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The 2019 March quarter ANZ-Property Council survey shows that confidence in Australia’s housing sector has fallen further than in 2018 and is now at its lowest level since the survey commenced in 2011.
It is not surprising given that many indicators are around their worst levels in many years.
"Housing prices, credit, auction results, days on market and vendor discounts are all weak," the report noted adding there is little sign of improvement.
"The ANZ-Property Council survey is consistent with these other indicators and suggests we are set for an extended period of weakness in the housing sector," it noted.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/1/10/ANZ-Prop%20Counc%20G1.JPG" alt="">
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NSW's property industry confidence has dropped to one of the lowest in the nation, according to the latest ANZ/Property Council Survey.
The largest decline in confidence came in Queensland.
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Property Council NSW Executive Director Jane Fitzgerald said sentiment is down.
"With a state and federal election just around the corner, I don’t think we will see it rebound in the short term despite stronger results in some sectors," she said.
“The industry is facing a lot of uncertainty and change, particularly over the past twelve months.
"We have seen the introduction of Special Infrastructure Contributions, increasing 7.11 levies, the changing of key policies such as the Medium Density Housing Code, the updating of Local Environmental Plans, and the review of approaches to planning in areas such as Ryde – that’s a lot of change for an industry."
“With a flat residential market, there is a real risk that this moving feast of policy changes will have a detrimental effect on economic growth and jobs. The 400,000 people who work in the property industry in NSW rely on a healthy industry for their economic wellbeing," she concluded.
David Plank, the ANZ Head of Australian Economics, said the survey gives a softer reading on the health of Australia’s property sector.
"Survey respondents report that the availability of finance will worsen further over the coming year, which is a central feature of our housing outlook.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/1/10/ANZ-Prop%20Counc%20G2.JPG" alt="">
"In turn, respondents also expect housing prices and construction activity will continue to ease.
"We think prices will fall through to 2020, and expect to see declines <a href="/expert-insights/buying/anz-revise-forecast-upwards-to-20-percent-house-price-declines-in-sydney-and-melbourne">around 15–20% peak to trough</a> for Sydney and Melbourne.
"We also think the decline in housing construction will accelerate through 2019 and 2020, as the current backlog of work is gradually completed.
"The survey also suggests that firms expect the next interest rate movement to be higher, though the conviction in this expectation has dropped from the last survey.
"With risks around global trade tension and questions over the sustainability of domestic household spending, we think any RBA move is still some time off.
"Overall, though, the forward work schedule is solid and employment intentions are holding up.
"But clearly sentiment in the property sector is being challenged by a number of significant headwinds.," Plank said.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Little sign of optimism in the residential sector as confidence falls to lowest levels: ANZ/Property Council

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House rents in Sydney have declined annually for the first time in more than 12 years and are now back to 2016 levels, according to the latest research released by Domain.
They found that house rents declined 1.8 per cent over the quarter and the year to $540 per week, while rental yields increased 0.9 per cent over the quarter and 4.2 per cent over the year to 3.24 per cent. 
Unit rents declined 2.8 per cent over the quarter to $530 per week and rental yields increased 0.1 per cent over the quarter and 1.7 per cent over the year to 3.87 per cent. 
For the first time since 2004 unit rents have fallen for two consecutive quarters.
The cost of renting a unit is now at 2017 levels.
For the first time in 11 years the cost of renting a house in Canberra is now higher than Sydney, according to the latest data from Domain.
The difference in weekly house rents between Canberra and Sydney has jumped to $20.
Canberra house rents increased 1.8 per cent over the quarter and 3.7 per cent over the year to $560 per week, while rental yields improved 1.4 per cent over the quarter and 0.6 per cent over the year to 4.36 per cent. 
Unit rents increased 3.3 per cent over the quarter and 8.1 per cent over the year to $465 per week.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/1/9/Domain%20Rent%20Syd.JPG" alt=""> Domain research analyst, Dr Nicola Powell said available rental stock continued to increased over the year, with development completions adding to the pipeline of supply.
"We expect rental supply to increase further in 2019, putting tenants in the driver’s seat. Tenants will find greater bargaining power as rising supply keeps pressure on rents, providing strong grounds to negotiate lease terms. Landlords will be keen to retain good tenants as leases expire, with incentives and rental discounts a realistic prospect.” “Gross yields are nearing a two-year high, suggesting rental prices are holding firmer than property values. Despite improved yields, we expect many investors will look to other capital city markets in 2019, with the prospect of short-term capital gains unlikely.
"This could serve to tighten rental supply over the long term. However, slowing interstate and overseas migration could offset this impact,” she concluded.
Melbourne house and unit rental prices continue to rise, with both achieving new record highs, according to the latest research from Domain.
Domain found, Melbourne house rents increased 2.3 per cent over the quarter and 3.5 per cent over the year to $440 per week, while rental yields improved 1.4 per cent over the quarter and 4.4 per cent over the year to 3.20 per cent. 
Available Brisbane rental stock has been sliding since the end of 2017, and is now at a three and a half year low, according to the latest research from Domain.
House rents increased 2.5 per cent over the quarter and year to $410 per week, while rental yields declined 0.3 per cent over the quarter but increased 1 per cent over the year to 4.62 per cent. 
Brisbane unit rents increased 1.3 per cent over the quarter and 2.7 per cent over the year to $380 per week.
However, rental yields declined 0.2 per cent over the quarter but improved 3.7 per cent over the year to 5.12 per cent.
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“If rental stock keeps shrinking, greater competition between tenants will emerge, putting further upward pressure on rental prices, a marked change given the prolonged period of stability," Domain research analyst, Dr Nicola Powell said.
"House and unit rents are already displaying a higher pace of growth relative to last year, with houses recording the first positive movement and units the strongest gain on an annual basis in roughly three years.”
“Population growth in the sunshine state has been driven in fairly equal measure by natural increases, interstate migration and overseas migration. Queensland is the only state or territory to have such balance, which has helped to support a broad-based demand for housing. Job prospects, an improving economy and greater housing affordability continues to lure residents from NSW and Victoria.”
“Given property prices have fallen in Sydney and Melbourne, investors have already started to find Brisbane a more attractive option as they seek better yields and growth potential. Investors will be further enticed north as rental prices and gross yields continue to improve,” she concluded.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/1/9/Domain%20Rent%20Bris.JPG" alt="">
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Sydney no longer the nation’s most expensive capital city to rent a house: Domain

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The NSW Valuer General has released the latest official land values.
Residential land values increased by 4.4% over the year.
There had been a 14.1 per cent rise in the previous year.
The land values are for the value of the land only, as at 1 July 2018.
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One of the biggest increase was in Ku-Ring-Gai local government area where residential land values increased by 22.5% with very strong increases in land values for mixed use properties along the Pacific Highway (45.8%).
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Residential land values increased in the Lane Cove local government area by 17.4%, due to demand for housing near public transport, main roads and the business centres of North Sydney, Chatswood and Macquarie Park.
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Acting Valuer General Michael Parker said the land values are made by independent contract valuers following the analysis of over 46,000 sales. 
Residential land values in the Sydney Central region recorded an increase of 2.1%, the so-called Sydney East region increased by 3.2% and the Sydney West region had a 3.8% increase.
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Decreases were recorded in the Georges River suburbs (-3.3%).
Rural NSW land values increased overall by 14.3% due to continued demand and firm commodity prices. 
Most locations recorded strong increases despite the continuing dry conditions, the department noted.
The land values reflect the property market at 1 July 2018. Land values do not include the value of a home or other structures.
Mr Parker encouraged the public to visit valuergeneral.nsw.gov.au for more information on land values and the valuation system.
“The latest land values for all properties in NSW are available on our website along withinformation on trends, medians and typical land values for each local government area,” Mr Parker said.
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The Sydney East region saw its strongest increases in the local government areas of North Sydney and Mosman, which showed 14.4% and 11.2% increases respectively.
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The Blue Mountains local government area had an increase of 16.6%. The Hills Shire (0.7%) and Fairfield (1.5%) local government areas had steady residential land values.
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Ku-Ring-Gai and Lane Cove show strongest gains as NSW residential land values up 4.4% over the year

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National residential listings declined 9.2% in December 2018 to 328,203 from 361,619 in November 2018, according to SQM Research.
It noted that the stock reduction in all cities was expected during the festive and summer break, however, the decline in Sydney, Melbourne and Canberra were larger than expected.
Residential listings were down on November in Sydney 17.7%, Melbourne 17.2% and Canberra 15.5%.
Hobart recorded the smallest monthly decline at 5.8%.
But compared to a year earlier, national listings were up 2.8%, with Sydney, Melbourne and Canberra’s year-on-year listings up the most - Melbourne up 25.4%, Canberra 19.3% and Sydney up 16.5%.
Hobart on the other hand experienced a yearly decline of 5.8%, with residential property listings dropping from 2,426 in December 2017 to 2,286 in December 2018.
Adelaide and Darwin also experienced yearly declines of sale listings at 4.1% and 2.9%, respectively.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/1/8/SQM%20Table%201.JPG" alt="">
(Source: SQM Research)
Louis Christopher, managing director of SQM Research, said listings in December had some large falls however, let us keep in mind there was a surge in listings recorded in November and that December traditionally records a large fall in properties for sale as this is a holiday period.
“Our view remains in place that prices will likely fall in Sydney and Melbourne over the course of 2019.
"We note however that Melbourne house asking prices increased during the month by 0.3% as did unit asking prices in Sydney 0.7%.
"I also note that national listings are now only up 2.8% for the year, indicating that regional centres may well have outperformed the major capital cities in 2018.”
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Asking prices were a different story as capital city asking prices rose 0.4% for units to $571,600 but declined 0.9% for houses to $924,500, for the month to 31 December 2018.
The largest monthly rise came from Canberra, where house asking prices rose 2.5%. However, Unit asking prices in Canberra declined by 1.1%.
Sydney recorded the highest increase in Unit asking prices of 0.7% but the largest decline in House asking prices of 1.6% over the month.
Year-on-year asking price gains were the strongest in Canberra for both houses and units, with house prices rising by 3.4% and Units by 7.9%.
Year-on-year prices fell in Sydney, Darwin and Perth for both houses and units.
Brisbane and Hobart recorded increases in house asking prices but unit prices declined year-on-year.
This was reversed in Adelaide and Melbourne which recorded decreases in house prices but increases in unit asking prices over the year.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/1/8/SQM%20Table%202.JPG" alt="">
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December 2018 national residential listings sat higher than December 2017: SQM Research

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The Bank of Queensland has become the first bank to officially hike home loan rates out of cycle in 2019.
The decision affects a range of BOQ variable rate loans including their Economy Variable Home Loan which is increasing by 0.11 per cent for both new and existing customers.
Other loans are increasing by up to 0.18 per cent, effective from January 11th.
That increases the price of monthly repayments on a $500,000 dollar loan by $32 and over the life of the loan it will cost an additional $11,369
RateCity.com.au research director Sally Tindall said the bank has cited cost of funding pressures and intense competition in term deposits as the reasons for the hike.
“These cost of funding pressures are affecting most banks so it’s likely we’ll see other lenders follow suit in 2019,” she said"
“A lot of household budgets are feeling the pinch after Christmas. While most families will be able to absorb this hike, some may struggle to come up with the extra cash,” she concluded.
Bank of Queensland is the ninth largest mortgage lender in Australia, according to APRA.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/1/8/BOQ%20hike.JPG" alt="">
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Bank of Queensland hikes home loan rates for 2019

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South Australia’s housing market is forecast to remain relatively subdued with slow but steady growth, according to the latest report from Moody's Analytics.
Moody’s Analytics have forecast housing values will pick up slightly in 2019, while apartment values will likely be weak off the back of a slow 2018.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/1/8/Adelaide%201.JPG" alt="">
Greater Adelaide is expected to see sustained housing growth of 2.6% in 2019 and 3.6% in 2020, a small improvement on 2018, while apartments are forecast to see subdued growth as in the trend of previous years.
The Central and Hills region of Adelaide is forecast to see housing growth of 2.5% in 2019 in line with greater Adelaide and slightly less growth in 2020, while apartments are expected to stabilise after making a small loss last year of -0.8%.
Adelaide North is forecast to have greater growth in 2020 than in 2019 reaching 4.6% an improvement on its previous performance, while apartments are forecast to continue a small downward trend in 2019 and 2020.
The Southern Adelaide region is forecast to have the strongest housing growth in Adelaide growing 3.7% in 2019 and 4.9% in 2020, while apartments are forecast to have slow growth in 2019 of 1.4% and the strongest apartment growth of any SA region in 2020 at 3.9%.
Western Adelaide is forecast to see small growth in housing prices in 2019 and 2020 of 2% and 2.9% respectively, while apartments are expected to have a strong 2019 with growth of 3% lower than their 2018 growth of 4.5% before slumping to a loss in of 2.9% in 2020.
The rest of SA is expected to be continued a trend of home price weakness in 2019 with a loss of -0.6% forecast by Moody's Analytics, however in 2020 a recovery has been predicted with growth pegged at 4.2%.
Barossa, Yorke, and Mid North SA are predicted to experience weakening house prices in 2019 before experiencing a pick up in 2020 of 3.4%, after experiencing price growth in 2017 and 2018.
The Outback region of SA is forecast to see price falls of -10.2 throughout 2019 continuing a trend of price falls before bouncing back in 2020 to grow 5.6%.
South East SA is forecast to have consistent price growth in 2019 (3.9%) and 2020 (4.1%) after seeing a reduction of -0.6% last year. 
The report authors note, "although low population growth has dampened home values, a recovery in employment growth, coupled with increased incomes over the next few years, could result in pockets of South Australia outperforming the rest of the state."
The dwelling market in Adelaide-North is likely to remain mixed with house values expected to accelerate while apartment values remain subdued.
Overall, population growth has supported home values; nearly 50% of the total population gain in Adelaide has been in Adelaide-North in 2016-2017.
However population growth is expected to moderate.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/1/8/Adelaide%203.JPG" alt="">
The report said, "the Adelaide-Central and Hills region enjoyed a strong run in 2017, but values have slowed in 2018, and a slow recovery is likely in 2019."
"Moreover, a strong runup in apartment supply since 2014 has prompted apartment values to fall in 2018, and only a small recovery is likely in 2019 and 2020."
"A higher supply—with around 1.4 apartments approved for every home approved since 2015—will limit apartment value gains in the region," the report stated.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/1/8/Adelaide%202.JPG" alt="">
Moody's Analytics forecast that slow population and income growth will weigh on the South Australian housing market.
They have also predicted that high rental values will keep the Adelaide housing market stable and prevent a sharp collapse seen elsewhere nationwide.
Notably, agriculture commodity prices are expected to remain subdued, while the Australian dollar is unlikely to fall further.
These external developments will limit income gains across the Barossa-Yorke-Mid North and South Australia-Outback regions in the coming years.
Consequently it is forecast the housing market there is will correct further in 2019 before a recovery takes place in 2020.
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Adelaide's housing market forecast to see slow but steady growth: Moody's Analytics

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A home in Gunn in the Northern Territory has been sold by its mortgagee in possession for a loss of $105,000.
The home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nt-gunn-107564066" target="_blank">17 Bryant Terrace, Gunn</a>, the sold for $340,000, a substantial drop from its 2011 sale price of $445,000.
Located a minutes drive from the Palmerston CBD, the home features air conditioning and security screens throughout.
The home is also within 2 km of a number of schools and has parking for two cars.
Set on 480 sqm the home was listed as a rental as recently as June of this year at $460 per week.
The median price for a house in <a href="/developments/gunn-nt-0832">Gunn</a> is $453,000, according to CoreLogic data, which put the annual change in median house price over the past ten years as 1.4%.
In November of 2017 another mortgagee sale took place in Gunn, <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nt-gunn-126051690" target="_blank">7 Bett Bett Court</a>.
Set on 790 sqm the three bedroom two bathroom house sold for $440,000.
The sale also lost just over $100,000 dollars on its previously sale price as it went for $555,000 in 2010.
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Gunn, NT home sold by mortgagee for $100,000 loss

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Queensland’s 2019 housing market is expected to vary across the state, largely because of its diverse economy, according to Moody's Analytics latest report.
The report noted that the Brisbane area has seen its strongest growth since the lull in 2012, thanks mostly to improved activity in the services sector.
The outlook for Queensland's housing markets is for either flat or mildly positive returns over the next two years.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/1/7/Moodys%20Graph%203.JPG" alt="">
The authors noted, "although Brisbane home values rose steadily through 2017 and 2018, the apartment market has been more subdued."
"A runup in supply over the past few years has capped gains in the apartment market."
"However, supply has tightened since its peak; the latest data suggest apartment building approvals have fallen from their 2013 levels."
"Therefore, a reduced apartment glut will likely usher in a broad-based recovery in apartment values from 2019 onward," according to the report authors.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/1/8/Brisbane%20apts%203.JPG" alt="">
The contrast between home and apartment values is most apparent in Brisbane Inner City (comprising South Brisbane, Ascot and Grange).
Moody’s Analytics forecasts home values to underperform throughout the forecast period, while apartment values are expected to accelerate.
This is a reversal of trend from the past few years; home values had risen more than 30% since mid-2012, while apartment values had risen only around 5%.
 <img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/1/8/Brisbane%20apts%204.JPG" alt="">
(Source: Moody's Analytics, CoreLogic)
Apartments in Greater Brisbane are forecast to grow 2.8 percent overall in 2019 with every region seeing growth, ranging from 2.7% to 7.6%, after falling -3.1 and -0.9 percent in prior years.
Moreton Bay, Logan and Ipswich are projected by Moody's Analytics to be the three largest growth areas for apartments with a forecast growth over 2019 and 2020 ranging from 13.5% in Ipswich to 18.6% in Moreton Bay - North over the next two year. 
Brisbane North and South as well as the Inner City Brisbane region are expected to see medium to high growth with Inner City region expecting growth of 7.3%.
However Brisbane East and the Inner City region are expected to see a slowdown in 2020 with both areas still forecast to grow.
The second housing sector comprising more “lifestyle” areas, including Sunshine Coast, Wide Bay and Cairns, are expected to perform better over the forecast period, as income growth remains robust and the degree of supply increase is not as great as in areas of Brisbane.
Lifestyle areas are also buoyed by overseas tourist demand, which has remained strong on the back of the falling Australian dollar.
Moody’s Analytics forecasts home values to underperform throughout the forecast period, while apartment values are expected to accelerate.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/1/7/Moodys%20Graph%204.JPG" alt="">
The third housing market region in Queensland comprises commodity-producing areas.
These include Central Queensland, Mackay-Isaac-Whitsunday, and Darling Downs-Maranoa.
The report authors note, "values have declined significantly here over the past few years, partly as a result of the end of the mining boom."
"The recent uptick in commodity prices is unlikely to provide a tailwind, with housing values expected to correct further through 2019."
"A lack of job opportunities will subdue population growth, lowering equilibrium home values," the authors concluded.
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Brisbane apartment market forecast to see stronger price growth in 2019: Moody's Analytics

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A mortgagee has sold a Charters Towers City, Qld house for just over half of it's original purchase price.
Located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-qld-charters+towers+city-129763434" target="_blank">4 Vulture Street, Charters Towers City</a> the home sold for $70,000 in December last year.
The one bedroom one bathroom home features a timber veranda.
Set on a fenced 1,083 sqm block the home was previously sold for $135,000 in 2013 and $117,500 in 2010.
Situated within close proximity to parks and a supermarket the house is within 1 km of the town centre.
The median price for a home in <a href="/developments/charters-towers-city-qld-4820">Charters Towers City</a> is $130,000, according to CoreLogic data, with a -3.9% decline in annual year on year median price over the past 10 years.
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The northern Queensland town is 134 kilometres inland from Townsville on the Flinders Highway.
In 2016 the population was around 8,000 people.
Early last year a Charters Towers City property, <a href="/expert-insights/buying/charters-towers-city-queensland-mortgagee-property-listed-for-50-000">listed for sale with $50,000 hopes</a>, fetched $66,500.
It was listed for mortgagee sale by Kym Whelan from Geaney's Real Estate.
It had last traded at $183,000 in 2009, and at $74,000 in 2006 and $56,000 in 2004.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-charters+towers+city-127434326" target="_blank">The 3 Regent Street house</a> came with three bedrooms, two sheds and an outdoor entertaining area on 941 square metres.
It had a $52,000 official land value in 2015.
At the time CoreLogic's median house price sat <a href="/developments/charters-towers-city-qld-4820">$121,000</a>.
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Charters Towers City, Qld home sold for half price by mortgagee

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The Sydney and Melbourne housing markets will keep leading the property price decline, after sustained weakness in 2018, according to the latest report from Moody's Analytics.
The CoreLogic-Moody’s Analytics report estimates that the Sydney housing market declined by 5.2% in 2018, and a further 3.3% drop is forecast for 2019. This follows the 12.8% rise in 2017.
However, apartment values are set to recover modestly after a 2.9% decrease in 2018.
House values in Melbourne are set for a steeper correction; they are forecast to fall by 6% in 2019 on the back of declines in Inner Melbourne areas, compared with a 0.1% fall in 2018.
Melbourne’s apartment market is expected to have slowed in 2018, followed by sharper slowdown in 2019.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/1/7/Moodys%20Graph%201.JPG" alt="">
The report said house values across Brisbane are forecast to gain a mild 1.2% in 2019, with strength in West Brisbane and Inner Brisbane offsetting declines in South Brisbane.
"The worst is likely over for Brisbane’s apartment market."
"Apartment values are forecast to recover by 2.8% in 2019, followed by sharper growth of 6.5% in 2020," the report added.
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Although commodity prices are stabilising, house values in Perth will likely decline 2.8% in 2019, followed by a recovery in 2020, thanks to population growth.
Meanwhile, Adelaide’s housing market will continue its stable run: House values in Adelaide are forecast to rise 2.6% in 2019, after a 1.9% expected gain in 2018.
Hobart’s housing market is likely at the end of its bull run; home values are forecast to decelerate to 2.7% in 2019, followed by a 2% fall in 2020.
Similarly, the Hobart apartment market will likely decelerate from 11.7% growth in 2018 to 1.9% in 2019, the report noted.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/1/7/Moodys%20Graph%202.JPG" alt="">
The report authors, said "Australia’s housing market has continued its entrenched cooling trend in the final months of 2018."
"The decline has been sharper in home values over apartment values: Home values have fallen more than 4.5% from their peak late last year, while apartment values are down 3.3%," they concluded. 
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Melbourne to be hit hardest in 2019 property price falls: Moody's Analytics

A mix of Gold Coast locals, fly-in, fly-out purchasers from Sydney and Melbourne, and Brisbane-based families has driven early sales success at Broadbeach's newest apartment tower, Lumara.

The 26-level project, a joint venture between builder-developer 5Point Projects and Bourke Projects, comprises just 37 luxury residences and is attracting a buyer profile that is looking for exclusivity, above the most amenity-rich suburb on the Gold Coast.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150454 project_image_fid=364156]

Jamie Bourke, Director of Bourke Projects, says every buyer secured so far intends to use Lumara as a lock-up-and-leave residence, combining holiday use with the ability to work remotely when required.

“The size of the apartments, both half- and full-floor options, and the different zones within the floorplans, lends itself perfectly to dedicated home office setups and multi-generational family holidays,” Bourke says.

That flexibility has become a key drawcard for affluent buyers seeking a second residence on the Gold Coast without sacrificing the ability to conduct business away from their primary home base.

The absence of holiday letting within the building has also resonated strongly with purchasers.

“This type of buyer doesn't need to generate holiday rental income,” Bourke says. “They're paying for exclusivity, privacy and certainty around who their neighbours are.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150454 project_image_fid=366491]

The strong demand comes amid broader shifts in the high-end apartment market following the Federal Budget announcements in May.

“We were already seeing strong enquiry from high-net-worth buyers, but that has only accelerated since the policy changes,” Bourke says.

“A lot of those buyers are looking to place more capital into premium lifestyle assets rather than investment-grade stock that has been targeted by the Federal Government.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150454 project_image_fid=366486]

Designed by Cottee Parker, Lumara adopts a slender, sculpted form with an emphasis on natural materials suited to its beachfront setting. The architectural approach draws on coastal influences, with a palette of stone, timber and concrete selected for durability and the ability to weather over time.

Apartments are limited to three and four-bedroom configurations, with a maximum of two residences per floor through the mid-levels and a selection of full-floor and dual-level homes in the upper levels. All apartments are oriented to the north to maximise natural light, cross-ventilation and views across the ocean, city skyline and hinterland.

A two-level amenity offering is positioned high within the building on levels 20 and 21, conceived as a sky wellness retreat. Facilities include a magnesium pool, spa, sauna and steam rooms, alongside more social spaces such as a private dining room, resident lounge, workspaces and outdoor barbecue areas integrated with landscaped greenery.

The uppermost levels are reserved for larger-format residences, including several full-floor homes and a dual-level penthouse with its own private wellness features and recreational spaces.

&nbsp;

To give buyers confidence, 5Point and Bourke commenced construction ahead of the apartments launching to the market, a sure-fire way to prove they mean business, and the building will be delivered. They are targeting a 2028 completion date.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150454]

Joel Robinson

Locals, interstate holiday makers, drive early sales at Lumara, Broadbeach's newest luxury apartment tower

Often when it comes to purchasing property, the biggest barrier to entry is the deposit. Buyers of established homes typically aim for a 20 per cent deposit to avoid the added cost of Lenders Mortgage Insurance, while most property transactions require around a 10 per cent deposit when contracts are exchanged.

The off-the-plan market works differently, with buyers typically paying a deposit during construction and settling the balance upon completion. As completion approaches at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/fabbrica-fitzroy-369-gore-street-fitzroy-vic-3065">Fabbrica Fitzroy</a>, developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/pace-development-group">Pace</a> is making it easier for buyers to secure a residence through a deposit-matching incentive. Purchasers need only contribute a five per cent deposit*, with Pace matching the remaining five per cent.

The offer comes as Pace unveils a completed display apartment and townhouse, now available for inspection by appointment ahead of the project's Spring completion.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139552 project_image_fid=371009]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a> with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/winwood-mckenzie-architecture">Winwood Mckenzie</a> and landscaping by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/acre">Acre</a>, Fabbrica draws on Fitzroy’s industrial and manufacturing history, incorporating references to the former Argyle Shirt Factory and Life Savers Confectionery Company that once occupied the site.

The development comprises 85 residences, spanning low-maintenance apartments through to larger-format townhouses with private street access and double lock-up garages, a relatively uncommon offering in Fitzroy’s higher-density apartment market.

Pace says the project has been designed to appeal to buyers seeking inner-city convenience without sacrificing space, flexibility, or amenity.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139552 project_image_fid=371016]

Inside the residences, Winwood Mckenzie has focused on adaptable layouts and integrated detailing, with features including custom joinery, and concealed storage solutions. The material palette leans into warm, tactile finishes intended to complement the building’s industrial architectural language.

Fabbrica’s rooftop amenity is a key part of the project offering. Spanning around 800 sqm, the communal rooftop includes a private dining room, communal kitchen, lounge spaces, work-from-home zones, and outdoor dining areas overlooking the Melbourne CBD skyline.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139552 project_image_fid=371017]

Landscape architecture studio Acre has introduced a layered rooftop garden designed to soften the urban setting while creating a more communal environment for residents.

The Fitzroy location also positions residents within walking distance of Brunswick Street, Smith Street, parks, cafés, galleries, and public transport, while remaining only minutes from Melbourne’s CBD. The project has an enviable Walk Score of 96.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139552 project_image_fid=371025]

Pace, which is also delivering the project as builder, has developed more than 100 projects across Melbourne over the past three decades. The vertically integrated approach has become increasingly common among developers seeking greater control over construction delivery amid broader market pressures affecting the apartment sector.

The strikingly contemporary Gore Street development is now around 70 per cent complete, with purchasers expected to move into their new homes in Spring 2026. A limited number of residences remain available under the current deposit match offer.

*Conditions apply in relation to the deposit match offer.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=139552]

Pace offers five per cent deposit match at Fabbrica Fitzroy ahead of Spring completion

Sydney developer Hyecorp's roots on the Lower North Shore stretch back three generations, and that deep understanding of the market continues to shape where and how it develops today.

From high-rise towers to boutique apartment projects, the family-run developer has built its reputation by focusing on a part of Sydney it knows intimately. Founded by Michael Abolakian in the early 1990s, Hyecorp is now led by his sons Stephen, Troy and Patrick.

Stephen Abolakian, joint managing director alongside Troy, has spent more than two decades in the business, overseeing development, planning, finance, marketing and sales.

Abolakian says the developer's disciplined focus on where it chooses to operate has been, and continues to be, one of Hyecorp's greatest strengths.

“We know the buyer profile exceptionally well,” Abolakian says.

“The demographics between places like Willoughby, Chatswood, St Leonards and Roseville are very similar. There are nuances between suburbs and projects, but culturally and from a buyer perspective, there’s a strong overlap.”

That buyer has historically been overwhelmingly owner-occupier driven.

Unlike many Sydney apartment developers that have traditionally relied heavily on investor demand, Hyecorp’s projects have typically attracted downsizers, upsizers, rightsizers and family owner-occupiers seeking long-term homes rather than short-term investments.

“Historically, investors have been a much smaller portion of our demand profile,” Abolakian says.

“We design for owner-occupiers. We don’t design for yield, we design for comfort, amenity, family living and long-term usability.”

That philosophy extends well beyond apartment layouts.

From landscaping and communal gardens to shared amenities and circulation spaces, Hyecorp’s developments are designed around how people actually live, something Abolakian believes has become increasingly important in Sydney’s apartment market.

“There was probably a period where having an approved project in market was enough,” he says.

“There wasn’t as much competition and if you built it, buyers would come. That’s no longer the case.”

“There’s more supply in the pipeline now, particularly with TOD precincts and low and mid-rise reforms opening up opportunities across Sydney. Buyers have more choice, so if you get the product wrong, they’ll simply go elsewhere.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110379 project_image_fid=311393]

The shift has forced developers to become more sophisticated in how they approach apartment design, particularly as owner-occupier expectations continue to rise.

For Hyecorp, that means thinking beyond who the buyer is today and designing for who they may become in five or 10 years' time.

“People buying now often aren’t moving in for several years,” Abolakian says.

“You might have a young couple buying today, but by the time they move in they may have children, older children, or changing lifestyle needs. You’ve got to think about how families evolve.”

That thinking also shapes Hyecorp’s approach to amenity, which positions wellness at the forefront.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149594 project_image_fid=362634]

While resort-style facilities have become increasingly common marketing tools across Sydney apartment developments, Abolakian says the challenge is ensuring amenities are genuinely usable and appropriate for the scale of the project.

“If amenities are done right, they can materially improve the living experience,” he says, adding however that if you&nbsp;overdo it or get it wrong, you can end up with facilities nobody uses that simply create ongoing strata costs.”

That balance is something Hyecorp is aiming to strike with projects like Roseville Avenue, one of the group's upcoming Lower North Shore developments, which Abolakian describes as bringing a resort-style living experience into a metropolitan setting.

“It’s about creating something that feels special without being excessive,” he says.

“Good gardens, quality apartments, thoughtful amenity. Creating that resort feeling in a metro location.”

<img alt="Hyecorp" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="13c4c0f3-b1b7-44cf-9344-0b3d1d07797a" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-02%20at%2012.14.57%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=9OLWjyj2bYkDV35F78WJnyMSPfc2bJ2z" />

The focus on owner-occupier product comes as Sydney’s apartment market continues to navigate a difficult development environment.&nbsp;For Hyecorp, maintaining an in-house operating model across construction, sales, marketing and development management has become increasingly important in navigating that environment.

“We’ve always believed in keeping a lot of the process in-house,” Abolakian says.

“It creates efficiencies, but it also creates quality control. You can make faster decisions and ensure the end product stays aligned with the original vision.”

Despite the challenges, Abolakian believes demand for quality owner-occupier apartments across Sydney remains strong beneath the surface, particularly across established Lower North Shore suburbs where downsizers continue to seek new housing options close to existing communities.

“There are definitely people waiting,” he says.

“Once some of the broader uncertainty settles, whether that’s the global environment or some of the local economic noise, I think the right projects will perform very strongly.”

Hyecorp currently has three residential developments on the market across Sydney’s Lower North Shore.&nbsp;Audrey, St Leonards, positioned opposite Newlands Park, is nearing completion and preparing to welcome its first residents, with the project now almost sold out.

Hyecorp has also recently launched&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/celine-chatswood-37-archer-street-chatswood-nsw-2067">Celine Chatswood</a>, an architectural tower, while continuing to deliver&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/juliet-roseville-64-pacific-highway-roseville-nsw-2069">Juliet Roseville</a>, a more boutique scale of development with just 34 apartments.

Why Hyecorp continues to back Sydney's Lower North Shore apartment market

South East Queensland’s apartment market is entering a new phase defined by rising prices, constrained affordability, and mounting pressure on the construction pipeline, according to RPM Group’s latest SEQ Apartments &amp; Townhomes Market Report.

The May 2026 report highlights a widening divide between what buyers can afford and what developers can viably deliver, with detached house prices continuing to push more buyers toward apartments across Brisbane, the Gold Coast, and the Sunshine Coast.

RPM says Brisbane’s median house price has reached around $1.5 million, accelerating the shift toward higher-density housing as buyers are increasingly priced out of the detached market.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135094 project_image_fid=356540]

Median unit prices rose across all three major SEQ markets in the March quarter. Brisbane City recorded the strongest annual growth, with median unit prices climbing 21 per cent to $862,000, while the Gold Coast reached the highest overall median at $950,000, up 17 per cent year-on-year. The Sunshine Coast followed at $870,000, representing annual growth of nine per cent.

RPM noted the affordability gap between houses and units remains significant, with detached homes commanding premiums of 67 per cent in Brisbane and 68 per cent on the Gold Coast relative to apartments.

The report suggests this price disparity is increasingly consolidating buyer demand within the apartment market, particularly among downsizers and owner-occupiers.

“Demand is real. Supply is moving. But they’re operating on different timelines and the gap between what’s being built and what buyers can afford is the defining tension in this market right now,” RPM Queensland and NSW Managing Directors Peter Neale and Clinton Trezise said in the report.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150787 project_image_fid=366230]

While approvals and commencements are strengthening, RPM argues the delivery pipeline remains constrained by construction costs, labour shortages, and extended build timelines.

Apartment approvals across Queensland increased 86 per cent over the year to February 2026, reaching 12,682 approvals, the highest level recorded since 2016. Brisbane overtook the Gold Coast as the state’s most active apartment approval market, with nearly 5,000 apartments approved over the past 12 months.

Unit commencements also strengthened considerably, rising 48 per cent year-on-year to 5,453 commencements in the December 2025 quarter, the highest level since 2018.

However, RPM’s research found apartment delivery timeframes have expanded sharply compared to the previous cycle. Projects are now averaging around 30 months from approval to completion, compared to roughly 20 months a decade ago.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=143932 project_image_fid=367515]

The number of units under construction has climbed to approximately 31,530 dwellings, nearing the previous 2016 peak, though projects are remaining in the pipeline for considerably longer.

Construction costs continue to weigh heavily on feasibility. RPM found the average apartment construction cost in Greater Brisbane reached $630,000 per dwelling in 2025, exceeding both Sydney and Melbourne. Coastal Queensland markets, including the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast, were even higher at an average of $817,418 per apartment due to the prevalence of larger premium product.

The report also points to increasing pressure from Olympic-related infrastructure spending ahead of Brisbane 2032, with labour competition expected to intensify over the next several years.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=370960]

ANZ Associate Director of Property Daniel Gradwell said the underlying demand drivers across South East Queensland remain strong, supported by interstate migration, downsizers, and population growth.

“The challenge is bringing enough supply to market to meet that demand, and nothing on the horizon makes that straightforward,” Gradwell said.

RPM’s analysis found the affordability challenge is becoming more pronounced in the new apartment market itself, with only three per cent of surveyed new apartments priced below $1 million.

Instead, the market is increasingly concentrated in higher price brackets, with the most common new apartment price band across SEQ sitting between $1.5 million and $1.75 million. Around half of all new apartment stock surveyed is priced below $2 million.

The report suggests developers are not necessarily avoiding lower price points by choice, but because current construction economics make delivering affordable apartments increasingly difficult at scale.

Rental conditions also remain tight across the region. Median rents for one-bedroom apartments rose 12 per cent in Brisbane over the past year to $580 per week, while Gold Coast one-bedroom rents increased nine per cent to $630.

Despite rising rents, RPM noted bond lodgements have generally trended downward over the past five years, indicating more apartments are being absorbed by owner-occupiers rather than retained as investor-held rental stock.

Looking ahead, RPM expects projects targeting the mid-market owner-occupier segment between $1.25 million and $2 million to remain the most viable part of the market, while premium projects in highly constrained coastal or riverfront locations continue to attract demand.

“Construction costs are rewriting the feasibility rulebook across Greater Brisbane, and with little relief in sight, only projects in the right price band, right location, and with presales secured early will make it through,” the report concludes.

SEQ apartment demand outpacing affordable supply as construction timelines stretch: RPM

Camberwell Junction has long been the epicentre of amenity in Melbourne’s Boroondara region.

For nearly a century, it has drawn both locals and visitors, anchored by the Camberwell Sunday Market, which first operated in 1929 and quickly became a fixture of the suburb’s identity. Over time, the Junction evolved into one of Melbourne’s most established retail and lifestyle precincts, now comprising more than 400 stores and over 300 commercial businesses.

Despite that depth of amenity, one thing has remained notably limited: the supply of new apartments.

In a suburb defined by its heritage streetscapes and tightly held residential stock, new development opportunities have been scarce, particularly within the core of the Junction itself. That lack of supply has left a gap in the market for larger, design-led apartments suited to downsizers and owner-occupiers wanting to remain in the area.

Boutique developer Above Zero identified that gap when it secured a prime site on Burke Road, in the heart of Camberwell Junction.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4896 project_image_fid=368543]

The site has a long planning history. Various proposals have been put forward over more than a decade, many of which were knocked back by the City of Boroondara, with initial applications dating back to 2015. Above Zero acquired the site in 2022 and returned with a revised scheme, refining both the building’s height and its ground-level interface to better align with Council expectations.

That process has culminated in approval for Camberwell House.

The Cera Stribley-designed development will deliver 57 residences on a 1,950 sqm site within the Camberwell Activity Centre, placing it directly within one of Melbourne’s most established retail and transport hubs.

It is expected to be one of the only new apartment developments to launch in the Junction in recent years, reinforcing the rarity of new supply in the precinct. Currently, there are just a handful of projects on the market in Camberwell, underscoring the significance of a development of this scale and positioning.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4896 project_image_fid=368544]

Camberwell House has been conceived with a clear focus on larger-format apartments. The project will offer a mix of two-, three- and four-bedroom residences, alongside a limited number of penthouses, targeting owner-occupiers seeking scale rather than volume-driven product.

The building’s vertical presence will also set it apart.

Positioned on Burke Road, the development is set to become one of the taller buildings in its immediate context, allowing for elevated outlooks across Melbourne’s CBD skyline and toward the Dandenong Ranges. In a precinct characterised by lower-scale built form, that height provides a point of differentiation, particularly for buyers seeking outlook and natural light.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4896 project_image_fid=368568]

Architecture has been led by Cera Stribley, with interiors by GOLDEN and landscape design by Florian Wild. The design approach centres on material consistency and restraint, with residences oriented to maximise light, ventilation and connection to outdoor spaces.

Full-height glazing and generous terraces form a key part of that strategy, allowing apartments to extend beyond their internal footprint and engage with the surrounding environment.

Beyond the private residences, a significant component of the project is its amenity offering.

Above Zero has positioned Camberwell House as a “complete living environment”, incorporating a full floor dedicated to resident facilities. At the centre of that is a wellness zone, including a 12.5-metre lap pool, spa, sauna and treatment spaces, alongside a gym and recovery-focused amenities.

This level of amenity is more commonly associated with inner-city developments, rather than established middle-ring suburbs like Camberwell.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4896 project_image_fid=368588]

Additional shared spaces include a private library lounge, dining and entertaining areas, and an indoor golf simulator. A self-contained guest suite has also been incorporated, allowing residents to accommodate visiting family or friends without impacting their primary living space.

The inclusion of these facilities reflects a broader shift in buyer expectations.

As more downsizers look to transition from larger family homes into apartments, there is increasing demand for developments that offer not just a residence, but a lifestyle. That includes access to wellness, social and entertaining spaces within the building itself, reducing the reliance on external amenity while still maintaining proximity to established precincts.

Camberwell House is positioned to benefit from both.

Its location places it within immediate walking distance of Camberwell Junction’s retail and dining offering, as well as public transport connections, including tram and train services. That combination of internal amenity and external convenience is central to its appeal.

<section data-scroll-anchor="false" data-testid="conversation-turn-150" data-turn="assistant" data-turn-id="request-WEB:55d7c6ac-8e6d-4881-ad49-0ed9bf66d1cc-74" dir="auto">
Jellis Craig Projects Director Stephen Bowtell is handling sales for the project and says Camberwell House offers a rare entry point into one of Melbourne’s most tightly held markets.

“Buyers are recognising that Camberwell House offers something they simply haven’t seen before in Boroondara,”&nbsp;Bowtell&nbsp;says.

“It combines a level of resident amenity and service typically associated with Melbourne’s premium inner-city developments, while being positioned right in the heart of Camberwell Junction.

“The response to the concierge offering has been particularly strong. Buyers appreciate not only the convenience, but also the sense of security and peace of mind that comes from having a dedicated presence in the building every day.

“When you combine that with the wellness facilities, the exceptional arrival experience, and panoramic views across both the CBD skyline and the Dandenong Ranges, it creates a lifestyle proposition that is genuinely unique within the local market.”
</section>

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=4896]

Staff reporter

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