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GUEST OBSERVATION
A decomposed, mummified body of a man was recently found by forensic cleaners in a Sydney apartment. The apartment’s owner is thought to have suffered from hoarding disorder, and police believe the decomposed body had been there for more than ten years.
We occasionally read stories involving people with hoarding disorder - people whose possessions pose a serious burden. Clutter might prevent them from sitting on their sofa, taking a shower, cooking a meal, or sleeping in their bed.
Despite the lack of space, they find it impossible to part with items they don’t need. Why is it so hard for them to let go of their possessions?
Loving things
As children, we use possessions to comfort ourselves when our parents are unavailable. By the time we reach adulthood, most of us have abandoned our security blankets and teddy bears. We might occasionally buy something unnecessary or hang on to a few items we no longer need.
In most cases, these few extra possessions don’t pose a problem. We store them in the closet or display them proudly on a shelf. But our stuff never creeps beyond that point. We have a few treasured objects, but we don’t rely on them to make us feel good – at least not on a regular basis.
It’s a different story for the 1.2 million Australians who meet the DSM-5 criteria for hoarding disorder. These include:
<ul>
<li>difficulty discarding items regardless of their actual value</li>
<li>a perceived need to save the items and associated distress at the idea of losing them</li>
<li>clutter that prevents using the home being used for its intended purpose.</li>
</ul>
Hoarding disorder leads to a quality of life as poor as that of people with schizophrenia. Clutter increases the risks of injury, medical conditions, and death.
A quarter to a third of Australian residential fire-related deaths are associated with hoarding disorder.
For those with hoarding disorder, possessions remind them of the past and foreshadow a potential future. They can remember their child wearing that outfit or playing with that toy. They are certain that jug will be useful some day, despite having many other jugs they have never used. They are extremely attached to their possessions for one reason or another.
Just thinking about disposing of their items makes people with hoarding disorder feel highly anxious. Their anxiety is similar to what others may feel about giving a speech or finding a spider in their shoe. Believing they can’t cope with the distress of losing their possessions, they hang on tightly. Doing so unfortunately strengthens their beliefs that their possessions are needed.
Objects as human substitutes
If children regularly use objects for comfort during times of need, why doesn’t everyone have a hoarding problem? We think it is because some people are more prone to anthropomorphism. Anthropomorphism is when an object is perceived to have human-like qualities.
Humans need to be connected physically, socially, and psychologically to other humans. This need is just as important as the need for air, water, food, and shelter. Loneliness negatively affects our health and is a risk factor for early death. Understandably, when we feel devalued or unloved, we seek out closeness. When our need isn’t met by humans, objects may serve as a substitute.
Individuals who hoard items tend to experience interpersonal difficulties, feel insecure in relationships, and believe themselves to be a burden to others. To compensate for unmet social needs, they anthropomorphise objects to feel connected.
Anthropomorphism doesn’t fully meet people’s needs, so they collect more and more objects. Stronger anthropomorphic tendencies are associated with more compulsive buying and greater acquisition of free stuff.
The current treatment approach teaches individuals how to challenge their beliefs about possessions. It also teaches them how to resist acquiring urges and how to sort, organise, and discard possessions. This approach helps only about a quarter of people who receive it.
We used to think social disconnection was a consequence of hoarding. Now, we think it may be part of the cause. At Lifeline Harbour to Hawkesbury, Macquarie University, and UNSW, we are piloting an enhanced hoarding treatment. This treatment addresses core hoarding problems as well as helping to improve impaired social connections.
<img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/97784/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1">The consequences of hoarding escalate as people get older. Without treatment, the consequences (such as fire) of hoarding disorder costs Australia an estimated A$36,880 per person, per occurrence. If we can help people feel valued and loved, they may benefit more from treatment. In turn, they may experience a desperately needed improvement in their quality of life.
Melissa Norberg, Associate Professor in Psychology, Macquarie University
Jessica Grisham, Associate Professor in Psychology, UNSW
This article was originally published on <a href="http://theconversation.com" target="_blank">The Conversation</a>. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/when-possessions-are-poor-substitutes-for-people-hoarding-disorder-and-loneliness-97784" target="_blank">original article</a>.
Photo: Clutter that sufficiently prevents the use of the living room for its original purpose. Source: A/Prof Melissa Norberg.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

When possessions are poor substitutes for people: hoarding disorder and loneliness

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Well presented and high-quality properties in Sydney’s west are still achieving relatively strong results, however less desirable and average quality stock is being discounted, according to the June update on residential prices by the valuation firm, Herron Todd White (htw).
It says western Sydney buyers have more options and aren’t willing to pay strong money for average stock.
Interest in new land releases, whether vacant land or house and land packages, remains steady, it noted, with developers continuing to stage releases to ensure demand remains relatively strong.
"This has resulted in a consistent level of demand for master-planned subdivisions," HTW suggested.
"We have noticed a number of settlement valuations for new units not meeting their off the plan prices when purchased during stronger market conditions, mostly in 2015 and 2016.
"Whilst mostly occurring for overseas buyers, this could trigger a flow of sales post-settlement due to difficulties obtaining nance and rental yields not meeting expectations thanks to high investor participation.
HTW gave an example in Parramatta with an off the plan sale in October 2014 of $672,000 and recent resale in March 2018 at for $630,000.
"Whilst not an indication of the wider Parramatta market, it does highlight that discounting does occur and if a large number of vendors have to offload property at the same time, it could lead to a market correction as new benchmarks are set.
"Market drivers to keep an eye on during the remainder of the year are interest rates, any tightening of lending criteria and property supply. Any signi cant increases to the cash rate may have flow-on effects to the home loan market, leading to the potential for more distressed sales as homeowners and investors may struggle to meet the larger repayments on highly geared mortgages.
"This has the potential for some pockets of Sydney to experience sharp decreases in values in the short term.
HTW warned any large volume of supply flooding a particular market sector combined with an overall slowdown, tougher lending criteria and possibly higher interest rates will eventually lead to a sharper slowing of the market.
"We believe this is more likely with high-density units as investor participation is higher and as densities increase markets can be supplied quickly."
HTW advised another area to keep an eye on for the remainder of the year was suburbs that allow dual occupancy development following the recent release of the NSW Government’s new Low Rise Medium Density Housing Code. 
"This will allow one and two storey dual occupancies, manor houses and terraces to be constructed under a fast track complying development approval.
"With duplex style development popular in some areas of western Sydney, this fast tracking of approvals may lead to more interest and participation in the market resulting in a boost to owners of blocks meeting the new minimum requirements," the June report suggested.
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Losses in Western Sydney OTP resales could trigger market correction

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A south-western Sydney four bedroom house has been sold for $595,000 by mortgagees. 
It was sold by Joe Bousimon from Belle Property.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-heckenberg-128304830" target="_blank">Situated at 19 Talbingo Place, Heckenberg</a>, the house comes with four bedrooms, spacious lounge room, internal laundry and oversized backyard. 
Nestled on a 652 square metres block, it is within walking distance to Mannix Park and Heckenberg Public School, and within easy reach of Liverpool CBD, as well as convenient links to M5/M7.
It was last traded for $594,000 in 2015.
The suburb's median house price sits on $649,000, according to CoreLogic.
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$1,000 gain in Heckenberg four bedroom house mortgagee sale

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Toowoomba's residential property market is stable but lacking consistency.
The Toowoomba residential property market has continued to remain steady throughout the first half of 2018 following a general decline since the peak of activity at the end of 2013, and although sales activity has been steady across the board, the market has continued to be multispeed and property specific, according to the June report form valuation firm Herron Todd White.
There has been little consistency with variations in sale prices and buyer interest across the established suburbs.
The report suggests that, the prestige market however, has been performing strongly, particularly in the eastern suburbs as has the upper end of the rural residential lifestyle market.
The median sale price has displayed some growth over the past 3 years, currently sitting at approximately $390,000 up from $375,000 in June 2015, the report noted.
"As of April 2018, there were approximately 1,740 houses and units listed for sale in postcode 4350 and with this is being near a 6 year high, it does not bode well for price growth in the short term." stated the HTW valuers
"The unit market has followed a similar trend to the housing market, with low sales volumes following the oversupply of unit product that became apparent throughout 2016."
Land sales volumes steadily increased in the 3 years between 2012 and 2015; peaking at 1,063 sales in 2015, while in 2016, 681 sales were recorded and then 677 in 2017.
"In contrast, vacancy rates across Toowoomba are approximately 2.3% as at April 2018, which is considered tight and below the balanced market level of 3%", noted the valuers at HTW.
"The Toowoomba Second Range Crossing project under construction appears to have assisted in maintaining low vacancy rates, with many workers residing in the region."
The valuing firm forecasts that the low vacancy rate and substantial infrastructure projects in the pipeline may reignite interest in Toowoomba residential property from investors although the steady market conditions currently being experienced in the residential property market are expected to continue throughout the remainder of 2018.
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Toowoomba's residential property market stable but lacking consistency: HTW 

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While Newcastle’s sporting fortunes are dwindling, the same can’t be said for the local property market.
With Sydney’s market in decline, many expected Newcastle to shortly follow, a prediction that has not yet occurred, according to the June report from valuation firm Herron Todd White.
A major rejuvenation of the CBD, a mining sector recovery and a strong tourism push are just some of the factors contributing to Newcastle’s growing economy.
Generally, with a strong local economy, the property market is strong and this is certainly the case at the moment with Newcastle.
"Even though the Sydney market is cooling off, it is still the most expensive in the country meaning investors are still attracted to Newcastle because of its size, cheaper prices and proximity to Sydney."
"These investors are still the strongest players in the local market with their demand for property still high" suggests the HTW valuers. 
There are a number of apartment blocks being built across the CBD and most of these apartments are sold off the plan as soon as they become available, with one local agency reporting that they sold an "entire block within a week", noted the report.
A recent auction in Bar Beach saw a home advertised with a price range of between $2.8 million and $3 million.
The property sold for $3.5 million at auction with eight bids amongst four registered bidders.
While this property is in Newcastle’s prestige market, agents are reporting that average homes are still not lasting long on the market and vacant land in the outer developing suburbs is still selling fast.
There is no doubt the market is still strong but there is certainly caution in the air, suggests the report.
Agents are seeing fewer numbers at open homes and the number of apartments being built in the city has some experts believing we could end up with an oversupply situation similar to that seen in some of the major metropolitan areas around the country.
Others still believe Newcastle is too directly connected to Sydney’s market for its decline not to eventually be passed on.
"It seems however at this stage that the Newcastle market does not rely as strongly on Sydney as the Knights do on Mitchell Pearce."
The valuers suggest that, "although the Knights may have crashed due to his loss, the Newcastle’s property market seems to be weathering the storm."
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Newcastle’s sporting fortunes are dwindling, but not the local property market: HTW 

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The Elms, a North Hobart Arts and Crafts mansion with views over the extensive gardens and the Derwent River has been sold for $2.05 million.
It was sold by Chris Huxtable from Fall Real Estate.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-tas-north+hobart-124209686" target="_blank">Located at 452 Elizabeth Street</a>, the interior of the 1917 mansion features dark timber panelling, grand staircase, main reception room with ceiling beams and sandstone fire.
Operating as a visitor accommodation since the mid-1990s, the property has had up to ten suites. 
<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/2018/6/13/north%20hobart%203.jpg" alt="">
Designed by renowned architect Bernard Walker and built in 1917 for Albert Flexmore as a family home, the property was then sold to the Palfreyman family in 1933.
Situated on an over 2000 sqm allotment, it's only a five-minute stroll from popular North Hobart precinct and 3km from Salamanca Place and Hobart's waterfront district.
It was last traded for $1.06 million in 2009. 
The suburb's median house price sits on $658,888, according to CoreLogic. 
 
 
 
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The Elms, North Hobart arts and crafts bed and breakfast sold

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Sydney's southern suburbs are showing mixed, but downward trending price outcomes, according to the June report from Herron Todd White.
Like Sydney in general, the southern suburbs have shown mixed results over the first part of the year, generally down overall but with some suburbs showing more resilience than others, the valuation firm advised.
Market activity had slowed and auction clearance rates are down to 61.3% from 70.9% at the same time last year
The region has shown an overall decline in dwelling values, Oatley’s 2018 median house price has increased slightly by 0.5% from 2017.
Engadine however, has shown a drop of 11.1% in its median price compared to 2017, almost nullifying the 15.2% increase it saw in the period from 2016 to 2017.
"A recent example of the declining market is a home, 27 McRaes Avenue, Penshurst (pictured above), located in a well regarded section of the suburb."
"This property sold in September 2016 for $1.5 million and sold again in May 2018 for $1.48 million, highlighting that in some areas, properties are now starting to fall back below late 2016 prices", suggested the valuation firm
27 Prestige suburbs appear to be performing better however again there have been some mixed results as market activity in this section of the market has slowed compared to mid-2017.
Burraneer has experienced a 5% drop in median sale price from 2017 while Sylvania Waters is up by 10.8% according to the June report from HTW
The report notes that, "new units are taking longer to sell with an increasing number of developers offering incentives to purchasers."
The report concludes by noting that, "an oversupply of units is still possible as a large number of new complexes reach completion over the next two years."
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Sydney's southern suburbs are showing mixed, but downward trending results: HTW

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Townsville's residential market has confidence with a positive market sentiment.
The inner city 4810 postcodes remain buoyant with inner-city projects including the Townsville Stadium and proposed waterfront precinct being positive factors.
The present market is highly suburb selective, with reasonable turnover levels in the sought after mid to inner suburbs.
But there are patchy sales in other areas and suburbs with perceived social issues, according to the June report from valuation firm Herron Todd White.
During 2018, the trending rental vacancy rate has remained in a balanced market range with the overall trend vacancy rate at just over 3%.
The report noted that, this is significantly lower than the prevailing trend in vacancy rate for the similar period of 2017 at 5.52%.
The unit market is currently steady, albeit at low volumes, with some resistance still being experienced due to the holding costs associated with unit ownership including body corporate fees and high insurance costs.
The valuers at HTW forecast that the remainder of 2018 will remain similar to what has been seen to date so far, with any changes to demand or sentiment heavily reliant on factors such as unemployment, job security and population growth.
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Patchy sometimes, but Townsville's residential market has a positive market sentiment: HTW 

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The Sunshine Coast residential property market is still performing well, according to the June report from valuation firm Herron Todd White.
The first six months of 2018 saw a slight fall in the volume of sales compared to this time last year but the main reason was the limited stock availablity.
Although general buyer activity has been good, some agents over recent weeks have begun to notice that enquiry levels have slowed with some urgency disappearing from the market
"Whether this is just a seasonal impact or some early signs of a slowing market, it's still too early to tell," the valuation firm advise.
Properties and areas that have good market appeal are still performing well with the various residential property types, existing dwellings and vacant land still outperforming the residential unit market.
The lower end of both are in demand, particularly the sub $600,000 market, the valuers noted.
Property along the coastal strip from Caloundra to Noosa Heads are as always, in demand, and well positioned good quality rural residential properties in hinterland localities have been generating good interest.
The report discusses how, "the market for property on the Sunshine Coast is still being heavily influenced by the interstate migration from the southern states as well as Brisbane buyers relocating north."
The southern end of the coast has two large small lot affordable housing estates which comprise predominantly sub $600,000 single unit dwellings.
Land continues to sell prior to titles being issued in most cases, however HTW valuers have also begun to see a decline in investor activity with the tightening of credit and investor loans by the banks really taking effect.
Further north, land is still selling well at Bli Bli and Peregian Springs although the supply of vacant land in new estates generally decreases north of the Maroochy River with limited sites available.
The improvement in the prestige and higher end properties has historically been driven by a high percentage of interstate investors from Sydney and Melbourne.
"This is especially the case in the Noosa region," it noted.
The relative affordability when comparing Sydney and Melbourne prices to those of the Sunshine Coast demonstrates pretty good value, suggests the report.
It also appears that the Sunshine Coast is pretty high on the "place to be" lists of baby boomers who have started to retire.
The next large infrastructure projects likely to give the coast another boost are the continued development within the much anticipated Maroochydore CBD as well as the Sunshine Coast Airport expansion.
The reported advised the next big game changer was the Sunshine Coast International Broadband Submarine Cable project which is still to be announced.
The report suggests, this project has the potential to make the coast into a major tech hub.
HTW valuers forecast that the Sunshine Coast residential property market will simmer along in much the same fashion as the first half of 2018 with values being good.
Net migration from the southern states is expected to continue as now it appears that the southern markets are cooling and people are selling up and moving north for lifestyle reasons.
The report also predicts that the market may be in the early stages of transitioning after several years of strong growth across all residential property markets.
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Interstate migration boosting Sunshine Coast residential property markets

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The Lismore, Casino and Kyogle residential markets remain stable, and are being primarily driven by local investors.
According to the June report from valuation firm Herron Todd White, the market segment is being driven primarily by the local market and doesn’t include many non-local investors.
Rural townships such as the Casino and Kyogle CBDs continue to remain steady with no drop in sales volume, according to the report.
The established housing sector remains steady and is the primary product purchased in the Lismore (pictured)/Casino/Kyogle shire.
The valuation firm notes that in general, there are not many new homes being sold in Casino or Kyogle, however, a high number of construction loans are ongoing for new builds in Goonellabah and Lismore and the occasional sale of a new duplex unit.
The rural residential property market located west of the Casino and Kyogle CBDs hasn’t seen much market movement lately and sales continue to remain relatively steady.
Sales in these secondary locations tend to not be as quick to market as those of the smaller residential sales that have a superior location.
Housing statistics in the Lismore region, specifically auction clearance rates, are generally good depending on the type of property in the market.
"Auctions of smaller residential properties seem to see the best results and have a steady presence in today’s market," the report said.
"The general outlook remains steady for houses in the Lismore/Casino/Kyogle shire as we move into the second half of the year", HTW suggests.
Values seem to be increasing and sale volumes remain strong.
As for units located in this area, there is not a lot of product and sales for this particular sector are thinning.
The main drivers for the Lismore/Casino/Kyogle market include retirees and people who wish to move closer to the CBD within these townships.
It is these sales that contribute to the continuation of steady market sales within this region, the valuers conclude.
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Lismore, Casino and Kyogle residential markets attracting local investors: HTW 

The Gold Coast economy has grown by 25 per cent since 2020/21 to surpass $55 billion, but perhaps the more significant story is what sits behind the headline number.

For decades, the Gold Coast has been viewed through the lens of tourism, lifestyle and population growth. The latest State of the City Report suggests that perception is increasingly out of step with reality.

Released by Invest Gold Coast, the report ranks the Gold Coast as Australia's largest non-capital city economy and, perhaps more notably, second nationally behind Sydney for Economic Complexity, a measure that assesses the diversity and sophistication of an economy.

It's a result that places the Gold Coast ahead of Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide, highlighting the extent to which the city's economic base has broadened beyond its traditional industries.

Today, the Gold Coast supports more than 350,000 jobs, is home to over 83,000 businesses and generates $19 billion in annual exports. Manufacturing now accounts for 62 per cent of international export growth, while sectors including health, education, advanced manufacturing, technology and professional services are becoming increasingly important contributors to the local economy.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=372547]

Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate said the report confirmed the city's evolution into one of Australia's most significant economies.

"The Gold Coast economy continues to grow at an incredible pace. This is no surprise to those of us who have watched the evolution up close," Mayor Tate said.

"As one of the most entrepreneurial, investment driven and opportunity focused economies in the country our ambition has been realised and possibilities are endless.

"The Gold Coast has built a reputation as the city that says yes. We say yes to investment, yes to opportunity and yes to people who want to build something.

"It's this mindset helping us drive major growth across health, advanced manufacturing, screen production, marine, technology and the knowledge economy."

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While population growth has been one of the defining stories of the past decade, the report points to a broader economic transformation taking place.

The city's knowledge economy now contributes $7.9 billion annually and supports around 31,000 jobs, while the health and wellbeing sector contributes $5.2 billion and employs more than 42,000 people. Together, the six priority sectors identified in the report account for almost $24 billion in economic output and more than 145,000 jobs.

One of the strongest examples is the Gold Coast Health and Knowledge Precinct at Southport. The 200-hectare precinct now contains more than $5 billion worth of health, education, research and innovation infrastructure and supports over 16,000 jobs.

The report also highlights the growing role of advanced manufacturing, particularly in aerospace, defence and modular construction.

Gold Coast-based Gilmour Space Technologies recently became the first Australian commercial company to attempt an orbital launch, while companies including Modscape and ModnPods are helping establish the Yatala-Stapylton corridor as one of Australia's fastest-growing advanced manufacturing hubs.

The city's entrepreneurial culture is also translating into business growth.

Since 2019/20, the number of businesses operating on the Gold Coast has increased by 22 per cent, while firms employing more than 200 people have grown by 80 per cent. The report suggests the next challenge is converting more local start-ups and medium-sized businesses into nationally significant companies.

Development activity remains another key indicator of confidence.

There are currently more than $23 billion worth of major projects underway across the Gold Coast, supported by a record 75 active cranes, a figure that now exceeds Brisbane and represents a 150 per cent increase since 2016.

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Importantly, the report notes the next phase of investment will need to extend beyond residential development.

While 93 per cent of crane activity is currently tied to housing, Invest Gold Coast argues future investment will increasingly need to focus on cultural, civic, infrastructure and industry-enabling projects that strengthen the city's long-term economic resilience.

Invest Gold Coast Chair Will Hodgman said the city was now benefiting from years of economic diversification.

"What is happening on the Gold Coast is the result of the city's economic base broadening, fuelled by industries with long-term, high-growth potential," Mr Hodgman said.

"This is no longer a secondary Australian economy, the Gold Coast is becoming a globally connected city with deeper capability across health, knowledge and creative industries, advanced manufacturing, technology and exports."

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Looking ahead, the Gold Coast's population is projected to exceed one million residents by 2046.

For a city that was once largely defined by tourism and lifestyle, the latest figures suggest the Gold Coast is becoming something more significant, one of Australia's most diverse and economically sophisticated urban economies, and increasingly one that national and international investors can no longer afford to overlook.

Joel Robinson

75 cranes, $23 billion pipeline and a $55 billion economy: Inside the Gold Coast economic boom

Ron Bakir's Homecorp has sold more than 75 per cent of the apartments in its wellness-driven Florence Residences in Surfers Paradise following its first weekend release.

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/florence-residences-24-monte-carlo-avenue-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">26-storey project on Monte Carlo Avenue</a>, which commenced construction earlier this year, has seen a flurry of buyers secure their slice of the Gold Coast's latest wellbeing-focused offering in one of the nation's most competitive property markets.

Since the pandemic, the Gold Coast's population has grown by more than 11 per cent, a rate approximately four times faster than Sydney's, driven largely by lifestyle changes and interstate migration. While buyer activity has moderated in some markets nationally, demand for newly built dwellings on the Gold Coast continues to gain momentum as purchasers increasingly prioritise lifestyle, amenity, wellbeing, liveability and long-term investment potential.

&nbsp;

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Homecorp CEO Ron Bakir says buyers today are looking for more than just a home.

"What we are seeing is a shift in how people define value in property," Bakir says.

"What attracts residents to new developments is a desire for more than just a residence. They are looking for a place that complements their lifestyle, supports their wellbeing and reflects the way they want to live into the future.

"Lifestyle, longevity, proactive health, wellbeing, connection and a sense of community are increasingly shaping purchasing decisions, particularly on the Gold Coast, where these factors continue to be a major drawcard."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150414 project_image_fid=372744]

Bakir says Homecorp is responding to this shift through an approach that places greater emphasis on design, amenity and experience working together to create places that feel considered, connected and enduring in value.

Inspired by Eastern European design, Florence Residences will comprise 120 apartments alongside a private residents-only wellness club featuring a resort-style rooftop pool, hot and cold plunge pools, a spa retreat, contemporary gymnasium, and a spacious yoga and Pilates studio.

The development will also feature a residents-only lounge with private dining facilities and a rooftop bar, premium outdoor entertaining areas, a hotel-style lobby lounge, generous bike parking, and pet-friendly amenities including a heated dog wash.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150414 project_image_fid=372742]

A limited number of apartments remain available, with an exclusive collection of four-bedroom sub-penthouses set to be released in the coming months.

Florence is one of the latest additions to Homecorp's expanding multi-billion-dollar property portfolio, which also includes plans for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/homecorp-lodges-plans-for-260-million-moroccan-bathhouse-inspired-tower-in-budds-beach">$260 million development in Budds Beach</a> tailored to the growing wellness market.

A development application has been lodged for a 27-storey, 156-residence tower at 8–10 Acacia Avenue and 25–27 Oak Avenue, featuring a residents-only Moroccan spa-inspired sanctuary.

Apartments at Florence Residences are priced from $1,249,000, with construction expected to be completed by late 2027.

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Buyers rush to Homecorp's Florence Residences as Gold Coast wellness trend gains momentum

The NSW Government has expanded its $1 billion Pre-sale Finance Guarantee program, broadening access for affordable housing providers and smaller residential developments as it seeks to accelerate housing delivery across the state.

The Minns Government says the program has already helped bring forward more than 600 homes across Sydney and regional NSW since launching in September 2025, with similar models now adopted in South Australia and Western Australia.

The latest changes, announced by Treasurer Daniel Mookhey and Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully, are designed to improve access to finance for projects that have planning approval but are struggling to secure funding.

Among the key changes is an expansion of support for community housing providers. The program will now support up to 100 per cent affordable housing projects valued at up to $30 million when delivered by not-for-profit providers, while support for larger affordable housing developments will increase for projects worth up to $80 million.

The government says the changes will help accelerate the delivery of housing for low-income workers, older people, people living with disability, and those at risk of homelessness, while reducing reliance on direct grants or subsidised loans to bridge funding gaps.

The eligibility criteria for smaller residential developments have also been broadened. The previous $5 million minimum project value threshold has been removed and replaced with a requirement that projects deliver at least four homes.

Support has also increased for projects delivering fewer than 20 homes, with the guarantee now able to cover up to 75 per cent of dwellings in a development, capped at $30 million per project.

The changes are expected to particularly benefit smaller-scale and regional developments, which often face greater challenges meeting pre-sale requirements imposed by lenders.

Treasurer Daniel Mookhey said the scheme demonstrates how government can use its balance sheet to stimulate housing supply without relying solely on taxpayer-funded grants.

"The Pre-sale Finance Guarantee shows how this Government is using its balance sheet to reduce risk and unlock private investment, enabling new homes to move from design to construction faster," Mookhey said.

"This landmark reform allows us to deliver homes for working families at a lower cost to taxpayers, while also maintaining strong financial discipline."

Planning Minister Paul Scully said the program had already proven effective in bringing stalled projects to market.

"The Pre-sale Finance Guarantee has already proven it can unlock stalled projects and accelerate housing delivery by giving lenders the confidence they need to back good developments," Scully said.

"These changes will allow more affordable housing and smaller developments to access support so more homes can be built faster where communities need them most."

Housing Minister Rose Jackson said the expansion would help community housing providers overcome financing barriers that often delay projects.

"We know community housing providers are ready to build more homes, too often they're held back by barriers to finance," Jackson said.

"Expanding the Pre-sale Finance Guarantee helps remove those barriers so more affordable homes can get off the ground sooner."

The announcement was welcomed by the Property Council of Australia, which has long advocated for measures aimed at improving project feasibility and access to finance.

Property Council NSW Executive Director Katie Stevenson described the expansion as a practical intervention that addresses one of the most immediate constraints on housing delivery.

"This is exactly the kind of practical intervention we need right now, focused on getting projects out of the ground, not just approved," Stevenson said.

"It builds on a model the Property Council has worked closely with government to develop following calls for such a scheme ahead of last year's NSW Budget, so it's great to see it being expanded."

Stevenson said the reforms would help unlock projects that are ready to proceed but have been delayed by financing challenges. However, she noted that broader feasibility issues remain a significant barrier to increasing housing supply.

"The biggest challenge in NSW housing today is delivery. Too many projects have planning approval but are simply not financially viable to proceed under current settings," she said.

Speaking at the Property Council's NSW Housing Summit, Housing Minister Rose Jackson acknowledged that feasibility and financing pressures continue to constrain housing delivery, while reaffirming the government's commitment to work with industry on solutions.

Stevenson said the government's recognition of those challenges was encouraging ahead of next week's state budget.

"It's positive to see the government clearly recognising that feasibility pressures are now a binding constraint on supply," she said.

"With the Budget just days away, the focus must be on backing delivery, making sure projects stack up, finance can flow, and more homes can move from approval to construction."

The expanded Pre-sale Finance Guarantee forms part of the NSW Government's broader housing agenda, which also includes planning reforms, the NSW Housing Pattern Book, and a series of rezonings intended to increase housing capacity across the state.

NSW expands Pre-sale Finance Guarantee to unlock more affordable and regional housing

Design-led developer-builder Lowe Living has unveiled its latest residential development, Jardin House, marking its first foray into Melbourne's blue-chip City of Boroondara.

Located a short walk from Camberwell Junction, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/jardin-house-by-lowe-living-camberwell-335-camberwell-road-camberwell-vic-3124">Jardin House</a> has been designed to appeal to affluent local downsizers and established families seeking a low-maintenance alternative to the large homes that have long defined Camberwell and surrounding suburbs.

The project will comprise a collection of two and three-bedroom apartments ranging from 92 sqm to 280 sqm, alongside a limited number of penthouse residences featuring rooftop terraces spanning more than 100 sqm, with optional private pools.

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[smartcode_project:default project_id=146717 project_image_fid=372212]

Lowe Living Co-Founder and Managing Director Tim Lowe said Camberwell represented a natural next step for the developer as it expands into some of Melbourne's most tightly held residential markets.

"Jardin House is an important project for our team as it marks the next evolution of our portfolio into different well-established blue-chip pockets of Melbourne," Lowe said.

"Camberwell, with its incredible walkability, family-led neighbourhood feel and superb access to education and transport, makes it a natural choice for us."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146717 project_image_fid=372227]

Designed by Tristan Wong Architects, with interiors by Hecker Guthrie and landscaping by Acre, the development takes inspiration from the Art Deco architecture that remains a defining feature of many of Camberwell's established streets.

A curved facade, arched openings, textured brickwork and sculpted forms reference the suburb's architectural heritage, while extensive landscaping softens the building's presence and creates a strong connection to the surrounding tree-lined streetscape.

The project will be set behind a secure gated entrance, with residents arriving through landscaped gardens designed to create a transition between the public realm and private residences.

Inside, the residences feature natural stone and timber finishes, full-height glazing, Miele appliances and generous open-plan living areas designed for long-term owner occupation.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146717 project_image_fid=372225]

While the apartments themselves have been designed to attract discerning owner-occupiers, it is the amenity offering that sets Jardin House apart from many other boutique projects currently launching across Melbourne.

The centrepiece is a 350 sqm private bathhouse curated in partnership with Aurora Spa &amp; Bathhouse founder Lyndall Mitchell.

The wellness precinct includes mineral pools, hydrotherapy experiences, a Himalayan salt room, sauna, steam room, cold plunge pools and dedicated relaxation spaces, creating what Lowe Living describes as a private wellness retreat exclusively for residents.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146717 project_image_fid=372222]

The collaboration follows Lowe Living's recent partnership with Aurora at Maison Savoy in Brighton, although Jardin House is the first project to incorporate both indoor and outdoor wellness experiences.

Emma Lowe, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Lowe Living, said wellness was becoming an increasingly important consideration for apartment buyers.

"Collaborating with Lyndall Mitchell from Aurora Spa &amp; Bathhouse for a second time is an intentional nod to creating residences that are more than just homes, but a way to enrich the lives of our residents through wellness and longevity," Lowe said.

The amenity offering is complemented by a Technogym fitness studio, residents' lounge, private dining spaces and concierge services.

The launch comes as developers increasingly target Melbourne's established eastern suburbs, where rising land values, ageing housing stock and growing downsizer demand are creating opportunities for boutique apartment projects.

Lowe said the company expects significant generational wealth transfer across suburbs such as Camberwell in coming years, creating further demand for luxury apartment living.

"Camberwell is a blue-chip suburb where homes regularly transact for multiple millions of dollars," he said.

"The generational change of wealth in these locations expected in the coming years is significant, so we see an opportunity to create exclusive residences that appeal to older families and downsizers in order to meet this demand."

Apartments at Jardin house start from $1,195,000. The project forms part of Lowe Living's near-$1 billion portfolio of new developments across Melbourne.

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Lowe Living launches Jardin House in Camberwell

As <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/north-sydney-nsw-2060">North Sydney</a> continues its transition from a commercial centre into a more layered residential and lifestyle precinct, a new generation of apartment developments is reshaping expectations around scale, amenity, and long-term liveability.

Improved transport connections through the Victoria Cross Metro, continued investment in dining and public spaces, and a constrained supply of new luxury apartments have sharpened demand for homes that combine proximity to the CBD with the privacy and outlook traditionally associated with harbourside houses.

At 177 Walker Street, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/aland">ALAND</a>’s new apartment development <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-walden-north-sydney-177-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">The Walden</a> enters the market with a distinctly residential approach to high-rise living. The 30-level tower will deliver 161 residences, ranging from one-bedroom apartments through to sub-penthouses and a full-floor penthouse, all oriented to capture uninterrupted views across Sydney Harbour, the Opera House, and out toward the Pacific Ocean.

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Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>, the project takes advantage of the site’s natural topography and elevated position above the harbour. Rather than relying on density alone, the architecture focuses on outlook, orientation, and spatial flow, with every apartment occupying a corner position to maximise natural light and cross ventilation.

Rothelowman says the site itself shaped much of the architectural response.

“The site has a long history in terms of its inevitable transformation and when we came in, we took inspiration from the idea of reestablishing a sense of the site’s natural terrain and fall. Our scheme aims to integrate with the terrain and the landscape, using the undulating site to slowly reveal glimpses and views of the harbour. The rotation of the tower off grid means every apartment has a view and is naturally cross ventilated. The building's colour palette is quintessentially Sydney, with bronze and sandstone and a luminescent green colour in the glass, making it very earthy and grounded in its location.”

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Inside the residences, the emphasis moves toward larger-format living typically associated with standalone homes. Kitchens sit at the centre of the apartments, connecting directly to open-plan dining and living areas before extending outward into expansive winter gardens and balconies. Calacatta marble, bespoke joinery, integrated appliances, and custom metal detailing are used throughout, while three distinct interior palettes, Terrace, Opera, and Harbour, allow buyers to personalise the spaces without compromising the architectural consistency of the project.

The larger residences place particular attention on separation between entertaining and private zones. In many apartments, master suites occupy the outer corners of the floorplates, allowing bedrooms to benefit from floor-to-ceiling glazing and harbour outlooks independent of the living spaces. Dressing rooms and ensuites continue the material palette through fluted detailing, freestanding baths, and layered stone finishes.

Rothelowman says the design intent centred on creating homes that feel enduring rather than transient.

“Our philosophy is all about the way people live in these spaces, and we wanted to create homes that reflect the quality of life in this unique Sydney location. The apartments showcase expansive living spaces that are generous, sophisticated, and bold, with the ability to connect with views throughout each apartment.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=353235]

A separate four-storey amenity building known as The Pavilion expands the residential offering beyond the apartments themselves. Positioned alongside the tower, the building consolidates wellness, recreation, and social spaces into a dedicated resident retreat. Facilities include a 20-metre rooftop pool and sundeck, sauna, spa, ice bath, wellness studio, gymnasium, concierge service, wine cellar, residents’ lounge, private dining spaces, and dedicated co-working areas with meeting rooms and boardroom facilities.

The amenity mix reflects the buyer profile emerging in North Sydney, where owner-occupiers and downsizers are increasingly prioritising convenience, apartment scale, and long-term usability over purely investment-driven decisions.

The Walden also represents a significant milestone for ALAND, marking the company’s first major move into Sydney’s inner-city luxury apartment market after more than two decades delivering large-scale residential communities across Greater Sydney. Founder Andrew Hrsto says the Walker Street site stood apart because of both its positioning and its rarity.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=6390]

“As a company, we had been searching for a site in one of Sydney’s blue-chip locations, spanning the Eastern Suburbs, the Sydney CBD and the North Shore, and when we had the opportunity to purchase this site, we immediately recognised that it could be something iconic.”

At launch, The Walden recorded more than $103 million in sales, with buyers drawn to the project’s harbour positioning, apartment scale, and proximity to the Metro, which now connects North Sydney to Barangaroo in three minutes and Martin Place in five.

ALAND has commenced construction, and is expecting a completion date in 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134323]

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