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National online property agency iBuyNew (IBN) has been named on a list of Australia’s top 100 fastest growing start-up businesses.
It comes just weeks after listing on the Australian Securities Exchange.
Companies listed on BRW Magazine’s Fast Starters have operated for less than four years.
It has also made a turnover of at least A$500,000 in the last fiscal year with higher revenue than the previous year, have less than 200 full-time employees and more than one main customer.
IBN CEO Mark Mendel said the company, which specialises in off-the-plan sales, was delighted to be recognised by BRW’s annual Fast Starters list.
IBN ranked 54th place.
“This is a great acknowledgement for IBN and the hard work of our sales and marketing team who provide a service that people need to guide them through the complexities of buying off the plan,” he said.
“Demand for our service is increasing with record website traffic. We are now really focused on what needs to be done to deliver the results we are looking to achieve in 2017 and beyond.”
IBN this year launched a house and land division, but is currently more active in apartment sales.
The company also recently acquired 100 per cent of Melbourne-based property research advisers Nyko Property Pty Ltd.
IBN delivered new property sales worth $18.1 million in the 2016 September quarter.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

iBuyNew on BRW Fast Starters list

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An award winning home in Port Melbourne has hit the market.
The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-port+melbourne-124001662" target="_blank">MBAV's Best Custom Home award winner</a> was designed by Nicholas Murray architects and constructed by Hansen Living as the builder's own residence.
It has three bedrooms, two bathrooms, an executive home office, surround sound cinema room and a roof top terrace.
Dual decks surrounding a central swimming pool on the 214 sqm parcel.
Greg Hocking and Simon Gowling at Greg Hocking Real Estate have set a November 26 auction.
Greg says that "interest appears to be in the mid $2 milion range."
Meanwhile Biggin &amp; Scott say the last six weeks of the Port Melbourne property market has been positive and very different to previous spring peak property selling periods.
It advised the high demand for property in the area has stayed strong in both the house and apartment markets.
"The Port Melbourne house/townhouse market has continued to perform well.
"We think one of the key reasons for the strong demand is the low supply of houses that have been offered to the market.
"In the past six weeks, we have seen just 13 homes sell; this is quite low for the area at one of the peak selling times of the year."
It suggested the standout sales have been 436 Graham Street, near the corner of Williamstown Road, which was fought over by four bidders and sold well over the reserve and 8 Garton Street, situated on a small block of land of 107 square metres out of the heart of Port Melbourne, selling for $1,080,000.
There are thirty-one auctions set to be conducted in Port Melbourne between now and the 17th of December. 
The Port Melbourne Apartment market over the same six week period has been far more active than the housing market.
There have been 37 apartments sold of which only thirteen sold at auction.
The majority of apartments sell through the private sale method and have average days on the market of 45 days, so roughly fifteen days longer than the house/townhouse market.
"This time last year the average days on the market for an apartment in Port Melbourne was hovering around the 60 to 63 days," the agency advised.
Some 18 of the thirty-seven apartments sold for more than one million dollars.
Last Saturday, Biggin &amp; Scott auctioned 1/164 Ingles Street, Port Melbourne as part of the television show The Block.
"We felt privileged to represent Will and Karlie, the very talented couple from Brisbane and were thrilled to achieve $2.6 million under the hammer for the three bedroom, two bathroom, one car space apartment, selling for a massive $715,000 over reserve," it noted.
 
 
 
 
 
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Nicholas Murray award winning home listed in Port Melbourne

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A retail property, comprising a McDonald’s and 7-Eleven service station, that fronts directly onto the Gold Coast Highway at Palm Beach on the Gold Coast, has been sold for $8.525 million.
Set on a 3,011sq m corner site, the property is located at the intersection of 19th Avenue, the major east-west intersection at Palm Beach.
The property was sold by Jon Tyson and Michael Harcourt of Savills to a local private investor following a marketing campaign that generated over 250 enquiries and eight offers.
The sale reflects a sharp yield of 5.46 percent.
Jon Tyson said the Palm Beach property presented an extremely rare retail offering, 100% leased to dual national anchor tenants and with exposure to more than 34,000 passing vehicles daily.
<img src="/images/2016/11/18/Palm%20Beach%207-11%20McDonalds%201.jpg" alt="">
He said both McDonald’s and 7-Eleven have both occupied the site since it was developed in 2001.
They are secured on long-term net leases with fixed annual rental increases.
The sale represents the first time the property has been offered to the market.
Palm Beach is located on the southern Gold Coast, approximately 14km south of Surfer Paradise and just 10km north of Coolangatta Airport.
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Savills sell Palm Beach McDonalds for $8.525 million

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ASIC has released a consultation paper proposing to remake three class orders relating to time sharing schemes, which are due to expire (‘sunset’) as at 1 April 2017 or 1 October 2017.
They are seeking feedback from the time-sharing industry, consumers, consumer advocates and other interested parties on our proposals, including whether any additional protections are required to assist consumers.
As marketing of time-sharing schemes is an area which can involve pressure selling tactics, they have requested feedback on whether amendments are required to current requirements to improve consumer protections, including in relation to cooling-off, disclosure and sales practices. For example, they are seeking feedback on:
whether the current cooling-off arrangements are working effectively or whether alternative arrangements would be more appropriate;
proposed amendments to the template cooling-off statement to simplify the language and highlight key information for consumers, such as the contact details of the provider and that if an applicant does not exercise their cooling-off rights they may be required to continue to pay levies for an extended period (e.g. until they die) even if they do not use the time-share;
the introduction of more tailored disclosure requirements for fees and costs associated with the purchase of interests in a time-sharing scheme; and
whether any additional restrictions or obligations are required in relation to unsolicited meetings or telephone calls.
They are also proposing amendments to their guidance in Regulatory Guide 160 Time-sharing schemes (RG 160) to outline their expectations for compliance by operators and promoters of time-sharing schemes based on their regulatory experience in areas such as:
the content of Product Disclosure Statements;
the provision of financial product advice; and
conduct during meetings and seminars attended by consumers.
The instruments that they are proposing to remake with amendments are:
[CO 00/2460] Time-sharing schemes—property valuations;
[CO 02/315] Time-sharing schemes—use of loose-leaf price list; and
[CO 03/104] Relief facilitating the acquisition and sale of forfeited interests in registered time-sharing schemes
In summary, they are also proposing to:
remake as a single new instrument [CO 00/2460], [CO 02/315] and [CO 03/104];
incorporate into the new instrument—transitional relief for existing operators relying on [CO 02/237] Time-sharing schemes—operation of rental pool, the template cooling-off statement under Pro Forma 208 and the AFS licence conditions under Pro Forma 209 with amendments, and modifications to the enhanced fee disclosure requirements; and
make amendments to [CO 13/760] Financial requirements for responsible entities and operators of investor directed portfolio services, withdraw ASIC Pro Formas 205, 206 and 207 for new operators, and update our guidance in RG 160.
The consultation paper and draft ASIC instrument, which reflects the amendments proposed in the consultation paper, are attached below.
The last public consultation by ASIC on policy for time-sharing schemes occurred in 2006 and we see this as an opportunity to consult on whether the policy settings remain appropriate or any changes are required.
The draft ASIC instrument, which reflects the amendments proposed in the consultation paper, is available on their website under <a href="https://asic.gov.au/regulatory-resources/find-a-document/consultation-papers/cp-272-remaking-asic-class-orders-on-time-sharing-schemes/" target="_blank">CP 272</a>.
Submissions on CP 272 are due 12 January 2017.
Click <a href="https://asic.gov.au/regulatory-resources/find-a-document/consultation-papers/cp-272-remaking-asic-class-orders-on-time-sharing-schemes/" target="_blank">here</a> to download CP 272 and attachments
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Property 101: Remaking ASIC class orders on time sharing schemes

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Rugby League legend Steve Mortimer, or 'Turvey', has sold his Rushcutters Bay commercial investment property for $870,000.
Home to McLachlan Cafe, the <a href="https://bradfieldcleary.com.au/5916729/shop-2-84-90-mclachlan-avenue-rushcutters-bay" target="_blank">McLachlan Avenue property</a> was expected to fetch about $900,000 at its October auction, however, it was passed in.
Mortimer had paid $760,000 for the property in 2010.
The 36 square metre ground floor space was bought by an investor who will continue to run the cafe with a net income of $56,600 per annum. It's leased for a number of years.
BradfieldCleary’s Mark Daley and co-agent Grant Whiteman of Ray White Double Bay secured the sale.
Mortimer, who represented the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs for 12 years and 272 games, as well as New South Wales and Australia, runs Steve Mortimer's Australian Shuffleboard which brings shuffleboard to seniors across Australia.
 
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Rugby league legend Steve Mortimer offloads Rushcutters Bay investment

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Brantwood, built in 1919 for the then minister of the Gladesville Presbyterian Church, has been listed with $1.8 million hopes for its December 11 Ray White auction.
The home with a strong Victorian and Edwardian influence was restored to its former glory in the early 1990s.
The home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-gladesville-124068882" target="_blank">17 Pittwater Road</a> was then extended and renovated again by the current owners, who paid $490,000 in 1998.
The double brick, single level character home on 604 square metre has two bedrooms and two renovated bathrooms.
There's a traditional open from verandah with a sandstone wall and a formal lounge at the front of the home, with headlight stained glass bay windows and fireplace.
A large rear family room flows to the rear gardens.
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Gladesville's 1919 Brantwood listed for auction

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A waterfront property in Sydney's Kangaroo Point has been sold for $4,820,000.
Located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-kangaroo+point-123787542" target="_blank">92-94 Kangaroo Point Road</a>, the 1507 square metre property has views of the Georges River with an easterly aspect.
The double brick, split level home features a pontoon, jetty and boatshed, as well as a sandy beach on low tide.
It features four bedrooms, with the main bedroom having an ensuite.
The property was offered through Ray White agents Adam Crawley and Terry Flaskos.
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Kangaroo Point waterfront property sold for $4.82 million

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Home buyers in Karratha are taking advantage of improved affordability in the WA real estate market, with sales activity in the area spiking in October, according to reiwa.com data.
Sales volumes in the Karratha urban area have been on the rise since early 2016, with sales transactions lifting from nine in March to 37 in October – an increase of more than 300%.
Rachel Ross, REIWA agent at First National Real Estate Karratha, said she has noticed a decline in the supply of listings for sale in the Karratha area recently, with reiwa.com analysis confirming that listing levels had dropped from 161 in August to 123 in October.
"I think local buyers recognise that it’s a great time to buy and are taking advantage of improved affordability in the area which is drying up supply," Ross said.
"I think a lot of people are worried they’ve missed the bottom of the market and want to take advantage of the lower prices before they start to climb back up.
"Additionally, with the hospital going up, there will be more jobs available in the area. Karratha offers a great lifestyle, but people need job security and the hospital will assist with that."
Picture courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.
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Rising sales in Karratha suggest market may be on the rebound

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Homes in Sydney and Melbourne are selling faster than in the previous month and demand will continue to prop up house prices, according to CoreLogic's latest weekly report.
The property advisory firm says that using vendor discount and time on market metrics measures to gauge current market conditions can highlight the relative strength of cities' property markets.
CoreLogic research analyst Cameron Kusher suggests "the vendor discounting metric looks at properties selling for less than their original list price and looks at the percentage difference from initial list price to ultimate sale price". The time on market metric "shows the average number of days between when a property is first listed and when it ultimately sells".
It’s important to note that each of these measures is based on private treaty sales and therefore excludes auctions.
<a href="/images/2016/11/17/Average%20days%20on%20market.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/11/17/Average%20days%20on%20market.jpg" alt="">
In September 2016, the average days on market across the combined capital cities was recorded at 39 days.
At the same time a year earlier, the average days on market was a slightly lower 36 days.
Over recent years homes have been selling much quicker in Sydney and Melbourne than they have across the other capital cities, Kusher said.
Homes in Hobart and Canberra have seen fairly large falls in days on market over the past year.
<a href="/images/2016/11/17/Average%20days%20on%20market%20individual.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/11/17/Average%20days%20on%20market%20individual.jpg" alt="">
"This aligns with accelerating value growth in the Hobart and Canberra housing markets," Kusher said. "In Perth and Darwin homes have seen a large rise in the average days on market as selling conditions have become tougher and values have declined."
"In September 2016, a typical home sold at a discount from its original listing price was discounted by -5.7% across the combined capital cities. In comparison, at the same time a year earlier, the typical level of discounting was recorded at -6.0%. The lower level of discounting is reflective of more demand and fewer homes for sale but is also likely to reflect more realistic initial listing prices from vendors."
Sydney and Melbourne, along with Canberra, have been seeing low levels of discounting by vendors over recent years.
<a href="/images/2016/11/17/Average%20vendor%20discount.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/11/17/Average%20vendor%20discount.jpg" alt="">
Kusher said: "In particular, Sydney and Melbourne have shown strong housing demand which has led to many homes selling in excess of their initial list price. Despite only moderate growth in values over recent years Canberra has consistently recorded low levels of discounting. In Perth and Darwin as the housing market has wakened over recent years discounting levels have increased significantly.
"With combined capital city home values increasing for almost four and a half years (mainly in Sydney and Melbourne), the level of discounting and time on market remains extremely low and is being driven by ongoing strong housing demand coupled with relatively low stock levels.
"While these conditions persist, it is difficult to see how home values in Sydney and Melbourne in particular, won’t continue to increase."
<a href="/images/2016/11/17/Average%20vendor%20discount%20individual.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/11/17/Average%20vendor%20discount%20individual.jpg" alt="">
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Speed of Sydney and Melbourne sales to continue to push prices higher: CoreLogic

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There were 50,856 newly advertised properties for sale nationally over the 28 days to 13 November 2016 and 242,525 total properties for sale, according to CoreLogic’s latest weekly report.
The property data firm says that although the number of newly advertised properties is 1% lower than a year ago, new listings are at their highest level since November of last year. Total listings are 2.5% lower than a year ago, but at their highest level since early June of this year.
Across the combined capital cities, the total of 32,135 newly advertised properties is 3.3% lower than 12 months ago, while the figure of 112,862 total listings represents a 1.9% increase from a year ago.
<a href="/images/2016/11/17/Number%20of%20homes%20for%20sale.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/11/17/Number%20of%20homes%20for%20sale.jpg" alt="">
Newly advertised properties are lower than they were a year ago in Sydney (-12.5%), Melbourne (-4.5%), Adelaide (-1.3%), Hobart (-2.5%) and Darwin (-26.7%).
While listings are substantially lower than a year ago in many of these cities, it is somewhat more difficult to reconcile the 9.5% annual rise in Brisbane and 4.9% rise in Perth given no substantial uptick in housing demand in those cities.
In terms of total listings, although across the combined capitals they are slightly higher than a year ago, they are lower in Sydney (-10.1%), Melbourne (-1.8%), Hobart (-31.5%), Darwin (-0.2%) and Canberra (-10.6%).
There has been a somewhat counter-intuitive substantial rise in total listings in Brisbane (11.8%) and Perth (18.9%).
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New property listings at their highest level since last November: CoreLogic

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/abadeen">Abadeen</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/perifa">PERIFA</a> have celebrated the topping out of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf,</a> marking a significant milestone in the delivery of one of Syd​ney's most anticipated waterfront communities.

Located on Sydney's harbourfront at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/putney-nsw-2112">Putney</a>, the project has now reached its highest structural point, with construction progressing strongly towards completion in 2027. 
&nbsp; 
The milestone was celebrated on-site with project partners Phoenix Property Investors, Mitsubishi Estate Asia, Versatile Construction, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, consultants and stakeholders, to recognise the collective effort behind the transformation of the historic waterfront site into a vibrant new residential, marina and lifestyle destination.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362240] 
&nbsp; 
<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> will deliver a mix of waterfront residences and terraces, complemented by a private 36-berth marina, waterfront dining opportunities and a revitalised foreshore designed to reconnect the community with the river's edge. 
&nbsp; 
Abadeen Executive Chairman and Founder Justin Brown said the project represented a rare opportunity to create the next chapter in Sydn​ey's long history of successful waterfront precincts. 
&nbsp; 
"Throughout Sydney, some of the city's most sought-after addresses have emerged from carefully considered waterfront precincts such as Woolloom​ooloo Wharf, Walsh Bay and Breakfast Point," Brown said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362566] 
&nbsp; 
"What makes these places so successful is that they become much more than residential developments," Brown said.

"They bring together homes, hospitality, marina facilities, public spaces and a strong sense of community in locations where future supply is incredibly limited."

Brown has long described absolute waterfront land in Sy​dney as "finite."

"Once these opportunities are developed, they are rarely replicated. That's why Syd​ney's waterfront precincts have consistently demonstrated strong demand and long-term value growth over many decades. 
&nbsp; 
"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> is one of the few remaining opportunities to secure a residence within a masterplanned waterfront community that combines direct water access, marina ownership opportunities and a genuine village lifestyle just moments from the Sy​dney CBD."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362564] 
&nbsp; 
PERIFA Founder and Managing Director Fabrizio Perilli said the project reflected a shared commitment to delivering exceptional places that create long-term value for residents and the broader community. 
&nbsp; 
"The topping out milestone is a significant achievement for the Versatile Group and a testament to the collaboration between all project partners, consultants and contractors involved," Perilli said. 
&nbsp; 
"Beyond the residences themselves, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> will establish a new waterfront destination that celebrates the history, character and lifestyle of this unique location while creating a lasting legacy for future generations."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=291195] 
&nbsp; 
Construction is being delivered by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/versatile">Versatile Construction</a>, with structural works now substantially complete across the precinct. Attention will progressively shift to the construction of the waterview terraces, apartment façades, services and interior fit-out works over the coming months. 
&nbsp; 
With limited residences and marina berths remaining, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> continues to attract strong interest from owner occupiers and downsizers seeking a premium waterfront lifestyle within close proximity to Putne​y Village, Rh​odes, Top Ry​de and the Syd​ney CBD. 
&nbsp; 
As one of the last opportunities to secure a residence within a new masterplanned waterfront community on Sy​dney Harbour, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> is expected to remain a highly sought-after address for years to come.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=13962]

Joel Robinson

Abadeen, PERIFA, top out Putney Wharf harbourfront precinct

Kew has long been regarded as one of Melbourne's premier residential suburbs. It's a location defined by its grand period homes, leafy streets and some of the city's most prestigious schools, yet it has often sat just outside the spotlight cast on neighbouring Hawthorn and Camberwell.

Increasingly, however, buyers are recognising that Kew offers much of what draws people to those suburbs, with a quieter residential setting, exceptional amenity and long-term owner-occupier appeal.

Within a few minutes' walk, residents can access Kew Junction, one of Melbourne's most established village centres. Cafés, bakeries, restaurants, supermarkets, boutique retailers and everyday services are all on the doorstep, with local favourites including Centonove, Adeney Milk Bar Cafe, and Frank &amp; Harri creating the type of walkable lifestyle that has become increasingly difficult to find in Melbourne's inner east. Beyond the immediate neighbourhood, Glenferrie Road's renowned shopping and dining precinct in Hawthorn and the retail, dining and entertainment offerings of Camberwell Junction are both just a short drive or tram ride away.

The suburb is equally well connected. Tram routes 48 and 109 provide direct access to the CBD, while High Street and Cotham Road connect residents to the wider inner east.&nbsp;Nearby access to the Eastern Freeway also places the Yarra Valley, Mornington Peninsula and Melbourne Airport within easy reach, adding another layer of convenience for weekend travel.&nbsp;It's a rare combination of connectivity and tranquillity, where quiet residential streets sit just moments from some of Melbourne's most established shopping and lifestyle precincts.

For families, Kew remains one of Melbourne's most tightly held addresses. Carey Baptist Grammar School, Xavier College, Methodist Ladies' College, Trinity Grammar, Ruyton Girls' School and Genazzano FCJ College are all nearby, while the Yarra River parklands, walking trails and sporting clubs provide another layer of lifestyle appeal.

It's within this established pocket that developer Ricdanic is delivering <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/wimba-ave-kew-9-11-wimba-avenue-kew-vic-3101">Wimba Ave</a>, a boutique collection of just 13 residences across two buildings named after its location on the tree-lined Wimba Avenue,&nbsp;within one of Kew's most prestigious pockets where homes have been known to sell up to and above $8 million.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140755 project_image_fid=354809]

The residences prioritise the space that buyers are increasingly searching for but struggling to find in established suburbs. Living areas extend beyond five metres in width, ceiling heights range from three to five metres, and apartments open onto private gardens averaging around 125 sqm. Selected residences also feature balconies of approximately 60 sqm, while premium inclusions include Miele appliances, double-glazed windows, EV readiness, fully electric systems and a 7.2 NatHERS energy rating.

Architect Chris Idle says opportunities to deliver homes of this scale within established suburbs have become increasingly uncommon.

"There are very few opportunities to do these kinds of developments in leafy, established suburbs," he says. "To get this level of amenity, natural light, and architectural freedom in such a setting is extremely rare."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140755 project_image_fid=366267]

The architecture draws on Kew's established character through the use of handmade Krause bricks, while landscaping by John Patrick introduces 23 plant species, including nine native varieties, creating an environment which focuses just as much on nature as it does the building.

Construction on Wimba Ave is well underway by renowned high-end builder Sinjen, with completion expected in late 2027. Prices start from $2.22 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=140755]

The enduring appeal of Kew's tree-lined streets and village lifestyle

"For me, it's the location." That was the first thing Chris pointed to when reflecting on why he and his wife Marita decided to purchase at Candela Ivanhoe, the under-construction new apartment development by Salter Brothers in the heart of the north-eastern M​elb​ourne​ suburb. ​

"We've lived here before… everything is here," Chris said.

"Our doctor is around the corner, there's dentists, pilates, everything we need, restaurants, fast food places, two train stations, Ivanhoe and Darebin, both in walking distance. You don't need anything else."

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/X8K0Bozug7A?si=Puwc6vx_ZO0qQZF8" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Just 10 kilometres from Melbo​urn​e's CBD, Ivanhoe combines direct city connectivity with the amenity of an established village community. Residents have access to highly regarded schools, expansive parklands, public transport, and a thriving retail and hospitality precinct centred around Upper Heidelberg Road, all within a neighbourhood that has retained its leafy character despite its proximity to the city.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/candela-ivanhoe-40-upper-heidelberg-road-ivanhoe-vic-3079">Candela Ivanhoe</a> sits within the heart of this established landscape, positioned just moments from Ivanhoe Village and within walking distance of many of the suburb's most sought-after amenities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=342 project_image_fid=364553]

From Candela, residents can access cafés, grocers, wine bars, restaurants and essential services on foot, while Ivanhoe Station and Darebin Station provide direct connectivity across Mel​bour​ne. The development is also surrounded by some of the suburb's best-known lifestyle destinations, including Pinkie, Laurent, Enni, Docasa and Woodfire Pizza e Cucina, alongside Ivanhoe Plaza, Woolworths, pharmacies and specialty retailers.

Green space is another defining feature of the suburb. Darebin Parklands, Ivanhoe Park, Nellie Ibbot Park and the Yarra River trail network provide extensive opportunities for recreation, while Ivanhoe Golf Course and Ivanhoe Tennis Club continue to underpin the area's long-established lifestyle appeal.

The suburb's education offering further strengthens demand. Ivanhoe Grammar School, Ivanhoe Girls' Grammar School, Mary Immaculate Primary School and Ivanhoe Primary School have helped establish the area as one of Melbou​​rne's most sought-after schooling precincts, attracting families and downsizers alike who want to remain connected to the area.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=342 project_image_fid=357510]

While location was the priority for Marita and Chris, the project itself also needed to meet their expectations.

"Whilst location was paramount, I was also looking at design of the environment and Candela ticked every box," Marita said.

"We're just thrilled with our choice."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=342 project_image_fid=336455]

Developed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/salter-brothers">Salter Brothers</a>, Candela Ivanhoe has been designed to complement its village setting, with an emphasis on generous floorplans, natural light and practical everyday living.

Residents will have access to a range of shared amenities, including a communal rooftop garden and dedicated residential lounge, complemented by a ground-floor café and lifestyle wellbeing centre, helping foster the sense of community already emerging among future owners.

That approach has resonated strongly with the market. More than 90 per cent of purchasers at Candela Ivanhoe are owner-occupiers, with buyers ranging from downsizers and second-home buyers to young families and first home buyers, creating a genuinely multi-generational community of grandparents, parents and children. It reflects a broader shift across Melbo​​urne's apartment market, where buyers are increasingly prioritising neighbourhood quality, lifestyle amenity and long-term liveability.

Currently under construction by Ironside, Candela Ivanhoe comprises 58 apartments. Candela Ivanhoe is scheduled for completion in the coming months, and residents can move in from September. One to four bedroom residences, prices from $649,000 and limited opportunities remaining.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=342]

Location and lifestyle drive demand at Candela Ivanhoe

As apartment buyers increasingly look beyond the four walls of their residence, the quality and depth of shared amenity has become a defining factor in how developments are designed and experienced, particularly in the high-rise, new apartment development space.

In Southbank, where high-density living continues to evolve, developers are placing greater emphasis on creating environments that support wellbeing, connection, and convenience as part of everyday life.

That approach sits at the heart of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/aura-at-melbourne-square-7-hoff-boulevard-southbank-vic-3006">AURA</a>, the latest residential tower in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/osk-property">OSK Property</a>’s $3.5 billion Melbourne Square precinct. Rising 67 storeys above Hoff Boulevard, the 673-apartment development has been conceived around what OSK describes as a “vertical wellness ecosystem”, a layered collection of amenities that extends throughout the building rather than being confined to a single podium level.

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The amenity offering begins on the seventh level within the AURA Club, a dedicated resident hub focused on health, relaxation, and daily convenience. Here, residents will have access to an indoor swimming pool, cold plunge, spa, sauna, and steam room, alongside a fully equipped gym, reformer Pilates studio, and yoga room.

The wellness facilities are complemented by a range of spaces that acknowledge the changing ways people live and work. Work-from-home lounges and co-working areas sit alongside a library, music room, games room, cinema facilities, and open-air terrace spaces, providing residents with flexible environments that can adapt throughout the day.

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Beyond the internal amenity, AURA introduces a series of Japanese-inspired gardens that form a quieter counterpoint to the tower’s social spaces.

Landscaped retreats feature curated outdoor dining, tranquil courtyard seating, fire pit, and a tea house pavilion. Rather than functioning as simple recreational areas, the gardens have been designed as places for reflection and informal gathering, drawing on principles of balance, nature, and calm that underpin the project's broader design philosophy.

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The social amenity continues to evolve as residents move higher through the building. Levels 49 and 50 house the Meridian Club, where a lounge bar, conservatory spaces, and private dining rooms take advantage of elevated city views. At the summit of the tower, the exclusive Cumulus Club spans Levels 66 and 67, offering additional lounges, private dining, and meditation and treatment rooms positioned above Melbourne’s skyline.

For OSK Property, the extensive amenity offering reflects a broader focus on wellbeing as a core component of apartment living rather than an added feature.

“Aura stands tall as an exemplar of holistic wellness – its focus on social, physical and mental health culminate in a building that is calming, restorative and relaxing, where residents will have their own sanctuary within the well-connected and sought-after Southbank,” says OSK Property CEO Chong Boon Woon.

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AURA’s amenity strategy extends beyond the tower itself through its integration with the wider Melbourne Square precinct.

Residents will have direct access to Kennedy Park, Southbank’s 3,745 sqm landscaped public park, alongside a full-line Woolworths supermarket, childcare centre, hospitality venues, and approximately 1,600 sqm of additional retail planned within AURA’s lower levels. Together, these elements create a highly connected residential environment where daily needs, recreation, and wellness are woven into the fabric of the community.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151921 project_image_fid=370253]

As Melbourne’s apartment market continues to mature, developments are increasingly judged by the lifestyle they provide beyond individual residences.

Through its combination of wellness facilities, landscaped retreats, social clubs, and precinct-wide amenity, AURA represents a shift toward a more comprehensive model of vertical living, one where shared spaces play as significant a role as the homes themselves.

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AURA elevates amenity living at Melbourne Square

Builder-developer Scion is the latest to target Sydney's booming Hills Showground Metro precinct, filing plans for more than 100 apartments within walking distance of the station.

Scion has lodged a concurrent rezoning and State Significant Development Application for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/27-33-middleton-avenue-castle-hill-nsw-2154">27–33 Middleton Avenue</a>, where it plans to replace four existing homes with an 11 and 14-storey mixed-use development comprising 109 apartments, six affordable housing dwellings, and a ground-floor café.

Designed by BHK Architects, the proposal includes three levels of basement parking with 174 spaces, more than 1,200 sqm of communal open space, and extensive landscaping across the 3,791 sqm site.

The development has been designed as two buildings connected by a recessed wintergarden spine, with the 14-storey building positioned to the south and the 11-storey building to the north.

<img alt="Scion" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="64dc359d-736b-43b8-87a8-70a8285cab47" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-25%20at%208.47.01%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=PXh.m8id_aevBPHEckPf88wQ2RQThPos" />

The apartment mix has been weighted towards owner-occupiers, with 13 one-bedroom apartments, 55 two-bedroom residences, 31 three-bedroom apartments, six three-bedroom lofts, and four four-bedroom homes. Six apartments will be dedicated as affordable housing in line with the NSW Housing SEPP.

According to the Architectural Design Report by BKH, the proposal seeks to create "a place-responsive architecture" inspired by the natural landscape surrounding Cattai Creek, while strengthening the public domain through landscaping, active frontages and a neighbourhood café.

Atlas Urban, in its Urban Design Report, says the proposal takes a different approach to increasing density around Hills Showground Station by favouring a more slender, vertically articulated built form over a conventional mid-rise outcome. The report argues this allows for greater deep soil planting, improved solar access and a better public domain outcome, while still delivering additional housing close to rapid public transport.

The site sits around 500 metres from Hills Showground Metro Station, within a precinct earmarked for significant residential intensification following the opening of the Sydney Metro Northwest line. Planning documents accompanying the application note that Greater Sydney's population has grown by more than one million people since planning for the precinct first began, reinforcing the need to accelerate housing delivery around existing transport infrastructure.

Scion is expanding its development pipeline which also includes <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/chatham-west-ryde-2-6-chatham-road-west-ryde-nsw-2114">Chatham in West Ryde</a>, 62 apartments which are approaching completion. They also have a State Significant Development Application with the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/96-anzac-avenue-west-ryde-nsw-2114">145 apartments on Anzac Avenue</a>, also in West Ryde.

Staff reporter

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