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Moelis has bought 54 apartments in Vision, South Village at Kirrawee.
Development company Payce negotiated a deal with Moelis Australia to sell all the units in the six-storey Flora Street building for $28.5 million.
The investment company's purchase was first reported by the local paper, the St George Leader, as being at "about 30% below peak sale prices".
A followup story by Nine Enertainment suggested the deal came at a discount of between 20-25% based on market prices for units sold in the area last year.
Moelis is seeking investors to finance the purchase of the apartments, which will be rented. 
The Moelis prospectus said rental income from the apartments was expected to grow at a rate of 3.5% a year.
The prospectus said the purchase price was a discount of about 30% on peak prices at South Village and 20% below those achieved in 2019.
"The block includes 29 one-bedroom, 24 two-bedroom and one three-bedroom units," he said.
"The sale price is comparable to selling the units individually on the open market when all selling costs are included.
"These costs include GST, agent commissions, marketing costs, holding costs and buyer incentive offers.
"The apartment block is the only one of seven in the development on the former brick pit site that Payce had to sell on completion.
Co-developer Decor had the remainder, telling the local paper their apartments were "selling very well".
"About 600 have been sold to date, with about 180 to go."
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Moelis buys 54 unsold South Village at Kirrawee apartments 

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Data released by SQM Research has revealed the national residential rental vacancy rate declined marginally in May 2019 to 2.2%, a decrease from 2.3% in April. 
The total number of vacancies Australia-wide is now at 75,093 properties for rent, a decrease of 2,571 over the month but up 5,941 dwellings over the past 12 months.
Most states recorded minor declines ranging from 0.1% to 0.3%.
Darwin and Sydney have the highest vacancy rates in the country, both at 3.3%. 
A 3.0% vacancy rate is what would normally be considered a balanced market.  Darwin declined by 0.3% and Sydney’s decline was 0.1%. 
Perth’s vacancy rate is not far behind at 3.1%, having dropped 0.1%.
Hobart’s vacancy rate decreased from 0.6% to 0.5% in May and continues to record the lowest vacancy rate in the country.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2019/6/19/sqm%201.png" target="_blank">Click here</a> to enlarge: 
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/6/19/sqm%201.png" alt="">
Source: SQM research The month of May recorded a marginal change in rental vacancies, overall. However the standouts for me were the falls in vacancy rates for Brisbane and Perth.
The rental market is decidedly turning in favour for landlords in these two cities. Both cities also recorded fairly strong increases in asking rents for the month.
Indeed, Perth is now recording a 6% rise in asking rents for houses over the past 12 months. 
With no expected material increase in new dwellings, the rental market will continue to tighten from here for the two cities.
Asking Rents
Capital city asking rents decreased by 0.2% for both units and for houses for the week ending 12 June 2019 to record asking rents of $553 per week for houses and $441 per week for units. 
In comparison, over the 12 months, asking rents for houses increased 0.4% but declined 0.7% for units.
Sydney’s asking rent for units and houses have both continued to decline marginally by 0.1% for houses and 0.5% for units to 12 June. 
Over 12 months, the decline has been 3.6% for house rents and 3.8% for units.
Adelaide, Darwin and Hobart were the only states to experience increases in weekly rents for both houses and units.
Adelaide’s house rents increased 1.0% and units by 1.8%, Darwin’s house rents increased by 3.0% (the highest among all states) and units increased by 0.1%. 
Hobart’s house rents increased 1.9% and units increased by 3.7% (the highest among all states).
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2019/6/19/sqm%202.png" target="_blank">Click here</a> to enlarge: 
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/6/19/sqm%202.png" alt=""> 
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National vacancy rate declined in May: SQM research

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The first half of 2019 confronted a unique set of circumstances in that both a state and federal election were held, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
This has provided a further brake on the Sydney property market, particularly in the case of the federal election with property at the forefront of the campaign given the negative gearing and capital gains tax changes proposed, the report noted.
In general, auction rates have improved on the back of vendor expectations meeting the market, the number of property transactions is down compared to 2018 and price declines have been slowing but are still down 4.3% from the start of the year to mid-May, with an 11.2% decline over the past 12 months, according to Corelogic. 
"There have been mixed results across Sydney however with different areas performing better than others," the valuation firm said. 
The tables below show the five best and five worst performing Sydney regions in regard to change in dwelling values.
Median prices in the Blue Mountains and upper northern beaches showed greater resilience over the past 12 months while Epping and southern Sydney appear to have experienced the greatest falls.
Capital city SA2 regions with greatest annual change in dwelling values, 12 months to Apr-19
<table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
SA2 Region 
</td>
<td valign="top">
Capital city region
</td>
<td valign="top">
Change 12 mths to April-19
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Blue Mountains -North
</td>
<td valign="top">
Sydney
</td>
<td valign="top">
1.1%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Wentworth Falls
</td>
<td valign="top">
Sydney
</td>
<td valign="top">
0.1%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Bayview - Elanora Heights 
</td>
<td valign="top">
Sydney
</td>
<td valign="top">
-1.8%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Lawson - Hazelbrook Linden
</td>
<td valign="top">
Sydney
</td>
<td valign="top">
-2.1%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Newport - Bilgla
</td>
<td valign="top">
Sydney
</td>
<td valign="top">
-2.6%
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
A three bedroom house with original features at Katoomba has been sold for $515,000 (pictured below).
The elevated character home at<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-katoomba-131222054" target="_blank"> 34 Freelander Avenue </a>comprises formal lounge room, open plan kitchen, large living area, three bedrooms, sunroom and established garden.
It's close to local schools, park and bus stop.
<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/2019/6/13/katoomba%20.jpg" alt="">
Capital city SA2 regions with largest annual fall in dwelling values, 12 months to Apr-19
<table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
SA2 Region 
</td>
<td valign="top">
Capital city region
</td>
<td valign="top">
Change 12 mths to April-19
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Bass Hill - Georges Hall
</td>
<td valign="top">
Sydney
</td>
<td valign="top">
-19.4%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Epping - North Epping
</td>
<td valign="top">
Sydney
</td>
<td valign="top">
-19.1%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Panania - Milperra - Picnic point
</td>
<td valign="top">
Sydney
</td>
<td valign="top">
-18.9%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Revesby
</td>
<td valign="top">
Sydney
</td>
<td valign="top">
-18.5%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Miranda - Yowie Bay
</td>
<td valign="top">
Sydney
</td>
<td valign="top">
-17.8%
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
A five bedroom house at Bass Hill recently sold for $1.03 million (pictured below).
Set on a 645 square metre block, the family home at<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-bass+hill-131175086" target="_blank"> 41 Broad Street</a> comes with multiple living areas, five bedrooms, timber kitchen and outdoor entertainment area.
Other features include security alarm system, air conditioning, video intercom, and wood fireplace.
<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/2019/6/13/bass%20hill.jpg" alt="">
The report suggest house prices still appear to be falling at a faster rate than units, with the Sydney median house price down 3.1% in the March quarter to $1,027,962.
This compares to the Sydney median unit price which is down 2% in the March quarter to $696,935 (source: Domain).
"A likely interest rate cut, an increased appetite for new loans by major lenders and more certainty after the elections are likely to see market conditions continuing to improve in the second half of the year, with prices beginning to stabilise," the report said. 
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Sydney house prices falling faster than units: HTW residential 

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The coastal region spanning Ballina to Ocean Shores is tracking well, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
"As Sydney and Melbourne markets have significantly cooled off, this market has steadied given the lack of interstate buyers entering the market, which has been the case for the past few years," the valuation firm said. 
Whilst this market has steadied there is no evidence to suggest that it has fallen.
However, longer time periods are being spent on the market in the current conditions.
Price sectors for entry to mid-level buyers seem to be faring well, as new home buyers enter the market and local purchasers trade up.
The report suggests that the prestige market and rural residential market however appear to be slowing with a lack of transactions given interstate money has predominantly exited this price point.
Houses and more importantly houses that include a dual occupancy, appear to be faring better than most given the rental potential of a secondary dwelling and its ability to help service the loan.
As land has rolled out in the past 12 months in these areas, it is apparent that a large percentage of new builds are including a secondary dwelling (dual occupancy) for this reason.
"Some extra special information to share in this particular region is that Byron Bay is faring better than anywhere else in Australia," the valuation firm said. 
"People have continued to migrate from capital cities into these coastal resort towns for work and lifestyle balance."
<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/2019/6/19/byron%20bay.jpg" alt="">
A Byron Bay pavilion style house characterised by clever design elements was sold for $1.22 million in May. 
The designed home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-byron+bay-129861250" target="_blank">11 Oodgeroo Gardens</a> (pictured above) features open plan living with high ceilings, gourmet kitchen, three bedrooms, and entertaining deck.
It's close to Byron town centre, beaches, schools, restaurants and cafes. 
<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/2019/6/19/ballina%20.jpg" alt="">
Another three bedroom villa at Ballina has recently been traded for $610,000. 
Located at<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-villa-nsw-ballina-131217510" target="_blank"> 1/7 Vera Street</a> (pictured above), it comes with open plan living, dining and kitchen, three bedrooms, and outdoor entertaining area.
It is within a kilometre of amenities including shops, sporting fields, North Creek Canal and medical services.
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Ballina and Byron Bay market remains stable: HTW residential 

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The Fair Work Commission handed down a decision to change the Real Estate Award.
The decision affects how commission-only payments for salespeople apply and who they apply to. 
The changes apply in two stages. 
The first will be from the first full pay period on or after 30 April 2019.
The second will be from the first full pay period on or after 30 June 2019.
30 April 2019 changes
<ul>
<li>The phrase “was an active licensed real estate agent” in clause 16.3 has been replaced with “has operated his or her own real estate business”.</li>
<li>A definition of a real estate business has been included to mean “a business involved in the sale of real property or businesses”.</li>
</ul>
30 June 2019 changes
<ul>
<li>Employers will no longer be able to employ part-time employees as commission-only salespeople from the first pay period on or after 30 June. </li>
<li>There will be no ‘grandfathering’ of the clause, which means the payment method for all current part-time commission-only employees will need to change to the hourly rates provided in the award.</li>
</ul>
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Fair Work Commission amends rules for commission-only real estate agent employment

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Following January’s commencement of ground works at Cbus Property’s landmark development in north-west Sydney, The Langston, construction has now commenced the residential high-rise project. 
The project’s progression to the next phase of development followed the demolition at the former Westpac Credit Card Services building, between Langston Place and Chambers Court, Epping. 
Project contractors Hutchinson Builders have commenced drilling of the project’s foundations, prior to construction of the development’s basement levels. 
According to Adrian Pozzo, CEO of Cbus Property, the Epping community can expect to see construction of The Langston’s first tower take just over two years, with completion targeted for the third quarter of 2021.
<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/2019/6/18/The%20Langston_Precinct%20with%20train%20station.jpg" alt="">
The Langston will ultimately feature three towers of 19, 24 and 29 storeys, and will include a mixed-use precinct comprising 1,681 square metres of retail space and 1,921 square metres of communal open space.  
Designed by award-winning architectural firm Architectus with landscaping by world-class landscape architects, Arcadia, The Langston will be situated on the highest land point in Epping, enabling panoramic views to the Sydney CBD and Harbour Bridge to the south-east and the Blue Mountains to the west.
Pedestrian links will feature throughout the site, connecting The Langston with Council’s public library to the east, as well as the revamped Pembroke Street Park and other recreational facilities, revitalising the eastern side of the train station. 
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Construction commences at The Langston development in north-west Sydney 

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A renovated three bedroom home on Phillip Island with 68 acre parcel of land recently sold for $1,835,000.
The rural property was listed by Mike Foenander from OBrien Real Estate - Judith Wright. 
The renovated house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-ventnor-130793614" target="_blank">511 Ventnor Road, Ventnor </a>comprises three bedrooms, two living areas and sun drenched decks with rural and native bush views. 
<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/2019/6/20/ventnor%202.jpg" alt="">
Other features of the property include five main paddocks, town water, three dams, historical kiln, and approved plans for a second dwelling.
It has been leased to two businesses with a renowned local following, Island Primary Produce – a paddock to plate butcher shop and The Store – a café offering light meals, coffee and regional produce.
<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/2019/6/20/ventnor%203.jpg" alt="">
Two long-term leases generate an income of $600,000 per annum. 
The property last sold in 1992 for $325,000. 
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Phillip Island property with farm, butcher shop and cafe sells for $1,835,000

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In Western Sydney the overall trend for dwellings is still weakening after a number of years of positive growth, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
"Negative sentiment in the marketplace and tighter lending requirements have played a part in these falling median prices," the valuation firm said.
"We predict this trend will continue for the rest of the year."
The median house price in Erskine Park are 4% lower than December 2018, according to realestate.com.au data.
Marsden Park had similar figures with a 3.6% drop, whilst Oran Park has seen only a 1% drop in dwelling median values since December 2018.
"Our experience with residential units and off the plan sales has found premiums were paid in stronger markets for the then new product," the report said. 
"As the wider market weakens, we are continuing to see settlement valuations not meeting the off the plan purchase price.
"These valuations require recent resales of similar units to support the value and in many areas the evidence is unable to support the strong off the plan prices."
An example includes a recent resale in Parramatta.
The three-bedroom unit at<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-unit-nsw-parramatta-130373430" target="_blank"> 4803/330 Church Street </a>(pictured below) recently resold for $990,000 representing a 30% drop in value since purchase.
It was for $1,285,000 off the plan in May 2015.
<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/2019/6/13/parramatta%202.jpg" alt="">
"This is not an uncommon occurrence with many units sold for a premium off the plan in a stronger market now unable to meet their initial purchase price up to four years later."
The report noted that there are signs in the marketplace that buyers for new units are harder to attract and a number of incentives are now being offered.
A recent example is the Pelican Estate (pictured below) in Schofields, a 270 unit development selling off the plan in western Sydney.
The developers Bathla are giving away $1.2 million in prizes to lucky purchasers with a $500,000 first prize, $200,000 second prize and a further $500,000 in prizes.
<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/2019/6/13/schofields%20.jpg" alt="">
"Incentives and giveaways such as this are not typically seen during a booming market and are considered a sign of the times."
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Western Sydney median dwelling values in decline: HTW residential 

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Three bidders from a crowd of 100 plus pushed the price of a multi-tenancy retail investment at Malvern to more than $400,000 over the vendor’s reserve at a Teska Carson auction. 
According to selling agents, Teska Carson directors Matthew Feld and Michael Ludski, the RBA’s move to cut interest rates, with another in the offing, has sparked a return of confidence to retail strips. 
Mr Feld said,“there is no doubt that the interest cut and forecasts of more have driven renewed interest in bricks and mortar and particularly for the old favourite strip retail investments.  
“The amount of enquiry we had on this property and the crowd it drew on the day underscored just how much confidence has returned to the market following the election, the retention of negative gearing and capital gains benefits, APRA’s easing of loan requirements, and now the rate cut,’’ Mr Feld said.  
Located within a tightly held retail and commercial precinct, the 150-154 Glenferrie Road property sold on a 4 per cent yield to net market rent. 
The two storey, double-fronted building was sold subject to leases to ANZ Bank (7 years), Sushi Gallery, and JT’s CrossFit Training Studio, returning a combined $311,000 per annum net. 
<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/2019/6/13/150-154%20Glenferrie%20Rd%20sale.jpg" alt="">
The building sits on a 560 square metre site, zoned Commercial 1, with 14 metres frontage to Glenferrie Road and rear access to on-site parking for up to six cars. 
Mr Ludski said the property had presented an opportunity for investors to gain a foothold within the popular strip.  
“Glenferrie Road, Malvern, is a well-known and strongly performing retail precinct, home to many national tenants including Coles, David Jones and Woolworths, and many specialty and boutique retailers.  
“The property offered a great opportunity to break into that highly regarded and tightly-held market in an area which will continue to see strong capital growth on the back of continued residential and commercial development,’’ Mr Ludski concluded.
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100+ crowd drives $6.8 million sale price at retail auction in Malvern

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Two cottages that have been restored for commercial use in Granville are being offered to the market. 
The listing is held by Victor Sheu, Raymond Ahsan and Robert Dowby from CBRE Western Sydney. 
Zoned B4 Mixed Use to suit various commercial usages (STCA), the two cottages at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-land+development-nsw-granville-503201874" target="_blank">70-72 Railway Parade</a> features a total 273 sqm of floor area including 153 sqm Lot 9 and 120 sqm Lot 10. 
<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/2019/6/19/granville%202.jpg" alt="">
The freshly restored cottages come with internal bathroom and full kitchen facility, ducted air-conditioning, as well as data cabling and powerpoint provision. 
It is situated just 200 metres to Granville Station and town centre, offering the opportunity to invest or occupy a prime location.
The expressions of interest campaign ends June 25.  
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Two cottages restored for commercial use offered in Granville

Brisbane developer Red &amp; Co's decision to include dual key apartments in its debut Gold Coast apartment development, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/como-varsity-lakes-22-lake-street-varsity-lakes-qld-4227">COMO Varsity Lakes</a>, is proving to be one of the project's biggest drawcards, with buyers quickly snapping up the flexible residences.

More than half of the project's 36 dual key apartments have already sold, helping drive COMO beyond the 50 per cent sold mark within the first month of launch.

The strong response highlights growing demand for apartment designs that can adapt to changing lifestyles, with buyers increasingly looking for homes that accommodate multi-generational living, provide rental income opportunities or simply offer greater flexibility over time.

Located on the shores of Lake Orr, COMO will deliver 156 apartments across 16 levels, with the dual-key residences forming a limited release within the broader development.

Each combines a primary two-bedroom apartment with a fully self-contained studio on a single title, connected by a shared foyer and lockable internal door. The design allows owners to house ageing parents, adult children or guests while maintaining privacy, or lease the secondary residence to generate additional income.

Just 17 of the original 36 dual key apartments remain available.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135546 project_image_fid=367096]

The innovative configuration combines two fully self-contained residences on a single title, typically comprising a primary two-bedroom apartment alongside a separate studio residence, connected via a shared foyer and lockable internal door.&nbsp;

The model is proving particularly attractive to owner occupiers navigating changing family dynamics and the realities of the current housing crisis.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135546 project_image_fid=363511]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/npa">NPA</a>&nbsp;CEO Andrew Erwin said dual key living was resonating strongly with modern buyers because it delivered both financial flexibility and practical lifestyle benefits.&nbsp;

“The housing crisis and rising cost of living are fundamentally changing how Australians think about home ownership,” Erwin said.&nbsp;

“Dual key apartments provide a genuine solution for families who want to stay connected while maintaining independence. Parents can help adult children save for a future home, ageing parents can remain nearby without moving into aged care, and owners still retain privacy and flexibility.

“Importantly, buyers are also recognising the financial advantages. It creates the opportunity to generate additional income from part of the home without the holding costs associated with owning a separate investment property.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135546 project_image_fid=363509]

Unlike traditional dual occupancy arrangements, the residences operate under a single title, meaning owners only incur one set of body corporate fees, council rates and holding costs.&nbsp;

The secondary residence can also evolve over time - functioning as guest accommodation, a home office, creative studio or private retreat before later becoming an income-producing asset.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/red-co">Red &amp; Co</a>&nbsp;Director and Co-Founder David Laverty said the strong early sales reflected growing buyer urgency and changing priorities within the market.&nbsp;

“Securing more than half of COMO’s residences within such a short timeframe is an outstanding result and a clear endorsement of both the design and location,” Laverty said.&nbsp;

“Buyers are responding to the combination of location, connectivity and amenity, but ultimately it’s value relative to other East Coast markets that is driving enquiry.”&nbsp;

“We’re also seeing strong interest from owner occupiers looking for homes that can adapt with them over time. Flexibility has become one of the most important considerations for buyers in today’s market.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135546 project_image_fid=363515]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bda-architecture">BDA Architecture</a>, COMO features a mix of one-, two- and three-bedroom residences with 2.7-metre ceilings and larger-format floorplans aimed at owner occupiers, downsizers and lifestyle-focused buyers.&nbsp;

The development will feature an extensive rooftop recreation and wellness offering including a 25-metre lap pool, sundeck, barbecue and dining areas, gym, sauna, plunge baths, landscaped gardens, wellness spaces and rooftop pickleball and paddleball courts.

The remaining dual key apartments range from 137 sqm to 167 sqm and include generous three-bedroom layouts with separate self-contained studio accommodation and dual parking.&nbsp;

Erwin said the dual key concept represented a broader shift in how Australians would live in the future.

“People want homes that can evolve with their lives,” he said.&nbsp;

“A dual key apartment can suit a family today, support an ageing parent tomorrow, and potentially generate income later on. That adaptability is becoming incredibly valuable in the current environment.”

Prices currently range from $2,115,750 to $2,583,000.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135546]

Joel Robinson

Inter-generational living drives demand for COMO’s dual key apartments as housing pressures reshape buyer priorities 

Builder-developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/ceerose">Ceerose</a> has doubled down on its Leichhardt ambitions, lodging its second State Significant Development Application (SSDA) in the suburb in the last six months.

Their newest proposal seeks to transform a former industrial precinct into a new residential community centred around the adaptive reuse of one of the site's heritage warehouse buildings.

The new project, on a 6,930 sqm block at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/40-76-william-street-leichhardt-nsw-2040">40–76 William Street</a>, will bring more than 200 apartments to a suburb that has seen little to no new supply in recent years. It follows Ceerose's late 2025 SSDA for a mixed-use apartment project on nearby Parramatta Road, signalling the developer's growing investment in Sydney's Inner West.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a>, the redevelopment would involve the demolition of four existing industrial buildings while retaining and adaptively reusing the site's most significant warehouse. The retained structure would anchor a new residential precinct comprising five interconnected buildings arranged around a large central landscaped courtyard, with heights stepping from five storeys along the surrounding residential streets to 11 storeys at the William Street corner.

<img alt="First look: Ceerose returns to Leichhardt with 203-apartment adaptive reuse proposal at former warehouse site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7258c54c-8167-479e-8361-2d5fca9915b4" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Appendix%2010B%20-%20CGI%20-%20View%202.jpg?VersionId=S9DQfxu_jpcB5LrAEYFUbyMzg5odW6i5" />

According to the Architecture Design Report by Woods Bagot, the proposal "seeks to create a residential village centred around a generous green heart while celebrating the site's industrial heritage through the adaptive reuse of the existing warehouse building."

The development would comprise 203 apartments, with 188 proposed as build-to-sell residences, alongside 15 affordable housing apartments.

Rather than treating the retained warehouse as a standalone heritage object, Woods Bagot has sought to weave the site's industrial history throughout the masterplan. The proposal retains the north and west facades of the landmark corner warehouse, while new buildings reinterpret the site's brick-and-steel industrial language through their material palette and architectural expression.

<img alt="First look: Ceerose returns to Leichhardt with 203-apartment adaptive reuse proposal at former warehouse site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9e8c64c2-881b-49e1-8c90-6b6acaaa45b6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Appendix%2010C%20-%20CGI%20-%20View%203.jpg?VersionId=Qm8_8H_Xrg_sc4Mdjc59vlAcKF_5wRTb" />

The design is organised around what Woods Bagot describes as a "green heart", a landscaped communal open space that reinstates the leafy character removed when the site became an industrial storage facility. A new pedestrian laneway running through the site would improve permeability between William, North and Francis streets, linking residents through landscaped public spaces while activating the ground plane.

Residents would have access to communal gardens, rooftop open space and shared recreation areas distributed throughout the development. Sustainability has also been prioritised, with the project targeting an average 7.9-star NatHERS rating. Proposed initiatives include rooftop solar generation, rainwater harvesting, passive solar design, naturally ventilated lobbies, extensive cross-ventilation and the reuse of existing building fabric to reduce embodied carbon.

The adaptive reuse strategy became a defining feature of the application after heritage investigations found only one of the site's industrial buildings could feasibly be retained. The Heritage Impact Statement concludes that preserving the key warehouse façades while referencing the site's industrial character throughout the new development provides an appropriate balance between renewal and conservation.

<img alt="First look: Ceerose returns to Leichhardt with 203-apartment adaptive reuse proposal at former warehouse site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="efffafdb-594f-4e2b-a067-921fd51c05e1" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Appendix%2010D%20-%20CGI%20-%20View%204.jpg?VersionId=DPmE4.k16YRt0i27hEZVtJAffarpvUfx" />

"Retention and adaptation of the site buildings has been explored but found not to be feasible except for the tallest building, whose street facades will be retained," the heritage report states.

"The proposed building will interpret the brick and steel character of the subject site, including reuse of some components and construction of a large 'sawtooth' structure in the proposed open space."

<img alt="First look: Ceerose returns to Leichhardt with 203-apartment adaptive reuse proposal at former warehouse site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3bfef2b5-83f5-40cd-9cab-767092f34266" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Appendix%2010E%20-%20CGI%20-%20View%205.jpg?VersionId=7asb3i_ql4ybbuJOUb5UHBEIy0Q9t.DF" />

The William Street site is located around 300 metres from Leichhardt North Light Rail station and a short walk to Norton Street's retail, dining and hospitality precinct. The surrounding area has increasingly become a focus for urban renewal given its proximity to public transport and the Parramatta Road corridor.

Ceerose, founded by Edward Doueihi in 1998, has become one of Sydney's more active apartment developers, with completed projects including The Alex Collective in Alexandria, Abbie's Lane in Annandale, and the award-winning Munro House in Elizabeth Bay. They are currently delivering Belgravia, 17 luxury apartments in Potts Point.

First look: Ceerose doubles down in Leichhardt with adaptive reuse of former warehouse site

Melbourne developer Spacious Group has completed Voyage Altona, one of the closest new apartment developments to Altona Beach.

Off the plan purchasers have started moving into the 49-apartment project on Pier Street, with the remaining move-in-ready one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments starting from just over $500,000.

Display apartments have now been fitted out, allowing prospective buyers to inspect the completed residences by appointment.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112195 project_image_fid=372638]

The completed apartments feature open-plan living and dining areas which extend onto private balconies and terraces, while full-height glazing maximises natural light throughout the interiors.&nbsp;

Hybrid timber-look flooring, stone benchtops, Miele appliances, porcelain-tiled bathrooms and generous storage feature throughout the building which also features landscaped communal areas, expansive shared terraces, lift access and secure on-grade parking.

Drawing inspiration from its bayside setting, Voyage adopts a restrained palette of warm neutral tones and textured finishes. Many of the apartments take advantage of views across Port Phillip Bay, while the indoor-outdoor living spaces have been designed to make the most of the coastal outlook.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112195 project_image_fid=3286]

Voyage was developed to address what Spacious Group identified as an undersupply of higher-quality apartment product in Altona, with a focus on owner-occupiers looking to remain within the bayside community.

"Voyage responds to very strong local buyer demand for quality, owner-occupier-focused product," says Barry Plant Projects Director Jarrod Farey, who has handled sales since the project's launch.

"The project delivers an elevated lifestyle proposition, with its design and quality of finish far exceeding anything previously produced in the area, as well as its proximity to Pier Street Village and the beach."

The majority of purchasers have been local downsizers and owner-occupiers looking to stay within the Altona community but who previously had limited opportunities to buy a brand-new apartment.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112195]

Spacious Group completes Voyage Altona in Altona's beachside precinct

Homecorp has secured approval for a $360 million apartment development at Budds Beach, paving the way for one of the Gold Coast's most amenity-rich residential projects to launch later this year.

Gold Coast City Council has approved Lýon Residences, a 32-level tower that will deliver 178 two and three-bedroom apartments across a prominent corner site at 8-10 Acacia Avenue and 25-27 Oak Avenue.

The approval comes as developers continue to invest in premium lifestyle-driven apartment projects on the Gold Coast, where owner occupiers are increasingly prioritising amenity as much as apartment size and location.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/l-on-residences-25-27-oak-avenue-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Lýon Residences</a> has been designed around a resort-style wellness offering, headlined by a Moroccan-inspired spa precinct featuring treatment rooms, a Nordic sauna and steam room, hot and cold plunge pools, a soaking pool and a residents-only juice bar.

The rooftop will include a heated infinity pool and spa, residents' lounge with private kitchen and bar, gymnasium, yoga and Pilates studio, outdoor entertaining areas and barbecue facilities overlooking the Surfers Paradise skyline.

<img alt="Lyon" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2d3e29af-8793-486e-a684-52cef862241f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-15%20at%204.32.26%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=ayG2zpLf3SS6Zy8XmKDcQods4kVWb0gm" />

Homecorp Founder and CEO Ron Bakir said Budds Beach provided the ideal location for the company's latest luxury apartment project.

"Budds Beach represents one of the most unique and sought-after pockets of the Gold Coast, and Lýon Residences has been designed to reflect that sense of rarity and refinement," Bakir said.

The project arrives as wellness continues to become a defining feature of new residential developments both in Australia and internationally.

The latest Global Wellness Institute figures show wellness real estate remains the fastest-growing segment of the global wellness economy and is forecast to exceed $1.8 trillion by 2030. Australia continues to rank among the world's 15 largest wellness real estate markets, with developers increasingly integrating health, recreation and community facilities into apartment projects.

Queensland is also experiencing strong population growth, with the Gold Coast continuing to outperform many other Australian cities as demand for new housing remains elevated ahead of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Bakir said the project had been designed to respond to that shift in buyer expectations.

"Strong population growth and sustained demand across the Gold Coast continue to highlight the need for well-designed new housing supply. Lýon Residences responds directly to this demand while setting a new benchmark for residential living," he said.

Each apartment has been designed to maximise views across the coastline, the Nerang River and the Gold Coast hinterland.

Located just minutes from Surfers Paradise beach and the Broadwater, the development also offers easy access to the light rail network, Broadbeach and Burleigh Heads.

Early site works are underway, with construction expected to commence later this year.

Homecorp approved for Budds Beach apartment tower, Lýon Residences

New apartment developments with uninterrupted, north-facing views over Perth's Swan River are exceptionally rare.

Recognising just how limited those opportunities are, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/edge-visionary-living">Edge Visionary Living</a>, one of Perth's most respected builder-developers, targeted <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/applecross-wa-6153">Applecross</a>, assembling an unrepeatable 6,342 sqm riverfront site on the corner of Moreau Mews and Canning Beach Road to create one of Perth's only new north-facing apartment developments directly overlooking the Swan River.

Today, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/riviere-residences-applecross-59-canning-beach-road-applecross-wa-6153">Rivière Residences</a> offers buyers a unique opportunity to choose between completed residences ready to move into now and off-the-plan homes in the final stage, Rivière West.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=28384 project_image_fid=3823]

Across the completed East and Central buildings, residents are already enjoying the development's luxury amenity, while two of the precinct's hospitality venues are now open.

The completed component of the development gives buyers the advantage of experiencing the finished product firsthand, including its uninterrupted river views, while still having the opportunity to secure a residence in the final stage.

"People are wowed by the view and the quality of the apartments,"&nbsp;Edge Visionary Living Sales Executive, Holly McSweeney, says.

"They're looking for the convenience of lock-and-leave living, but they're not looking to downsize on quality."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=28384 project_image_fid=3826]

The rarity of the development hasn't been lost on prospective buyers, McSweeney says.

For McSweeney, it all comes back to a location that is becoming increasingly difficult to replicate.

"Location, location, location," she says. "We are nestled right on the front of the Swan River. You can never get built out, so wherever you are in Rivière Residences, you've got views of the river forever."

The unique waterfront position has resonated particularly strongly with local downsizers. McSweeney says many buyers are long-time Applecross residents looking to transition from large family homes into a luxury apartment without sacrificing space, quality or the lifestyle they've enjoyed for decades.

<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/N_FowNW0wu8?si=vb25XFq1wZ-iufAW" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

A major focus for Edge in recent years has been resident amenity. Across its apartment portfolio, from beachfront developments in Scarborough to luxury towers in South Perth, the developer has increasingly invested in the spaces beyond the apartment itself.

The strategy has largely been shaped by downsizer demand. Many buyers are moving from large family homes with swimming pools and established gardens. While they're looking to leave the maintenance behind, they don't want to compromise on lifestyle.

At Rivière, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hillam-architects">Hillam Architects</a> designed the resident facilities as an extension of each apartment. A 25-metre heated swimming pool takes advantage of the north-facing river outlook, complemented by a large gym, sauna and steam rooms, private dining spaces, residents' lounges, a cinema, games room, and dedicated wine and whisky rooms.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=28384 project_image_fid=372542]

The waterfront location has also proved to be a major drawcard. Residents are within walking distance of the Raffles Hotel, South of Perth Yacht Club, the Heathcote Cultural Precinct and the cafés, restaurants and boutiques along Ardross Street.

Beyond the location and amenity, McSweeney says many buyers take confidence from Edge's fully integrated development model.

Having delivered apartments across Perth for decades, Edge now designs, develops and constructs its projects in-house, giving the company greater control over quality, delivery and the finished product.

"What I love is when people walk through their apartment for the first time and say, 'This is better than what we imagined,'" McSweeney says. "We hear that all the time."

Completed apartments in the East and Central buildings are now available to inspect by appointment, while Rivière West, the final stage of the precinct, is expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=28384]

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