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Since bottoming out in 2011 and 2012 in all states, upgrader demand has strengthened over the last four years and continues to rise, according to QBE's latest housing report.
Upgraders and downsizers have historically represented the largest component of residential demand, being 43% of total residential lending activity in the past 15 years.
This represents two to three times the size of the first home buyer market.
In the year to June 2016, growth in the number of loans to upgraders was 7.1% nationally.
However, upgrader demand varies by state.
Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia, Australian Capital Territory, Queensland and Tasmania saw growth in loans to upgraders during 2015/16.
In contrast, in Western Australia and the Northern Territory the number of loans to upgraders declined in 2015/16, following on from declines in the previous year. Similarly, upgrader loans declined in Tasmania in 2015/16, although this was after growth in 2014/15.
In Western Australia, there was a less significant decline in loans in June quarter 2016, suggesting that the pace of decline is slowing and the market will soon bottom out, whereas in the Northern Territory the number of loans to upgraders experienced a greater annual decline in June quarter 2016.
<a href="/images/2016/10/13/Chart%206.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/10/13/Chart%206.jpg" alt="">
The ABS provides data on residential investment in terms of the value of total loans rather than the number of loans. As a result, changes in the value of loans over time reflect a change in values for property and purchaser volumes.
All states reported double digit decreases in lending for residential investment in 2015/16 after strong annual rises up to the peak in 2014/15. Year on year declines were still being recorded in June quarter 2016.
Investment lending in Victoria, Queensland, Western Australia and Tasmania recorded the smallest annual decline in investment loans in 2015/16.
The Northern Territory and South Australia recorded the highest decline in lending for residential investment during 2015/16.
<a href="/images/2016/10/13/Chart%207.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Upgraders dominating residential lending activity: QBE Housing Outlook

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A standard dwelling in Byron Bay will cost between $700,000 and $1 million, according to Herron Todd White’s (HTW) latest monthly market report.
The property advisory firm says that for the same price range for a standard dwelling in Byron, a buyer could get a good quality home newly renovated in nearby Lennox.
In Mullumbimby and Ocean Shores the most favoured price point is between $500,000 and $750,000 for a standard dwelling.
An example would be a three bedroom home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-mullumbimby-123828414" target="_blank">6 Hibiscus Place</a> (pictured above) that is for sale for $649,000.
The main demographic for this price point is owner occupiers, predominantly a mix of local buyers trading up and people relocating from the major cities.
The main reason that this price point is so favoured is due to this bracket offering an affordable coastal living family home to middle income earners who want to enjoy the resort style of living, HTW said. 
The slowest price point in the region are for prestige properties priced $4 million and above.
These properties are pretty much only available to the rich and famous and are either owner occupied or kept as holiday accommodation.
Although there are more transactions taking place at the moment, it is still a very thinly traded sector of the market with a high level of volatility.
Another slow price point is secondary rural residential areas. The buyers in this range tend to be local buyers, however, due to these locations being that little bit further away from the towns and airports, they trend towards the slower price point category.
The most favoured price points in Ballina are between $500,000 and $650,000 which tends to be owner occupiers, particularly young families.
"You will get a standard dwelling in this price bracket which includes recently built houses," the report noted.
These are considered the most affordable dwellings in the region for families.
Families priced out of this bracket in Ballina can move slightly further inland to Wollongbar where they can build a new standard home for between $450,000 and $550,000.
The slowest price point for the area is anything priced over $1 million.
Although the area has seen a few good sales over the $1 million mark, transactions are limited.
Professional couples are the most likely buyer group over this price point, HTW noted.
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Standard Byron Bay home options at $700,000 plus: HTW

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A Pakenham rural property with character, charm and, most importantly, potential is up for November auction.
The 1.44 acre property, located at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-land+development-vic-pakenham-502140478" target="_blank">65 Racecourse Road, Pakenham</a>, dates back to the 1920's Bourke family, who were prominent graziers and horse racing identities.
The prominent Pakenham landmark is set amongst mature oak trees in a fine garden, while the large weatherboard home has broad timber decked return verandas.
The interior with 10 foot ceilings and wide timber panelled passage ways offers four generously proportioned bedrooms, plus study and two stately living rooms complete with original fire places, ornamental ceiling and with double hung sash windows throughout.
The country style eat-in kitchen still has the original combustion stove in place, plus family bathroom and sun room. The original racing stables are still in place.
The property offers a unique opportunity to restore to its former glory and/ or further develop (STCA). It is positioned with access to the M1 Freeway, public transport and major shopping and services.
Initial terms is a 10% deposit with balance 30/60 days.
The property is offered through First National Commercial agents Todd McKenna and Nyall Greene and is set to go under the hammer on November 12.
There is a racing property also listed at Coral Lynn.
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1920s weatherboard home and former racing stables at Pakenham slated for auction

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<div>
In his first speech as Reserve Bank of Australia governor, Philip Lowe left the door open to further official rate cuts so long as inflation remains low.
He also suggested there could be a fresh surge in Sydney house prices.
He said that inflation is likely to remain low and that the economy is still some way from generating enough jobs to reignite strong wages growth.
"We too have now joined the club of countries with headline inflation noticeably below the medium-term average, although we are a more recent member than many others," he said.
"Headline inflation here is 1 per cent and measures of underlying inflation are running at around 1.5 per cent.
</div>
<div><img src="https://ci6.googleusercontent.com/proxy/APq8nbMYSluOKgE4Cy8-wBMf3ZAnBKPD2VfcjLlQD6XOxylEsNMf7FBzSE2lfkqu8EYymJkIDu9o2JcX46tpz38jisjV4NzVu-fAI78j0V_TLVteSW8Ppd3F975HHZpY6QzQsva4xNCc8VwCekf6VAi7Rkv1rypzQVU-4rFyV8j62Q=s0-d-e1-ft#https://www.afr.com/content/dam/images/g/s/4/j/8/z/image.imgtype.afrArticleInline.620x0.png/1476741841997.jpg" alt=" " width="345" height="343"></div>
<div>
<h2> </h2>
<div>Lowe revealed figures and research from the Australian Bureau of Statistics and bank officials which shows a big fall in the size and frequency of wage gains in recent years.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Six years ago, almost 40 percent of the 18,000 individual job categories tracked by the ABS received a wage increase of between two and three percent.</div>
<div>
By contrast, less than 10 percent of jobs got this type of wage increase and almost half had a wage increase of between two and three percent.
</div>
<div>
"Looking to the future, we expect that the various factors holding inflation down will continue for a while yet," Lowe said.
"But this does not mean that we have drifted into a world of permanently lower inflation in Australia."
He said the economy should gradually strengthen as the negative drag caused by the end of the mining boom exhausts and the labour market tightens.
</div>
<div>The bank are determined to ensure inflation quickens, Lowe said. He highlighted they wanted to avoid the trap that countries like Japan have fallen into.</div>
Lowe described the housing picture as 'complex'. It's one of the sectors of the economy at greatest risk of a blow out if rates are cut too low. 
</div>
"Prices seem to be increasing quite briskly again in some areas, although are falling in others," he said.
"Growth in rents is very low and there is a big increase in housing supply still to come. 
<div>
"To add to the picture, credit growth is still exceeding income growth, although by a smaller margin than last year.
"It is also noteworthy that much of this credit is being used to finance new housing construction rather than consumption."
He suggested inflation should pick up over the next two years, however said it's still likely to be "closer to two percent than three percent."
</div>
<div>Lowe said that achieving the quickest return of inflation would be unlikely to be in the public interest.</div>
<div>
"Achieving the quickest return of inflation back to 2.5 per cent would be unlikely to be in the public interest if it came at the cost of a weakening of balance sheets and an unsustainable build-up of leverage in response to historically low interest rates," he said.
"Conversely, the case for moving more quickly would be strengthened in a world where the labour market was deteriorating and people were having increasing difficulty finding jobs."
</div>
<div>The new governor defended the Reserve Bank's ability to be flexible about maintaining its 2 to 3 percent inflation target.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>He suggested he doesn't believe in even more dramatic interest rate cuts. </div>
<div>
Lowe concluded by highlighting the GFC, admitting it has left "scars" by creating uncertainty and a lack of job security for companies and workers.
"This increased value put on job security has made many workers less inclined to push for large wage rises."
</div>
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Price growth mixed nationally but Sydney brisk: RBA 

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An experimental 1950s Eltham house is for sale with $820,000 to $900,000 price guidance.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-eltham-123904402" target="_blank">The Rice House</a> comprises of two separate structures built in the mid-1950s, one with four lumps containing kitchen, living, dining and master bedroom, and the other with two lumps housing a self-contained flat.
The igloo-style building on 4000 sq m at Ryans Road was commissioned to the mid-century Melbourne architect Kevin Borland.
It was the first commercial construction by the noted Melbourne bush builder Alistair Knox.
Its structure formed of catenary or self-supporting arches is heritage-listed. Kevin Borland was an innovative young architects having worked firstly with Harry Seidler.
Clients Harrie and Lorna Rice were seeking something "avant-garde" as their “first and only house”.
Having spent their lives there until Harrie Rice and later his wife, Lorna died, the house has now been listed for sale.
In accordance to their parents’ wishes, Mrs Parker is hoping “the extremely experimental building” will be bought by someone who will love it and restore it with due respect.
“I want to do the right thing by the house,” told Fairfax Media. 
She asked her agents, Eltham’s Morrison Kleeman, to deter developers from purchasing it “and destroying its integrity by cramming it.
"I hope that whoever gets it will reinstate it”.
She also hopes the draped concrete canopy that once connected the two buildings will be reconstructed.
In buildings that have been compared to a sequence of concrete caves, “or concrete igloos, or Nissan huts”, the construction that required wooden arches to be overlaid with hessian that was then coated in three layers of concrete, were completely hand-made.
“I spent a lot of time on that roof”, she said.
“There is something very organic and very primal about the house," she said about the house that was always full of intellectuals and academics. 
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Modernistic igloo 1950s Victorian Rice house listed at Eltham

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Liquidators have been appointed to Home Australia, with customers whose homes are under construction by any builders in the group urged to contact the insurer per the Insurance Certificate issued with their home building contract.
Construction on 207 properties around the country has been put on hold.
Home Australia is owned by Family First senator Bob Day, who has announced his resignation from Federal Parliament.
Home Australia operates in five Australian States under the brands:
<ul>
<li>Homestead Homes in South Australia (new homes presently under construction – 48); 
</li>
<li>Collier Homes in Western Australia (new homes presently under construction – 29); 
</li>
<li>Newstart Homes in Queensland (new homes presently under construction – 17); 
</li>
<li>Ashford Homes in Victoria (new homes presently under construction – 57); and 
</li>
<li>Huxley Homes in New South Wales (new homes presently under construction – 56).</li>
</ul>
Liquidators McGrathNicol said in cases where no Insurance Certificate has been issued, customers may have a claim against the relevant Home Australia entity which they contracted with.
"The Liquidators’ immediate objective is to work constructively with relevant insurers and customers in an effort to facilitate the orderly recommencement of construction of uncompleted homes by alternative builders. We will communicate with customers in writing in the coming days," McGrathNicol said.
"In accordance with the Liquidators’ duties, the financial affairs of Home Australia will also be investigated so that the Liquidators may report to creditors and to the Australian Securities and Investments Commission.
"The Liquidators’ invite parties interested in acquiring the businesses and/or assets of Home Australia in whole or in part to contact McGrathNicol on (03) 9038 3100.
"Meetings of creditors for each entity must be held within 18 days of the appointment of liquidators. The meetings of creditors will be convened for 4 November 2016 or earlier. Meeting notices setting out times and locations will be distributed to Home Australia’s creditors and customers at least seven days in advance of the meetings."
<a href="/images/2016/10/17/Annexure%20A.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/10/17/Annexure%20A.jpg" alt="">
Information for customers and creditors will be uploaded to the McGrathNicol website <a href="https://www.mcgrathnicol.com" target="_blank">here</a>.
 
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Liquidation of Home Australia to hit house and land owners

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One of Australia’s fastest-growing suburbs took out top honours at national urban design awards.
The City of Sydney’s Green Square town centre was a winner at the 2016 Australian Urban Design Awards.
Lord Mayor Clover Moore said the prestigious national award reflected on the City’s commitment to excellent urban design.
There was also a win for Sydney Park's water re-use project.
“This is a win for our inner city communities, who’ve come with us on the journey of great urban design, and it’s a win for our fantastic staff teams and partners on these projects,” the Lord Mayor said.
“We’re focused on meeting the needs of our communities with great spaces and facilities that residents, businesses and visitors can enjoy and be inspired by.
“In Green Square, we’re revitalising the area’s heritage charm with innovative and sustainable design that reflects the growing community. Our long-term planning and design for the town centre represents a strong and truly coordinated vision – the community’s local knowledge, needs and hopes for the town centre helped shape its development.
“Our Sydney Park water re-use project brought together excellent design, science and sustainability to create a significant new piece of green infrastructure. This innovative design allows for the cleaning and reuse of 340 Olympic-sized swimming pools worth of local storm water runoff from Newtown each year.”
The multi-award winning Sydney Park water re-use project won the Delivered Outcome – Large Scale category award, while Green Square was awarded the Urban Design, Policies, Programs and Concepts – Large Scale category.
Green Square is bringing culture and creativity to the doorstep of 61,000 people who will soon live in the area, with a new town centre set to boast sustainable infrastructure and world-class community facilities.
Features will include a library, childcare centre, creative hub, aquatic and recreational centre, more than 15 parks, and Australia's biggest residential stormwater harvesting and treatment system.
The Sydney Park water re-use project harvests and treats up to 850 million litres of stormwater from Newtown’s Munni Street catchment each year. The water is used to irrigate the 44-hectare parkland and supply water to a neighbouring depot.
The Australian Urban Design Awards, awarded by the Planning Institute of Australia, is one of the nation’s largest urban design competitions.
Established in 1996 by Prime Minister Paul Keating, the program recognises contemporary Australian urban design projects of the highest quality.
The 2016 judging panel included representatives from the Australian Institute of Architects, Australian Institute of Landscape Architects, Government Architects Network Australia, Green Building Council of Australia, Consult Australia, Engineers Australia, Australian Sustainable Built Environment Council and Urban Design Forum.
The judges commended the Green Square town centre project for its creation of a mixed-use neighbourhood on former industrial land with high-quality public spaces and community infrastructure.
“A major public square is the outcome of an international design competition and forms the social heart of this vibrant community. Research, collaboration, community engagement and ongoing monitoring are critical components that distinguish this comprehensive urban design strategy,” the judges said.
The judges said the Sydney Park water re-use project design “provides a bold, high-quality and conscientious enhancement of public space that is interconnected with the surrounding urban environment through water collection and re-use.”
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Sydney's Green Square urban design project wins award

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Raine &amp; Horne's website has won an award at the 2016 Asia Pacific Property Awards 2016 held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Raine &amp; Horne has now completed a Phase 2 enhancement of their website, <a href="https://www.rh.com.au" target="_blank">rh.com.au</a>.
The rollout of the Phase involved extensive development and testing, and the focus for the enhancements was threefold, according to  Angus Raine, Executive Chairman, Raine &amp; Horne.
“The first objective involved revising the user interface to put more focus on calls to action such as ‘find an agent’ and ‘appraisal requests’,” he said.
"The second step involved simplifying and streamlining the search function, enabling properties to be displayed with one click and then allowing users to refine the search parameters.
“A recent Microsoft study found that our online attention span is down to 8 seconds. So if customers can’t find easily find what they’re looking for fast, they’re onto the next site.
“With this research in mind, we’ve streamlined the website’s search functions to help consumers find what they’re looking for rapidly and to keep them coming back to Raine &amp; Horne.”
“Thirdly, we were determined the transition to the new design would not require a significant learning curve for office administrators or create additional work for our offices, and would have minimal impact on existing content.
“I’m happy to say it’s been a case of mission accomplished in relation to meeting the three objectives, and the finished product has been well received by our customers, offices and the wider international real estate community.”
Bill Russell, Raine &amp; Horne’s General Manager International, was on hand to collect the award, along with Ms Zaidatul Adawlyah Zaki of Raine &amp; Horne Malaysia. 
“We know the Raine &amp; Horne website is ever-evolving, and we work closely with our network to ensure we meet both their needs and those of our customers,” said Mr Raine.
“As such, we conducted a detailed design process for the enhancement of our residential website with a working group that included members of our corporate IT and marketing teams and representatives from our 300-plus global office network.”
However, Mr Raine has foreshadowed that these will not be the last of the changes to the Raine &amp; Horne website, as the real estate market and technology continues to evolve.
 
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Raine & Horne ramps up website

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Property developer Michael Kelly has sold his Surfers Paradise home for $10.2 million, the fourth highest sale on the Gold Coast in 2016.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-paradise+waters-122700578">The home,</a> which took Kelly two years to build, sold to a Chinese national with a temporary visa and foreign investment approval. 
Just off the Nerang River on a block totalling 2,295 sqm, the five bedroom mansion was designed by Jared Poole. It features a home theatre, gym and temperature controlled wine cellar.
Offering 98 metres of river frontage, the home has a 15 metre pontoon, secure boat storage and ramp.
The sale was the highlight of a very quiet Golden Week for Chinese acquisitions across Australia.
Golden Week is a semi-annual holiday in China, where some of the countries richest head to Australia for holidays and a spot of property shopping.
The property was listed for Golden Week last year for $12.5 million but those expectations were slashed to $11 million by the time of its sale.
Savills QLD agents Lisa Haplin and Christopher Jones secured the sale.
This article was first published in the Weekend Australian Mansion Australia property section.
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Gold Coast developer secures $10.2 million Surfers Paradise home sale

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The popular Channel 7 trackside horse racing presenter Francesca Cumani and her polo playing husband Rob Archibald have bought a Sydney bolthole.
It is a $2.48 million Randwick penthouse, not far from the track.
The purchase came following the birth of the couple's first child, Harry, in April.
The UK-born Cumani is busy with the Emirates Spring Carnival.
Having studied languages at university, Cumani came to Australia in 2006 with father, the UK based trainer Luca Cumani, to run Glistening in the Melbourne Cup.
Cumani's career soon shone. 
After finishing runner up with Purple Moon (2007) and Bauer (2008), Francesca received an unexpected request from Channel 7 asking to join their Melbourne Cup panel.
Having since hosted The Winning Post on CNN, the English born TV star has just been announced as part of the UK team covering ITV's flat racing for the next four years alongside Sky Sports veteran Ed Chamberlin who has switched to ITV.
Cumani has insider-knowledge aplenty. She grew up in the Newmarket stables of her Derby-winning father Luca and rode as an amateur.
Francesca is now an ambassador for next January's Magic Millions.
The 2017 Magic Millions event will introduce polo for the first time, with an exhibition match between ambassadors Cumani, equestrian champion Royal Zara Phillips and some of the best players in the world, including Cumani's husband Rob Archibald.
Cumani married Archibald, one of Australia's top ranked polo players, in 2014. He is heir to a 70 year legacy of polo pony breeding, training and playing.
Francesca brother Matt Cumani is also in the horse racing world. 
Beginning his training at Ballarat, Matt has shot onto the scene as a trainer of international horse Grey Lion, which runs in the Geelong Cup later this month.
Grey Lion is chasing a start in the Melbourne Cup, however would need a weight penalty to make the final field.
Their three bedroom, two bathroom apartment sits atop the award-winning Pindari complex featuring an expansive split-level layout.
Its a spacious 291 sqm apartment that encourages indoor and outdoor living amid tranquil treescape vista.
It was bought from Adam Geha, who paid $1.01 million in 2005, was the architect behind the complex which won the 2009 RAIA National Architecture Award for Multi-Unit Residential
It had previously been a $2,000 a week rental before being sold by N G Farah Real Estate Coogee agent Peter McGuire.
It had been on the market for just under a year.
This article was first published in the Saturday Daily Telegraph.
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Horse racing trackside star Francesca Cumani buys Randwick penthouse 

Buying into a masterplanned community often means committing to a vision still years from taking shape. At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a>, that vision is already visible.

Residents have moved into the completed first stage, landscaped spaces are established, and the next chapter is now underway. Stage 1 has been completed and settled, with Stage 2 now selling off-the-plan.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/pbd-architects">PBD Architects</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> combines attainable apartment living with sustainability initiatives rarely seen at this price point, including rooftop solar, battery storage and a resident EV-sharing program.

<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/6RNt3AvtBpI?si=JUhuCV2ZRXsYaoJZ" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Located on Schofi​elds Road, just moments from Tal​lawong Metro Station and Schof​ields Train Station, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> has been designed to appeal to a broad mix of buyers, from first-home purchasers looking for a foothold in Sy​dney's property market to downsizers seeking a connected, low-maintenance lifestyle.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> has been conceived as a thoughtfully planned masterplanned community that will evolve over multiple stages, with buyers now able to secure one, two and three-bedroom apartments within a neighbourhood that is already beginning to establish its identity.

One of the project's defining features is its focus on sustainability. Solar energy systems, battery storage and future EV charging infrastructure have been incorporated throughout the development, reflecting a long-term approach to both environmental performance and everyday convenience.

Sustainability sits at the centre of the development's vision, with solar energy systems, battery storage and future EV charging infrastructure integrated throughout the community.

That emphasis on future-ready living extends beyond the technology. Landscaped communal gardens, outdoor gathering spaces and plans for a future retail precinct aim to create a neighbourhood where residents can access daily conveniences without travelling far from home.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149637 project_image_fid=351027]

The apartments themselves have been designed with liveability front of mind. Rather than chasing maximum density, the focus has been placed on creating practical homes with generous natural light, usable layouts and strong connections to outdoor space.

Importantly, these design principles have been applied consistently across the one, two and three-bedroom apartment offerings.

The appeal of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> is also closely linked to its location within Syd​ney's rapidly evolving north-west growth corridor. Over the past decade, major infrastructure investment has transformed the area, with new transport links, business precincts and community facilities reshaping suburbs like Talla​wong and Schofiel​ds.

The agent says buyers are increasingly recognising the area's long-term potential.

"Typical buyers that we're finding across <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> especially are your first-home buyers, your investors, your upsizers as well as your downsizers," Hawes says.

Connectivity remains one of the project's strongest drawcards. Residents have access to both Tallaw​ong Metro Station and Schofi​elds Train Station, providing links to the Sydn​ey CBD, Norw​est Business Park, Macquari​e Park and other major employment hubs. Retail centres including Rous​e Hill Town Centre and Sch​ofields Village are also nearby, alongside schools, parks and future healthcare infrastructure.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149637 project_image_fid=351031]

For Stage 1 resident Roji, it is the balance between convenience and comfort that has defined the experience of living at Kew.

"For me, it's a balance of quality and convenience," she says. "Everything I need is right here."

"If I wanted to catch the train, Scho​fields Station is just around the corner. Tallaw​ong Metro connects me to the city."

More importantly, she says, the development has delivered something that cannot be measured in floorplans or specifications.

"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> feels like home."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149637 project_image_fid=351024]

As Stage 2 enters the market, that lived experience may be one of the project's strongest selling points. Buyers are not purchasing into an untested concept or a future promise. They are joining a community that is already taking shape.

Ongoing investment in transport, retail, healthcare and public open space continues to strengthen the appeal of Syd​ney's north-west growth corridor, while <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a>'s established first stage provides buyers with a tangible sense of the community's future direction.

For a limited time, buyer can secure a new home at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> with just a $10,000.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=149637]

Joel Robinson

Kew Tallawong: A growing community taking shape in Sydney's north-west

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/freecity">Freecity</a> has received development approval for its 51-storey mixed-use tower at 153-157 Walker Street, North Sydney, set to be one of the tallest mixed-use residential-led buildings in one of Sydney’s most sought-after commercial and residential addresses.

Lodged as a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) through the Housing Delivery Authority (HDA) pathway and approved by the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure following a comprehensive public exhibition and submissions process, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/153-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">the project</a> will deliver 296 apartments, alongside a 170-room, luxury hotel, activated retail and significant public domain improvements.

Situated just 200 metres from Victoria Cross Metro Station, on one of the largest developable sites in North Sydney, the development will rise to 234 metres, making it one of the tallest buildings in the suburb. With an end value of approximately $1.5 billion, the project responds directly to the NSW Government’s mandate to accelerate housing delivery in well-located, transit-connected areas.

<img alt="Freecity gets green light for mixed-use residential and hotel tower in North Sydney" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="192ec455-94bf-4e01-83ef-922b1b269d67" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Freecity%20-%20Walker%20Street%20North%20Sydney%201%20RESIZED%20.jpg?VersionId=Bzqp0SBHCDvLAHjA4QXkjuGoOEIh73Jl" />

The apartment mix will cater to a broad range of buyers, with 65 studio and one-bedroom apartments, 139 two-bedroom residences, 35 three-bedroom apartments, 48 four-bedroom homes, and nine penthouses. Residents will have access to a dedicated amenity level on Level 33, featuring a swimming pool with views towards the Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House and North Sydney CBD, as well as a gym, library, shared kitchen, lounge and outdoor entertaining areas.

The hotel will occupy the lower six levels of the building and include meeting and function spaces, a wellness centre with gym, yoga studio, swimming pool and sauna, further strengthening North Sydney's growing hospitality offering.

At ground level, the development has been designed to improve pedestrian connections through the precinct. More than 700 sqm of retail space will activate the street frontage, while a landscaped through-site link connecting Walker Street, Little Walker Street and Doris Fitton Park will provide new public open space with seating, paving and extensive native landscaping.

Freecity Group Co-Founder and Joint CEO Tony Sun said the project represents one of the most significant development opportunities currently available in North Sydney.

"This is one of the most significant development sites in North Sydney and it comes at a pivotal moment for the precinct," Sun said.

"North Sydney is undergoing a genuine transformation, and this project will contribute housing the city urgently needs while creating a landmark destination."

Executive Director of Development Michael Romano said demand for both residential and hotel accommodation would continue to strengthen as the Metro precinct matures.

"The structural demand for high-quality housing and hotel accommodation in North Sydney is compelling, and will only grow as the precinct continues to evolve around the new Metro station," Romano said.

Architectus has designed the tower, orientating the apartments to maximise views towards Sydney Harbour while introducing a sculpted façade intended to respond to light, wind and the surrounding skyline.

Architectus Principal Marko Damic said the design sought to create a tower that contributes to the public realm as much as the skyline.

"We wanted to design a tower that doesn't just sit in the skyline but actively participates and contributes to city life," Damic said.

First look: Freecity gets green light for mixed-use apartment and hotel tower in North Sydney

<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. 
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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.

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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. 
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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. 
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"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.

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"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."

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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."

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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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Staff reporter

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