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GUEST OBSERVATION
A decomposed, mummified body of a man was recently found by forensic cleaners in a Sydney apartment. The apartment’s owner is thought to have suffered from hoarding disorder, and police believe the decomposed body had been there for more than ten years.
We occasionally read stories involving people with hoarding disorder - people whose possessions pose a serious burden. Clutter might prevent them from sitting on their sofa, taking a shower, cooking a meal, or sleeping in their bed.
Despite the lack of space, they find it impossible to part with items they don’t need. Why is it so hard for them to let go of their possessions?
Loving things
As children, we use possessions to comfort ourselves when our parents are unavailable. By the time we reach adulthood, most of us have abandoned our security blankets and teddy bears. We might occasionally buy something unnecessary or hang on to a few items we no longer need.
In most cases, these few extra possessions don’t pose a problem. We store them in the closet or display them proudly on a shelf. But our stuff never creeps beyond that point. We have a few treasured objects, but we don’t rely on them to make us feel good – at least not on a regular basis.
It’s a different story for the 1.2 million Australians who meet the DSM-5 criteria for hoarding disorder. These include:
<ul>
<li>difficulty discarding items regardless of their actual value</li>
<li>a perceived need to save the items and associated distress at the idea of losing them</li>
<li>clutter that prevents using the home being used for its intended purpose.</li>
</ul>
Hoarding disorder leads to a quality of life as poor as that of people with schizophrenia. Clutter increases the risks of injury, medical conditions, and death.
A quarter to a third of Australian residential fire-related deaths are associated with hoarding disorder.
For those with hoarding disorder, possessions remind them of the past and foreshadow a potential future. They can remember their child wearing that outfit or playing with that toy. They are certain that jug will be useful some day, despite having many other jugs they have never used. They are extremely attached to their possessions for one reason or another.
Just thinking about disposing of their items makes people with hoarding disorder feel highly anxious. Their anxiety is similar to what others may feel about giving a speech or finding a spider in their shoe. Believing they can’t cope with the distress of losing their possessions, they hang on tightly. Doing so unfortunately strengthens their beliefs that their possessions are needed.
Objects as human substitutes
If children regularly use objects for comfort during times of need, why doesn’t everyone have a hoarding problem? We think it is because some people are more prone to anthropomorphism. Anthropomorphism is when an object is perceived to have human-like qualities.
Humans need to be connected physically, socially, and psychologically to other humans. This need is just as important as the need for air, water, food, and shelter. Loneliness negatively affects our health and is a risk factor for early death. Understandably, when we feel devalued or unloved, we seek out closeness. When our need isn’t met by humans, objects may serve as a substitute.
Individuals who hoard items tend to experience interpersonal difficulties, feel insecure in relationships, and believe themselves to be a burden to others. To compensate for unmet social needs, they anthropomorphise objects to feel connected.
Anthropomorphism doesn’t fully meet people’s needs, so they collect more and more objects. Stronger anthropomorphic tendencies are associated with more compulsive buying and greater acquisition of free stuff.
The current treatment approach teaches individuals how to challenge their beliefs about possessions. It also teaches them how to resist acquiring urges and how to sort, organise, and discard possessions. This approach helps only about a quarter of people who receive it.
We used to think social disconnection was a consequence of hoarding. Now, we think it may be part of the cause. At Lifeline Harbour to Hawkesbury, Macquarie University, and UNSW, we are piloting an enhanced hoarding treatment. This treatment addresses core hoarding problems as well as helping to improve impaired social connections.
<img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/97784/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1">The consequences of hoarding escalate as people get older. Without treatment, the consequences (such as fire) of hoarding disorder costs Australia an estimated A$36,880 per person, per occurrence. If we can help people feel valued and loved, they may benefit more from treatment. In turn, they may experience a desperately needed improvement in their quality of life.
Melissa Norberg, Associate Professor in Psychology, Macquarie University
Jessica Grisham, Associate Professor in Psychology, UNSW
This article was originally published on <a href="http://theconversation.com" target="_blank">The Conversation</a>. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/when-possessions-are-poor-substitutes-for-people-hoarding-disorder-and-loneliness-97784" target="_blank">original article</a>.
Photo: Clutter that sufficiently prevents the use of the living room for its original purpose. Source: A/Prof Melissa Norberg.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

When possessions are poor substitutes for people: hoarding disorder and loneliness

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Well presented and high-quality properties in Sydney’s west are still achieving relatively strong results, however less desirable and average quality stock is being discounted, according to the June update on residential prices by the valuation firm, Herron Todd White (htw).
It says western Sydney buyers have more options and aren’t willing to pay strong money for average stock.
Interest in new land releases, whether vacant land or house and land packages, remains steady, it noted, with developers continuing to stage releases to ensure demand remains relatively strong.
"This has resulted in a consistent level of demand for master-planned subdivisions," HTW suggested.
"We have noticed a number of settlement valuations for new units not meeting their off the plan prices when purchased during stronger market conditions, mostly in 2015 and 2016.
"Whilst mostly occurring for overseas buyers, this could trigger a flow of sales post-settlement due to difficulties obtaining nance and rental yields not meeting expectations thanks to high investor participation.
HTW gave an example in Parramatta with an off the plan sale in October 2014 of $672,000 and recent resale in March 2018 at for $630,000.
"Whilst not an indication of the wider Parramatta market, it does highlight that discounting does occur and if a large number of vendors have to offload property at the same time, it could lead to a market correction as new benchmarks are set.
"Market drivers to keep an eye on during the remainder of the year are interest rates, any tightening of lending criteria and property supply. Any signi cant increases to the cash rate may have flow-on effects to the home loan market, leading to the potential for more distressed sales as homeowners and investors may struggle to meet the larger repayments on highly geared mortgages.
"This has the potential for some pockets of Sydney to experience sharp decreases in values in the short term.
HTW warned any large volume of supply flooding a particular market sector combined with an overall slowdown, tougher lending criteria and possibly higher interest rates will eventually lead to a sharper slowing of the market.
"We believe this is more likely with high-density units as investor participation is higher and as densities increase markets can be supplied quickly."
HTW advised another area to keep an eye on for the remainder of the year was suburbs that allow dual occupancy development following the recent release of the NSW Government’s new Low Rise Medium Density Housing Code. 
"This will allow one and two storey dual occupancies, manor houses and terraces to be constructed under a fast track complying development approval.
"With duplex style development popular in some areas of western Sydney, this fast tracking of approvals may lead to more interest and participation in the market resulting in a boost to owners of blocks meeting the new minimum requirements," the June report suggested.
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Losses in Western Sydney OTP resales could trigger market correction

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A south-western Sydney four bedroom house has been sold for $595,000 by mortgagees. 
It was sold by Joe Bousimon from Belle Property.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-heckenberg-128304830" target="_blank">Situated at 19 Talbingo Place, Heckenberg</a>, the house comes with four bedrooms, spacious lounge room, internal laundry and oversized backyard. 
Nestled on a 652 square metres block, it is within walking distance to Mannix Park and Heckenberg Public School, and within easy reach of Liverpool CBD, as well as convenient links to M5/M7.
It was last traded for $594,000 in 2015.
The suburb's median house price sits on $649,000, according to CoreLogic.
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$1,000 gain in Heckenberg four bedroom house mortgagee sale

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Toowoomba's residential property market is stable but lacking consistency.
The Toowoomba residential property market has continued to remain steady throughout the first half of 2018 following a general decline since the peak of activity at the end of 2013, and although sales activity has been steady across the board, the market has continued to be multispeed and property specific, according to the June report form valuation firm Herron Todd White.
There has been little consistency with variations in sale prices and buyer interest across the established suburbs.
The report suggests that, the prestige market however, has been performing strongly, particularly in the eastern suburbs as has the upper end of the rural residential lifestyle market.
The median sale price has displayed some growth over the past 3 years, currently sitting at approximately $390,000 up from $375,000 in June 2015, the report noted.
"As of April 2018, there were approximately 1,740 houses and units listed for sale in postcode 4350 and with this is being near a 6 year high, it does not bode well for price growth in the short term." stated the HTW valuers
"The unit market has followed a similar trend to the housing market, with low sales volumes following the oversupply of unit product that became apparent throughout 2016."
Land sales volumes steadily increased in the 3 years between 2012 and 2015; peaking at 1,063 sales in 2015, while in 2016, 681 sales were recorded and then 677 in 2017.
"In contrast, vacancy rates across Toowoomba are approximately 2.3% as at April 2018, which is considered tight and below the balanced market level of 3%", noted the valuers at HTW.
"The Toowoomba Second Range Crossing project under construction appears to have assisted in maintaining low vacancy rates, with many workers residing in the region."
The valuing firm forecasts that the low vacancy rate and substantial infrastructure projects in the pipeline may reignite interest in Toowoomba residential property from investors although the steady market conditions currently being experienced in the residential property market are expected to continue throughout the remainder of 2018.
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Toowoomba's residential property market stable but lacking consistency: HTW 

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While Newcastle’s sporting fortunes are dwindling, the same can’t be said for the local property market.
With Sydney’s market in decline, many expected Newcastle to shortly follow, a prediction that has not yet occurred, according to the June report from valuation firm Herron Todd White.
A major rejuvenation of the CBD, a mining sector recovery and a strong tourism push are just some of the factors contributing to Newcastle’s growing economy.
Generally, with a strong local economy, the property market is strong and this is certainly the case at the moment with Newcastle.
"Even though the Sydney market is cooling off, it is still the most expensive in the country meaning investors are still attracted to Newcastle because of its size, cheaper prices and proximity to Sydney."
"These investors are still the strongest players in the local market with their demand for property still high" suggests the HTW valuers. 
There are a number of apartment blocks being built across the CBD and most of these apartments are sold off the plan as soon as they become available, with one local agency reporting that they sold an "entire block within a week", noted the report.
A recent auction in Bar Beach saw a home advertised with a price range of between $2.8 million and $3 million.
The property sold for $3.5 million at auction with eight bids amongst four registered bidders.
While this property is in Newcastle’s prestige market, agents are reporting that average homes are still not lasting long on the market and vacant land in the outer developing suburbs is still selling fast.
There is no doubt the market is still strong but there is certainly caution in the air, suggests the report.
Agents are seeing fewer numbers at open homes and the number of apartments being built in the city has some experts believing we could end up with an oversupply situation similar to that seen in some of the major metropolitan areas around the country.
Others still believe Newcastle is too directly connected to Sydney’s market for its decline not to eventually be passed on.
"It seems however at this stage that the Newcastle market does not rely as strongly on Sydney as the Knights do on Mitchell Pearce."
The valuers suggest that, "although the Knights may have crashed due to his loss, the Newcastle’s property market seems to be weathering the storm."
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Newcastle’s sporting fortunes are dwindling, but not the local property market: HTW 

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The Elms, a North Hobart Arts and Crafts mansion with views over the extensive gardens and the Derwent River has been sold for $2.05 million.
It was sold by Chris Huxtable from Fall Real Estate.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-tas-north+hobart-124209686" target="_blank">Located at 452 Elizabeth Street</a>, the interior of the 1917 mansion features dark timber panelling, grand staircase, main reception room with ceiling beams and sandstone fire.
Operating as a visitor accommodation since the mid-1990s, the property has had up to ten suites. 
<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/2018/6/13/north%20hobart%203.jpg" alt="">
Designed by renowned architect Bernard Walker and built in 1917 for Albert Flexmore as a family home, the property was then sold to the Palfreyman family in 1933.
Situated on an over 2000 sqm allotment, it's only a five-minute stroll from popular North Hobart precinct and 3km from Salamanca Place and Hobart's waterfront district.
It was last traded for $1.06 million in 2009. 
The suburb's median house price sits on $658,888, according to CoreLogic. 
 
 
 
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The Elms, North Hobart arts and crafts bed and breakfast sold

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Sydney's southern suburbs are showing mixed, but downward trending price outcomes, according to the June report from Herron Todd White.
Like Sydney in general, the southern suburbs have shown mixed results over the first part of the year, generally down overall but with some suburbs showing more resilience than others, the valuation firm advised.
Market activity had slowed and auction clearance rates are down to 61.3% from 70.9% at the same time last year
The region has shown an overall decline in dwelling values, Oatley’s 2018 median house price has increased slightly by 0.5% from 2017.
Engadine however, has shown a drop of 11.1% in its median price compared to 2017, almost nullifying the 15.2% increase it saw in the period from 2016 to 2017.
"A recent example of the declining market is a home, 27 McRaes Avenue, Penshurst (pictured above), located in a well regarded section of the suburb."
"This property sold in September 2016 for $1.5 million and sold again in May 2018 for $1.48 million, highlighting that in some areas, properties are now starting to fall back below late 2016 prices", suggested the valuation firm
27 Prestige suburbs appear to be performing better however again there have been some mixed results as market activity in this section of the market has slowed compared to mid-2017.
Burraneer has experienced a 5% drop in median sale price from 2017 while Sylvania Waters is up by 10.8% according to the June report from HTW
The report notes that, "new units are taking longer to sell with an increasing number of developers offering incentives to purchasers."
The report concludes by noting that, "an oversupply of units is still possible as a large number of new complexes reach completion over the next two years."
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Sydney's southern suburbs are showing mixed, but downward trending results: HTW

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Townsville's residential market has confidence with a positive market sentiment.
The inner city 4810 postcodes remain buoyant with inner-city projects including the Townsville Stadium and proposed waterfront precinct being positive factors.
The present market is highly suburb selective, with reasonable turnover levels in the sought after mid to inner suburbs.
But there are patchy sales in other areas and suburbs with perceived social issues, according to the June report from valuation firm Herron Todd White.
During 2018, the trending rental vacancy rate has remained in a balanced market range with the overall trend vacancy rate at just over 3%.
The report noted that, this is significantly lower than the prevailing trend in vacancy rate for the similar period of 2017 at 5.52%.
The unit market is currently steady, albeit at low volumes, with some resistance still being experienced due to the holding costs associated with unit ownership including body corporate fees and high insurance costs.
The valuers at HTW forecast that the remainder of 2018 will remain similar to what has been seen to date so far, with any changes to demand or sentiment heavily reliant on factors such as unemployment, job security and population growth.
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Patchy sometimes, but Townsville's residential market has a positive market sentiment: HTW 

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The Sunshine Coast residential property market is still performing well, according to the June report from valuation firm Herron Todd White.
The first six months of 2018 saw a slight fall in the volume of sales compared to this time last year but the main reason was the limited stock availablity.
Although general buyer activity has been good, some agents over recent weeks have begun to notice that enquiry levels have slowed with some urgency disappearing from the market
"Whether this is just a seasonal impact or some early signs of a slowing market, it's still too early to tell," the valuation firm advise.
Properties and areas that have good market appeal are still performing well with the various residential property types, existing dwellings and vacant land still outperforming the residential unit market.
The lower end of both are in demand, particularly the sub $600,000 market, the valuers noted.
Property along the coastal strip from Caloundra to Noosa Heads are as always, in demand, and well positioned good quality rural residential properties in hinterland localities have been generating good interest.
The report discusses how, "the market for property on the Sunshine Coast is still being heavily influenced by the interstate migration from the southern states as well as Brisbane buyers relocating north."
The southern end of the coast has two large small lot affordable housing estates which comprise predominantly sub $600,000 single unit dwellings.
Land continues to sell prior to titles being issued in most cases, however HTW valuers have also begun to see a decline in investor activity with the tightening of credit and investor loans by the banks really taking effect.
Further north, land is still selling well at Bli Bli and Peregian Springs although the supply of vacant land in new estates generally decreases north of the Maroochy River with limited sites available.
The improvement in the prestige and higher end properties has historically been driven by a high percentage of interstate investors from Sydney and Melbourne.
"This is especially the case in the Noosa region," it noted.
The relative affordability when comparing Sydney and Melbourne prices to those of the Sunshine Coast demonstrates pretty good value, suggests the report.
It also appears that the Sunshine Coast is pretty high on the "place to be" lists of baby boomers who have started to retire.
The next large infrastructure projects likely to give the coast another boost are the continued development within the much anticipated Maroochydore CBD as well as the Sunshine Coast Airport expansion.
The reported advised the next big game changer was the Sunshine Coast International Broadband Submarine Cable project which is still to be announced.
The report suggests, this project has the potential to make the coast into a major tech hub.
HTW valuers forecast that the Sunshine Coast residential property market will simmer along in much the same fashion as the first half of 2018 with values being good.
Net migration from the southern states is expected to continue as now it appears that the southern markets are cooling and people are selling up and moving north for lifestyle reasons.
The report also predicts that the market may be in the early stages of transitioning after several years of strong growth across all residential property markets.
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Interstate migration boosting Sunshine Coast residential property markets

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The Lismore, Casino and Kyogle residential markets remain stable, and are being primarily driven by local investors.
According to the June report from valuation firm Herron Todd White, the market segment is being driven primarily by the local market and doesn’t include many non-local investors.
Rural townships such as the Casino and Kyogle CBDs continue to remain steady with no drop in sales volume, according to the report.
The established housing sector remains steady and is the primary product purchased in the Lismore (pictured)/Casino/Kyogle shire.
The valuation firm notes that in general, there are not many new homes being sold in Casino or Kyogle, however, a high number of construction loans are ongoing for new builds in Goonellabah and Lismore and the occasional sale of a new duplex unit.
The rural residential property market located west of the Casino and Kyogle CBDs hasn’t seen much market movement lately and sales continue to remain relatively steady.
Sales in these secondary locations tend to not be as quick to market as those of the smaller residential sales that have a superior location.
Housing statistics in the Lismore region, specifically auction clearance rates, are generally good depending on the type of property in the market.
"Auctions of smaller residential properties seem to see the best results and have a steady presence in today’s market," the report said.
"The general outlook remains steady for houses in the Lismore/Casino/Kyogle shire as we move into the second half of the year", HTW suggests.
Values seem to be increasing and sale volumes remain strong.
As for units located in this area, there is not a lot of product and sales for this particular sector are thinning.
The main drivers for the Lismore/Casino/Kyogle market include retirees and people who wish to move closer to the CBD within these townships.
It is these sales that contribute to the continuation of steady market sales within this region, the valuers conclude.
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Lismore, Casino and Kyogle residential markets attracting local investors: HTW 

Buyers considering a residence at boutique Gordon townhouse development <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/lume-gordon-43-47-dumaresq-street-gordon-nsw-2072">Lume</a>&nbsp;now have another reason to bring forward their decision.

For a limited time, purchasers of a residence at Lume will receive a BMW iX3 50 electric SUV, valued at more than $120,000, as part of their purchase. The offer is designed to add value for buyers while complementing the lifestyle envisioned for the architecturally designed Upper North Shore development.

Scott Timmins, Development Manager at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/winim">WINIM</a>, said the partnership was created to provide buyers with a compelling reason to act.

"In today's market, buyers need a compelling reason to act now, and the BMW partnership was designed to create that catalyst. We wanted to add genuine value for our future purchasers. Choosing the all-electric BMW iX3 50 also reflects the values behind LUME, forward-thinking design, innovation and a more sustainable way of living. It's a premium incentive that complements the lifestyle our buyers aspire to and rewards those who commit early."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7354 project_image_fid=374893]

Delivered by WINIM in partnership with Burtonwood Investment Partners, Lume comprises 14 architecturally designed two, three and four-bedroom townhomes created for families seeking the space of a freestanding house with the ease of modern, low-maintenance living.

The three-storey residences, designed by award-winning architecture practice <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>, have been tailored for families and multi-generational living, featuring private internal lifts, flexible lower-level spaces, generous open-plan living and entertaining areas, media rooms, and landscaped outdoor spaces with custom outdoor kitchens.&nbsp;

Inside, engineered oak flooring, bespoke dining joinery with integrated wine fridges and backlit bars, sculptural porcelain bathrooms, Parisi freestanding baths and Astra Walker tapware create interiors that balance functionality with refined finishes.

Each townhome has been designed to combine generous internal spaces with sustainability initiatives such as EV charging infrastructure, while <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/arcadia-landscape-architecture">Arcadia</a>'s landscaped communal areas, centred around a restored creek line and native planting, encourage residents to connect with nature and spend more time outdoors.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7354 project_image_fid=269527]

Rothelowman's Gary Tsui said the architecture was conceived to respond carefully to its Upper North Shore setting.

"Our vision was to create elegant, uplifting homes that draw on and positively contribute to the local character through meticulously considered design and an interaction with the surroundings."

The communal landscape has been designed as more than an open space between homes. Arcadia's Ben Newell and Kate Phillips said the adjoining reserve provided an opportunity to create a distinctive natural retreat for residents.

"Just as waterways carve their way through Ku-ring-gai's landscape, a raised boardwalk weaves through the reserve, connecting the homes to this tranquil oasis."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7354 project_image_fid=374892]

Located just 300 metres from <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/gordon-nsw-2072">Gordon</a> Village and Gordon railway station, Lume offers convenient access to Sydney's CBD while placing residents close to some of the North Shore's leading schools, including Ravenswood, Pymble Ladies' College and Knox Grammar. Lane Cove National Park, Gordon Golf Club and a range of cafés and restaurants further reinforce the family-focused lifestyle on offer, with the BMW iX3 50 complementing everything from local trips around Gordon to weekend drives and city commutes.

Construction is underway with completion expected in mid-2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=7354]

Joel Robinson

Boutique Gordon townhomes now come with a BMW iX3 50

Two apartments have sold for more than $10 million at EADE Byron Bay, setting some of the highest apartment prices ever achieved in the coastal town and underlining the growing appetite for luxury beachfront apartments in Australia's most popular coastal locations.

The $210 million project by Vitale Property Group has now secured more than $70 million in sales, led by residences that changed hands for $12.75 million and $11.75 million.

The record-breaking transactions reinforce the shift occurring in Byron Bay's premium property market, where affluent downsizers and lifestyle buyers are increasingly opting for high-end apartments over large beachfront homes.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/eade-byron-bay-29-shirley-street-byron-bay-nsw-2481">EADE Byron Bay</a> occupies a rare 6,000 sqm absolute beachfront site on the corner of Shirley and Milton Streets overlooking Main Beach and The Wreck surf break, just 350 metres from Byron Bay's town centre.

The 25-residence development is the first beachfront apartment project approved in Byron Bay in more than a decade and is currently under construction, with completion expected in May 2027.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145590 project_image_fid=359521]

The project has attracted a mix of local Byron Shire residents downsizing from larger homes, alongside interstate buyers from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane seeking a permanent coastal lifestyle without compromising on space.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hayball">Hayball</a> and with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/alexander-co">Alexander &amp; Co</a>, EADE comprises&nbsp;10 garden apartments ranging from 284 sqm to 622 sqm, nine with private pools, five full-floor apartments and 10 rooftop residences with private plunge pools, expansive outdoor entertaining areas and uninterrupted ocean views.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145590 project_image_fid=359527]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/vitale-property-group">Vitale Property Group</a> Managing Partner Chris Vitale said the project's combination of scale, location and limited future supply was driving buyer demand.

"There isn't another beachfront holding in Byron Bay of this size and position that could be developed again," Vitale said.

"Buyers are responding to the scarcity and the irreplaceability of a site of this calibre and to floorplans they can't find elsewhere in the market.

"We are seeing buyers place significant value on quality, space, design, resort-style amenities and the rarity of the location. The sales achieved to date demonstrate that discerning purchasers recognise the long-term significance of what is being created at EADE Byron Bay.

"Many are coming from larger homes in the Byron region, or from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, and are after the space, security and convenience, without the upkeep of a house."

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[smartcode_project:default project_id=145590 project_image_fid=359523]

The Byron Bay project follows Vitale Property Group's delivery of the Mondrian Hotel and Private Residences at Burleigh Heads, with EADE continuing the developer's focus on luxury coastal developments.

Residents will have access to a resort-style swimming pool, gymnasium, sauna, cold plunge pool, concierge services and dedicated workspaces, while the project is targeting an 8-Star Green Star rating.

EADE Byron Bay is being exclusively marketed by Projx Australia in conjunction with WHITEFOX Projects.

WHITEFOX National Projects Director Phillip Rand said demand had been driven predominantly by owner-occupiers.

"We are seeing buyers at EADE place significant value on quality, space, design, resort-style amenities and the rarity of this location," Rand says.

"The sales achieved to date demonstrate that purchasers at this level recognise the long-term significance of what is being created at EADE Byron Bay."

Residences at EADE Byron Bay are currently priced between $4.75 million and $15.95 million.

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[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=145590]

Vitale breaks Byron Bay records with EADE sales flurry 

When buying an apartment, most people compare the big-ticket items first. Floorplans. Kitchens. Balcony size. Natural light. The view.

But there's one everyday consideration that often doesn't come up until after moving in: how parcels are delivered.

As online shopping has become part of everyday life, parcel deliveries have shifted from an occasional event to a regular occurrence. Australians spent a record $82.6 billion shopping online in 2025, with almost one in every four retail dollars now spent digitally.

For apartment residents, that can present a challenge.

If nobody is home to accept a delivery, parcels may be redirected to a nearby Post Office, left in a building lobby or common area, or require building management to step in. In higher-density buildings, where dozens or even hundreds of residents may receive deliveries each day, parcel management has become an increasingly important part of everyday living.

That can create a range of frustrations. A missed delivery often means making time to collect a parcel elsewhere, while packages left unattended in foyers or mail areas can create clutter and increase the risk of theft. What seems like a minor inconvenience can quickly become a recurring issue for residents who shop online regularly.

It's one of those details that rarely features in a display suite but can have a noticeable impact once residents move in.

As a result, buyers are beginning to look beyond traditional apartment features and consider how a building supports day-to-day convenience, including whether there are secure options for receiving deliveries.

Australia Post's Parcel Lockers provide one solution.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CkF2oKmlACg?si=C50sDaoUUn2nuLmq" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Rather than having a parcel delivered directly to an apartment, eligible deliveries can be sent to a nominated Parcel Locker. Once the parcel arrives, residents receive a notification through the AusPost app or SMS and can collect it using a QR code or one-time PIN at a time that suits them.

The Parcel Locker network now includes more than 1,500 locations nationwide, with installations at Post Offices, shopping centres, transport hubs and an increasing number of residential developments. By providing a secure collection point, Parcel Lockers help reduce missed deliveries and avoid parcels being left unattended in common areas.

For developers, parcel infrastructure is becoming another way to improve the resident experience. Rather than relying on concierge staff or leaving parcels in communal spaces, secure collection points help streamline deliveries while preserving the presentation and functionality of shared areas.

For buyers, it's a reminder that the best apartment features aren't always the most obvious.

A generous floorplan or quality finishes might help narrow the shortlist, but the conveniences that simplify everyday life, whether that's EV charging, secure bike storage or reliable parcel delivery, often become the features residents appreciate most once they're living there.

The apartment feature many buyers don't think about, until their first missed delivery

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/hg-developments">HG Developments</a> is doubling down on Maud Street in Newstead, filing plans for a new apartment tower just a few doors down from its under-construction Aire Newstead development.

Recently submitted to Brisbane City Council, the proposal is for an 18-storey building designed by bureau^proberts, which has drawn heavily on Brisbane's subtropical design principles while referencing the suburb's industrial heritage.

A total of 64 apartments are planned for the amalgamated 1,518 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/17-21-maud-street-newstead-qld-4006">17–21 Maud Street</a>, a short walk from the Brisbane River and Newstead Riverwalk.

<img alt="First look: HG Developments plans 18-storey subtropical apartment tower for Newstead" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a400c7fd-bd15-48f8-a63b-10ede92efe00" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Maud%20st%20bldg.png?VersionId=.0vPmjpbC7CNP7kqGWa6L7rGIwsNExaw" />

"The building is defined by a series of vaulted motifs that reinterpret the arches, colonnades and layered facades evident throughout Newstead's historic built fabric," the Urban Design Report states.

"Combined with recessed glazing and generous balconies, these elements create a layered building envelope that provides shade, weather protection and opportunities for natural ventilation whilst establishing a distinctive architectural identity."

The proposal comprises 64 two, three and four-bedroom apartments across 18 residential levels, positioning it alongside a growing number of taller residential projects transforming Newstead's northern precinct. The tower incorporates extensive subtropical landscaping, with cascading planter boxes, deep planting at street level and a landscaped rooftop recreation area.

<img alt="First look: HG Developments plans 18-storey subtropical apartment tower for Newstead" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1d8140f4-8b98-45cd-b1b8-1efe8c8e266b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Maud%20st%20podium.png?VersionId=VAZtbCoD44YCJ57N99fQCAKeSJx7ldZs" />

Bureau Proberts has prioritised passive environmental design throughout the project, with generous balconies, recessed glazing and operable façades helping reduce solar heat gain while maximising natural ventilation. River views become available from the upper levels, while the building has been orientated to capture prevailing breezes from both the Brisbane River and the west.

The architects say landscape is intended to be integral to the building rather than an applied element.

"Vertical greenery, cascading planter boxes and elevated gardens are woven throughout the architecture, softening the built form and strengthening the connection between residents and the subtropical environment."

"Through the integration of landscape, high-quality materials and passive design principles, the development delivers a refined residential address that celebrates Newstead's heritage character while contributing positively to Brisbane's evolving subtropical identity."

Newstead has remained one of Brisbane's most active apartment markets in recent years, with a number of developers continuing to back the inner-city suburb.

HG Developments is currently delivering the 40-apartment Aire Newstead at 25 Maud Street. Fortis recently launched the 65-apartment <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/crest-walker-newstead-12-kyabra-street-newstead-qld-4006">Crest &amp; Walker</a> on Kyabra Street, while builder-developer BPG and Don O'Rorke's Consolidated Properties are both expected to launch their respective Newstead projects before the end of the year.

HG Developments doubles down in Newstead with second Maud Street apartment development

Walk past a new apartment development promoting its sustainability credentials and it's easy to picture rooftop gardens, mature trees, landscaped courtyards and residents surrounded by nature.

But in many cases, that's not actually what those sustainability ratings guarantee.

Australia's leading environmental rating tools have played a significant role in improving the energy efficiency and environmental performance of buildings. Yet despite their focus on reducing emissions, many don't require developers to include trees, biodiversity or meaningful green space.

In other words, a building can achieve one of the country's highest sustainability ratings while containing little more than concrete, glass and hard landscaping.

That disconnect has led to the emergence of a new movement across Australia's property industry: nature-based cities.

The concept goes beyond designing buildings that consume less energy. Instead, it encourages developers to treat nature as essential infrastructure, integrating biodiversity, tree canopy, living landscapes and green spaces into projects from the earliest stages of planning.

Research has consistently linked access to nature with better physical and mental health, cooler neighbourhoods, improved biodiversity, stronger climate resilience and more connected communities. As Australia's cities continue to become denser, advocates say those outcomes should be considered just as important as energy efficiency.

Nature Based Cities (NBC) was established in 2022 to help accelerate that shift.

Founded by Hamton Executive Chairman Paul Hameister OAM, the not-for-profit was created after research highlighted a significant gap in Australia's sustainability framework. While existing environmental rating tools rewarded energy performance and emissions reductions, they placed little emphasis on the inclusion of living landscapes.

"We've always wanted to do more, and we know other developers who want to do more, but the ESD rating tools just aren't there," Hameister says.

"In Australia, you can have a five-green-star rated building that's concrete and glass with not a blade of grass.

"The focus is on reducing emissions, which is laudable, but there hasn't been enough attention paid to protecting and re-establishing nature. We need both for the health of the environment and for communities."

Since its launch, NBC has developed independent design guidelines and accreditation frameworks that encourage developers to prioritise ecology, biodiversity, tree canopy, walkability and living landscapes alongside traditional sustainability measures. The organisation first focused on medium and high-density residential developments before recently expanding into precinct-scale communities and masterplanned neighbourhoods.

Jan Talacko, founder of sustainability consultancy Ark Resources and a member of the Nature Based Cities Advisory Council, says the initiative addresses an area that has largely been overlooked by the property industry.

"Throughout my 25 years of working collaboratively with all stakeholders in the property sector, I've always favoured a pragmatic approach to sustainable design which encourages initiatives that not only meet environmental expectations but also improve amenity," Talacko says.

"Whilst we are making steady progress in relation to energy and carbon emissions from buildings, there has been much less emphasis on encouraging biodiversity and tackling the urban heat island effect.

"The Nature Based Cities initiative responds to a gap in the suite of tools currently used by the property development sector, which don't provide sufficient incentive, or recognition, for the integration of landscaping and greenery."

For apartment buyers, the shift is also changing the questions worth asking.

Rather than assuming a sustainable building will naturally include abundant green space, buyers are increasingly being encouraged to look beyond environmental ratings and ask what nature is actually being delivered. How much tree canopy will the development create? Has biodiversity been considered? Are landscaped spaces designed for people as well as appearance?

As Australia's cities continue to grow upwards and outwards, the next generation of sustainability may not simply be measured by lower emissions, but by how successfully developments bring nature back into everyday urban life.

Staff reporter

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