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Liberal MP Craig Laundy and his wife Suzanne are off to an $8.282 million Hunters Hill riverfront home.
The three level luxury mansion - built with numerous glass walls to frame the water backdrop - was sold within a week of its recent listing.
Set on 903 sqm, the four bedroom home features a heated swimming pool set amongst landscaped gardens and a deepwater jetty on the Parramatta River.
Black Diamondz Property Concierge sold the home which will show up in the House of Representatives register of pecluniary interests in Suzanne’s name.
It is a purchase just on the otherside of the Parramatta River from their redundant Abbotsford riverfront apartment, which fetched a bullish $3.89 million pre-auction recently.
Both have views of the Gladesville Bridge.
Bought for $3.117 million in 2014, the apartments with Coco Republic decor had four bedrooms, three bathrooms. It overlooked its 10 metre private marina berth.
It had been listed with a price guide of $3.25 million through PRB Real Estate agent Joe Rizzo, who described the apartment as a house-sized haven.
The Laundy's had previously been in Strathfield, where they owned for nine years before selling for $5.7 million in 2014.
Craig is the assistant minister for innovation, industry and science in the new Turnbull ministry.
Laundy represents the inner west electorate of Reid, which he won at the July election securing 49 percent in the first preference votes.
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Craig Laundy leads the pollie's prestige property tally

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Reverie, a private oasis overlooking Logans Beach, near Warrnambool has been sold.
It came after being offered with a revised $1.8 million asking price by Sergio Masini and wife, Kerri.
The home curves in a gentle arc with the 34-metre-long glass facade fronting the ocean, offering ocean views from almost every room.
It was built by the children's author Paul Jennings and his then wife, Clair overlooking a whale nursery.
Last traded for $1.35 million in 2010, the 4.8 hectare Hopkins Road holding comes with a private cave, rock pool, and sandy beach.
It was listed through Penny and Nick Adamson of Charles Stewart Warrnambool.
This article was first published in the Weekend Australian Mansion Australia property section.
 
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Riverie, Warrnambool trophy home sold

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A private local investor group has purchased the Peppers Mineral Springs Hotel in Hepburn Springs.
The 4-star, 40 room, boutique Victorian hotel is located in the picturesque Daylesford and Macedon Ranges - one of Victoria’s top hot spots located less than 75 minutes from Melbourne.
Built in the 1930’s, the hotel is a fusion of Spanish mission, Arts &amp; Craft with classic art deco features, with the unique exterior having established it as an icon in the region.
The property includes the iconic heritage listed Villa Parma which is on a separate title. The public areas of the hotel had been refurbished by the designer, the late Stuart Rattle.
There were planning approvals for a new function centre, wellness retreat, 26 new hotel suites and an indoor pool.
CBRE’s Scott Callow sold the freehold property and business on behalf of the owners, Wayne Cross and Chris Malden, who have owned and developed the property since 2000.
Mr Callow said the property received over 50 enquiries, with multiple offers.
“The eventual purchaser was a local investor group that was attracted to the strong Peppers brand and the fact that the hotel is recognised as one of the premium accommodation and spa facilities in the region,” Mr Callow said.
The property has won several industry accolades including best destination day spa resort, One Hat in Age Good Food Guide 2015 &amp; Three Glass wine list in Gourmet Traveller 2015 regional hotel restaurant of the year and top 100 restaurants of Australia.
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Peppers Mineral Springs Hotel sold to investor group

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Mortgage market activity has decreased, according to CoreLogic, especially in Queensland and WA.
<a href="/images/2016/09/26/Screen%20Shot%202016-09-26%20at%2011.42.52%20AM.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/09/26/Screen%20Shot%202016-09-26%20at%2011.42.52%20AM.jpg" alt="">
 
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Mortgage market activity decreases: CoreLogic

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Centuria Property Funds has unconditionally exchanged on the sale of its commercial office property located at 90 Crown Street, Wollongong.
The gross sale price was $43.9 million to a Melbourne based funds management group.
It sets a new record for the Wollongong commercial property market achieving rate per square of $4,786.
The asset was purchased in 2005 for $30.675 million.
According to Jason Huljich, CEO of Unlisted Property at Centuria, Wollongong has recently received significant interest from investors as yields continue to compress in traditional core markets.
“Although much of Centuria’s investment focus is on major metropolitan and fringe markets, primarily in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, where buyer demand has been expanding significantly, we are also seeing strong demand within the core regional markets such as Wollongong,” said Mr Huljich.
“90 Crown Street is well located within the heart of the Wollongong CBD, with excellent access to retail, entertainment and transport links. As one of only a limited number of office developments in the market designed to attract corporate and government occupiers, this landmark property attracted substantial interest from investors.
“Ongoing upgrades to the Wollongong city centre, the expansion of the Wollongong Public Hospital and its popularity for both business and lifestyle have also driven buyer demand,” he said.
Mr Huljich said interest in the sales campaign and the record rate per square metre were validations of Centuria’s active management philosophy.
“The property is fully leased, primarily to Government tenants and delivers an estimated annual income of $3,636,018, which equates to a passing yield of 8.3 percent.
“While managing the asset, Centuria undertook various works to improve the building’s sustainability, achieving a NABERS rating of 4.5 stars and over 70% of the leases were reset prior to taking the asset to market.
"Development approval for additional office and retail space was also secured, which contributed to achieving an excellent result for investors,” he said.
The sale was managed by Knight Frank’s Richard Garland and Jonathan Vaughan, in collaboration with MMJ Real Estate -Wollongong's Geoff Jones, Travis Machan and Tim Jones.
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Centuria exchanges 90 Crown Street Wollongong for record price

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Darwin is the slowest selling market in Australia according to CoreLogic.
Its vendors need to offer the highest discount on asking price to secure a sale.
<a href="/images/2016/09/26/Screen%20Shot%202016-09-26%20at%2011.42.43%20AM.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/09/26/Screen%20Shot%202016-09-26%20at%2011.42.43%20AM.jpg" alt="">
 
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Sydney the quickest selling market with Darwin property time on market at 98 days: CoreLogic

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Matraville is set for a new residential development for August 2017 with the construction of Verge.
Verge Matraville encompasses a collection of 22 two and three bedroom apartments, with many enjoying city, Botany Bat and surrounding parkland views.
Prices for the apartments start from $865,000 for two bedrooms and $995,000 for the three bedrooms.
A colour palette of turquoise blue and green inspired by the ocean contrasts with tones of pastel oranges, wile grey oak timber graces the floor.
The gourmet kitchens feature CaesarStone bench tops, breakfast bars and splash backs.
The building will also feature street-level retail spaces.
For more information, <a href="https://www.vergematraville.com.au" target="_blank">click here.</a>
 
 
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Verge Matraville set for August 2017 completion

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A Lake MacDonald home in the Sunshine Coast, nicknamed the lady of the lake, has been listed for $2.85 million.
The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-lake+macdonald-116809891" target="_blank">eight-bedroom, seven-bathroom homestead </a>has all the features of a traditional Queenslander including dowel timber verandahs which wrap around the property.
Sat on around two hectares, the property has a 25 metre resort style pool, a 45,000 litre rainwater tank and botanically rich gardens. 
The home is listed for normal sale through Kess Prior at Hinternoosa Real Estate Cooroy
It previously traded for $2.2 million in 2006.
The median house price in Lake Macdonald is $665,000 according to CoreLogic. 
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Lady of the lake listed at Lake MacDonald

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Newcastle East takes the top spot as Newcastle's 2016/2017 hotspot for investing in houses with an expected increase of five percent over the next 12 months.
The current median price at Newcastle East is $996,250, according to APM, in their forecast developed by APM senior economist, Dr Andrew Wilson.
<img src="/images/2016/09/23/4%20Beach%20Street.jpg" alt="">
An example would be a two bedroom house at <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/4-beach-street-newcastle-east-nsw-2300-2012954057" target="_blank">4 Beach Street</a> that was recently sold for $1,309,000, which is $312,750 more than the median price.
The Smart Investor magazine, published by Fairfax Media, ranked Clarence Town as second best hotspot along with Soldiers Point.
Suburb                  Postcode           Median price           12 month forecast
Newcastle East       2300                  $996,250                             5%
Clarence Town       2321                   $490,000                             4%
Soldiers Point         2317                  $695,000                            4%
Carey Bay              2283                  $435,000                            3%
Wickham               2293                  $525,000                            3%
Islington                2296                  $510,000                            3%
Tighes Hill              2297                  $560,000                            3%
Kilaben Bay            2283                  $600,000                            3%
Cooks Hill               2300                  $775,000                           3%
The Hill                   2300                 $930,000                            3%
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Newcastle East tops list of 2017 Newcastle property hotspots

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Griffith takes the top spot on a list of Canberra's 2016/2017 house hotspots, with an expected increase of 8% over the next 12 months, in a forecast developed by APM senior economist, Dr Andrew Wilson.
The median price at Griffith is currently $1,300,000, according to APM, and some sales in the region are continuing to push the media price higher.
An example would be a two bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-act-griffith-122914390" target="_blank">18 Bannister Gardens</a> (above) that was recently sold for $1,370,000, which is $70,000 above the median price
The Smart Investor magazine, published by Fairfax Media, ranked Bonner, Harrison and Chifley as equal second best hotspot regions for houses in the ACT.
Suburb        Postcode       Median price      12 month forecast
Griffith        2603             $1,300,000         6%
Bonner        2914             $570,000           5%
Harrison      2914             $655,650           5%
Chifley        2606              $710,000          5%
Wright        2611              $750,000          4%
Crace         2911               $735,000          4%
Ainslie        2602               $895,000          4%
Campbell    2612               $1,079,500       4%
O'Connor    2602                $932,500         4%
Torrens       2607               $734,000         4%
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Griffith tops list of Canberra house hotspots

Buying into a masterplanned community often means committing to a vision still years from taking shape. At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a>, that vision is already visible.

Residents have moved into the completed first stage, landscaped spaces are established, and the next chapter is now underway. Stage 1 has been completed and settled, with Stage 2 now selling off-the-plan.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/pbd-architects">PBD Architects</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> combines attainable apartment living with sustainability initiatives rarely seen at this price point, including rooftop solar, battery storage and a resident EV-sharing program.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6RNt3AvtBpI?si=JUhuCV2ZRXsYaoJZ" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Located on Schofi​elds Road, just moments from Tal​lawong Metro Station and Schof​ields Train Station, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> has been designed to appeal to a broad mix of buyers, from first-home purchasers looking for a foothold in Sy​dney's property market to downsizers seeking a connected, low-maintenance lifestyle.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> has been conceived as a thoughtfully planned masterplanned community that will evolve over multiple stages, with buyers now able to secure one, two and three-bedroom apartments within a neighbourhood that is already beginning to establish its identity.

One of the project's defining features is its focus on sustainability. Solar energy systems, battery storage and future EV charging infrastructure have been incorporated throughout the development, reflecting a long-term approach to both environmental performance and everyday convenience.

Sustainability sits at the centre of the development's vision, with solar energy systems, battery storage and future EV charging infrastructure integrated throughout the community.

That emphasis on future-ready living extends beyond the technology. Landscaped communal gardens, outdoor gathering spaces and plans for a future retail precinct aim to create a neighbourhood where residents can access daily conveniences without travelling far from home.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149637 project_image_fid=351027]

The apartments themselves have been designed with liveability front of mind. Rather than chasing maximum density, the focus has been placed on creating practical homes with generous natural light, usable layouts and strong connections to outdoor space.

Importantly, these design principles have been applied consistently across the one, two and three-bedroom apartment offerings.

The appeal of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> is also closely linked to its location within Syd​ney's rapidly evolving north-west growth corridor. Over the past decade, major infrastructure investment has transformed the area, with new transport links, business precincts and community facilities reshaping suburbs like Talla​wong and Schofiel​ds.

The agent says buyers are increasingly recognising the area's long-term potential.

"Typical buyers that we're finding across <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> especially are your first-home buyers, your investors, your upsizers as well as your downsizers," Hawes says.

Connectivity remains one of the project's strongest drawcards. Residents have access to both Tallaw​ong Metro Station and Schofi​elds Train Station, providing links to the Sydn​ey CBD, Norw​est Business Park, Macquari​e Park and other major employment hubs. Retail centres including Rous​e Hill Town Centre and Sch​ofields Village are also nearby, alongside schools, parks and future healthcare infrastructure.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149637 project_image_fid=351031]

For Stage 1 resident Roji, it is the balance between convenience and comfort that has defined the experience of living at Kew.

"For me, it's a balance of quality and convenience," she says. "Everything I need is right here."

"If I wanted to catch the train, Scho​fields Station is just around the corner. Tallaw​ong Metro connects me to the city."

More importantly, she says, the development has delivered something that cannot be measured in floorplans or specifications.

"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> feels like home."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149637 project_image_fid=351024]

As Stage 2 enters the market, that lived experience may be one of the project's strongest selling points. Buyers are not purchasing into an untested concept or a future promise. They are joining a community that is already taking shape.

Ongoing investment in transport, retail, healthcare and public open space continues to strengthen the appeal of Syd​ney's north-west growth corridor, while <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a>'s established first stage provides buyers with a tangible sense of the community's future direction.

For a limited time, buyer can secure a new home at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> with just a $10,000.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=149637]

Joel Robinson

Kew Tallawong: A growing community taking shape in Sydney's north-west

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/freecity">Freecity</a> has received development approval for its 51-storey mixed-use tower at 153-157 Walker Street, North Sydney, set to be one of the tallest mixed-use residential-led buildings in one of Sydney’s most sought-after commercial and residential addresses.

Lodged as a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) through the Housing Delivery Authority (HDA) pathway and approved by the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure following a comprehensive public exhibition and submissions process, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/153-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">the project</a> will deliver 296 apartments, alongside a 170-room, luxury hotel, activated retail and significant public domain improvements.

Situated just 200 metres from Victoria Cross Metro Station, on one of the largest developable sites in North Sydney, the development will rise to 234 metres, making it one of the tallest buildings in the suburb. With an end value of approximately $1.5 billion, the project responds directly to the NSW Government’s mandate to accelerate housing delivery in well-located, transit-connected areas.

<img alt="Freecity gets green light for mixed-use residential and hotel tower in North Sydney" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="192ec455-94bf-4e01-83ef-922b1b269d67" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Freecity%20-%20Walker%20Street%20North%20Sydney%201%20RESIZED%20.jpg?VersionId=Bzqp0SBHCDvLAHjA4QXkjuGoOEIh73Jl" />

The apartment mix will cater to a broad range of buyers, with 65 studio and one-bedroom apartments, 139 two-bedroom residences, 35 three-bedroom apartments, 48 four-bedroom homes, and nine penthouses. Residents will have access to a dedicated amenity level on Level 33, featuring a swimming pool with views towards the Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House and North Sydney CBD, as well as a gym, library, shared kitchen, lounge and outdoor entertaining areas.

The hotel will occupy the lower six levels of the building and include meeting and function spaces, a wellness centre with gym, yoga studio, swimming pool and sauna, further strengthening North Sydney's growing hospitality offering.

At ground level, the development has been designed to improve pedestrian connections through the precinct. More than 700 sqm of retail space will activate the street frontage, while a landscaped through-site link connecting Walker Street, Little Walker Street and Doris Fitton Park will provide new public open space with seating, paving and extensive native landscaping.

Freecity Group Co-Founder and Joint CEO Tony Sun said the project represents one of the most significant development opportunities currently available in North Sydney.

"This is one of the most significant development sites in North Sydney and it comes at a pivotal moment for the precinct," Sun said.

"North Sydney is undergoing a genuine transformation, and this project will contribute housing the city urgently needs while creating a landmark destination."

Executive Director of Development Michael Romano said demand for both residential and hotel accommodation would continue to strengthen as the Metro precinct matures.

"The structural demand for high-quality housing and hotel accommodation in North Sydney is compelling, and will only grow as the precinct continues to evolve around the new Metro station," Romano said.

Architectus has designed the tower, orientating the apartments to maximise views towards Sydney Harbour while introducing a sculpted façade intended to respond to light, wind and the surrounding skyline.

Architectus Principal Marko Damic said the design sought to create a tower that contributes to the public realm as much as the skyline.

"We wanted to design a tower that doesn't just sit in the skyline but actively participates and contributes to city life," Damic said.

First look: Freecity gets green light for mixed-use apartment and hotel tower in North Sydney

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/abadeen">Abadeen</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/perifa">PERIFA</a> have celebrated the topping out of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf,</a> marking a significant milestone in the delivery of one of Syd​ney's most anticipated waterfront communities.

Located on Sydney's harbourfront at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/putney-nsw-2112">Putney</a>, the project has now reached its highest structural point, with construction progressing strongly towards completion in 2027. 
&nbsp; 
The milestone was celebrated on-site with project partners Phoenix Property Investors, Mitsubishi Estate Asia, Versatile Construction, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, consultants and stakeholders, to recognise the collective effort behind the transformation of the historic waterfront site into a vibrant new residential, marina and lifestyle destination.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362240] 
&nbsp; 
<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> will deliver a mix of waterfront residences and terraces, complemented by a private 36-berth marina, waterfront dining opportunities and a revitalised foreshore designed to reconnect the community with the river's edge. 
&nbsp; 
Abadeen Executive Chairman and Founder Justin Brown said the project represented a rare opportunity to create the next chapter in Sydn​ey's long history of successful waterfront precincts. 
&nbsp; 
"Throughout Sydney, some of the city's most sought-after addresses have emerged from carefully considered waterfront precincts such as Woolloom​ooloo Wharf, Walsh Bay and Breakfast Point," Brown said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362566] 
&nbsp; 
"What makes these places so successful is that they become much more than residential developments," Brown said.

"They bring together homes, hospitality, marina facilities, public spaces and a strong sense of community in locations where future supply is incredibly limited."

Brown has long described absolute waterfront land in Sy​dney as "finite."

"Once these opportunities are developed, they are rarely replicated. That's why Syd​ney's waterfront precincts have consistently demonstrated strong demand and long-term value growth over many decades. 
&nbsp; 
"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> is one of the few remaining opportunities to secure a residence within a masterplanned waterfront community that combines direct water access, marina ownership opportunities and a genuine village lifestyle just moments from the Sy​dney CBD."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362564] 
&nbsp; 
PERIFA Founder and Managing Director Fabrizio Perilli said the project reflected a shared commitment to delivering exceptional places that create long-term value for residents and the broader community. 
&nbsp; 
"The topping out milestone is a significant achievement for the Versatile Group and a testament to the collaboration between all project partners, consultants and contractors involved," Perilli said. 
&nbsp; 
"Beyond the residences themselves, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> will establish a new waterfront destination that celebrates the history, character and lifestyle of this unique location while creating a lasting legacy for future generations."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=291195] 
&nbsp; 
Construction is being delivered by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/versatile">Versatile Construction</a>, with structural works now substantially complete across the precinct. Attention will progressively shift to the construction of the waterview terraces, apartment façades, services and interior fit-out works over the coming months. 
&nbsp; 
With limited residences and marina berths remaining, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> continues to attract strong interest from owner occupiers and downsizers seeking a premium waterfront lifestyle within close proximity to Putne​y Village, Rh​odes, Top Ry​de and the Syd​ney CBD. 
&nbsp; 
As one of the last opportunities to secure a residence within a new masterplanned waterfront community on Sy​dney Harbour, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> is expected to remain a highly sought-after address for years to come.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=13962]

Abadeen, PERIFA, top out Putney Wharf harbourfront precinct

Kew has long been regarded as one of Melbourne's premier residential suburbs. It's a location defined by its grand period homes, leafy streets and some of the city's most prestigious schools, yet it has often sat just outside the spotlight cast on neighbouring Hawthorn and Camberwell.

Increasingly, however, buyers are recognising that Kew offers much of what draws people to those suburbs, with a quieter residential setting, exceptional amenity and long-term owner-occupier appeal.

Within a few minutes' walk, residents can access Kew Junction, one of Melbourne's most established village centres. Cafés, bakeries, restaurants, supermarkets, boutique retailers and everyday services are all on the doorstep, with local favourites including Centonove, Adeney Milk Bar Cafe, and Frank &amp; Harri creating the type of walkable lifestyle that has become increasingly difficult to find in Melbourne's inner east. Beyond the immediate neighbourhood, Glenferrie Road's renowned shopping and dining precinct in Hawthorn and the retail, dining and entertainment offerings of Camberwell Junction are both just a short drive or tram ride away.

The suburb is equally well connected. Tram routes 48 and 109 provide direct access to the CBD, while High Street and Cotham Road connect residents to the wider inner east.&nbsp;Nearby access to the Eastern Freeway also places the Yarra Valley, Mornington Peninsula and Melbourne Airport within easy reach, adding another layer of convenience for weekend travel.&nbsp;It's a rare combination of connectivity and tranquillity, where quiet residential streets sit just moments from some of Melbourne's most established shopping and lifestyle precincts.

For families, Kew remains one of Melbourne's most tightly held addresses. Carey Baptist Grammar School, Xavier College, Methodist Ladies' College, Trinity Grammar, Ruyton Girls' School and Genazzano FCJ College are all nearby, while the Yarra River parklands, walking trails and sporting clubs provide another layer of lifestyle appeal.

It's within this established pocket that developer Ricdanic is delivering <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/wimba-ave-kew-9-11-wimba-avenue-kew-vic-3101">Wimba Ave</a>, a boutique collection of just 13 residences across two buildings named after its location on the tree-lined Wimba Avenue,&nbsp;within one of Kew's most prestigious pockets where homes have been known to sell up to and above $8 million.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140755 project_image_fid=354809]

The residences prioritise the space that buyers are increasingly searching for but struggling to find in established suburbs. Living areas extend beyond five metres in width, ceiling heights range from three to five metres, and apartments open onto private gardens averaging around 125 sqm. Selected residences also feature balconies of approximately 60 sqm, while premium inclusions include Miele appliances, double-glazed windows, EV readiness, fully electric systems and a 7.2 NatHERS energy rating.

Architect Chris Idle says opportunities to deliver homes of this scale within established suburbs have become increasingly uncommon.

"There are very few opportunities to do these kinds of developments in leafy, established suburbs," he says. "To get this level of amenity, natural light, and architectural freedom in such a setting is extremely rare."

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The architecture draws on Kew's established character through the use of handmade Krause bricks, while landscaping by John Patrick introduces 23 plant species, including nine native varieties, creating an environment which focuses just as much on nature as it does the building.

Construction on Wimba Ave is well underway by renowned high-end builder Sinjen, with completion expected in late 2027. Prices start from $2.22 million.

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The enduring appeal of Kew's tree-lined streets and village lifestyle

"For me, it's the location." That was the first thing Chris pointed to when reflecting on why he and his wife Marita decided to purchase at Candela Ivanhoe, the under-construction new apartment development by Salter Brothers in the heart of the north-eastern M​elb​ourne​ suburb. ​

"We've lived here before… everything is here," Chris said.

"Our doctor is around the corner, there's dentists, pilates, everything we need, restaurants, fast food places, two train stations, Ivanhoe and Darebin, both in walking distance. You don't need anything else."

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Just 10 kilometres from Melbo​urn​e's CBD, Ivanhoe combines direct city connectivity with the amenity of an established village community. Residents have access to highly regarded schools, expansive parklands, public transport, and a thriving retail and hospitality precinct centred around Upper Heidelberg Road, all within a neighbourhood that has retained its leafy character despite its proximity to the city.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/candela-ivanhoe-40-upper-heidelberg-road-ivanhoe-vic-3079">Candela Ivanhoe</a> sits within the heart of this established landscape, positioned just moments from Ivanhoe Village and within walking distance of many of the suburb's most sought-after amenities.

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From Candela, residents can access cafés, grocers, wine bars, restaurants and essential services on foot, while Ivanhoe Station and Darebin Station provide direct connectivity across Mel​bour​ne. The development is also surrounded by some of the suburb's best-known lifestyle destinations, including Pinkie, Laurent, Enni, Docasa and Woodfire Pizza e Cucina, alongside Ivanhoe Plaza, Woolworths, pharmacies and specialty retailers.

Green space is another defining feature of the suburb. Darebin Parklands, Ivanhoe Park, Nellie Ibbot Park and the Yarra River trail network provide extensive opportunities for recreation, while Ivanhoe Golf Course and Ivanhoe Tennis Club continue to underpin the area's long-established lifestyle appeal.

The suburb's education offering further strengthens demand. Ivanhoe Grammar School, Ivanhoe Girls' Grammar School, Mary Immaculate Primary School and Ivanhoe Primary School have helped establish the area as one of Melbou​​rne's most sought-after schooling precincts, attracting families and downsizers alike who want to remain connected to the area.

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While location was the priority for Marita and Chris, the project itself also needed to meet their expectations.

"Whilst location was paramount, I was also looking at design of the environment and Candela ticked every box," Marita said.

"We're just thrilled with our choice."

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Developed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/salter-brothers">Salter Brothers</a>, Candela Ivanhoe has been designed to complement its village setting, with an emphasis on generous floorplans, natural light and practical everyday living.

Residents will have access to a range of shared amenities, including a communal rooftop garden and dedicated residential lounge, complemented by a ground-floor café and lifestyle wellbeing centre, helping foster the sense of community already emerging among future owners.

That approach has resonated strongly with the market. More than 90 per cent of purchasers at Candela Ivanhoe are owner-occupiers, with buyers ranging from downsizers and second-home buyers to young families and first home buyers, creating a genuinely multi-generational community of grandparents, parents and children. It reflects a broader shift across Melbo​​urne's apartment market, where buyers are increasingly prioritising neighbourhood quality, lifestyle amenity and long-term liveability.

Currently under construction by Ironside, Candela Ivanhoe comprises 58 apartments. Candela Ivanhoe is scheduled for completion in the coming months, and residents can move in from September. One to four bedroom residences, prices from $649,000 and limited opportunities remaining.

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