" alt="National auction results - Sydney" width="580" height="388"></a>
In Melbourne the preliminary clearance rate was 76.5%, compared to 75.8% last week and 76.6% this time last year. The Melbourne auction market is beginning to record numbers similar to autumn 2010, when high clearance rates and volumes translated into strong capital gains.
<a href="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/20150302-Melbourne.jpg" rel="wp-prettyPhoto[g4335]"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-4338" src="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/20150302-Melbourne-580x387.jpg" alt="National auction results - Melbourne" width="580" height="387"></a>
In Brisbane a preliminary clearance rate of 54.6% was recorded compared to 63.6% last week and 46.2% last year.
<a href="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/20150302-Brisbane.jpg" rel="wp-prettyPhoto[g4335]"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-4339" src="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/20150302-Brisbane-580x374.jpg" alt="National auction results - Brisbane" width="580" height="374"></a>
In Adelaide a preliminary clearance rate of 78.6% compared to 53.3% last week.
<a href="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/20150302-Adelaide.jpg" rel="wp-prettyPhoto[g4335]"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-4340" src="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/20150302-Adelaide-580x389.jpg" alt="National auction results - Adelaide" width="580" height="389"></a>
In Canberra the market is beginning to show levels of demand currently present in Sydney and Melbourne. A clearance rate of 81.6% was recorded compared to 72.4% last week.
In Perth a clearance rate of 40% was recorded compared to 46.4% last week and 55% last year.
</body></html>

Sydney auction market enters uncharted territory: Robert Larocca

<html><body>
Five years ago there were 3,335 homes sold for in excess of $1 million in Melbourne – not so surprising is that the top 10 sales were in the city’s most expensive addresses.
The top three, Brighton, Camberwell and Kew, saw 266, 162 and 157 houses sold for over a million dollars in 12 months. Remarkably, in the bayside suburb of Brighton, 109 of those were in excess of $2 million. Bay views command incredible sale prices due to their scarcity.
The remaining seven in the list are Toorak, Brighton East, Hawthorn, Malvern,Malvern East, Canterbury and Surry Hills.
Over the past year, the million-dollar list has changed and shows some interesting shifts in the market. Firstly, there are many more with 9,684 sales over a million. Secondly five of the top 10 are new.
Balwyn North, Glen Waverley, Glen Iris, Balwyn and Mount Waverley are newly into the list.
Balwyn and Balwyn North are not a surprise, along with neighbouring Mont Albert and Mont Albert North, they have seen the highest capital gains on an annualised basis over the past five years in Melbourne.
The most significant shift is found in Mount Waverley and Glen Waverley.  Between these, 442 houses sold for over a million dollars, 41 of those for over two million.
Both have seen increases in demand well in excess of the comparable suburbs to the north and south with buyers attracted by a range of factors from transport choices to schools.
<a href="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/melbourne-sales-million-dollar-table.jpg" rel="wp-prettyPhoto[g4285]"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4287" src="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/melbourne-sales-million-dollar-table.jpg" alt="Melbourne sales million dollar table" width="459" height="330"></a>
Key points
<ul>
<li>Over the past five years the number of million dollar homes sold has almost tripled;</li>
<li>Glen Waverley and Mount Waverley are in the top 10 and were not five years ago;</li>
<li>Nearly 10,000 homes have sold in the last year for more than $1 million.</li>
</ul>
There are 1,401 auctions scheduled this week in Melbourne compared to 1,334 for the same time last year.
This is the second week with over 1,000 auctions for the year and volumes at auctions have risen to a level that is similar to last year now. Once listings for private sale are taken into consideration there are fewer new homes on the market than a year ago. There were 1.8% fewer homes listed for sale in the past month than last year which suggests consumers are still approaching the market is caution.
In respect of the private sale market in the past week, on a citywide basis, the time on market results for houses sold at private sale fell to 60 days, down from 66 days in the previous week. Overall vendor discounting was up slightly to -5.4% from -5.1%.
Key data
<ul>
<li>Preliminary clearance rate week ending 22 February: 75.8%</li>
<li>Melbourne auctions expected week ending 1 March: 1,401</li>
<li>Melbourne private sales time on market week ending 22 February: 60 days (houses)</li>
<li>Melbourne vendor discounting market week ending 22 February: -5.4% (houses)</li>
<li>Listings being prepared for market are 0.7% higher in the month ending 22 February (seasonally adjusted)</li>
</ul>
</body></html>

Where are most of Melbourne’s million dollar homes sold? Weekend auction preview

<html><body>
A preliminary weighted average clearance rate of 77.7% was recorded this week across capital cities compared to 74% last week and 76.2% this time last year.
<a href="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/20150223-Capital-City.jpg" rel="wp-prettyPhoto[g4298]"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-4299" src="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/20150223-Capital-City-580x437.jpg" alt="National auctions - Capital City" width="580" height="437"></a>
At this stage this is the highest clearance rate recorded on a national level since September 2009.
Last week’s momentum has been carried into this week with solid demand evident in Sydney, Melbourne and Canberra. The interest rate cut is clearly having a beneficial impact.
In Sydney a preliminary clearance rate of 87.8% was recorded and this is higher than any other week in the past year. This is compared to 83.3% last week and 84.2% last year. This result is the sign of a strong market but not against the trend at this time last year.
<a href="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/20150223-Sydney.jpg" rel="wp-prettyPhoto[g4298]"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-4300" src="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/20150223-Sydney-580x397.jpg" alt="National auctions - Sydney" width="580" height="397"></a>
In Melbourne preliminary clearance rate was 74.9%, compared to 70.9% last week and 73.5% this time last year. The Melbourne auction market has lifted by around 15 points in the past two weeks.
<a href="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/20150223-Melbourne.jpg" rel="wp-prettyPhoto[g4298]"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-4301" src="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/20150223-Melbourne-580x394.jpg" alt="National auctions - Melbourne" width="580" height="394"></a>
In Brisbane a preliminary clearance rate of 68.9% was recorded compared to 49.5% last week.
<a href="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/20150223-Brisbane.jpg" rel="wp-prettyPhoto[g4298]"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-4302" src="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/20150223-Brisbane-580x373.jpg" alt="National auctions - Brisbane" width="580" height="373"></a>
In Adelaide a preliminary clearance rate of 55.2% compared to 69% last week.
<a href="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/20150223-Adelaide.jpg" rel="wp-prettyPhoto[g4298]"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-4303" src="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/20150223-Adelaide-580x392.jpg" alt="National auctions - Adelaide" width="580" height="392"></a>
In Canberra a clearance rate of 72.9% was recorded compared to 72.3% last week. This is the third week with a clearance rate in excess of 70% and means the Canberra auction market has had a stronger start than last year.
In Perth a clearance rate of 53.8% was recorded.
</body></html>

Interest rate cut is clearly having a beneficial impact to auction market: Robert Larocca

<html><body>
The trend of lower auction volumes in 2015 continues with 29% fewer homes on offer across capital cities this week. 
The low volumes appear to have contributed to strong rises in the clearance rate last week in both Sydney and Melbourne.
There are 2,497 auctions expected this week across Australia with 2,058 expected in capital cities. This is compared 1,541 last week and 2,905 for the same week last year.
In Sydney 775 auctions are expected compared to 662 last week and 1,101 this week last year. The clearance rate last week was the highest in a year and should encourage a few more vendors to list for sale as there is clearly strong demand from buyers.
In Melbourne 936 auctions are expected compared to 584 last week and 1,401 this week last year. The 10-point rise in the clearance rate last week is a sign of a healthy market and provides an indication that the interest rate cut has been welcomed by buyers.
There are 101 auctions expected in Brisbane compared to 118 last week and 161 this week last year.
This week there are 124 auctions expected in Adelaide compared to 91 last week and 118 on the same week last year.
In Canberra there are 77 auctions expected compared to 49 last week and 65 this week last year.
In Perth 30 auctions are expected compared to 26 last week and 49 this week last year.
Across Australia the highest volume of auctions in one suburb are 20 in Richmond (Vic). Of the 2,497 homes being auctioned 936 are listed as three bedrooms, 666 as four bedrooms and only 162 with five bedrooms.
Melbourne auction preview
There are 936 auctions scheduled this week in Melbourne compared to 1,401 for the same time last year. The highest volume of auctions will be in Richmond with 20 scheduled. There are 17 in Bentleigh East and St Kilda.
The Melbourne auction market is sending mixed messages at the moment, on one hand the clearance rate has risen to be closer to the trend rate for last year, when it was 68.2%. In contrast volumes are low suggesting that potential vendors are lacking the confidence shown last year.
It is also possible that vendors and their real estate agents are choosing private sale instead of auction as a method of sale. It won’t however be possible to ascertain if that is happening for a few months.
In respect of the private sale market in the past week, on a citywide basis, the time on market results for houses sold at private sale was 66 days, slightly up from 65 days in the previous week. Overall vendor discounting was up slightly to -5.2% from -5.1%.
Key data
<ul>
<li>Clearance rate week ending 15 February: 70.9%</li>
<li>Melbourne auctions expected week ending 22 February: 936</li>
<li>Melbourne private sales time on market week ending 15 February: 65 days (houses)</li>
<li>Melbourne vendor discounting market week ending 15 February: -5.2% (houses)</li>
<li>Listings being prepared for market are 3.5% lower in the month ending 15 February (seasonally adjusted)</li>
</ul>
</body></html>

Volumes continue to be low but clearance rate rises: Weekend auction preview

<html><body>
A preliminary weighted average clearance rate of 70% was recorded this week across capital cities compared to 67.3% last week and 70.2% this time last year.
<a href="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/20150216-Capital-City.jpg" rel="wp-prettyPhoto[g4273]"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-4274" src="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/20150216-Capital-City-580x431.jpg" alt="National auction review - Capital City" width="580" height="431"></a>
The market performed to recent trend this week and results between now and the Labour Day long weekend should provide a clearer indication as to the state of the auction market this year.
In Sydney a preliminary clearance rate of 77.9% recorded compared to 80.6% last week and 80.2% last year. The Sydney auction market has not shown any sign of weakness following the stand out year in 2014.
<a href="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/20150216-Sydney.jpg" rel="wp-prettyPhoto[g4273]"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-4275" src="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/20150216-Sydney-580x376.jpg" alt="National auction review - Sydney" width="580" height="376"></a>
In Melbourne the auction market improved following the lowest clearance rate in 26 months last week. The preliminary clearance rate was 67.4%, compared to 60.7% last week and 69.2% this time last year.
<a href="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/20150216-Melbourne.jpg" rel="wp-prettyPhoto[g4273]"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-4276" src="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/20150216-Melbourne-580x378.jpg" alt="National auction review - Melbourne" width="580" height="378"></a>
In Brisbane a preliminary clearance rate of 50.6% was recorded compared to 47.6% last week.
<a href="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/20150216-Brisbane.jpg" rel="wp-prettyPhoto[g4273]"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-4277" src="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/20150216-Brisbane-580x375.jpg" alt="National auction review - Brisbane" width="580" height="375"></a>
In Adelaide a preliminary clearance rate of 72% compared to 58.2% last week.
<a href="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/20150216-Adelaide.jpg" rel="wp-prettyPhoto[g4273]"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-4278" src="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/20150216-Adelaide-580x387.jpg" alt="National auction review - Adelaide" width="580" height="387"></a>
In Canberra a clearance rate of 72.2% was recorded compared to 67.9% last week.
In Perth a clearance rate of 33.3% was recorded.
</body></html>

National clearance rate of 70% recorded for the weekend: Robert Larocca

<html><body>
There are 506 auctions scheduled this week in Melbourne compared to 783 for the same time last year.
Auction volumes continue to be well below those recorded 12 months ago and last week saw the lowest clearance rate for 26 months.
Recent analysis from CoreLogic RP Data &amp; the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) shows that, once inflation is accounted for, Melbourne home values were not quite yet at a new peak.
The results showed that home values were 2.7% below the peak in September 2010; when the improvement in January is included home values will be very close to peak in real terms.
It’s also illustrative to compare the strength of the market in this cycle to the last in 2010. Values rose at just half the rate of pace in 2010 which has helped to underscore the more moderate market conditions and consumer conservatism.
The private sale market has also begun. On a citywide basis, the time on market results for houses sold at private sale was 65 days over the last week and vendor discounting was -5.1%.
Key data
<ul>
<li>Clearance rate week ending 8 February: 60.7%</li>
<li>Melbourne auctions expected week ending 15 February: 506</li>
<li>Melbourne private sales time on market week ending 8 February: 65 days (houses)</li>
<li>Melbourne vendor discounting market week ending 8 February: -5.1% (houses)</li>
<li>Listings being prepared for market are 9% lower in month ending 8 February (seasonally adjusted)</li>
</ul>
</body></html>

Melbourne auction market well down on last year: Robert Larocca

<html><body>
A preliminary weighted average clearance rate of 66.9% was recorded this week across capital cities compared to 61.6% last week and 68.2% this time last year.
<img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-4245" src="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/20150209-Capital-City-580x431.jpg" alt="Auction market review - Capital Cities" width="580" height="431">
This weeks result compares well to the 2014 market when an overall clearance rate of 67.8% was recorded. It also broadly reflects the moderate growth recorded in home values this year.
The positive impact of the rate cut will take a few weeks to be apparent on a national wide scale as volumes are still low. If the rate cut is to encourage a few more active buyers and sellers it will also take a few weeks to be obvious.
In Sydney a preliminary clearance rate of 80.5% recorded compared to 77.9% last week and 79.5% last year. Compared to last year this is near identical start.
<img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-4247" src="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/20150209-Sydney-580x396.jpg" alt="Auction market review - Sydney" width="580" height="396">
In Melbourne a preliminary clearance rate of 61.4% was recorded compared to 66.3% last week and 67.5% this time last year. It is still early but results so far make it interesting to see which way the market goes as the year has started with lower auction volumes and clearance rates.
<img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-4246" src="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/20150209-Melbourne-580x385.jpg" alt="Auction market review - Melbourne" width="580" height="385">
In Brisbane a preliminary clearance rate of 45.6% was recorded compared to 43.3% last week.
<img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-4244" src="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/20150209-Brisbane-580x390.jpg" alt="Auction market review - Brisbane" width="580" height="390">
In Adelaide a preliminary clearance rate of 61.1% compared to 52.7% last week.
<img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-4243" src="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/20150209-Adelaide-580x381.jpg" alt="Auction market review - Adelaide" width="580" height="381">
In Canberra a clearance rate of 62.8% was recorded compared to 72.7% last week, whilst for Perth a clearance rate of 35.7% was recorded.
</body></html>

No interest rate cut impact on auctions, yet: Robert Larocca

<html><body>
Residential dwelling values in Melbourne returned to trend in January with a 2.7% rise recorded by CoreLogic RP Data in the latest home value indices results.
This sets the Melbourne property market up for another stable year with moderate value increases likely, particularly in the detached house market. Melbourne home owners have seen stable growth in values for two years now and are more likely to record a profit when selling now.
House values in the city grew the strongest with a 2.8% rise compared to 1.7% for units. This takes the growth in values over 12 months to 7.5% for houses and 2.7% for units.
The rise in property values will be welcomed by vendors seeking to sell over the summer and in autumn as it suggests the poorer performance recorded in November and December last year was a consequence of high supply levels in spring and summer.
Demand is not limitless and there is still some caution from buyers.
Based on settled sales the median price of a house in the past three months was $613,000 and $480,000 for a unit.
The performance of the auction market provides little indication of the markets health due to the very low auction numbers in January and their geographic diversity. Volumes are likely to rise strongly over the next few weeks.
Melbourne continues to have the lowest rental yields in Australia with 3.2% for houses and 4.2% for units. This does not appear to have a negative impact on investors who are happy to wait for capital gains.
Melbourne’s ‘Mega suburbs’!
<ul>
<li>Reservoir is the largest suburb in Melbourne</li>
<li>Gilderoy is the smallest suburb in Melbourne</li>
<li>The are 12 suburbs in Melbourne with over 10,000 houses</li>
</ul>
<a href="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/glen-waverley-railway-station-300x199.jpg"></a>Most weeks when the highest volume of auctions are listed, the suburbs of Reservoir, Glen Waverly and Mount Waverly come out near the top.
Auctions may well be a popular method of sale in these suburbs but their appearance in the list is more likely due to the fact that they are three of Melbourne’s largest areas.
Melbourne’s progressive growth over the past 180 years has seen suburbs planned and developed in many different ways. Sometimes geography provides natural borders and sometimes the common ownership by one developer provided the impetus for the naming or borders. Sometimes names and borders have even moved.
As a result Melbourne suburbs vary from 13,741 houses in Reservoir to 18 in Gilderoy. At more than 67km from the CBD the small ‘suburb’ of Gilderoy is more representative of it being a town than a considered decision to create a small suburb.
There are 12 suburbs in total that have more than 10,000 houses. Each is bigger than medium-sized regional centres such as, Mildura, Shepparton and Warrnambool and without outlying suburbs.
Those 12 suburbs are Reservoir, Frankston, Glen Waverly, Berwick, St Albans, Pakenham, Point Cook, Werribee, Mount Waverly, Hoppers Crossing, Craigieburn and Sunbury. Interestingly many of those were once separate towns which have now expanded considerably as they have become more proximate to the cities outer edge. As many of those are still being developed they are likely to grow further.
The vagaries of place naming and suburb size become even more obvious when the case of Croydon is considered.  On its own, Croydon is a large but not massive suburb with 7,293 houses. But once neighbouring Croydon North, South and Hills are considered, its size grows to 12,446 houses.
When buying in larger suburbs it is therefore sensible to consider where specifically a home is as factors such as distance from a train station, park or school may vary considerably. The form of housing may vary as well.
Auction buyers to benefit from interest rate cuts
This week’s interest rate cut will provide a boost to the auction market over the coming month and deliver a welcome reprieve for buyers looking to reduce costs. Not only will buyers enjoy the increased purchasing power, sellers will welcome the unexpected boost to the market in the middle of their marketing campaigns.
This week, there are 1,218 auctions expected across Australia, with 824 of these scheduled for in capital cities. This is compared to 502 last week and 927 for the same week last year. The primary reason for lower auction volumes in capital cities is due to 36 per cent fewer auctions in Melbourne.
In Sydney 317 auctions are expected compared to 154 last week and 362 this week last year.
In Melbourne 214 auctions are expected compared to 102 last week and 335 this week last year. The main activity this week in Melbourne will be found in the eastern suburbs with 9 auctions in Mount Waverley and 8 in Glen Waverly. In Portarlington, near Geelong, there are also 9 auctions expected.
There are 99 auctions expected in Brisbane compared to 85 last week and 98 this week last year. This highest level of activity will be found outside Brisbane with 180 auctions scheduled across the rest of Queensland. For example, the most auctions in any one suburb in Queensland will be in Surfers Paradise where 9 are expected.
In Adelaide there are 86 auctions expected. This is slightly lower than the 102 last week but higher than the 70 on the same week last year.
In Canberra the volume of auctions is higher than last week and this time last year when there was 50. There are 69 expected this week.
In Perth 30 auctions are expected compared to 24 last week and 43 this week last year.
The highest volume of auctions will be in Port Macquarie (NSW) where 10 are expected.
 
</body></html>

Melbourne house owners on track for another year of growth: Robert Larocca

<html><body>
In many respects the Melbourne auction market last year was better than in 2013. 
Auction volumes rose 19.7% compared to last year, however the clearance rate fell a small degree from 69.2% to 68.4%.
While there is a great degree of interest in data associated with the auction market, what exactly should buyers be looking at to help inform their judgement?
Firstly, when undertaking market analysis it is important to get as much information as possible and understand the data in context, after all the sale of a new home means something different to the sale of an established one.
Auctions can provide a rich source of information, even if you are not bidding.
Auctions account for around one in five sales in capital cities and nearly one third in Melbourne.
With that in mind there are three important things for buyers to look at from auctions;
<ul>
<li>Number of Buyers:</li>
</ul>
The number of active buyers is a slice of the people you are competing against in a given area. If you go to enough open houses and auctions you will get a feel about how strong demand is in an area and that will affect the price you need to pay..
<ul>
<li>
Sale Price (or passed in amount):
</li>
</ul>
Buyers will be able to compare the sale prices with their expectations of price, even if it is passed in. This information will help you make informed judgments about the market when bidding on the home you want. You can then see this data the day after, however it’s far better to turn up and see it live.
<ul>
<li>
Local Auction Conduct:
</li>
</ul>
Auctions can be a high-pressure event, as a result the more you attend the more used to the process you will get which in turn will help you stick to your budget and strategy. Attending auctions in the area you aim to buy in will allow you to become acquainted with the styles of different auctioneers and the level of competition in the area.
Key facts
<ul>
<li>Attendence at auctions important for buyer research</li>
<li>Clearance Rates – in 2014 these fell to 68.4%</li>
<li>Auctions increased to take advantage of rising market</li>
</ul>
January has seen a fairly typical commencement to the auction market with only 419 auctions held. The market moves up a notch this week with 800 expected across Australia and 391 in capital cities.
The volume of auctions in capital cities should rise to exceed 1,000 in the middle of February, as most real estate agents need to allow a reasonable marketing period for the property.
It is also fairly typical to see the majority of auctions outside the capital cities and that is the case this week.
The highest volume of auctions is expected in Adelaide with 97. There are 94 expected in Sydney, 80 in Melbourne, 24 in Perth and 21 in Canberra.
Before the auction market increases significantly in volume it is useful to reflect on how 2014 ended. On a national basis there 101,444 auctions held in capital cities, the first time ever the volume has exceeded 100,000.
Melbourne had the most auctions with 44,089 and just exceeded Sydney for the most sold. The most significant shift in 2014 was the growth in the Sydney auction market. If this is sustained this year it will be difficult for Melbourne to retain the title of the “auction capital”.
The highest clearance rate for 2014, 74%, was recorded in Sydney.
<a href="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/2015-01-29-capital-Low-volume-of-auctions-this-week.jpg" rel="wp-prettyPhoto[g4230]"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4231" src="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/2015-01-29-capital-Low-volume-of-auctions-this-week.jpg" alt="Capital Low volume of auctions this week - CoreLogic RP Data blog" width="604" height="304"></a>
</body></html>

How buyers can use auction results to be better buyers: CoreLogic's weekend auction preview

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/s-p-setia">SP Setia</a> has lodged plans for a $750 million, three-tower mixed-use precinct that would complete the long-running redevelopment of Carlton's former Carlton United Breweries site.

The proposal at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/185-195-queensberry-street-carlton-vic-3053">46-78 Bouverie Street and 185-195 Queensberry Street</a> spans a 6,468 sqm site, the last remaining undeveloped parcels within the former brewery's 2007 masterplan.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">COX Architecture</a>, the development will comprise two purpose-built student accommodation towers and a third build-to-sell apartment tower above a shared commercial podium and basement.

Across the three towers, SP Setia is proposing 606 build-to-sell apartments and 1,499 student accommodation units containing 2,009 beds.

The apartments will sit in the tallest tower, which will rise nearly 200m and 55 storeys. It will become&nbsp;one of the more substantial new build-to-sell apartment projects at the northern edge of Melbourne's CBD.

The apartment mix is weighted toward smaller inner-city product, with 188 studios, 206 one-bedroom apartments, 192 two-bedroom apartments and 20 three-bedroom apartments

<img alt="First look: SP Setia plans three-tower finale for Carlton’s former CUB precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8271bc87-1b0a-41b7-ac73-a425ee375261" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/3_2.png?VersionId=G4lw23o90B1boX4k4dj7rdz2ZEajS9wy" />

Part of the precinct will be a large-scale&nbsp;3,684 sqm supermarket and a further 2,198 sqm of speciality retail, creating close to 5,900 sqm of new commercial space within the precinct.

But one of the biggest components of the proposal is what sits between the buildings.

Around 4,650 sqm, or roughly 72 per cent of the site, will be publicly accessible open space, incorporating plazas, pedestrian connections, landscaped laneways and retail spill-out areas.

The ground plane is intended to finally complete pedestrian connections envisaged when the CUB masterplan was first approved nearly two decades ago, stitching together Victoria Street, Queensberry Street, Bouverie Street and Swanston Street through the former brewery precinct.

Urbis said the development would "complete the CUB precinct", with the public realm providing important north-south and east-west connections through what is currently the final undeveloped portion of the masterplanned site.

SP Setia is also exploring a new linear park within the Bouverie Street road reserve, with the concept to be developed further with the City of Melbourne through the planning process.

The proposal is being pursued through the Victorian Government's Development Facilitation Program under Clause 53.23 for significant residential development with affordable housing.

The planning report acknowledges the proposed heights exceed those contemplated under the original Comprehensive Development Plan and masterplan, but argues the built-form context has changed considerably over the past two decades.

Urbis said the three towers would instead create a stepped transition between Carlton and the Hoddle Grid, rising progressively from the 94.1-metre Tower One along the Queensberry Street edge to the 199.44-metre Tower Three closer to the established CBD-scale buildings to the south.

<img alt="SP Setia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e885a07a-592c-40fc-bf82-e6dbaf32da54" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-21%20at%208.52.24%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=7s_ErUkSKAdY1mAWp3GRZgMNCGtwhk5m" />

SP Setia plans to deliver the development across three stages.

Stage One would deliver the basement, podium and retail areas for the entire precinct alongside the first student tower. Tower Two would follow in Stage Two, before the 606-apartment Tower Three is delivered as the final stage.

If approved and delivered, the project would close out a redevelopment process that has been underway since the former brewery masterplan was approved in 2007, adding more than 2,600 student beds and apartments to a precinct already home to Swanston Central, the Barak Building, RMIT Design Hub and several large student accommodation developments.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Joel Robinson

SP Setia plans three-tower finale for Carlton’s former CUB precinct

Melbourne developer Lowe Living is seeking to add to its growing bayside apartment pipeline, filing plans for a boutique eight-residence development in tightly held Middle Park.

Lowe Living, which has built much of its development portfolio across Melbourne's affluent bayside and south-east suburbs, is behind the plans for the 730 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/123-125-erskine-street-middle-park-vic-3206">123-125 Erskine Street</a>, just off Armstrong Street and within the Armstrong Street Neighbourhood Activity Centre.

The developer is seeking approval for a five-storey residential building above two basement levels, with just eight large-format apartments and 18 car spaces.

“This is a deliberately very different proposition for us,"&nbsp;Tim Lowe, Co-Founder of Lowe Living, said.

"Eight residences is exceptionally boutique, but that's precisely what this site calls for.

“There is a strong community in Middle Park and the surrounding suburbs who have spent decades building a life here. They no longer want the maintenance of a large period home, but they aren't prepared to compromise on space, quality or location. We think there is a real opportunity to capture that hyper local market. A site like this rarely comes to market.”

<img alt="Lowe " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="875fe572-0f14-4d90-9e11-55b28dd07731" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-21%20at%208.42.49%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=GDNQRv9BfpR9r1zkZ5UDyUM4ZvpIksut" />

The low-density proposal has been designed by Cera Stribley and is being progressed through the Victorian Government's Great Design Fast Track pathway, having already secured eligibility from the Minister for Planning.

The Office of the Victorian Government Architect supported its eligibility after finding the proposal demonstrated consistency with the program's seven design principles, while the project's financial feasibility has also been independently confirmed by Invest Victoria.

The project is targeting the downsizer market, with the planning documents describing the homes as larger-format residences and noting the two penthouses could otherwise have been configured as four separate apartments.

<img alt="Lowe 2" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="60ab0987-2da6-4175-adac-315dcf6053c6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-21%20at%208.43.15%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=bOCPH0B2MFwlmaRW.TTCF9TzyifgVoQI" />

The site has dual frontage to Erskine Street and Canterbury Place and currently comprises a collection of commercial buildings used as offices, including a former heritage bakehouse, a former stable, a later gabled addition and a central courtyard.

It sits within the Commercial 1 Zone and the Armstrong Street Commercial Precinct heritage overlay, with the existing property classified as a contributory heritage place.

Heritage has subsequently played a significant role in Cera Stribley's design.

The front section of the former bakehouse facing Erskine Street will be retained, including its return walls, street-facing hipped roof and chimneys, while the Erskine Street façade and part of the western return wall of the former stable will also be incorporated into the new development.

Levels four and five will be set back five metres from the retained stable façade, while bricks removed through demolition are proposed to be salvaged and reused within the new building where possible.

<img alt="Lowe 3" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e97927a9-a2de-4a0f-83b6-65451238abfa" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-21%20at%208.43.06%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=VR44AChLrX9q1XPB9GvVQV.ALXXbe4gC" />

Rather than presenting as a single five-storey building to Erskine Street, Cera Stribley has broken the development into a series of distinct forms.

A three-storey infill element will sit between the retained bakehouse and stable façades, with the upper levels recessed behind the heritage fabric. Canterbury Place will similarly feature two three-storey podium forms, separated by a central pedestrian accessway, before the upper two levels step back from the street.

A pedestrian through-link will run through the centre of the project between Erskine Street and Canterbury Place, creating entrances from both sides of the site and introducing landscaping and communal areas through the ground plane.

Landscape architect Acre has designed planting across the ground level, private terraces and upper levels, including a feature canopy tree at level three and integrated planting and arbours across the level four terraces. Five existing Erskine Street trees are proposed to be retained.

Sustainability is also a significant component of the Great Design Fast Track application. The apartments are targeting an average eight-star NatHERS rating, with no residence below 6.5 stars, while the project has achieved a 75 per cent BESS score. Seven of the eight apartments are designed for cross-ventilation, with the remaining residence using mechanically assisted natural ventilation.

The plans also incorporate an 8kWp rooftop solar system, a 5,000-litre rainwater tank and infrastructure allowing future electric vehicle charging for every residence.

Lowe has a strong portfolio across Melbourne's blue-chip suburbs. They recently launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/jardin-house-by-lowe-living-camberwell-335-camberwell-road-camberwell-vic-3124">Jardin House by Lowe Living</a> in Camberwell, their first development in the Stonnington LGA.

Lowe Living unveils Middle Park apartment development

Article summary

<ul data-end="888" data-start="289">
	<li data-end="442" data-section-id="8tsh6o" data-start="289">DVB Projects is preparing to launch its second Gold Coast apartment development, with demolition now underway at 137 Old Burleigh Road, Broadbeach.</li>
	<li data-end="573" data-section-id="1nyxl3e" data-start="443">The 34-level tower will comprise just 49 ultra-luxury residences, including half-floor, full-floor and penthouse apartments.</li>
	<li data-end="717" data-section-id="oiyimj" data-start="574">The launch follows strong demand at DVB's nearby Sea Glass project, which is more than 50 per cent sold and currently under construction.</li>
	<li data-end="888" data-section-id="epk9o9" data-start="718">The development adds to the transformation of Old Burleigh Road, with premium beachfront apartment projects continuing to reshape the tightly held Broadbeach strip.</li>
</ul>

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/dvb-projects">DVB Projects</a> is preparing to launch its second Gold Coast apartment development, with demolition now underway on the Broadbeach site as the Sydney developer moves closer to bringing the ultra-luxury project to market.

The 34-level tower at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/137-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach-qld-4218">137 Old Burleigh Road</a> will comprise just 49 residences, ranging from half-floor apartments through to full-floor homes and a penthouse. The launch follows the strong sales performance of DVB's nearby Sea Glass development. More than half of the apartments at Sea Glass, on the other side of Broadbeach, have been snapped up, well ahead of its late 2027 completion

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2944b4be-c84e-4b54-8dc1-c712e76704c0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/E02_Exterior_Street%20Level%20Entrance.jpg?VersionId=YoNig7pRdrE3HCue7sUj78LzJteeQf3H" />

The start of demolition at 137 Old Burleigh Road signals DVB Projects’ underlying confidence in the Gold Coast’s luxury beachside apartment sector.

“We see the Gold Coast as one of the most compelling lifestyle markets in Australia, particularly at the premium end where demand continues to deepen,” said Dean Brown, Managing Director of DVB.&nbsp;

“This project has been carefully designed to respond to that demand - delivering large-format residences with a level of quality, privacy and amenity that is still relatively rare in the apartment market on the beachside."

Brown says the site itself is "exceptional."

"Old Burleigh Road is one of the most tightly held beachfront strips, and opportunities to deliver a project of this scale and calibre in this location are extremely limited.”

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="398f377a-c037-455e-9250-0c5e0d84c35b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/I12_FF%20Balcony.jpg?VersionId=NwOiRWGMubR1c8wthuEfggklcja7al9." />

The project will comprise 40 half-floor residences of approximately 260 sqm, alongside eight full-floor residences spanning around 524 sqm.

A single penthouse will crown the building, featuring a private pool, barbecue area, indoor gym and dedicated entertaining spaces.

Residents will have access to a resort-style suite of amenities, including a 20-metre pool with daybeds, a gymnasium, hot and cold plunge pools, a sauna, and private residents’ lounge and dining facilities.

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d1642bb0-9a66-4427-a022-dfc0988c6287" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/A02_Pool%20to%20View.jpg?VersionId=c0IXPyn_Gp_Kn3XCwzMrqIVkAdCEwVXP" />

Sales agent Todd Matheson, of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/pezet-matheson">Pezet Matheson</a>, which is marketing both 137 Old Burleigh Road and Sea Glass, said 137 Old Burleigh Road would address a clear gap in the market for genuine luxury products.

“There are very few opportunities on the Gold Coast where buyers can secure a residence of this size and quality in a new building,” Matheson said.

“What we’re seeing is a growing cohort of downsizers and interstate buyers who still want space - they’re not willing to compromise on living area, entertaining or finishes.

“This project has been designed with that buyer in mind. It offers the scale of a home, combined with the convenience and security of apartment living, in one of the coast’s most desirable positions.”

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="59aae0ca-5639-4320-8aca-d0bf60f48e43" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/E01_Exterior%20Hero.jpg?VersionId=DS8Zfy2WtgUEtdfe0TEUuf1W1GfcZq8S" />

Located on a 1,156 sqm site one block from the beachfront, the development will replace an ageing walk-up building and is expected to contribute to the ongoing transformation of the Old Burleigh Road strip into one of the Gold Coast’s most prestigious residential corridors.

With the development moving into the delivery phase, 137 Old Burleigh Road is slated to hit the market later this year.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=145141]

DVB Projects to launch second Broadbeach apartment tower as demolition commences

<a data-end="327" data-is-only-node="" data-start="250" href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/norus-projects" rel="noopener" target="_new">Norus Developments</a> has lodged plans for a new apartment development in Clayton that would add further momentum to the suburb's emerging Green Street corridor.

Plans have been lodged for the consolidated site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/1359-1365-centre-road-clayton-vic-3168">1359-1365 Centre Road</a>, where Norus is seeking approval for 218 apartments across a 12-storey apartment building designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/life-architecture-and-urban-design">Life Architecture</a>.

The proposal sits within the Clayton Major Activity Centre at the threshold of the planned Green Street corridor, a landscaped pedestrian connection intended to improve links through the precinct towards Clayton Railway Station.

The development would replace the site's existing collection of low-scale residential and commercial buildings with a single consolidated building, introducing significantly greater housing density to this part of Centre Road.

A retail tenancy is proposed at ground level to activate the Centre Road frontage, accompanied by transparent street interfaces and landscaping intended to create a more pedestrian-focused edge to the development.

<img alt="First look: Norus Developments plans landscape-led apartment project for Clayton’s emerging Green Street" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0a5a763a-d9e9-4253-af2f-88008de27ebf" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Clayton%20a.png?VersionId=S2WJJbat1XVkZwB9SnYtygirXgWHiklX" />

The building has been designed with stepped massing and upper-level setbacks to manage its transition towards surrounding residential properties. The planning report describes the approach as one that integrates the building into the landscape rather than treating landscaping as a secondary element.

"A strong landscape and public realm strategy underpins the proposal," Urbis states in the planning report.

"Public benefits include an affordable housing contribution, a new pocket park, generous landscaped setbacks, deep soil planting and integrated Water Sensitive Urban Design."

The report adds that these elements are intended to create "a permeable, pedestrian-focused ground plane that enhances walkability, supports urban cooling and reinforces the emerging Green Street character."

Biophilic and passive design principles extend through the residential levels, with planting, daylight, natural ventilation and views towards landscaped areas forming part of the amenity strategy.

Parking would be concentrated away from the public realm, with 145 car spaces proposed from the rear laneway rather than dominating the Centre Road frontage.

The proposal follows an extensive pre-application process with the City of Monash. Three formal meetings were held between the project team and Council from December 2025 to March 2026, with the scheme evolving through several concept iterations before the current design was lodged.

The project arrives as Clayton prepares for substantial change around its established activity centre and the wider Suburban Rail Loop precinct. Its position on Centre Road places the development within an existing concentration of shops, services and public transport, while the Green Street connection is intended to strengthen pedestrian access towards Clayton Railway Station.

First look: Norus plans landscape-led apartment project for Clayton’s emerging Green Street

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gardner-vaughan-group">Gardner Vaughan Group</a> has officially commenced construction on Bronze on Chevron, celebrating the sod turning of its first-ever Gold Coast development and marking a significant milestone in the company's continued expansion across South East Queensland.&nbsp;

Following the successful delivery of premium residential developments throughout Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/bronze-on-chevron-8-mawarra-street-chevron-island-qld-4217">Bronze on Chevron</a> represents Gardner Vaughan Group's entry into the Gold Coast market. Bronze will deliver 119 one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments above two ground-level retail tenancies.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107520 project_image_fid=367193]

The recent sod turning ceremony was attended by Deputy Mayor Mark Hammel, President of the Surfers Paradise Surf Life Saving Club, Cassandra Sedgman, project consultants, purchasers, project partners and invited guests to celebrate the commencement of construction.&nbsp;

Gardner Vaughan Group Chief Executive Officer Simon Betteridge said Bronze on Chevron represented an exciting new chapter for the business.&nbsp;

"We've spent almost four decades building homes that respond to the way people want to live, and we're excited to bring that experience to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/chevron-island-qld-4217">Chevron Island</a>," Betteridge said.

"Bronze on Chevron is particularly significant because it marks Gardner Vaughan Group's first development on the Gold Coast following many successful projects across Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107520 project_image_fid=367183]

Betteridge said the ground breaking is a proud moment for the&nbsp;team and their purchasers, who can now see their future homes beginning to take shape.&nbsp;

"As both developer and builder, we're able to oversee every aspect of the project from design through to construction, ensuring the quality and attention to detail Gardner Vaughan Group has become renowned for."&nbsp;

Designed by acclaimed architectural practice <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cottee-parker-architects">Cottee Parker</a>, Bronze on Chevron has been thoughtfully designed to complement Chevron Island's evolving streetscape while embracing its relaxed coastal lifestyle.

The development will offer generous residences with refined interiors, premium finishes and resort-style amenities, with completion anticipated in early 2029.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=107520]

The development will offer generous residences with refined interiors, premium finishes and resort-style amenities, with completion anticipated in early 2029

Robert Larocca

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News