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It was records galore at property auctions at the last weekend in Melbourne, in a spectacular near-finish to the 2015 auction year.
The 1,648 auctions held on Saturday broke the previous record for a single Saturday (1,626 auctions), set on October 25 last year.
Even for the week, it was a record, with 1,749 auctions held last week – 62 more than in the week ending October 26 last year.
And in a finish to the month that will take some beating, 5,669 auctions were held in November, 259 more than in the previous record month, November 2014, according to the REIV.
REIV CEO Enzo Raimondo said it was a remarkable year for Victoria’s property sector, with more homes going to auction than ever before: 39,380 across the state in the year to December 1, 5% more than the same period last year.
Raimondo said the high number of auctions really is creating strong options for buyers, with 1,560 due this Saturday.
“With the high number of auctions, the clearance rate is starting to moderate which offers buyers excellent opportunities to buy prior to year-­end,” he said.
“Melbourne property buyers really are spoiled for choice, with auctions in more than 350 suburbs in the next fortnight.”
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Melbourne auction record smashed, another big weekend coming: REIV

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First home buyers may be encouraged to come back into the market, helped by tough regulations on investors, falling values and projects targeted towards FHBs. 
Data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics reveals first home buyers numbers are rising, with an 8.5% increase in their applications for home loans in September.
At the same time, the number of investors in the market has dropped. 
The amount first home buyers are borrowing is also on the increase, according to ABS figures which shows the average loan to an FHB was $351,800, up $2500 on the previous month.
However, in original terms, the number of first home buyer commitments as a percentage of total owner occupied housing finance commitments fell to 15.4% in September 2015 from 15.8% in August.
 
For your free Property Observer eBook from RAMS, 12 tips for first-time buyers, covering everything you need to know when it comes to purchasing property, click here.
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ABS suggest signs of first home buyers back in the market

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Coochiemudlo Island - and the 4184 postcode - was identified as one of the most affordable rental suburbs closest to the Brisbane's central business district, according to Australia's first rental affordability index.
The index is a joint project between peak housing advocate National Shelter, Community Sector Banking and SGS Economics &amp; Planning.
Property Observer went looking for properties in the suburb and came up with these listings: 
1. A three-bedroom house at <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/3-eprapah-coochiemudlo-island-qld-4184-10019316" target="_blank">3 Eprapah, COOCHIEMUDLO ISLAND 4184</a> (below) is up for rent for $400 per week. The property last traded for $375,000 in 2014 reflecting a gross rental yield of around 5.5%.
<img src="/images/2015/12/2/c1.jpg" alt="" width="544" height="356">
 
2. Another three-bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/rental-properties/1-oakes-street-coochiemudlo-island/Property-Details-rent-residential-9808943" target="_blank">1 Oakes Street, COOCHIEMUDLO ISLAND 4184</a> (below) has a rental of $370 per week.
<img src="/images/2015/12/2/c2.jpg" alt="" width="509" height="339">
3. A two-bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/rental-properties/11-carefree-street-coochiemudlo-island/Property-Details-rent-residential-9551896" target="_blank">11 Carefree Street, COOCHIEMUDLO ISLAND 4184</a> has a rental of $350 per week.
The median rent for houses in Coochiemudlo Island is $310 per week with a gross yield of 5.2%, according to data on <a href="/news">www.propertyvalue.com.au</a>. Even though the median rent is well below the national average of $395, the yield is higher than the national average. 
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Coochiemudlo Island rental affordability: What landlords are asking from tenants

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A retail property in the Hastings Street tourist strip at Noosa Heads on the Sunshine Coast with clothing retailer Noosa Beach Club as a long-term tenant has fetched $1.95 million at auction.
The 43 square metre site at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-retail-qld-noosa+heads-501731890" target="_blank">7/41 Hastings Street</a> was sold to a local investor for a yield of 7.1%.
The deal was through Ray White Commercial Noosa &amp; Sunshine Coast North’s David Brinkley and Paul Butler. 
The property is returning a net rental of $140,000 per annum and the tenant has a lease until November 2020 with a five-year option, said Brinkley.
Butler said Noosa Beach Club has traded in Hastings Street for the past eight years and recently signed a new five-year lease.
Noosa Beach Club Clothing was established in 1989 at Lorne in Victoria and offers casual wear for women. The operator has 14 stores stretching from coastal Victoria to Noosa. 
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Hastings Street, Noosa retail investment fetches $1.95 million

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The former Hugo’s Pizza Bar and Lounge in Sydney's Potts Point has sold separately for $1.685 million and $2.65 million respectively at auction to local investors.
Located at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-retail-nsw-potts+point-501747730" target="_blank">33 Bayswater Road</a>, the two lots comprised the former Hugo’s Pizza Bar and the former Hugo’s Lounge,
Both sold with vacant possession.
The Pizza Bar, which fetched $1.685 million, was situated on the ground floor and consisted of four strata lots, spread over nearly 159 square metres.
Both lots were sold via public auction on Tuesday on behalf of Properties King Cross Pty Ltd through Robert Lowe of Savills International Sydney. 
The Hugo’s Lounge night club, which sold for $2.65 million, was on the first floor area and consisted of four strata lots spread over nearly 732 square metres, plus two car spaces.
The strong bidding meant both properties exceeded their reserve prices.
“This was an outstanding opportunity for potential owner occupiers, investors, or developers to either reuse the space as a restaurant, night club, or other retail or, commercial uses," said Lowe. 
There is the option to potentially reconfigure the first floor area into commercial or residential use, subject to Council Approval, he said.
“Potts Point has changed considerably over the years with older style buildings being converted into upmarket residential apartments and the perfect positioning of this property would make it an ideal redevelopment project,” Lowe said.
Hugo's Lounge closed blaming the lockout laws that came after alcohol-related violence in Kings Cross.
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Closed Hugo's Potts Point Pizzeria lounge and bar sold through Savills

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A steady stream of private Melbourne investors have snapped up some of Queensland’s prime retail investment properties this year, attracted by the state’s solid growth fundamentals, according to real estate firm MMJ Melbourne.
Director of MMJ Melbourne, Joel Wald, said there was heightened interest from Melbourne’s private investors looking for properties close to Queenland’s CBD areas.
A private Melbourne investor recently bought a property at 66 Dalton Drive, Maroochydore for $6.84 million. The property was designed and constructed for Officeworks as a relocation to an area earmarked as a new CBD.
The sale was through MMJ Melbourne.
Earlier in the year, MMJ Melbourne also sold 130­134 Gympie Road, Strathpine, Queensland to another private Melbourne investor for $11.5 million. Tenants included Officeworks, Flip Out, a medical centre and pharmacy.
Private investors have also snapped up a Bunnings Springfield warehouse for $40 million(above), and another Officeworks at 176 Ipswich Road, Woolloongabba.
“These are significant properties, and Melbourne investors clearly like the confidence that Queensland is proposing for retail investment at the moment. The vote of confidence investors see from big companies, like Officeworks, committing to these areas further reinforces this,” said Wald.
One of the key fundamentals is Queensland’s growing population. It was estimated at 4,722,450 persons in June-end 2014 , a rise of 70,540 from June 2013. This was the third largest population increase of any Australian state or territory over this period after New South Wales and Victoria.
“Obviously, population growth is one of the key fundamentals of retail investing, and at the moment, for Queensland, this is its strongest selling point,” said Wald.
The just released NAB Quarterly Australian Commercial Property Survey Q3 2015 said that while overall sentiment has moderated a little, it still remains at elevated levels. The survey suggests capital growth for the next 1­2 years will be strongest for office property, followed by industrial and retail.
Positive rental returns are also forecast in all sectors in the next 1­2 years, led by big upward revision in expectations for office rents (especially Victoria).
“All in all, we’re seeing very solid commercial property prospects across the board as we close out this year and enter into the next.
"Given this, I expect to continue to see strong demand from my clients in Melbourne to the sunny state as we enter 2016”, said Wald.
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Melbourne investors lured to Queensland by retail investment opportunities: MMJ Melbourne

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Adelaide-based Harmony Property Syndication has paid $10.75 million on a yield of 7.1% for an industrial property at Hallam in Melbourne’s southeast.
The <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-industrial+warehouse-vic-hallam-501611261" target="_blank">1-5 Siddons Way</a> property was sold subject to a long-term lease, expiring in 2026, to national tenant Pakcentre Marketing Services, at a current rental of $765,920 per annum net.
It comprises a 9,574 square metre office and warehouse, with nine metres clearance and canopied loading docks, on a 15,300 square metre allotment.
The sale was through Savills Australia's Chris Jones and Ben Hegerty.
Jones said the price reflected the tightly held market and the lack of stock in the price range.
Hegerty said the property attracted a high level of enquiry from local, interstate and off-shore investors looking for attractive yields, secure lease profiles, prime locations and potential
upside. He said the demand continued to put yields under pressure with many recent sales pushing the 7 percent barrier.
The vendor was a private group of interstate investors.
Established in 2003, Harmony specialises in establishing and managing commercial real estate syndicates on behalf of investors. Harmony currently has 21 separate property investment syndicates with a combined value of more than $260 million of funds under management.
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Adelaide syndicate pays $10.75 million for Hallam property through Savills

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Savvy homeowners in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs are banding together to combine properties, as they look to capitalise on demand for residential development opportunities.
One such example was the sale of adjacent properties <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-land+development-vic-glen+iris-501712345" target="_blank">1455 High Street and 2a Scott Grove,</a> Glen Iris for $6,637,000.
The properties over a combined area of 1,644 square metres were sold to a local developer.
The campaign was handled by CBRE’s Julian White at a rate of $4,000 per square metre.
“We are witnessing an increasing acceptance of apartment living in suburban markets, particularly in prestigious suburbs such as Glen Iris, where medium house prices of $2 million plus inhibit freestanding home ownership," Julian White said.
He added that developer confidence in the pre-sale apartment market was another driver, as apartment sites in the eastern suburbs become harder to secure and planning permits more difficult to obtain.
“To capitalise on developer demand, group selling is becoming increasingly popular, as homeowners look to partner with neighbours to sell their homes for significantly higher returns than can be achieved by selling sites individually,” White said.
“Both the properties in this instance were purchased less than 18 months ago, with the vendors making big margins of around 100% from what they paid.”
Another major factor impacting the eastern suburban market is the arrival of Chinese developers. 
“Many offshore developers are familiar with the eastern suburbs market through family living in Australia. Suburbs such as Glen Iris, Kew and Canterbury are highly regarded by many locally based Chinese families, therefore when an offshore Chinese buyer is looking to acquire a site, these areas are high on their preference list.
“Whilst 1455 High Street &amp; 2a Scott Grove was acquired by a local developer, the majority of bids received were from offshore Asian groups.”
The Glen Iris sale follows recent group selling deals at South Yarra, Cheltenham and Camberwell.
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Glen Iris owners band together for $6.637 million Melbourne sale

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A classically designed Victorian-era freehold building in Melbourne's CBD is going under the CBRE hammer on December 10.
The five-level freestanding building at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-retail-vic-melbourne-501767410" target="_blank">8 Drewery Place</a> formerly housed Sniders and Abrahams cigar manufacturing factory dating back to 1890.
This part of Melbourne saw a concentration of tobacco-oriented firms that established large factories and warehouses in the late Victorian-era and Edwardian period.
The 490 Flinders Street property fetched $4.1 million, about $1 million above the reserve price and for a yield of 2.33%.
About 8 Drewery Place, Rutman said it is one of the only properties of its kind in the street, with most others having already been converted to residential apartments.
“The building has been owned within the same family for a generation and provides a very exciting investment prospect as well as genuine potential to convert, subdivide or redevelop in the future,” Rutman said.
The building is expected to go in the range of $15 million.
The property is located just behind Swanston Street and is wedged within what is fast becoming known as the “Golden Triangle” of city retail – between Melbourne Central, Emporium and the QV Complex.
The name of the lane was changed in 1872 from Brewery to Drewery Lane. According to the City of Melbourne Planning Scheme, it was named after the chemist Thomas Drewery, who was elected a City Councillor for Gipps Ward in 1851.
According to historian Weston Bate, however, it was named after London's Drury Lane.
Today, the ornate building houses a range of retail and office tenants and has seen a dramatic increase in pedestrian activity as the CBD has grown its permanent residential, student and tourist populations. It sits directly adjacent to an entry point into Melbourne Central Shopping Centre which also drives pedestrian flow and retail activity in the laneway.
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Historic Melbourne CBD building listed for sale

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Cromwell Property Group has agreed terms for the sale of an office tower at 100 Waymouth Street in Adelaide for $73 million.
The sale price represents a premium of 17.6% over the book value of $62.1 million, a yield of 6.775% and a capital value of approximately $6,000 per square metre, reflecting continued strong investor demand for commercial office stock in major capital cities.
Cromwell CEO Paul Weightman said the company would continue to look to take advantage of market conditions to improve its $2.1 billion portfolio of direct property assets.
The property has <a href="https://www.cromwell.com.au/property-portfolio/south-australia/289/100-waymouth-street" target="_blank">12,305 square metres of net lettable area</a>, is fully tenanted and has a Weighted Average Lease Expiry (WALE) of 8.1 years.
It comprises a ground floor and 12 upper levels of office accommodation.
The building was commissioned in 1989 as the headquarters for the South Australian Workcover Corporation, which occupied it until June 2012.
The tower has since undergone a full refurbishment, achieving a PCA A-Grade rating. Cromwell acquired it in April 2003.
Origin Energy solely occupies the commercial floors with Beyond Bank occupying the ground floor retail space.
The property is close to public transport, retail, restaurants and cafes.
The sale is expected to settle on December 10.
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Adelaide commercial tower sells for $73 million

ASX-listed developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/stockland">Stockland</a>&nbsp;is continuing its push back into the new apartment market, filing plans for a prominent gateway site between Collingwood and East Melbourne.

The development giant, which moved back into the new apartment space when it announced Stanton Place in Sydney's Rosebery and have since filed plans for a 50-storey tower, are jumping into the off the plan Melbourne market.

They are hoping to create a mixed-use neighbourhood precinct for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/79-81-victoria-parade-collingwood-vic-3066">79-81 Victoria Parade</a>, replacing an existing commercial building with a scheme by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/john-wardle-architects">Wardle</a>&nbsp;for 478 apartments,&nbsp;ground-floor retail, new public open spaces and a publicly accessible pedestrian laneway.

<img alt="First look: Stockland plans new mixed-use neighbourhood precinct for Collingwood gateway site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="72dbbca9-3918-4073-afad-a0c0c35be8e7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/stockland%20pers.png?VersionId=bzMVUKKxvwuNK1m0v_td126Rgct32uk_" />

The design report identifies the public realm as a central driver of the proposal.

"Collingwood has limited access to high-quality parks and public open space, and the proposal delivers valuable new areas for respite, social interaction and fine-grain retail activity."

The development would deliver a diverse mix of housing, including studio, one, two and three-bedroom apartments alongside townhouse-style residences. Two basement levels are proposed beneath the development, providing resident and retail parking as well as extensive bicycle facilities.

Wardle's design draws heavily on Collingwood's industrial character, using articulated building forms, brickwork and robust materials inspired by the suburb's warehouse and manufacturing heritage. The built form has been broken into a series of smaller volumes to better respond to the surrounding streetscape while extensive communal gardens, rooftop amenities and shared resident spaces are integrated throughout the project.

<img alt="First look: Stockland plans new mixed-use neighbourhood precinct for Collingwood gateway site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7b2135ed-65df-4253-ad53-f216f06bd467" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/stockland%20podium.png?VersionId=l1B6Hqn8zs772VxH6L1fDPg0KHshan9v" />

The planning documents describe the existing office building as offering little engagement with the public realm, with the redevelopment intended to create a more permeable and active neighbourhood destination.

"The proposed scheme presents a significant opportunity to deliver a vibrant retail plaza and a local neighbourhood hub serving both existing and future Collingwood residents."

The 79–81 Victoria Parade site occupies a strategic location about 1.5 kilometres east of Melbourne's CBD, at the threshold between Collingwood and East Melbourne. It is well served by tram services along Victoria Parade and sits within walking distance of St Vincent's Hospital, Fitzroy Gardens, the Fitzroy activity centre and a broad range of employment, retail and hospitality destinations.

Joel Robinson

Stockland plans new mixed-use neighbourhood precinct for Collingwood gateway site

An 1880s timber cottage that has survived Kangaroo Point's transformation from riverside suburb to high-density apartment precinct is set to become the centrepiece of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/zephyr">Zephyr Group</a>'s proposed Banksia development.

Rather than see the locally heritage-listed Alpha Cottage as an obstacle to navigate, plans integrate the landmark home into a new 18-storey residential tower, giving one of the suburb's oldest surviving residences a new role as the project's communal hub.

The development application covers a 1,177 sqm amalgamated site at 127-133 Lambert Street and 30 Shafston Avenue, where Zephyr Group plans to deliver 64 apartments above three basement levels. Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/joe-adsett-architects">Joe Adsett Architects</a>, the proposal carefully weaves the retained heritage cottage into a contemporary residential scheme, with the tower elevated above the historic building to preserve its presence within the Lambert Street streetscape.

<img alt="First look: Zephyr Group's Banksia to wrap new Kangaroo Point tower around 1880s Alpha Cottage" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f9dc5bdb-d691-4c60-bf2b-c3ed405a3e75" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Banksia.png?VersionId=Jh4bjlewU.o8HXWt0V4KaFA_lPcF7KWM" />

Named after the native Australian Banksia flower, the project draws inspiration from its distinctive form through curved balconies, sculpted planter boxes and cascading subtropical landscaping that soften the building's profile.

As the design report explains: "The tower's identity is defined by its feature facade, drawing direct inspiration from the Banksia wildflower. The building departs from traditional rigidity through the use of elegant, GRC-moulded planter boxes that appear as if shaped by the breeze."

Plans propose 64 apartments, comprising 32 two-bedroom and 32 three-bedroom residences, across an 18-storey tower. Residents would have access to rooftop amenities including a swimming pool, spa, gym, sauna, private cinema, dining spaces and landscaped recreation areas, while more than half the site is dedicated to planting and open space.

<img alt="First look: Zephyr Group's Banksia to wrap new Kangaroo Point tower around 1880s Alpha Cottage" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="16041b5f-033e-47fa-8fbe-9886e072c1f2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/pool.png?VersionId=kpx5w4EbLx0_TdWfDoD1vrSs0_cZ5Ao1" />

The heritage component is the defining feature of the proposal. Constructed in the early 1880s and occupied from at least 1883, Alpha Cottage is recognised by Brisbane City Council as an important surviving example of Kangaroo Point's nineteenth-century residential development and as a representative transverse-gable timber cottage. Despite extensive redevelopment across the peninsula, the building has retained a high degree of its original form and internal fabric.

As part of the redevelopment, the cottage will be carefully relocated a short distance within its original allotment to facilitate construction before being returned to a prominent position along Lambert Street. Original verandah elements will be dismantled, catalogued and reinstated, while significant internal features, including timber flooring, wall linings, joinery, doors, windows and hardware, will be retained. Later additions, including the enclosed rear verandah, will be removed to better reveal the building's original form.

Once restored, Alpha Cottage will accommodate the building manager's office, mail room and parcel facilities, providing an active everyday use that supports its long-term conservation rather than preserving it as a static display. The heritage strategy also maintains landscaped space around the building, allowing it to remain visually distinct beneath the new tower.

<img alt="First look: Zephyr Group's Banksia to wrap new Kangaroo Point tower around 1880s Alpha Cottage" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="43b027e1-576e-4624-a66c-7cc54ea8b7be" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/banksia%20tower.png?VersionId=2W6E2yfkj2AQlWlLeV986grA5zB9f817" />

The Heritage Impact Assessment concludes that "the proposal secures the ongoing occupation, maintenance and conservation of Alpha Cottage," finding the development would result in "no more than a minor impact on the cultural heritage significance" of the building while ensuring its long-term future.

Joe Adsett Architects have designed the tower to sit above the heritage building rather than overwhelm it, creating a clear visual separation between old and new. The development's flowing balconies, integrated planting and organic façade respond to Brisbane's subtropical climate while complementing the restored cottage below.

Banksia occupies a prominent corner in Kangaroo Point within walking distance of the Kangaroo Point Bridge, Brisbane River, ferry services, QUT, the CBD and the Woolloongabba precinct. The site also benefits from direct access to active transport infrastructure and sits within an area earmarked for continued higher-density residential growth.

Zephyr Group's Banksia to wrap new Kangaroo Point tower around 1880s Alpha Cottage

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]

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.

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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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362240] 
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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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362566] 
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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."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362564] 
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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."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=291195] 
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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.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=13962]

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