<html><body>
Melbourne’s Outer East takes the top spot as Melbourne’s region with the highest clearance rate, according to CoreLogic’s latest monthly report.
The region has a clearance rate of 87 percent with 62 auction results advised.
<a href="/images/2016/10/17/Melbourne%20sub%20regions.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/10/17/Melbourne%20sub%20regions.jpg" alt="">
This is followed by the West with a clearance rate of 85 percent with 116 reported results.
The Inner region had the lowest clearance rate, only 73 percent, with 219 notified auction results.
<a href="/images/2016/10/18/Melbourne%20weekly%20clearance%20rate.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/10/18/Melbourne%20weekly%20clearance%20rate.jpg" alt="">
</body></html>

j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Melbourne's outer east region secures 87 percent clearance rate: CoreLogic

<html><body>
The Eastern Suburbs once again takes the top spot as Sydney’s region with the highest clearance auction rate, according to CoreLogic’s latest monthly report.
The region has a clearance rate of 97 percent from the 69 auction results over the past week.
<a href="/images/2016/10/17/Sydney%20sub%20regions.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/10/17/Sydney%20sub%20regions.jpg" alt="">
This is followed by the Sutherland with a clearance rate of 93 percent.
The Outer South West has the lowest clearance rate, only 40 percent of 10 results selling.
<a href="/images/2016/10/18/Sydney%20weekly%20clearance%20rate.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/10/18/Sydney%20weekly%20clearance%20rate.jpg" alt="">
</body></html>

Eastern Suburbs auction success into the 90s: CoreLogic

<html><body>
It has been another strong week for auction results, with a preliminary auction clearance rate of 77.9 percent, according to CoreLogic's latest monthly report.
There were 2,405 auctions held across the combined capital cities. Auction volumes still remain below levels of last year. The clearance rate has remained above 70 percent since the last week in July.
Last week, the final auction clearance rate was recorded at 76.4 percent with 2,290 residential properties taken to auction.
<a href="/images/2016/10/18/Captal%20city%20auctions.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/10/18/Captal%20city%20auctions.jpg" alt="">
At the same time last year, auction volumes were higher, with 2,858 capital city auctions held, 67.4 percent were successful.
Sydney’s clearance rate continues to be nation leading, however the number of auctions held is still lower that at the same time last year.
<a href="/images/2016/10/17/Brisbane%20%20Adelaide%20weekly%20clearance%20rate.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/10/17/Brisbane%20%20Adelaide%20weekly%20clearance%20rate.jpg" width="300">
Adelaide's weekly auction clearance rate has improved compared to last year's. Last year the weekly average for clearance rate was around 55 percent, this year it rose by 10 percent.
Brisbane has seen slight improvement on weekly auction clearance rate compared to last year's. Last year the weekly average was 42 percent while this year it rose to 48 percent.
</body></html>

Clearance rates 10 percent higher than last year: CoreLogic

<html><body>
Geelong is ranked the number one region with the highest clearance rate, according to CoreLogic’s latest weekend report.
Its auctions result in a clearance rate of 80 percent.
This is followed by Wollongong with a clearance rate of 66 percent.
The region with the lowest clearance rate was the Sunshine Coast with a clearance rate of 41 percent.
<a href="/images/2016/10/18/Regional%20regions.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/10/18/Regional%20regions.jpg" alt="">
</body></html>

80 percent success in Geelong auctions: CoreLogic

<html><body>
Dwelling values across Perth have seen further decline by 3.2%, according to CoreLogic's latest monthly report.
The housing market has been in a downturn since December 2014 and the latest data reveals that dwelling values have fallen by 7.0% year on year.
<a href="/images/2016/10/17/Perth%20annual%20changes.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/10/17/Perth%20annual%20changes.jpg" alt="">
Buyer demand also seems to have been reduced with transaction numbers falling over the last 12 months along with the average selling time extended out to 75 days, as opposed to 66 days this time last year.
This is despite Perth having a very high number of listings allowing buyers a lot of options to choose from.
</body></html>

Perth's housing market continues to decline: CoreLogic

<html><body>
The Coffs Coast district has a fairly low economic base with a limited amount of high paying work available, according to Herron Todd White’s (HTW) latest monthly market report.
The property advisory firm says that the majority of the pressure for property is on the affordable sub-$500,000 sector.
At this price point, the majority of purchasers are investors and first home buyers or to a lesser extent people locating to the area.
Rental demand is high which translates to strong rental returns making Coffs Harbour an attractive place for investors.
Typically Coffs has been a fairly transient community which is why rental demand is high.
Recent major infrastructure upgrades primarily centred around the Pacific Motorway to the north and south of Coffs has seen a steady influx of road workers over the past five to 10 years.
These workers are transient and slowly moving away from Coffs Harbour currently working to the north on the Corrindi Beach to Ballina upgrade and south at Warrell Creek.
Although this demand is slowly shifting away the planned Coffs Harbour bypass which is expected to start some time in the next five to six years will see these workers returning and increasing pressure on future rental demand.
HTW observed that homes under $500,000 are still reachable in Coffs Harbour.
"What do we expect to buy for under $500,000?" the report asked. "Increasingly less for your money, however, the median price for a home is currently around $430,000 which buys you a three to four bedroom home, probably in the 10 to 40 year age bracket and located within good proximity of beaches, schools and all major services."
There is a vast array of properties available for sale within the Coffs Coast region however more affordable localities can offer the same type of property for less.
For example, for the same three to four bedroom home in Nambucca Heads to the south, you will be looking to pay around the $330,000 mark. One example would be a three bedroom home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-nambucca+heads-123335334" target="_blank">41 Old Coast Road</a> (pictured above) that was for sale for $330,000 and sold at $325,000.
Conversely, HTW advised the slowest price point is the prestige market ($1 million plus) which is dependent upon high net wealth individuals.
These are limited in the local market with prospective purchasers generally coming from Sydney or out of town.
The difficult global economic conditions over the GFC period resulted in a reduced number of buyers seeking properties in this value range and location.
There are positive signs that the market has turned upwards for prestige property with improved conditions over 2016.
Sales activity for residential product between $1 million and $1.3 million increased although property over $1.5 million is still thinly traded with selling periods in excess of 12 months generally expected.
This market improvement is being experienced in the more traditional sought after beach locations such as Sawtell, The Jetty, Diggers Beach, Korora, Sapphire Beach and Woolgoolga.
Herron Todd White noted that Coffs Harbour's market is largely dependable upon economic conditions in NSW.
"We note this market is dependent upon the greater economic conditions throughout New South Wales and more specifically the metropolitan markets at the time of sale," said the report.
</body></html>

High rental demand makes Coffs Harbour an attractive investment: HTW

<html><body>
The price point most active in Melbourne’s north is $700,000 to $1.2 million, according to Herron Todd White’s (HTW) latest monthly market report.
The property advisory firm says that this price point is especially active in inner suburbs such as Brunswick, Northcote, Thornbury, Preston and Coburg. This price point is popular in properties within close proximity of the CBD.
A suburb that continues to be one of the most dynamic in Melbourne’s north is Northcote. It has had a quarterly median house price change of 18.2%. This can be explained by the suburb’s proximity to the CBD, its public transport connections, trendy bars, cafes and live music venues.
Northcote has also experienced a number of high end sales including <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-northcote-123254290" target="_blank">25 Simpson Street, Northcote</a> (pictured above), sold for $2.34 million in August 2016.
One of the slowest and least active suburbs in Melbourne’s north is Broadmeadows, highlighted by its median house price of $390,000 and quarterly growth of 2.2%.
Broadmeadows has also had less than 30 sales within the suburb in the last quarter (source: REIV, 2016), the valuation firm noted.
It suggested a possible reason for this small amount of activity was the huge supply of affordable, newly constructed homes in Melbourne’s outer north suburbs such as Craigieburn and Greenvale.
</body></html>

Northcote reigns as the most dynamic property market in Melbourne's north: HTW

<html><body>
Like most coastal areas, the Sunshine Coast has an array of different property types which appeals to a number of different sectors of the marketplace, but the the entry level for each of these sectors has been performing well, according to Herron Todd White’s (HTW) latest monthly market report.
The property advisory firm says that due to the disparate segments, specific market analysis is difficult.
To try and provide some clarity, HTW have broken up the Sunshine Coast into the two main sectors – coastal and hinterland.
"When looking at the coastal areas for housing, the main feedback we’re receiving is that the sub $750,000 market is most active. This can be broken up into first home buyers active in the sub $500,000 level and upgraders above this," the report stated.
Homes tend to be of older style product close to the beach and modern homes on sub 500 to 600 square metre allotments within estates (although some estates are sub 300 square metres).
"For units we’re talking more in the sub $400,000 level with once again first home buyers being pretty active. These units usually comprise older townhouse product and smaller walk up unit complexes," the report observed.
An example would be a two bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-unit-qld-noosaville-123540454" target="_blank">20/291 Gympie Terrace</a> (pictured above) that is for sale for $460,000.
When we look at the other end of the scale, the slower markets tend to be in the higher value bands, say above $1.5 million.
The market is very much buyer and vendor specific, with inconsistencies experienced and both weak and strong sales being recorded. More simply, there are just less people running around with that amount of money to spend.
There are certain areas where the activity is strong up to $2 million. Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne buyers are the most active as well as local upgraders. Some overseas buyers are coming back into the market with the lower Australian dollar.
HTW noted that property prices within hinterland towns drop.
"When we cast an eye to the hinterland markets, the price point drops further with homes down to sub $400,000 within hinterland townships and sub $500,000 for homes on rural residential allotments," the report said.
"First home buyers and local residents upgrading into new or larger properties are the most active. We are also seeing people relocating from coastal areas to more traditional sized allotments.
"The unit market in these areas is typically thin apart from Nambour with limited levels of stock. Values tend to be trading in the sub $275,000 level and are typically townhouse and villa product."
Similar to the coastal region, the higher value $750,000 plus rural residential market continues to remain patchy and very much buyer and vendor specific.
There are certain areas where the activity is strong up to $1.3 million and then it thins out. The big benefit for these properties is that there is an ability to purchase at below replacement cost which is always attractive.
"As you can see from the above, the Sunshine Coast market is difficult to gauge," HTW suggested.
"At the moment there are a number of good news stories which are still creating interest in the region."
</body></html>

Sunshine Coast property market seeing return of the overseas buyer: HTW

<html><body>
The expiry of Tasmania's first home buyer incentives for purchasers of established dwellings in 2014 saw first home buyer demand decline, according to QBE’s latest housing report.
First home buyer demand in the state has since bottomed out and is now in a recovery phase, the report said.
Loans to first home buyers increased by an annual 6% in 2015/16 and the rising trend has been accelerating, with loans to first home buyers in June quarter 2016 being 24% higher than the same period a year earlier.
It is likely that some of this demand stems from increased interstate migration. In contrast, purchase activity by upgraders and downsizers has been easing, with loans to non–first home buyers having fallen by 4% in 2015/16.
Demand from investors has also been decreasing, with the total value of loans to investors having fallen by an annual 13% in 2015/16. As with the other states, tightened lending policy by the banks is containing investor demand, although the decline in 2015/16 has been lower than the national decline.
Rental growth has been largely flat and vacancy rates are close to balance at just under 3% through 2015/16.
House prices in Hobart were flat in 2014/15, but picked up in 2015/16, with the median house price increasing by 5.2%. Tasmania’s net interstate migration outflow has been steadily declining since peaking in 2011/12, and interstate migration is on track to record a net inflow in 2015/16.
Part of the driver of this recovery is likely to be increased “tree changers” downsizing from the more expensive mainland capitals, while there are also likely to be many returnees from the mining states who contributed to the higher net interstate migration outflows of recent years.
House price growth has been unevenly spread across the Local Government Areas of Hobart. Median house price growth has been particularly strong in Hobart (10.1%), Clarence (8.4%) and Kingborough (6.9%). Glenorchy (1.1%) and Brighton (2.8%) saw more moderate house price growth while Sorell (–3.3%) experienced a decline in its median house price. The overall Greater Hobart median grew 5.2% over 2015/16.
<a href="/images/2016/10/14/Table%2012.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<a href="/images/2016/10/14/Table%2012.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2016/10/14/Table%2012.jpg" alt=""></a>
The Tasmanian economy has been weak in recent years. A high Australian dollar and slow population growth have added to general economic weakness. However, improved household spending, non–residential building activity and improving exports suggest a stronger economic recovery.
The weakening Australian dollar should support growth in tourism while the agricultural and mining industries should also benefit. The state unemployment rate fell from 7.8% at March 2014 to 6.6% at March 2016. Greater Hobart has a lower unemployment rate than the rest of the state, having fallen from 6.7% to 6.1% over the same period.
Greater Hobart has also been the main destination for migrants from overseas, interstate and the rest of Tasmania, with its population rising by 0.8% in 2014/15 while the population of the rest of Tasmania was flat.
On the supply side, completions at the state level have continued to rise while underlying demand has been slow. This has seen Tasmania’s dwelling surplus climb from 4,800 dwellings to an estimated 5,300 dwellings at June 2016. Given the disparity between population growth, it is likely that the oversupply is greater in regional Tasmania.
Reflecting lower income levels and fewer drivers of employment, Hobart has the lowest median house price compared to the other state capitals. Its relative affordability compared to other capital cities is a significant driver of demand as interstate migrants seek a more affordable market.
The current low interest rate environment is expected to improve affordability and spur purchaser demand, the QBE report said. Poor affordability in Melbourne and Sydney is expected to fuel further migration to Tasmanian cities, a trend already evident with the net interstate inflow forecast to increase further to 1,000 persons in 2016/17 and 2017/18.
Click to open chart in new window
<img src="/images/2016/10/14/Chart%2030.jpg" alt="">
Overall, the gradual recovery in the local economy and interstate migration is expected to underpin price growth, while the presence of an excess dwelling stock at the state level will likely limit price growth to more moderate levels. Hobart’s median house price is forecast to rise from $377,900 at June 2016 to $425,000 by June 2019, reflecting growth of around 4% per annum or a cumulative 12.5%.
With a significantly smaller unit market, and thus a smaller sample of sales volumes to measure the median, movement in the median unit price in Hobart can be much more volatile from quarter to quarter. Overall, however, median unit prices have been in a gradual decline since its peak median price of $420,000 in June 2011.
With falling investor demand, the unit market could experience the greatest impact as investor purchasers have traditionally been more prevalent buying units.
This softness is expected to continue to dampen demand, limiting median unit price growth to a forecast 1%–2% per annum through to 2018/19. This is forecast by QBE to push the median unit price to $315,000 at June 2019; a cumulative growth of 4.5% over the forecast period.
</body></html>

Hobart first home buyers in recovery stage: QBE Housing Outlook

<html><body>
The Southern Highlands residential property market continues to see strong activity from local and out of region buyers, according to Herron Todd White’s (HTW) latest monthly market report.
The property advisory firm says that the most active market is close in to the townships of Bowral, where the most active price range is between $700,000 to $1 million and the median is $771,0004 (+13% 2015). 
An example is<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-bowral-123777430" target="_blank"> 5 Bronwyn Place, Bowral</a> (pictured above), which is currently listed through Richardson and Wrench for $785,000. 
In Moss Vale, the most active price range is $450,000 to $700,000 and the median $508,000 ( which is up 15% year on year).
In Mittagong, local agents have reported a severe shortage of listings, resulting in a most active price range of $550,000 to $800,0001 and the medianprice is $605,000 (up 14% year on year).
Buyers are moving to the Highlands from greater Sydney, North Shore and the Hills District in particular, seeking a lifestyle change with accompanying economic benefits, the HTW report said.
"Pleasingly, an increasing proportion of purchasers are owner occupiers and families," it added.
Properties in the area are a mix of modern well appointed, well maintained and renovated older style dwellings.
The emerging precincts on the outskirts of townships such as Bingara Gorge (Picton), Renwick (Mittagong) and Darraby (Moss Vale) are also trading at a brisk pace, with price points from $550,000 to $900,000 where improvements will be modern and contemporary.
There is an increasing amount of property across the Southern Highlands in the $2.5 million plus category, primarily the rural lifestyle market, (10 hectares plus) that can remain on the market in some instances for up to two years.
These properties are generally located outside the main townships in the hamlets of Exeter, Bundanoon and Sutton Forest and are thinly traded, with purchasers more specific as to their requirements, eg equestrian facilities, house and guest accommodation, landscaping or water being some of the selection criteria.
</body></html>

Lifestyle changers seek out the Southern Highlands: HTW

Builder-developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/graya">Graya</a> has secured a prime Newstead site from fellow developer Fraser, subsequently lodging plans for The Silo, a major mixed-use residential project in Newstead designed around a new public laneway linking the James Street precinct with the wider Gasworks and Newstead neighbourhood.

Proposed for the corner of Chester and Morse streets, the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bureauproberts">Bureau^Proberts</a>-designed project places its strongest emphasis at ground level, where retail, landscaping and a new cobblestone pedestrian connection would open the site to the surrounding neighbourhood. The design team describes The Silo as “more than a residential building”, positioning the development as an extension of Newstead’s public realm rather than a standalone apartment tower.

“A new cobblestone laneway and landscaped connection between James Street and Gasworks unlock a missing pedestrian link, improving walkability and stitching together two of Brisbane’s significant urban destinations,” Bureau Proberts said in its Urban Design Report.

<img alt="First look: Graya plans The Silo as new pedestrian link between James Street and Gasworks" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0ea1b06a-75f5-40a5-b2c5-33c97bc86052" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/silo%20bldg.png?VersionId=KmjsAtNePu57_B31EM_DJ5T6KPJHtcmo" />

The Silo is planned as a mixed-use development incorporating apartments alongside a bar and centre activities including food and drink outlets, indoor sport and recreation, office and retail uses.

Architecturally, Bureau Proberts has conceived the building as a collection of vertically expressed, stepping forms rather than a single uniform tower. The composition rises from an articulated podium before being broken by a triple-height landscaped recreation level, with the upper section becoming more compact before terminating in a landscaped rooftop garden.

The project's name and architectural language draw directly from Newstead's industrial history. Patterned off-form concrete is proposed as the principal façade material, complemented by slender metal rod balustrades and extensive planting. The cylindrical and vertically ribbed elements give the building its silo-like expression, while curved balconies and planted edges introduce a softer subtropical layer.

“The Silo reinterprets its robust forms, scale and materiality through a contemporary subtropical architectural expression, creating a building that acknowledges its industrial legacy, while responding to the way the precinct is occupied today,” Bureau^Proberts said.

The recreation level is one of the defining breaks in the tower. Plans include a lap pool, mature subtropical planting and shared resident facilities within an elevated communal garden. Landscaping continues through the podium and onto the rooftop, where a further garden forms what the architects describe as a “subtropical crown” to the building.

<img alt="First look: Graya plans The Silo as new pedestrian link between James Street and Gasworks" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f8451036-35a4-49a9-8d88-2ef4438eba3d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Silo%20Lane.png?VersionId=h8N31_rYmCEqoNrpt4kbYVQhJGZn60LH" />

At street level, the development has been designed to establish a more permeable block. Retail and hospitality tenancies address the public realm, while landscaped pedestrian spaces lead into the new laneway connection. Renders in the design report show the proposed “Silo Lane” as a substantial opening through the podium, framed by cylindrical concrete forms with cascading planting above.

The Silo continues Graya's move into larger apartment developments after building its reputation across high-end residential projects in Brisbane and the Gold Coast.

Joel Robinson

Graya buys Frasers Newstead site, plans The Silo between James Street and Gasworks precincts

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/wickton">Wickton</a>’s completed Linacre Rise development in Hampton is giving Bayside downsizers the opportunity to move into a spacious apartment near the beach, with the developer covering stamp duty for a limited time.

The 27-residence development has been designed for buyers who want to simplify their living arrangements without giving up the space, warmth and quality associated with a long-term family home. Most apartments have already been secured by Bayside locals, leaving a select collection of two and three-bedroom residences and penthouses available.

Two-bedroom apartments are priced from $1.275 million, three-bedroom residences from $2.25 million and penthouses from $3.375 million, with the completed homes available to inspect and move into now.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95289 project_image_fid=366760]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/linacre-rise-hampton-8-10-linacre-road-hampton-vic-3188">Linacre Rise</a> occupies an elevated position on one of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/hampton-vic-3188">Hampton</a>’s quiet, tree-lined streets, around 250 metres from the bay and 500 metres from Hampton’s village centre. Its setting gives residents access to the beach, local cafés, shops and Hampton Train Station while retaining the feel of an established residential neighbourhood.

Architecture and interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/ewert-leaf">Ewert Leaf</a> draw on the warmth and permanence of traditional brickwork, with the building integrated into terraced landscaping by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/john-patrick-landscape-architects">John Patrick</a>. Ground-floor apartments are elevated above the street and include private garden courtyards, while several upper-level residences have generous balconies and outlooks toward the bay.

Inside, the residences favour natural materials and generous proportions. Herringbone-pattern European oak flooring, natural stone benchtops, premium joinery and Swiss V-ZUG appliances are among the key inclusions, while integrated storage has been incorporated across kitchens, bathrooms, studies and living areas.

The kitchens have been planned as practical spaces for both everyday use and entertaining, with substantial island benches, detailed cabinetry and adjoining dining and living zones. Full-height wardrobes, plush bedroom carpeting and carefully considered lighting reinforce the residential character Wickton sought to retain for buyers moving from larger homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95289 project_image_fid=366769]

A Linacre Rise purchaser said the completed apartment had delivered the space, outlook and construction quality they had been seeking.

“The unit is very light, has views to die for over the bay, all construction materials and fittings are premium quality, we have secure parking for three cars, EV charging at very competitive rates, the neighbours are friendly and there is just a lovely ambiance about the place,” the purchaser said.

Environmental features include solar panels, shared electric vehicle charging stations, rainwater harvesting for toilet flushing and landscape irrigation, double-glazed windows and water-efficient fixtures and appliances.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95289 project_image_fid=366762]

The development was built by Balmain &amp; Co, with Wickton managing the broader development process through its in-house team.

For downsizers, the project’s completed status removes much of the uncertainty associated with buying off the plan. Purchasers can inspect the finished apartments, understand their outlook and proportions, and move in without waiting for construction to conclude.

The remaining selection includes north-oriented balconies, corner configurations and penthouses with elevated bay views. The developer-paid stamp duty initiative is available for a limited time, with potential savings of up to $200,000 depending on the residence purchased.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=95289]

Limited-time stamp duty offer at completed Linacre Rise apartments in Hampton

Luxury apartment buyers have long prioritised design, space and finishes, but increasingly they're placing equal importance on something less tangible: how easily they can live without relying on a car.

At <a>Richmond Square</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/fortis">Fortis</a> believes that convenience begins beyond the apartment itself, with the mixed-use precinct earning a near-perfect Walk Score of 99.

The development has been planned around the idea that some of the most valuable amenities aren't contained within a building, they're the restaurants, cafés, parks, transport connections and daily conveniences that can all be reached on foot.

Located just behind Swan Street and Church Street, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/richmond-square-1-wiltshire-street-richmond-vic-3121">Richmond Square</a> places residents within one of Melbo​u​rne's most established lifestyle precincts while offering a quieter residential setting removed from the busiest thoroughfares. East Richmond Station is moments away, trams run along both Swan and Church Streets, and the MCG, Melb​​ourne Park, Yarra River trails and the CBD are all within walking distance. At the same time, the precinct itself will introduce a curated mix of dining, retail, hospitality and wellness offerings, creating a destination that extends well beyond its residential buildings.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13181 project_image_fid=348530]

For Fortis, that combination of location and scale was what made the site unique.

"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/richmond-vic-3121">Richmond</a> is one of Melb​o​urne's most established and distinctive inner-city neighbourhoods, with a rare combination of dining, culture, recreation, public transport and proximity to the CBD," the developer said.

"The opportunity at Wiltshire Street was particularly compelling because the site sits slightly removed from the activity of Swan and Church Streets while remaining only moments from everything that makes the area desirable."

Rather than developing a standalone apartment building, Fortis consolidated 15 individual properties to create one of the larger development parcels assembled on Mel​b​ourne's city fringe in recent years. That allowed the team to deliver a genuine mixed-use precinct comprising 107 residences across Wiltshire House and Carmine House, premium office space, hospitality venues, retail, wellness offerings and a future 57-room hotel.

"The scale of the site allowed Fortis to think beyond a standalone apartment building," the developer said.

"Richmond Square could be planned as a complete lifestyle precinct, bringing homes, workplaces, dining, retail, hospitality and wellness together around a series of activated public spaces. The aim was to create a destination that feels connected to Richmond rather than separate from it."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13181 project_image_fid=348533]

The emphasis on walkability has also resonated with buyers.

Interest has been strongest from established owner-occupiers, particularly downsizers from Richmond and Melb​ourne's inner east who want to remain close to familiar restaurants, workplaces, family and social networks while moving into a more secure, lower-maintenance home. The project is also attracting Mornington Peninsula and interstate buyers seeking a Melb​ourne residence they can lock up and leave between visits.

Many are looking for generous living spaces, room to entertain, quality finishes and confidence in the project team, but location remains one of the biggest deciding factors.

"For many buyers, Richmond Square provides a way to simplify the practical side of home ownership without reducing the quality of their lifestyle," the sales team said.

"Location is also a major driver of interest. Buyers can remain connected to the CBD, major sporting events, the arts centres, local restaurants, cafes and bars and their family while living in a private and secure residence that is easy to lock up and leave for weekends or longer periods away."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13181 project_image_fid=348549]

The residences themselves have been designed with that buyer in mind. Award-winning architecture practice SJB and interior designers Hecker Guthrie have created spacious two and three-bedroom apartments and penthouses that prioritise generous living areas, natural light, bespoke joinery and private terraces. Above, a rooftop sanctuary by Acre includes landscaped lawns, bookable dining rooms, barbecue facilities, wellness spaces and panoramic views across the CBD, the MCG and Port Phillip Bay.

Fortis believes Richmond Square reflects a broader evolution in apartment living, where the surrounding neighbourhood becomes just as important as the residence itself.

"Richmond Square introduces a different proposition: generously proportioned residences within a genuinely mixed-use, hospitality-led destination," the developer said.

"The project's location and Walk Score of 99 further support a lifestyle where residents can complete many everyday journeys without relying on a car."

Fortis has assembled an experienced team that includes <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/hecker-guthrie">Hecker Guthrie</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/acre">Acre</a> and builder <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/hacer-group">Hacer Group</a>, reflecting the developer's commitment to creating projects with enduring design quality and meaningful connections to the communities in which they sit.&nbsp;

Richmond Square is an expression of that philosophy, bringing together homes, workplaces, hospitality and wellness within one of Me​lb​ourne's most walkable neighbourhoods.&nbsp;

Construction is now almost complete, providing purchasers with growing confidence ahead of its expected September 2026 completion.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=13181]

Walk Score of 99 places Richmond Square at the heart of Melbourne's most connected lifestyle

<h3 data-end="19" data-section-id="1dvgwoe" data-start="0">Summary</h3>

<ul data-end="634" data-start="21">
	<li data-end="170" data-section-id="1o77v31" data-start="21">Walker Corporation has lodged plans for a second major residential development in the Maroochydore City Centre, a 29-storey tower known as Celeste.</li>
	<li data-end="327" data-section-id="1lb0y6t" data-start="171">The Plus Studio-designed proposal at Lot 30 Sunshine Coast Parade would deliver 208 apartments, including four four-bedroom sub-penthouses and penthouses.</li>
	<li data-end="487" data-section-id="za720" data-start="328">The application comes as Walker doubles down on Maroochydore following the strong sales campaign at SOL by Walker, where the first tower is nearing sell-out.</li>
	<li data-end="634" data-section-id="5sovec" data-start="488">Walker is a key partner in the transformation of the Maroochydore City Centre, which is expected to ultimately deliver at least 4,000 new homes.</li>
</ul>

Walker Corporation is doubling down on Maroochydore following the successful sales campaign at its first residential project in the emerging CBD.

The national developer has filed plans for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/celeste-30-sunshine-coast-parade-maroochydore-qld-4558">Celeste</a>, a new 29-storey apartment tower at Lot 30 Sunshine Coast Parade, just metres from its under-construction SOL by Walker development.

The plans, prepared by Plus Studio, would see 208 apartments delivered across a 100-metre tower on the 2,376 sqm site, which fronts Sunshine Coast Parade, First Avenue and Future Way within the Maroochydore Priority Development Area.

<img alt="Walker" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="17038209-6fea-4ed2-855d-fd4df65b3d02" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-10%20at%2010.24.16%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=iZD.oVXcQn.aLpUytDAW.CWjxP4puWMy" />

The proposed apartment mix comprises 36 one-bedroom apartments, 48 two-bedroom apartments, 72 two-bedroom apartments with an additional multipurpose space, and 48 three-bedroom apartments.

The upper levels would be capped by two four-bedroom sub-penthouses and two four-bedroom penthouses, taking the total apartment count to 208. The preliminary yield study also provides 262 car spaces, 114 resident bicycle spaces and storage for each apartment.

It represents Walker's next major residential move in the new Maroochydore CBD after the success of SOL by Walker, its $220 million two-tower project nearby.

SOL launched to market in early 2025 and has since seen strong demand, particularly from local owner-occupiers. By February this year, Walker said the first SOL tower was nearing sell-out, with a strong waitlist also emerging for its recently released penthouse collection.

Construction is already underway on SOL, with the first tower expected to be completed in late 2027 and the second to follow in early 2028.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147777 project_image_fid=319846]

<h2 data-end="2518" data-section-id="1b2dyo5" data-start="2459">Celeste to rise 100 metres over Maroochydore City Centre</h2>

Celeste would take a different form to the twin 19-storey buildings at SOL.

Plus Studio has designed a single 100-metre tower above an activated podium, with the architecture responding to the site's prominent position and three street frontages.

The podium would incorporate commercial tenancies and public art, with sweeping façade elements wrapping the street edges. The scalloped concrete podium has been inspired by the patterns created in sand at low tide, while extensive landscaping would continue vertically through the tower.

The ground level plans show three commercial tenancies addressing Sunshine Coast Parade alongside the residential lobby and landscaped public realm. The podium would then accommodate several levels of car parking before the residential tower rises above.

<img alt="Celeste" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="121f77b1-71c5-46d7-9b36-0a7d474211ca" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-10%20at%2010.24.47%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=MGrg9Hb7HgzLN0Lelq_xrXNAruVl77ia" />

Plus Studio said the tower had been designed to maximise views from each apartment, taking in the Maroochy River, Sunshine Coast hinterland, Cotton Tree and Maroochydore Beach and ocean.

Those views have also shaped one of the project's key features, with Walker proposing to put the primary resident amenity on Level 29 rather than lower within the building.

The rooftop would feature a 284.9 sqm pool area with an infinity edge, along with a cold pool, spa, sauna, 93.2 sqm gym, sunset lounge, BBQ and dining areas, pool deck and private dining space. Cabanas and day beds are also shown across the recreation level.

The two penthouses would extend across the upper levels and each feature private terraces and plunge pools.

<h2 data-end="4202" data-section-id="v5f4ix" data-start="4160">Walker's growing Maroochydore footprint</h2>

Celeste further reinforces Walker's commitment to the transformation of Maroochydore City Centre.

Walker is one of the key partners delivering the new CBD alongside Sunshine Coast Council and SunCentral Maroochydore, with the broader 62-hectare Priority Development Area occupying the former Horton Park Golf Course and surrounding land.

The precinct is ultimately expected to accommodate at least 4,000 new homes as Maroochydore evolves into the Sunshine Coast's principal commercial and residential centre.

When SOL secured approval in February 2025, Walker Managing Director and CEO David Gallant described it as the "first of many residential projects" the company planned for the Maroochydore City Centre.

Celeste now provides the clearest indication yet of what comes next.

The site sits immediately within the new CBD, with the design report identifying Sunshine Plaza and surrounding parkland within walking distance and Maroochydore Beach around a five-minute drive away.

For Walker, the timing of the application comes as its first residential bet on the new CBD appears to have been vindicated.

SOL has progressed from planning approval to construction while its first release has approached sell-out, giving Walker confidence to push ahead with another 208 apartments and take its residential pipeline in the Maroochydore City Centre to around 450 dwellings across the two projects.

Celeste remains subject to planning approval, with the architectural material describing the scheme as a preliminary yield study that may change through the assessment process.

Walker doubles down on Maroochydore with 29-storey Celeste apartment tower

For most Australians, buying an apartment is one of the biggest financial decisions they'll ever make

The location, floorplan and price are often the first considerations, but in recent years another question has become increasingly important: who is actually delivering the project?

A series of high-profile builder collapses, construction delays and defect concerns have fundamentally changed how many Victorians approach buying off the plan. The collapse of Porter Davis in 2023, which reportedly left around 1,700 homes unfinished, became one of the most visible examples of the risks that can emerge when a construction company fails. <a href="https://www.equifax.com.au/sites/default/files/lpassets/pdf/Final-Business-Market-Pulse-June-Sector-Deep-Dive-Report-2.pdf">Similar challenges across the broader construction sector</a> have left buyers asking more questions before signing a contract.

As Victoria continues encouraging higher-density housing to address supply shortages, transparency is becoming just as important as location or price.

One tool increasingly entering the conversation is the <a href="https://icirt.com/">Independent Construction Industry Rating Tool (iCIRT)</a>, an independent assessment framework designed to help buyers better understand the developer or builder behind a project. Originally developed by Equifax in consultation with government and industry as part of NSW's Construct NSW reforms, the system has since expanded nationally.

<h2 data-end="1519" data-section-id="7nmx3" data-start="1492">What is an iCIRT rating?</h2>

Most Australians are familiar with independent ratings in everyday life.

We compare ANCAP safety ratings before buying a car. We look at Health Star Ratings in supermarkets. Banks rely on credit assessments when lending money.

Until recently, however, there has been very little independent information available to help apartment buyers assess the business responsible for delivering a residential project.

That gap is what iCIRT was designed to address.

Builders, developers and other construction professionals with an iCIRT rating have demonstrated high-trust characteristics through an independent, evidence-based assessment across six criteria: Character, Capability, Conduct, Capacity, Capital and Counterparties. This involves a rigorous review of financial health, past project track record, and ethical conduct. Crucially, an iCIRT rating could help provide property buyers with confidence that they are working with a professional who has demonstrated the capability, capacity, and willingness to return and rectify issues.

Importantly, iCIRT is not a recommendation to purchase a particular property, nor is it a traditional credit rating. It is an independent assessment framework designed to provide objective information about a construction business using a <a href="https://icirt.com/sites/default/files/2025-08/iCIRT-Methodology-Issue1-May-2021.pdf">published methodology</a>.

The system has been widely adopted in New South Wales, where more than one-third of medium and large residential builders and developers now hold an iCIRT rating, representing over two-thirds of the state's residential building market by value as of 2025/26.

<h2 data-end="3126" data-section-id="h6ohtj" data-start="3084">Why buyers are doing more due diligence</h2>

For many buyers, particularly those purchasing off the plan, the biggest risk isn't whether they'll like the kitchen finishes.

It's whether the project will be delivered on time, to the expected quality, and by a company capable of completing the development.

<a href="https://icirt.com/sites/default/files/2026-07/iCIRT%202025%20Consumer%20Survey%20Report%20v05.pdf">Consumer research commissioned by iCIRT</a> found more than half of respondents believed current protections do not adequately safeguard buyers from builder insolvencies or defective projects. Other research found 88 per cent of prospective buyers would seek independent ratings or due diligence before purchasing, while 90 per cent said trust in construction professionals is essential.

That doesn't mean buyers should rely on a single rating alone.

Independent legal advice, understanding the contract, and seeking financial advice all remain important parts of the due diligence process.

However, an independent assessment can provide another source of information alongside those traditional checks.

<h2 data-end="4138" data-section-id="pquzxc" data-start="4094">Trust is becoming a competitive advantage</h2>

The conversation isn't only changing for buyers.

Developers are also recognising that trust has become an increasingly important part of the sales process.

Five years ago, purchasers typically asked about floorplans, finishes and settlement dates.

Today, sales teams are increasingly being asked about the developer's experience, financial stability, previous projects and construction partners.

For companies with strong governance and established delivery records, an independent iCIRT rating provides another way to demonstrate those credentials before buyers even visit a display suite.

According to Equifax, the assessment can also help businesses drive sales and <a href="https://icirt.com/resources-for-business/icirt-rating-helps-scion-secure-high-value-projects">secure high-value projects</a>, as well as identify operational improvements and <a href="https://icirt.com/resources-for-business/mirvac-reinforces-brand-trust-and-quality-independent-icirt-rating">attract top talent</a>.

<h2 data-end="4962" data-section-id="1j54ng5" data-start="4912">Beyond buyers: lenders are paying attention too</h2>

The influence of independent construction ratings is also extending beyond consumers.

According to Stamford Capital's Real Estate Debt Capital Markets Survey, an increasing number of lenders now incorporate iCIRT ratings into their due diligence processes when assessing residential development finance applications.

The survey found lender adoption has continued to rise, with many respondents saying independent assessments provide additional insight into governance, counterparties and delivery capability beyond traditional financial analysis. Some lenders also reported declining funding applications where businesses had poor or no ratings.

As construction costs remain elevated and access to development finance becomes more selective, demonstrating credibility is becoming increasingly valuable.

<h2 data-end="5801" data-section-id="1qazuxs" data-start="5772">What it means for Victoria</h2>

Victoria's apartment market is entering a new phase.

The state is seeking to accelerate higher-density housing while simultaneously introducing reforms aimed at improving confidence in residential construction.

For buyers, that means there are more tools available than ever before to research the businesses behind a project.

For developers, it signals that transparency is becoming another point of differentiation in an increasingly competitive market.

Buyers are asking more questions than ever before and increasingly expecting independent information, not just marketing material, before making one of the biggest financial commitments of their lives.

Find out how to get iCIRT rated <a href="https://www.icirt.com/sites/default/files/2025-08/iCIRT-Infographic-Assessment-Process-Final.pdf">here</a>.

<hr data-end="6469" data-start="6466" />
The information contained in this article is general in nature and does not constitute personal, financial, legal or tax advice. It does not take into account your personal objectives, financial situation or needs. Therefore, you should consider whether the information is appropriate to your circumstances before acting on it and, where appropriate, seek independent professional advice.

This article contains links to third-party websites. These links are provided for convenience only. Equifax Australia does not control and is not responsible for the content, accuracy or privacy practices of external sites.

Copyright © 2026 Equifax Australia Information Services and Solutions Pty Ltd. All rights reserved.

Staff reporter

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News