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Palm Cottage, a landmark Noosa home, has been listed for $1.425 million. 
The three-bedroom, three-structured property at <a id="LPlnk273695" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-sunrise+beach-130123114" target="_blank" data-auth="NotApplicable">97 Orient Drive, Sunrise Beach</a> is a part of Noosa’s history. 
It was 38 years ago, its creators, both keen surfers, restaurateurs and entrepreneurs, set the foundations for what was to become an avant-garde home on a site where they could be completely at ease and unwind in a natural habitat. 
<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/2019/1/14/sunrise%20beach%202.jpg" alt=""> The home comes with three bedrooms, dining area with fireplace, kitchen, and expansive deck linking the studio to the main building. 
Using sustainable materials and upcycled second-hand and custom-made goods, the home grew in a succession of spaces linked by sun decks and pathways.
<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/2019/1/14/sunrise%20beach%203.jpg" alt="">
Over the years, the owners have created picturesque gardens with a strong connection with the house. 
It is situated just less than 10 minute walk along a sandy track to surf beach, and a few minutes drive to schools, shops and medical facilities. 
Ray White Noosa’s Deni Castle is marketing the home.
The suburb's median house price sits at <a href="/developments/sunrise-beach-qld-4567">$820,000</a>, according to CoreLogic. 
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Noosa's historic Palm Cottage listed for sale

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A four bedroom house at Coogee, a southern coastal suburb of Perth, has been sold for $649,000 by mortgagees.
It went back some $70,000 from its 2013 sale when it fetched $720,000.
Team Trolio from Harcourts Realty Plus secured the sale of the home which initially sought $740,000 when listed with Purplebricks over a year ago.
The home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-wa-coogee-129072102" target="_blank">2 Carrello Circuit</a> was built in 1995 and has four bedrooms, multiple living areas and an entertainer's patio, which is advised to be big enough with for a pool. 
With bus links, it is within only a couple of kilometres from Port Coogee Marina, cafes and shops. 
It was last sold for $720,000 in 2013.
The suburb's median house price sits at <a href="/developments/coogee-wa-6166">$800,000</a>, according to CoreLogic, who calculate its annual change in median price over the past 10 years as -0.2%.
Its median days on market currently sits at 73 days.
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Loss taken on Coogee, WA mortgagee sale

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One of the last beach house precincts remaining on the Gold Coast is enjoying a surge in sales activities with buyers on the northern Gold Coast at Paradise Point.
Sovereign Shores on the northern tip of Paradise Point has enjoyed more than $30 million in sales as buyers look for waterfront land in an enclave with 240-degree water views overlooking The Broadwater.
Only a handful of blocks in the first stage of 39 remain for sale.
The offering, being marketed by The Ray White Runaway Bay Group on behalf of well-known Brisbane Developer Metacap, is being developed on the location of Little Beach, a popular beach peninsula precinct opposite exclusive Sovereign Islands.
Ray White’s Ali Mian said local, interstate and international buyers looking to develop luxurious modern beach homes had shown keen interest in the first stage of the development, which only has a total of 60 lots and is being released in a limited two stages.
<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/2019/1/10/038_Open2view_ID489019-1_Salacia_Drive.jpg" alt="">
“The response has been very strong, particularly from local buyers who are captivated by the stunning waterside location,” said Mr Mian.
“The demand we have already experienced, coupled with the settlement of some of the early purchases, has allowed the developer to bring his attention to releasing stage two imminently.
“Land of this calibre within reach of lifestyle amenities is quite rare at Paradise Point and basically once the 60 lots are sold there will be no waterfront land remaining in what has emerged as one of the city’s most exclusive suburbs.
“We’ve even had a buyer from New Zealand secure a lot sight unseen after searching online for opportunities on the Gold Coast.”
The Ray White Runaway Bay Group general manager Ian Spurle credits the success of the Sovereign Shores land release to the flexibility that residential sites offer buyers.
<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/2019/1/10/003_Open2view_ID489019-1_Salacia_Drive.jpg" alt="">
“The lots are quite unique in terms of what buyers are able to build on them and this has been very appealing to our buyers,” said Mr Spurle.
“You can occupy up to 60 per cent site coverage as of right, but there’s also a zero-lot provision that allows for more flexibility in home designs and better use of the site.
“You can also go to three levels and have a rooftop garden, as well as a full basement level.
“Under this scenario, you can actually strata-title each of these levels to create three dwellings, which is quite unique.”
Sovereign Shores residents have access to marina berths that offer a bridge-free passage to the Pacific Ocean.
Resident facilities include a recreation centre, fully equipped gymnasium and the choice of three swimming pools.
Local amenities include a restaurant, bar and coffee shop, while the popular Paradise Point restaurant and shopping strip is just a short stroll away.
Sovereign Shores lots are priced from $589,000 and range in size from 400sqm to 651sqm.
Metacap was incorporated in 2005 by seasoned developer Alex Jimenez, and has since completed more than 1000 town houses, high-rise apartments, residential subdivisions and commercial developments in Gold Coast, Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne. 
Metcap, which has a $155 million development pipeline, has successfully delivered a diverse array of developments through various economic environments, making it highly respected in the industry. 
The Ray White Runaway Bay Group has offices at Sovereign Island, Paradise Point, Runaway Bay and Pacific Pines.
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Buyers snap up Paradise Point land offering at Sovereign Shores

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The second half of 2018 saw the major risks associated with the residential property market increase significantly and this will continue well into 2019 and beyond, according to RiskWise Property Research CEO Doron Peleg.
He also stated, tighter lending standards, the results of the Royal Commission, the fear of the potential changes to negative gearing and capital gains tax, political uncertainty and unit oversupply, in conjunction with a sharp drop in dwelling commencements, will shape the entire landscape of residential property into 2020.
“And this means it is more important than ever to identify the red flags when it comes to buying property,” Mr Peleg said.
“There’s every chance the ALP will win this year’s Federal election and implement changes to negative gearing and capital gains tax. In fact, we have already seen an impact on the market due to uncertainty and fear about these changes, with price reductions accelerating following the Liberal leadership spill of Malcom Turnbull by Scott Morrison. In addition, auction clearance rates have dropped below 50 per cent in both Sydney and Melbourne.
“The risk of price reductions are likely to remain very high at least until the second half of 2020. This adds uncertainty and impacts buyer sentiment,” Mr Peleg stated.
Riskwise state that they have identified the red flags for high-risk dwellings that property investors should avoid,
These include oversupply, poor economic growth, as seen in Perth and South Australia, high unit-to-house ratios, high vacancy rates and units unsuitable for families.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/subscribe" target="_blank"><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/2019/1/Subscriber%20strip%20ad.jpg" alt=""></a>
Mr Peleg said there was a "high possibility" the value of an off-the-plan property may decrease between the original contract date and settlement.
Regions most as risk of this are Brisbane City, Fortitude Valley and South Brisbane which have all been named in the Top 10 of the RiskWise 2018 list of the 100 Worst Off-The-Plan Suburbs in Australia.
So have Zetland and Epping in Sydney and Southbank in Melbourne, where oversupply of units is a huge issue.
RiskWise research shows high-rise buildings generally carry higher risk than small unit blocks from both a capital growth and cashflow perspective, although Mr Peleg said this risk depended on the specific suburb and other factors such as strata payment and specific property features, all of which should be assessed on a case-by-case basis.
When it comes to purchasing property and avoiding the potential risks it's critical to perform independent research and avoid taking advice from so-called “property professionals or wealth creators” who were not paid for their services.
“No one works for free in the housing industry. If you are not paying, you are not the client, and someone else is, for example a property developer, and that means there is an agenda to get you to buy whether it is for your benefit or not. In other words, you will pay in the long run,” he concluded.
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Buyer beware: the red flags for high-risk properties in the Australian housing downturn

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Melbourne businessman Giuseppe “Tony” Giannarell has his Main Beach, Gold Coast sub-penthouse listed for auction.
He’s also throwing in a marina berth lease.
The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-qld-main+beach-130162006" target="_blank">23rd level Waratah apartment</a> has been owned by Giannarelli family since they paid $1.6 million in 2005.
<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/2019/1/14/MAIN3.jpg" alt="">
Robert Graham, of Ray White Prestige, said the marina berth lease would appeal to local buyers moving from large waterfront homes.
It’s a five-year marine berth lease at the Southport Yacht Club.
<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/2019/1/14/MAIN2.jpg" alt="">
The property is set for auction on January 28 at Ray White Surfers Paradise Group’s mega auction line-up The Event.
 
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Giuseppe “Tony” Giannarell lists Main Beach sub-penthouse in the 2019 Event auction

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A mortgagee listing at Port Neill in South Australia has seen its priced slashed from prior listings after failing to sell in 2016, 2017 and 2018.
The 1980s home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-sa-port+neill-130223182" target="_blank">10 Carrow Terrace</a> in Port Neill, on the eastern side of the Eyre Peninsula, is now for sale at $219,000.
The four bed, one bathroom home initially sought $299,000 in 2016.
It was re-listed at $259,000 in 2017.
The median days on market for Port Neill is 359 days, according to CoreLogic data.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/subscribe" target="_blank"><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/2019/1/Subscriber%20strip%20ad.jpg" alt=""></a>
Set on 838 sqm the home is located a short walk from the foreshore and beaches.
The listing by Luke Duncan at Kemp Real Estate indicates there is room for the boat, camper van and secure parking on the property.
The median sale price for a home in <a href="/developments/port-neill-sa-5604">Port Neill</a> is $283,000, according to CoreLogic data, which puts the annual change in median price over the past decade at 1.2%.
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Asking price drops to shift Port Neill mortgagee home stuck on the market

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Home loan lender, Virgin Money has increased variable interest rates for all existing principal and interest (P&amp;I) and interest only (IO) home loans by 20 basis points.
Experts predict this trend will continue in 2019 across many lenders.
The group said the majority of standard variable rates for new home loan applications will remain unchanged, with only a few set to increase.
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Virgin Money has also announced it is reducing fixed rates by between 5bps and 10bps for the following products:
<ul>
<li>Two and three year fixed rates for owner occupier principal and interest loans over $300,000 with an LVR of 90% and under; and</li>
<li>Two and three year fixed rates for investment interest only loans with an LVR of 90% and under.</li>
</ul>
Virgin Money’s general manager, lending, cards &amp; deposits, Johnny Lockwood, said, “We have absorbed higher funding costs for the last twelve months in order to delay the impact for our home loan customers. Unfortunately, funding costs remain high and are likely to remain elevated into the foreseeable future."
The interest rate changes are effective Friday, 11 January 2019.
RateCity.com.au research director Sally Tindall said Virgin Money’s decision to pass these costs onto customers was becoming a trend.
“Virgin was a notable exception in the out-of-cycle rate hikes that happened mid last year.
“As the cost of funding continues to plague Australian lenders, today’s move is likely to be the next step towards a landslide of rate hikes.
“Virgin has still managed to keep their foot in the low rate market by only hiking their lowest rate product by 0.05 per cent for new customers.
“That way they can still offer a rate 3.69 per cent for people looking to bring new business in the door,” she said.
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Lender Virgin Money announces 20 bps home loan rate hikes

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Ultiqa Hotels &amp; Resorts has purchased the management rights for the upcoming Little Projects 256-apartment project, Signature Broadbeach through Resort Brokers.
Over 20 local and international groups sought the opportunity to secure the 25-year term agreement covering Signature’s maintenance, letting and real estate rights.
On listing The Urban Developer noted Little Projects expected to see offers over $15 million.
“The management rights to quality buildings of scale are increasingly hard to come by on the Gold Coast, particularly in Broadbeach, where both tourism and real estate markets remain buoyant,” said Little Projects director, Leighton Pyke.
Positioned in the heart of Broadbeach and minutes from patrolled beaches, cafes, public transport, the Star Casino and Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, Signature Broadbeach was the top selling project for the Gold Coast in Q1 and Q2 2018.
On listing last July, Little Projects had reported more than 100 of the luxury units already under contract.
<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/2019/1/9/BroadBeach%202.jpg" alt="">
Designed by Rothelowman architects in collaboration with SJB Interiors, Signature Broadbeach will feature 49 one-bedroom, 192 two-bedroom and 11 three-bedroom apartments, all with Miele appliances and stone benchtops.
Each of the 256 residences have access to a 50-metre infinity edge pool, a gymnasium, onsite cafe and private cinema.
With the addition of Signature, ULTIQA’s current portfolio is valued at $60 million.
“Signature Broadbeach is a significant addition to our portfolio and represents an exceptional standard of well-appointed apartments in excellent locations,” said ULTIQA’s Chief Executive Officer, Mark Henry.
Signature Broadbeach will commence construction in early 2019 and is expected to be completed within 2 years.
Residences at Signature are for sale starting at $495,000 for one-bedroom, $619,000 for two-bedroom and $1.325 million for three-bedroom dwellings.
Last July it had prices starting from $483,000 and up to $2.25 million.
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Little Projects sells Signature Broadbeach management rights to Ultiqa

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Online retail sales accelerated over 2018 but were slower over the month of November, according to the latest data from NAB's Online Retail Sales Index (NORSI).
ABS data on traditional retailers showed month on month seasonally adjusted sales rose (0.3%) in October 2018, outpaced by NORSI which grew 0.9% in that month.
NAB estimates put Australian online spend at around $28.86 billion over the 12 months to November 2018, which is equivalent to 9.0% of spending at traditional bricks &amp; mortar retailers, as measured by the ABS.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/1/10/NAB%20online%20retail.JPG" alt="">
The fastest growth in online retail sales over the year was recorded by department stores whose sales accelerated 10.6%.
Online grocery and liquor sales was again the second fastest category, growing 19.1% over the year to October.
Online sales in the personal and recreational category grew 12.4%, while media sales grew 14.6%, fashion grew 15.5%, and games and toys grew 55.5%.
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Food catering grew 6.7% and the and the smallest spend share category, daily deals grew 5.7%.
The largest sales category, homewares and appliances contracted slightly.
SME merchants represent over 35% of all online sales. 
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Australian online spending equaled 9% of spending at brick and mortar stores: NAB

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A recently renovated, Hamptons inspired home on the Gold Coast has been listed by Renee Morgan of Queensland Sotheby’s International Realty.
Morgan says the home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-robina-130165634" target="_blank">5 Julatten Drive in Robina</a> is one of the Gold Coast's most prestigious homes.
The two storey home on a 1,450 sqm waterfront block has four bedrooms, four bathrooms, a separate study.
There is a heated indoor pool and spa. 
Vendor Nicole Marino bought the home for $1,635,000 in 2017 before renovating.
<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/2019/1/10/robina%202.jpg" alt="">
Marino said the home is perfectly positioned to experience all that the Gold Coast has to offer.
“Robina Island offers an exclusive family orientated community with several parks and water access within short walking distance, while the home itself feels like a hidden retreat, offering complete privacy from the outside world,” Marino said.
Upon entry, the grand double staircase takes centre stage, with open plan living centred around a large void. 
<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/2019/1/10/robina%203.jpg" alt="">
The spacious ensuited master bedroom includes its own private fireplace and balcony, while the second bedroom features a private balcony and ensuite.
The home has several public and private schools, as well as childcare facilities nearby.
 
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Hamptons inspired Robina trophy home to be flipped 

For most new apartment buildings, the Owners Corporation starts life with little more than a bank account and the first quarterly strata levies.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/9-gay-street-castle-hill-9-gay-street-castle-hill-nsw-2154">9 Gay Street</a> in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/castle-hill-nsw-2154">Castle Hill</a>, it starts with around $7 million in reserve.

It's an unusual legacy of what was once one of Sydney's highest-profile apartment remediation projects. When the development, originally known as Skyview and built by disgraced developer Top Place, came under scrutiny by then NSW Building Commissioner David Chandler, an $11 million remediation bond was negotiated to ensure any building defects could be fully rectified.

The building underwent an 18-month remediation program, during which around $4 million of that bond was spent bringing the building up to the standard it should have been in from the outset.

After extensive inspections, all active rectification orders have been lifted. What's more, around $7.2 million remains secured for the Owners Corporation for the next 15 years.

In a twist few would have predicted, what began as a significant concern for purchasers has left the building with something almost unheard of in the apartment market: a multi-million-dollar financial reserve from day one.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147685 project_image_fid=359136]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Equitifund</a> Executive Chairman Greg Huxley said the structure offers buyers a level of certainty that is difficult to replicate.

"The $11 million bond established for the Skyview Castle Hill development represents exceptional value, providing genuine financial security for purchasers," Huxley said.

"Unlike a standard insurance policy, this bond consists of real funds held in trust for the Owners Corporation, offering a tangible layer of protection and added peace of mind."

The apartments themselves have been designed with a focus on practical, contemporary living. Interiors feature Smeg appliances, stone benchtops, tiled living areas, carpeted bedrooms, 2.7-metre ceilings, floor-to-ceiling glazing, and ducted heating and cooling throughout.

Residents also have access to a range of shared amenities, including two rooftop barbecue areas, a swimming pool, children's playgrounds, secure building access, storage cages, and visitor parking.

The location continues to be one of the project's strongest drawcards. Castle Hill Metro Station sits virtually on the doorstep, providing direct connections across Sydney's expanding Metro network, while Castle Towers offers extensive retail, dining, entertainment, and service amenities within walking distance.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147685 project_image_fid=359127]

The building, now named after its location at 9 Gay Street, comprises a diverse mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments starting from just under $600,000.

Equitifund National Sales Director Ben Hamblett said demand in the Hills District continues to be driven by buyers seeking convenience and connectivity.

"Interest from both owner-occupiers and investors in Castle Hill remains exceptionally strong, with buyers consistently prioritising developments in close proximity to the Metro station and Castle Towers Shopping Centre," Hamblett said.

"There is a clear trend in the market, with purchasers seeking convenient access to transport and lifestyle amenities that support a seamless, low-maintenance way of living."

On top of the long-term protection afforded by the remaining $7.2 million bond, Equitifund is offering a limited-time stamp duty rebate on selected apartments.

Eligible purchasers can also secure finance options, including a 3.99 per cent two-year variable rate, loan-to-value ratios of up to 90 per cent, and interest-only lending options through EquitiCredit.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=147685]

Joel Robinson

Why this Castle Hill apartment building starts with a $7 million advantage

For much of the past few years, conversations about Australia's property market have centred on the rapid growth seen in Sydney, Brisbane, Gold Coast, and Perth. <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/melbourne-vic-3004">Melbourne</a> has followed a different trajectory.

That relative underperformance is now encouraging some buyers to reassess the city, particularly those willing to look beyond short-term market movements and focus on quality property in established locations, along with the long-term growth prospects of a city expected to overtake Sydney as Australia’s most populous.

John Bekiaris, Research &amp; Market Insights at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Projects by Equitifund</a>, said Melbourne's current position is attracting increasingly sophisticated purchasers.

"Melbourne continues to present one of Australia's strongest long-term investment stories," Bekiaris says.

"While other capital cities have experienced stronger recent growth, that relative underperformance is exactly what's attracting sophisticated counter-cyclical investors."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1979 project_image_fid=363268]

Equitifund isn't just commenting on Melbourne's property market, it's investing in it.

The Sydney-headquartered capital partner has taken over the remaining apartments at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/victoriana-melbourne-20-queens-road-melbourne-vic-3004">Victoriana</a>, the recently completed glass-encased development opposite Albert Park Lake in Melbourne's tightly held St Kilda Road precinct.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a> and built by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/hickory">Hickory</a>, Victoriana places residents between one of Melbourne's most recognised parklands and the CBD, offering oversized two and three-bedroom apartments aimed at owner-occupiers seeking a genuine alternative to a traditional family home.

The development comprises 232 completed residences alongside a suite of resident amenities, including a 25-metre indoor swimming pool, gymnasium, landscaped entertaining areas, resident lounges, EV charging, secure basement parking and a concierge-style arrival experience.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1979 project_image_fid=363229]

The apartments have been designed with owner-occupiers firmly in mind.&nbsp;Open-plan living and dining areas flow onto generous balconies framing views across Albert Park Lake, Fawkner Park, the Royal Botanic Gardens and the Melbourne skyline.

Kitchens feature Gaggenau appliances, stone benchtops and generous preparation space. Bedrooms include built-in robes, while bathrooms feature full-height textured tiling. Hardwood flooring and ducted air conditioning complete residences designed for long-term living.

Rothelowman's architecture takes its cues from the landscape opposite the site. Sweeping horizontal glazing references the movement of Albert Park Lake, while generous balconies and expansive glazing strengthen the connection between the apartments and the surrounding parklands. The result is a building designed to deliver the scale and amenity expected of luxury apartment living, while offering the larger floorplans increasingly sought by owner-occupiers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1979 project_image_fid=363284]

The location is one of Victoriana's defining characteristics. Positioned on Queens Road, residents are directly opposite Albert Park Lake and within easy reach of Fawkner Park, the Royal Botanic Gardens, South Melbourne, St Kilda Road and the CBD. With few comparable development opportunities remaining in the precinct, buyers are increasingly placing value on outlooks that are unlikely to be interrupted by future construction.

Greg Huxley, Founder of Equitifund, believes those qualities become even more valuable over time.

"Premium real estate has always rewarded buyers who take a long-term view," Huxley said.

"Victoriana represents the kind of asset that's increasingly difficult to recreate today, particularly in an established location like Queens Road."

He said rising construction costs are also changing the way buyers assess completed developments.

"When you combine an irreplaceable location with thoughtful architecture and premium finishes, you create something that becomes increasingly difficult to reproduce as construction costs continue to rise."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1979 project_image_fid=363228]

According to National Sales Director Ben Hamblett, enquiry has been driven largely by Melbourne downsizers and buyers upgrading from smaller apartments.

"Interest in Victoriana continues to build, with strong buyer focus on the larger owner-occupier residences within the development," Hamblett says.

"Enquiry is increasingly driven by local buyers who recognise the rarity of what's on offer: park-facing apartments in an established neighbourhood where new development opportunities are becoming increasingly scarce. At Victoriana, the view is not just a feature; it's an appreciating asset in its own right."

He said interstate enquiry has also strengthened as buyers reassess Melbourne's position within the national property cycle.

"Melbourne currently stands as the most compelling entry point of any major Australian capital, and discerning buyers are beginning to recognise what those who move early always understand: the best opportunities are taken before the price rise confirms them."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=1979]

Why now is the time to buy in Melbourne's premium apartment market

Developers and apartment buyers have a narrowing window of opportunity before Brisbane's Olympic infrastructure pipeline begins competing directly with residential construction, pushing up costs, tightening labour supply and making new projects increasingly difficult to deliver.

While Brisbane's apartment market continues to benefit from strong population growth and limited housing supply, industry research suggests the years leading up to 2027 could prove to be the most important period for developers looking to secure builders and buyers hoping to purchase before the next wave of price increases.

A new Colliers report, Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games: Creating Solutions, highlights the scale of the challenge. While thousands of new homes are planned across South East Queensland, the Brisbane Olympic Athletes Village alone will deliver more than 10,500 beds during the Games before being converted into around 1,750 to 2,000 apartments. Equivalent to almost two years of typical inner-city apartment supply, the project will also absorb a significant share of the construction workforce and building materials.

The broader construction pipeline paints an even clearer picture.

Construction Skills Queensland's Horizon 2032 report forecasts Queensland's annual construction pipeline will average $69 billion over the coming years before peaking at $75 billion in 2027-28. Demand for construction workers is expected to increase by 17 per cent to almost 150,000 people, with the industry facing an annual shortfall of around 19,000 workers that could blow out to as many as 35,000 during the peak construction period.

The Olympic venues, athletes village and supporting infrastructure will account for billions of dollars worth of work across South East Queensland through to 2032, creating intense competition for labour at a time when Australia's residential construction sector is already under pressure.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150489 project_image_fid=373834]

Colliers Queensland Residential Director Andrew Scriven said the convergence of these projects is creating a clear window of opportunity for both developers and buyers.

"From 2027 onwards, the market will shift dramatically," Scriven said.

"Labour will increasingly be locked into government-led infrastructure and Olympic projects, which means private residential developments will face higher costs and tighter margins. The developers who move now are the ones most likely to get projects off the ground."

Scriven said the same dynamic would also affect buyers, with fewer apartment projects expected to launch once construction capacity tightens.

"If you're looking to change your lifestyle over the next five years, now is your window of opportunity to buy."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150713 project_image_fid=373827]

Developers are already positioning themselves ahead of that window.

Following the success of Monarch at Toowong, Consolidated Properties is preparing to launch two new Brisbane apartment projects in the second half of 2026. They include <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/gloriette-30-bedivere-street-yeerongpilly-qld-4105">Gloriette</a> at Yeerongpilly Green, a 25-storey tower within one of Brisbane's key Olympic precincts, and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/castile-47-skyring-terrace-newstead-qld-4006">Castile</a>, a recently approved 25-storey riverfront development at 47 Skyring Terrace in Newstead.

Hutchinson Builders will deliver both projects, with early works already underway at Yeerongpilly and Newstead expected to commence later this year.

The timing comes as Brisbane's fundamentals continue to strengthen, with strong interstate migration, population growth and vacancy rates remaining below 1.5 per cent.

Colliers Queensland researcher Pragya Sharma said Greater Brisbane is forecast to require around 40,000 new apartments between 2021 and 2031.

"There's a real mismatch emerging between when housing is needed and when it will be feasible to build," Sharma said.

"As a result, the period leading up to 2027 presents a key window of opportunity for developers to secure approvals, funding and construction capacity, while buyers will have greater choice before supply constraints intensify."

Colliers research outlines a critical pre-2027 window to start residential projects before labour squeeze: now is the time to buy

Developers, buyers on watch in South East Queensland ahead of construction crunch: Colliers

It's taken less than nine months for developer Sherpa Property Group to sell out all 51 apartments in its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-oasis-palm-beach-7-9-sixth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Oasis</a> development in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/palm-beach-qld-4221">Palm Beach</a>, over a year before its anticipated completion.

&nbsp;

Located at 7-9 Sixth Avenue, the $67 million development has resonated strongly with both local owner-occupiers and downsizers seeking high-quality apartments within walking distance of the beach, dining precincts and everyday amenities.

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Christie Leet, Founder of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sherpa-property-group">Sherpa Group</a>, said the sell-out reflected both the strength of the Palm Beach market and the success of Sherpa's community-first approach to development.

"The sell-out of Oasis is a fantastic outcome and reinforces the strong demand we're seeing for thoughtfully designed apartments in lifestyle locations," Leet said.

"From the outset, our vision was to create a development that genuinely enhanced the Palm Beach community while providing residents with exceptional homes and wellness-focused amenities.

"We've been incredibly encouraged by the level of local support throughout the campaign, 72.5 per cent of buyers are locals, with a significant proportion of purchasers choosing Oasis as their future home rather than an investment."

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Construction is now progressing following development approval, with trusted builder LPS Group delivering the project and completion anticipated in Q3 2027.

Oasis forms part of Sherpa Group's successful Flourish collection, which has become recognised for its focus on wellness, community and elevated coastal living.

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Residents will have private access to a rooftop amenity space featuring a pool, gym, sauna, steam room, hot and cold plunge pools, spa and barbecue facilities.

"The success of Oasis demonstrates that buyers continue to prioritise quality, location and lifestyle," Leet said.

"We are proud to have delivered a project that has resonated so strongly with the market and look forward to bringing Oasis to life for our future residents."

Sherpa recently launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-soleira-palm-beach-1150-1160-gold-coast-highway-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Soleira</a>, its third instalment of the Flourish brand in Palm Beach following Flourish Oasis and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/amargo-6-12-sixth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Amargo</a>.

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Sherpa sells out Flourish Oasis in booming Palm Beach

Urban Property Group's <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/la-vera-macquarie-park-94-talavera-road-macquarie-park-nsw-2113">La Vera</a> is leading the next phase of Macquarie Park's residential evolution, with the new apartment development set to become the first of several new apartment projects in the precinct to complete.

The 169-apartment building has now topped out ahead of its scheduled completion in the third quarter of 2026, as new residential investment continues to reshape one of Sydney's largest employment hubs into a true mixed-use precinct.

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Cox Architecture has designed La Vera to capture the best of its unique positioning on Talavera Road, orienting the building towards Lane Cove National Park.&nbsp;The building features a sculpted northern façade with flowing curves inspired by the surrounding landscape, while its city-facing elevation adopts a more structured architectural expression to maximise skyline views.

"The vision for the project was to conceive a building that adopted an organic and curvilinear form to the northern portion that faces the Lane Cove National Park," <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">Cox Architecture</a> Director Felipe Miranda said.

"The residents that reside in the northern portion of the building benefit by having beautifully crafted curved balconies that speak to the natural context and heighten the relationship of their internal living spaces to the external balconies."

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La Vera offers a diverse mix of one, two, three, and four-bedroom configurations, with prices currently starting from $740,000. Buyers so far have been a mix of Sydney-based investors,&nbsp;metro commuters, owner-occupiers and downsizers from surrounding North Shore suburbs.

Both investors and owner-occupiers have been drawn to La Vera's proximity to Macquarie University, Macquarie University Hospital, Macquarie Centre and the Sydney Metro, infrastructure that supports both strong rental demand and a convenient lifestyle for residents.

The apartments feature full-height glazing, timber flooring throughout living areas, stone kitchen benchtops, SMEG appliances, floor-to-ceiling bathroom tiling and ducted air conditioning.

Residents will have access to a rooftop recreation level featuring a swimming pool, sauna, barbecue facilities and landscaped relaxation areas, complemented by additional communal space at ground level. Many apartments enjoy uninterrupted views across Lane Cove National Park, reinforcing the project's connection to its natural setting.

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<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a>, a family-owned developer and builder with nearly four decades of experience, holds a 4.5-star iCIRT rating and was Australia's first developer to introduce 10-Year Latent Defects Insurance (LDI). La Vera is the first apartment development in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/macquarie-park-nsw-2113">Macquarie Park</a> approved to offer the additional insurance protection, alongside a five-year warranty on SMEG appliances.

Urban Property Group CEO Patrick Elias said the additional protection reflects changing buyer expectations in the off the plan market.

"Consumers are a lot more weary and a lot more concerned in buying off the plan than they ever have been. Having LDI is a tool to portray the confidence that we have in our product, and a confidence we want buyers to share," Elias said.

Following completion of the building later this year, buyers will move into their apartments well before Christmas.

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