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<div>Mortgage Choice Limited has announced a 10.7 percent growth in cash profit, rising to $20.5 million, in FY16.</div>
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<div>They recorded their best ever settlement result, with settlements totalling $12.2 billion, up 6.3 percent on FY15.</div>
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<div>Their loan book was up 4.4 percent on FY15, pushing through the $50 billion milestone, growing to $51.7 billion.</div>
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<div>Mortgage Choice chief executive officer John Flavell said the latest annual financial results were a testament to the ongoing strength of the business.</div>
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<div>“Throughout FY16 the Group performed very well, achieving (or exceeding) all of the business objectives we set for ourselves,” he said.   “Better yet, our impressive business results were recorded against a backdrop of considerable economic and market volatility.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>"Complexity in the market has provided a real opportunity for our business to deliver increased value to our customers through the provision of help, guidance and advice.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>John said he is confident about the future direction of Mortgage Choice and believes FY17 will be a strong year for the Business.</div>
<div>
<div>  “In FY16, we laid the foundations for a very successful future,” he said.   “We set ourselves some aggressive business targets and we met, if not exceeded, all of them.</div>
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<div>"Heading into FY17, we will step up this momentum.</div>
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<div>"We have identified the four key priorities for the business over the next 12 months, and we will deliver on these whilst maintaining a laser-like focus on our 2020 vision.   
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Mortgage Choice delivers 10.7 percent growth in cash profit 

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Estate agent John McGrath said there were signs listings were returning to more normalised levels heading into the busy spring period.
He said it should "take the sting" out of a rampant housing market in Sydney.
"I forecast 6-8 per cent growth in Sydney house prices this year. We've seen the majority of that already so I see very little increase in prices going forward," he told Fairfax Media
"I think there will be more significant growth in prices in the big regional locations like the Central Coast, Wollongong and Newcastle."
 John McGrath estimated Chinese buyers numbers were down by half compared with a year ago, which he said was "disappointing, but not surprising". 
But he said there had been an increase in buyers from other parts of Asia including Vietnam, Indonesia and India.
Estate agent John McGrath announced yesterday he is stepping away from the daily operations of the recently listed McGrath group.
 
For more real estate traps and tips visit <a href="https://realestatetraps.com.au/">realestatetraps.com.au</a>
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John McGrath tips 6 percent price growth for Sydney house prices

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Global Real Estate Investment Manager Cromwell Property Group today reported operating profit boosted by transactional income of $164.5 million for the year to 30 June 2016. 
Cromwell Chief Executive Officer Paul Weightman said Cromwell’s strategy of realising gains and recycling capital, and its internal management model, created value from active management of assets, generated performance fees, allowed it to act opportunistically and enabled it to effectively manage downside risk.
 “FY16 was a year in which we benefitted from a number of one-off transactions,” said Mr. Weightman.
Portfolio valuations increased by $250.3 million during the year net of property improvements, lease costs and incentives.
Net property earnings, on a like for like basis, increased 1.6 percent with increases in rental income being offset by some vacancy in Brisbane and Canberra. Overall tenant quality remains strong with Government and government related entities contributing 46 percent of gross income.
As at 30 June 2016, the portfolio had a Weighted Average Lease Expiry (WALE) of 6.3 years and a vacancy rate of 10.6 percent compared to the national CBD office average of 11.9 percent (JLL).
“Our NSW and VIC assets continue to perform well and we are actively managing the vacancy in our Queensland and Canberra assets”, Mr Weightman said.
Cromwell expects tenant demand, outside of Sydney, to remain weak resulting in subdued growth in like for like property income in FY17 and FY18.
Cromwell was a net seller in FY16 selling $209 million of assets with a net gain of $19.4 million (1.1 cps) including:
Asset Sale ValueDate Disposed
43 Bridge Street, Hurstville, NSW$37 millionJuly 2015
4 Bligh Street, Sydney, NSW$68 millionAugust 2015
Terrace Office Park, Brisbane, QLD$31 millionSeptember 2015
100 Waymouth Street, Adelaide, SA$73 millionDecember 2015
A proportion of the proceeds were used to repay debt with the balance being held as cash.
“Given the heightened competition for assets in all markets, Cromwell’s preference is to recycle capital from disposals to value adding opportunities in its existing portfolio. We are investing $300 million for the future with the redevelopment of Northpoint Tower in North Sydney and the development of the new Department of Social Services national headquarters at Tuggeranong Office Park in ACT,” Mr Weightman said.
“Both projects are on track and will contribute earnings growth and valuation uplifts to the Group in the near future. Demolition works have just finished, and construction will begin next month, at Northpoint, while construction will finish shortly at Tuggeranong,” he added.
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Cromwell Property Group was a net seller in FY16

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The Australian Government has given The University of Sydney and Lendlease a $3 million grant to undertake a collaborative research project to develop multi-storey housing solutions.
The five year industry-led project received the funding to develop and build prototype housing solutions that use high-tech, renewable materials and advanced manufacturing process.
Lendlease Property CEO Kylie Rampa said the demand for affordable and diverse housing is calling for new housing solutions from industry.
“We aim to bring to market an innovative housing system that is design-led, which will help address affordability issues, while developing advanced manufacturing technologies and techniques for future housing construction."
“The products and industry processes stemming from the project aim to create new jobs, skills, technologies and potentially export opportunities for prefabricated housing to meet the sophisticated needs of homebuyers and builders,” said Kylie Rampa. 
University of Sydney associate professor Mathew Aitchison said that the project presents an enormous opportunity to bring innovation to the residential construction market, which has remained largely unchanged in the last 100 years. 
“Despite major advances in other manufacturing sectors, innovation in residential construction is lagging.
"This project seeks to drive efficiency and safety benefits and boost Australia’s competitiveness internationally, where we have seen a notable increase in advanced manufacturing in building over the past decade," he said.
“We will focus on developing multi-storey prototype houses that can be adapted for manufacture and customised project to project.
"At the same time, we are looking at ways to reduce risk and waste, while increasing the efficiency, safety, quality, sustainability and diversity of market-ready housing."
The project will develop a range of solutions for the multi-storey housing market that address increasing urban density and residential market demands.
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Research grant awarded to manufacture multi-storey houses

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For the first time in 60 years a prime beachfront parcel in Coalcliff fetched $2.1 million at weekend auction.
Advertised with potential to build a new home on the 645 sqm block, <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-coalcliff-123069470" target="_blank">34 Paterson Road </a>came with little more than the original foundations of a home.
The property sold through Simon Beaufils and Mattias Samuelsson at Ray White Helensburgh. 
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Oceanfront Coalcliff building block sells at $2.1 million

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What happens when the cameras stop rolling and the director calls cut?
For these seven Block contestant couples the journey into the world of property continued after their room reveals impressed. 
<img src="/images/2016/08/25/1.png" alt="">
Alisa and Lysandra
The Block’s first female team to win the title appeared in The Block Sky High in 2013 and returned again for Fans V Faces in 2014. Following the show the sister duo started a career in interior design, developing their own <a href="https://www.alisaandlysandra.com.au/" target="_blank">interior design company Alisa and Lysandra</a>, partnering with <a href="https://www.fortywinks.com.au/" target="_blank">Forty Winks</a>.
Website: <a href="https://www.alisaandlysandra.com.au/" target="_blank">https://www.alisaandlysandra.com.au/</a>
Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AlisaLysandra" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/AlisaLysandra</a>
Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/alisa_lysandra/" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/alisa_lysandra/</a>
Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/alisa_lysandra" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/alisa_lysandra</a>
Pinterest: <a href="https://au.pinterest.com/alisalysandra/" target="_blank">https://au.pinterest.com/alisalysandra/</a>
 <img src="/images/2016/08/25/2.png" alt="">
Josh and Jenna
Since competing in The Block twice, once in 2011 and again in 2013, Josh and Jenna have renovated and sold their East Albury investment property, partnered with <a href="https://www.beaconlighting.com.au/lighting/josh-and-jenna-range" target="_blank">Beacon</a> to launch a light range and started their own interior design and pre-sale property renovation business, <a href="https://bickerdesign.com.au/" target="_blank">Bicker Design</a>. 
Website: <a href="https://bickerdesign.com.au/" target="_blank">https://bickerdesign.com.au/</a> 
Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/JennaAndJosh/" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/JennaAndJosh/</a> 
Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/joshandjenna/" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/joshandjenna/</a> 
Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/joshjentheblock" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/joshjentheblock</a> 
 <img src="/images/2016/08/25/3.png" alt="">
Dani and Dan
After competing on The Block in 2012 and The Block All Stars, the couple started their own online publication, The Home Journal. They also completed the renovation on a house in Seddon and an apartment in East Melbourne.  Currently the couple star as co-hosts on Channel 10’s lifestyle series Healthy Homes. They also founded the Red Door Project. 
Website: <a href="https://reddoorproject.com.au/" target="_blank">https://reddoorproject.com.au/</a> 
Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DaniAndDan/" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/DaniAndDan/</a> 
Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reddoorproject_/" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/reddoorproject_/</a> 
Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/danianddan" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/danianddan</a> 
Pinterest: <a href="https://au.pinterest.com/basichabitat/" target="_blank">https://au.pinterest.com/basichabitat/</a>
 <img src="/images/2016/08/25/4.png" alt="">
Michael and Carlene
The couple who stared on The Block Glasshouse in 2014 and had a short run on Reno Rumble have launched their online design and construction company, Cedar &amp; Suede. The website focusses on home renovation and offers design consultancy services.
Website: <a href="https://cedarandsuede.com.au/" target="_blank">https://cedarandsuede.com.au/</a> 
Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MichaelAndCarlene" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/MichaelAndCarlene</a> 
Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/cedarandsuede/" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/cedarandsuede/</a> 
Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/Michael_Carlene" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/Michael_Carlene</a> 
Pinterest: <a href="https://au.pinterest.com/carleneduffy/" target="_blank">https://au.pinterest.com/carleneduffy/</a>
 <img src="/images/2016/08/25/5.png" alt="">
Kyal and Kara
Since their appearance on Fans vs Faves and Reno Rumble the couple run a design and construction business, Diverse Construction which assists with styling, custom joinery, product selections and renovations. 
Website: <a href="https://www.diverseconstruct.com/about" target="_blank">https://www.diverseconstruct.com/about</a> 
Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KyalAndKara/" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/KyalAndKara/</a> 
Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/kyalandkara/" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/kyalandkara/</a> 
Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/KyalAndKara" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/KyalAndKara</a>
 <img src="/images/2016/08/25/6.png" alt="">
Karstan and Maxine 
Since staring on The Block Glasshouse the husband and wife team have maintained a career in the property industry. Karstan has returned to the real estate but continues to help wife Maxine manage their homewares business Poppy Smith Design. The couple also run a blog called <a href="https://www.thediscoverytales.com.au/" target="_blank">The Discovery Tales</a>. 
Website: <a href="https://www.thediscoverytales.com.au/" target="_blank">https://www.thediscoverytales.com.au/</a> 
Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/PoppySmithDesign" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/PoppySmithDesign</a> 
Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/karstanandmaxine/" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/karstanandmaxine/</a> 
Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/KarstanMaxine" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/KarstanMaxine</a> 
 <img src="/images/2016/08/25/7.png" alt="">
Bec and George
Since staring in The Block Sky High in 2013 the couple have kept up their work in the interior and development industries. George develops properties while Bec is the resident interior consultant for <a href="https://nostrahomes.com.au/" target="_blank">Nostra Homes</a>. 
Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/BecGeorgeBLOCK/" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/BecGeorgeBLOCK/</a> 
Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/becandgeorge" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/becandgeorge</a> 
Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/becgeorgeblock?lang=en" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/becgeorgeblock?lang=en</a>
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The seven best designers to come out of The Block

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Pelican Slipway in Queensland's Redland Bay is listed for sale.
Established in 1949, the business at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-other-qld-redland+bay-118637371" target="_blank">293 Esplanade</a> sits on 1,326 sqm of waterfront land with an adjoining 720 sqm seabed lease and 20 metre pontoon.
Recent extensive renovations included a 40 seat café and restaurant and the approved 200 berth Weinam Creek Marina. 
The property also has one bedroom and one bathroom. 
LJ Hooker Redland Bay agent Colin Walters has the listing.
The holding last traded for $500,000 in 2006.
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Pelican Slipway in Redland Bay listed

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An 1880's mixed-use site in Pyrmont has been snapped up by Bar Cupola Catering Pty Ltd.
They paid $3.225 million for the <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-pyrmont-122433502" target="_blank">447 sqm Victorian building</a> which offers retail, office and residential uses.
The residential aspect has three bedrooms and three bathrooms, with numerous kitchens and two fireplaces also part of the building.
At the time of the sale the building’s income was around $149,500 per annum.
The building last traded in 2010 for $2.74 million.
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Mixed use Pyrmont premises sold

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Estate agent John McGrath is stepping away from the daily operations of the recently listed McGrath group.
The company has revealed the company’s current joint chief executive Cameron Judson will take Mr McGrath’s role.
It came as McGrath Limited (ASX: MEA) announced a 12 percent revenue increase in their first year as a listed company.
Their revenue increased to $137 million, which was in line with their guidance range of $136 million to $140 million.
The chairman David Mackay, who oversaw the listing last year, will retire from the board and be replaced by Cass O’Connor, who has been on the board for 15 years.
Elizabeth Crouch is the board's latest appointment. Elizabeth is currently Deputy Chancellor of Macquarie University and on the Board of the Macquarie University Hospital and the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences. She chairs the Audit and Risk committees of the City of Sydney and the NSW Government’s Health Infrastructure and is a Non-Executive Director of SGS Economics and Planning. Elizabeth has served as Chair of Railcorp, Non-Executive Director of Chandler Macleod for 4 years and CEO of the Housing Industry Association for 9 years. 
John McGrath, who remains an executive director, said his new job would focus on growing the company’s “brand, growth and innovation”.
“As the company grows rapidly it’s important to focus my attention and efforts on the business that I add most value,” Mr McGrath said.
The McGrath group continued to grow sales, agent numbers, offices and market share in FY16.
Their number of property sales rose 11 percent to 12,232, with the value of property sales seeing a 14 percent increase to $13.2 billion.
Agent numbers increased by 77, rising to 642 across the country, and the number of McGrath offices increased by 20 to 87.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2016/08/24/McGrath%20finances.jpg" target="_blank">Click here to enlarge</a>
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<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/2016/08/24/McGrath%20finances.jpg" alt="" width="437" height="266">
Joint-CEO and founder John McGrath was pleased with the business model strength despite the difficult market.
“Notwithstanding the challenging market environment for the real estate industry, given the low volume of listings and sales in the second half, the strength of our business model saw us deliver a solid result," he said.
“We have successfully grown into new and emerging markets by opening our first four franchise offices in Victoria, and another eight in Queensland.
McGrath Estate Agents were made the exclusive selling agency for the Property NSW's Millers Point sell-off in FY16.
“Property NSW’s appointment of McGrath Estate Agents as the exclusive selling agent for two phases of the Millers Point program was a key milestone for the company.
"Our ability to achieve a 100 percent clearance rate with 58 properties sold for $179.9 million is a testament to the capabilities of our people and the strength of our offering.
John also spoke of the appointment of joint-CEO Cameron Judson, whom he had shared the chief executive position with since July.
“Our team has been further strengthened with the appointment of Cameron Judson as Joint-CEO on 14 July 2016.
"He brings a wealth of professional services industry experience and new perspectives to McGrath.”
Judson spoke on the strategy and outlook, suggesting despite the short term challenging market conditions, the long term fundamentals of the real estate industry remain attractive.
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John McGrath announces 12 percent revenue increase in first year as veteran steps aside from listed company leadership

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Rumoured winner of The Bachelor's last rose, Nikki Gogan has been spotted at her real estate agency office in her WA home town of Northam.
Gogan has been in the Northam Real Estate industry for 12 years and works at Howlett and Lawrence First National Northam.
Her <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/agent/nikki-gogan-91250" target="_blank">profile on realestate.com.au</a> advises she is currently studying to achieve her diploma in real estate and further her career to become a licensee.
Her last sale came at the end of July when she <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-wa-northam-122087366" target="_blank">sold a four bedroom</a>, one bathroom house for $230,000.
She has a number of properties still on her books, her most expensive being a four bedroom, two bathroom <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-wa-northam-122220222" target="_blank">Art Deco era home</a> which is on the market for $595,000.
Fellow Western Australian and The Bachelor Richie Strahan will pick a winner in the coming weeks, and Gogan is tipped to be one of the front runners of the show.
Gogan owns an impressive property portfolio in WA, all focused in Northam.
She shares two properties with her ex-fiance and partner of 12 years Tim Verlinden, and also has one of her own.
The ex-couple spent $540,000 on a four bedroom home in 2007 and then $406,000 on a three bedder in 2013.
Gogan's own purchase was a four bedroom, two bathroom property which she paid $350,000 for in 2008, which has been up for rent for between $390 and $420 a week.
Numerous hints have been dropped that Gogan hasn't been able to keep the fact she is the winner of the show a secret.
The most recent is that ex, Tim has placed a $1000 bet on her to win.
Above image from Instagram.
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Bachelor contestant Nikki Gogan goes back to work at Perth real estate agency

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. 
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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> 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. 
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"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. 
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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. 
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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."

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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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Staff reporter

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