<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/s-p-setia">SP Setia</a> has lodged plans for a $750 million, three-tower mixed-use precinct that would complete the long-running redevelopment of Carlton's former Carlton United Breweries site.

The proposal at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/185-195-queensberry-street-carlton-vic-3053">46-78 Bouverie Street and 185-195 Queensberry Street</a> spans a 6,468 sqm site, the last remaining undeveloped parcels within the former brewery's 2007 masterplan.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">COX Architecture</a>, the development will comprise two purpose-built student accommodation towers and a third build-to-sell apartment tower above a shared commercial podium and basement.

Across the three towers, SP Setia is proposing 606 build-to-sell apartments and 1,499 student accommodation units containing 2,009 beds.

The apartments will sit in the tallest tower, which will rise nearly 200m and 55 storeys. It will become&nbsp;one of the more substantial new build-to-sell apartment projects at the northern edge of Melbourne's CBD.

The apartment mix is weighted toward smaller inner-city product, with 188 studios, 206 one-bedroom apartments, 192 two-bedroom apartments and 20 three-bedroom apartments

<img alt="First look: SP Setia plans three-tower finale for Carlton’s former CUB precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8271bc87-1b0a-41b7-ac73-a425ee375261" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/3_2.png?VersionId=G4lw23o90B1boX4k4dj7rdz2ZEajS9wy" />

Part of the precinct will be a large-scale&nbsp;3,684 sqm supermarket and a further 2,198 sqm of speciality retail, creating close to 5,900 sqm of new commercial space within the precinct.

But one of the biggest components of the proposal is what sits between the buildings.

Around 4,650 sqm, or roughly 72 per cent of the site, will be publicly accessible open space, incorporating plazas, pedestrian connections, landscaped laneways and retail spill-out areas.

The ground plane is intended to finally complete pedestrian connections envisaged when the CUB masterplan was first approved nearly two decades ago, stitching together Victoria Street, Queensberry Street, Bouverie Street and Swanston Street through the former brewery precinct.

Urbis said the development would "complete the CUB precinct", with the public realm providing important north-south and east-west connections through what is currently the final undeveloped portion of the masterplanned site.

SP Setia is also exploring a new linear park within the Bouverie Street road reserve, with the concept to be developed further with the City of Melbourne through the planning process.

The proposal is being pursued through the Victorian Government's Development Facilitation Program under Clause 53.23 for significant residential development with affordable housing.

The planning report acknowledges the proposed heights exceed those contemplated under the original Comprehensive Development Plan and masterplan, but argues the built-form context has changed considerably over the past two decades.

Urbis said the three towers would instead create a stepped transition between Carlton and the Hoddle Grid, rising progressively from the 94.1-metre Tower One along the Queensberry Street edge to the 199.44-metre Tower Three closer to the established CBD-scale buildings to the south.

<img alt="SP Setia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e885a07a-592c-40fc-bf82-e6dbaf32da54" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-21%20at%208.52.24%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=7s_ErUkSKAdY1mAWp3GRZgMNCGtwhk5m" />

SP Setia plans to deliver the development across three stages.

Stage One would deliver the basement, podium and retail areas for the entire precinct alongside the first student tower. Tower Two would follow in Stage Two, before the 606-apartment Tower Three is delivered as the final stage.

If approved and delivered, the project would close out a redevelopment process that has been underway since the former brewery masterplan was approved in 2007, adding more than 2,600 student beds and apartments to a precinct already home to Swanston Central, the Barak Building, RMIT Design Hub and several large student accommodation developments.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Joel Robinson

SP Setia plans three-tower finale for Carlton’s former CUB precinct

Melbourne developer Lowe Living is seeking to add to its growing bayside apartment pipeline, filing plans for a boutique eight-residence development in tightly held Middle Park.

Lowe Living, which has built much of its development portfolio across Melbourne's affluent bayside and south-east suburbs, is behind the plans for the 730 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/123-125-erskine-street-middle-park-vic-3206">123-125 Erskine Street</a>, just off Armstrong Street and within the Armstrong Street Neighbourhood Activity Centre.

The developer is seeking approval for a five-storey residential building above two basement levels, with just eight large-format apartments and 18 car spaces.

“This is a deliberately very different proposition for us,"&nbsp;Tim Lowe, Co-Founder of Lowe Living, said.

"Eight residences is exceptionally boutique, but that's precisely what this site calls for.

“There is a strong community in Middle Park and the surrounding suburbs who have spent decades building a life here. They no longer want the maintenance of a large period home, but they aren't prepared to compromise on space, quality or location. We think there is a real opportunity to capture that hyper local market. A site like this rarely comes to market.”

<img alt="Lowe " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="875fe572-0f14-4d90-9e11-55b28dd07731" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-21%20at%208.42.49%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=GDNQRv9BfpR9r1zkZ5UDyUM4ZvpIksut" />

The low-density proposal has been designed by Cera Stribley and is being progressed through the Victorian Government's Great Design Fast Track pathway, having already secured eligibility from the Minister for Planning.

The Office of the Victorian Government Architect supported its eligibility after finding the proposal demonstrated consistency with the program's seven design principles, while the project's financial feasibility has also been independently confirmed by Invest Victoria.

The project is targeting the downsizer market, with the planning documents describing the homes as larger-format residences and noting the two penthouses could otherwise have been configured as four separate apartments.

<img alt="Lowe 2" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="60ab0987-2da6-4175-adac-315dcf6053c6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-21%20at%208.43.15%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=bOCPH0B2MFwlmaRW.TTCF9TzyifgVoQI" />

The site has dual frontage to Erskine Street and Canterbury Place and currently comprises a collection of commercial buildings used as offices, including a former heritage bakehouse, a former stable, a later gabled addition and a central courtyard.

It sits within the Commercial 1 Zone and the Armstrong Street Commercial Precinct heritage overlay, with the existing property classified as a contributory heritage place.

Heritage has subsequently played a significant role in Cera Stribley's design.

The front section of the former bakehouse facing Erskine Street will be retained, including its return walls, street-facing hipped roof and chimneys, while the Erskine Street façade and part of the western return wall of the former stable will also be incorporated into the new development.

Levels four and five will be set back five metres from the retained stable façade, while bricks removed through demolition are proposed to be salvaged and reused within the new building where possible.

<img alt="Lowe 3" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e97927a9-a2de-4a0f-83b6-65451238abfa" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-21%20at%208.43.06%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=VR44AChLrX9q1XPB9GvVQV.ALXXbe4gC" />

Rather than presenting as a single five-storey building to Erskine Street, Cera Stribley has broken the development into a series of distinct forms.

A three-storey infill element will sit between the retained bakehouse and stable façades, with the upper levels recessed behind the heritage fabric. Canterbury Place will similarly feature two three-storey podium forms, separated by a central pedestrian accessway, before the upper two levels step back from the street.

A pedestrian through-link will run through the centre of the project between Erskine Street and Canterbury Place, creating entrances from both sides of the site and introducing landscaping and communal areas through the ground plane.

Landscape architect Acre has designed planting across the ground level, private terraces and upper levels, including a feature canopy tree at level three and integrated planting and arbours across the level four terraces. Five existing Erskine Street trees are proposed to be retained.

Sustainability is also a significant component of the Great Design Fast Track application. The apartments are targeting an average eight-star NatHERS rating, with no residence below 6.5 stars, while the project has achieved a 75 per cent BESS score. Seven of the eight apartments are designed for cross-ventilation, with the remaining residence using mechanically assisted natural ventilation.

The plans also incorporate an 8kWp rooftop solar system, a 5,000-litre rainwater tank and infrastructure allowing future electric vehicle charging for every residence.

Lowe has a strong portfolio across Melbourne's blue-chip suburbs. They recently launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/jardin-house-by-lowe-living-camberwell-335-camberwell-road-camberwell-vic-3124">Jardin House by Lowe Living</a> in Camberwell, their first development in the Stonnington LGA.

Lowe Living unveils Middle Park apartment development

Article summary

<ul data-end="888" data-start="289">
	<li data-end="442" data-section-id="8tsh6o" data-start="289">DVB Projects is preparing to launch its second Gold Coast apartment development, with demolition now underway at 137 Old Burleigh Road, Broadbeach.</li>
	<li data-end="573" data-section-id="1nyxl3e" data-start="443">The 34-level tower will comprise just 49 ultra-luxury residences, including half-floor, full-floor and penthouse apartments.</li>
	<li data-end="717" data-section-id="oiyimj" data-start="574">The launch follows strong demand at DVB's nearby Sea Glass project, which is more than 50 per cent sold and currently under construction.</li>
	<li data-end="888" data-section-id="epk9o9" data-start="718">The development adds to the transformation of Old Burleigh Road, with premium beachfront apartment projects continuing to reshape the tightly held Broadbeach strip.</li>
</ul>

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/dvb-projects">DVB Projects</a> is preparing to launch its second Gold Coast apartment development, with demolition now underway on the Broadbeach site as the Sydney developer moves closer to bringing the ultra-luxury project to market.

The 34-level tower at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/137-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach-qld-4218">137 Old Burleigh Road</a> will comprise just 49 residences, ranging from half-floor apartments through to full-floor homes and a penthouse. The launch follows the strong sales performance of DVB's nearby Sea Glass development. More than half of the apartments at Sea Glass, on the other side of Broadbeach, have been snapped up, well ahead of its late 2027 completion

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2944b4be-c84e-4b54-8dc1-c712e76704c0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/E02_Exterior_Street%20Level%20Entrance.jpg?VersionId=YoNig7pRdrE3HCue7sUj78LzJteeQf3H" />

The start of demolition at 137 Old Burleigh Road signals DVB Projects’ underlying confidence in the Gold Coast’s luxury beachside apartment sector.

“We see the Gold Coast as one of the most compelling lifestyle markets in Australia, particularly at the premium end where demand continues to deepen,” said Dean Brown, Managing Director of DVB.&nbsp;

“This project has been carefully designed to respond to that demand - delivering large-format residences with a level of quality, privacy and amenity that is still relatively rare in the apartment market on the beachside."

Brown says the site itself is "exceptional."

"Old Burleigh Road is one of the most tightly held beachfront strips, and opportunities to deliver a project of this scale and calibre in this location are extremely limited.”

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="398f377a-c037-455e-9250-0c5e0d84c35b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/I12_FF%20Balcony.jpg?VersionId=NwOiRWGMubR1c8wthuEfggklcja7al9." />

The project will comprise 40 half-floor residences of approximately 260 sqm, alongside eight full-floor residences spanning around 524 sqm.

A single penthouse will crown the building, featuring a private pool, barbecue area, indoor gym and dedicated entertaining spaces.

Residents will have access to a resort-style suite of amenities, including a 20-metre pool with daybeds, a gymnasium, hot and cold plunge pools, a sauna, and private residents’ lounge and dining facilities.

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d1642bb0-9a66-4427-a022-dfc0988c6287" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/A02_Pool%20to%20View.jpg?VersionId=c0IXPyn_Gp_Kn3XCwzMrqIVkAdCEwVXP" />

Sales agent Todd Matheson, of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/pezet-matheson">Pezet Matheson</a>, which is marketing both 137 Old Burleigh Road and Sea Glass, said 137 Old Burleigh Road would address a clear gap in the market for genuine luxury products.

“There are very few opportunities on the Gold Coast where buyers can secure a residence of this size and quality in a new building,” Matheson said.

“What we’re seeing is a growing cohort of downsizers and interstate buyers who still want space - they’re not willing to compromise on living area, entertaining or finishes.

“This project has been designed with that buyer in mind. It offers the scale of a home, combined with the convenience and security of apartment living, in one of the coast’s most desirable positions.”

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="59aae0ca-5639-4320-8aca-d0bf60f48e43" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/E01_Exterior%20Hero.jpg?VersionId=DS8Zfy2WtgUEtdfe0TEUuf1W1GfcZq8S" />

Located on a 1,156 sqm site one block from the beachfront, the development will replace an ageing walk-up building and is expected to contribute to the ongoing transformation of the Old Burleigh Road strip into one of the Gold Coast’s most prestigious residential corridors.

With the development moving into the delivery phase, 137 Old Burleigh Road is slated to hit the market later this year.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=145141]

DVB Projects to launch second Broadbeach apartment tower as demolition commences

<a data-end="327" data-is-only-node="" data-start="250" href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/norus-projects" rel="noopener" target="_new">Norus Developments</a> has lodged plans for a new apartment development in Clayton that would add further momentum to the suburb's emerging Green Street corridor.

Plans have been lodged for the consolidated site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/1359-1365-centre-road-clayton-vic-3168">1359-1365 Centre Road</a>, where Norus is seeking approval for 218 apartments across a 12-storey apartment building designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/life-architecture-and-urban-design">Life Architecture</a>.

The proposal sits within the Clayton Major Activity Centre at the threshold of the planned Green Street corridor, a landscaped pedestrian connection intended to improve links through the precinct towards Clayton Railway Station.

The development would replace the site's existing collection of low-scale residential and commercial buildings with a single consolidated building, introducing significantly greater housing density to this part of Centre Road.

A retail tenancy is proposed at ground level to activate the Centre Road frontage, accompanied by transparent street interfaces and landscaping intended to create a more pedestrian-focused edge to the development.

<img alt="First look: Norus Developments plans landscape-led apartment project for Clayton’s emerging Green Street" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0a5a763a-d9e9-4253-af2f-88008de27ebf" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Clayton%20a.png?VersionId=S2WJJbat1XVkZwB9SnYtygirXgWHiklX" />

The building has been designed with stepped massing and upper-level setbacks to manage its transition towards surrounding residential properties. The planning report describes the approach as one that integrates the building into the landscape rather than treating landscaping as a secondary element.

"A strong landscape and public realm strategy underpins the proposal," Urbis states in the planning report.

"Public benefits include an affordable housing contribution, a new pocket park, generous landscaped setbacks, deep soil planting and integrated Water Sensitive Urban Design."

The report adds that these elements are intended to create "a permeable, pedestrian-focused ground plane that enhances walkability, supports urban cooling and reinforces the emerging Green Street character."

Biophilic and passive design principles extend through the residential levels, with planting, daylight, natural ventilation and views towards landscaped areas forming part of the amenity strategy.

Parking would be concentrated away from the public realm, with 145 car spaces proposed from the rear laneway rather than dominating the Centre Road frontage.

The proposal follows an extensive pre-application process with the City of Monash. Three formal meetings were held between the project team and Council from December 2025 to March 2026, with the scheme evolving through several concept iterations before the current design was lodged.

The project arrives as Clayton prepares for substantial change around its established activity centre and the wider Suburban Rail Loop precinct. Its position on Centre Road places the development within an existing concentration of shops, services and public transport, while the Green Street connection is intended to strengthen pedestrian access towards Clayton Railway Station.

First look: Norus plans landscape-led apartment project for Clayton’s emerging Green Street

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gardner-vaughan-group">Gardner Vaughan Group</a> has officially commenced construction on Bronze on Chevron, celebrating the sod turning of its first-ever Gold Coast development and marking a significant milestone in the company's continued expansion across South East Queensland.&nbsp;

Following the successful delivery of premium residential developments throughout Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/bronze-on-chevron-8-mawarra-street-chevron-island-qld-4217">Bronze on Chevron</a> represents Gardner Vaughan Group's entry into the Gold Coast market. Bronze will deliver 119 one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments above two ground-level retail tenancies.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107520 project_image_fid=367193]

The recent sod turning ceremony was attended by Deputy Mayor Mark Hammel, President of the Surfers Paradise Surf Life Saving Club, Cassandra Sedgman, project consultants, purchasers, project partners and invited guests to celebrate the commencement of construction.&nbsp;

Gardner Vaughan Group Chief Executive Officer Simon Betteridge said Bronze on Chevron represented an exciting new chapter for the business.&nbsp;

"We've spent almost four decades building homes that respond to the way people want to live, and we're excited to bring that experience to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/chevron-island-qld-4217">Chevron Island</a>," Betteridge said.

"Bronze on Chevron is particularly significant because it marks Gardner Vaughan Group's first development on the Gold Coast following many successful projects across Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107520 project_image_fid=367183]

Betteridge said the ground breaking is a proud moment for the&nbsp;team and their purchasers, who can now see their future homes beginning to take shape.&nbsp;

"As both developer and builder, we're able to oversee every aspect of the project from design through to construction, ensuring the quality and attention to detail Gardner Vaughan Group has become renowned for."&nbsp;

Designed by acclaimed architectural practice <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cottee-parker-architects">Cottee Parker</a>, Bronze on Chevron has been thoughtfully designed to complement Chevron Island's evolving streetscape while embracing its relaxed coastal lifestyle.

The development will offer generous residences with refined interiors, premium finishes and resort-style amenities, with completion anticipated in early 2029.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=107520]

The development will offer generous residences with refined interiors, premium finishes and resort-style amenities, with completion anticipated in early 2029

Gardner Vaughan Group breaks ground on first Gold Coast development, Bronze on Chevron

Sydney’s property market is known for high prices, competitive bidding, and mounting pressure on first home buyers. But change is on the horizon.

From late 2025, eligible first home buyers in New South Wales will have access to a new federal government initiative aimed at addressing affordability: the Help to Buy Scheme.&nbsp;

<h2>What is the Help to Buy Scheme?</h2>

The program introduces a shared equity model intended to reduce the upfront cost of entering the property market, particularly in high-demand urban areas such as Sydney.

The scheme operates under a shared ownership structure in which the federal government takes an equity stake of up to 40 per cent for new homes, or 30 per cent for existing dwellings. This arrangement allows eligible buyers to significantly reduce their loan size and avoid the added cost of Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI).

Under this model, purchasers can enter the property market with as little as a two per cent deposit, well below the traditional 10 to 20 per cent usually required. The government’s contribution is not a loan but a co-ownership stake in the property. As such, there is no interest or rent charged on its portion.

Because the government’s equity combined with the buyer’s deposit typically meets or exceeds the 20 per cent threshold, LMI does not apply. The remaining balance, generally between 60 and 70 per cent of the property’s value, is financed through a standard home loan with a participating lender.

The government's equity in the property remains in place until the buyer chooses to repay it voluntarily or until the property is sold. Buyers can buy back the government’s share over time, in increments of at least five per cent, depending on their financial situation.

There is no fixed repayment timeline, but the amount to be repaid will be based on the property's market value at the time of repayment, not the original purchase price.

<h2>How do you qualify for the&nbsp;Help to Buy Scheme?</h2>

To qualify for the Help to Buy Scheme, applicants must meet the following conditions:

<ul>
	<li>Be an Australian citizen at least 18 years of age.</li>
	<li>Be a first-home buyer who does not currently own property.</li>
	<li>Intend to live in the property as their primary residence.</li>
	<li>Earn less than $100,000 per year for individuals, or $160,000 for couples.</li>
	<li>Purchase a property within the regional price caps, currently $950,000 in Sydney, though this is expected to rise to approximately $1.3 million ahead of the program’s launch.</li>
</ul>

While the Help to Buy Scheme does not solve affordability challenges across the board, it does offer a more accessible pathway for a defined segment of the market, particularly younger buyers with moderate incomes who have been priced out of traditional lending routes.

The scheme is expected to commence in NSW in late 2025, as part of a national rollout.

Under the new model, purchasers can enter the property market with as little as a two per cent deposit, well below the traditional 10 to 20 per cent usually required

Help to Buy Scheme: What first home buyers in NSW need to know

The First Home Owners Grant (FHOG) is a government initiative designed to help eligible first-time home buyers by offering financial assistance towards the purchase or construction of a new home.

While the FHOG is a nationwide program, it is administered separately by each state and territory, meaning the eligibility criteria, grant amounts, and property requirements can vary depending on your location. This means that the amount available and the conditions attached to the grant will differ, so it is important to check the specific guidelines for your state or territory.

It’s important to note that the FHOG is just one of several incentives available to first home buyers. In most states and territories, the grant is not linked to stamp duty exemptions or concessions, with the exception of the Australian Capital Territory (ACT). The FHOG is typically a one-off payment, reducing the overall cost of purchasing or building a new home before any stamp duty concessions are applied.

Below, we provide a breakdown of the First Home Owner Grants available across Australia, outlining the specific details for each state and territory.

<h2>New South Wales First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes valued up to $600,000. For land purchases and owner-builders, the threshold extends to $750,000.

Stamp Duty Benefits: Provides full stamp duty exemption for homes valued up to $800,000, with concessions available for properties up to $1 million.

<h2>Victoria South Wales First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Provides a $10,000 grant for first-home buyers purchasing or building new homes valued up to $750,000.

Stamp Duty Benefits: Offers full stamp duty exemption for properties up to $600,000, with concessions available up to $750,000.

<h2>Queensland First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers $30,000 for contracts signed between 20 November 2023 and 30 June 2025. The FHOG applies to new homes valued up to $750,000.

Stamp Duty Concessions: Provides additional concessions for properties valued up to $800,000.

<h2>Western Australia First Home Owner Grant</h2>

&nbsp;

First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes valued up to $750,000 in the southern regions and up to $1 million in the northern regions.

Stamp Duty Concessions: Available for homes valued up to $600,000 for transactions entered into on or after 9 May 2024.

<h2>Australian Capital Territory First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Replaced by the Home Buyer Concession Scheme, offering full stamp duty concessions for eligible buyers.

<h2>South Australia First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Provides up to $15,000 for new homes, including houses, apartments, and townhouses. As of 6 June 2024, there is no property value cap for eligibility.

Stamp Duty Relief: Available for new homes and vacant land purchases.

<h2>Tasmania First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes and off the plan purchases.

Stamp Duty Exemption: Between 18 February 2024 and 30 June 2026, first home buyers of established homes valued up to $750,000 receive a full exemption on property transfer duty.

<h2>Northern Territory First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: The Northern Territory provides a $10,000 grant for new homes only. Additional government grants and concessions are available for first home buyers.

Stamp Duty Exemption: The only stamp duty exemption available to property buyers is the House and Land Package Exemption (HLPE).

Eligibility criteria and application processes differ across states. Prospective buyers should refer to their respective state revenue offices for full details on grant availability, conditions, and additional concessions.

Every First Home Owner Grant for new property by state

In the ever-evolving landscape of sustainable architecture and environmentally conscious design, systems and ratings in place can help determine the energy efficiency of residential buildings in Australia.

Australia has multiple building rating systems that evaluate energy efficiency and sustainability in existing and new building designs.

Some systems assess individual building components, while others provide an overall rating for the entire structure.

A rating system ensures that homes are comfortable and energy-efficient, whether you are buying, renovating, or building.

NatHERS (Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme) is a common way for new homes to meet energy efficiency requirements.

As new developments continue to shape the urban environment, understanding NatHERS ratings becomes essential for developers and homeowners. This article delves into the concept of NatHERS ratings, their significance, and how they contribute to creating energy-efficient homes.

<h2>What is NatHERS?</h2>

NatHERS is a national initiative implemented by the Australian government to promote energy efficiency in residential buildings. The scheme aims to provide a standardised method for assessing the thermal performance of homes, considering factors such as insulation, orientation, ventilation, and building materials.&nbsp;

NatHERS ratings are the most common way new homes meet the National Construction Code's (NCC's) minimum energy efficiency requirements.&nbsp;

NatHERS assessments provide thermal and whole-home ratings for new homes, townhouses, and apartments.

The rating helps evaluate the energy performance of buildings, guides homeowners and developers to make informed decisions about the energy efficiency of their properties, and encourages the construction of more sustainable, comfortable, and cost-effective homes.

<h2>How NatHERS Ratings Work</h2>

NatHERS ratings are determined through four accredited software tools (AccuRate, BERS Pro, FirstRate5, HERO) using a calculation engine CSIRO developed to predict building temperature based on various factors.

The tools can model complex effects of building mass, insulation, window size, and other elements.

The outcome is a star rating that reflects the building's overall thermal efficiency, indicating how well it can maintain a comfortable indoor temperature without excessive reliance on heating or cooling systems.

The star rating scale ranges from 0 to 10, with a 6-star rating being the minimum requirement for compliance with the National Construction Code (NCC).&nbsp;

Achieving a higher star rating demonstrates a commitment to energy efficiency and sustainability, as the building is better equipped to minimise its environmental impact and reduce long-term energy costs.

Anyone can use NatHERS tools, but accredited assessors can provide certified ratings and professional advice.

<h2>Benefits of Higher NatHERS Ratings</h2>

Energy Efficiency: Buildings with higher NatHERS ratings are more energy-efficient, requiring less heating and cooling energy. This reduces the structure's carbon footprint and lowers occupants' energy bills.

Cost Savings: Homes with higher NatHERS ratings are generally more energy-efficient, resulting in reduced energy consumption for heating and cooling. This translates to lower energy bills for homeowners, making sustainable living environmentally friendly and economically viable in the long run.

Environmental Impact: Lower energy consumption directly translates to a reduced environmental impact. Buildings with higher NatHERS ratings contribute to the overall goal of mitigating climate change by lowering greenhouse gas emissions associated with heating and cooling systems.

Improved Comfort: Buildings with high NatHERS ratings offer better thermal comfort to occupants. Proper insulation, well-designed ventilation, and optimal orientation maintain a consistent and comfortable indoor temperature, providing occupants with a more enjoyable and healthier space.

Market Value and Desirability: Higher NatHERS ratings can enhance the market value of a property. As energy efficiency becomes a more significant consideration for homebuyers, a well-rated building may attract a premium price and stand out in the real estate market.

Compliance with Building Codes: NatHERS ratings are a vital component of the National Construction Code (NCC), and compliance with these ratings is often a mandatory requirement for new developments. Local councils and planning authorities may set minimum energy efficiency standards that must be met to obtain development approval.

The Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS) is a crucial initiative shaping the future of energy-efficient, resilient, and cost-effective homes. With its recent upgrades, NatHERS has evolved into a world-leading tool for the building sector, supporting the global commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

Staff Writer

What is a NatHERS rating in new off the plan apartment developments?

Mixed-use developments have gained significant popularity across Australia in recent years due to their unique blend of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces.

Unlike traditional single-purpose developments, mixed-use projects offer a harmonious integration of various functions within a single locale.

Residential units seamlessly coexist with commercial establishments, retail outlets, dining venues, entertainment hubs, and recreational facilities, with the combination not only enhances convenience but also fosters a vibrant lifestyle and a sense of community.

<h3>Convenience and accessibility</h3>

Mixed-use developments are designed with convenience in mind. They often integrate residential units with commercial spaces, retail outlets, restaurants, and recreational facilities, creating a self-contained community.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114215 project_image_fid=204874]

The proximity allows residents to enjoy the convenience of having essential amenities and services within walking distance. Whether it's grabbing a cup of coffee, going grocery shopping, or accessing healthcare services, everything is conveniently located, saving residents time and effort.

<h3>Vibrant lifestyle and community</h3>

One of the major advantages of mixed-use developments is the vibrant lifestyle they offer. With a diverse range of amenities and communal spaces, residents have ample opportunities to interact, socialise, and build a sense of community.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107714 project_image_fid=214122]

The presence of parks, community centres, and shared spaces fosters a lively atmosphere, encouraging residents to engage in various activities and events. The vibrant lifestyle within these developments creates a unique sense of belonging and camaraderie among the residents.

<h3>Potential for higher rental yields and property value appreciation</h3>

Mixed-use developments tend to attract a broad range of tenants and buyers due to their versatile nature. This high demand can result in higher rental yields for investors and potentially lead to property value appreciation over time.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139989 project_image_fid=212887]

The integration of commercial and retail spaces attracts businesses, which can provide a stable rental income stream. Additionally, the popularity of mixed-use developments often drives up property values, making them a potentially lucrative investment in the long term.

<h3>Enhanced security and maintenance</h3>

Mixed-use developments typically have comprehensive security measures in place. With controlled access points, CCTV surveillance, and professional security staff, residents can enjoy enhanced safety and peace of mind.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108019 project_image_fid=212658]

Additionally, these developments often have dedicated maintenance teams responsible for the upkeep of common areas, landscaping, and infrastructure. This ensures that the overall appearance and functionality of the development are well-maintained, creating a pleasant living environment for residents.

<h3>Live-work-play balance</h3>

One of the key attractions of mixed-use developments is the ability to achieve a desirable live-work-play balance. The integration of residential and commercial spaces allows residents to live closer to their workplaces, reducing commuting time and improving work-life balance.

The proximity to various amenities and recreational facilities encourages an active and healthy lifestyle. Residents can easily access fitness centres, parks, restaurants, and entertainment options, all within the same development, leading to a more fulfilling and convenient way of life.

alisonwarters@gmail.com

The top five reasons to buy in a mixed-use development

When buying a property, everyone needs to be aware of the additional costs that come as part of the buying process.

Often the largest outlay, after the deposit which goes to the bank, is stamp duty.

<h2 style="line-height: 1.38;">What is Stamp Duty?</h2>

Stamp duty is an extra tax to pay the government when you buy land, a property, and other certain assets.

It happens when the legal ownership is transferred. It can also be known as property transfer duty or transfer duty.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="415" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/C32BWkB5--c" title="YouTube video player" width="660"></iframe>

<h2>Who pays Stamp Duty?</h2>

In some circumstances, you may get an exemption. For some states, you won’t have to pay for stamp duty if you are a first home buyer or a pensioner for houses under a particular price. There are also stamp duty concessions, where you may be entitled to a discount.

<h2>How much does Stamp Duty cost?</h2>

Each state has different rules which affect how much you need to pay. These rules can affect the rate you pay, and the timeframe you will need to pay in. Before you buy land or a property, make sure you check the up-to-date information for your state’s stamp duty.

You can use a free stamp duty calculator online to see approximately how much you’ll need to pay. Find out if you’re eligible for an exemption by enquiring on a project via Urban!

Overall, the stamp duty you need to pay will depend on:

<ul>
	<li aria-level="1">How much your land/property is worth</li>
	<li aria-level="1">Where your land/property is located</li>
	<li aria-level="1">What type of land/property it is</li>
</ul>

Want to find out more? <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@UrbanAustralia?utm_source=YouTube&amp;utm_medium=Video&amp;utm_campaign=Subscribe&amp;utm_id=Subscribe">Subscribe to our YouTube channel</a> for more property videos.

Ellen Walker

Off-the-plan property explained: What is stamp duty?

Australia Post is one of the country’s most trusted institutions, powering one of the largest delivery networks in Australia. As online shopping continues to scale, Australians spent a record $82.6 billion online in 2025, with nearly one in four retail dollars now spent online.

That scale of eCommerce activity has fundamentally changed expectations around how and when parcels arrive, and what happens when someone isn't home.

<h3>Problem solved with Parcel Lockers</h3>

The traditional alternatives to home delivery are far from ideal. Buildings can rely on reception teams to manage deliveries, which introduces ongoing staffing costs and liability concerns. Parcels can be left in common areas, which creates security and aesthetic issues. Or residents are redirected to nearby Post Offices for collection, which shifts the inconvenience rather than solving it.

<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/dVG5ChLHf7E?si=D9hQRGCBuzlSQBqK" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

The data behind that frustration is significant. Nationally, around 9 per cent of deliveries are carded, meaning the recipient was not home and must collect the parcel from a Post Office. That figure reflects the national average reported between November 2025 and January 2026. In Melbourne, that figure rises to 20 per cent. In high-density living, it climbs again to 28 per cent. In other words, more than one in four deliveries in Melbourne apartment buildings results in a failed first attempt.

<h3>How Parcel Lockers work</h3>

The mechanics are simple. When a parcel arrives, the resident receives a notification either through the Australia Post app or via SMS. They scan a QR code, use their one-time PIN and the compartment opens. The parcel is secure, accessible and removed from the lobby floor.

Located in thoughtfully chosen, easily accessible areas, including external building interfaces, mixed-use precincts or shared communal zones, Parcel Lockers enhance convenience without requiring internal building access or additional operational oversight.

<h3>The scale of the network</h3>

This expansion represents Australia Post's largest investment in parcel infrastructure to date, building on momentum that began in 2011 when the first 24 Parcel Locker sites were introduced.

Today the Australia Post Parcel Locker network spans over 1,400 locations and more than 105,000 individual compartments, with major investment already underway to significantly expand the network further.

<h3>What it means for developers and building operators</h3>

A Parcel Locker bank is free to install and free for residents to use. That removes one of the primary barriers to adoption and shifts the conversation from cost to integration.

Australia Post's preference is to engage with developers during the design phase. That allows Parcel Lockers to be located in a considered, publicly accessible space that works for residents and the broader community. Retrofit is possible, and existing buildings can be assessed, but the strongest results occur when Parcel Lockers are treated as part of the core services plan rather than a bolt-on solution.

While the iconic Australia Post red is widely recognised, Parcel Lockers can also be delivered in more muted palettes such as beige or green to align with architectural intent.

For developers, they offer a tech-forward amenity that meets modern expectations, a reduction in courier congestion and building-management load supporting lower emissions and better ESG outcomes, and a meaningful marketability advantage in high-density, eCommerce-active areas, all at no cost for installation and maintenance, with Australia Post funding the program aside from power access.

<h3>Who's using them</h3>

Generational shopping behaviours show strong, sustained growth across all cohorts. Millennials (27–43) led online spend in 2024, contributing nearly $25 billion. Baby Boomers (60–78) increased their online spend by 17.6 per cent, becoming the fastest-growing adopters. Gen Z (13–26) and Gen X (44–59) continue to lean on delivery services as part of their everyday shopping habits.

Internationally, uptake is even more pronounced. Overseas markets are seeing rapid adoption by both developers and consumers, positioning Parcel Lockers as standard infrastructure in many new residential projects. For Melbourne's development community, this signals a shift in baseline expectations. Just as secure bike storage and dedicated parcel rooms have become more common, integrated Parcel Locker networks may soon be viewed as part of the essential service mix.

<h3>The bigger picture</h3>

Parcel Lockers aren't just a logistics fix. Developers invest heavily in lobby design, materials, lighting and landscaping to shape first impressions. Yet a stack of unattended parcels can undo that effort in an instant. Embedding parcel infrastructure early allows projects to respond to how people actually live today, supporting resident satisfaction, reducing operational strain and aligning with broader community and ESG outcomes.

As Belinda Quinn, Senior Transaction Manager – Retail &amp; Out of Home at Australia Post, puts it, residents increasingly expect delivery solutions that align with real life, are flexible, secure and available whenever they need them.

How Australia Post is solving the parcel problem for apartment living

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The Brisbane home featured in the latest Selling Houses Australia 2012 series debut makeover still awaits new owners.
The <a target="_blank" href="https://www.lifestyle.com.au/property/selling-houses-australia-series-5-yeronga-supplier-list.aspx">four-bedroom, two-bathroom 1960-built bungalow</a> remains listed for sale at $625,000.
The vendors are happy in the meantime to take $600 a week in rent.
Listed through Liz Baillie at The Wilson Team RE/MAX Colonial Riverside, the Yeronga house went to auction last September<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/renovating/audiences-sold-on-andrew-winter-s-selling-houses-australia-with-record-ratings/2012020253229"> after its $60,000 makeover by Andrew Winter’s team</a>.
The vendors, Paul and Gloria, had previously had it listed with $570,000-plus hopes before its renovation, which was needed following the January 2011 flood. This was reduced to $529,000 hopes shortly before Winter’s arrival last August.
It last traded at $328,000 in 2001.
For advice an expert commentary on lessons to learn from property reality TV, download our free eBook <a href="http://propertyobserver.com.au/ebooks/free-ebook-lights-camera-auction-lessons-from-the-property-reality-television-shows" target="_blank">Lights, Camera, Auction!</a>
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Brisbane house featured in Selling Houses 2012 premiere still awaiting buyer

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Andrew Winter’s Selling Homes Australia achieved record ratings in its 2012 series debut.
The show’s average audience was about 115,000 – who rather than watch the cricket tuned into the program on Foxtel Lifestyle. Viewers peaked at 152,000.
It seems assured to remain the top-rating non-sports program on subscription television.
The 2012 series kicked off with a<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/renovating/brisbane-house-featured-in-selling-houses-2012-premiere-still-awaiting-buyer/2012020253230" target="_blank"> flood house makeover in the Brisbane suburb of Yeronga</a>.
The previous best average audience score was when it showed a Frankston extreme mess makeover, which had a 114,000 average audience rating when it aired midway through its fourth series last year.
Winter’s profile is steadily more known across Australia following a roadshow late last year sponsored by News Ltd local papers, where he gave seminars sponsored by RP Data.
<img src="/images/stories/sellinghousesoz2.jpg">
Last year’s debut program on a North Rocks makeover was watched by an average 91,000 people, which was its highest season debut since its premiere in 2008 at 72,000 average audience with an Austinmer makeover, based on OzTam data.
There were 68,000 average viewers per program after its 2008 launch.
Viewers dipped to 49,000 in season two, then jumped back to 62,000 in season three.
There were typically 108,000 viewers in its fourth series last year when Winter accepted Astra Awards for the Viewers’ Favourite Personality (second year running) and for the third year running, the Viewers’ Favourite Lifestyle Program.
Selling Houses began on Britain's Channel 4 amid the property boom in 2002 when Winter, then a London real estate agent, was plucked from obscurity to present the program.
He rivalled Property Ladder's Sarah Beeny and Location, Location, Location's Phil Spencer until his migration, with his wife Caroline and their three daughters, to the Gold Coast in Australia.
Winter, who is represented by the Harry M. Miller Group, has dispensed advice this year suggesting with another year comes a new property outlook.
He suggests important New Year resolutions for buyers and seller in the market for 2012 should include:
1. I will not place my house on the market unless I seriously want to sell and understand that the price I am finally offered may not be what I hoped for.
2. If I am selling, I will not leave it all to the agent. I resolve to get involved, read the text in advertisements and online, check the pictures, questions all aspects of the marketing campaign and listen to the agent’s advice and give them a chance to explain.
3. I will not underestimate the power of first impressions when selling. I will not leave the toilet seat up, beds will be made, windows will be shining, the whole place will feel clean, and no sign of pets other than pictures of them.
4. As a buyer, I will acknowledge that in reality my requirements will change during my search and I promise to be realistic with my expectations.
5. I promised to do my research and know there’s no such thing as “guaranteed capital growth”.
6. If I see a home I really like I will be prepared to pay market value and not get upset when the sellers, who are normal, sane beings, refuse my mad, crazy and insulting low offer.  I will try to secure the home at the right price, but make sure any low offers are based on facts and market conditions or because the seller needs to sell quick. If I do make an offer under those circumstances, I resolve to act quickly.
 
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Audiences sold on Andrew Winter's Selling Houses Australia, with record ratings

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Renovating residential investment property is a great way of building wealth quickly. It’s a relatively low-risk strategy if executed correctly and will allow you to manufacture capital value and increase rental returns without relying solely on market conditions. 

Back in 1999 a friend of mine wanted to sell a house his parents left him when they passed away. Since he knew that I knew a bit about real estate he asked for my help. The house had been neglected for 18 months and was in very poor condition. A few local real estate agents gave him valuations ranging between $320,000 and $340,000.

I did a little research and was confident my friend could get more if he tidied up the house but he couldn’t be bothered and just wanted to sell it as it was. So we made a deal. I would fix up the house and when he sold it we would split whatever profit we made, based on the average of the initial valuations less the renovation costs. So I got stuck into it, working 12 hours a day for a week.

I cleared out all the junk, filling two jumbo skip bins. I had the floors sanded and polished and touched up the interior paintwork. I tidied up the gardens, trimmed some trees that were overhanging the roof, had some stumps removed and put bark on the garden beds. I washed the outside of the house and touched up the paintwork, replaced the cracked roof tiles, cleaned the gutters and painted them as well as the eaves.

The cost of the makeover was just over $10,000 plus my labour. Only two weeks after their initial valuation, we asked two of the original selling agents (plus another one) for a fresh valuation. They all valued the house between $390,000 and $410,000. It sold for $395,000. So for an outlay of around $10,000 plus one week of my labour we had increased the value of the house by $65,000.

In essence, I had converted a little imagination and one week of my time into $27,500, which I used – yes, you guessed it – to buy some property to renovate. Now that you can see what’s possible, here are my top three reasons why renovating residential property is one of the best investment strategies:

1. It’s easy to understand

With the popularity of shows like The Block and The Renovators, most people are familiar with the concept of property renovation and how it can increase the value of a property. Because people already understand how it works, they don’t have to struggle with the basics and can get on with practising their skills and developing their techniques.

2. You’re in control

How much control do you have over the performance of shares you buy? Unless you own a big enough chunk of shares in a company to get yourself a seat on the board, very little. The board of directors can make bad, negligent or straight-out criminal decisions, wiping significant value off your shares, and apart from selling your shares and investing elsewhere as a sign of protest, there’s not much you can do about it.

However, with property renovation you’re in the driver’s seat. Maximum return comes from a property when it’s improved to its “highest and best use” for its tenants and buyers. Because you make all the decisions, you can be proactive to ensure the property reaches its highest and best use.

You don’t have to quit your day job, but renovating can become a full-time career if you want it to. You can potentially make more money in less time than you’re earning now.

3. You can “manufacture” capital growth

If you buy a parcel of shares is there anything you can do to add value to them? No. You can add value to a business but unless you’re a naturally gifted entrepreneur, growing a business is hard work. It usually takes a significant commitment of time, money and emotional energy and according to some reports and business books I have read you have an 80% chance of going out of business within the first five years.

In comparison, adding value to an investment property is relatively simple if you know what you are doing. You add value by taking a structurally sound but run-down property and smartening it up, making it more desirable, and thus more valuable, to renters and buyers.

You can give it a coat of paint and tidy up the garden. Or replace all the doorknobs, build a barbecue, replace the carpet or polish the floorboards. There are literally hundreds of improvements, big and small, that you can do to increase the value. The trick is to add more value than the actual cost of the improvements.

By doing creative, cost-effective cosmetic renovations you can “manufacture” capital growth. Rather than just sitting back and waiting for the market to deliver capital growth over time, you accelerate the process by manufacturing capital growth with a renovation. This allows you to build wealth faster than relying solely on market increases.

As an added bonus, renovating can also increase your cashflow via the higher rent you can achieve for the renovated property. So you have two ways to profit: capital growth and increased cashflow. If you’re clever about it, the increased rental income you generate can cover the costs of financing the renovation. This means you can achieve the capital gain without putting in any of your own money.

In summary, renovating is a solid approach for building wealth which is less reliant on outside factors which are beyond your control. The only limit is your imagination. I firmly believe that building wealth through renovating residential property is a skill that can be learnt by just about anyone.

If you don’t include renovating as part of your property investment strategy then you’re probably not maximising your potential returns. You can use it to fast-track the growth of your portfolio, create an additional income stream, or a combination of the two.

My definition of renovation

When I refer to renovation I’m talking about cosmetic rejuvenation. I’m not talking about buying derelict property and making it liveable again, restoring period homes or fixing major structural defects. What we’re doing is taking a structurally sound but messy property, smartening it up and adding the “wow factor” on a limited budget.

The type of renovation projects you attempt should be in line with your level of knowledge, skills and tradespeople contacts. By using some common sense I believe most people can handle a basic rejuvenation without too many dramas.

My seven-step plan for renovating for profit

The secret to success in anything you do is having a good plan, conducting your research and working smartly. To get you started I want to introduce my proven seven-step plan that I use to renovate properties for profit, for myself and my clients:

Step 1: Understand the renovation profit formula – once you understand the theory you’ll see where the profits lie.

Step 2: Work out how much you can afford – you need enough in the kitty to cover the three major costs of renovating.

Step 3: Target the right property type – match your risk profile to the right type of property.

Step 4: Market research and preparation – it all comes down to the all-important research.

Step 5: Select the right property to buy – how to spot a property with the maximum profit potential.

Step 6: Pay the right price – how to work out the maximum you can afford to pay and still make a healthy profit.

Step 7: Get the work done on time and budget – avoid profit-shrinking cost overruns and delays.
Patrick Bright is a real estate author and founder of Sydney-based buyer’s agency <a target="_blank" href="https://%20www.epspropertysearch.com.au">EPS Property Search</a>. Bright has purchased over $500 million worth of real estate for clients. His best-selling titles include The Insider’s Guide to Buying Real Estate, The Insider’s Guide to Saving Thousands at Auction, The Insider’s Guide to Profitable Property Investing and The Insider's Guide to Renovating for Profit. This is an excerpt from The Insider's Guide to Renovating for Profit. 
For expert commentary and analysis on lessons to be learnt from property reality TV, <a href="https://register.propertyobserver.com.au/lights-camera-auction/" target="_blank">download our e-book Lights, Camera, Auction!</a>
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Three reasons you should renovate for profit

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Property developer Stockland has continued last year’s trend of developers offering incentives to entice new home buyers. 
The developer is also tapping into concerns over the impact of the carbon tax on energy bills in 2012 by offering buyers of land and selected house-and-land packages a $6,000 Visa Energy Card to help pay their energy bills for up to three years. 
The “Power to Move” campaign runs from January 7 to February 19. The eight NSW Stockland residential communities participating in the offer are Waterside at <placename>Penrith</placename><placetype>Lakes</placetype>; Glenmore Ridge in Western Sydney; Darcy’s Peak and McKeachie’s Run in the Maitland and Hunter region; <placename>Murrays</placename><placetype>Beach</placetype> in <placetype>Lake</placetype><placename>Macquarie</placename>; McCauley’s Beach and the newly launched Brooks Reach in the Illawarra and Bayswood on the <place><placename>NSW</placename><placename>South</placename><placetype>Coast</placetype></place>. 
Last year developers attempted to entice new buyers with <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/land/buying-a-house-and-land-package-10-key-dates-to-keep-in-mind/2011112352508" target="_blank">offers of furniture vouchers, free luxury carpets and appliances and discounted lots</a> to name just a few. 
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/home-building-still-in-the-doldrums-but-renos-picking-up-abs/2011112352503">Master Builders Australia</a> is pleading for government intervention to kick-start new home building, as new home sales numbers dwindle.
Matthew Mears, Stockland’s general manager for residential development in NSW, says the offer recognises the burden of the household energy bill. 
“The great thing is that buyers into our residential communities will benefit with Stockland paying their energy bills for up to three years. With a sensible approach to energy consumption, the opportunity exists to stretch that bonus even further,” he says. 
In addition to the $6,000 bonus, buyers will also receive bonus energy-efficient builder upgrades including solar or gas hot water, an energy-saving dishwasher and energy-efficient lighting that will help reduce energy bills further. 
Stockland is also promoting the idea that buying a new home is more cost-efficient than owning an older established home. 
Stockland compared the living costs of a three-bedroom and a four-bedroom home built in 2011 with houses of the same configurations built in 1981. 
It found new homes generated more cost savings from reduced heating and cooling costs, etter use of natural light and savings from built-in energy-efficient appliances. 
According to Stockland research, running a newly built four-bedroom, two-bathroom home with a two-car garage versus a comparable house 30 years older results in a savings of $2,197 in New South Wales, $1,749 in Western Australia and $1,574 in Victoria. 
“The figures show that across the country, new homes clearly offer lower ongoing running costs, when compared to homes from 30 years ago,” says Ben Allen, general manager of sustainable communities for Stockland.
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Stockland seeking to power up new home market by paying buyers' energy bills

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The secret to renovating for profit is in selecting the right property, conducting thorough research and having a good plan. 
It is important that the type of renovation projects you attempt is in line with your level of knowledge, skills and tradespeople contacts. 
There are literally hundreds of improvements, big and small, that you could do to increase the value of their property. 
By using some common sense I believe most people can handle a basic rejuvenation without too many dramas. 
The trick is to add more value than the actual cost of the improvements. 
This is my seven-step plan to renovate properties for profit: 
Step 1: Understand the renovation profit formula 
In simple terms the renovation formula is: Your renovation profits margin equals the renovated value of the property minus the purchase price and total renovation costs.
Once you understand the theory you’ll see where the profits lie. The formula is like the filter through which you view a property. 
Step 2: Work out how much you can afford
 
You need to have enough saved to cover the three major costs of renovating: the cost of buying the property, the cost of renovating the property and the selling costs or the ongoing costs to hold the property. 
Step 3: Target the right type of property 
Match your risk profile to the right type of property. Before buying a property to renovate it is important to consider your risk profile carefully, including how comfortable you are with the possibility of losing money, or that the return on investment may not be as high as you had hoped for. If you’re new to property investing and/or you’ve never renovated a property before, I recommend you cut your teeth on a simple project. Start off with an apartment – it’s better to start small to minimise your risks. 
Step 4: Market research and preparation
 
This involves identifying suburbs with the greatest profit potential, researching property values, brushing up on design and decorating, and selecting a team of quality tradespeople. 
Step 5: Select the right property type
Look for a property with the maximum profit potential. Your first consideration here should be the condition of the property. Search for something rundown, but not totally derelict. 
Step 6: Pay the right price 
Work out the maximum you can afford to pay and still make a healthy profit. One of the fundamentals of renovating for profit is that you buy well. I always begin with the end in mind, by that I mean I work out what the post-renovated value will be, the costs to get it in that state, calculate the holding costs, decide on the amount of profit I want to make then I know my maximum purchase price. 
Step 7: Get the work done on time and within your  budget 
Avoid profit-shrinking cost overruns and delays. Make sure you use a spread sheet to
schedule the works. You need to ensure all the tradespeople do their work in the right sequence. Always add a buffer of a day or so around each tradesperson. This gives you wiggle room if there are delays.
Patrick Bright is a real estate author and founder of Sydney-based buyer’s agency <a href="https://%20www.epspropertysearch.com.au" target="_blank">EPS Property Search</a>. Bright has purchased over $500 million worth of real estate for clients. His best-selling titles include The Insider’s Guide to Buying Real Estate, The Insider’s Guide to Saving Thousands at Auction and The Insider’s Guide to Profitable Property Investing. 
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The seven-step plan for renovating in the new year

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Over the years I’ve noticed several common traps that renovators fall into. From not conducting enough comparable market research to thinking you have to do all the renovation work yourself in order to make a profit. There are numerous pitfalls that can eat into your bottom line and destroy your confidence. Here are the top six mistakes to avoid.
1.   Not doing enough research
I can’t overemphasise the importance of undertaking comprehensive research because it’s fundamental to each and every step of the renovating for profit process. When you boil it down, every one of the following mistakes can be avoided by doing research.
The vast majority of the effort involved in renovating for profit is research and preparation, but so often I see people rushing in, thinking they know it all, and ending up with a disappointing result. If you don’t take the time to cost your renovation accurately, you could end up with a half-renovated property and no money to finish it. If you don’t do enough comparable market research you could overestimate the value of the property post renovation and get a nasty shock when you go to sell.
Renovating for profit requires time, effort and dedication. The time and effort you put into research will ultimately determine the amount of profit you make.
2.   Paying too much for the property
The purchase price has a direct impact on your profit margin. Every dollar you negotiate the purchase price below your maximum is another dollar of profit for you. However if you set your maximum purchase price too high (because you didn’t do enough research to understand fair market value), or you exceed it (because, for example, you lost self-control bidding at an auction), your profit will suffer.
Purchasing at the right price to ensure you make a profit comes down to knowing market values and negotiating well. All too often I see property investors taking short cuts on the research and market analysis and not bothering to hone their negotiation skills. In the end they pay too much, don’t end up making a profit and don’t maximise the return on their investment. Remember if you’re not experienced at something (for example, tiling) then outsource it!
3.   Not renovating for the target market
If you’re renovating your own home it’s all about pleasing yourself, however when you’re renovating for profit it’s about appealing to the target market, i.e. tenants and buyers. Unfortunately many people get this wrong. They let their “know it all” attitude get in the way and decide what they like is best for everybody.
How many times have you walked into a property for sale and been appalled by the décor? I can assure you it happens to me all the time. Anyone who wants to buy such a property will reduce their offer by the amount they’ll have to pay to have the place redecorated to their taste. So you can see how getting the décor wrong can easily erode a renovator’s profit.
It’s always safer to go for a conservative, neutral but classy décor that’s appropriate to the local market and will appeal to the masses, not the few. If you’re not sure how to achieve that result, get professional advice from an interior designer. I’ve always found this kind of advice a very worthwhile investment.
4.   Over (or under) capitalising
When you’re renovating for profit, adding value is the name of the game. Unfortunately you can’t add unlimited value to a property because there is a limit as to what the market will pay for say a four-bedroom, two-bathroom, double lock-up garage house. Once a home has reached its ceiling price for the accommodation it offers, buyers will not pay more. It doesn’t matter how much Italian marble, state-of-the art electronics and gold-leaf ceilings you put in it.
I know I’m sounding like a broken record here, but it all comes back to your research. When you’re undertaking comparable market analysis you need to establish the ceiling price of fully renovated properties that are similar to the ones you’re targeting. To avoid overcapitalising, prioritise your expenditure on improvements that will add the most value. Be mindful of the price ceiling and resist the temptation to overspend.
It’s also possible to go the other way and under-capitalise on a renovation. This usually happens when you’re trying to save money. For example, you put in a cheaper kitchen with laminate benchtops but the target market prefers a much higher-quality kitchen with CaesarStone benchtops and European branded appliances.
So they lower their offers to take into account the cost of re-doing the kitchen to what it should be for a property of its style, position and character or they dismiss the property from consideration altogether because renovating is too much of a hassle for them. Either way, it’s bad news for you.
If you don’t have the budget to renovate a property to the standard the target market expects then it’s better to set your sights on a more affordable property that you can renovate properly. Otherwise wait until you’ve saved more money.
5.   Relying on the sales agent’s opinion about renovated value
Here’s another reason why you have to research the prices of renovated properties for yourself. You can’t rely on selling agents to give you an accurate estimate of the renovated value of a property. If you ask them what a property would be worth when it’s renovated they’re more than likely going to give you a very optimistic estimate.
Why would they do this? Well, apart from the fact that it’s in their nature to be very bullish with sale prices as no one wants to list their property for sale with a pessimist, it’s also in their vendor’s financial interest. They want to paint the property in the best possible light to encourage you to make an offer on it. The other problem is it’s also an unqualified estimate as they may interpret what you intend to do with the property as more high end than you actually intend to do.
6.   Doing the work yourself to “save money”
If your budget is small there’s always a temptation to do some or all of the work yourself to save money but DIY renovations can easily backfire. If the quality of workmanship is substandard this will diminish your sale price, possibly eliminating any profit you might have made in much the same way as under-capitalising on a renovation.
It’s also a false economy. You might save a few bucks on the cost of the renovation, but how much is your time worth? The time it takes you to paint walls and sand floors could be better spent looking for another deal. Plus, the longer it takes you to renovate, the more you’ll pay in holding costs. Why not just hire professionals to do all the work? Especially since you can still make a healthy profit without picking up a paint brush.
Patrick Bright is a real estate author and founder of Sydney-based buyer’s agency <a href="https://www.epspropertysearch.com.au" target="_blank">EPS Property Search</a>. Bright has purchased over $500 million worth of real estate for clients. His best-selling titles include The Insider’s Guide to Buying Real Estate, The Insider’s Guide to Saving Thousands at Auction, The Insider’s Guide to Profitable Property Investing and The Insider's Guide to Renovating for Profit. This is an excerpt from The Insider's Guide to Renovating for Profit.
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The top six profit-killing mistakes to avoid when renovating

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As we look to what's ahead for 2012, Property Observer is republishing some of our most noteworthy stories of 2011.
 
Along with their booming profits and market dominance, Australia’s four biggest banks have collectively invested about $2 billion dollars in new office developments in Melbourne and Sydney.
ANZ and NAB are already comfortably settled into state-of-the-art and gargantuan headquarters in Melbourne’s Docklands precinct while CBA recently took occupation of new $500 million premises in Darling Quarter on the western fringes of the Sydney CBD.
Currently under construction is NAB’s second Docklands office block at a cost of $400 million featuring 64,000 square metres of floor area, and the Commonwealth Bank will take up to a third of a new tower being built in the Melbourne CBD on Collins Street.
Not be left out Westpac has committed to taking up residence in a new $105 million office building mooted for the Paris end of Collins Street due to be developed by Grocon and APN Property Management.
Here’s a look at the office projects the major banks have invested in, starting with projects already completed and occupied by banking staff:
Commonwealth Bank
<img src="/images/stories/combankdarling1.jpg">
Name: Commonwealth Bank Place (redeveloped former Sega World site) Location: Darling Quarter, western CBD fringe, Sydney Cost: $500 million Space: 56,000 square metres over two eight-storey buildings Number of staff: 6,200 Environmental rating: Six green star rating for its design and a five-star NABERS energy rating. CBA is also aiming for a six green star “as built” rating.
<img src="/images/stories/combankdarling2.jpg">
Standout feature: The building is designed to promote activity-based working. Teams are assigned a primary working space called a “home zone”. In the home zone, personal lockers are provided for storage. Home zones are dotted with stylish open breakout rooms, collaboration spaces or designated meeting areas.
 
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NAB
<img src="/images/stories/nabbourke2.jpg">
National @ Docklands
Number of staff: 3,900 Environmental rating: NABERS Energy Rating of 4.5 star (five stars with Green Power) Developer: Lend Lease Architect: Bligh Voller Nield
<img src="/images/stories/nabbourke3.jpg">
Standout feature: It has no individual offices. Each building has large open floor plans and a central atrium. NAB employees were consulted on the design of workstations design and selection of chairs.  800 Bourke Street is one of Australia's inaugural green buildings and was designed and built before the introduction of the green star ratings tool. In 2005 it won 2005 Banksia - Leadership in Sustainable Buildings Award.
 
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ANZ
<img src="/images/stories/anzhq.jpg"> 
Name: ANZ Centre Location: 833 Collins Street Docklands, Melbourne Cost: $512 million Space: 86,000 square metres Environmental rating: Six green stars for office design Developer: Lend Lease Architect: HASSELL and Lend Lease design Awards: named Victorian Development of the Year at the Property Council's 2011 Innovation and Excellence Awards.
 <img src="/images/stories/anzhq2.jpg">
Standout feature: The building produces 70% less greenhouse gas emissions, generates much of its own electricity using the on-site gas-fired tri-generation plant, solar cells and wind turbines and uses about 50% less potable water than a standard Australian commercial building.
 
 
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Under construction
NAB

<img src="/images/stories/nabbourke1.jpg">
Name: Docklands 2 Location: 700 Bourke Street, Docklands, Melbourne Cost: $350 million Space: 63,000 square metres across 14 floors Number of staff: 5,900 Environmental rating: Six star green star, five-star NABERS energy rating Developer: Cbus Property Architect: Woods Bagot Due for completion: Mid-2013
Standout feature: Besides its unique design built on a triangular site, the building will include a childcare centre, concourse level retail, a public auditorium and accessible public throughways.
 
Commonwealth Bank
<img src="/images/stories/combankcollins1.jpg"> 
Location: 357 Collins Street Space: 30,000 square metres of office space over two towers, one third to be occupied by CBA Developer: Australand Environmental rating: Five-star NABERS rating and four green star rating targets Due for completion: October 2012
<img src="/images/stories/combankcollins2.jpg">
 
 
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In the development pipeline
Westpac
<img src="/images/stories/westpaccollins.jpg">
Location: 150 Collins Street
Cost: $105 million Space: 20,000 square metres of office space over 10 levels Environmental rating: Six green stars for office design and five-star NABERS rating
Developer: APN Property and Grocon 
The <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/office/westpac-takes-paris-end-of-collins-leaves-docklands-to-other-banks/2011092251651">proposed site for the tower</a> is currently occupied by an Art Deco multi-level car park behind the historic Scots Church on the corner of Russell and Collins streets.
 
 
 
 
 
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Big banks have big investments in CBD office space in Melbourne and Sydney

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Construction has begun on the first of 800 planned homes that make up developer Peet Limited’s new Victorian project Quarters.
Peet has commissioned construction companies Burbank, Carlisle, Metricon and Simonds to build the Cranbourne West homes.
Land prices start at $164,000 for a 294-square-metre block and from $210,000 for a 516-square-metre block. These will increase $15,000 on December 23 when Peet’s discounting period stops.
Quarters was officially launched in February 2011. To date 119 have been released, of which 93 have sold.
The next land release will be in March 2012.
The development is on Evans Road, three kilometres from Cranbourne’s town centre.
Some homes have their frames and roofs built, whiles others are still just foundations in the dirt.
“Quarters offers affordable housing in a high-growth area so, not surprisingly, the community is proving a popular choice amongst first-time buyers and young families,” says Peet Limited managing director and CEO Brendan Gore.
“Peet is offering a variety of lot sizes well-suited to a wide range of home designs that suit different buyers and families.”
The City of Casey is one of the fastest-growing municipalities in Australia, with development concentrated Berwick, Cranbourne, Narre Warren South and Lyndhurst, according to June research by Oliver Hume.
The municipality's population grew by 3.3% over the last 12 months to June 2011 according to state government’s Department of Planning and Community Development.
The median price for houses in Cranbourne West is $318,000.
For advice on buying house-and-land packages, <a href="http://propertyobserver.com.au/ebooks/free-ebook-10-tips-for-buying-house-and-land-packages-what-investors-need-to-know" target="_blank">download our free eBook.</a>
 
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Construction begins on Peet’s Cranbourne development Quarters

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Property developer Stockland will sell the undeveloped parts of its Melbourne Tooronga project to the Coles division of Wesfarmers, with settlement in October 2013.
The deal covers 7.7 hectares of land at stages two to five of the Tooronga apartments, which was originally planned to be a 785-apartment housing complex.
The development was expected to be worth up to $593 million in revenues in June 2010, but a poor performance in Stockland's apartments division led to a decision to exit the sector.
“This sale is another important step forward in the wind down of our Apartments business,” says Stockland Residential chief executive Mark Hunter.
Stockland will retain ownership of the Coles anchored-shopping centre on the site, which opened in August 2010. The centre was valued at $48.7 million as of June 30.
The undisclosed sale price is said to be above impaired book value.
The site was subject to impairment in the 2009 financial year and the surplus will be excluded from the group’s underlying profit.
 
 
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Stockland selling undeveloped parts of Melbourne Tooronga site to Coles

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In a bid to encourage house-and-land buyers to commit to buying before Christmas, developer Australand has knocked $10,000 off the price of 14 of the houses in its master-planned development Botanica, at Sydney’s former Lidcombe Hospital site.
The homes are expected to be completed before Christmas, and ready to move into early in the new year.
<img src="/images/stories/botanica1.jpg">
Prices range from $685,000 to $740,000 for a three-bedroom home and $780,000 to $905,000 for a four-bedroom home. The promotion began in late October, and so far six buyers have taken advantage of the sale.
<img src="/images/stories/botanica2.jpg">
“Construction will be completed before Christmas, which means purchasers can be happily settled and ready to start the new year afresh in their the new home,” says Nigel Edgar, general manager of Australand’s residential division.
He says that the development’s parks and gardens are a big drawcard for buyers.
<img src="/images/stories/botanica3.jpg">
“The design of homes at Botanica complements modern lifestyles. All homes are well spaced with private garden and courtyard areas and are ideally located a short stroll to the community’s picturesque seven hectares of parks and gardens, which offer a relaxing retreat for all residents,” Edgar says.
<img src="/images/stories/botanica4.jpg">
Australand recently sold three of four homes in the first release of its more affordable Emerald Collection within two weeks of their launch. All were three-bedroom homes and all sold for $600,000. The developer plans to release the remaining eight in March 2012.
“Australand is responding to the lack of affordable stock available in the NSW residential market by ensuring that new products are developed with specific market segments in mind and with price points that meet consumer expectations of value,” says Edgar.
The Botanica site is 12 kilometres from Sydney CBD and is set to be home to about 1,800 people by 2014. In addition to the new homes, the site features 10 century-old cottages that will be restored. The one-bedroom residences will be priced from $430,000 and the three-bedroom cottages will start at $850,000.
The grandest of the heritage properties is a two-storey superintendent's home on the site will be a five-bedroom house on a Torrens title flanking the village green, but its pricing has not been determined.
For advice on buying house-and-land packages, download our free eBook.
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