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Tasmania has see a spike in mortgage market activity, according to CoreLogic. But across the mainland activity in financing inquiry has been subdued.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Tasmania sees mortgages market activity spike: CoreLogic

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Any local will tell you that Gladstone has always been a boom and bust town, according to Herron Todd White.
Investment in the town soars when a new project begins as demonstrated over the past 50 years, the valuation firm advised.
"This is always followed by a bust during which the town re-gathers itself and gets back to normal.
"Presently we are in the fourth year of Gladstone’s latest downward cycle.
"Established housing has declined as much as 50% and units as much as 80% from values achieved in the peak of the market."
It advised in its September report the vacancy rate peaked in the first quarter of 2016 at just over 10% and has been steadily falling since.
"It may indicate we have seen the worst of this bust.
"Only time will tell," HTW advised.
The traditional property types in Gladstone have all been established on the back of major booms in the industrial sector, according to Herron Todd White's latest monthly market indicator.
The property advisory firm says that prior to the 1960s Gladstone remained a relatively small port city serving the local cattle industry.
In 1963 Queensland Alumina Refinery (QAL) was announced, beginning over a decade long boom during which Gladstone’s population doubled.
The first, second and third stages of the refinery were built along with the first stage of the Gladstone Power Station.
Most of Gladstone’s central suburbs including South and West Gladstone and Barney Point were well established.
Homes in these suburbs are popular in today’s market given their close proximity to the CBD and the varying views available from the low and high set style homes. These suburbs also offer good opportunities to renovate older style homes in central locations.
The entry level price point for homes in West Gladstone and South Gladstone is around $200,000 in the current market.
The early 1980s saw the next wave of industrial development with the commencement of the Boyne Aluminium Smelter. Much of the established parts of Boyne Island and adjoining Tannum Sands were developed during this time. Construction ranged between on ground and high set homes.
Price points for this style of housing in Boyne Island and Tannum Sands ranges between $300,000 and $350,000 in the current market. Gladstone suburbs such as Kin Kora, Sun Valley and parts of Clinton and New Auckland were also established during this time. Kin Kora and Sun Valley comprise mostly high set homes and are popular well established suburbs in today’s market. Prices in these suburbs range typically between $250,000 and $350,000.
In the 1990s the coal industry boomed giving Gladstone another boom in property prices and demand. New housing estates in Clinton, New Auckland, Glen Eden and Telina were developed comprising mostly 3-bedroom on ground brick houses. New Auckland and Clinton were further established in the early 2000s when Rio Tinto announced the Yarwun Alumina Refinery was to proceed.
The most recent construction boom (2010 to 2012) commenced when construction started on three LNG plants being built on Curtis Island off the coast of Gladstone.
This boom saw fringe suburbs including Glen Eden, New Auckland and Kirkwood being extensively developed with modern housing.
It noted a transformation also occurred in Gladstone City with multiple high rise apartment buildings going up in the CBD and extensive townhouse developments taking place in the suburbs. Over 1,000 units have been built in the past five years alone.
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Gladstone property values nearly 80 percent down from residential peak: HTW

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Following the buy back of his Brighton trophy home, former Aussie cricketer Shane Warne has sold his other Brighton home, Camden.
Reportedly priced between $5 million and $6 million with JP Dixon's Paul McKenzie and Marcus Gollings, the home has a purchaser's caveat lodged on title documents.
The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-brighton-123354734" target="_blank">four bedroom manor</a> is modelled on a Mediterranean villa and features a home office, designer kitchen and heated swimming pool.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2016/09/15/WARNE%203.jpg" alt="" width="391" height="256">
It's just 100 metre from the foreshore.
The cricket legend will be moving back into <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-brighton-122625206" target="_blank">Melville, the Brighton trophy</a> that he previously shared with ex-wife Simone Callahan.
He sold the home nine years ago in 2007 for $8.8 million and is rumoured to have spent $14 million plus.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2016/09/15/Warne%205.jpg" alt="" width="396" height="282">
The couple had bought the home for $3.6 million in 2000 and renovated extensively. 
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Shane Warne's Brighton merry-go-round continues

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Thornbury, in Melbourne's inner north, ranks as the fastest selling suburb in Victoria, with its townhouses selling in very quick time, according to realestateinvestar.com.au.
Its annual growth has been put at 17.7 percent with the typical townhouse spending just 33 days on market and selling at a $730,000 median price.
<img src="/images/2016/09/15/Screen%20Shot%202016-09-15%20at%2012.09.46%20PM.png" alt="">
Recent townhouse sales include <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-townhouse-vic-thornbury-123153002" target="_blank">a $596,000 offering</a> on Streetle Street (above) and a $612,500 sale on <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-townhouse-vic-thornbury-122981238" target="_blank">Clarendon Street</a> (below). 
<img src="/images/2016/09/15/Screen%20Shot%202016-09-15%20at%2012.10.50%20PM.png" alt="">
The next hottest selling market segment are units in Caulfield North.
Bellfield has the fastest selling houses across Melbourne.
Suburb             Type    Beds    Sell time   Median    Year growth
THORNBURY Townhouse  3        33         $730,000        17.74%
N. CAULFIELD   Unit        3         40         $675,000         0.74%
BELLFIELD        House    3          41         $620,000        12.72%
KENSINGTON    House   2           41         $680,000        12.39%
FLEMINGTON    House   3           41         $835,000          9.29%
HEIDELBERG    House   3           42         $800,000         19.40%
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Thornbury tops the six fastest selling suburbs in Victoria

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Auction numbers are down across every capital city, according to the preliminary results from last weekend kept by CoreLogic.
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Auction volumes down across the capitals: CoreLogic

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Home value for capital cities such as Sydney and Melbourne are increasing, but other capitals not so over the past month, according to CoreLogic's property market update report.
In the last 12 months there has been an overall increase of 8 percent for the five capital cities listed in the chart below.
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Just Sydney and Melbourne capital city home values up in last month: CoreLogic

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JLL has been appointed to negotiate the sale of Arana Hills Plaza on behalf of ISPT.
Arana Hills Plaza is a well-established food, service and convenience based sub-regional shopping centre securely anchored by long term leases to leading national retailers; Coles, Kmart and Aldi, in addition to 23 specialty tenants, 4 kiosks, 2 ATMs and a freestanding Shell Petrol Station, providing a total gross lettable area of 14,355 square metres.
According to JLL’s Head of Retail Investments Simon Rooney demand for convenience-based sub-regional assets such as Arana Hills has been building up due to a lack of investment opportunities throughout 2016.
“Sourcing retail assets within capital city metropolitan areas is challenging at present, particularly for sub-regional centres."
There have been only five sub-regional centres sold within the Brisbane metropolitan area in the last five years, highlighting the limited stock in this asset class.
The centre is on a 5.61 hectare site 10km north-west of the Brisbane CBD, in the established suburb of Arana Hills. 
Its Coles and Kmart leases include provisions that require a high contribution toward both statutory and variable outgoings, providing income protection to future increases in outgoings and together with potential income growth via future percentage rent. 
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Brisbane sub-regional shopping centre, Arana Hills comes to market

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New South Wales continues to grow at an above-trend rate according to the ANZ’s Stateometer, but momentum has eased further and growth may soon be back at trend.
The Stateometer suggests that Victoria’s economy is growing at a slightly above-trend rate. Queensland’s growth has stabilised at a well-below trend rate, fully unwinding the significant improvement in late 2015. Growth in Western Australia remains very weak, with the recent small improvement unwound. 
The Northern Territory is also growing at a below-trend rate, but momentum has improved over the past months.  Tasmania and South Australia are both growing at near-trend rates. Growth in the Australian Capital Territory has accelerated and it is now well above trend.
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<a href="/images/2016/09/14/anz%20trend.png" target="_blank">Regional Overview</a>
New South Wales 
NEW SOUTH WALES GROWTH SLIDES FURTHER AND MAY SOON BE BACK AT TREND
<ul>
<li>The smoothed New South Wales index remains positive, suggesting economic activity is expanding at above trend pace.</li>
<li>However, the index continues to fall from the thirteen-year high reached in 2015, reflecting a broad slowdown in the underlying indicators.</li>
<li>Given the weakness in the Stateometer’s components, we see a risk that the smoothed index falls further in August, where growth may soon be back at trend.</li>
</ul>
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Victoria
VICTORIA CONTINUES TO GROW AT AN ABOVE- TREND PACE
<ul>
<li>The Victorian index suggests that the state’s economy is still expanding at a slightly above-trend rate, with the main driver of growth being the buoyancy of the labour market.</li>
<li>Unless the strength in the labour market translates into higher spending, we think that a significant improvement in the smoothed index is unlikely.</li>
<li>The underlying statistics suggest that the smoothed index will be little changed in August.</li>
</ul>
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Queensland
QUEENSLAND'S ECONOMY REMAINS WEAK
<ul>
<li>Queensland’s economic growth has been steadily decelerating over the past few months and is now well below trend. This means that the index has fully unwound the significant improvement in late 2015.</li>
<li>The fall in the smoothed index reflects a broad- based slowdown in the underlying series, with the weakness in the labour market being the prime driver.</li>
<li>The underlying data suggest to us that there is a risk that growth will stay weak in August.</li>
</ul>
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South Australia SOUTH AUSTRALIA IS NEAR TREND GROWTH
<ul>
<li>The smoothed index for the South Australia’s economy has risen further and is almost at the zero mark signifying trend growth.</li>
<li>The significant improvement in labour market conditions over the recent months has supported the rise in the smoothed index.</li>
<li>Meanwhile, the underlying data suggests to us some upside risks for growth in August.</li>
</ul>
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Western Australia
WESTERN AUSTRALIA’S SMALL GAIN PROVES SHORTLIVED
<ul>
<li>The recent small gain in the smoothed index for Western Australia has been unwound and the Stateometer remains close to the seven-year low reached in January, indicating well below trend pace growth.</li>
<li>The weakness in the underlying data is broadly based.</li>
<li>Based on the underlying data, we see little change in August.</li>
</ul>
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Tasmania
TASMANIA’S GROWTH BROADLY STABILISES AT A NEAR-TREND RATE
<ul>
<li>Tasmania’s economic growth has improved slightly over recent months and has stabilised at a rate that is just below trend.</li>
<li>As the labour market remains weak and slowed further in July, we see a risk that the earlier improvement may be partly unwound.</li>
</ul>
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Northern Territory
THE NORTHERN TERRITORY’S MOMENTUM CONTINUES TO IMPROVE
<ul>
<li>After reaching a five-year low in April, the territory’s smoothed index has improved slightly. This suggests to us that growth in the Northern Territory may have passed a turning point.</li>
<li>The more positive momentum has been driven by improvement in the labour and household sectors.</li>
<li>Reflecting the underlying data, we see little change in August.</li>
</ul>
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ACT
THE ACT'S GROWTH ACCELERATES
<ul>
<li>Economic activity in the Australian Capital Territory is growing at an above-trend rate and accelerated sharply in July, with the smoothed index being at its highest level since February 2011.</li>
<li>The key contributor to the improvement in the index remains the buoyancy in labour market conditions.</li>
<li>The underlying data suggest that the Stateometer will improve further in August.</li>
</ul>
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NSW's above trend economic growth, but signs of weakness: ANZ

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There are limited properties under $500,000 within suburbs close to the city, according to the latest Herron Todd White report.
The valuation firm suggested the market for older units even close to the city is somewhat stagnant as there are larger numbers of newer apartments and townhouses on the market and decreasing numbers of first home buyers that may have previously considered a unit for a first home.
As a result, there are more residents moving further from the CBD to seek housing within an affordable price bracket.
HTW noted there is increasing in-fill development within suburbs such as Happy Valley as well as new development in Woodcroft which is improving the overall appeal of these suburbs.
"Although further from the CBD, these locations are well serviced with local shopping facilities in good proximity.
"These suburbs provide good opportunities for first home buyers seeking detached housing within the $300,000 to $400,000 price bracket.
"These opportunities are few and far between within close proximity of the CBD with the exception of smaller unit style accommodation.
"These areas have fairly consistent levels of demand from buyers and tenants alike."
An example of the price differences between suburbs was shown with a Woodcroft offering, situated 20 kilometres from the Adelaide CBD, while Parkside (situated in the Unley Local Government Area) is situated within three kilometres of the CBD.
A property on <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-sa-woodcroft-122638130" target="_blank">Mawson Circuit, Woodcroft</a> sold in March 2016 for $330,000. It is a circa 1994 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom dwelling with single garage (under the main roof) on a 435 square metre allotment.
In comparison, a circa 1990 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom dwelling (350 square metre allotment) on <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-sa-parkside-121444430" target="_blank">Kenilworth Road, Parkside</a> sold for $705,000.
This reflects a 47% difference in price and provides a good indication of the impact proximity to the CBD has on a property.
HTW advised the median house price in Woodcroft is $365,000 while in Parkside it is $705,000.
In summary, well serviced, quality housing within proximity of the CBD will continue to experience good demand.
Coastal areas such as Henley Beach and Grange will also remain popular given their proximity to the beach and good access to the city and surrounding shopping and café facilities.
The report noted that many busy potential purchasers in the Adelaide market are chasing the elusive work-life balance and are therefore seeking properties where everything is done.
"Lower maintenance properties mean more time to spend with family and friends.
"Popular property types as always are dependent on life stage.
"For example, many young families are still keenly seeking larger family homes with a back yard while those downsizing appreciate the low maintenance lifestyle that a new property on a smaller allotment offers.
"Given the increasing townhouse and apartment construction in the CBD and surrounding suburbs, potential purchasers in Adelaide are gradually moving away from large detached dwellings particularly in less affordable locations.
"Quality housing in suburbs within ten kilometres of the CBD has always been attractive to long-term investors and this is the same for home owners.
"Suburbs that provide proximity to the CBD, good shopping facilities, access to public transport, reserves and local cafes are attractive for investors and home buyers alike."
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Adelaide residential buyers seeking affordable further out: HTW

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Property listings in capital cities such as Sydney and Melbourne are slightly under stock levels last year, according to CoreLogic's market indicator report.
Perth has the biggest increase in property listings with an increase of 17.5 percent over 12 months for overall total listings. For new listings this has increased by 13.1 percent.
Meanwhile the number of properties being listed in Hobart has decreased by 28.7 percent while the number of new properties being listed in Darwin has fallen by 20.3 percent.
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Capital city property listings patchy: CoreLogic

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. 
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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.

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<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. 
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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. 
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"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.

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"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."

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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. 
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"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."

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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.

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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.

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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."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140755 project_image_fid=366267]

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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Staff reporter

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