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The Australian Taxation Office assistant commissioner Karen Foat predicts there will be a significant rise in negatively geared investors who claim a bigger tax deduction when their COVID-19 rental income does not cover the expense of owning the property.
Despite low interest rates, Australia's 2 million landlords have also missed out on millions of dollars in rental income.
<p data-gtm-vis-recent-on-screen-6236702_632="1593308659117" data-gtm-vis-first-on-screen-6236702_632="1593308659117" data-gtm-vis-total-visible-time-6236702_632="4000" data-gtm-vis-has-fired-6236702_632="1">Landlords collectively typically declare about $43 billion in total rent and $47 billion in deductions, Ms Foat told Nine Entertainment, with around 60 per cent of rental properties negatively geared.
"But we also know that this year, there's a lot of landlords who are receiving a reduced amount of rent, whether that's because their tenants are paying less, or unable to pay at all, or if their property is sitting vacant," she said.
"We would anticipate that there is going to be a greater number of people whose properties end up negatively geared because they still claim the expenses but they are likely to have some level of reduced rent."
SQM Research managing director Louis Christopher anticipates a national 2.5 per cent decline in aggregate rents for the 2020 financial year, and a 2.5 per cent decline for the following year, bringing total rental income down to $40.9 billion.
This could lead to an extra $2 billion worth of losses claimed at tax time.
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ATO expects bigger landlord tax deduction claims given COVID-19 rental income drop

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Melbourne weekend auctions secured a preliminary clearance rate of 59 per cent after 355 results were reported. 
There were been 527 auctions scheduled with 42 properties withdrawn from auction.
Sydney recorded a 64 percent preliminary clearance rate from 310 reported results, according to Domain.
 There were 529 auctions scheduled for auction, with 75 properties withdrawn. 
Sydney’s lower north shore suburb, Waverton had the top weekend sale when a triplex sold for $4 million.
The 642-square-metre property at 29 Balls Head Road fetched $200,000 above the reserve.
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<div class="css-18biwo" data-testid="property-features-wrapper">There were seven bedrooms ands four bathrooms at the property which last sold three decades ago at $430,000 in 1988.</div>
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Belle Property had eight registered bidders, with three bidding throughout the auction. 
Melbourne's top sale was in North Carlton at $3,276,000 for <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-carlton-133708814" target="_blank">22 Macarthur Place</a> (pictured main).
The price guide had been $2.65 million to $2.9 million.
It once hosted Australia’s first intercolonial handball competition in 1873, and is now known as the Court House.
Then was converted into a brick factory.
Set on one of Carlton's prettiest squares, the home and studio was created by architect John Mockridge in the 1970s.
There have been some renovations since to the three bedroom, two bathroom home with comes with a 1050 bottle cellar.
It last sold at $1,405,000 in 2009.
An Edwardian Kew home at 16 Miller Grove sold for $2.54 million.
In Brighton, a four-bedroom Victorian home at 137 Male Street sold for $2.47 million to a Sydney family relocating to Melbourne.
There were three bidders for the home that last sold at $2.35 million in 2018.
Brisbane had the cheapest sale among the capital cities.
It was $246,000 for a two bedroom house at 10 Dampier Street, Eagleby.
It last sold at $28,000 in 1978.
AMP Capital chief economist Shane Oliver told Domain the ongoing impact of coronavirus — including job losses and stalling immigration — would see the market weaken in the coming months.
“Sydney’s results are still pretty soft and the coronavirus outbreaks in Melbourne would be adding to the cautiousness in the market there,” Dr Oliver said.
“Normally, Melbourne would have more listings than Sydney but that hasn’t been happening in recent weeks.”
CoreLogic calculated there were 1,424 homes scheduled for auction over the past week returning a preliminary auction clearance rate of 64.5 per cent. 
It was the highest number of auctions held in nine weeks.
The previous week saw 1,251 homes taken to auction returning a preliminary clearance rate of 66.1 per cent, which later revised down to 59.6 per cent at final figures. 
This time last year saw 1,295 homes taken to auction across the capital cities and a clearance rate of 62.9 per cent was recorded.  
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Historic North Carlton 1970s styled home sells at weekend auction

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The idea of home improvement has been brought to light as of late with the extra time many of the population have had on their hands, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
The valuation firm suggest in locations across the nation, the downtime delivered by isolation has spurned on owners looking to improve their assets through maintenance and upgrade. This month’s HTW report highlights where renovations are on the rise and the price points and outcomes those markets can expect. 
"Housing within many of the older suburbs in Geelong are at a perfect stage where a renovation or extension is exactly what is needed to revitalise one’s home and bring it back up to scratch with what’s currently trending and sought after in the current property market," the valuation firm said. 
Renovations are widespread across suburbs such as Newtown, Highton, Belmont and Geelong West. 
With many of homes in Geelong West having heritage overlays enforced the only option for many homeowners or buyers is to fully upgrade and refurbish internally with the front having to be left unscathed.
A three bedroom Belmont house which has been renovated throughout has recently been sold for $530,100.
The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-belmont-133586766" target="_blank">1/35 Digby Avenue</a> home (pictured below) comes with open plan kitchen, dining and lounge area, updated bathroom and decked alfresco area. 
It was last sold in 2016 for $380,000.
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A current listing is a two bedroom home in Geelong West priced at $499,000 to $535,000.
The renovated home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-geelong+west-133276326" target="_blank">202 Shannon Avenue</a> (pictured below) comes with open plan kitchen, living and dining, verandah, and enclosed carport. 
It is situated closed to shops, schools and Geelong CBD. 
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Extending and renovating these heritage listed homes has resulted in some masterpieces which combine timeless and classic architecture with modern materials and an open plan living space which is so prominent in housing in this current day and age.
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The report notes renovations obviously vary in price due to the nature of the works being conducted and not always is the amount spent on the renovation translated over to the overall new value of the property.
 In some cases when done right it can significantly increase the value of a home far greater than the amount spent on the renovation which can be seen by some record breaking renovated houses that have sold in the likes of Geelong West and Newtown over the past few years.
"Renovations are less popular in developing areas such as the ever expanding Armstrong Creek and Mount Duneed regions. This is ultimately due to the fact that no renovation or extension is required on these newly constructed homes still in excellent condition," the valuation firm said. 
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Geelong's older suburbs at a perfect stage for renovation or extension: HTW residential 

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Some areas in Melbourne’s West that Herron Todd White has seen a jump in renovation ‘As If Complete’ reports is the inner Williamstown and Newport region, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) report. 
The valuation firm suggest in locations across the nation, the downtime delivered by isolation has spurned on owners looking to improve their assets through maintenance and upgrade. This month’s HTW report highlights where renovations are on the rise and the price points and outcomes those markets can expect.
"During these unprecedented times we’re seeing a concentration on the concept of improving your home or investment through renovation projects," the valuation firm said. 
Williamstown and Newport are much older and more established regions than most of Melbourne’s West which consists of newly developed housing estates.
 Because of this, older dwellings within these more established regions are far more likely to conduct a renovation or extension project due to owners wanting to revamp the older styled dwellings, the report noted. 
Renovations can be a costly process which can fluctuate in price due to a number of reasons. The scale of the renovation, materials used and chosen builder all play a massive part into how much a project might cost. 
"Homeowners within Williamstown in general have a much higher household income compared to homeowners living within Melbourne’s Western growth corridors and therefore they are able to put more money toward larger scaled and higher quality renovations. This can be anywhere from $100,000 to $600,000 depending on the works being done," the valuation firm said. 
A renovated Victorian home in Newport has recently been sold for over $1.1 million.
The Hawthorn brick house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-newport-133547998" target="_blank">274 Melbourne Road</a> (pictured below) comprises three bedrooms, formal lounge, kitchen/meals area, and large deck.
It is situated close to shops, cafes and eateries. 
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A current listing is a renovated family home in Williamstown priced at $1.64 million to $1.69 million.
The<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-williamstown-133494918" target="_blank"> 185 Cecil Street </a>home (pictured below) comprises three bedrooms, three bathrooms, and pool.
Additional features include gas fireplace, designer appliances, solar system and alarm.
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The report notes housing within Wyndham and Melton in general are new to near new dwellings having only been built within the past five years. 
Because of this, the need from renovations and extensions are not as rife compared to that of the older and more established regions that have been around for decades. 
Smaller scaled housing projects such as pergolas, working sheds and landscaping is a common trend for home owners within these newly developed housing estates as it simply isn’t necessary for them to upgrade or extend on their newly constructed homes. 
Another factor is the size of the land generally being smaller in these high density urban growth zones and therefore there is an inability to extend any further on the dwelling that already takes up the majority of space on the land.
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Melbourne's inner Williamstown and Newport region sees jump in renovation: HTW residential 

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The past few months have shown little evidence of declines in values in the Bundaberg region, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
The valuation firm suggests in locations across the nation, the downtime delivered by isolation has spurned on owners looking to improve their assets through maintenance and upgrade. This month’s HTW report highlights where renovations are on the rise and the price points and outcomes those markets can expect.
The report notes properties are still being listed and sold and being refinanced.
This is due mainly to the limited number of COVID-19 cases in the region and hopefully with the recent easing of restrictions, this confidence should remain.
"We are very much like the Hervey Bay market when it comes to renovations," the valuation firm said. 
Bundaberg renovations have actively slowed over the past few months as consumers appear to be conserving their dollars. 
"Judging by the local Bunnings carpark, locals seem to be doing odd maintenance jobs around the house and yard instead of major renovations. Local builders have reported that the demand for new owner-occupier homes remains consistent," the valuation firm said. 
A renovated house in Walkervale has recently been sold for $220,000.
The home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-qld-walkervale-133800338" target="_blank">121 Barolin Street</a> (pictured below) comes with three bedrooms, sunroom, renovated gourmet kitchen and fully renovated bathroom. 
It also features new roof, new gyprock ceilings and low maintenance gardens. 
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A current listing is a renovated two bedroom unit in Bundaberg South. 
The unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-unit-qld-bundaberg+south-133626926" target="_blank">1/46 George Street </a>(pictured below) has been listed for sale with over $169,000 hopes.
It features open plan kitchen and living area, private courtyard and single garage. 
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Bundaberg renovation activity slows down: HTW residential 

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In the Eastern suburbs of Melbourne, the number of renovation jobs completed by Herron Todd White (HTW) has increased, according to the latest HTW residential report. 
The valuation firm suggest in locations across the nation, the downtime delivered by isolation has spurned on owners looking to improve their assets through maintenance and upgrade. This month’s HTW report highlights where renovations are on the rise and the price points and outcomes those markets can expect.
The report notes the outer eastern ring has seen a spike in renovation valuations. Suburbs such as Kilsyth, Blackburn, Doncaster and Wantirna have had measured growth in jobs for renovations. Ranging from complete renovations, partial renovations and additional spaces being created to the homes.
A renovated character home in Blackburn has recently been sold for $1.435 million.
The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-blackburn-133601306" target="_blank">2A Forest Road </a>home (pictured below)comes with formal and casual living and dining, four bedrooms, renovated stone kitchen, entertaining area and vegetable garden.
it is set just moments from school and public transport. 
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"The trend we are seeing, based on the ownership information provided by third party web service, Core Logic, is that it is mostly current owners who are renovating.
"Whether it is cabin fever or having a surplus of free time due to being isolated is speculative. What we do know is that there has been a significant increase in renovations being undertaken," the valuation firm said. 
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Due to the eastern suburbs being an established, older area with a range of Italianette, Victorian, Edwardian and Art Deco homes, the opportunity for renovation is a lot higher than suburbs in developing areas.
 In some cases, it is almost more expensive to renovate an old home with structural issues than building a new dwelling, the report noted. 
Though, due to the aforementioned style of homes being omnipresent in the Eastern suburbs, there are more restrictions for what is able to be renovated and planning approval can be more difficult and time consuming to attain.
Buildings that are heritage listed and suburbs with heritage overlay encumbrances can encounter obstacles when wanting to extend and renovate.
Largely because most heritage buildings require the front facade to structurally remain the same and there be no visibility of additional levels added to the home from the street frontage. This can greatly escalate building and labour costs.
"Depending on how far East you travel to buy a home with renovation potential, the outer East would have houses available with a purchase price of $700,000 and $1.2 million," the valuation firm said. 
A big trend seen in Glen Waverley and Mount Waverley is for buyers to purchase run down properties and build a new home with four or five bedrooms.
A current listing is a four bedroom house in Mount Waverley priced at $1.38 million to $1.49 million.
The<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-mount+waverley-133783346" target="_blank"> 1 Wills Avenue </a>home (pictured below) comes with formal lounge, kitchen/meals area, family room and double carport. 
It has future potential as a site for building a new home. 
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"While this isn’t a renovation, it is an interesting trend seen over the last couple of years," the valuation firm said. 
The effect of COVID-19 hasn’t slowed down the construction industry completely. There are still many investors who are eager to build and develop even through this uncertain time.
"We are seeing basic renovations begin at prices around $150,000 to $200,000 and more substantial renovations priced around $400,000-$500,000.
"Sub-contractors and trades are in hot demand and renovations are definitely sought after during this period of isolation," the valuation firm said. 
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Eastern Melbourne sees a spike in renovation valuations: HTW residential 

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Most towns on the Central Highlands of Queensland appear to be going back to normal trade apart from Moranbah which continued to strengthen throughout COVID-19, according to the last Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
The valuation firm suggests in locations across the nation, the downtime delivered by isolation has spurned on owners looking to improve their assets through maintenance and upgrade. This month’s HTW report highlights where renovations are on the rise and the price points and outcomes those markets can expect.
"We have seen a pick up in activity over the past two weeks in both sales and rentals," the valuation firm said 
The report suggests renovations is a good thing for most towns on the Central Highlands with costs able to be recovered in most situations.
"We are seeing most mortgagee homes and lower end properties being purchased and shortly after being renovated.
"With a rising market we see renovators cashing in on true added value to their properties. Builders are probably evenly split currently between new homes and renovations in the area.
"We have now had four years of steady growth coming off a bottom in 2016, so there are many with equity to undertake improvements to their properties and we see this continuing," the valuation firm said. 
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For example, a fully renovated Queenslander in Emerald was sold for $250,000 in April. 
The three bedroom, two bathroom home is situated at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-qld-emerald-132373638" target="_blank">25 Theresa Street</a> (pictured below).
It features open plan living and dining, covered verandas and above ground pool. 
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A current listing is a four bedroom house in Emerald which has been renovated inside. 
The family home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-emerald-133687746" target="_blank">7 Tineele Place</a> (pictured below) has been listed for $425,000.
It comes with gourmet kitchen, large dining and family room, rumpus room and in ground pool.
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Emerald sees continuing renovation works: HTW residential 

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Building applications have hit an all-time high in homes within Melbourne’s southeast, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
The valuation firm suggest in locations across the nation, the downtime delivered by isolation has spurned on owners looking to improve their assets through maintenance and upgrade. This month’s HTW report highlights where renovations are on the rise and the price points and outcomes those markets can expect.
The report notes many homeowners and investors are utilising this time to work on home improvements. 
With the Reserve Bank’s decision to cut rates down to a low of 0.25 per cent, this means it is cheaper than ever for homeowners and investors to borrow money to make improvements.
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"In established areas of the South East, we have seen suburbs including Hughesdale, Parkdale and Carnegie undergo renovations," the valuation firm said. 
A renovated Art Deco home in Carnegie has recently been sold for $1.225 million.
The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-carnegie-133579294" target="_blank">66 Neville Street </a>house (pictured below) comprises three bedrooms, marble kitchen, open plan living and dining area and entertaining deck.
It was last sold in 2012 for $570,500. 
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A timber Californian Bungalow in Carnegie with potentials for renovation and extension has been listed for $1.5 million to $1.6 million. 
The three bedroom, one bedroom home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-carnegie-133669942" target="_blank">14 Oakleigh Road</a> (pictured below) is currently under offer. 
It features decked verandah, central hall, north facing lounge and Blackwood kitchen. 
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Renovations works can range between $80,000 all the way to $300,000 for higher quality specifications. 
Renovators are also sourcing their own materials and doing DIY jobs in order to keep costs down, the report noted. 
Home improvements are more apparent in older homes, where owners are likely to undertake minor works or ‘gut out’ their entire home to install new finishes, appliances, fixtures and fittings while still maintaining the foundation and frames of the original dwelling.
The results usually speak for themselves, with increasing numbers of homes becoming more spacious, modern and customised to the owner’s lifestyle.
"Renovators and investors are choosing to renovate their homes for a number of reasons; one might to improve their current home to suit their lifestyle, others are renovating so they can sell it quicker and at a higher price in this current market which can yield great results," the valuation firm said. 
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Building application hit an all-time high in homes within South East Melbourne: HTW residential 

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Over the past month, residential property in the Rockhampton region (including the Capricorn Coast) has continued to tick over, with properties still being listed and sold despite the global pandemic, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
The valuation firm suggests in locations across the nation, the downtime delivered by isolation has spurned on owners looking to improve their assets through maintenance and upgrade. This month’s HTW report highlights where renovations are on the rise and the price points and outcomes those markets can expect.
The report notes there has been no evidence to date of a decline in values, in fact, some sectors of the market are continuing to improve slightly (i.e. modern, well presented homes on the Capricorn Coast).
"Regionally, we have been fortunate to continue with a very small number of COVID-19 cases which, combined with the recent easing of restrictions, is likely to support this trend to continue should the number of cases remain low in our region," the valuation firm said. 
Over the past 12 to 18 months in particular, there has been a notable increase in renovation projects in a small sector of the Rockhampton market. 
Generally, small pockets of South Rockhampton, such as The Range, Allenstown and Wandal are sought after for their proximity to the CBD, schooling, hospitals and elevation available in some areas to provide city views to the east or vast hinterland views to the west.
However, given that the south side is characterised by Queenslander style homes and there is no room for growth or expansion due to the area being surrounded by flood plains, renovation presents the only option for those in the market wanting both southside convenience and contemporary living, the report noted. 
"In the balance of the market, renovation activity is generally holding steady, with some basic dwellings receiving a renovation to then be on-sold," the valuation firm said. 
This has started to occur after a period of very limited renovation in the low to middle sections of the market and this change is considered to be a combination of low interest rates, a preference by first home buyers to want properties with nothing left to do and a consistent, moderate upturn in the local economy.
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Whilst the majority of the renovations seen are by long term owner-occupiers entering into a major renovation to create their forever home, there are a number of investors picking themselves up a bargain and completing a simple renovation (i.e. no structural changes) to then resell with the intent of turning a profit in a market which is starting to recover from an extended period of no capital growth.
There has been a number of sales evidenced over recent months where a building company has purchased a rundown property in an average suburb, renovated, professionally styled the home and resold at an expected profit with a short turn around.
"Styling and presentation is a key factor linked to the level of profit made. First home buyers still prefer new homes, however there are some who end up buying these more affordable, renovated existing homes with nothing left to be done," the valuation firm said. 
Buy in price points for renovators vary greatly. From sub-$200,000 for the investor-renovator through to $600,000 for the long term owner-occupier- renovator. End values then vary just as much.
The added market value of basic renovations tends to match cost and when the market is starting to recover, a small profit may be had, the report suggested. 
When a major renovation is undertaken however, it is a very different outcome. There is little to no evidence that the added value of the renovation will match or exceed the cost to construct.
"This is where it is important to be aware of the market in which you are renovating to determine where renovation dollars are best spent. Is it wise to make structural changes to the home or stick to cosmetic works only?
"A dwelling with a poor layout would benefit from a structural change to rectify, however if the existing layout is functional, that money may be better directed elsewhere," the valuation firm said. 
The report suggests being aware of town planning is also important when planning a renovation, particularly in older areas where perhaps a heritage overlay or neighbourhood character overlay is required to be complied with.
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For Rockhampton in particular, the renovator market is likely to continue the current trend as factors that drive the decision to renovate are considered a constant in the local market.
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 A renovated family home in West Rockhampton has recently been sold for $290,000.
The four bedroom, one bathroom house is situated at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-qld-west+rockhampton-133516998" target="_blank">33 Stickley Street </a>(pictured below).
Renovated inside and out, the home features new roof, timber flooring and new hot water system. 
It was last sold in 2005 for $190,000.
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A classic Queenslander in Lakes Creek with renovated kitchen and bathroom is currently on the market with a price guide of $350,000 -$2380,000.
The three bedroom, two bathroom house is situated at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-lakes+creek-133783858" target="_blank">604-606 Montgomerie Street</a> (pictured below).
It comes with open plan living, dining and kitchen, rear deck and rumpus room. 
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Rockhampton renovation activity holding steady: HTW residential 

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The stringent government response to COVID-19 has undoubtedly placed the property market cycle at the cusp of another downswing. So far, property value declines have been fairly mild.
Nationally, the May home value index results show that the dwelling market declined just 0.4 per cent over the month, and preliminary indicators for June are showing the rate of decline has gathered some momentum through the month.
However, the Australian housing market is not one market, but a collection of many. Over the past few months, dwelling market performance has varied by region, in both a cyclical and structural way.
As per historic cycles, the most expensive parts of Sydney and Melbourne seem to be leading the current downswing.
Over the month of May, dwelling values in the top quartile of the Melbourne market (dwellings worth $959,500 or more) had fallen by 1.3 per cent, compared with a 0.6 per cent decline across the middle of the market, and a 0.3 per cent decline in the lowest value quartile.
Across Sydney, the same period saw a decline in the highest market segment (where dwellings are worth over $1.35 million) of 0.6 per cent, followed by a 0.4 per cent decline across the middle of the market, and a slight increase in the lowest value segment of 0.1 per cent.
The historic cycles across the upper, middle and lower market value tiers are presented below. The graphs suggest the more expensive parts of the Sydney and Melbourne dwelling markets have higher levels of volatility, and are at times a ‘first mover’ when it comes to the direction of price change.
Research from the RBA asserts that more expensive property can be most reactive and volatile in responses to changes in the cash rate. The performance of property markets amid COVID-19 suggest the high end of the market may also be more responsive to negative economic shocks.
To enlarge, <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2020/6/26/1_Quarterly%20Growth%20in%20Sydney%20dwellings.jpg" target="_blank">click here</a>.
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Which markets have been most impacted by COVID-19?
The tables below show SA4 regions across the capital cities, ranked by the capital growth performance in dwelling markets from March to May.
To enlarge, <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2020/6/26/1_CoreLogic%20Englarged.jpg" target="_blank">click here</a>.
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Unsurprisingly, Melbourne’s inner city and eastern suburbs have seen the largest decline across the metropolitan region, and the past two months have seen a decline in values across some high end markets in Sydney, such as North Sydney, the Inner West and the Northern Beaches.
Perhaps more surprising is the continued decline in Mandurah, which had the largest slip in dwelling market values over the past two months. Mandurah dwelling values were 38 per cent below their 2006 peak at the end of May this year. The renewed downwards pressure comes just after the Perth dwelling market was starting to enjoy a long-awaited growth phase in the start of 2020.
Payroll data analysis from the ABS suggests that payroll job losses across Mandurah has been 6.0 per cent between mid-march and the end of May. This is not especially severe when it comes to job loss across Perth regions, nor would Mandurah have been particularly susceptible to a demand shock from a decline in overseas migration. However, the decline in dwelling values is off the back of a longer-term downward trend, suggesting demand conditions were already fragile across the region.
The Perth – South East region on the other hand, where dwelling values have slipped -1.2 per cent between March and May, has recently been almost entirely dependent on net overseas migration for new housing demand. ABS regional population growth data for 2018/19 suggests internal migration over the year was negative, compared with about 4,500 net overseas migration arrivals.
International border closures in response to COVID-19 may have created a significant demand shock which had interrupted a recovery in the Perth - South East region. Prior to this, dwelling values in the area had seen four consecutive months of growth between December 2019 and March 2020.
At a suburb level, the biggest price falls are more reflective of the historic cyclical trends, where the downturn is most prevalent in the high end of Sydney and Melbourne this far. At this stage, sound analysis of the change in suburb-level dwelling markets is limited to areas where there are relatively high sales observations.
It appears that Malvern East, in the Melbourne metropolitan, has been the worst suburb-level performer between the end of March and the end of May across the capital cities, with total dwelling market values down -4.8 per cent. Other relatively steep value falls have been seen across the Melbourne suburbs of Glen Iris (-3.8 per cent), Northcote (-3.5 per cent), Port Melbourne (-3.2 per cent), and Brunswick East (-3.1 per cent).
Across Sydney, the biggest suburb-level falls in dwelling values had occurred across Mosman (-2.5 per cent), Lane Cove North (-2.4 per cent) Manly (-2.3 per cent), Leichhardt (-1.7 per cent) and Wentworth Point (-1.4 per cent).
As the downturn progresses, we are likely to see continued declines in inner-city markets that had previously relied on international migration for new housing demand. However, as the wider economic downturn drags on housing demand, mild price declines are likely to spread, resulting in a more broad-based downturn in the next 12 months.
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Eliza Owen is head of research for Australia at CoreLogic.
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CoreLogic reveals where property price falls have occurred since the onset of COVID-19

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/broadbeach-qld-4218">Broadbeach</a> offers plenty of reasons to live vertically, but moving from a substantial family home into an apartment can expose the compromises of high-density living. Privacy, room for guests and usable living space tend to matter more when an apartment is intended as a permanent home rather than an occasional coastal base.

A typical residential floor at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-eveleigh-broadbeach-7-9-surf-parade-broadbeach-qld-4218">The Eveleigh</a>, on Surf Parade,&nbsp;contains just four apartments. The 94-residence development by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/hirsch-faigen">Hirsch &amp; Faigen</a> is predominantly made up of expansive three-bedroom homes, with a limited collection of half-floor penthouses above.

Across the apartment floors, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a> has used the relatively limited number of residences to give each home greater access to natural light and outlook. Living spaces extend towards full-height glazing, while a series of bay windows frame selected views across the Pacific Ocean, city and hinterland rather than treating the building edge as a continuous wall of glass.

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“The apartment floors deliver a collection of homes that embrace controlled outlook via a series of bay windows deliberately framing moments of view,” Rothelowman Director Kim Lowman said.

From outside, those projecting forms contribute to the tower’s faceted profile. Strong horizontal and vertical elements establish its proportions, while the changing position of the sun alters the light, shadow and reflection across the façade throughout the day.

The same attention moves inside the apartments, where the material palette combines warm timber, natural stone, metallic detailing and softer curved forms. Kitchens sit within the main living zone, with stone island benches, integrated joinery and European appliances, before the living areas extend towards the glazing and the outlook.

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[smartcode_project:default project_id=149670 project_image_fid=360981]

Three genuine bedrooms provide room to accommodate family and guests, while two secure car spaces and storage address some of the practical considerations that can become more noticeable when moving from a larger home. Feedback from the display suite has centred on the warmth and restraint of the interiors, with buyers commenting that the residences feel like homes rather than conventional coastal apartments.

A limited collection of half-floor penthouses occupies the upper levels, increasing the scale of the living spaces and adding private balconies and elevated finishes. From this position, the outlook extends between the ocean and hinterland.

Outside the private residences, The Eveleigh separates its shared spaces between the podium and rooftop. The podium is centred on wellness, with subtropical landscaping surrounding a swimming pool and pool terrace, yoga garden, private gymnasium, sauna and hot and cold plunge facilities. Landscaped retreats and pavilions provide additional places to sit away from the main recreation areas.

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Higher in the building, a rooftop pavilion and private dining suite sit alongside resident lounge, barbecue and outdoor dining areas, opening towards panoramic views across the ocean, city and hinterland.

“Buyers are no longer just looking for an apartment, but a lifestyle where they can relax, reset, and enjoy a balanced way of living,” Hirsch &amp; Faigen Director of Sales Matt George said.

Interest to date has come from established owner-occupiers and interstate lifestyle purchasers, including buyers planning a future move to the Gold Coast. Many are coming from larger homes and want to reduce ongoing maintenance without giving up space for family and guests, privacy, two car spaces or the ability to entertain at home.

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Much of that daily life can also take place beyond the building without requiring a drive. Kurrawa Beach and Pratten Park are an easy walk from Surf Parade, while Pacific Fair, Oracle Boulevard, The Oasis, restaurants, cafés, entertainment and public transport are also within walking distance.

The Eveleigh is Hirsch &amp; Faigen's fourth Gold Coast development since entering the market in 2021, following The Hemingway at Palm Beach, The Emerson at Kirra and Yves at Mermaid Beach. Each of the preceding projects sold out before completion.

“Broadbeach had been on our radar throughout our time operating on the Gold Coast,” the developer said. “Following our projects in Palm Beach, Kirra and Mermaid Beach, Broadbeach represented the natural next step for the business.”

The Surf Parade site brought together proximity to the beach, protected coastal outlooks and walkability to dining, shopping and recreation. Hirsch &amp; Faigen also identified the street as an emerging premium residential address, with enough separation from Broadbeach's busier destinations to retain a quieter environment at home.

The Eveleigh is now under construction by Maxcon, with completion forecast for mid-2028. Three-bedroom residences are currently available from $2.87 million.

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Joel Robinson

The Eveleigh brings house-like apartments to Broadbeach

A long-stalled Campbelltown development site is back in play, with new plans for 139 apartments set to supersede a mixed-use scheme approved almost a decade ago but never built.

The new proposal for 28 Cordeaux Street would deliver 116 market and 23 affordable apartments in a part 14-storey building, bringing a substantial new project into a Campbelltown market where new apartment supply remains limited.

Plans have been filed over the 3,092 sqm corner site at Moore-Oxley Street, around 600 metres from Campbelltown Railway Station and the city-centre retail core.

The site already carries a mixed-use residential approval dating to 2016. Doroch Architects has now been engaged on a larger replacement scheme, which is progressing as a State Significant Development Application following a Housing Delivery Authority determination in August 2025.

The apartment mix comprises 39 one-bedroom, 72 two-bedroom and 28 three-bedroom residences. Two-bedroom apartments make up just over half of the project, while three-bedroom homes account for 20 per cent.

<img alt="First look: New 139-apartment plans revive long-stalled Campbelltown city centre site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="136dd5b9-3791-4da6-9e31-76f533f5b4de" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Campbelltown%20da2.png?VersionId=LgOSy9nwf5u.MGswBBwaGGxuX8QpHSl_" />

Of the 139 apartments, 23 will be delivered as affordable housing under the in-fill affordable housing provisions of the Housing SEPP. The affordable component represents 15 per cent of the residential gross floor area and will be managed by a registered Community Housing Provider.

Doroch has sought to break the scale of the building into two distinct elements, with a masonry podium of around four storeys establishing the street edge before the residential tower steps back above.

The corner position has shaped that approach. Cordeaux Street faces toward the commercial and civic centre, while Moore-Oxley Street leads into the lower-scale residential neighbourhood to the south, and the design verification report describes the site as "bridging the commercial core to the north and established residential areas to the south."

The podium will be expressed predominantly in face brick, while the upper levels shift to brushed and grooved concrete cladding with darker metal detailing. Recessed sections, deep balcony edges and landscaping break down the upper form, with an approximately 11.8-metre setback to the northern boundary addressing the adjoining St Peters Anglican School.

<img alt="First look: New 139-apartment plans revive long-stalled Campbelltown city centre site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c8b3d2d3-c561-4bfc-a5d9-a68c0c10dac1" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Campbelltown%20da1.png?VersionId=AeAEyJU02Gk2k5noUj2StziCvdQ7fW4B" />

Campbelltown has been starved of new residential developments in the last decade.

The only other notable development set to come to market this year is ALAND's Queen Square, a mixed-use precinct on over two hectares that will comprise apartments above a vibrant ground-level retail and hospitality dining precinct.

First look: New 139-apartment plans revive long-stalled Campbelltown city centre site

First Look: Sherlock Construction pitches apartments for low-rise Deception Bay

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

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

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