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A new commercial development on Melbourne’s Lonsdale Street has been announced.
Charter Hall's Wesley Place will include three commercial office buildings, retail, culinary and community amenities.
Set for completion in 2021, the project at 130, 140 and 150 Lonsdale will also include restoration of the site’s Neo-Gothic buildings.
The overall site area is 1.1. hectares and pre-committed tenants including Vanguard and Telstra Super.
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New commercial precinct on Melbourne's Lonsdale Street announced 

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Construction has commenced on a new boutique development on Chevron Island on the Gold Coast.
Marquee Development Partners’ project Stanhill will have 61 two and three bedroom apartments on offer in the nine level building.
Marquee Development Partners CEO Mark Spedding said the project was 65% sold.
Remaining two bedroom apartments are currently priced between $539,000 and $609,000.
"We decided on a boutique mid rise building so we could offer larger apartments for owner occupiers with expansive views and first class amenities on the rooftop, and buyers have responded with enthusiasm, exceeding our pre-construction sales expectations," Spedding said. 
"With fewer neighbours, residents will be able to take full advantage of Stanhill's resort-style facilities including a stunning rooftop entertainment area, which will feature a large spa, gym, barbeque terrace, private dining room and business lounge, all with amazing views over the river and HOTA.
"The majority of enquiries to date have been locals wanting to be at the doorstep of both HOTA and Surfers Paradise, as well as investors who recognise the opportunity to capitalise on Chevron Island's  transformation in to a cultural hub, driven by  the new bridge, HOTA (the planned  $380 million Home of the Arts precinct) and retail amenity."
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Construction commences on Chevron Island project Stanhill

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A non-bank finance group is making a pitch to mortgage brokers, hoping to double its clientele in the wake of the Royal Commission and predicted change of federal government.
Chifley Securities’ Principal Dominic Lambrinos said that its current lending to developers and landowners extends to $2 billion and it works with 3,000 brokers.
Lambrinos said it wants to double the number of brokers it works with over the next year.
“There are more than 10,000 mortgage brokers across Australia and many of them will not have a viable business or career if trail commissions are phased out,” he said.
“Shorter term lending by non-banks like Chifley Securities provide upfront commissions of up to 1 per cent, with this to rate to be paid again when the loan rolls over.
Lambrinos said the company pays commissions on loan it provides, as well as settlements in up to two weeks, incentives for referrals and training.
“Mortgage brokers can make an easy transition to commercial property lending through our training &amp; support programs and gain another income flow, which sadly I expect will be required with the expected changes to trails,” he said.
“We are also seeing an explosion in the number of private investors entering the market, especially large and small foreign funds, which are keen to finance projects and prepared to work with Chifley Securities and it’s brokers to gain access to this asset class.
“This is creating a pipeline of loans which brokers can tap into by diversifying from their traditional mortgage base.”
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Non-bank group makes pitch to attract mortgage brokers

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Dexus has struck an agreement with Red Energy to supply their NSW building portfolio with renewable energy.
It claims it is Australia’s first supply-linked renewable Energy Supply Agreements (“ESA”).
Dexus, Australia’s largest office landlord, and Red Energy, which is 100% owned by Snowy Hydro, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding for a seven-year renewable contract, to commence from January 2020. 
Dexus will purchase renewable energy off-site to power the base building services of more than 40 buildings. 
This will be achieved through the procurement of renewable energy generation and presents a new lever for Dexus and the property industry to achieve net zero emissions. 
Dexus’ strategy aims to eliminate emissions from its portfolio and create value for Dexus’s customers and investors.
“This is a first for an Australian real estate investment trust and supports our ambition to achieve net zero emissions by 2030,” said David Yates, Executive General Manager for Sustainability at Dexus. 
“We have worked collaboratively with Red Energy to establish a new energy supply model which will deliver renewable energy sourced off-site. Importantly it provides long-term price certainty to insulate our customers from electricity market volatility, while driving down energy costs and supporting our collective carbon reduction goals.
“The ESA satisfies the demand from customers and investors for more reliable, environmentally responsible energy. 
“Over seven years, we expect to source more than 300 gigawatt hours (GWh) of renewable energy via this ESA, which is equivalent to the energy consumed by 38,000 households for a year.”
Paul Wall, Head of Group Sustainability and Energy at Dexus, said: “This agreement allows us to hedge a portion of our power price, providing a buffer against energy market uncertainty. The deal has been struck at below current market rates and leverages the large-scale generation certificates subsidies, resulting in a fixed price for 50% of our energy load over the next seven years. 
“This means we can pass the savings directly to our customers, while operating our buildings using a responsible, emission-free source of energy. 
“This new deal is expected to reduce the retail energy rate which we pass onto our customers through outgoings by more than 10% compared to existing contracted rates.” 
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Dexus signs renewable energy supply agreement 

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A designer-style Malvern home, with the collaboration by Hecker Guthrie designers and Eckersley Landscapers, has recently sold. 
Set on a 357 square metre block, the house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-malvern-129491866" target="_blank">13 Hunter Street</a> comes with main bedroom with open fireplace, two other bedrooms, dining room, living room, gourmet kitchen and landcaped north-facing garden.
<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/2018/11/9/malvern%202.jpg" alt="">
Other features include video intercom, solar panels, ducted air-conditioning/heating, storage shed and irrigation.
The house is situated within walking distance to Malvern Primary, Malvern station and Glenferrie Road shops.
It was sold by David Volpato and Rae Tomlinson from Marshall White Stonnington. 
The suburb's median house price sits at <a href="/developments/malvern-vic-3144">$2,575,000</a>, according to CoreLogic. 
<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/2018/11/9/malvern%203.jpg" alt="">
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Malvern three bedroom trophy home sold 

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Just 200 metres from Sorrento beach, a one story four bedroom beach house has been sold.
Located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-sorrento-129637390" target="_blank">32 Newton Avenue, Sorrento</a> the four bedroom three bathroom home fetched $2.7 million.
Set on a 794 sqm block the property is neatly contained within a white picket fence.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2018/11/30/Sorrento%201.JPG" alt="">
The home also comes with its own self contained studio which can act as a guest house.
Recently remodelled the property is open plan and "invites indoor and out door living in any season"
Featuring hydronic heating, a double garage, gas heated in-ground pool with water feature, oak floors and fireplaces the home also comes equipped with a Sonos sound system..
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2018/11/30/Sorrento%203.JPG" alt="">
The home contains three bathrooms.
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Single level Sorrento beach home sold

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Between 2017 and 2018, Sydney Metro median house prices have softened by 5.6%, whilst units have softened at a more moderate rate of 2.5%, according to the latest PRD nationwide livability report.
This reflects a consecutive decline for unit median price, which PRD have stated, presents an opportunity for buyers to break into Sydney's property market and capitalise on increasing affordability.
They have recommended that prospective houses buyers looking for affordable options should look toward Sydney’s South Western suburbs.
Particularly as there is $15.3B worth of development in the pipeline or under construction in the 2nd half 2018 there are many exciting projects that will improve Sydney’s infrastructure, attracting commercial activity and population growth in the near future.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2018/12/7/Panania.JPG" alt="">
One of the affordable and livable house hotspots that PRD highlighted is Panania (pictured above), located roughly 20.5km from the CBD.
The suburb has a median house price of $973,000 comprised of a two bedroom median price of $857,500, a three bedroom median price of $940,000 and a four plus bedroom median price of $1,005,00.
Panania is a frequent feature on the affordability and livability report located in southwest Sydney.
The report notes, "it is well-serviced by a variety of shops, public transport, schools, parks and the Western Sydney University.
"Median house price in the suburb of Panania softened by -7.9% between 2017 and 2018, which presents a perfect opportunity for buyers to capitalise on increased affordability."
"Meanwhile investors are benefiting from a low vacancy rate (1.2%) as well as strong rental yields (3.1%)," the report added.
Panania’s appeal will be further enhanced by the $7.0M^ Anderson Ave Mixed Development due to commence in the 2nd half of 2018, according to PRD.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2018/12/7/Panania%202.JPG" alt="">
For apartments however a hotspot that PRD nationwide made note of is Hurstville (pictured above).
Located roughly 13.3km from the CBD, the median unit price is $711,000.
For a one bedroom apartment the median price is $555,840, while for a two bedroom apartment the median price is $705,000.
Three plus bedroom apartments in Hurstville, positioned to the south west of the Sydney CBD, have a median price of $840,000.
The report states Hurstville is well positioned as a business hub for the surrounding areas, and boasts a Westfield shopping centre as well as schools, parks and medical facilities.
"Despite a minor annual median unit price softening of -1.3% since 2017 Hurstville remains a top performing liveable and affordable suburb, with solid rental yields of 3.8% and low vacancy rates of 1.7%."
"Residential and commercial projects valued at approximately $5.8 million in the 2nd half of 2018 will answer future demand and stimulate the local economic growth," the report concluded. 
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Sydney's south west pinpointed as affordable and liveable suburbs: PRD Nationwide

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EXPERT OBSERVATION
For the first time since 2016 the first and lowest price band of $0-$500,000 has opened to Sydney buyers, at 1.4% of the market, as shown in the latest <a href="https://www.prd.com.au/research-hub/affordable-liveable-property-guide-2nd-half-2018/" target="_blank">2018 Affordability and Livability Report</a> released by PRD nationwide.
Although this is a very marginal part of the market, this marks a more affordable Sydney.
For the first time since 2015 all the affordable and liveable suburbs in Sydney had negative annual median price growth, a sign of market cooling.
Prior to this, affordable and liveable suburbs showcased positive growth, thus, in the Livability and Affordability report it became a task of nominating suburbs with as moderate a softening as possible.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2018/12/7/PRD%20Nationwide.JPG" alt="">
In Brisbane, all affordable and liveable suburbs were in the north.
This was different to previous reports, where affordable and liveable house hotspots were found in all pockets of Brisbane (i.e. north, south, east, etc.).
None of the affordable suburbs in Hobart were able to satisfy the liveability criteria.
To ensure liveability aspects were met, the median suburb price had to be raised above that of the Hobart metro median price.
This only occurred in Hobart, which suggests the strong need to develop a strategy that addresses liveability aspects in more affordable areas of Hobart.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2018/12/7/PRD%20Nationwide%202.JPG" alt="">
Of all the capital cities, Melbourne has proven to be the most resilient market, both in terms of price growth (in comparison to Sydney) and in ease of satisfying liveability aspects in its more affordable suburbs.
Dr Diaswati (Asti) Mardiasmo National Research Manager | PRDnationwide | Colliers International
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Sydney's sub-$500,000 affordable home market opens up for Sydney buyers: PRD research

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EXPERT OBSERVER
In 2019, there will be several political and economic factors that will continue to impact Sydney’s property market.
1.       Politics to have a major influence in 2019.
 The impending NSW state and federal elections in the first half of the year will heavily impact market conditions. If history teaches us anything, it is that when it comes to elections, people tend to sit on their hands.Uncertainty about changes in policy, such as Labor’s proposal to limit negative gearing tax breaks to new investments and halve the capital gains tax, will cause an extended period of stagnation. The Federal Government also has a difficult challenge in early 2019 to implement the recommendations from the banking royal commission. It is a genuine balancing act, as the Government needs to ensure future prudence, but also ensure that people are able to easily access credit.
2.       The rise and rise of first home buyers. 
It was not that long ago that first home buyers were sidelined in the property market and denounced by some commentators for their spending habits, despite the myriad economic and political forces at play that were locking them out. In 2018 the landscape has changed: financial stimulus was introduced to assist them, and simultaneously, macroprudential measures were introduced to limit investor activity, which has led to less competition and a subsequent correction in prices. First home buyers now account for approximately 25 per cent of all property purchases across our network, and with less investor activity, I fear the State Government may consider this job done. Any removal of concessions, however, would send the market into a spin, as many first home buyers would then not be able to afford to buy, and with less investors and less owner-occupiers, who is left to purchase property? All the pieces of the puzzle are currently in place for first home buyers, and it should stay that way in 2019.
3.       Bank valuations coming in under purchase price.
As property prices continue to fall, banks will become more prudent and low-ball buyers on valuations. We are already seeing many off-the-plan apartments that were bought 12-18 months ago now worth five to 10 per cent less than the original purchase price. Anyone who is struggling to secure lending should contest the valuation. It is possible to request a second opinion, or alternatively, provide extensive comparative evidence for similar properties that have sold in the area.
4.       Rates to stay unchanged in the first half of the year.
 The Reserve Bank of Australia has left interest rates unchanged for more than two years. Stagnant wage growth and a slowing market are keeping rates down, and it is unlikely we will see a change in the first half of 2019, which is good news for property owners. Beyond that, it is very difficult to say, as a few days in politics and economics is a long time, let alone a few months.
5.       People paying down mortgages more aggressively.
 While it may not be in the first half of next year, Australia’s record-low interest rates will change. It is advisable that homeowners pay down as much debt as they can while we have this advantageous environment. Accountants and banks will also be encouraging people to pay down debts before rates rise. Paying an additional $150 a month on a $600,000 loan could save a homeowner more than $10,000<a id="LPlnk175549" name="x__ftnref1" href="https://outlook.office.com/owa/?realm=student.uts.edu.au&amp;exsvurl=1&amp;ll-cc=1033&amp;modurl=0#x__ftn1">[1]</a> – and they will pay their debt down a year faster. I encourage anyone with disposable income to make a dent in their debt while they can.
6.       Fewer auctions with clearance rates of 50%. 
Fewer people will go to auction in 2019, as they fear the embarrassment of their property passing in. Auction clearance rates are likely to hover around 50 per cent next year. However, the instant nature of the reporting of auction clearance rates is not always an accurate market barometer. Sellers need to trust the auction process and know that several properties also sell before and after the actual auction day.
7.       Rental vacancies rates to rise. 
While historically house prices and rental performance have often been diametrically opposed, the current market does not really benefit either. While apartment development has been high over the last three to five years, half of these properties were snapped up by investors. With the market becoming more competitive, renters have more choice, and therefore, landlords need to be ultra-realistic with the prices they set. It may be tempting to try to wait for the right rental price, but investors need to listen to their agent’s advice next year, as holding out when there is no other interest could mean losing a month’s rent. Investors that have entered the market without a buffer may even be forced to sell in 2019 because they may not be able to balance the books.
DOUGLAS DRISCOLL is the Starr Partners CEO
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Landlords will need to be ultra-realistic with the rents they set: Douglas Driscoll's 2019 property forecast

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The National Housing Finance and Investment Corporation (NHFIC) board has appointed Mr Nathan Dal Bon as it's inaugural Chief Executive Officer.
Mr Dal Bon was previously a Senior Commonwealth Treasury official and he led the Treasury team working extensively on the establishment of the NHFIC.
He has been NHFIC’s interim CEO since September 2018.
Mr Dal Bon has over 20 years’ experience in economic policy and advising across Government. 
He has held senior executive roles in the Commonwealth Treasury, the Department of Industry, Innovation and Science, and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
Mr Dal Bon has a Master in Public Administration from Harvard University and a Bachelor of Economics (Hons) degree from the University of Newcastle.
The NHFIC Chairman, Brendan Crotty, said “Mr Dal Bon and the Treasury team were instrumental in setting up the NHFIC and he is uniquely placed to guide the Corporation as it delivers on the Government’s objective of increasing the supply of affordable housing and reducing the cost of borrowings for the Community Housing Providers, with the benefit of these initiatives flowing through to low income tenants in the form of reduced rents.”
The NHFIC was established by the Commonwealth Government in mid-2018 and has three key functions:
1. The Affordable Housing Bond Aggregator
2. The National Housing Infrastructure Facility
3. Providing capacity building assistance to Community Housing Providers (CHPs)
The Affordable Housing Bond Aggregator will assist the growth of registered CHPs by providing cheaper and longer tenor finance.
The $1 billion National Housing Infrastructure Facility will finance housing-related infrastructure – such as roads, water and sewerage, electricity and gas – to accelerate the provision of new housing across Australia.
The NHFIC can also fund capacity-building services for CHPs, in particular assisting CHPs to develop their financial and management capability.
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The National Housing Finance and Investment Corporation appoints Nathan Dal Bon as inaugural CEO

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.

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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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