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A three bedroom penthouse in the Esplanade residential development on Norwest Lake in Sydney's Hills District sold for more than $3 million.
The previous sales record was $2.35 million, paid for a penthouse in the Northpoint Apartment building in October 2014.
The penthouses in the Esplanade have been dubbed vertical homes in the sky, with three-metre-high ceilings, wintergardens to enjoy the large balconies all year round and luxurious finishes.
The penthouse range is priced between $2,000,000 and $2,950,000.
Steve Grant, executive chairman, Capital Bluestone, said in the same week this record sales price was set, another three-bedroom apartment in Esplanade sold for $2.5 million.
“We’re seeing a real willingness from people in the Hills to make a lifestyle choice and opt for a low-maintenance, low-hassle way of living that comes with an apartment,” he said. 
“Over the past 30 years, we’ve built our reputation on providing high-quality developments in the Norwest area and I’m thrilled these buyers want to be a part of Esplanade and trust that we’ll deliver an enviable place to call home.
“Esplanade offers second-to-none features like an infinity pool and spa, an outdoor cinema, lush landscaped areas for socialising and relaxing, cabanas, barbecue areas and a gymnasium – so I think these buyers have recognised the rare opportunity to enjoy such a resort-like lifestyle in The Hills.
“There’s no denying there is a strong appetite for apartment living in Norwest and that’s reflected by these incredible results – people recognise a unique project and want to be at the forefront of Norwest’s transformation into a thriving urban hub.”
“The ground floor retail and dining precinct at Esplanade has been a huge drawcard as there is nothing easier than simply popping downstairs for a meal after a long day.
"We’re also finding that people are confident they’re making a good investment when they consider the Norwest Metro Station under construction is only 400 metres from Esplanade and the business park is undergoing an incredible transformation with a new shopping centre on the way.”
Two bedroom apartments available from $780,000 to $1,165,000 with three bedroom units ranging from $1,165,000 to $1,375,000. 
For more information, visit <a href="https://esplanadenorwest.com.au/" target="_blank">esplanadenorwest.com.au</a>. 
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Esplanade penthouse sales smash The Hills record

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US co-working provider WeWork’s entry into Melbourne hasn’t fazed Servcorp, which says it is a luxury brand in the flexible office ecosystem.
Servcorp is a co-working, serviced and virtual office provider.
Both Servcorp and WeWork have established themselves internationally - with locations in 54 and 36 cities, respectively, according to a media release.
Earlier this year, WeWork leased into the iconic art deco building at 401 Collins Street owned by fund manager Impact Investment Group, taking the building’s rooftop and the entire nine floors of commercial space.
Its arrival in Melbourne is part of a rising trend of co-working spaces in the city. Last year, Hub Australia opened Victoria’s largest coworking space, Hub Southern Cross, in Melbourne, spread across 3,900sqm and two floors of the historic Mail Exchange building.
Servcorp says it differentiates itself from WeWork’s hot-desking model with “limited technology”, by providing organisations with a dedicated team of in-house administration and IT professionals to ensure a smoother experience, it said.
“At Servcorp, we also recognise that networking can bore opportunities, but we go further than just providing a fun place to network. We provide the platform to make these interactions happen,” it said.
Its new Community platform (servcorpcommunity.com) allows all 35,000+ Servcorp clients across borders to engage, collaborate and network, said Servcorp’s chief operations officer Marcus Moufarrige.
“Servcorp has thrived based on the premise that a prestigious address, the right support network, backed by technology gives new businesses a leg up,” Moufarrige said.
“It’s all about first impressions and accessibility. A recognisable address backed by team and technology creates a great impression of stability, of strength and permanence,” he added.
It has a standardised technology suite including Wi-Fi, printing and telecommunications. Other features include in-house IT support; call-routing technology; global VOiP and cloud hosted services. 
A start-up can access this level of technology via Servcorp’s Virtual Office starting from $50 per month.
For start-ups and SME’s the benefit is to tap into a global infrastructure providing a platform to really compete and for large corporations, it means a seamless transition and integration with Servcorp.
Servcorp has invested USD $100 million on a global communications network and offers “super-fast internet”, “business-class printers”.
Its travelling members have access to over 155+ office buildings and their proprietary technology, with support teams at every location to give clients a seamless experience.
“We have more team members on the ground than anybody else in the industry.
“Every location has at least 2 to 5 team members (depending on size) to help clients run their day-to-day, such as answering all their phone calls so they never miss a lead, administration so they can focus on what matters most, and other secretarial services that improve the quality of their working life”, said Moufarrige.
The two companies contrast in their approach, says Servcorp. 
WeWork is known for its “pop culture”, and caters to venture capital start-up companies, which is risky and more susceptible to market downturns.
Meanwhile, Servcorp supports start-ups as well as global corporates.
Its locations are also “landmark addresses with iconic views… and state-of-the-art communications technologies”, it said.
This has allowed the brand to remain resilient and nimble in the face of a rapid increase in co-working office solutions on the market, it said.
The company welcomed WeWork’s entry into Melbourne. 
“Competition is healthy. In fact, WeWork’s entry into Australia has been great for the entire industry.
“It’s made people aware of other options to traditional real estate,” said Moufarrige.
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Servcorp unfazed by Melbourne launch of co-working provider WeWork

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Sydney's eastern suburbs prestige home auction market faces testing times.
Estate agents are concerned the top end enters the winter hibernation with a serious overload of unsold stock.
Winter traditionally sees reduced activity as buyers and agents head overseas for holidays.
The eastern suburbs has dozens of stale listings on websites and off market.
There are 12 forlorn offerings sitting on the website of the leading eastern suburbs' listers, Sotheby's International with $10 million plus hopes.
The recent $13 million plus sale of the Bellevue Hill mansion of Japanese developer Kemmori “Alex” Yasumoto and his wife Sacha to the Berger family is hoped as the icebreaker sale on the sales impasse.
Michael Pallier secured the sale of the 2000-square-metre property on Suttie Road after seven months.
But another offering, in Rose Bay has been with its Sotheby's listing agent since 2014.
Another in Vaucluse was listed in late 2015 by agent Michael Pallier.
The home at 70 Wentworth Road had an initial price guide of more than $30 million.
The five-bedroom house on more than 1400sq m of harbour front land was listed by downsizers.
“They are empty nesters, their children have grown up, left home and they’re ready to pass the baton on to next person,” Pallier said at the time of 2015 listing, adding there had been interest from both local and overseas buyers which had buoyed hopes it would sell over the before the 2016 New Year.
“That pocket along there — there’s only a limited number of those prized, deep water front houses and they rarely come onto the market.”
But it was still there when the local paper advised Pallier hasn’t inked a deal yet in February this year, but noted he advised the $33 million five-bedroom waterfront abode at 70 Wentworth Rd had been particularly popular with Chinese buyers here for the Chinese New Year celebrations.
“They dream of being able to fish from the front garden or jetty,” he said.
Pallier was described in the spiel as a "listings machine" by his wife, Lu Lu who said she brings the buyers.
Pallier described this year’s Chinese New Year as "the strongest we’ve ever seen” in terms of inquiry from Chinese buyers and inspections.
But rival agents suggest the level of unsold stock pitched at the Chinese buyer was a sign of trouble in the market.
It is not just harbourside as last October a Tamarama Marine Drive, Tamarama building block was listed by Marco Rossi, chairman and founder of the construction company Built.
There were $15 million expectations for the property Rossi bought back in 2007 for $11 million through the Blacket Agency, setting a record for the suburb at the time.
He demolished the existing building and excavated at a cost of around $1 million.
Plans for the five bedroom home include an eight-car garage and a lift from the street frontage are estimated to cost another $7 million.
They were designed by internationally renowned architect Wallace E. Cunningham.
In March the private auction for the blue blood Hordern family's longheld Bellevue Hill trophy home didn't go ahead.
The Ginaghulla Road home was set for a private auction through Sydney Sotheby's James McCowan, but was pulled and remains for sale.
Heritage-listed, the iconic eight bedroom home was built as a wedding gift to June Baillieu and Samuel Hordern, who united two of Australia's most prominent families.
One of Sydney's most famed architects Professor Leslie Wilkinson was commissioned to design the home some 80 years ago.
The home, still etched with the Hordern family coat of arms, is set behind a walled entry with a forecourt in a church-style.
Another unsold offering is the redundant Point Piper home of BRW Rich Lister Paul Lederer and his wife Eva which was listed last December with $20 million hopes.
The Wyuna Road property was designed by architect John Suttor and purchased by the Lederers in 1992 for $2.8 million from businessman Charles Scarf and his wife Maria.
While the $10 million plus market appears stalled, valuers HTW recently noted the Sydney prestige property market, generally considered to be properties above $3 million, has continued its strong performance into 2017.
It pinpointed Bellevue Hill in Sydney’s east has having a total of 70 dwelling sales in the past 12 months with a median price as at April 2017 of $4.777 million.
HTW noted factors which have been driving the prestige market included a limited supply of quality stock coming on to the market and a sustained period of high auction clearance rates in prestige suburbs.
Savills recently noted prices in Sydney’s luxury eastern suburbs markets continued to increase in the first quarter of 2017, "albeit at a slower rate than seen across Greater Sydney."
The luxury property market increased by 1.2 percent over the three months to March 2017, taking annual growth to 8 percent.
This compares to a quarterly and annual growth of 5 percent and 18.9 percent respectively for Greater Sydney, according to Corelogic.
Savills says this outperformance was partly due to the price differential.
"The median price of properties in the luxury index is over $7 million compared to $795,000 across the wider Sydney market," it noted.
"The luxury eastern suburbs markets are less dependent on affordability - instead, the market is driven by global flows of wealth and a supply versus demand balance," Savills International head of research Sophie Chick said.
Savills calculated across the luxury market in the eastern suburbs the average price per square metre (internal and external) is $16,600.
For a property on the waterfront, that increases to $24,800, a 50 percent premium.
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Sydney's eastern suburbs prestige market enters winter with overpriced oversupply

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A two bedroom apartment in one of Sydney’s tightly-held apartment blocks sold for $8.715 million - making it Sydney’s most expensive weekend auction sale.
Located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-nsw-sydney-125351338" target="_blank">2502/2 Philip St</a>, the property has views of Circular Quay, Botanic Gardens and North Head.
It was last sold in 2009 for $7 million and before that in 1998 for $4 million.
It had been partially refurbished with potential for further enhancements with an interior size of 253 sqm.
<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/2017/05/28/2502_2%20Phillip%20Street-2.jpg" alt="">
With a northern perspective there is the possibility of a third bedroom alongside open plan entertainment area.
Other features includes wraparound balcony and double garage.
The property was sold through Morton agents Ettiene West and Laura Lloyd-Cairns.
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Two bedroom Circular Quay, Sydney apartment fetches $8.715 million

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A four bedroom house at Canterbury has been sold for $4.75 million making it Melbourne’s most expensive weekend auction sale.
Located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-canterbury-125355394" target="_blank">42 Parlington Street</a>, the 55 sqm property is located opposite Norway Reserve and has a northern aspect.
It last sold in 2010 for $3.15 million and the block of land was sold in 1994 for $435,000 with the house built in 1996.
It sits on a 967 sqm of landscaped garden featuring a swimming pool and a terrace.
Reception rooms complement the entertaining areas with a north-facing billiards room with bar and poolside bathroom that leads out to the garden.
It also has an open-plan living and dining room with a gas pebbled fireplace while the kitchen has Gaggenau appliances.
<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/2017/05/28/42%20Parlington%20Street-2.jpg" alt="">
The main bedroom features a dressing room, balcony and marble spa ensuite along with three other bedrooms that have a bathroom and retreat/study with balcony.
Other features includes double garage and 1000 bottle wine cellar.
Close proximity to public transport, Canterbury and Camberwell shopping centres and cafes.
The property was offered through Kay and Burton agents Zoe Ho and Sam Wilkinson.
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Canterbury four bedroom house sold for $4.75 million

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The former Collingwood ruckman Josh Fraser failed to sell his Hawthorn home at weekend auction.
Despite competition between two bidders, <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-hawthorn-125302466" target="_blank">the three-bedroom house </a>(above) passed in at $1.87 million after the slow auction kicked off at $1.7 million.
The reserve was $1.975 million, with later negotiations seeing the top offer increased to $1.885 million, the agent told The Herald Sun.
Baltic pine floorboards and an exposed brick open fireplace were design features.
Auctioneer Anton Zhouk said Fraser had updated the bathroom in 2007 and Fraser was looking to upsize in the local area with wife Kylie Sutcliffe and their two children.
Fraser, currently the development coach at Cartlon Football Club, spent $610,000 on the classic Victorian home in 2002 when it was bought from then team mate, Nathan Buckley who had paid $390,500 three years earlier.
The top weekend sale across the nation was a two bedroom apartment in one of Sydney’s tightly-held apartment blocks that sold for $8.715 million.
Located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-nsw-sydney-125351338" target="_blank">2502/2 Philip St</a>, (below) The Quay offering sold to the neighbours, according to the Sunday Telegraph.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/05/28/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-29%20at%208.40.29%20AM.png" alt="">
It was $965,000 above reserve with through Ettiene West of Morton advising four of the 10 registered bidders got to participate.
The 25th floor apartment that overlooks Circular Quay and the Botanic Gardens last sold in 2009 for $7 million and in 1998 for $4 million.
The 253 sqm space had been partially refurbished.
A villa unit at Sunshine in Melbourne sold for $245,000 to rank as the nation's cheapest weekend auction sale.
Located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-unit-vic-sunshine-124099310" target="_blank">4/136-140 Wright Street</a>, (below) the one bedder offered through Douglas Kay Real Estate has been a $250 a week rental until November.
<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/2017/05/28/4_136-140%20Wright%20Street.jpg" alt="">
The neighbouring one bedroom villa had sold two months ago at $242,000.
The national weekend preliminary auction clearance rate remains strong despite last autumn auction volumes increasing marginally, according to CoreLogic.
The property data firm says that Melbourne had the highest preliminary clearance rate at 77.3 percent, one of four capitals with success rates in the 70s.
The auction activity across the capital cities increased slightly this week, up from 2,824 last week to 2,850 this week, while this time last year auction volumes were lower, with 2,480 homes taken to auction across the combined capital cities.
This week’s preliminary average clearance rate across the combined capitals was 74.6 percent, increasing from 73.1 percent over the previous week and up from 67.7 percent one year ago.
There were 1,350 Melbourne auctions this week, making it the busiest capital city. Across the 1,155 reported results, 77.3 percent were successful this weekend.
The number of auctions held and the clearance rate across Melbourne this week were very similar to last week, when 1,326 auctions were held and a clearance rate of 77.9 percent was recorded.
"Interestingly, the clearance rate in Melbourne is yet to fall below 75 percent so far this year," CoreLogic auction analyst Kevin Brogan said. 
The weekend's strongest performing Melbourne sub-region was the Outer East with 88.8 percent of auctions clearing.
Melbourne's top sale was a four bedroom house at Canterbury at $4.75 million.
The 1996-built <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-canterbury-125355394" target="_blank">Parlington Street</a> (below) offering, last sold in 2010 for $3.15 million, sits on a 967 sqm of landscaped gardens with pool.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/05/28/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-29%20at%208.42.42%20AM.png" alt="">
Some 1,086 Sydney homes were auctioned over the past week with preliminary results showing 76.2 percent were successful, increasing from 74 percent last week across 1,075 auctions.
One year ago, 811 auctions were held across Sydney and a clearance rate of 73.2 percent was recorded.
Ryde recorded the strongest Sydney clearance rate of 90.9 percent across 46 auctions, followed by Sydney's inner West at 88 percent.
There were 159 Brisbane homes taken to auction this week, with 109 results reported so far. The top sale was when Ray White sold a four bedroom house at Spring Hill for $1.452 million.
Located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-spring+hill-125367634" target="_blank">429 Gregory Terrace</a>, (below) the three level property had been renovated since last sold.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/05/28/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-29%20at%208.43.50%20AM.png" alt="">
Brisbane's preliminary clearance rate was 56 percent, up from 46.3 percent last week and stronger than one year ago, when 41.7 percent of the 192 properties taken to auction were successful.
Adelaide recorded a clearance rate of 54.9 percent across 111 auctions this week, down from 62.9 percent across 116 auctions last week.<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/05/28/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-28%20at%2010.40.34%20am.jpg" target="_blank"> </a>
At the same time last year, 125 Adelaide homes were taken to auction, with 52.6 percent recording a successful result.
In Perth, 46 auctions were held this week, and of the 14 reported results, 71.4 percent were successful.
Last week, 50 auctions were held and the clearance rate was a lower 35.3 percent.
This time last year, 58 auctions were held and a clearance rate of 30.6 percent was recorded.
Canberra’s clearance rate of 75.9 percent across 93 auctions, up from the previous week, when 83 auctions were held and a clearance rate of 74.4 percent was secured.
Over the same weekend last year, the clearance rate was 70.5 percent when 109 auctions were held.
A six bedroom 1961 Red Hill house sold for $1.612 million was the top sale.
Located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-act-red+hill-125325626" target="_blank">23 Scarborough Street</a>, (below) the 1297 sqm property has retained much of its original features.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/05/28/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-29%20at%208.44.49%20AM.png" alt="">
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Apartments ranged between $240,000 and $8.7 million at weekend auctions

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Pimpama in Queensland has been pinpointed as Australia's number one housing hotspot, based on its performance during 2015/16.
It is a suburb in the northern part of the City of Gold Coast, located on the Pacific Motorway 30 kilometres north of Surfers Paradise.
In second place was Sydney's Cobbitty-Leppington area, followed by Palmerston-South in the Northern Territory, according to HIA's latest Population &amp; Residential Building Hotspots 2017 report released on Sunday.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/05/28/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-29%20at%208.47.43%20AM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/05/28/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-29%20at%208.47.43%20AM.png" alt="">
Population in these areas grew by more than the 1.4 percent national average during 2015/16 and had at least $150 million worth of residential building approved, HIA said. 
Palmerston-South in the NT in third place in the national Top 20. Nine of the top 20 hotspots are located in New South Wales. 
“With 2016 representing a record year for new home building activity across Australia, the housing industry has been supporting economic activity in localities up and down the country. The good news on housing is not confined to the major capital cities – today’s report shows that regional Australia is also peppered with housing Hotspots,” commented HIA Senior Economist Shane Garrett. 
“In terms of its economic contribution, the housing industry is truly unique. Today’s report identifies 86 separate areas in every state and territory across Australia where residential building activity is acting as the engine of economic activity, employment and development. Small businesses are particular beneficiaries of housing activity,” concluded Shane Garrett. 
Nationally, an area qualifies as a Hotspot if its population grew by more than the 1.4 percent national average during 2015/16 and at least $150 million worth of residential building was approved during the year.
Pimpama's latest residential development is Halcyon Greens, a $300 million masterplanned community for over 50s.
 
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Gold Coast's Pimpama pinpointed as Australia's home building hotspot by HIA 

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The weekend preliminary auction clearance rate remains strong despite last autumn auction volumes increasing marginally, according to CoreLogic.
The property data firm says that Melbourne had the highest preliminary clearance rate at 77.3 percent.
The amount of auction activity across the capital cities increased slightly this week, up from 2,824 last week to 2,850 this week, while this time last year auction volumes were lower, with 2,480 homes taken to auction across the combined capital cities.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/05/28/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-28%20at%2010.39.51%20am.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<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/2017/05/28/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-28%20at%2010.39.51%20am.jpg" alt="">
This week’s preliminary weighted average clearance rate across the combined capitals was 74.6 percent, increasing from 73.1 percent over the previous week and up from 67.7 percent one year ago.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/05/28/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-28%20at%2010.39.59%20am.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<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/2017/05/28/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-28%20at%2010.39.59%20am.jpg" alt="">
Melbourne saw the highest preliminary clearance rate across the cities at 77.3 percent, down slightly from last week.
Sydney's clearance rates increased week-on week though Adelaide and Tasmania saw clearance rates fall.
There were 1,350 Melbourne auctions this week, making it the busiest capital city for auctions. Across the 1,155 reported results, 77.3 per cent were successful this weekend.
The number of auctions held and the clearance rate across Melbourne this week were very similar to last week, when 1,326 auctions were held and a clearance rate of 77.9 percent was recorded.
Interestingly, the clearance rate in Melbourne is yet to fall below 75.0 percent so far this year.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/05/28/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-28%20at%2010.40.08%20am.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<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/2017/05/28/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-28%20at%2010.40.08%20am.jpg" alt="">
This week’s strongest performing Melbourne sub-region was the Outer East with 88.8 percent of auctions clearing.
This week, 1,086 Sydney homes were auctioned and preliminary results show that 76.2 percent were successful, increasing from 74.0 percent last week across 1,075 auctions.
One year ago, 811 auctions were held across Sydney and a clearance rate of 73.2 percent was recorded.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/05/28/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-28%20at%2010.40.16%20am.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<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/2017/05/28/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-28%20at%2010.40.16%20am.jpg" alt="">
Ryde recorded the strongest Sydney clearance rate of 90.9 percent across 46 auctions, followed by Sydney's Inner West at 88 percent.
There were 159 Brisbane homes taken to auction this week, with 109 results reported so far.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/05/28/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-28%20at%2010.40.26%20am.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<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/2017/05/28/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-28%20at%2010.40.26%20am.jpg" alt="">
The preliminary clearance rate for the city is 56 percent, up from 46.3 percent last week and stronger than one year ago, when 41.7 percent of the 192 properties taken to auction were successful.
Adelaide recorded a clearance rate of 54.9 percent across 111 auctions this week, down from 62.9 percent across 116 auctions last week.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/05/28/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-28%20at%2010.40.34%20am.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<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/2017/05/28/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-28%20at%2010.40.34%20am.jpg" alt="">
At the same time last year, 125 Adelaide homes were taken to auction, with 52.6 percent recording a successful result.
In Perth, 46 auctions were held this week, and of the 14 reported results, 71.4 percent were successful.
Last week, 50 auctions were held and the clearance rate was a lower 35.3 percent.
This time last year, 58 auctions were held and a clearance rate of 30.6 percent was recorded.
Canberra’s clearance rate of 75.9 percent across 93 auctions is up from the previous week, when 83 auctions were held and a clearance rate of 74.4 percent was recorded.
Over the same week last year, the clearance rate was a lower 70.5 percent, and 109 auctions were held.
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Late autumn auction clearance rate remain strong: CoreLogic

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Abingdon Station, a beef cattle holding at Gundagai, has been listed for sale.
Located at 1609 Nangus Road, the 2,918 hectare property is a large scale signature agricultural holding.
It is centrally located to take advantage of livestock markets, agricultural and business services.
Wagga Wagga is 45 minutes away while Canberra is 2 hours and Sydney 3.5 hours.
Gary Williamson has managed Abingdon Station for the past 16 years.
The Robinson Family owned it before being sold at auction to the McKinney family in 1927.
Then in 2001, Paul Ferry and his great friend in America, Jake Wood purchased Abingdon from Joe McKinney.
In August 2002 Abingdon West was purchased and in September 2004 Abingdon East was acquired.
Under the stewardship of Paul Ferry and the management of Gary Williamson, Abingdon Station has emerged as a highly regarded and well renowned livestock operation which is equally suited to both cattle or sheep.
Featuring 5.5 kilometre of frontage to the Murrumbidgee River, it has a 711 ml irrigation licences with a Centre Pivot Irrigator, creeks, bores and 48 dams.
A six bedroom 1890 double brick homestead has been extensively renovated.
<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/2017/05/26/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-26%20at%2010.18.03%20am.jpg" alt="">
There is also a five bedroom managers residence.
<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/2017/05/26/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-26%20at%2010.29.32%20am.jpg" alt="">
The property is offered through Jim Saunderson Elders agent Abb McAlister,Webster Nolan Real Estate agent David Nolan and DibbsBarker agent David Sharpe.
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Gundagai beef cattle holding, Abingdon Station, listed for sale

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The Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA) has announced it is once more taking in new investor refinancing.
It had put the brakes on investor lending last February.
The bank will now accept new refinance applications for investment home loans with principle and interest repayments.
“As Australia’s largest lender, Commonwealth Bank is committed to meeting our customers’ needs as well as ensuring we continue to meet our regulatory requirements. 
“We continuously review and monitor our loan portfolio across all segments, including investor home lending,” a CBA spokesperson told Australian Broker.
“These changes follow APRA’s announcement in March for banks to reduce the number of interest only home loans, and are aimed at encouraging customers to select principal and interest, where appropriate, to help them own their home faster.”
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CommBank reopens property investor refinancing

A trio of Queensland property groups have unveiled plans for a $300 million mixed-use redevelopment of the former Noosa Bowls Club site, a proposal that would deliver more than 200 new homes in one of the Sunshine Coast's most supply-constrained markets.

Kilter Property, Frank Developments and Calile Malouf Investments are behind the plans for the 1.8-hectare site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/99-noosa-drive-noosa-heads-qld-4567">99 Noosa Drive</a>, which would transform the long-vacant site into a new residential precinct featuring 208 apartments, retail, hospitality and public space.

The proposal comes as Noosa continues to grapple with housing affordability and a shortage of permanent accommodation, particularly for key workers. The site's location in Noosa Junction, close to shops, public transport and employment, aligns with the direction of Noosa Council's Housing Strategy, which encourages higher-density housing within established activity centres rather than continued urban expansion.

The draft plans include 48 affordable-by-design apartments and 48 rooming accommodation units aimed at key workers. Around 2,000 sqm of ground-floor retail and food and beverage space would activate the street frontage, alongside a new public town square and landscaped open space.

<img alt="Noosa" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2dd02f53-1360-4e51-801e-bfd61a6c980e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-26%20at%208.44.34%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=x1iNs3BSMN6Jy7YUwaBZMHRrrKX2hMpy" />

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Frank Developments Founder and Director Frank Licastro said the development would continue the company's focus on architecturally-led residential projects while addressing one of the region's biggest challenges.

"Not only will this project exude a sense of luxury, it will also enhance not only the built environment but also the surrounding community," Licastro said.

"Noosa's success relies on the people who live and work here. Providing well-designed accommodation for key workers is critical to supporting the local economy and ensuring the Shire can continue to thrive."

Kilter Property Co-Founder Huw Williams said the focus was on delivering additional permanent housing while creating a mixed-use destination that benefits both residents and the wider community.

"Our focus is on delivering a well-considered mixed-use project that provides more permanent housing options, supports local workers and businesses, and delivers an exceptional product for the local market," Williams said.

"The redevelopment vision aligns with the long-term evolution of Noosa Junction as a vibrant activity centre, creating a destination that enhances the area's character while delivering significant economic and community benefits."

Calile Malouf Investments, best known for its role in Brisbane's James Street precinct and The Calile Hotel, will bring its place-making experience to the project. The company recently commenced construction on The Calile Noosa hotel and says the residential development will complement its growing investment in the region.

CMI Director Cal Malouf said the aim was to create a walkable precinct combining housing, retail and hospitality while remaining true to Noosa's character.

"We see a similar opportunity in Noosa to deliver a vibrant, walkable destination that combines exceptional housing, hospitality and retail in one integrated project," Malouf said.

Brisbane-based Cavill Architects has been appointed to design the project.

Joel Robinson

Noosa Bowls Club to be redeveloped into mixed-use apartment precinct

One of Brisbane's last major riverfront redevelopment opportunities has taken a significant step forward, with Lendlease selected as the Queensland Government's preferred development partner for the former Visy site in South Brisbane.

The seven-hectare industrial site, positioned between South Bank and West End and 1.3 kilometres from the Brisbane CBD, will be transformed into a mixed-use precinct expected to deliver more than 4,000 new homes alongside extensive public open space and riverfront parkland.

The project is one of the largest urban renewal opportunities currently planned in Brisbane and is expected to play a key role in accommodating the city's growing population ahead of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Plans for the precinct include a network of riverfront promenades and boardwalks, new public plazas, parkland, amphitheatre-style gathering spaces and shared pedestrian and cycling links designed to reconnect the long-isolated site with the Brisbane River.

The Queensland Government is targeting delivery of the first homes and key public spaces before the 2032 Games, allowing the precinct to begin contributing new housing and public amenity well before the broader masterplan is complete.

The redevelopment is also expected to support more than 3,000 jobs across planning, construction and ongoing operations.

For Lendlease, the appointment adds another major urban regeneration project to its Queensland portfolio. The developer has operated in the state for more than 70 years and has delivered a number of large-scale mixed-use precincts in partnership with government.

Lendlease Development CEO Claire Johnston said the project represented one of Brisbane's most significant redevelopment opportunities.

"The transformation of the former Visy site represents a rare opportunity to reimagine one of Brisbane's most significant riverfront locations, deliver thousands of much-needed homes, and create long-term legacy," Johnston said.

"In partnership with the Queensland Government, we have the opportunity to create a new riverside destination that will help shape Brisbane's growth and how people experience the city for decades to come.

"This is exactly the type of large-scale, city-shaping development that will provide lasting benefits for Queensland, bringing together housing, jobs and world-class public spaces."

Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jarrod Bleijie said the riverfront transformation would deliver a thriving new community precinct.

“The Crisafulli Government is delivering this golden opportunity to unlock a riverfront jewel for all Queenslanders,” Deputy Premier Bleijie said.

“This is a once-in-a-generation moment to reshape a significant slice of Brisbane and deliver lasting benefits – thousands of new homes, and public spaces for all Queenslanders to enjoy well beyond the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games – unlike Labor’s plan which would have delivered zero benefits and zero new homes.

“Queensland is well and truly open for business and through partnership with the private sector, we are accelerating delivery while ensuring strong housing, community and economic outcomes."

Early works on the precinct are expected to commence in April 2027.

Lendlease selected to deliver transformative South Brisbane riverfront precinct

Eddy Haddad's <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/level-33">Level 33</a> is levelling up its approved Wollongong development, as the coastal city south of Sydney continues to prove popular in the high-density development space.

Level 33, a longtime developer in the Wollongong area, has gone through the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority to upsize its approved two-tower development on the corner of Crown Street and Gladstone Avenue, just 100 metres from Wollongong Station.

The developer currently has approval for 252 apartments across two buildings rising to 19 storeys. It is now seeking approval for 33 and 38-storey towers that would deliver 467 apartments, including 67 affordable homes.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bka-architecture">BKA Architecture</a>, the development would comprise apartments above a three-level podium with around 1,100 sqm of retail space, along with basement parking for 448 vehicles.

According to the Urban Design Report by BKA, the proposal has the capacity to "reinforce the precinct's identity by strengthening links between health, education, and transport services, while also contributing to Wollongong's ongoing evolution as a key regional centre."

Wollongong is somewhat in vogue. Between Level 33 and Urban Property Group, the two developers have several thousand apartments planned across the city.

Level 33 is currently delivering Easterly Wollongong, one of its most boutique projects to date with just 21 high-end apartments, as well as Atchison &amp; Kenny, a 329-apartment development due for completion later this year.

The developer plans to redevelop the 13,088 sqm WIN Grand megasite into <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/crown-square-216-238-keira-street-wollongong-nsw-2500">Crown Square</a>, a new $500 million precinct with nearly 600 apartments. It also has more than 900 apartments planned for the former Bunnings Warehouse site at the intersection of Gipps and Flinders streets.

Urban Property Group is also playing a major role in the city's transformation. Its five-tower Keira Place precinct will deliver more than 800 homes, and it has recently lodged plans for a further 300 apartments near Wollongong Station.

First look: Level 33 upsizes Wollongong apartment towers

Just a week after filing plans for the final stage of its major Keira Place masterplan, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> has unveiled another significant housing proposal in Wollongong, this time targeting a prominent site opposite North Wollongong Station.

The developer has lodged a State Significant Development Application for a 38-storey mixed-use tower at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/4-4a-flinders-street-north-wollongong-nsw-2500">4-4A Flinders Street</a>, around one kilometre north of the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/keira-place-wollongong-120-122-smith-street-wollongong-nsw-2500">Keira Place precinct</a> currently taking shape on the edge of the CBD.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group plans 38-storey North Wollongong tower as Keira Place expansion gathers pace" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2b6428f1-6405-4038-8476-897de440e90d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/flinders%20podium.png?VersionId=QLqEvK0OuCEwRC47oHNftrw2B1YqaHF8" />

Designed by Studio.SC, the proposal comprises a 38-storey mixed-use development containing 303 apartments, including 45 affordable housing units, alongside 174 co-living residences. The scheme also includes ground-floor retail space, extensive landscaping and public domain improvements.

Studio.SC noted in the proposal it "outlines a vision for a landmark transit-oriented mixed-use development centred around North Wollongong Station, designed to support the city’s future growth while responding to the NSW Government’s housing and planning reforms."

The architecture firm said the proposal responds to the opportunities and constraints shaping future growth within the 400-metre catchment of the station and represents "a coordinated and future-focused approach to urban intensification, contributing to the long-term evolution of North Wollongong as a connected, walkable and high-density station precinct."

The site occupies a strategic corner bounded by Flinders Street, Station Street, Stafford Street and the Princes Highway, directly opposite North Wollongong Station.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group plans 38-storey North Wollongong tower as Keira Place expansion gathers pace" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7863adad-1f71-4022-b850-f44b252738fd" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/flinders%20podium%20a.png?VersionId=WsU7av0g8_8R2tGHWxgHeFSlhu7yeY1V" />

The proposal follows Urban Property Group's recent submission for the second and final stage of Keira Place, which would deliver a further three buildings comprising 657 homes opposite Beaton Park. It builds on the first stage, which features 150 apartments across two towers and recently commenced construction.

Urban Property Group CEO Patrick Elias said breaking ground on the first stage marked a significant milestone for Wollongong and reflected the developer's long-term commitment to regional cities.

"Today's groundbreaking is about turning approvals into homes and moving quickly to deliver much-needed housing in Wollongong's city centre," Elias said.

"Keira Place will provide a diverse mix of homes close to jobs, transport and services, while setting a high benchmark for quality, durability and consumer protection."

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/urban-property-group-unveils-trio-of-towers-for-next-stage-of-new-wollongong-precinct-keira-place">Urban Property Group unveils trio of towers for next stage of new Wollongong precinct, Keira Place</a>

First look: Urban Property Group plans next major Wollongong tower

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/arada">Arada Australia</a> has wasted little time expanding its ambitions in Campsie, lodging plans for a second major project in the rapidly transforming town centre just months after unveiling its three-tower One Campsie proposal on Beamish Street.

The UAE-backed developer has now taken aim at one of the suburb’s most strategically positioned sites, filing a State Significant Development Application for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/10-north-parade-campsie-nsw-2194">33-storey mixed-use tower</a> at 10 London Street and 43 North Parade, directly opposite the future Campsie Metro Station. The proposal is currently on public exhibition and represents another significant vote of confidence in Campsie's emergence as one of Sydney’s key transit-oriented growth centres.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a>, the development would deliver 156 apartments above a podium containing retail and commercial space, creating a new residential and commercial gateway to the town centre. The scheme also includes a four-level above-ground parking podium and a dedicated residential amenity floor featuring wellness and recreation facilities. At least 10 per cent of the apartments would be allocated as affordable housing for a period of 10 years.

The proposal occupies a 1,631 sqm site bounded by London Street, North Parade and Dispensary Lane, immediately adjoining the future Metro station precinct and just metres from Beamish Street’s retail and dining strip. According to the Urban Design Report, the project seeks to deliver "a great place that prioritises human-scaled experience and provides spatial improvements to the area."

<img alt="First look: Arada doubles down in Campsie with 33-storey Metro-front tower plans" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="175a8324-015b-4856-abe3-ce6f23199fa7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/podium%20campsie.png?VersionId=742UGwXFhFBX4GEl6wX4PYIWREAgn6il" />

Woods Bagot describes the tower as a key marker within Campsie's next phase of growth.

"Located directly opposite the new Campsie Metro Station on North Parade, 10 London Street is a thoughtfully composed 33-storey mixed-use tower that contributes to the ongoing transformation of the town centre," the Architectural Design Report states. The report says the project is intended to provide "high-quality homes within a vibrant, connected urban environment, while helping define Campsie's future skyline."

A strong emphasis has been placed on the public realm. The ground floor incorporates over 500 sqm of retail space and active frontages along both London Street and North Parade, while the podium is wrapped by extensive landscaped planting intended to soften the building's scale and strengthen the pedestrian experience. The development would also widen surrounding footpaths and improve connections between the Metro station and the broader town centre.

Above the podium, residents would have access to more than 1,400 sqm of communal amenities, including a pool, gym and landscaped recreation spaces. A distinctive green-wall treatment extending across four podium levels forms a major architectural feature, helping differentiate the project within the emerging high-density precinct.

The tower's design is closely tied to the broader Campsie Town Centre Master Plan and the arrival of Sydney Metro. The Urban Design Report notes the proposal "directly supports the Campsie Town Centre Master Plan by delivering new homes in a location explicitly identified for growth, improved accessibility, and high-quality urban renewal." It adds that the project contributes to the master plan's vision for a strengthened town centre supported by thousands of new homes around the future Metro station.

<img alt="First look: Arada doubles down in Campsie with 33-storey Metro-front tower plans" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bfd17654-253e-489a-bade-6278d63db412" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/base%20campsie.png?VersionId=3roJPMQGs36dazpkhvpvbDDP73Ld.Ica" />

The application follows Arada Australia's recently lodged One Campsie project at 124–142 Beamish Street and 16–18 Ninth Avenue, where the developer is seeking approval for 346 apartments across three towers rising 24, 32 and 39 storeys. Together, the two proposals would cement Arada Australia as one of the most influential developers shaping Campsie's future urban form.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-arada-files-for-trio-of-apartment-towers-in-campsie-town-centre">First Look: Arada Australia files for trio of apartment towers in Campsie town centre</a>

Arada Australia entered the Australian market in 2024 and has rapidly assembled a significant development pipeline across Sydney. Alongside its Campsie holdings, the developer is soon to launch <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/wattle-green-2-fishburn-crescent-castle-hill-nsw-2154">Wattle Green</a> in Castle Hill, and has expanded its local operations following its acquisition of construction firm Roberts &amp; Co.

Located around 14 kilometres south-west of the Sydney CBD, the site sits at the centre of one of Sydney's fastest-changing middle-ring precincts. The Metro conversion of Campsie Station, combined with Canterbury-Bankstown Council's master planning framework, is driving significant residential intensification around Beamish Street and North Parade, with thousands of new homes expected over coming decades.

Staff reporter

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