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<p>Values within the Warrnambool market are yet to display any decline due to the impact of COVID-19, according to the July Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. </p>
<p>The valuation firm took a look at how a budget of $700,000 could be invested in property markets across the nation.</p>
<p><span>The report notes confidence across the purchaser landscape remains solid; whether this remains the case in three months’ time is open for discussion.</span></p>
<p><span>"Demand in this price sector was considered to be on a slight upward trend pre-COVID-19 and we predict that trend to continue moving forward should the COVID-19 recovery come quickly and completely," the valuation firm said. </span></p>
<p><span>Premier central Warrnambool properties, particularly those with heritage stylings and some level of updated interior, are very much excluded from the $700,000 price range. </span></p>
<p><span>The buy-in for entry level property in this location starts at $750,000, the report noted. </span></p>
<p><span>"A great example of what you get at the premier entry level is 9 Victoria Street, Warrnambool, VIC, 3280 (pictured below)," the valuation firm said. </span></p>
<p>Three bedrooms, one bathroom, detached two-car garage on an 800 square metre allotment.</p>
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<p><span>Situated one block removed from city centre. Very basic level of fit-out with fantastic heritage features.</span></p>
<p><span> <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/2020/8/14/warrnambool%201.jpg" alt=""></span></p>
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<p><span>Moving ever so slightly away from the premier locations, potential buyers will start to see a number of options develop.</span></p>
<p><span>It’s here, still centrally located (within one kilometre of the CBD and beach) that buyers will find high quality townhouses, renovated heritage dwellings and properties with further development or value adding potential start to become available in the $600,000 to $700,000 range, the report noted. </span></p>
<p><span>For those with a vision and greasy elbows, look no further than 90 Skene Street, Warrnambool (pictured below).</span></p>
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<p><span>A circa 1880 weatherboard dwelling requiring a whole lot of work situated on a 2,100 square metre allotment. </span></p>
<p><span>While the amount of renovation work required can’t be overstated, the dwelling does feature distant ocean glimpses through the Norfolk pines.</span></p>
<p><span> <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/2020/8/14/warrnambool%202.jpg" alt=""></span> </p>
<p><span>"There’s great potential for value adding with property such as this around Warrnambool," the valuation firm said. </span></p>
<p><span>The report notes buyers interested in something with a little more room to move can find larger sized property (4,000 plus square metres) in Warrnambool’s surrounding lifstyle areas. </span></p>
<p>5 Elizabeth Street, Allansford, VIC, 3277 (pictured below). </p>
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<p><span>Set on one acre, ten minutes from Warrnambool in the smaller satellite township of Allansford, this property features a standard quality, modern style brick dwelling of approximately 240 square metres. </span></p>
<p><span>Beyond the dwelling, the property is improved with a six bay workshop and large store shed.</span></p>
<p><span><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/2020/8/14/allansford%202.jpg" alt=""> </span></p>
<p><span>"As mentioned above, if you had this kind of money to invest within the region’s property market, then you have the opportunity to purchase within most market segments, from a large, centrally located character dwelling to a rural living style property on the outskirts of town," the valuation firm said. </span></p>
<p><span>Properties within this price range are generally owner-occupied and we don’t see many of them offered for rent.</span></p>
<p><span>"Demand in this price sector has remained relatively steady over the past few years and we predict that it will continue to remain this way over the next 12 months.</span></p>
<p><span>"However, with the impact of COVID-19 on the property market still unclear, it is difficult to make any predictions with confidence." </span></p>
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What a lazy $700,000 can buy in Warrnambool: HTW residential 

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<p>Within the Mount Gambier region, $700,000 will enable you to purchase practically anywhere, according to the July Herron Todd White (HTW) report. </p>
<p>The valuation firm took a look at how a budget of $700,000 could be invested in property markets across the nation.</p>
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<p><span>The report started with the COVID update.</span></p>
<p><span>To date there are still no clear indications of the impact of COVID–19 on property values in the Mount Gambier region. </span></p>
<p><span>"Whilst the market has softened as a direct result of government enforced restrictions and general economic uncertainty, we are yet to see this reflected in any value correction.</span></p>
<p><span>"As restrictions begin to ease and some normality resumes, we remain positive that the impact will be limited, however are not naive to the fact that there will be ramifications within the property market," the valuation firm said. </span></p>
<p><span>"Now, where to spend a lazy $700,000", the report continued. </span></p>
<p><span>The report suggests few dwellings sell for more than $700,000 and demand for property tends to reduce significantly when the market value is greater than $700,000. </span></p>
<p><span>Within the past 12 months there have been a limited number of houses sold for $600,000 to $700,000. </span></p>
<p><span>Typically, up to $700,000 will allow you to purchase a character dwelling in a sought-after central location.</span></p>
<p>The sale at<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-sa-mount+gambier-126727478" target="_blank"> 22 Lansell Street</a> (pictured above) features a fully renovated character dwelling with high quality fit-out, three bedrooms, two bathrooms and a swimming pool.</p>
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<p><span>On the outskirts of town, there have also been a few sales to come close to the $700,000 price range, the report noted. </span></p>
<p><span>These sales are generally on rural living style allotments and are good quality homes featuring one to three acres, four bedrooms, two bathrooms and good ancillary improvements.</span></p>
<p>A four bedroom, two bathroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-sa-worrolong-132075426" target="_blank">21 Eldridge Drive, Worrolong</a> (pictured below) was sold for $610,000 in April.</p>
<p><span>Set on a 4,225sqm allotment, the home offers open plan living area, study, separate formal lounge, gourmet kitchen and alfresco area. </span></p>
<p><span><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/2020/8/14/worrolong.jpg" alt=""></span></p>
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<p><span>"While demand is limited for properties around the $700,000 range within Mount Gambier, there is greater demand for these properties in the popular coastal township of Robe," the valuation firm said. </span></p>
<p><span>The report suggests in Robe, $700,000 will allow you to purchase either a centrally located dwelling or a dwelling with ocean or lake views, such as the sale below.</span></p>
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<p>A three bedroom, two bathroom waterfront house situated at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-sa-robe-129832542" target="_blank">18 Woolundry Road, Robe</a> (pictured below) was sold for $720,000 last year. </p>
<p><span>The Cape-Cod style home comes with open plan kitchen/dining/living, chef's kitchen and lush garden. </span></p>
<p><span><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/2020/8/14/robe.jpg" alt=""></span></p>
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What a lazy $700,000 can buy in Mount Gambier: HTW residential 

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<p>The Mildura local market continues to show some uncertainty with many agents still reporting reluctance by many vendors to put their homes on the market, according to the July Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. </p>
<p>The valuation firm took a look at how a budget of $700,000 could be invested in property markets across the nation.</p>
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<p><span>"This is more evident in the higher value range due to concerns that buyers may not yet be willing to pay a substantial amount in this time of uncertainty. </span>Sales that are occurring indicate that values have held up well so far," the valuation firm said. </p>
<p><span>The report notes within the local market, $700,000 is still considered a higher value range property, however as the local market has increased steadily over recent times, this amount has started to become more common. </span></p>
<p><span>"$700,000 will purchase a large home located in an inner-city location in Mildura, or an above average standard dwelling in a modern subdivision on an allotment of up to 1,000 square metres. </span></p>
<p><span>"Within the inner city, it is possible at this price point to find an older, extensively renovated dwelling in a preferred location," the valuation firm said. </span></p>
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<p>The report suggests a recent example is <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-mildura-132272454" target="_blank">26 Walnut Avenue, Mildura </a>(pictured below), which sold in January 2020 for $680,000.</p>
<p><span> This property is in an inner-city location and includes an older home which has been recently renovated to a high standard and includes a pool.</span></p>
<p><span> <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/2020/8/14/mildura%201.jpg" alt=""></span></p>
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<p><span>Surrounding Mildura are a number of well- regarded smaller towns such as Gol Gol, Nichols Point and Irymple, which include good quality homes on larger allotments ranging from 2,000 to 6,000 square metres. </span></p>
<p><span>For around $700,000 it is possible to find modern homes built within the last ten to 15 years which include good ancillary improvements such as sheds, pools and extensive landscaping, the report noted. </span></p>
<p><span>Buyers at this price point tend to prefer locations that are within a ten-minute drive of Mildura and which are connected to filtered town water.</span></p>
<p><span>The report suggests a recent example is 297 Irymple Avenue, Nichols Point (pictured below), which sold in December 2019 for $716,000.</span></p>
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<p><span>This property comprises a 2,576 square metre allotment improved with a circa 2005 built brick home featuring a pool, large shed and significant landscaping.</span></p>
<p><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/2020/8/14/nichols%20point.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>These higher value homes are suited to owner- occupiers as investors chase higher rental returns at a lower price point. </p>
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<p><span>"For investors, our advice would be to purchase two smaller, but still modern dwellings for $350,000 each, three older dwellings in secondary locations for $200,000 each or even a large block of flats (however there are few such blocks of flats at this price point).</span></p>
<p><span>"All of these would provide a more attractive return, of around five to seven per cent as opposed to a high-quality single dwelling. Mildura’s vacancy rates are still very low, meaning that finding tenants is generally straightforward," the valuation firm said. </span></p>
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What a lazy $700,000 can buy in Mildura: HTW residential 

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<p>Once a destination for weekend getaways, the Geelong area has been reimaged as an ideal lifestyle for families, according to the July HTW residential report. </p>
<p>The valuation firm took a look at how a budget of $700,000 could be invested in property markets across the nation.</p>
<p>Immersed in nature, but remaining in close proximity to the bright lights of the city, Geelong provides the answer for those seeking a solid investment or a place to call home, the report noted. </p>
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<p><span>"It’s well known by many that in Geelong you most certainly can get more bang for your buck when it comes to the property market," the valuation firm said. </span></p>
<p><span>With Geelong also now being a well-established city in itself, hosting 250,000 plus residents, it’s turning into one of the most sought after locations.</span></p>
<p><span>"$700,000 in Geelong can go a long way and can most definitely provide anyone looking within this range with a fantastic home for whatever they require," the valuation firm said.</span></p>
<p><span> Whether it be a large double storey family </span>home or a sleek and modern single storey home in a nice area, most would be able to find what they need within this price range.</p>
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<p><span>The report noted an example of what is out there for around the $700,000 mark is below:</span></p>
<p><span><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/2020/8/14/armstrong%20creek.jpg" alt=""></span></p>
<p>A five bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-armstrong+creek-133180182" target="_blank">31-35 Sirrom Crescent, Armstrong Creek</a> (pictured above) has recently been sold for $765,000.</p>
<p><span>The contemporary home comes with five bedrooms, three living zones, triple garage, alfresco and backyard. </span></p>
<p><span>It is located just 10 minutes to Torquay and 15 minutes from the CBD. </span></p>
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What a lazy $700,000 can buy in Geelong: HTW residential 

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<p>Melbourne’s western suburbs have rapidly evolved over the past ten years, according to the July Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. </p>
<p>The valuation firm took a look at how a budget of $700,000 could be invested in property markets across the nation. </p>
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<p><span>The report suggests Melbourne’s housing market has always seemed somewhat unattainable for many, however figures released have shown that Melton and Wyndham are affordable and desirable options with larger blocks of land and bigger homes.</span></p>
<p><span>The city of Melton is proving a popular choice according to realestate.com.au. It is also the cheapest suburb in Melbourne, with a median price of $390,000.</span></p>
<p><span>Those looking for large blocks and new modern houses could consider Rockbank, Caroline Springs </span>and Plumpton at a median price of $700,000, which is an attractive choice for first home buyers and families, the report noted. </p>
<p>"Melbourne’s western area is spoilt for choice around the $700,000 mark compared to that of more expensive inner Melbourne suburbs where purchasing a nice home in that range is simply not possible," the valuation firm said. </p>
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<p><span>The report suggests the Australian dream of a big home and backyard is attainable in the western suburbs.</span></p>
<p><span> It is an area that is affordable and ever developing which is why it has attracted so many first home buyers and investors looking to break into the property market. </span></p>
<p><span>T</span>he convenience of being close to the city combined with the benefits of not actually being in the heart of the city has rapidly increased its population growth.</p>
<p><span>Some examples of what you can expect around the $700,000 mark are as follows, the report noted. </span></p>
<p><span><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/2020/8/14/taylors%20hill.jpg" alt=""></span></p>
<p>The five bedroom, three bathroom house at<a href="https://m.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-taylors+hill-133332806" target="_blank"> 37 Nicholson Terrace</a> (pictured above) has been sold for $768,000.</p>
<p><span>It comes with three living zones, functional kitchen, pergola area and oversized double garage. </span></p>
<p><span>It is located within close primality to schools, transport and shops. </span></p>
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<p><span>Compare this to a well-established, higher socio economic region within Melbourne’s west such as Williamstown. </span></p>
<p><span>It is considered much more difficult to obtain a nice house for the $700,000 price </span>bracket within this region as the median house price is $1.35 million.</p>
<p>"Realistically, only small units and apartments in Williamstown can be purchased for this price," the valuation firm said. </p>
<p>The report noted an example of what you could expect is as follows.</p>
<p><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/2020/8/14/williamstown.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>A two bedroom apartment at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-williamstown-133618502" target="_blank">105/133 Railway Place, Williamstown</a> (pictured above) has been sold for $675,000.</p>
<p>The apartment comprises two large bedrooms, one bathroom, internal balcony, and secure car space with storage. </p>
<p>It is set within the top Williamstown school zones. </p>
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What a lazy $700,000 can buy in Melbourne's western suburbs: HTW Residential 

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<p>The State Government's NSW Public Spaces Legacy Program - which provides green space funding for local councils - has been wholeheartedly welcomed</p>
<p><span style="font-size: 12.16px;">The announcement of a $250 million program that incentivises the fast-tracking of development assessments with funding for councils to deliver more public spaces is great news for jobs in the property development sector, the environment and the community.</span></p>
<p>Local councils that focus on fast-tracking development assessments for projects that deliver much-needed jobs and housing will be eligible for up to $5.5 million each in funding for parklands, town squares and main streets under the program.</p>
<p>The program is available to the 68 councils currently participating in the e-planning system.</p>
<p>It is great to see the NSW Government provide councils with this incentive to fast-track the assessment of projects identified under the Planning System Acceleration Program.</p>
<p>It is all very well for Local planning strategies to call for greater funds for open space – but this adds to the costs for new home buyers. This new government funding stream which totals $250 million will support the so the acquisition and land and works to create playgrounds and green spaces.</p>
<p>The approach of providing funding directly to councils to deliver new and improved public spaces will help unlock significant construction jobs during the economic shock of COVID-19 by reducing the "local green space" contributions" paid initially by developers, but ultimately added to the cost of new homes.</p>
<p>This new initiative will reduce the burden on new home buyers and is an important step in ensuring high quality local amenity.</p>
<p><strong>TOM FORREST</strong> <em>is the Urban Taskforce CEO</em></p>
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Public Spaces Legacy Program welcomed by Urban Taskforce: Tom Forrest

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<p>There are the Boxing Day sales, and there was this week’s rush of extremely cashed-up investors desperate to get a slice of this week’s rare 31-year government bond auction.</p>
<p>What’s a bond? What’s a bond auction? We’ll get to those shortly.</p>
<p>First, just know that the government received <a href="https://www.aofm.gov.au/program/forthcoming-transactions/pricing-new-june-2051-treasury-bond" target="_blank">A$36.8 billion</a> of bids, <a href="https://www.afr.com/markets/debt-markets/new-30-yr-government-bond-attracts-over-20b-of-bids-20200727-p55frl" target="_blank">$20 billion</a> of them within hours of opening the two-day auction on Monday.</p>
<p>It had been wanting to move <a href="https://www.aofm.gov.au/program/forthcoming-transactions/pricing-new-june-2051-treasury-b" target="_blank">$15 billion</a>, and could have moved that much again.</p>
<p>$15 billion makes it the third biggest bond sale in Australian history. The two bigger were recent – a $19 billion ten-year bond sale in May and a $17 billion five-year bond sale in July.</p>
<p>Each sale nets the government money it won’t have to pay back for five, ten or 31 years at rates of interest that until recently would have been unthinkably low. </p>
<p>The 31-year bond went for 1.94%. That means the foreign and Australian investors who bought them (including Australian super funds) were prepared to accept less than the usual rate of inflation right through until 2051 in return for regular government-guaranteed interest cheques.</p>
<p>Investors who bought ten year bonds were prepared to accept only 0.92% per year, investors who bought five year bonds, only 0.40%.</p>
<h2>What’s a bond?</h2>
<p>Even bond traders find it hard to get a handle on what bonds are. In his novel <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/306424.Bombardiers" target="_blank">Bombardiers</a>, author Po Bronson writes a scene where a bond trader refuses to work any more and demands to see an actual bond, “any kind of bond”.</p>
<p>He tells his boss he can’t sell bonds “if he’s never seen one”.</p>
<p>Like many things that used to exist physically, they’re now mainly numbers on screens, but it helps to get a picture.</p>
<p>This one is a US 27-year bond from 1945.</p>
<p><a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/350098/original/file-20200729-33-u4eet9.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=1000&amp;fit=clip"><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/350098/original/file-20200729-33-u4eet9.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" alt=""></a> <span class="attribution"><a class="source" href="https://www.theherbstmancollection.com/dedication" target="_blank">The Joe I. Herbstman Memorial Collection</a></span></p>
<p>The biggest part of the paper is a promise to repay the US$1000 it cost, in 27 years time.</p>
<p>The smaller rectangles are called coupons, and each year the owner can tear one off and take it in to get 2.5%.</p>
<p>If the owner wants to sell the bond to someone else (and bonds are traded all the time) it’ll be sold with one coupon missing after one year, two coupons missing after two years, and so on.</p>
<h2>When rates fall, prices rise</h2>
<p>The price of a bond will vary with what’s happening to interest rates. If they are falling, an existing bond, offering returns at old rates, will become more expensive and can be sold at a profit. If they go up, an existing bond will become worth less and have to be sold at a loss.</p>
<p>It leads to confusion. When bond rates fall, bond prices rise, and visa versa.</p>
<p>For half a decade now bond rates have been falling. They’ve fallen further during the COVID crisis, making bonds a doubly good investment. They offer superannuation funds and others certainty at a time when everything seems uncertain, and if rates continue to fall they increase in value.</p>
<p>It is an indictment of our times that so many investors want them. The government’s <a href="https://www.aofm.gov.au/" target="_blank">office of financial management</a> is going to need to sell an extra $167 billion over the coming year. The rush to buy suggests it could sell more.<img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/143598/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important; text-shadow: none !important;"></p>
<p><span><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/peter-martin-682709" target="_blank">Peter Martin</a>, Visiting Fellow, <em><a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/crawford-school-of-public-policy-australian-national-university-3292" target="_blank">Crawford School of Public Policy, Australian National University</a></em></span></p>
<p>This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com" target="_blank">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/the-government-has-just-sold-15-billion-of-31-year-bonds-but-what-actually-is-a-bond-143598" target="_blank">original article</a>.</p>
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The government has just sold $15 billion of 31-year bonds

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<p>Older women have been recognised as the fastest-growing group of homeless people in Australia in recent years.</p>
<p>Yet until now we have not known exactly how many older women are at risk of homelessness. Our research, released today, finds about 240,000 women aged 55 or older and another 165,000 women aged 45-54 are at risk of homelessness.</p>
<p>The startling data from our research give us a much better picture of the scale of the problem. We also quantify the impacts of the various factors that may increase women’s risk of becoming homeless.</p>
<p>Effective policy is grounded in quantifying the nature and complexity of issues. To date, a limited but <a href="https://humanrights.gov.au/our-work/age-discrimination/publications/older-womens-risk-homelessness-background-paper-2019" target="_blank">growing number</a> of <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.aag.asn.au/documents/item/2234" target="_blank">studies</a> have highlighted the experiences of older women who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. But few studies quantified the numbers at risk and the factors that increase the risk.</p>
<h2>What puts women at risk?<span style="font-family: Tahoma, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.15999984741211px;"> </span>
</h2>
<p>Older people are generally considered to be at less risk of homelessness because of their <a href="https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/australias-welfare/home-ownership-and-housing-tenure" target="_blank">higher rates of home ownership</a>. But increasingly <a href="https://cepar.edu.au/resources-videos/research-briefs/housing-ageing-australia-nest-and-nest-egg" target="_blank">unaffordable housing</a> has added to <a href="https://www.smh.com.au/national/home-ownership-now-the-great-divider-of-australian-society-20190919-p52syz" target="_blank">concerns</a> about the circumstances and living situations of older people who do not own homes, have limited wealth and savings and do not have the benefit of living in social housing. These households rely on the private rental market and are at considerable risk of <a href="https://www.anglicare.asn.au/research-advocacy/the-rental-affordability-snapshot/docs/default-source/default-document-library/rental-affordability-snapshot-2020" target="_blank">housing affordability stress</a> and hence homelessness.</p>
<p>To examine risk profiles, we constructed an empirical model of risk of homelessness since the 2007-09 Global Financial Crisis using data from the <a href="https://melbourneinstitute.unimelb.edu.au/hilda" target="_blank">Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia (HILDA) Survey</a>. The modelling included people who hold a mortgage or pay rent in private or public housing and are aged 45 or older.</p>
<p>This work found older women are more likely to be at risk of homelessness if they have one or more of the following characteristics:</p>
<p>• have been at risk before</p>
<p>• are not employed full-time</p>
<p>• are an immigrant from a non-English-speaking country</p>
<p>• are in private rental housing</p>
<p>• would have difficulty raising emergency funds</p>
<p>• are Indigenous</p>
<p>• are a lone-person household</p>
<p>• are a lone parent (but little evidence for those never married).</p>
<p>We estimated these profiles using a statistical model to analyse the relationship between homelessness risk and the characteristics of interest. We controlled for other characteristics that are likely to influence the risk of becoming homeless but which were not the focus of the study.</p>
<h2>Risk factors compound each other</h2>
<p>Multiple factors compound the risk of being homeless. While noting sampling limitations (small samples in subgroups of the data and annual volatility), the HILDA data for the post-GFC period suggest:</p>
<ul>
<li>
<p>for women aged 55-64 in a private rental, about 28% are likely to be at risk</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>for women who are also not employed full-time the percentage at risk increases to about 34%</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>for those who are also a lone parent the risk rises to over 65%</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>the risk increases to over 85% if, in addition, they have experienced at least one prior occurrence of being at risk.</p>
</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/349837/original/file-20200728-23-15z661u.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=1000&amp;fit=clip"><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/349837/original/file-20200728-23-15z661u.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" alt="Bar chart shows how a women's risk of homeless increases with each extra risk factor"></a></p>
<p><span class="attribution"><span class="source">Data: HILDA Survey</span>, <span class="license">Author provided</span></span></p>
<p>Clearly, a person’s propensity to be at risk of homelessness is cumulative over time.</p>
<h2>Why the numbers at risk will grow</h2>
<p>Our estimates of the numbers of people at risk are accurate to within plus or minus 10%. Based on Australian Bureau of Statistics <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/abs@.nsf/mf/3236.0" target="_blank">population projections</a>, it is clear that, without changes to policy, these numbers are likely to increase due to one important factor. The model shows a lone-person household is a dominant factor in increasing the likely risk of homelessness.</p>
<p>Lone-person households are expected to comprise 24-27% of all households by 2041. This equates to between 3.0 and 3.5 million Australians (of all ages). Female lone-person households are projected to increase by between 27.6% and 58.8% (ABS 2019b).</p>
<p>Australia has made <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-02-11/flat-wages-soaring-house-prices-australians-lifetime-renting/11898122" target="_blank">little policy progress on housing affordability</a>. We also have a <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.ahuri.edu.au/research/final-reports/306" target="_blank">severe shortage of social housing</a> to meet demand. This points to the need to pursue other avenues to improve the lives of older low-income households.</p>
<p>The Ageing on the Edge Older Persons Homelessness Prevention Project – funded by the <a href="https://www.eqt.com.au/philanthropy/jo-and-jr-wicking-trust" target="_blank">JO and JR Wicking Trust</a> and administered by Housing for the Aged Action Group (<a href="https://www.oldertenants.org.au/haag/about" target="_blank">HAAG</a>) – has worked over the past five years to give voice to these older women who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. The project works with interested agencies (government and non-government) to identify and promote early intervention and prevention strategies and to lobby for government policy change.</p>
<p>Of course, there is one simple answer to achieving long-term outcomes that allow people the basics of a decent older age: an appropriate affordable home.<img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/142906/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important; text-shadow: none !important;"></p>
<p><span><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/debbie-faulkner-1137108" target="_blank">Debbie Faulkner</a>, Senior Research Fellow, UniSA Business, <em><a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-south-australia-1180" target="_blank">University of South Australia</a></em> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/laurence-lester-1139402" target="_blank">Laurence Lester</a>, Senior Research Fellow, Centre for Housing, Urban and Regional Planning, <em><a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-adelaide-1119" target="_blank">University of Adelaide</a></em></span></p>
<p>This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com" target="_blank">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/400-000-women-over-45-are-at-risk-of-homelessness-in-australia-142906" target="_blank">original article</a>.</p>
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400,000 women over 45 are at risk of homelessness in Australia

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<p class="legacy">In an apparent about face, the NSW government has halved land tax for developers of build-to-rent housing.</p>
<p>It came weeks after the the Treasurer Dominic Perrottet launched a report that called for a <a href="https://www.treasury.nsw.gov.au/draft-report" target="_blank">greater reliance on land tax</a> as a replacement for stamp duty.</p>
<p>The greater reliance on land tax is a long-term goal. At the moment family homes are exempt, along with boarding houses, caravan parks, retirement villages and farms. Most other users pay land tax, including <a href="https://www.revenue.nsw.gov.au/squiz-sandbox/land-tax/exemptions-and-concessions" target="_blank">landlords</a> and businesses.</p>
<p>The change will give developers who invest in build-to-rent schemes offering <a href="https://www.smh.com.au/politics/nsw/nsw-to-cut-land-tax-for-20-years-in-ambitious-build-to-rent-scheme-20200728-p55gbm.htm" target="_blank">long tenancies</a> a 50% discount on their land tax for 20 years.</p>
<h2>Why build-to-rent?</h2>
<p>Most Australian rental properties are owned by individuals, units in apartment blocks as well as free-standing houses. Half are owned by landlords with only one property; <a href="https://grattan.edu.au/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/901-Housing-affordability.pdf" target="_blank">three quarters</a> by landlords with only one or two properties.</p>
<p>If you want to rent from a corporation, or from someone with wide experience in owning and renting properties, you’ll find it hard.</p>
<p>It makes Australia unusual.</p>
<p><a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/350346/original/file-20200730-17-1kp56wj.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=1000&amp;fit=clip"><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/350346/original/file-20200730-17-1kp56wj.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=237&amp;fit=clip" alt=""></a></p>
<p><span class="caption">Nails in walls can cause problems for tenants.</span></p>
<p>In other countries corporations rent out housing, <a href="https://theconversation.com/what-australia-can-learn-from-overseas-about-the-future-of-rental-housing-90401" target="_blank">big time</a>. America’s five largest corporate landlords own 420,000 properties. Germany’s largest landlord, Vonovia, owns more than 330,000.</p>
<p>Overseas experience suggests corporations provide more affordable housing, and in many ways they make better landlords.</p>
<p>Individuals who own just one property have put most of their eggs in one basket.</p>
<p>Because they can’t afford for anything to go wrong they check the condition of the property regularly.</p>
<p>They prohibit nails in walls and pets, and typically offer only short-term leases.</p>
<p>Corporations can play the law of averages.</p>
<p>Because they know most properties will be well maintained they are satisfied with less-frequent inspections. They allow modifications, and typically offer long-term leases.</p>
<p>They offer an experience pretty close to ownership, in return for rent.</p>
<p>It’s this that the NSW government wants to encourage.</p>
<p>To ensure it happens and to ensure built-to-rents don’t revert to the Australian pattern of individual investors owning individual units, it will specify that the apartments have at least 50 units and are managed under <a href="https://nsw.liberal.org.au/Shared-Content/News/2020/LAND-TAX-CUT-TO-DRIVE-BUILD-TO-RENT-REVOLUTION" target="_blank">unified ownership</a>.</p>
<h2>Tax makes it hard</h2>
<p>At the moment such developments are discriminated against when it comes to land tax. No tax is due if the land value is below a threshold.</p>
<p>Individual landlords are usually below the threshold (some spreading their portfolio between multiple states to ensure they don’t trigger each state’s threshold).</p>
<p>Wholly-owned apartment blocks are above the threshold and can’t escape it. University of Technology Sydney calculations suggest land tax on build-to-rent developments can consume up to 27% of the annual rent collected.</p>
<p>And they are subject to goods and services tax. They can reclaim some of it but not all.</p>
<p>The announcement comes at a time when the COVID crisis has cut stamp duty receipts and created an oversupply of vacant apartments, particularly around universities.</p>
<p>The initiative appears to have been crafted before the crisis and to be more forward looking. Many of the build-to-rent projects will take years to complete.</p>
<h2>It’s about changing the mix</h2>
<p>That said, any extra building activity will support the construction industry and extra stock will reduce home prices and rents.</p>
<p>The initiative doesn’t spell the end of mum and dad landlords. They will still predominate for a long time.</p>
<p>It’s about providing options and security for tenants that isn’t widely available and will become more important as a <a href="https://theconversation.com/the-edges-of-home-ownership-are-becoming-porous-its-no-longer-a-one-way-street-119995" target="_blank">greater proportion of Australians rent</a>.</p>
<p>Other states will be taking note.</p>
<p>For a government that wants to eventually make land tax universal, the 50% cut is a step in the wrong direction. It might have been better to remove the threshold for small landlords.</p>
<p>But there’s no sign the NSW government has given up on its longer term goal. It’s unlikely to be the last time land tax rules are changed.<img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/143594/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important; text-shadow: none !important;"></p>
<p><span><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/harry-scheule-3573" target="_blank">Harry Scheule</a>, Professor, Finance, UTS Business School, <em><a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-technology-sydney-936" target="_blank">University of Technology Sydney</a></em></span></p>
<p>This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com" target="_blank">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/why-nsw-is-skewing-its-tax-system-toward-build-to-rent-apartments-and-away-from-mum-and-pop-landlords-143594" target="_blank">original article</a>.</p>
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Why NSW is skewing its tax system toward build-to-rent apartments and away from mum and pop landlords

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<p>The focus of attention in the Central Coast Region market now seems to be on recovery and future planning, according to the July Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. </p>

<p>The valuation firm took a look at how a budget of $700,000 could be invested in property markets across the nation. </p>

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<p><strong>NSW Central Coast Region Coronavirus Update</strong></p>
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<p>The report notes in line with many regions, there have been little reports of new cases of COVID-19 for some time.</p>

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<p><span>For many, life seems to be returning to normal. The tourist and visitor centres of Terrigal, The Entrance and Ettalong Beach have been busy for the past several weekends as crowds return.</span></p>

<p><span>"Recovery will be as big a challenge as the restrictions and lockdowns themselves. Looking around, a number of businesses have suffered terribly and some have closed. But confidence is returning. </span></p>

<p><span>"Tempering this new confidence, our health professionals are reminding us that we may not have seen the end of this with a second wave likely," the valuation firm said. </span></p>
</div>

<div class="column">
<p><strong>What will a lazy $700,000 buy in the Central Coast region of New South Wales</strong></p>

<p><span>A quick snapshot of some suburbs where investing $700k seems to be a good idea, the report noted. </span></p>

<p><span><strong>Wadalba</strong> – </span><span>a newish and still developing suburb located towards the northern end of the region with plenty of schools, shops and easy access to the M1 Motorway.</span></p>

<p><span>A typical new project style dwelling, single level with four bedrooms, two bathrooms and double garage, recently sold for $690,000. </span></p>

<p><span>"With slightly older two-storey options available for similar prices, we consider these to represent good value for first home buyers and growing families finding the area to their liking," the valuation firm said. </span></p>

<p><span>Values have remained static overall over the year, so buying for quick financial gain isn’t great and returns are estimated at around the 4.5 to five per cent mark which is acceptable. Comparable suburbs to Wadalba include Hamlyn Terrace and Woongarrah, the report noted. </span></p>

<p><span>A four bedroom, two bathroom home in Wadalba has recently been sold for $591,500. </span></p>

<p>The single level home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-wadalba-133071962" target="_blank">7 Voyager Street </a>(pictured below) comes with expansive kitchen, dining area, lounge room, four bedrooms and fully fenced yard. </p>

<p><span>It is located close to schools, supermarkets and parks. </span></p>

<p><span><img alt="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/8/3/wadalba.jpg"></span></p>

<p><span><strong>The Entrance</strong> – </span><span>one of the region’s older suburbs which sits between the ocean and lake. </span>It is the day tripper and visitor centre at the northern end of our region, the report noted. </p>

<p>Although there is a large permanent and long term occupant population (renters account for approximately 60 per cent of the area’s occupants), the area is very popular with the weekender market.</p>

<p>Units prevail in the town centre due to the ocean and lake views, shops and beach.</p>

<p>"We note that $700,000 can buy a two- bedroom unit with views within the town centre. But $700,000 is heading towards the higher end of unit values at The Entrance and we feel the more attractive options would be in the $350,000 to $400,000 price range for older units with lesser views," the valuation firm said. </p>

<p>This price range has been more consistent in terms of price stability and returns which seem to be around the 4.5 per cent mark on a permanent occupancy basis.</p>
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<p><span><strong>Bateau Bay</strong> – </span><span>another of the region’s more established suburbs. </span>The Entrance runs through the suburb thus creating two distinct markets.</p>

<p><span>The eastern (ocean) side is generally the more expensive option. If $700,000 is the marker, then good value on the no less popular western side of The Entrance Road is available. </span></p>

<p><span>Generally older style but well established and accessorised property is the norm. </span></p>

<p><span>An 80’s style, large, four- bedroom, single level dwelling with two bathrooms and double garage has just sold for $710,000 and a renovated 80’s style four-bedroom, two-bathroom dwelling with inground pool and off street parking recently sold for $685,000. These represent good value for those aspiring to live in Bateau Bay, the report noted. </span></p>

<p><span><strong>Terrigal</strong> – </span><span>some would suggest that only good things happen at Terrigal and if price point is the gauge, there may be some foundation to this. </span></p>

<p><span>$700,000 will likely secure an old style, rundown dwelling or perhaps a two- or three-bedroom unit or townhouse away from the town centre. </span></p>

<p><span>"You might however get a vacant block of land with a little change left over – but you will need to be quick," the valuation firm said. </span></p>

<p><span>Next door Wamberal shares these same qualities, with Erina to the west being not far behind, the report noted. </span></p>

<p><span>A current listing is a one bedroom apartment in Terrigal priced at $699,000.</span></p>

<p>The contemporary apartment at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-unit-nsw-terrigal-133757722" target="_blank">3/10 Pine Tree Lane</a> (pictured below) comprises large bedroom, study, open plan lounge and dining area, and garage. </p>

<p><span>It is set in a boutique complex, only metres walk to cafes, restaurants and Terrigal Beach. </span></p>

<p><span><img alt="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/8/3/terrigal%201.jpg"></span></p>

<p><span><strong>Point Clare</strong> – </span><span>sitting on the western shores of Brisbane Waters, this is an older and established location with just a short drive to meet up with the M1 Motorway. </span></p>

<p><span>"Surprisingly, Point Clare has never been an area at the top of mind. We don’t know why, because there are a number of properties that can be purchased for less than $700,000," the valuation firm said. </span></p>

<p><span>An 80’s style, slightly compact, four-bedder with single </span>garage, landscaping and inground pool recently sold for $680,000.</p>

<p>While the median value across the region has fallen just a little over the past year, Point Clare has actually increased – just a little.</p>

<p>The area is predominantly owner-occupied with returns estimated to be around the 4.5 per cent mark.</p>
</div>

<div class="column">
<p><span><strong>Umina Beach</strong> – located towards the southern end of the region, Umina Beach, Woy Woy and Ettalong Beach enjoyed better than average value increases, but since September 2018, the median value has steadily declined and is approximately ten per cent lower. </span></p>

<p><span>Rentals account for around 30 per cent of properties in Umina Beach with the remainder being owner-occupied. Due to the high number of second dwellings in Umina Beach, we tend to think there is a hybrid factor going on here with owners remaining in their dwellings while renting out the second dwelling.</span></p>

<p><span>In value terms, there are still a lot of properties being sold under or around the $700,000 mark. </span></p>

<p><span>A renovated three-bedroom, one-bathroom dwelling with plenty of undercover parking recently sold for $700,000 whilst a similar dwelling, but minus the parking sold for $670,000.</span></p>

<p><span>Older, more basic dwellings with the potential to add a second dwelling are selling for similar prices, the report noted. </span></p>
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<p>The focus of attention now seems to be on recovery and future planning.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=5559]</p>
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What a lazy $700,000 can buy in NSW Central Coast Region: HTW residential  

<p>The new <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/yarraville-green-42-stephen-street-yarraville-vic-3013">Yarraville Green</a> development in Melbourne's inner west is showing that landscaping can be just as influential as architecture, with buyers responding strongly to the garden-first approach adopted from the outset by developer Excelon Projects and the project's design team.</p>

<p>Excelon appointed Six Degrees Architects and landscape architects SBLA to work collaboratively on the development, with a brief to create "a sustainable, design-led building with a focus on community."</p>

<p>That approach has resonated with buyers. According to Next Chapter Director Tom Hirini, who is leading the sales campaign, the landscaped communal garden has become one of the project's defining features, alongside its boutique scale and European-inspired cluster housing concept.</p>

<p>Local downsizers, right-sizers and established families already living in Yarraville and surrounding suburbs have accounted for the majority of purchasers.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=144913 project_image_fid=297740]</p>

<p>Yarraville Green will comprise 53 homes, including apartments and townhomes, arranged around the shared central garden to maximise connections to the landscaped open space. Parking has been moved underground, allowing the ground plane to be dedicated to greenery, pedestrian movement and communal spaces.</p>

<p>The landscape extends well beyond passive planting. Productive garden beds, a pergola, communal gathering spaces, garden sheds and a pet wash have all been integrated into the masterplan, creating spaces designed to encourage everyday interaction between residents.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=144913 project_image_fid=297741]</p>

<p>The interiors continue Excelon's focus on craftsmanship, incorporating bespoke elements by Melbourne artisans including leadlight detailing by Adadaz, hand-turned timber hardware by Auburn Woodturning and blown-glass lighting by Ruth Allen.</p>

<p>Sustainability has also been embedded throughout the project, with Yarraville Green targeting an average 7-star NatHERS energy rating through passive design principles, rooftop solar servicing common areas and rainwater harvesting for landscape irrigation.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=144913 project_image_fid=297735]</p>

<p>Construction continues to progress at Yarraville Green, with structural works well underway and framing works approaching completion under builder Balmain &amp; Co. The project remains on track for completion in mid-2027.</p>

<p>Apartments at Yarraville Green are currently priced from $625,000, while townhomes start from $1.4 million.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=144913]</p>


Joel Robinson

Garden-led design drives buyer demand at Yarraville Green

<p>National diversified developer Fortis has officially launched Crest &amp; Walker, its latest Brisbane apartment development, with construction now underway on the 20-storey Newstead project.</p>

<p>Award-winning builder BINAH has commenced construction on the Bureau^Proberts-designed building, which will deliver a limited collection of 65 two and three-bedroom apartments on Kyabra Street.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373556]</p>

<p>The project marks Fortis' fourth active residential development in Brisbane, following River House, which is nearing completion, alongside projects in New Farm and Hamilton as the national developer continues to expand its South East Queensland pipeline.</p>

<p>Fortis General Manager – Development Queensland Dan Boman said Crest &amp; Walker reflects the developer's long-term commitment to delivering design-led residential projects in Brisbane's established inner-city suburbs.</p>

<p>"We're proud to be strengthening our presence in Brisbane with Crest &amp; Walker, particularly in such a sought-after lifestyle destination as Newstead," Boman said.</p>

<p>"Every Fortis project is shaped by its context, and we approach each one with the respect and care it deserves.</p>

<p>"Our focus is always on creating places that feel connected to their neighbourhood and elevate the everyday experience for residents. Newstead continues to evolve as one of Brisbane's most sought-after urban communities, and Crest &amp; Walker reflects our ambition to contribute meaningfully to that story."</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373559]</p>

<p>Positioned between Gasworks Plaza and James Street, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/crest-walker-newstead-12-kyabra-street-newstead-qld-4006">Crest &amp; Walker</a> has been designed as a boutique residential address offering privacy and generous living spaces within one of Brisbane's most established lifestyle precincts.</p>

<p>The building features a contemporary brick podium softened by integrated landscaping, while the upper levels are characterised by restrained architecture and enduring materiality. Interiors have been designed to maximise natural light, acoustic performance and long-term liveability.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373583]</p>

<p>Residences comprise spacious two and three-bedroom floorplans, with two-bedroom apartments priced from $1.55 million and three-bedroom, half-floor residences from $3.95 million.</p>

<p>Residents will have access to a wellness-focused rooftop featuring a swimming pool, sauna, steam room, landscaped dining spaces and outdoor lounge areas overlooking Newstead and the Brisbane CBD.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373571]</p>

<p>Sales are being managed by Slaite Projects, with Fortis expecting strong demand from owner-occupiers seeking a high-quality, design-focused apartment in one of Brisbane's most tightly held inner-city suburbs.</p>

<p>Completion of Crest &amp; Walker is slated for late 2028.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=145922]</p>


Fortis expands Brisbane pipeline with launch of Crest & Walker in Newstead

<p>The enormity of delivering a true skyscraper in Australia's new development market is often overlooked.</p>

<p>It has taken the best part of a decade since plans for Chevron One were first unveiled, but the 41-storey tower is now complete, with residents collecting their keys and moving into what has become one of the Gold Coast's most recognisable new landmarks.</p>

<p>Rising 127 metres above Chevron Island, Chevron One stands almost twice as high as any other building on the island. Its scale places it alongside the trio of towers at Jewel, arguably the last truly significant addition to the central Gold Coast skyline when they were completed around six years ago.</p>

<p>While there are several developments underway around a similar height to Chevron One, they are more concentrated within clusters of the highest towers in the city. The fact Chevron One sits within a developing precinct, looking back at the other high-rise developments in Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach, makes it a different proposition altogether. It will certainly become a reference point on the Gold Coast skyline.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=68833]</p>

<p>Developer Bensons Property Group is behind the 41-storey tower, which has 229 apartments, along with an exhaustive list of resident amenity spread across what is the largest development site ever assembled on Chevron Island.</p>

<p>The tower has been the talk of the town for years, says Ray White Projects Gold Coast agent Caitlin Rosenboom, who is selling the remaining apartments.</p>

<p>"People have been watching Chevron One go up for years," Rosenboom says, adding that many prospective buyers have been surprised by the scale of the views once they step inside.</p>

<p>"It's only when they walk through a completed apartment that they truly understand the position of the building," Rosenboom says.</p>

<p>"The views are jaw-dropping. Whether you're looking east over the ocean, across Surfers Paradise, along the river systems or out to the hinterland, every level offers something different but equally impressive."</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=360215]</p>

<p>One of Chevron One's defining advantages is its location on the eastern side of Chevron Island on Stanhill Drive, a position which protects the views forever.</p>

<p>"There's only one row of houses between Chevron One and the water, and the height restrictions along the river means views from Chevron One can never be built out,"&nbsp;Rosenboom says.</p>

<p>While new apartment developments continue to emerge across the Gold Coast, Rosenboom says opportunities to secure a completed apartment with this level of outlook are becoming increasingly rare.</p>

<p>"The size of the site is something that would be incredibly difficult to replicate today," she says.</p>

<p>"That's allowed Chevron One to deliver the sort of amenity, open space and resident facilities that very few projects can offer. There are not many completed apartment buildings on the Gold Coast right now that can compete with the combination of scale, quality and amenity."</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=68839]</p>

<p>There's around 2,000 sqm of amenity solely for the use of residents of Chevron One. Club One features a uniquely shaped swimming pool that mirrors the footprint of the building itself, set within a extensively landscaped gardens. There's also an indoor pool and spa, a fully equipped gym with a Pilates room, a yoga garden, a bookable private dining area and lounge that can host up to 30 people, and a 24-hour concierge service.</p>

<p>As for the buyers, Rosenboom is fielding enquiry from everywhere: Sydneysiders and Melburnians looking at the new and off-the-plan market following the changes in the Federal Budget, as well as those looking to relocate, through to South East Queenslanders seeking either a permanent home or a weekender bolthole.</p>

<p>"The Gold Coast lifestyle continues to resonate with people relocating from the southern states, and when they see the views and the quality of what's been delivered at Chevron One, it becomes very easy for them to understand the appeal," Rosenboom says.</p>

<p>A diverse mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments remain available, with each offering "something a little different", be it the orientation and views, configuration, or level, to suit a wide variety of buyers.</p>

<p>The remaining apartments are ready to inspect in person, by appointment.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=6515]</p>


A decade in the making: Residents to move into Chevron One as construction wraps up

<p>A general rule of thumb in new apartment developments is that the penthouses get the rooftop.</p>

<p>It's a formula that's become commonplace across Australia's apartment market. Residents might have access to a pool, gym or barbecue facilities on a dedicated lower level, but the most desirable outdoor spaces are typically reserved for the highest-priced homes at the top of the building.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sherpa-property-group">Sherpa Property Group</a> has taken the opposite approach.</p>

<p>Rather than dedicating the rooftop to a handful of buyers, the Gold Coast developer has made it the centrepiece of its Flourish collection, creating expansive shared spaces from the best vantage point in the building.</p>

<p>The philosophy has reached its most ambitious expression at <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> in Palm Beach, where two rooftop precincts connected by a skybridge will deliver one of the most extensive lifestyle offerings seen in a residential apartment project on the Gold Coast.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=374053]</p>

<p>"We're seeing a clear move toward developments that offer more than just an apartment," Sherpa Group founder Christie Leet said.</p>

<p>"People want spaces that support how they actually live, whether that's working from home, staying active, or spending time with family and friends.</p>

<p>"That's where amenity becomes critical. It's not just about what's included, but how those spaces are designed to be used every day."</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=374052]</p>

<p>The breadth of amenity has already attracted buyers across multiple demographics. Younger first home buyers have been drawn to Soleira's one-bedroom apartments, a product rarely delivered in Palm Beach, while families have responded to practical inclusions such as the shallow children's pool adjoining the main lap pool and the extensive communal recreation areas.</p>

<p>Instead of a single rooftop, Soleira delivers two distinct lifestyle zones.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=372547]</p>

<p>The southern rooftop has been dedicated to wellness, featuring a gym, yoga and Pilates studio, work-from-home facilities, a wellness centre, spa, and hot and cold plunge pools.</p>

<p>The northern rooftop focuses on recreation and entertaining, incorporating a heated resort-style pool, private dining rooms, pizza ovens, barbecues, a golf simulator, children's recreation areas, and what is expected to be the Gold Coast's first rooftop basketball court, which will also double as a squash court.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=374054]</p>

<p>Beyond the rooftops, Soleira will introduce 1,500 sqm of curated retail beneath the towers, creating one of Palm Beach's first genuinely mixed-use lifestyle precincts where cafés, restaurants and convenience retail become part of residents' everyday lives.</p>

<p>Sherpa has also retained management rights across the development, allowing it to oversee the long-term operation of the building through a 24-hour concierge model. The developer is also exploring additional revenue streams within the precinct aimed at helping offset ongoing body corporate costs for residents.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=370962]</p>

<p>While Soleira is the largest project Sherpa has delivered, the rooftop-first philosophy has been evolving for several years.</p>

<p>It began with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/amargo-6-12-sixth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Amargo</a>, the first project released under the Flourish brand. Rather than competing at the ultra-luxury end of the market with oversized half-floor and full-floor residences, Sherpa focused on creating lifestyle-driven apartments supported by resort-style shared spaces.</p>

<p>Amargo introduced more than 800 sqm of rooftop amenity, combining wellness facilities, heated pools, entertaining areas, cabanas, pizza ovens and private dining spaces into what was designed as an extension of residents' homes rather than a facility used only occasionally.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=146527 project_image_fid=366550]</p>

<p>That approach continued with Flourish Oasis, where the same amenity-led philosophy was refined into a more boutique development. Strong demand from Sherpa's growing VIP database saw much of the project sold before it reached the broader market, reinforcing buyer appetite for apartment communities centred around shared lifestyle experiences.</p>

<p>Flourish Amargo is slated for completion mid-way-through next year, with Oasis to be delivered by late 2027. Flourish Soleira is expected to complete in 2030.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150017]</p>


Sherpa takes amenity to the sky as Flourish Soleira captures booming Palm Beach demand

<p>As apartment living continues to evolve across Sydney's growth corridors, the quality and distribution of shared spaces is increasingly shaping how residents experience home. Rather than functioning as add-ons, amenities are being embedded into the daily rhythm of a building, supporting everything from quiet retreat to social interaction, often within a single vertical community.</p>

<p>At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/aeris-melrose-park-nursery-street-melrose-park-nsw-2114">Aeris</a> in Melrose Park, this approach is resolved through a layered amenity offering that unfolds from ground level through to its upper podium. Developed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sekisui-house-australia">Sekisui House Australia</a> in partnership with Hankyu Hanshin Properties, the project introduces 468 apartments across two towers and a mid-rise building, positioned at the highest point of the broader masterplan.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=426 project_image_fid=359199]</p>

<p>The amenity experience begins at street level, where two courtyards sit within a landscaped setting that connects residents to the wider network of parks and green spaces. These green spaces are not isolated pockets but part of a wider pedestrian network that links Aeris to the surrounding <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/melrose-park-nsw-2114">Melrose Park</a> precinct, including Central Park, future schools, and the Town Centre opening in July 2026. The result is a transition that moves from public to private without abrupt boundaries, allowing residents to pass through shaded, tree-lined environments before reaching the building itself.</p>

<p>Moving upward, the focus shifts to the level five podium, where the primary communal facilities are concentrated. This space brings together a 16-metre swimming pool, outdoor seating areas, and a communal BBQ zone arranged to take advantage of elevated outlooks. Seating is positioned beneath pergolas, creating pockets of shade that extend the usability of the space throughout the day. The pool edge aligns with views toward the wider district, reinforcing the sense of elevation that defines the project’s positioning.</p>

<p>In the adjacent building, this is complemented by quieter, more contemplative spaces, including an outdoor cinema set within the same level. Positioned to operate primarily in the evening, it introduces a different tempo to the shared environment, shifting from daytime activity to after-hours use without requiring separate zones.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=426 project_image_fid=360299]</p>

<p>The podium also accommodates an intimate private resident gym. Located on the lower levels, it gives residents convenient access to fitness facilities without leaving the building.</p>

<p>Above, the elevated podium sky deck extends the amenity offering, providing additional open-air spaces with elevated outlooks across the surrounding landscape. While more restrained in program, this upper level reinforces the project’s vertical progression, from ground-level greenery to elevated outlook, allowing residents to move between distinct spatial conditions within a single address.</p>

<p>This distribution of amenities reflects a deliberate response to how residents use space across the day. Sekisui House Australia Sales and Marketing Director Peter Kalaf points to the role these shared areas play in shaping buyer demand. Aeris has been conceived as more than a collection of apartments, with the podium pool, gym and outdoor cinema forming part of a broader lifestyle offering that extends the home beyond each individual residence.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=426 project_image_fid=360300]</p>

<p>What distinguishes Aeris is not the inclusion of these elements individually, but how they are arranged in relation to one another. Active, social, and passive spaces are layered vertically rather than separated, allowing residents to choose between them without leaving the building or moving far from their apartment. This proximity supports both routine use, such as a morning swim or evening workout, and more occasional gatherings, whether around the BBQ area or within the cinema setting.</p>

<p>The amenity design also sits within a broader framework of connectivity across Melrose Park. The Melrose Park Town Centre, anchored by Coles and Dan Murphys, features a mix of retail, dining, health and lifestyle offerings, bringing everyday convenience closer to residents. By the end of the year, more than five hectares of parks and open space, equivalent to around seven football fields of green space on residents' doorstep, will further enhance the precinct, allowing the internal facilities at Aeris to operate as an extension of the wider neighbourhood rather than a substitute for it.</p>

<p>Construction at Aeris continues to gather momentum, with ground floor slabs expected to be completed in late 2026 before the first sections of the buildings begin to rise above ground.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=426]</p>


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