<html><body>
Some Sydney areas are managing to buck the trend of a weakening property market.
While the average clearance rate in Sydney was 48.2 per cent in August, the northern beaches proved to be the most resilient region with a rate of  63.1 per cent.
The city, the east and the lower north shore markets also bucked the trends with their clearance rates of 61.6 per cent and 61.1 per cent, respectively.
At the other end of the scale, the Central Coast registered the lowest clearance rate for the month, at 27.1 per cent. 
Indicative, a Cromer four bedroom single level house has been sold at auction for $1.675 million (pictured above).
Privately positioned well back from the street, the house at<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-cromer-129032802" target="_blank"> 47 Toronto Avenue</a> combines modern design and classic Queenslander-style.
It comes with open plan living/dining, sleek island kitchen, master wing with built in, four other bedrooms, and media restreat or second living area. 
It is close to village shops, schools, city bus and only minutes to beaches. 
 <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/2018/9/6/curl%20curl%20.jpg" alt="">
Another sale in August was a Curl Curl four bedroom house which was traded for $3.8 million (pictured above).
Designed by Gremmo Homes, the beachside house at<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-curl+curl-128689018" target="_blank"> 4A Adina Rd</a> comprises of four generous bedrooms, expansive kitchen, two separate living/lounge areas, and covered alfresco dining and BBQ area.
Additional features include a separate study or fifth bedroom, double garage with internal access and in-ground swimming pool.
<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/2018/9/6/frenchs%20forest.jpg" alt="">
A Frenchs Forest four bedroom house situated on a 700sqm of level land has been recently sold for $1.703 million (pictured above).
The modern family home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-frenchs+forest-129098766" target="_blank">10 Mimosa St</a> comes with four generous sized bedrooms, new gas kitchen, spacious lounge and dining, and covered alfresco. 
Other features include in-ground pool, ducted underfloor heating, and secured front gate. 
<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/2018/9/6/forestville%20.jpg" alt="">
A current listing is a Forestville four bedroom freestanding townhouse with a price guide of $1.25 million (pictured above). 
The three-storey townhouse at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-townhouse-nsw-forestville-129090878" target="_blank">14/24-26 Forestville Avenue</a> offers four double-sized bedrooms, extra play/study room, bright living and dining area, well-appointed kitchen and covered private courtyard. 
It is within a short distance to Forestville Primary School and local Forestville shopping centre. 
</body></html>

j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

The Northern Beaches topped Sydney region bucking trend of weak auctions this August

<html><body>
A custom built Dalkeith home with French provincial country charm has been sold for the second time in a year, and gone up in price.
Local agent Amanda Gray at Gray &amp; Co Realty secured $4.46 million for the Davies family who had paid $4.3 million last September.
It first traded for $3.87 million in 2014 when sold on a walk in basis to a Scottish couple after the building block cost $1.65 million in 2011.
The Smith's bought the home while it was being constructed by Oswald Homes.
On completion Oswald suggested a replacement home would cost around $2.5 million.
Established in 1972, Oswald Homes has been long regarded as one of the top luxury homebuilders in Perth.
<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/2018/9/10/DALKEITH%203.jpg" alt="">
Exuding elegance, the traditional family home has five bedrooms, three bathrooms, two powder rooms and a study across its three levels.
It offers 626 sqm living space on the 815 sq m block with private landscaped garden with a fully-equipped outdoor kitchen and gas-heated swimming pool with water feature.
Around 34 homes have been sold in Dalkeith this year, ranging from $1.6 million to $11 million.
<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/2018/9/10/DALKEITH%204.jpg" alt="">
</body></html>

Sought after Dalkeith home sold for the second time this year

<html><body>
A near new Utz Sanby Architects designed single-level home located within the Orara Valley on the North Coast of New South Wales is on the market with the price of $3.5 million.
It has been offered by Peter Stone and Michael Ball from Real Estate of Distinction Sawtell.
Set over a 100 acre parcel of land, the country retreat at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-acreage+semi+rural-nsw-upper+orara-128574238" target="_blank">110 North Island Loop Rd, Upper Orara</a>, is separated into two wings. One wing comprises of master bedroom, small office nook and main living area, while the other larger wing features four guest bedrooms, two bathrooms, TV room and laundry.
<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/2018/9/4/upper%20orara%203.jpg" alt="">
Other highlights include kitchen with butler's pantry, wood fire heater, views to the North and East and internally accessible large double garage. 
With its northern aspect and a mono-pitched roof, the structure is angled to ensure the house reaps the warmth of the winter sun, but also blocks out hot summer rays.
The outdoor features Sir Walter Buffalo grass, landscaped gardens and magnificent trees.
<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/2018/9/4/upper%20orara%202.jpg" alt="">
The pastures come with fencing throughout and timber cattle yards close to the roadside. A tranquil creek meanders through the property and there are two good sized dams.
The original homestead is at the front of the property. 
</body></html>

Near new Orara Valley home hit's the market

<html><body>
The Professionals Real Estate Group have had a restructure in the ways its services its 225-plus members, according to the new chief executive officer.
The management of Professionals Real Estate Group was previously split between separate divisions across Australia.
But the restructure leaves the group with one core board of directors and management team.
Recently appointed CEO David Crombie (pictured above) said the restructure would help the group focus on key areas.
"The unification of the group is the result of many years of hard work by all directors of the states to create a single powerful force in the national market,'' said Mr Crombie. 
Professionals Real Estate Group, which was founded by six independent real estate agents in 1976
With more than 225 agencies, it is among the top 10 largest real estate networks in the country.
Mr Crombie, who will split his time between Professionals offices throughout Australia, said a key priority for the group was to ensure that it continued to provide "local" service to its members.
"We will continue to have team members based in each state but those team members and the members in each state will have access to a greater level of resources and support under the new structure and technology that will be implemented."
Professionals Chairman Carl Petersen said his membership for over 35 years had been "highly rewarding both financially and in terms of business growth development.”
</body></html>

Professionals Real Estate Group restructure under new CEO

<html><body>
EXPERT OBSERVER
Property prices across Australian capital cities fell in the June quarter 2018 with the weighted average median prices decreasing by 0.8 per cent for houses and 0.3 per cent for other dwellings, according to the latest report from the Real Estate Institute of Australia.
The Real Estate Market Facts report shows the weighted average median price for houses for the eight capital cities slid to $765,098 over the quarter, with prices dropping in all capital cities except for Brisbane, Adelaide and Hobart.
The weighted average median price for other dwellings decreased to $590,935 over the quarter, with prices falling in all capital cities except for Melbourne, Brisbane, Hobart and Darwin.
Canberra had the largest fall in house prices and Adelaide had the largest decline in other dwellings. Adelaide has both the lowest median price for houses at $471,000 and the lowest median price for other dwellings at $354,167.
Over the quarter, the median rent for three-bedroom houses increased in Canberra and Darwin, remained steady in Perth and, decreased in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Hobart. The median rent for two-bedroom other dwellings increased in Canberra and Hobart, remained steady in Perth and decreased in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Darwin. Hobart had the largest increase while Brisbane had the largest decrease.
The weighted average vacancy rate for the eight capital cities fell to 2.5 per cent during the June quarter indicating a tighter rental market. Canberra has the tightest market with a vacancy rate of 0.8 per cent.
Over the past 12 months, loan numbers have decreased by 3.8 per cent across the country with declines in all states and territories except Tasmania. The largest decrease of 13.6 per cent was in Western Australia.In Sydney and Melbourne – the two cities which have had the largest price increases over the past few years – the drop in loans is attributable to APRA restrictions on investment loans and more stringent home lending criteria.
The June quarter figures reflect reports of a changing dynamic in the market, particularly in the nation’s major cities.
Malcolm Gunning is the REIA President
</body></html>

Housing prices continue to decline: Malcolm Gunning 

<html><body>
EXPERT OBSERVER
They say, “money makes the world go ‘round” and although it may seem crass and crude, it’s quite true. Take a drive through any of WA’s industrial estates – Henderson, Kewdale, Malaga, Wangara -and you’ll see the wheels of commerce turning. Look closer and you’ll see the workers that work hard all day to give precious economic security to their families.
In Australia’s biggest industry, property (bigger than mining and manufacturing combined), you’ll see people engaged in materials supply. Factories and warehouses producing tiles, beams, trusses, cabinetry and furnishings. Logistics workers get these components to site for construction which requires skilled plumbers, electricians, plasterers and a team of supervisory and administrative staff. Once a property is complete, more workers are needed, like accountants, lawyers, real-estate and leasing agents.
Every single one of these workers spends money in WA shops, buys food from our supermarkets and restaurants and pays for their kids’ education. Money indeed keeps WA moving.
For WA to grow and compete with the rest of the world we need more than just our own money circulating.
Foreign investment and exports are key factors in our success. Many of our West Australian jobs depend on an external injection of money, and the property industry is no different.
The Upper House is due to debate the Labor Government’s proposed foreign owner duty surcharge very soon – a proposed 7% surcharge on foreign purchasers of residential property in WA.
This tax is not just for rich, overseas investors, it’s for regular migrant mums and dads who want to build a home and a life in WA. Just like the many migrants from all over the world that have come to WA since its foundation and have made Perth the great City it is today.
An additional 7% impost will deter these migrants from choosing Perth. The greatest number of Asian migrants are from Singapore (China is in fifth position). With kids studying at Uni, they could just as easily choose another Australian or international city to settle.
We don’t have the issues of Sydney or Melbourne where the surcharge originated as a way to dampen demand. Our tentatively recovering property market needs support, especially in an environment of slowing demand due to tightening bank finance. 
Understandably, the McGowan Government is looking for new sources of revenue for budget repair. But with Building Approvals currently tracking at –19.4% [Source: ABS/Property Council July 2018] the timing is terrible. Also, key data indicators point to little revenue being raised in reality.
The WA budget has forecast $123million over 3 ½ years yet all industry bodies including the Property Council, REIWA and the UDIA warn that the number of transactions will fall. In fact, that’s exactly what’s happened in South Australia.
The SA budget was released last week and it demonstrates exactly what could happen if this surcharge were introduced here. The SA Government have reduced forecast tax receipts by 50%, stating “Conveyance duty forecasts also incorporate downward revisions to the Foreign Owner Surcharge in all years reflecting lower than expected collection in 2017-18 and projected lower demand from foreign buyers from 2018-19 compared to original estimates.”
Simply put, fewer property transactions equates directly to fewer jobs. This affects all workers that help make money move around the WA economy.
The Property Council calls on the Members of the Upper House to vote against this tax – for now at least. It may be needed one day in the future but now is not the time to risk West Australian jobs for little gain.
Sandra Brewer is the Executive Director of the Property Council of Australia WA
</body></html>

Charging foreign owners extra for property will cost WA jobs: Sandra Brewer

<html><body>
The Mariana Hardwick bridal shop has taken a six-year lease in South Melbourne, having previously been on Sydney Road, Brunswick, one of Melbourne's great bridal shop strips.
It is at 234 Coventry Street (pictured above), next door to restaurant Lume and opposite the new Coles building.
She's paying $100,000 a year at $260 a sqm, according to Fairfax Media.
The bridal retailer plans to transform the 387 sqm Victorian building into a new showroom with a studio and production space, according to agent Paul Pellegrino from Knight Frank who brokered the deal.
Murals by street artist Peter Seaton, who was commissioned by then landlord Gary Brill, lined the exterior of the building.
Hardwick had moved out of the long-held Brunswick Street, Fitzroy, address in 2006 into a store at 459-475 Sydney Road Brunswick. 
</body></html>

Mariana Hardwick moves bridal shop to South Melbourne

<html><body>
Fisherman's Point, an eight acre Hawkesbury River waterfront property previously used as an outdoor recreational camp, has been listed for sale.
The property, only directly accessible by boat, helicopter or seaplane, was once owned by Outward Bound Australia.
They ran a charitable camping and adventure organisation that began as a post-war mission to help boys become men.
Outward Bound sold the property in the 1970s to Knox Grammar for their camping and adventure programs.
<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/2018/9/12/hawk.jpg" alt="">
In 2000 Knox Grammar sold Fisherman's Point to London-based multi-millionaire and neighbour Ian Gowrie-Smith.
The boarding house style facilities with 26 bedrooms can accomodate up to 120 people, along with a recreation hall with full commercial kitchen.
<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/2018/9/12/ghost3.jpg" alt="">
LJ Hooker Terrigal agent Tim Andrews suggests tourism and hospitality uses including resort, health retreat or wedding venue.
He has hopes for between $4.4 million to $4.8 million for the four allotments that are being sold in one line.
</body></html>

Outward Bound Australia ghost town for sale

<html><body>
Savills have sold The George Hotel in South Melbourne.
The corner property, located opposite the South Melbourne Market, was bought by a mainland Chinese investor.
The historic inner-city pub sold on a 4.86 per cent yield for $5.2 million.
It reflected a 30 per cent capital gain in less than three years for the Tresise family whose Commercial Hospitality Group will continue to operate it under a lease agreement, which has just over four years to run plus renewal options.
The George Hotel was marketed as "an outstanding investment opportunity with significant future development upside, strong income and a blue-chip position." 
<div data-bind="html: descriptionExpandableTextArea.displayText, css: { collapsed: !descriptionExpandableTextArea.isExpanded(), animate: descriptionExpandableTextArea.animate }, element: descriptionExpandableTextArea.textElement, attr: { style: descriptionExpandableTextArea.style }">This two level freehold hotel recently came under a new 5+5+5+5 year lease that commenced this January with a current net rental of $253,146 per annum. </div>
<div data-bind="html: descriptionExpandableTextArea.displayText, css: { collapsed: !descriptionExpandableTextArea.isExpanded(), animate: descriptionExpandableTextArea.animate }, element: descriptionExpandableTextArea.textElement, attr: { style: descriptionExpandableTextArea.style }"> </div>
<div data-bind="html: descriptionExpandableTextArea.displayText, css: { collapsed: !descriptionExpandableTextArea.isExpanded(), animate: descriptionExpandableTextArea.animate }, element: descriptionExpandableTextArea.textElement, attr: { style: descriptionExpandableTextArea.style }">Having operated for over 150 years, The George Hotel is described as "a true South Melbourne institution"</div>
<div data-bind="html: descriptionExpandableTextArea.displayText, css: { collapsed: !descriptionExpandableTextArea.isExpanded(), animate: descriptionExpandableTextArea.animate }, element: descriptionExpandableTextArea.textElement, attr: { style: descriptionExpandableTextArea.style }">
 The 406 sqm holding is zoned Commercial 1.</div>
</body></html>

The George Hotel in South Melbourne sells to Chinese investor

<html><body>
Viewers will be able to interact with the most recent season of The Block New Zealand in a new way.
The season seven finale of the channel Three show, which is set to air later this month, will allow for live bidding and streaming via the show’s digital auction partner, Gavl.
The houses are to be auctioned on September 30 at the Grand Millennium in Auckland at 7pm. Real estate agency Ray White has put the homes on the market with the listings for 21, 23, 25 and 27 Frances Bryers Rd going live this week.
Pre-registered and authenticated bidders on Gavl will be able to access the livestreaming and live bidding functionality.
During the auction, Gavl representatives will be present in the auction room to announce the bids of the remote Gavl bidders. 
Co-founder of Gavl, Joel Smith, claims that on average the platform attracts 47% more viewers than traditional auctions.
“We’re thrilled that Gavl will play a role in the final stage of The Block NZ Live Auction, with the show continuing to achieve strong success among viewers,” Smith said.
“There are many benefits Gavl provide sellers at auction – including our livestreaming technology, which has just a one-second latency, and an unlimited buying pool on the day through our remote live bidding functionality. 
“Traditionally, the only way to participate in a real estate auction is to physically attend the auction or via phone, but Gavl will give New Zealanders and even overseas buyers the opportunity to watch and bid from wherever they are.”
<ul type="disc">
<li>Amy and Stu – 27 Frances Bryers Road, Hobsonville (pictured above)<a id="m_-7381544828136228593LPlnk174502" href="http://bit.ly/gavl_amystu" target="_blank" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&amp;q=http://bit.ly/gavl_amystu&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1536289365735000&amp;usg=AFQjCNGROZ3yBFh-3RWbsJjEmE2mIBlYJQ"> </a></li>
</ul>
<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/2018/9/6/23%20frances%20bryers%20rd.jpg" alt="">
<ul type="disc">
<li>Ben and Tom – 23 Frances Bryers Road, Hobsonville (pictured above)</li>
</ul>
<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/2018/9/6/21%20frances%20bryers%20rd%20.jpg" alt="">
<ul type="disc">
<li>Claire and Agni – 21 Frances Bryers Road, Hobsonville (pictured above)<a id="m_-7381544828136228593LPlnk118985" href="http://bit.ly/gavl_claireagni" target="_blank" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&amp;q=http://bit.ly/gavl_claireagni&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1536289365735000&amp;usg=AFQjCNF5BPw1BbX3KNZPq7bmQFuGbf70jw"> </a></li>
</ul>
<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/2018/9/6/25%20frances%20bryers%20rd.jpg" alt="">
<ul type="disc">
<li>Chloe and Em – 25 Frances Bryers Road, Hobsonville (pictured above)</li>
</ul>
</body></html>

The Block New Zealand brings in live online bidding for finale auctions 

An entity directed by HSN's Rafi Assouline and Rebel Property's Allen Linz has filed plans for an impressive new precinct in Woolloomooloo.

The major mixed-use development would transform a prominent William Street site into a new residential village anchored by affordable housing and a large public park.

The proposal, submitted as a State Significant Development Application, covers 164-172 and 174-194 William Street, a 6,398 sqm site between Forbes Street and Dowling Street on the southern edge of Woolloomooloo.

Designed by fjcstudio in collaboration with Bangawarra, Studio Bright and Tribe Studio Architects, the scheme would deliver 227 apartments across four residential buildings ranging in height up to 18 storeys, alongside retail space, public domain improvements and a new publicly accessible park.

<img alt="Rebel" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0eb59b7c-914a-4a5c-b849-3a56749f5e93" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-12%20at%2011.18.51%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=mxM6EEqeoLjrCiTlCzTKTvzpKuh6kSkH" />

It's another design scheme for Rebel, who took <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-rebel-property-group-takes-woolloomooloo-precinct-to-nsw-government">concept plans to the NSW Gov late last year</a>.

The latest plans will be a mix of 167 build-to-sell apartments and 60 affordable apartments, with the affordable housing component representing 15 per cent of the project's gross floor area. The apartment mix includes 12 one-bedroom, 53 two-bedroom, 89 three-bedroom apartments and 13 penthouses, while the affordable housing component would comprise 42 one-bedroom and 18 two-bedroom apartments.

<img alt="Rebel" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3b3d4553-8a8c-4af5-aa8c-519ffb1e28c6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-12%20at%2011.20.12%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=_Yb6ibN7eDnOtQjCNDK2eviORa4qzgv." />

Rebel Property is seeking to take advantage of the NSW Government's infill affordable housing bonus provisions under the Housing SEPP, which provide additional floor space and height in exchange for the delivery of affordable housing for a minimum of 15 years. The planning pathway allows a 30 per cent increase in floor space ratio and building height where 15 per cent of the development is dedicated to affordable housing.

&nbsp;

At the centre of the development is a 1,356 sqm sunlit public park designed to become a new community gathering space at the gateway to Woolloomooloo. The park would be complemented by a network of pedestrian laneways connecting William Street with the surrounding streets, improving permeability through what is currently a largely impermeable block.

<img alt="Rebel" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="257af931-a393-4007-8c6d-7219796df58d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-12%20at%2011.20.51%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=KAHy94GrhaReFsWTGDKfy39EDJ8gEEv4" />

The design team says the public domain has been heavily influenced by the site's topography and Aboriginal cultural heritage, drawing on the escarpments, gullies and landscape characteristics that historically defined the area before urbanisation. The landscape design has been developed in partnership with First Nations consultancy Bangawarra.

The project would be delivered across four separate buildings. The William Street East and William Street West buildings, designed by fjcstudio, would contain the majority of the apartments. Melbourne-based Studio Bright has designed the Forbes Street building, while Tribe Studio Architects is responsible for the Dowling Street building.

Rebel had secured approval for the concept plans late last year.

Joel Robinson

First look: HSN, Rebel, advances Woolloomooloo precinct plans

A locally heritage-listed furniture showroom on Water Street is set to become the centrepiece of a new mixed-use residential development as local developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/keylin-group">Keylin</a> seeks approval for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/lotus-on-water-street-290-water-street-fortitude-valley-qld-4006">Lotus on Water Street</a>, a 15-storey project on the Fortitude Valley side of Spring Hill.

The proposal spans 290 Water Street and 137-141 Warry Street, combining several properties into a 2,869 sqm site that sits between Fortitude Valley, Spring Hill and the rapidly evolving Victoria Park precinct. Keylin's plans would deliver 132 apartments alongside new retail, hospitality and commercial space, while retaining and repurposing the historic Brunswick Home Furnishers Showroom that fronts Water Street.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/jackson-teece">Jackson Teece</a>, Lotus on Water Street comprises a 12-storey residential tower rising above a three-storey podium and communal rooftop terrace. The development includes 76 apartments classified as multiple dwellings and a further 56 units proposed as short-term accommodation, designed to be flexibly used as either accommodation or permanent residences. The apartment mix comprises six one-bedroom, 54 two-bedroom and 16 three-bedroom homes.

<img alt="First look: Keylin unveils heritage-led Lotus on Water Street tower in Fortitude Valley" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9822bb79-6c49-49c9-95ba-319e8c8d81c3" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/fortitude%20valley%20front.png?VersionId=ioW8zbN4UVebbLetTFuv92t.HkdgfR5e" />

Residents would have access to an extensive rooftop recreation level spanning more than 1,200 sqm of communal open space. Plans include a pool, gym, sauna, infrared sauna, yoga area, library, private dining room, barbecue facilities and landscaped entertainment spaces, making the rooftop the project's largest shared amenity offering.

At street level, the proposal focuses on the adaptive reuse of the heritage buildings along Water Street, where 518 sqm of retail and commercial space is planned across shop, office and food and drink outlet uses. A permeable residential lobby would be positioned between the retained heritage buildings, creating a pedestrian connection between the historic streetscape and the new tower behind.

<img alt="First look: Keylin unveils heritage-led Lotus on Water Street tower in Fortitude Valley" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="269cf3e0-7d13-48bf-a318-05a00deb5c10" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/fortitude%20valley%20podium.png?VersionId=DLXmTCLsp6GOcLpQ0h.0z7wKCw59EhN_" />

The heritage retention strategy is central to the scheme. The development application notes that the Brunswick Home Furnishers Showroom and adjoining heritage buildings will remain, with only non-significant structures on the site earmarked for removal under a previously issued Heritage Exemption Certificate. Levels one and two of the new podium are recessed behind the heritage façades to maintain their prominence within the streetscape.

Jackson Teece has drawn inspiration from the site's manufacturing history when designing the podium. The planning documents state that the façade incorporates perforated metal screening that references the woven and rattan furniture historically produced on the site. Cascading and climbing plants are integrated throughout the podium to soften the building's presentation and screen parking levels behind. The landscape strategy also informs the project's name, Lotus on Water Street, drawing on the historic Spring Hollow waterholes that once ran through Spring Hill and the blue water lilies associated with Meeanjin, Brisbane's traditional name.

The proposal also incorporates the neighbouring property at 141 Warry Street, currently occupied by a healthcare service. The existing building would remain, with nine dedicated parking spaces allocated within the new development to support its ongoing operation. In total, Lotus on Water Street proposes 117 car spaces, including 110 resident spaces and seven visitor bays, alongside 100 bicycle spaces.

<img alt="First look: Keylin unveils heritage-led Lotus on Water Street tower in Fortitude Valley" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="70cf07bc-4fd8-4e70-92dd-be8b21c4e4f0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/fortitude%20valley%20site.png?VersionId=txlxrJImM0Sm_vTzHVKh5DDUkyL_CiiA" />

The site sits within the Spring Hill East Precinct of the Spring Hill Neighbourhood Plan and is positioned around 650 metres from both Fortitude Valley Station and Exhibition Station. It is also within walking distance of the King Street precinct, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Herston Quarter and Victoria Park, which is earmarked to become a major venue precinct ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Planning documents describe the location as a key gateway between Spring Hill and Fortitude Valley and highlight the area's increasing importance as new transport infrastructure and Olympic-related investment reshape Brisbane's inner north. The development team argues the project will contribute additional housing supply while activating a section of Water Street that has historically received less investment than other parts of the Valley.

Keylin has become increasingly active across Brisbane and southeast Queensland, assembling sites in strategic inner-city locations. They are currently selling and delivering <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/oria-spring-hill-447-gregory-terrace-spring-hill-qld-4000">Oria Spring Hill</a>, just over 140 apartments due for completion in 2027.

Keylin plans heritage-led Lotus on Water Street apartment development in Fortitude Valley

Roseville is poised for a wave of new apartment development following the NSW Government's rezoning of land around Roseville Station under its Transport Oriented Development program.

The new planning controls have unlocked significant development potential within walking distance of the station, with a number of sites expected to be amalgamated and redeveloped in the coming years as developers seek to take advantage of the increased density allowances.

One of the more restrained developments in the precinct, and set among the first to be delivered having commenced well before the recent changes, is Hyecorp's Juliet. The boutique apartment project is already well under construction and remains on track to welcome residents by the end of the year, offering a markedly different proposition to many of the larger-scale developments now likely to emerge across the suburb.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7395 project_image_fid=278194]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/juliet-roseville-64-pacific-highway-roseville-nsw-2069">Juliet</a> will comprise just&nbsp;34 one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments opposite Roseville Station. For Hyecorp, which has delivered projects across Sydney's Lower North Shore for more than three decades, Roseville presented a rare opportunity to address a growing gap in the market.

"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/roseville-nsw-2069">Roseville</a> has long been one of the North Shore's most tightly held and desirable suburbs, offering a unique combination of village charm, established greenery, excellent transport connections, and proximity to some of Sydney's best schools and lifestyle amenities," Hyecorp said.

"We recognised a growing demand from local homeowners seeking to downsize without leaving the community they have built their lives around. The location presented a rare opportunity to create homes that cater specifically to that buyer profile."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7395 project_image_fid=278196]

The six-level development has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/pbd-architects">PBD Architects</a> as a collection of residences that feel more like homes than apartments. The brief centred generous floorplans, abundant natural light, quality finishes, and strong connections to outdoor space.

PBD Architects drew inspiration from Roseville's established garden suburb character, creating a building that sits comfortably within its surroundings rather than dominating them. The architecture incorporates natural materials, soft forms, layered landscaping, expansive balconies, and generous setbacks to strengthen the connection between residents and the suburb's leafy environment.

"The focus was on designing spacious, house-like residences for discerning owner-occupiers and downsizers who wanted to remain on the North Shore without compromising on comfort, privacy, or design," PBD said.&nbsp;

"Every apartment was to feel considered, timeless, and highly functional."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7395 project_image_fid=278195]

Inside, residences feature engineered timber flooring, stone kitchen benchtops and splashbacks, integrated Fisher &amp; Paykel appliances, ducted air conditioning, and large outdoor entertaining areas designed to take advantage of district and treetop views.

Residents will also have access to a rooftop barbecue and lounge area, alongside practical amenities including parcel lockers, EV charging capability, bicycle storage, a dog wash bay, and a basement car wash facility.

The majority of purchasers so far have been local owner-occupiers from Roseville, Lindfield, Chatswood, Killara, and the broader Upper North Shore, many of whom are transitioning from larger family homes.

"Buyers are looking for spacious, house-like apartments that allow them to downsize without feeling like they are sacrificing comfort or functionality," Hyecorp noted.

"They value large kitchens, generous living areas, ample storage, quality finishes, secure parking, lift access, and low-maintenance living."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7395 project_image_fid=278204]

Juliet sits directly opposite Roseville Train Station and within walking distance of Roseville Village, while Chatswood's retail and dining precinct is only minutes away. The development is also surrounded by some of Sydney's most established schools, including Roseville College, Ravenswood, Pymble Ladies' College, and Knox Grammar, as well as nearby parklands and golf courses.

Juliet is currently more than 75 per cent sold ahead of its anticipated completion in late 2026.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=7395]

Juliet to sit quietly amid Roseville apartment boom

Sherpa Property Group has unveiled the third instalment of its Flourish series, securing full approval for the two-tower, $500 million Flourish Soleira development in Palm Beach.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-soleira-1150-1154-gold-coast-highway-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Soleira</a> will rise from a prominent site in the commercial heart of Palm Beach, the long-time home of Cash Converters and a range of local retailers.

The project will introduce a new retail and dining precinct at ground level, beneath 286 apartments.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=370959]

“We’re very committed to not only providing affordable residential offerings that are much needed in Palm Beach, but also delivering a vibrant new commercial heart that complements the extraordinary growth of the southern Gold Coast,” Sherpa Property Group founder Christie Leet said.

The development will sit under Sherpa's Flourish brand, which is aimed at providing a pathway into the beachside suburb for locals, first-home buyers and downsizers. In a move designed to assist first-home buyers entering the market, Sherpa has reserved all one and two-bedroom, one-bathroom apartments exclusively for eligible first-home buyers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=370964]

“Our vision through Flourish is to create a vibrant retail and lifestyle focal point within the Palm Beach centre zone, delivering thriving communities underpinned by lifestyle-rich locations,” Leet said.

“So far, Flourish has been an incredible success, and we hope to carry this momentum as we progress the next two Flourish projects in Palm Beach.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=371430]

Located across 1150-1164 Gold Coast Highway and 3 Sixth Avenue, the development will comprise two towers. The northern tower will deliver 154 apartments, while the southern tower will add a further 132 residences, helping address ongoing demand for new apartments in the tightly held coastal suburb.

Flourish Soleira will also feature the most extensive rooftop amenity offering ever delivered in Palm Beach.

The two towers will be connected by a skybridge, with residents gaining access to a rooftop recreation deck featuring a full-width swimming pool, hot and cold plunge pools, wellness spaces, a gymnasium, private dining facilities, massage treatment rooms, barbecue areas, a basketball court, golf simulator, indoor and outdoor dining spaces, sun lounges and extensive landscaping.

LPS Group is expected to start construction later this year.

Sherpa is already well advanced on construction of its debut Flourish project, Flourish Amargo, located just around the corner from Soleira. Meanwhile, Flourish Oasis, positioned opposite Amargo, recently commenced construction and has nearly sold out its collection of 47 apartments.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150017]

Sherpa unveils $500m mixed-use Palm Beach precinct, Flourish Soleira

Are mortgage holders set to get a reprieve from the RBA in 2026?

Big Four bank NAB believes so. They are now expecting the next move from the RBA to be a cut, rather than a hike, which they had pencilled in for August. They are unsure of the timing of the cut however, they note in their latest&nbsp;NAB Economics RBA Watch.

NAB Chief Economist, Dr Sally Auld, said recent data suggests the economy has lost momentum and the outlook for rates has shifted, noting that the broader economic backdrop has changed since earlier in the year.

“The next move in the cash rate is likely to be down, but the timing is uncertain," Dr Auld said.

"In February, growth was above trend, the economy was operating above capacity and there was uncertainty over the restrictiveness of rates. None of these conditions exist today,” she outlined.

Dr Auld said recent data pointed to softer momentum across the economy while acknowledging that at the same time, uncertainty remains a key feature of the outlook.

“Both Q1 GDP data and the NAB business survey suggest momentum in the economy has slowed, meaning that growth has likely peaked for the cycle. That said, we are cognisant there is still considerable uncertainty around the outlook, both with respect to activity and inflation.”

Dr Auld said inflation risks and labour market outcomes would be important to watch.

“On the prices side, we are still forecasting above target core inflation through to mid-2027. Margins will compress and weaker labour market outcomes are a risk.”

She said tighter financial conditions are expected to weigh on housing and activity.

“Tighter financial conditions will be reflected in a slowing in house price growth and housing credit growth. In summary, we have greater conviction that the next move in rates is down, but less conviction on the timing.”

Staff reporter

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News