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The ABC has put its Selwyn Street, Elsternwick property on the market through Savills Australia. 
The property comprises offices, storage facilities and some of the ABC’s Melbourne television studios.
It has produced iconic Australian television productions.
The corner site of 6,155 square metres is located nine kilometres from Melbourne’s CBD.
It is zoned Mixed Use, includes six titles and has frontages to Selwyn Street (110 metres) and Sinclair Street (41 metres) as well as the use of a rear laneway.
The onsite buildings, total approximately 5,000 square metres, include a two level office, several warehouses and a two level carpark.
The site is within 100 metres of Elsternwick station, trams and retail facilities along Glen Huntly Road, while recreational reserves and several schools are all within one to two kilometres.
<img src="/images/2016/11/14/2-16%20Selwyn%20St%20ABC%20Elsternwick%20aerial.jpg" alt="">
Given its attributes, Savills’ State Director, Clinton Baxter, who is marketing the property with Jesse Radisich and Nick Peden, said the property would undoubtedly attract a great deal of attention.
"The existing buildings date back to the 1950s and offer a wide range of potential uses in what is one of the best and most highly credentialed development locations in Melbourne,’’ Mr Baxter said.
The offices, storage facilities and studios will be decommissioned next year as the productions move to its new facility at the ABC's studios in Southbank.
The property will be sold following an expressions of interest process, closing December 6.
The ABC TV Websters Project building on the corner of Selwyn and Sinclair Streets was described in Architect magazine as a "sensitive program of alteration and extension in a mixed area in Elsternwick. It won a commendation at the 1994 Victorian RAIA awards.
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Savills lists ABC Elsternwick studios

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A private Asian investor from Sydney has paid $5.06 million on an aggressive 3.61 percent passing yield for a Shell-Coles Express Service Station property at Kingsgrove.
It was at a hotly contested auction conducted by Savills.
Savills agent Steven Lerche said the property was sold subject to a five year lease to Viva Energy Australia Pty Ltd at an estimated net income of $183,022 per annum.
There were 160 enquiries, with over 65 requests for the contract of sale prior to the auction of the 137-139 Kingsgrove Road property.
It came with the bonus of future redevelopment potential of the 3320 square metre site, which includes a portion of undeveloped land, is located at the prime intersection of Kingsgrove and St Albans roads.
It boasts a combined 122 metres street frontage, and is only 600 metres north of the M5 East.
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Shell servo at Kingsgrove sells on 3.61 percent yield through Savills

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At the second stage launch on Saturday, Greenland sold over 100 apartments for nbh, their new development at Lachlan's Line.
Designed by Bates Smart and Turner, the second stage release saw around 300 apartments within three new buildings come to the market, 'Nexus', 'Hearth' and 'Home'.
One bedroom apartments are available from $650,000, two bedroom apartments from $950,000 and three bedroom apartments from $1.65 million.
The four four bedroom townhouses are priced at $2.4 million.
Studio apartments are available from $450,000.
<img src="/images/2016/11/14/nbh2.jpg" alt="" width="523" height="279">
There will also be 6000 sqm of ground floor retail.
Set to become one of New South Wales largest master planned communities, nbh will be the first mixed-use development within the entire Lachlan's Line precinct.
Located in the heart of Sydney's north west, nbh will house a total of up to 5,000 new residents and 2,700 dwellings.
Greenland Australia Managing Director Sherwood Luo said nbh at Lachlan’s Line represented a significant opportunity for savvy investors, who have been the bulk of purchasers within both stage one and stage two release.
“As one of the key growth areas in NSW because of its connectivity to the rest of Sydney, Macquarie Park is fast becoming one of Sydney’s most sought after residential suburbs," Sherwood said.
"Adding to that the fact that nbh will offer the community brand new retail, dining, and lifestyle opportunities - buyers are seeing the value in purchasing."
For more information, visit <a href="https://www.nbhsydney.com.au">www.nbhsydney.com.au</a>. 
 
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Greenland secures strong sales on stage two release of nbh

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DEXUS Property Group and DEXUS Wholesale Property Fund have secured the windfall sale of the office tower at 39 Martin Place, Sydney.
The transaction follows the finalisation of negotiations relating to the compulsory acquisition of the property by Transport for NSW for the construction of the Sydney metro.
A total of $332 million will be received for the office tower and shopping circle, representing a premium to the property’s book value of $222.6 million at June 2016.
This is in addition to the exchange on the transfer of the leasehold interest in the Martin Place Shopping Circle which is expected to settle in late 2016.
Proceeds from the transaction will be used by DEXUS and DWPF to repay existing debt facilities.
DEXUS bought the property in 2012 for $143 million.
The 39 Martin Place premises were a B-Grade property located in a prominent position adjacent to Martin Place railway station, providing 14,525sqm of office accommodation (74% occupancy by income) over 20 levels together 1,816sqm of retail space (100% occupancy by income), comprising 6 retail shops with major anchor being Tiffany &amp; Co.
The adjoining Martin Place Shopping Circle provides a further 805sqm of retail space as part of a convenient underground pedestrian link to the railway station.
The construction of 39 Martin Place was completed in 1972 and major refurbishments were completed in 1997 and 2011, with the latest including $15 million of improvements incorporating lift cars and the full refurbishment of six floors.
"The property presents DXS and DWPF with an attractive medium-term repositioning opportunity in a precinct being revitalised through the current refurbishment of neighbouring properties," DEXUS advised on acquisition. 
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DEXUS secures 39 Martin Place office tower sale

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Kathy Ward and Peter O'Connell, the co-founders of top modelling agency Chic Management, have sold their redundant Southern Highlands weekender, Foxhill.
The five bedroom homestead with wrapround verandah stands on an 11 hectare Kangaloon parcel with views over the Robertson Valley.
Michael Maloney at Richardson &amp; Wrench secured the sale that came with a price of $2.75 million.
It last traded for $650,000 in 1998.
The extensive equestrian facilities once homed award winning show jumper Vettori, who the couple bought from New Zealand in 2004.
There's 10 paddocks and post and rail fencing, shelter sheds and a sand area.
Ward and O'Connell co-founded Chic Management with Ursula Hufnagl in 1992. 
O'Connell's major interest these days is telecommunications provider Amaysim.
Ward, a keen dressage rider, loved it was remote but close to the city saying once, "you get space and you get quietness and you get solitude. It’s a beautiful part of the world."
This article first appeared in the Sunday Telegraph.
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Southern Highlands weekender Foxhill sold

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<div class="tg-tlc-storybody_intro">Former Block contestants Dan Reilly and Dani Wales have listed Seddon House after two years of restoration.</div>
<div class="tg-tlc-storybody_intro"> </div>
<div class="tg-tlc-storybody_intro">
<div class="tg-tlc-storybody_intro">A price guide of $1.1 million plus has been given to the now three bedroom home that was previously an untouched Victorian. </div>
<div class="tg-tlc-storybody_intro"> </div>
<div class="tg-tlc-storybody_intro">The couple paid $462,000 for the home after filming concluded for The Block All Stars season in mid-2013. </div>
<div class="tg-tlc-storybody_intro"> </div>
<div class="tg-tlc-storybody_intro">It <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-seddon-123982822" target="_blank">now features a modern two-storey extension</a> clad in timber at the rear.</div>
<div class="tg-tlc-storybody_intro"> </div>
<div class="tg-tlc-storybody_intro">An open plan living an dining area spill onto an out door deck.</div>
<div class="tg-tlc-storybody_intro"> </div>
<div class="tg-tlc-storybody_intro"><img src="/images/2016/11/14/Seddon%202.jpg" alt="" width="551" height="341"></div>
<div class="tg-tlc-storybody_intro"> </div>
<div class="tg-tlc-storybody_intro">Their renovation, including updating the Victorian facade, has come at a cost of around $400,000. They have lived in the home for nearly a year.</div>
<div class="tg-tlc-storybody_intro"> </div>
<div class="tg-tlc-storybody_intro">Gerard Hannah and Marty Rankin at Villa Real Estate Seddon have set an auction date of November 26.</div>
<div class="tg-tlc-storybody_intro"> </div>
<div class="tg-tlc-storybody_intro"><img src="/images/2016/11/14/Seddon%201.jpg" alt="" width="550" height="338"></div>
<div class="tg-tlc-storybody_intro"> </div>
<div class="tg-tlc-storybody_intro"> </div>
</div>
<div class="tg-tlc-storybody_intro">The couple competied on the 2012 and 2013 series of the show but Dan, a carpenter by trade, returned last year as a partner to 'Foreman' Keith.</div>
<div class="tg-tlc-storybody_intro"> </div>
<div class="tg-tlc-storybody_intro">He himself was known as 'Foredan'.</div>
<div class="tg-tlc-storybody_intro"> </div>
<div class="tg-tlc-storybody_intro">They also run design and construction company Red Door Project.</div>
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Seddon House, renovated by former Blockheads Dan and Dani, hits the market 

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The final of this year's The Block in Port Melbourne saw young Queenslanders Will and Karlie take the top prize.
Their ground floor garden apartment sold for $2.6 million, selling for $715,000 over its reserve on the Sunday night auction episode.
It was the biggest sale of an apartment The Block has ever seen, beating the $2.47 million paid in 2014 for a converted cinema apartment in Albert Park.
There appeared to be a limited pool of potential buyers, judging by what went to air, with the supply line coming via the close knit Block buyers' agent team who appear on the series.
Four of the five apartments were snapped up by buyers’ advocates — three by Nicole Jacobs, and one by Frank Valentic, none by Greville Pabst - who have all appeared as guest judges and have become prolific publicity seekers via purchasers for clients.
Will and Karlie's cool hallway and study nook
<img src="/images/2016/11/14/Will%20and%20KArlie%203.jpg" alt="" width="512" height="271">
The total sales also broke a suburb record.
The price per square metre record for Port Melbourne was $7,000, however each of the five apartments fetched between $8,764 and $10,528 per sqm.
Melbourne's Julia and Sasha weren't far behind the winners in second, selling their penthouse apartment $660,000 over reserve at $2.59 million.
Perth couple, and the oldest competitors in The Block history Dan and Karleen, sold their apartment for $2.3 million, beating their reserve by $525,000.
Geelong best mates and heavy favourites Andy and Ben finished fourth when their apartment sold for $2.25 million, topping their reserve by $510,000.
Last and not least were New South Wales representatives Kim and Chris, who were some way off the pace, only going $425,000 over their reserve in their $2,305,000 sale.
Winners Will and Karlie admitted they were battling a mortgage when they applied for the reality program. The 25 year old novice renovators left $815,000 richer (extra $100,000 winners cheque).
“A few months ago we were struggling, we were at home and thought we would put in an entry to The Block, didn’t think anything of it,” Will said.
“Our emotions were ballistic.”
The couple will use the money to renovate their three bedroom home in Rochedale South that cost them $350,000 in January.
Channel Nine paid out $2,835,000 across the five couples, short of the record of $3,165,000 set last year in South Yarra.
The comedian Dave Hughes was among the interested parties in the crowd for the auction. Despite registering for the right to bid, Hughes never raised his hand.
<div class="in-content-ad">It was filmed at the 1920s converted soap factory office in Port Melbourne.</div>
<div class="in-content-ad"> </div>
<div class="in-content-ad">Channel Nine’s finale rated as the most-watched non-sports show of the year beating the finale of My Kitchen Rules with 2.104m people tuning in last night.</div>
 
 
 
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The Block finale; Winners and suburb records

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Laurance Wines in Western Australia has been sold to a US investor for $30 million.
New York based real estate developer and wine enthusiast Howard Milstein has purchased the property which will be partly leased to the Oatley family and Larry Cherubino Wines.
Brian Moultan, ACTON South West director said he believed the deal to be the highest value vineyard sale of all time.
“We sold Clairault six years ago for $16 million, but there’s been nothing beyond that that I’m aware of,” he told Business News.
“It’s good that valuers in the future now will have to consider this price per hectare of land and price per hectare of vines, but it’s still a pretty tough market – there is still a degree of nervousness out there,” Mr Moulton said.
Mr Moulton is also actively marketing Edwards Wines, a family-owned estate near Cowaramup that he said was also attracting significant interest, particularly from foreign investors.
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New York real estate developer buys WA's Laurance Wines 

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The commercial real estate market stabilized in Q3’16, declining by a marginal 1.1 percent year-over-year, according to REAL Capital Analytics latest report.
After a slow H1’16, $30.4b of income-producing investments were recorded. Development site sales, a key aspect of the Asia Pacific real estate universe, reached $76.3b in Q3’16.
Investment activity in the quarter was largely driven by a number of portfolio transactions in China and Japan, potentially masking a lack of liquidity in Asia Pacific.
Primary concerns such as interest rates hikes, emerging economy bond markets, and political risks are still challenging investment decisions.
Portfolio deals collectively counted for 43 percent of overall volumes in the region. As a result, the market saw fewer active buyers and deals completed.
China outperformed the rest of the region, recording $10.0b in direct real estate transactions in Q3’16, a 28 percent YOY increase. With now one-fifth of the overall activity in the region, China has overtaken Australia to become the second most active Asia Pacific market.
<a href="/images/2016/11/08/quarterly%20transaction%20volume.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/11/08/quarterly%20transaction%20volume.jpg" alt="">
Cross-border activity continued to grow and accounted for 33 percent of total volume in Q3’16. This surprise increase is largely caused by a decrease of total purchases by domestic investors, rather than a strong expansion in cross-border capital.
In fact, domestic investment volumes declined by 8 percent YOY to $19.0b. Much of this decline in domestic activity was due to strong Asian outbound capital into global markets such as the U.K., U.S. and continental Europe.
Asia Pacific yields remained largely stable over the quarter. One exception was Australia where property yields compressed by additional 20 bps across all asset classes and geographies, pushing pricing closer to its 2007 peak levels.
Meanwhile in Japan, yield compression slowed down dramatically as commercial property yields reached their peak levels and market activity tapered.
Due to aggressive pricing, foreign buyers are struggling to compete with strong domestic competition and as a consequence became net sellers for the first time this cycle.
The uptick in investment volume in Q3’16 may give the impression of an improving market, following year-over- year declines in the first and second quarters.
However, the economic fundamentals and the ultimate drivers of real estate income have not changed.
Most importantly, when looking at the volumes in greater detail, Q3’16 was driven by a number of portfolio transactions in China and Japan.
In fact, portfolio deals − five of these above $500m – collectively counted for $13.0b, representing 43 percent of overall investment volumes in the region.
As such, the market saw fewer active buyers and deals completed in the quarter. The largest portfolio was CITIC China Overseas $4.7b (RMB31.6t) residential assets sale, which resulted in an increase in apartments sector growth.
<a href="/images/2016/11/08/picture%202.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/11/08/picture%202.jpg" alt="">
Looking only at single assets, investments have been focused on the office sector, where the majority of core, secured income, long-term stable assets can be found.
The trend of increasing deal size in the office sector continued. (See Q2’16 report.) The average deal size in the office sector grew by another 2 percent QOQ to $80.0m.
The theme of a mismatch between buyer and seller expectations also recurs this quarter. Property yields in most markets remained largely unchanged, Australia being the exception.
Across all Australian cities and asset classes, 12-month average yields declined by 20 bps in Q3’16, reaching their historic 2007 low. In general, the markets for income-producing real estate seem fully priced.
However, as future new investment opportunities narrow, we may see prices shifting even higher.
<a href="/images/2016/11/08/commercial%20transaction%20yields.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/11/08/commercial%20transaction%20yields.jpg" alt="">
As a result of high demand for core real estate, and with pricing at historic peaks, investors are searching for new alternatives.
While some look for more creative strategies in the value-add and opportunistic space, others have found warehouse and logistics assets a feasible alternative.
Investment volumes in the industrial sector reached $3.5b in Q3’16, a 32 percent YOY increase.
Historically, Japan and Australia dominated the space – representing 66 percent of overall transaction activity – but new urban locations for development, particularly in China, have started to appear.
<a href="/images/2016/11/08/industrial.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/11/08/industrial.jpg" alt="">
China outperformed the rest of the region, recording $10.0b in direct real estate transactions in Q3’16, representing 28 percent YOY growth. With this strength, China now represents one-fifth of the overall activity in the region, the largest share historically.
China has overtaken Australia in terms of income-producing property volume in Asia Pacific and is now the second most active market. This is partially driven by a number of mega portfolio deals completed this quarter, but the ongoing appetite for Chinese real estate is robust.
Furthermore, development site activity in China recorded yet another quarter of strong activity.
Domestic Chinese developers continued to expand their land banks, collectively investing $226.9b (RMB1.9t) in the first nine months of 2016.
Regardless of an increasing risk of oversupply in some of the Chinese cities, developers remain con dent and land prices are increasing substantially.
According to RCA analysis, the average development site price in China increased by 54 percent YOY in Q3’16.
<a href="/images/2016/11/08/yoy%20change.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/11/08/yoy%20change.jpg" alt="">
In Hong Kong, activity continued to be boosted by mainland Chinese investors’ purchases, based on confidence fueled by relatively limited new supply and low vacancy rates.
The total volume in Hong Kong reached $2.8b. Hong Kong and China are the only two markets currently with market share above their long-term average share of total Asia Pacific volume.
In contrast, volumes fell by 27 percent YOY in Japan, pushing its market share sharply below its long-term average. Primarily, this is driven by a lack of suitable stock and the reluctance of active buyers to pay current prices.
It should be noted that holding periods on repeatedly sold assets are increasing – a trend common not only to Japan but widespread around the region as investors are increasing reluctant to sell their holdings in the current environment.
<a href="/images/2016/11/08/market%20shares%20winners%20and%20losers.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/11/08/market%20shares%20winners%20and%20losers.jpg" alt="">
Meanwhile in Australia, the market sentiment remains positive, supported by relatively stable investment volumes.
In Q3’16 $5.1b was transacted, placing Australia at its long-term average. There is further upward pressure on property prices, however, and yields have been compressing further across all asset classes and geographies.
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Commercial real estate market stabilizing after last quarter with small decline in year-over-year

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One in every five Australians own an investment property according to the latest Financial Wellbeing Index from ING Direct.
According to the index the number of Australians investing in property has gone up by three percent since mid-2015.
Mark Woolnough, head of third party distribution, for ING Direct said what’s interesting is that while there are continued questions around affordability and the challenges for younger generations in getting onto the property ladder, it’s actually Gen Y that is leading the property investment pack.
"22 percent of Gen Y (18-34 year olds) own at least one investment property, followed by 20 percent of Gen X (35-49 year olds) and 19 percent of Baby Boomers (50-64 year olds).
 “Ultimately we’re seeing that Australians still hold faith in the long term investment benefits of property. Property is a great opportunity to build wealth, but it definitely pays to do your research, take your time, speak to the experts such as a mortgage broker or buyers’ agent, and focus on the financials of the investment rather than the emotions of a purchase.”
<a href="/images/2016/11/09/Table%201.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/11/09/Table%201.jpg" alt="">
NSW and WA have the highest percentage of residents with at least one investment property (22 percent each), both growing year on year by four percent.
In South Australia, one in every 10 (11 percent) people owns an investment property, down from 15 percent in 2015.
 
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One in every five Australians own an investment property

<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] 
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<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."

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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.

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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.

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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."

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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.

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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.

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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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