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Townsville’s top end eye candy property is a relatively shallow market with the majority of prestige stock falling within the $1 million to $2.5 million price range, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
The report notes these swoon-inducing properties typically offer elevated aspects and ocean views with well above average levels of accommodation and fit out.
Improvements include features such as pools, architectural design and good outdoor living areas, along with extensive main living areas.
"To date in 2019 the highest settled residential sale recorded was for a property located on Castle Hill, which transacted for just over $1.5 million," the valuation firm said. 
The architecturally designed property at<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-qld-castle+hill-130817450" target="_blank"> 37 Yarrawonga Drive</a> (pictured below) offers sweeping views over Cleveland Bay and comprises five bedrooms, three bathrooms and an inground pool.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/11/27/castle%20hill%202.jpg" alt="">
There are currently a number of properties listed on the market with asking prices over $1.5 million within the North Ward and Castle Hill areas along with some located on Magnetic Island, the report noted. 
"An exceptionally large architecturally designed house in Annandale comprising six bedrooms and five bathrooms with views over the Ross River is currently on the market with an asking price of $2.4 million negotiable," the valuation firm said. 
The property at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-annandale-131869598" target="_blank">3 Fairlight Crescent</a> (pictured below) is built over three levels with a reported total floor area of over 900 square metre including four-car accommodation, pool, theatre, lift, C-bus electrical system and self- contained living to the lower level.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/11/27/annandale.jpg" alt="">
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Townsville sees shallow top end property market: HTW residential 

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The residential market in the Gladstone region has stabilised over recent years after a very volatile patch, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
The HTW report notes since the beginning of the year there has been limited sales activity of homes on standard residential lots over the $600,000 price point and unit sale prices top out at just over $200,000.
The city of Gladstone is the largest multi- commodity shipping port in Queensland so as a consequence most eye-candy property in the region takes advantage of water views.
"Tannum Sands and Boyne Island are two localities situated on the coast to the south of central Gladstone and seem to have the majority of 2019 residential home sales at the upper end of the market.
"One property worthy of note in this location is<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-qld-tannum+sands-128720926" target="_blank"> 5 Di Street, Tannum Sands </a>(pictured below) which has frontage to the Boyne River and sold in July 2019 for $750,000," the valuation firm said. 
The property offers uninterrupted river views from a two storey, four-bedroom, three- bathroom modern home with an inground pool.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/11/25/5%20di%20st%202.jpg" alt="">
"When considering eye-candy residential property in Gladstone, it is difficult to go past 2 Parksville Drive, New Auckland," the valuation firm said. 
This modern resort style home won the CQ Master Builders Housing and Construction Awards 2013 for best individual home and swimming pool, outdoor living and landscaping prizes.
Owned by a local builder, the property sold for $1.04 million in May 2019.
Located on a 2,806 square metre block, the architecturally designed home offers four bedrooms, three bathrooms, state of the art kitchen, butler’s pantry, sound proof media room, relaxing urban views over the L-shaped pool and a 165 square metre shed with kitchen, bathroom and mezzanine floor.
The report notes 2019 prestigious unit sales only include a luxurious penthouse apartment in the Aspex complex which sold in April 2019 for $810,000. This is a significant reduction from the previous sale in 2011 at $1.4 million.
The modern apartment offers 302 square metres with four bedrooms, three bathrooms and a sky terrace with views of Auckland Creek Inlet and the Gladstone Marina.
The top end price listing has to be 6 Cormorant Close, South Gladstone (pictured below) with a list price of offers over $1.4 million.
The property has been on the market since May 2019 and is significantly discounted from its previous sale price in 2015 of $1.84 million.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/11/25/6%20cormorant%20close.jpg" alt="">
Having a land area of 1,151 square metres, this architecturally designed home offers six bedrooms and three bathrooms over six different levels and three outside entertaining areas.
An L-shaped pool including 12.5 metre lap pool and waterfall blade is also a feature.
Boasting ocean and bush views the home also offers a custom designed art room with 100-year-old recycled timber flooring, gymnasium, wine cellar and mud room.
Internal size is advertised as 672 square metres.
"You had me at wine cellar!" the valuation firm commented. 
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Most eye-candy properties in Gladstone take advantage of water views: HTW residential 

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Whilst other market segments in Toowoomba have been soft in recent times, the prestige sector has been performing strongly, particularly in East Toowoomba, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
The report notes the prestige market for $1 million-plus properties continues to show signs of strong interest and sales results, but is limited in supply.
An analysis of all house sales recorded in the Toowoomba Regional Council area during 2018 reveals only 7.5% made the $1 million plus price point.
"Prestige units exceeding $500,000 are also proving more desirable than previously, with retirees showing a preference for lower maintenance properties in prestige locations," the valuation firm said. 
The report notes suburbs encompassing the prestige sector include Middle Ridge, Rangeville, Redwood, Prince Henry Heights, Mount Lofty and the stand out performer, East Toowoomba.
These suburbs are located on the eastern escarpment of Toowoomba, enjoying large lots and valley views as well as being within many of Toowoomba’s private school catchment areas.
"The typical prestige property comprises open plan, four-plus bedrooms, two to three bathrooms and multiple floor levels on large lots.
"They are generally large, extensively renovated or extended older timber and brick dwellings and modern architectural homes with detailed finishes, quality landscaping and some with escarpment views," the valuation firm added. 
Below are some examples of the higher priced sales in the region in 2019, the HTW report noted. 
The property at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-qld-east+toowoomba-129307970" target="_blank">3 Arthur Street, East Toowoomba </a>(pictured above) sold for $2.35 million in February.
Situated on a 3,338 square metre block, the property comprises Six bedroom, three bathroom, and four-car garage.
It features a tennis court, swimming pool, granny flat and multiple living areas.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/11/27/15%20kara%20view%20court.jpeg" alt="">
The property at 15-17 Kara View Court, Rangeville (pictured above) sold for $2.025 million in March.
The dwelling is situated on a 4,000 square metre lot facing north with valley views.
It comprises four bedrooms, two bathrooms and a two-car garage.
Other features include a tennis court, swimming pool and multiple living areas.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/11/27/14%2016%20cottesloe%20st.jpg" alt="">
This unit at<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-unit-qld-east+toowoomba-130677022" target="_blank"> 23/14-16 Cottesloe Street, East Toowoomba</a> (pictured above) is situated on the tenth floor of Cottesloe Crest with a north to east aspect and extensive rangeside views.
The unit comprises four bedrooms, two bathrooms and two basement car parks with approximately 178 square metres of living area and 29 square metres of outdoor area.
The unit sold for $900,000 in March 2019.
There are a handful of current listings above $1 million in the Toowoomba region. The higher priced properties are listed below:
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56 Spring Street, Middle Ridge- $1.99 million asking price.
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10 Golf Course Drive, Middle Ridge- $2.25 million asking price.
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12 Mayes Street, East Toowoomba– Interest from $2.75 million (under offer).
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Toowoomba prestige market performing strongly: HTW residential 

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The Rockhampton region has been spoilt for choice with a number of quality homes selling throughout the year, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
"This isn’t always the case for our local markets so it has been a very exciting year!" the valuation firm said. 
"Rockhampton itself has seen our long-standing price ceiling of $1.5 million smashed this year with the sale of <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-qld-the+range-130497642" target="_blank">50 Agnes Street, The Range</a> (pictured above)."
This property was set to go to auction back in March however sold prior to, with a number of serious offers received prior to the day.
The eventual sale price was just shy of $1.8 million.
This property is positioned on the top of The Range, a highly desirable residential locality among families and investors alike.
It is a modern home of grand proportions with top quality fitout, on a larger than average 2,462 square metre well landscaped allotment with pool, pool house and tennis court just some of the stand out features.
"The Capricorn Coast has also had some premium sales throughout the year, albeit less volume than 2018," the valuation firm said. 
A rural residential property on two hectares with elevation high above Mulambin Beach is currently under contract for well in excess of $1 million.
This property attracted multiple offers over a relatively short marketing period, highlighting that there is still demand for well- established property with quality views at the upper price points.
"To a lesser extent, our rural residential markets also provided some interesting sales throughout the year with a current contract of a modern home on an acre allotment on the northern fringe of Rockhampton reaching $900,000," the valuation firm said. 
This property has a generously proportioned modern home with pool and large shed.
"Regionally, there is typically very little by way of premium rental properties or units with most executive rentals topping out at around $550 to $600 per week," the valuation firm continued. 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/11/27/27%20island%20view%20crescent.jpg" alt="">
"If one were chasing a sea change, <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-barlows+hill-130681486" target="_blank">27 Island View Crescent at Barlows Hill</a> (pictured above) has on offer, for $1.95 million, an architect designed, multi-level home of a reported 1,000 square metres of living area!" 
Expansive ocean views are on offer, together with six bedrooms, opulent master suite, soundproof media room, C-Bus lighting system, wet edge pool, library and dumbwaiter.
"North Rockhampton has a select few areas which spark the curiosity of the marketplace," the valuation firm stated. 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/11/27/29%20murlay%20avenue.jpg" alt="">
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-frenchville-131985306" target="_blank">29 Murlay Avenue</a> (pictured above) has recently been listed for sale at $985,000. Once again, this is a spacious, multi- level home, with the main feature here being the quality views back over the city of Rockhampton and the Fitzroy River.
"The property has a unique appeal to the entertainers out there," the valuation firm commented. 
Back over to The Range and just over the road from the record-breaking sale at 50 Agnes Street, number 51 Agnes Street is a listing to watch.
Having recently undergone a complete transformation after being purchased for $460,000 just over 12 months ago, it is now offered to the market at $945,000 with high quality fitout and immaculate presentation and styling.
"One of our more unique listings of late has been a seven hectare absolute river front property on the fringe of suburban North Rockhampton at 352 Lakes Creek Road, Koongal.
"The property is unique not only for its river frontage, but also due to its combination of improvements including a residence, a set of four flats, stables and large shed." 
This one of a kind property was taken to auction in May, before being priced to sell at $1.25 million.
The site is partly flood affected and has been zoned Waterfront and Marine Industry.
"This property has no recent sales history and is without comparison, so it will be an interesting property to analyse once sold." 
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Rockhampton sees a number of quality home sales: HTW residential 

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The past year has been a relatively quiet one for high priced properties in a region that has its fair share of prestige properties given the extensive coastlines and magnificent ocean views, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
The report notes the region in the past five years regularly achieved residential sales upwards of $3 million, however 2019 has been a quiet one.
"It’s probably a good indicator of the subdued state of the top end of the market that there have been so few sales," the valuation firm said. 
A couple of sales which were notable in the past 12 months are:
The report at 2/28 Ella Gladstone Drive, Eagle Bay (pictured below) was sold for $2.8 million in June. 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/11/27/28%20ella%20galdstone%20drive.jpg" alt="">
This is a circa 2011, two storey, four bedroom, two bathroom, architect designed dwelling which has been finished to a very high standard and includes quality fitout and a below ground pool.
The property is located at the end of a cul-de-sac on a 916 square metre elevated site and has very good ocean views.
"Eagle Bay is a salubrious locality and comprises many high quality homes many of which have views of the ocean and bay. This property ticks all the right boxes," the valuation firm commented. 
The property at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-wa-naturaliste-130138482" target="_blank">15 Duckworth Place, Naturaliste </a>(pictured below) was sold for $2.3 million in January. 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/11/27/15%20duckworth%20place.jpg" alt="">
This property comprises a circa 2000, single level, four bedroom, two bathroom, architect designed dwelling with rammed earth and timber walls.
The property has many features including a 14 metre high ceiling and has been finished to a very high standard with a top quality fitout.
It is located on Mount Duckworth which is situated between Dunsborough and Yallingup on a moderately sloping elevated rural residential lot which has a land area of 4.3 hectares.
The elevated location of the house gives it excellent panoramic views of the coastal plain and distant ocean views of Geographe Bay.
Listings
In terms of listings, it would be hard to go past the property at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-wa-eagle+bay-132010658" target="_blank">7 Picquet Close, Eagle Bay</a> (pictured below).
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/11/27/7%20picquet%20close.jpg" alt="">
It is a 2003 built two-storey limestone dwelling with three bedrooms and two bathrooms and is situated on a 2,243 square metre elevated site and has absolute beach front to Eagle Bay.
"The very private house has been finished to a high standard however it is the fact that is has ocean views from almost every window and that you could stand on the back deck and almost reach out and touch the whales as they pass by that makes this property stand out.
"Be prepared to put your hand in your pocket though - it doesn’t currently have an asking price and is asking for offers," the valuation firm said.
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A quiet year for South West WA prestige market: HTW residential 

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The top end of the market in the Illawarra has seen usual market activity throughout 2019, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
The report notes whilst there has been lower demand than during the peak period in previous years, the top end hasn’t been quite as dramatic as the sub-$1 million properties.
High end sales include dwellings for $4.1 million in Wombarra, $3.2 million and $3.8 million in Bulli and a rural residential property just out of Berry for $5.4 million.
A Wollongong unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-apartment-nsw-wollongong-128254826" target="_blank">2/68 Cliff Road</a> (pictured below) sold for $3,225,000.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/11/18/wollongong%201.jpg" alt="" style="font-size: 12.16px;">
"One of the more extraordinary sales in 2019 was a $2.7 million property in Dapto," the valuation firm noted. 
The house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-dapto-130584238" target="_blank">46-48 Carlyle Close </a>(pictured below) was built in 2018 and is approximately 475 square metres in size, featuring six bedrooms and three bathrooms all on 2,974 square metres of land.
The home site is elevated and has district and escarpment views and the grounds are extensively landscaped and retained with self-irrigating gardens, a wet-edge pool with spa and garaging for six cars.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/11/18/dapto.jpg" alt="">
"By far a record price in Dapto, it is not expected that there would be any more expensive properties in this area let alone any that have hit the market recently," the valuation firm commented. 
Top-end properties vary depending on their type however most have a high quality level of fitout, substantial size and a significant view.
Vast ancillary improvements need to complement the dwelling itself. These highlights show that there has been decent trading in the upper bracket.
Buyers have still been willing to pay a decent price if they are getting something unique and special.
A search of realestate.com.au for properties in the region currently for sale over $4 million lists a number of development sites along with a penthouse with rooftop pool and private lift in Gerringong, an ocean front house on a double block in Bulli and two rural residential properties in Kangaroo Valley.
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Illawarra prestige market remains stable: HTW residential 

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A Sydney real estate agent is being questioned by police in China after allegedly fleeing the city with his two sons before his wife was found dead in a freezer.
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<div class="s">It is understood the 36-year-old Haoling Luo had been living in Australia since 2010 before moving to Pymble with his wife and sons in 2016.</div>
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<div class="s">He paid $906,000 for the two bedroom apartment in the 2008 built Arboria complex (top).</div>
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<div class="s">Luo received his real estate licence in mid-2018 and was selling houses in the Upper North Shore.</div>
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<div class="s">Neighbours said on Sunday night they heard an argument in which furniture was being thrown, the ABC reported.</div>
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<div class="s">The body was found on Wednesday, the day after Luo fled to China with the couple's two kids.</div>
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Sydney real estate agent questioned by police in China after wife found dead in a freezer

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The listing volumes of homes for sale remained subdued, which restricted the potential for any big lift in earnings at the publicly listed McGrath estate agency.
And its chief executive Geoff Lucas cautioned that the recent major capital city price jump was likely not sustainable on an annualised basis.
While the three months to October saw property prices in the Sydney and Melbourne metropolitan markets increase by 5 per cent and 5.5 per cent respectively, Lucas advised he did "not expect this rate of growth to continue.”
He told shareholders the business was recovering.
“While recent above reserve prices, increased auction clearance rates and buyer engagement levels have all improved sentiment, all of which might improve listing levels, we do not see evidence yet of any sustainable improvement,” he said.
McGrath has been busy buying rent rolls.
The company’s rent roll is conservatively valued at $49.4 million, and its Oxygen trailing commission at $2.6 million, while the company has only recognised $11.1m on its balance sheet.
The Australian reported funds managers at the meeting pointed to the value in the company’s rent rolls and the potential for it to grow in future.
Lucas told shareholders at yesterday's annual general meeting that October new listings in Sydney and Melbourne were respectively 6.6 per cent and 15.8 per cent lower than prior year numbers.
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"It is volumes however that are contributing to most of the challenges in the industry and whilst we have seen some recent improvements, new listings for the industry are still down on the prior year," Mr Lucas said.
"While recent above reserve prices, increased auction clearance rates and buyer engagement levels have all improved sentiment, all of which might improve listing levels, we do not see evidence yet of any sustainable improvement."
The company said it expected to post earnings before interest tax depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) of between $1 to $1.5 million in the first half of the year, a lift from a $10.1 million EBITDA loss for the whole of 2019.
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Lucas would not be drawn into offering any forecast statutory net profit, which has been in the red over the past two years. 
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The company was confident however it could maintain an upward momentum but cautioned the recovery would not be swift.
"We’re pleased to advise that there are some promising signs starting to come through in the market," chief executive Geoff Lucas said.
The Chinese developer Aqualand lifted its investment in the ASX listed McGrath estate agency from 15 per cent to 18.5 per cent last month.
The increase in its stake followed Aqualand’s acquisition of an <a href="/news/mcgrath-secure-10-7-million-strategic-investment-from-aqualand">initial 15 per cent in McGrath last year</a>. 
Aqualand will remain McGrath’s second largest shareholder, behind John McGrath's own 22 percent stake.
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The annual general meeting came amid sex harassment allegations that came to light last week in the Daily Telegraph.
Shareholders fear it could impede the company's road to recovery, as it involves its head of sales, Adrian Bo who denies any misdoing.
Mr Lucas said investigations were still ongoing.
John McGrath has been drafted in as the temporary head of the McGrath sales team in the leave of absence being taken Adrian Bo.
The role of company sales team leader was shared by Mr Bo and Mr McGrath following <a href="/news/kon-stathopoulos-departs-mcgrath-estate-agents">the departure in June of Kon Stathopoulos</a>.
The company's share price closed at 30¢ on Thursday, up 1¢ from Wednesday.
Its debut IPO price in 2016 was $2.10, and it <a href="/news/mcgrath-estate-agents-trading-at-all-time-low-of-19-5-cents">traded at an all time low in June</a>.
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Cautious McGrath see emerging prospect of recovery in earnings

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While Emerald is still bouncing off the bottom and in a slow rising mode, there is little eye candy around unless the property ticks all the boxes and has multiple buyers looking, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
The report notes a big sale for Emerald is over the $1 million mark.
"This year we have seen two properties sell in this top range with the first being <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-qld-emerald-107106154" target="_blank">8 Campbell Ford Drive</a> (pictured below), situated on 4,061 square metres with nine bedrooms, five bathrooms, a four-car garage, over 750 square metres under roof, a 19 metre pool and a 400 square metre shed," the valuation firm said. 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/11/25/emerald%20.jpg" alt="">
This is a one of a kind for Emerald, hence the price tag of over $1.1 million.
The second home selling at just over $1 million was at 22 Slack Drive.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/11/25/emerald%20.jpeg" alt="">
The property is 1.03 hectares of river frontage with manicured landscaping, an outdoor area, four bedrooms, two bathrooms, about 480 square metres under roof, a 300 square metre shed and an inground pool.
"Both of these properties lacked nothing for quality accommodation in Emerald," the valuation firm said. 
Rents top out at $450 to $500 per week with six listings currently. Rents have seen the highest growth in 2019 and this should start driving house prices upward.
"There are currently four genuine listings of residential properties in Emerald over $850,000. Each is unique with architect designed homes, pools, granny flats, large sheds, acreage, extra- large homes and high quality accommodation," the valuation firm noted. 
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Emerald sees two $1 million plus sales in 2019: HTW residential 

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Whilst some market segments have been a bit erratic throughout 2019, there are still a number of high-end properties that have transacted this year in Gold Coast, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
The report notes Sovereign Islands is a prestige residential locality at the northern end of the Gold Coast.
The collection of man-made islands is home to some of the largest and most prestigious dwellings on the coast.
"20 Parklane Terrace, Sovereign Islands, Paradise Point (pictured above) is no exception and sold in March 2019 for $6.3 million," the valuation firm said. 
Constructed on the property is an ultra-modern five-bedroom, four-bathroom dwelling with an eight car basement garage.
The house is situated on a rare 1,497 square metre, north-west canal facing, double wide allotment boasting a 27-metre water frontage.
The dwelling leverages its expansive water frontage to produce canal views.
Other improvements include a grand entrance with imported white marble staircase, home theatre room, bar room with fireplace, large lap style pool with water feature and spa and 24 metre pontoon jetty.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/11/20/22%20parkland%20tce.jpg" alt=""> 
Located in a prime main river front location, <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-qld-southport-112738511" target="_blank">1A Yacht Street, Southport </a>(pictured below) sold in June 2019 for $7 million.
The property features a south-east facing, two storey Hamptons style, five-bedroom, four- bathroom dwelling with three-car built-in garage, having a gross floor area of 825 square metre.
The dwelling appreciates expansive views of the Surfers Paradise skyline and the Nerang River.
The property is located within the prestigious TSS (The Southport School) precinct within Southport with a number of tightly held multi-million dollar homes.
Paradise Waters continues to set the benchmark for waterfront housing on the Gold Coast.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/11/20/1a%20yacht%20st.jpg" alt=""> 
The report notes one of the highest sales in the area this year was 22 Admiralty Drive (pictured below) which transacted in January for $7,975,000.
Whilst built in 1990, the home was renovated in 2007 and 2008 and comprises a substantial, 665 square metre, modern, five- bedroom, five-bathroom, prestige dwelling with garage area for six cars.
Having a land area of 1,351 square metres and 37 metres of frontage to the Nerang River along the south-eastern boundary, it is afforded good local, wide water and city skyline views.
Other improvements to the property include an indoor lap pool, high quality landscaping, water features, 24-metre pontoon jetty, two timber decks over the river and a boat shed with wet bar.
"This house benefits from an ever-changing view across the water to the Surfers Paradise skyline," the valuation firm commented. 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/11/20/24%20admiralty%20drive.jpg" alt=""> 
A north facing, 4,000 square metre Nerang River front allotment at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-qld-carrara-131569930" target="_blank">18 Maryland Avenue, Carrara </a>(pictured below) is under contract for $6.3 million.
It has a Hamptons inspired, modern dwelling with four-bedroom, four- bathroom and six-car accommodation built over two levels with a gross floor area of 863 square metres and a 31-metre frontage to the Nerang River.
The property is located in a sought-after enclave with several multi million dollar homes on similar small acreage riverfront and dry allotments.
"The property is in the process of changing hands and was placed under contract after a very short marketing campaign of just six days!" the valuation firm said. 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/11/20/carrara.jpg" alt="">
For Sale
"Hedges Avenue, also known as millionaire’s row is one of the most exclusive residential beach front localities on the Gold Coast with numerous multi- million dollar beachside residences," the valuation firm said. 
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-mermaid+beach-132157742" target="_blank">17 Hedges Avenue, Mermaid Beach </a>(pictured below) is currently listed for sale for $12.5 million.
Situated on a prime, corner block, the six-bedroom, eight-bathroom dwelling spans three storeys with floor to ceiling stack sliding doors to each floor, maximizing its views of the white sandy beaches of the Coast.
"The property offers a rare slice of paradise, being only one of four properties currently listed for sale along millionaire’s row," the valuation firm added. 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/11/20/17%20hedges%20avenue%20mermaid%20beach.jpg" alt=""> 
Te Moana at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-broadbeach+waters-131893742" target="_blank">255 Monaco Street, Broadbeach Waters </a>(pictured below) is listed for sale for $13.75 million and occupies a 3,296 square metre north-west facing Nerang River front allotment with 43 metres of prime river frontage.
The house is a classically designed, two level, palatial home of approximately 1,300 square metres with five bedrooms, six bathrooms and six-car garaging.
Monaco Street is one of the premier streets of the Gold Coast with a number of large prestige homes situated within close proximity to the Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, Broadbeach business precinct, Surfers Paradise CBD and the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre.
Aiming to break all Gold Coast property records, 26 Knightsbridge Parade East on Sovereign Islands has been listed for sale at USD $30 million (or about AUD $44.2 million depending on the exchange rate).
This property is located across five absolute broadwater front lots, with over 4,000 square metres of land area and a true north facing aspect and also has a staggering 106 metres of broadwater frontage.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/11/20/255%20monaco%20st.jpg" alt="">
Containing one of the Gold Coast’s largest residences, the dwelling has a total floor area of over 2,700 square metres built in the Tuscan style of architecture and designed by Bayden Goddard (one of the Gold Coast’s sought after architects).
Features to the property include seven bedrooms, nine bathrooms, eight metre ceiling heights, timber parquetry flooring, Turkish travertine feature columns, Turkish bathhouse, 30 metre north facing pool, high quality landscaping and 12 car basement.
"Watch this space as hopefully next year we will be reporting on these properties as record breaking sales," the valuation firm said. 
</body></html>

Gold Coast's Hedges Avenue sees numerous multi-million dollar transactions: HTW residential 

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

Joel Robinson

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

For much of the past few years, conversations about Australia's property market have centred on the rapid growth seen in Sydney, Brisbane, Gold Coast, and Perth. <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/melbourne-vic-3004">Melbourne</a> has followed a different trajectory.

That relative underperformance is now encouraging some buyers to reassess the city, particularly those willing to look beyond short-term market movements and focus on quality property in established locations, along with the long-term growth prospects of a city expected to overtake Sydney as Australia’s most populous.

John Bekiaris, Research &amp; Market Insights at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Projects by Equitifund</a>, said Melbourne's current position is attracting increasingly sophisticated purchasers.

"Melbourne continues to present one of Australia's strongest long-term investment stories," Bekiaris says.

"While other capital cities have experienced stronger recent growth, that relative underperformance is exactly what's attracting sophisticated counter-cyclical investors."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1979 project_image_fid=363268]

Equitifund isn't just commenting on Melbourne's property market, it's investing in it.

The Sydney-headquartered capital partner has taken over the remaining apartments at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/victoriana-melbourne-20-queens-road-melbourne-vic-3004">Victoriana</a>, the recently completed glass-encased development opposite Albert Park Lake in Melbourne's tightly held St Kilda Road precinct.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a> and built by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/hickory">Hickory</a>, Victoriana places residents between one of Melbourne's most recognised parklands and the CBD, offering oversized two and three-bedroom apartments aimed at owner-occupiers seeking a genuine alternative to a traditional family home.

The development comprises 232 completed residences alongside a suite of resident amenities, including a 25-metre indoor swimming pool, gymnasium, landscaped entertaining areas, resident lounges, EV charging, secure basement parking and a concierge-style arrival experience.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1979 project_image_fid=363229]

The apartments have been designed with owner-occupiers firmly in mind.&nbsp;Open-plan living and dining areas flow onto generous balconies framing views across Albert Park Lake, Fawkner Park, the Royal Botanic Gardens and the Melbourne skyline.

Kitchens feature Gaggenau appliances, stone benchtops and generous preparation space. Bedrooms include built-in robes, while bathrooms feature full-height textured tiling. Hardwood flooring and ducted air conditioning complete residences designed for long-term living.

Rothelowman's architecture takes its cues from the landscape opposite the site. Sweeping horizontal glazing references the movement of Albert Park Lake, while generous balconies and expansive glazing strengthen the connection between the apartments and the surrounding parklands. The result is a building designed to deliver the scale and amenity expected of luxury apartment living, while offering the larger floorplans increasingly sought by owner-occupiers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1979 project_image_fid=363284]

The location is one of Victoriana's defining characteristics. Positioned on Queens Road, residents are directly opposite Albert Park Lake and within easy reach of Fawkner Park, the Royal Botanic Gardens, South Melbourne, St Kilda Road and the CBD. With few comparable development opportunities remaining in the precinct, buyers are increasingly placing value on outlooks that are unlikely to be interrupted by future construction.

Greg Huxley, Founder of Equitifund, believes those qualities become even more valuable over time.

"Premium real estate has always rewarded buyers who take a long-term view," Huxley said.

"Victoriana represents the kind of asset that's increasingly difficult to recreate today, particularly in an established location like Queens Road."

He said rising construction costs are also changing the way buyers assess completed developments.

"When you combine an irreplaceable location with thoughtful architecture and premium finishes, you create something that becomes increasingly difficult to reproduce as construction costs continue to rise."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1979 project_image_fid=363228]

According to National Sales Director Ben Hamblett, enquiry has been driven largely by Melbourne downsizers and buyers upgrading from smaller apartments.

"Interest in Victoriana continues to build, with strong buyer focus on the larger owner-occupier residences within the development," Hamblett says.

"Enquiry is increasingly driven by local buyers who recognise the rarity of what's on offer: park-facing apartments in an established neighbourhood where new development opportunities are becoming increasingly scarce. At Victoriana, the view is not just a feature; it's an appreciating asset in its own right."

He said interstate enquiry has also strengthened as buyers reassess Melbourne's position within the national property cycle.

"Melbourne currently stands as the most compelling entry point of any major Australian capital, and discerning buyers are beginning to recognise what those who move early always understand: the best opportunities are taken before the price rise confirms them."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=1979]

Why now is the time to buy in Melbourne's premium apartment market

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

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

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

It's taken less than nine months for developer Sherpa Property Group to sell out all 51 apartments in its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-oasis-palm-beach-7-9-sixth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Oasis</a> development in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/palm-beach-qld-4221">Palm Beach</a>, over a year before its anticipated completion.

&nbsp;

Located at 7-9 Sixth Avenue, the $67 million development has resonated strongly with both local owner-occupiers and downsizers seeking high-quality apartments within walking distance of the beach, dining precincts and everyday amenities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151449 project_image_fid=357458]

Christie Leet, Founder of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sherpa-property-group">Sherpa Group</a>, said the sell-out reflected both the strength of the Palm Beach market and the success of Sherpa's community-first approach to development.

"The sell-out of Oasis is a fantastic outcome and reinforces the strong demand we're seeing for thoughtfully designed apartments in lifestyle locations," Leet said.

"From the outset, our vision was to create a development that genuinely enhanced the Palm Beach community while providing residents with exceptional homes and wellness-focused amenities.

"We've been incredibly encouraged by the level of local support throughout the campaign, 72.5 per cent of buyers are locals, with a significant proportion of purchasers choosing Oasis as their future home rather than an investment."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151449 project_image_fid=357463]

Construction is now progressing following development approval, with trusted builder LPS Group delivering the project and completion anticipated in Q3 2027.

Oasis forms part of Sherpa Group's successful Flourish collection, which has become recognised for its focus on wellness, community and elevated coastal living.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151449 project_image_fid=357469]

Residents will have private access to a rooftop amenity space featuring a pool, gym, sauna, steam room, hot and cold plunge pools, spa and barbecue facilities.

"The success of Oasis demonstrates that buyers continue to prioritise quality, location and lifestyle," Leet said.

"We are proud to have delivered a project that has resonated so strongly with the market and look forward to bringing Oasis to life for our future residents."

Sherpa recently launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-soleira-palm-beach-1150-1160-gold-coast-highway-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Soleira</a>, its third instalment of the Flourish brand in Palm Beach following Flourish Oasis and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/amargo-6-12-sixth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Amargo</a>.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=151449]

Sherpa sells out Flourish Oasis in booming Palm Beach

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

Staff reporter

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