Around 400 additional homes could be built at Southwark Grounds on Port Road, lifting total site capacity from 1300 to around 1700 dwellings.

A recently approved code amendment would allow apartment towers of up to 14 storeys in some areas of Renewal SA’s redevelopment of the former West End Brewery.

Renewal SA Acting Chief Executive Shane Wingard said he welcomed the code amendment, with the increase in heights and homes making a positive impact on the supply of high-quality, well-connected housing close to the city.

“By going higher across some parts of Southwark Grounds, we are adding a substantial number of very well-located homes with little impact on project delivery time or planned open space,” Mr Wingard said.

Since the project officially launched in 2025, Mr Wingard said more than 12,000 enquiries had been received about living at Southwark Grounds.

“The very strong early interest we’ve seen since homes were first released in the precinct reinforces our plans to create more housing opportunities,” he said.

The Southwark Grounds code amendment was launched in December last year, with community engagement undertaken over five weeks from January.

It proposed increasing maximum building heights from eight to 14 storeys on the eastern section of Southwark Grounds, and to 12 storeys across the remainder of the site, with minimum building heights ranging from two to four storeys.

The code amendment was implemented through an Early Commencement policy in late January, allowing developers to quickly explore the viability of increased height and housing yield while other planning processes continue.

One of the first developers delivering apartment sites have already finalised redesigns to increase the number of apartments following the code amendment.

Samaras’ development adjacent to the future Colonel Light Park is now planning to deliver 125 apartments across 11 storeys, significantly greater than original plans of around 50 apartments across four storeys.

The developer is also exploring the potential for additional affordable housing outcomes.

Most of the apartments at Southwark Grounds will be delivered within a master-planned precinct on a large parcel of land on the eastern portion of the site, covering around two-thirds of its 8.4 hectares.

Wingard said detailed precinct planning over the coming months may identify further opportunities to increase yield further that could see total apartment numbers at Southwark Grounds, exceed this number.

Affordable homes at Southwark Grounds will also see a net increase, with Renewal SA maintaining its commitment to a minimum of 20 per cent affordable housing across the development.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Civil works have begun across the site, with construction under way on the first new roads surrounding a townhouse precinct in the south‑west corner of Southwark Grounds. This includes Renewal SA’s 17 Founder’s Row homes, which are on track for completion by Christmas.

“We expect to have people living at Southwark Grounds by the end of the year, so delivering roads and public spaces for those residents is among our highest priorities.”

Construction of 40 townhouses off Anderson Street, known as West Village and being delivered by Contour, is forecast to begin in mid‑2026. Kolabb’s Anderson Lane development will follow shortly after, delivering a further 26 townhouses.

Southwark Grounds is a state government‑led urban renewal project now set to deliver around 1,700 homes over the next decade.

Homes will be supported by a supermarket, a range of retail and hospitality offerings anchored by a revitalised Walkerville Brew Tower, a childcare centre, car parking and well‑connected public spaces.

Joel Robinson

400 new homes planned for Adelaide's former West End Brewery site

Brisbane developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/cavcorp">Cavcorp</a> has lodged plans for a new mixed-use residential development at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/55-wyandra-street-teneriffe-qld-4005">55 Wyandra Street</a>, Teneriffe, anchored by an 85-metre public laneway designed to reconnect the suburb’s riverfront with the Gasworks precinct.

The buildings, known as Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane, would replace the existing Queensland Cotton head office site with a 15-storey residential tower transitioning to eight storeys toward Helen Street. The project has been designed by Plazibat Architects and lodged as a code assessable development application for 93 apartments across a 3,401 sqm mixed-use site within the Newstead and Teneriffe Waterfront neighbourhood plan.

Central to the scheme is the transformation of an existing service easement into a publicly accessible cross-block connection linking Wyandra and Helen Streets. Cavcorp says the new laneway will act as both a pedestrian shortcut and a landscaped civic space between the Teneriffe Riverwalk, ferry terminal, and Gasworks precinct.

<img alt="First Look: Cavcorp unveils Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane plans for landmark wellness tower in Teneriffe" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="26e7f058-b065-4de8-b13d-a2b8cb64dfcc" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/bldg.png?VersionId=sELS0ZKYi361oYipUa1BIKfe_.DLZoFV" />

“The revised proposal delivers a legacy public-realm cross-block link, permanently secured for community use, transforming an existing private easement into a safe, high-quality pedestrian connection between the Teneriffe heritage riverwalk and the Gasworks–Long Island precinct,” the planning report states.

The laneway will sit beneath a large subtropical loggia integrated into the podium levels of the development. The design incorporates deep landscaping, water gardens, lobby spaces, business lounges, and ground-floor apartments to create what Cavcorp describes as a climate-responsive “urban verandah.”

The tower itself has been designed as a slender form with recessed floorplates and curved translucent corners inspired by contemporary Japanese architecture. The building height aligns with the Commercial Road precinct controls, which permit towers up to 15 storeys within proximity to Longland Street.

<img alt="First Look: Cavcorp unveils Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane plans for landmark wellness tower in Teneriffe" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a8a17d40-43b6-4718-b3fd-67676fcbb485" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/pers%202_1.png?VersionId=i3VwDtp5AmL_8InW7w4qRbDFEpb744Jt" />

The project will comprise a mix of larger-format apartments aimed at owner-occupiers, downsizers, and families. The proposed apartment mix includes 11 loggia apartments across the lower levels, 50 four-bedroom Sky-Terrace apartments from levels three to seven, and 32 Sky-Pool Homes occupying the upper tower levels. The Sky-Pool Homes will feature private thermal plunge pools integrated into oversized balconies.

According to the application, the apartments are intended to reinterpret the scale and character of Teneriffe’s woolstore conversions and Queensland homes within a vertical residential format.

“The sky-pool homes build on Cavcorp’s previous projects and introduce a distinct apartment typology to Teneriffe, informed by both local and international precedent and responding to an identified market demand for enhanced safety, space and amenity,” the planning submission notes.

A major focus of the proposal is its five-level wellness and lifestyle offering, extending from the basement through to the rooftop.

Amenities proposed include a rooftop Swim &amp; Racquet Club with a 25-metre Olympic lap pool and tennis court, coworking spaces and libraries, golf simulators, wine storage, concierge facilities, business lounges, pet wash areas, and rooftop longevity-focused wellness spaces with spas, outdoor fitness zones, and landscaped terraces.

<img alt="First Look: Cavcorp unveils Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane plans for landmark wellness tower in Teneriffe" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="944b352c-49b9-4247-a4c6-5967b4b69fda" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/amenity.png?VersionId=Ed_qKjAtMwFT.5gfl3jiA9QwdWxSMsaX" />

All parking will be concealed within basement levels accessed from Wyandra and Helen Streets. Cavcorp says the deep-basement engineering approach allows the entire ground plane to prioritise landscaping, pedestrian movement, and active frontage rather than vehicle infrastructure.

The development continues Cavcorp’s concentration in Newstead and Teneriffe, where the Brisbane developer has delivered a number of apartment projects including Lucent, Le Bain, and Luminare, as well as the Long Island Wellness Precinct nearby. Several of those projects have received national design and architecture awards, including recognition under Brisbane’s “Buildings that Breathe” program.

Cavcorp unveils wellness-focused Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane apartment buildings

Focus Group Investments has lodged plans for a new apartment development at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/64-70-hanover-street-fitzroy-vic-3065">64–70 Hanover Street</a> in Fitzroy, seeking to utilise the Victorian Government’s recently introduced Great Design Fast Track pathway to accelerate approvals for the project.

The proposal is among the latest developments to emerge through the state-led initiative, which was established to fast-track well-designed residential projects in activity centres and transport-connected inner-city locations. The pathway allows qualifying developments that meet elevated design and housing benchmarks to bypass traditional council planning timeframes and instead be assessed directly by the Department of Transport and Planning.

Designed by SJB, the development will comprise a mix of apartments above activated lower levels, with a strong focus on architectural articulation, landscaping, and communal amenity. The design response seeks to balance the industrial character of Richmond’s former warehouse precincts with a more contemporary residential form.

<img alt="First look: Focus Group Investments taps Victoria’s Great Design Fast Track for Richmond apartments" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="abea51cc-d85b-479e-9aef-a589f3b37ca7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/ground.png?VersionId=e1Kf8EyPWwyiVumtqQ4rM5S4GpOR3CCz" />

Proposed are 63 new dwellings, a wide ranging mix of studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, and townhouses and duplexes. They will be spread across a part-three, part-eight storey building.

The Planning and Urban Context Report by Tract says the development is of an "exemplary architectural standard" and has been carefully crafted by SJB Architects.

"Dwellings&nbsp;will benefit from excellent access to natural light, cross-ventilation opportunities and extensive communal space," the report noted.

The architectural material highlights the project’s integration of landscaped elements and communal spaces throughout the building. The proposal also incorporates sustainability initiatives aligned with the Victorian Government’s push for higher-performing apartment developments under the fast-track program.

The Great Design Fast Track was unveiled by the Victorian Government in 2024 as part of a broader housing supply strategy aimed at accelerating the delivery of new homes. Projects assessed through the pathway must demonstrate high-quality architecture, sustainability outcomes, and housing diversity while being located close to public transport and existing infrastructure.

<img alt="First look: Focus Group Investments taps Victoria’s Great Design Fast Track for Richmond apartments" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="afdbe834-8dc4-4a77-a943-ba07bc927348" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/site_11.png?VersionId=0J657j.TaChAZfp93wqJYBTqSsnREJx2" />

Focus Group, founder and led by Paul De Lutiis, is increasingly active across Melbourne’s inner suburbs, targeting well-connected urban renewal locations suited to medium and higher-density residential development. The Fitzroy proposal continues that strategy, leveraging the area’s strong transport links, established retail amenity, and proximity to the CBD.

Fitzroy has been one of the most popular spots for developers and buyers in recent years. The likes of PACE Development Group, SMA Projects, Crema Group and Chapter Group, currently selling projects in the suburb.

First look: Focus Group Investments taps Victoria’s Great Design Fast Track for Fitzroy apartments

The Gold Coast Planning Committee has supported the preliminary approval for the Benowa Gardens Urban Village project following an extensive community consultation and assessment process.

The proposal will now proceed to a full council vote on June 2.

The application sought approval for a masterplanned urban village on the existing Benowa Gardens Shopping Centre site, combining new housing, retail, dining, health and lifestyle amenities within a walkable, integrated precinct.&nbsp;

The proposed redevelopment includes around 413 apartments integrated above a revitalised mixed-use centre featuring a full-line supermarket of 4,000 sqm, 6,000 sqm of specialty retail and dining space across around 30 retailers, a 7,000 sqm health and wellness precinct, and roughly 9,630 sqm of office and medical suites.&nbsp;

<img alt="$1b Benowa Gardens Urban Village moves to Full Council following Planning Committee support" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fb36ae47-80bc-45f0-9914-31b0c7b6007d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/PR26576%20Ashmore%20Road%20C4%201121%20FI.jpg?VersionId=6mRKk2uU4r67TmTt39DKGUlvFRbTVqWa" />

The broader masterplan also includes very significant traffic and transport improvements, wide pedestrian walkways, upgraded pedestrian and cycle connections, and enhanced public areas designed to create a more connected and walkable community environment.&nbsp;

Centre owner Patrick Lu said the milestone reflected months of detailed planning, technical assessment and ongoing communication with local residents, businesses, schools and stakeholders.

“We appreciate the time, consideration and care Council officers and the Planning Committee have given this proposal throughout the assessment process,” Lu said.

“We also sincerely thank the local community for engaging with us, sharing feedback and participating in the consultation process over many months.

<img alt="$1b Benowa Gardens Urban Village moves to Full Council following Planning Committee support" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="32fd1fc3-d0e6-485f-ac57-9916c9bcb818" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/PR26576%20Ashmore%20Road%20C5%201121%20FI_2.jpg?VersionId=fz8qQKDBLQ7MyFRc856Zccfbh9nFwLOe" />

“We understand projects of this scale bring questions and concerns, which is why we have worked hard to listen carefully, provide information transparently and continue refining elements of the proposal where possible.

“Our vision has always been to create a well-designed, community-focused urban village that responds to the changing needs of the Gold Coast, while delivering improved amenity, housing diversity, healthcare access and local lifestyle benefits.

“This proposal is about creating a genuine live-work-play environment where residents can access everyday services, schools, healthcare, dining, shopping and green space within walking distance, while also supporting local jobs and economic activity.”

<img alt="$1b Benowa Gardens Urban Village moves to Full Council following Planning Committee support" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="50dfbd04-590e-4fc6-983b-766880947867" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Dining%20Day%20Time%20-%20High%20Resolution.jpg?VersionId=BP7ZoKJ0DdL_8iRkkC8VVx99moICV6kg" />

Lu said the proposal had evolved significantly through consultation and technical review, particularly around traffic, pedestrian and student safety and neighbourhood connectivity.&nbsp;

Melissa Griffin, Director at Urbis, said the recommendation recognised the strategic importance of delivering more housing and services within established urban areas already supported by infrastructure.

“This proposal represents the type of thoughtful, integrated growth that planning frameworks across South-East Queensland are encouraging,” Ms Griffin said.

“The project seeks to place housing, retail, healthcare and employment opportunities together in a highly accessible location close to schools, transport and existing services.

“Importantly, the process has involved significant technical assessment and community engagement to ensure local issues and feedback were properly considered throughout the planning pathway.”

$1 billion Benowa Gardens Urban Village heads to council vote following Planning Committee support

Surfers Paradise is officially set for its first new residential development with a 45-storey skybridge connecting the two towers.

John Camilleri’s Celestino Developments has been given the green light by the Gold Coast City Council to develop its major beachfront precinct across its huge 4,000 sqm oceanfront site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/63-79-garfield-terrace-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">63–79 Garfield Terrace</a>, just five months after its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-exclusive-billionaire-winx-breeder-s-bold-two-tower-surfers-paradise-play-with-45th-storey-skybridge">submission in late 2025</a>.

The approved scheme will deliver two towers rising 55 and 48 storeys, connected by a skybridge positioned on level 45 that will house a range of resident-only wellness and entertainment spaces.

In its notice of approval, the Gold Coast City Council said the&nbsp;proposed overall built form has been designed to complement the scale, intensity and protect the adjacent amenity and surrounding streets through the use of varied setbacks, site cover and architectural elements.

<img alt="First look exclusive: Billionaire Winx breeder’s bold two-tower Surfers Paradise play with 45th-storey skybridge" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_75/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Screenshot%202025-12-30%20at%209.53.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=ADyPJ_TFbJvSU9wZFOiCBnlPtgF7VWqW" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/dbi">DBI</a>, the development will comprise 275 apartments across the two towers, including a mix of two-, three-, and four-bedroom residences, as well as several penthouses. The apartments will sit above a landscaped podium featuring more than 90 metres of beachfront pool frontage, private resident lawns, lounges, and wellness spaces.

DBI said the design draws heavily from the movement and form of the coastal environment, with curving balcony lines and sculpted façades intended to soften the scale of the towers while maximising ocean outlooks and passive shading outcomes.

“The project occupies a rare, uninterrupted oceanfront site and has been shaped by a design philosophy that merges architectural elegance with environmental responsiveness and a carefully curated lifestyle experience,” DBI said in planning documents submitted to the Gold Coast City Council.

The most distinctive element of the approved project is the skybridge linking the two towers at level 45. The elevated communal space is planned to include executive lounges, formal dining areas, wellness facilities, and panoramic ocean-facing outlooks.

“The skybridge enhances the identity of the development, promotes social interaction, and delivers a lifestyle experience not found elsewhere on the Gold Coast,” DBI said.

At podium level, residents will have access to a suite of resort-style amenities, including resident lounges, private dining rooms, a yoga lawn, gymnasium, plunge pools, and treatment spaces. The beachfront pool has been designed with separate lap, lounge, and children’s areas extending across the width of the site.

The project will also introduce new food and beverage offerings along the Enderley Avenue and Oceanway frontages, contributing additional activation to the beachfront precinct.

First look: Winx billionaire’s beachfront Surfers Paradise apartment development greenlit

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?

ANZ believes the Reserve Bank is in no rush to move again.

Following the release of the May Monetary Policy Board Minutes, ANZ has taken the view that the RBA is now firmly in a holding pattern, with the cumulative impact of previous rate hikes giving the Board scope to assess how the economy evolves from here.

That positioning, in ANZ’s view, makes a June rate hike unlikely.

The bank continues to expect the cash rate to remain unchanged at 4.35 per cent for an extended period, with the RBA adopting what is effectively a wait-and-see approach.

The Minutes point to a Board that sees financial conditions as already restrictive, but without a clear read on just how restrictive they are. That uncertainty has shifted the focus away from immediate policy action and toward monitoring both domestic conditions and global developments, particularly the conflict in the Middle East.

As ANZ interprets it, the Board is deliberately avoiding strong forward guidance.

Instead, it is allowing itself flexibility, acknowledging that monetary policy has limited ability to influence the near-term trajectory of inflation, while also recognising that economic growth is likely to remain below potential for some time.

Despite that pause in momentum, ANZ notes that the Board still carries a tightening bias.

The Minutes reveal that, in weighing up its decision, the Board seriously considered another 25 basis point increase. The key debate centred on the trade-off between inflation and activity, particularly in the context of global uncertainty.

Ultimately, most members leaned toward the inflation side of that equation.

Underlying inflation is still expected to remain above target for an extended period, regardless of how external risks evolve. That has led to a view within the Board that the risks to its inflation objective have increased, and that the current cash rate may not be sufficiently restrictive to fully contain those pressures.

That’s important.

While the decision, for now, is to hold, the underlying tone of the Minutes suggests the door to further tightening has not been closed.

ANZ also points to commentary from Assistant Governor (Economic) Sarah Hunter, who highlighted the risk that inflation could pass through the economy more quickly and broadly than in previous cycles. Both Hunter and a majority of the Board expressed concern that inflation expectations could become less anchored after such a prolonged period above target.

That combination, persistent inflation and the risk of expectations shifting, is what continues to underpin the RBA’s cautious stance.

However, where ANZ diverges from the RBA is on the outlook for activity.

The Board appears relatively comfortable with current spending patterns, effectively downplaying recent declines in business and consumer sentiment. It notes that sentiment has historically been only weakly correlated with actual spending, and that feedback from its liaison program has not yet pointed to a meaningful slowdown in consumption.

ANZ is less convinced.

The bank believes the link between household disposable income, sentiment and spending is more direct than the RBA is currently acknowledging. With inflation continuing to erode real incomes, ANZ expects household spending to soften more materially than the central bank is forecasting.

That divergence matters because it shifts the balance of risk.

If activity weakens more than expected, the trade-off between inflation and growth changes. In ANZ’s view, that would reduce the need for further tightening and reinforce the case for the RBA to remain on hold.

It also suggests that the current policy setting may already be doing more work than the Board fully appreciates.

The broader takeaway from ANZ’s interpretation is that the RBA is walking a narrow path.

On one side sits the risk of inflation remaining elevated for longer than expected. On the other is the growing pressure on households and the potential for a sharper slowdown in activity.

For now, the Board is choosing to wait.

But it is a pause that still carries an underlying tightening bias, rather than a clear pivot toward easing.

In practical terms, that leaves the cash rate anchored at 4.35 per cent for the foreseeable future, with the next move still uncertain.

For borrowers, it reinforces the reality that relief is not imminent.

And for the broader economy, it highlights the delicate balance the RBA is trying to strike, between bringing inflation back to target and avoiding an unnecessarily sharp slowdown in growth.

According to ANZ, it is a balance that is becoming increasingly difficult to maintain.

RBA to hold rates for "prolonged period" rather than hikes: ANZ

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School holidays, along with the grand final weekend, meant there were just the 47 auctions in Melbourne, where agents secured a 59% success rate. There was a 57% clearance rate from the 119 reported results in Sydney.
Melbourne’s dearest sale was $857,000 in Hughesdale. Melbourne’s clearance rate averaged just 54% in September, the lowest September since 2004. Stock levels are set to rise to 565 auctions next weekend and to 730 auctions in a fortnight, according to the Real Estate Institute of Victoria, with the real test towards the end of October when 850 properties go under the hammer.
Sydney’s dearest weekend sale was in Maroubra yesterday at $2.7 million through Ray White agents Phillip Elmowy and Nader Hotait. The house was built in 2003 on a hillside block that cost $670,000 in 1994.
Sydney's median house price for the three months to August fell by 1.8% to $643,315, compared with the previous quarter, according to the latest Australian Property Monitors data.
The median price for units also fell by 1.8% to $448,024.
Despite these falls, the median house price has decreased by just 0.6% over the year to August, with the median price for units remaining stable, according to Dr Andrew Wilson, the senior economist for Australian Property Monitors
Sydney's house price performance over the past year remains the best of all capitals, and equal to Canberra's, which was also down by 0.6%.
Only Darwin recorded a better performance in median unit price growth.
The main division in the various Sydney markets was between properties priced under $1 million and those above $1 million, according to estate agent John McGrath.
"Under $1 million is performing actually quite well and over a million is still the quieter part of the market," he told Fairfax Media. 
John McGrath offered a regional metropolitan snapshot for Sydney, including:
Western suburbs - Job fears hinder activity
Parramatta region - Good sales up to $600,000
Hills district - Performing well under $1 million
Upper north shore - Strong up to $1.25 million
Northern beaches - Buyers less confident, hesitant
Lower north shore - Investor market strong
Eastern suburbs - Good sales under $1 million
Inner west - Young professionals driving market
South - Strong in St George, less so in Sutherland shire
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Weekend auction wrap: Where the hammer fell

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The so-so September auction results – and associated overly negative headlines – have thwarted the anticipated surge in October listings.
The discretionary vendors of Melbourne and Sydney have possibly postponed listings until 2012.
October stock levels seem set to be down by about 20% on last year in both capitals.
Despite the subdued spring volume, it’s still a buyer’s market, albeit there are the occasional strong prices.
Sydney vendors notched up a 55% clearance rate from its 314 weekend listings.
Melbourne recorded a 53% clearance rate from its 557 listings.
Both capital city clearance rates are down on the same time last year, when Sydney achieved 60% and Melbourne 62% from the corresponding weekend of 2010.
Any late surge in listings in November or December could test the market, which has effectively been in a cooling state of equilibrium now for much of this year.
The most expensive home sold at auction at the weekend was a four-bedroom house in the Sydney suburb of Mosman. Its $3.05 million sale fell well short of its initial $3.7 million plus hopes when it was marketed in August – and well below the then revised expectations of $3.5 million in September. It last sold at $2.6 million in September 2009 and before that at $3 million in 2007.
Things were far more bullish for the most expensive Melbourne property – a double-fronted three bedroom Victorian era house in Hawthorn – which had been quoted by Jellis Craig at between $1.6 million and $1.8 million.
The property was on the market at $1.7 million and sold for $2,225,000.
The Johnson Street vendors knocked back a pre-auction offer of $1.7 million.
Melbourne buyers’ agent Greville Pabst says the reduced volume was due to the vendors holding back in anticipation of improved selling conditions.
“This decision follows months of poor sentiment propagated by media reports of falling house price and delicate economic conditions,” Pabst says.
“While diminished in quantity, there remains a revolving stock of quality properties of various asset classes in high-performance areas across Melbourne.
“Selecting these limited number of properties requires due diligence on behalf of buyers, but is a process that will yield significant long-term benefits if undertaken correctly,” Pabst suggests.
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The auction at 12/29B  Hampden Road, Armadale sums up the current market sentiment of cautious buying. The property failed to attract a bid and was passed in on a vendor bid of $560,000. However, soon after the auction multiple buyers came out of the woodwork to declare their interest and the property was sold late on Saturday afternoon for $620,000.

<img src="/images/stories/hampden.jpg">
Sale price: $620,000
Agent quote: $550,000 to $620,000
% above agent quote: 0%
Bidders: 0
Last sold: November 2008 at $542,000
Growth since last sale:  4.69%
Median growth: 7.92%
Average tip: $622,238
% Correct tips  45.68%
This result indicates a more significant softening in the apartment market and this is creating good buying opportunities for savvy investors who understand the property market in blue-chip locations does not stay on its knees for very long. When the market bounces back in the years to come these properties are more likely to benefit from a greater level of capital growth. 
The average tip for this property was just $2,000 above the sale price, and almost 50% of tippers on <a href="https://www.propertytycoon.com.au/">propertytycoon.com.au </a>added this property to their portfolios.
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cknowlton-QnEa6ntUYP

Weekend auction tipping result

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Over the last 10 years the Australian population has experienced a "baby bounce", a term coined by well-known demographer Bernard Salt. The baby bounce occurred when generation X stopped partying and playing the field and looked at settling down to start a family.
The older gen X'rs are now in their 40s and when they first left home many of them moved from the middle suburbs where their baby boomer and post-war parents lived into the inner suburbs looking for lifestyle. Loving the lifestyle they purchased their first homes in the area, usually an apartment or little house. As they approached their 30s they began to settle down and started to look for a larger home where they could raise a family.
They had become addicted to the inner-city way of life and wanted this to continue. Many of the inner-eastern suburbs such as Hawthorn, Malvern and Camberwell were dominated by baby boomers and far too expensive for them, so they broadened their search looking for emerging inner-city enclaves.
Fairfield and the surrounding suburbs was one of the areas that had both the size of land they needed into the future while also allowing them to maintain their inner-city lifestyle.
Demand from young gen Xers who were taking the next steps in their careers and beginning to hit their incoming earning straps began to skyrocket in areas that has these characteristics and as a result capital growth took off. Fairfield is a great example of this trend where at the end of 2005 the median house price was $476,250 and by the end of 2010 it had climbed to $889,000, a massive 13.30% growth each year.
Although 71 Perry St Fairfield is unlikely to achieve that level of growth since its last sale it certainly does tick the boxes for the characteristics that these gen Xers are looking for.
<a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/71-perry-street-fairfield/Property-Details-buy-residential-3244599_S" target="_blank">71 Perry Street, Fairfield</a>
<img src="/images/stories/perryst.jpg">
Agent: Nelson Alexander
Quote: $1.1 million to $1.2 million
Last Sold: November 2003
Price: $697,000
Suburb median: $889,000
Five-year median growth: 13.3%
There's now a website, <a href="https://www.propertytycoon.com.au/" target="_blank" style="font-size: 14px; text-align: left;">www.propertytycoon.com.au</a>, where Melburnians can guess auction results, with no outlay. It's mostly about testing your market knowledge with a small cash prize as a sweetener.
If you think you know what it will sell for place a tip at <a href="https://www.propertytycoon.com.au/" target="_blank">Property Tycoon</a>.
 
 
 
 
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Weekend auction tipping

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It was another humdrum weekend of auctions.
No sparkle this spring. But estate agents will be pleased that the slight increase in volumes has been met with a relatively steady clearance rates.
<img src="/images/stories/57per.jpg">
The weekend auction clearance rate for both Melbourne and Sydney this past weekend. For Sydney, this was just a tick down on the previous weekend's 58%, according to Australian Property Monitors.
Melbourne agents reported a minor improvement with 57% of listings selling, compared with 54% on the previous weekend, according to the Real Estate Institute of Victoria.
 Both results were well down on the 69% on the same weekend last year in Melbourne and the 62% in Sydney last September.
 
<hr>
 
<img src="/images/stories/11500.jpg">
The Real Estate Institute of Victoria says so far this year just over 11,500 homes have sold at auction in Victoria. "This is less than 2010, 2008 and 2007 but more than in either 2009 or 2006," REIV chief executive Enzo Raimondo says. The total Melbourne auctions volume from the weekend was $253 million.
 
<hr>
<img src="/images/stories/747k.jpg"> 
The median Melbourne auction sale was $747,000 for houses. It was $537,000 for Melbourne units. There were 11 vacant Melbourne blocks of land selling at a $293,000 median. 
 
<hr>
 
<img src="/images/stories/593num.jpg">
There were Melbourne 593 auctions on the weekend, compared with the 616 the previous weekend. There is an increase in the number of auctions next weekend to 740 before a reduction for the AFL grand final weekend. 
The REIV says Melbourne's dearest house weekend sales was on Gardiner Road, Hawthorn at $3,580,500. Melbourne cheapest house sales was Hillman Street Laverton at $272,000.
 
<hr>
 
<img src="/images/stories/170m.jpg">
The total Sydney sales volume from the weekend was $170 million. There was an $880,000 median house price from the Sydney sales. 
There was a $570,000 median unit price from the Sydney sales. Sydney's dearest sale was a $2.55 million unit on Wharf Road, Birchgrove through Cobden &amp; Hayson. Sydney's cheapest sale was a three-bedroom house at Eagle Vale, which fetched $274,000 through Ray White Campbelltown.
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8/174 Esplanade East, Port Melbourne, VIC, 3207
<img src="/images/stories/esplanadeeast.jpg"> 
This one-bedroom apartment with a car space in Port Melbourne is one block away from the bay and within walking distance of Port Melbourne's shops and attractions. It is currently owner-occupied but could prove appealing for tenants. <a href="https://www.hockingstuart.com.au/" title="Hocking Stuar" target="_blank">Hocking Stuart</a> agent Jason Holod estimates that the property would rent for $400 per week, and it has price hopes of $390,000 plus. If it sells for $390,000 and is rented at $400 per week, that would be a gross rental yield of 5.3%, far higher than the indicative gross rental yield for Port Melbourne units of 4.3%, according to RP Data. The gross rental yield does not consider the costs of maintaining the property, including council rates and other fees such as water bills and managing agent fees. The property will go to auction on Saturday, September 24 at 11.30am.
For more about indicative gross rental yields and prices in Port Melbourne, see the RP Data suburb page.
For other investment prospects going to auction this weekend, see pages 2 and 3.
 
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
 
17/93-103 Euston Road, Alexandria, NSW, 2015
<img src="/images/stories/euston.jpg"> 
This dual-level townhouse-style apartment could appeal to tenants, as it is within walking distance of St Peters and Erskineville train stations. The two-bedroom, two-bathroom unit comes with a car parking space, and it is close to King Street and Erskineville village. <a href="https://www.sydneyboutique.com.au/pol/property/search.asp?f_PropertyID=1765181&amp;f_AgentID=4331&amp;xsl=4331&amp;f_st=1" title="Sydney Boutique Property" target="_blank">Sydney Boutique Property</a> agent Tom Scarpignato has completed a rental analysis of the property and estimates it would secure about $600 per week in rent. The property has $600,000 plus hopes. If it sells at that price a $600-per-week rent would secure an investor a gross rental yield of 5.2%. The indicative gross rental yield for units in Alexandria is 6%, according to RP Data. The gross rental yield does not consider the costs of maintaining the property, including council rates and other fees such as water bills and managing agent fees. The property will go to auction on Saturday, September 24 at 1.45pm. 
For more about indicative gross rental yields and prices in Alexandria, see the RP Data suburb page.
 
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
 
14/239 Canterbury Road, St Kilda, VIC, 3182
<img src="/images/stories/canterburyroad.jpg"> 
This studio apartment in fashionable St Kilda West comes with its own car park and is seconds away from a tram stop serving two lines. The property is currently tenanted, and the tenants are keen to stay. Similar properties in the area rent for about $290 per week. <a target="_blank" title="Hocking Stuart" href="https://www.hockingstuart.com.au/">Hocking Stuart</a> agent Simon Graf is marketing the property with price hopes of $240,000 plus. If it sells for $240,000 and is rented for $290 per week, that would secure an investor a gross rental yield of 6.3%, well above the indicative gross rental yield for St Kilda West units of 3.8%. The gross rental yield does not consider the costs of maintaining the property, including council rates and other fees such as water bills and managing agent fees. The property will go to auction on Saturday, September 24 at 11am. 
For more about indicative gross rental yields and prices in St Kilda West, see the <a target="_blank" href="/news">RP Data suburb page</a>.
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Friday Form Guide: Yields of up to 5.3% in Port Melbourne

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There's now a website, <a href="https://www.propertytycoon.com.au" target="_blank">www.propertytycoon.com.au</a>, where Melburnians can guess auction results, with no outlay. It's mostly about testing your market knowledge with a small cash prize as a sweetener.
Auction numbers will peak this weekend at 880. This is an increase of 30% from last weekend and up by a massive 50% from two weeks ago.

This is a predictable trend as most vendors don't want to run a sale campaign over the Melbourne Cup weekend. We see a similar increase in auction numbers leading up to long weekends, Easter and AFL grand final.

For tippers and buyers however these weekends often result in a softer market and better buying opportunities. This is because buyers are spread out more thinly across a larger number of competing properties.
One of the five properties featured this weekend is:
<img src="/images/stories/napierst.jpg">
<a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/168-napier-street-south-melbourne/Property-Details-buy-residential-3135469_S" target="_blank">168 Napier Street, South Melbourne </a>
Agent: Hocking Stuart - Michael Coen
Quote: $1.3 million to$1.35 million
Last sold: June 1994
Price: $300,000
Suburb median: $962,500
Five-year median growth: 9.62% 
Located close to Albert Park Lake and the South Melbourne Market, this tightly held property has not been sold for almost 20 years. A sale price on Saturday of  $1.35 million will mean the property has been growing at a rate similar to the suburb median over the last five years. This level of growth will mean the property has been growing by about 1% more per year than the Melbourne median over the same time frame.  
If you think you know what it will sell for place a tip at <a href="https://www.propertytycoon.com.au" target="_blank">Property Tycoon</a>.
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There's now a website, <a style="font-size: 14px; text-align: left;" href="https://www.propertytycoon.com.au/" target="_blank">www.propertytycoon.com.au</a>, where Melburnians can guess auction results, with no outlay. It's mostly about testing your market knowledge with a small cash prize as a sweetener.
Melbourne's auction market will continue to build leading up to Christmas now we have passed the Melbourne Cup weekend, with 595 properties due to go under the hammer this weekend. But regardless of how many auctions there are it is very rare to find a property similar to 30 Elwood Street, Brighton on any weekend throughout the year.
The property sits on almost 1/4 of an acre and has been very tightly held over the years, last being sold about 20 years ago. Determining the value of this calibre of property can often be very difficult. Property valuation is determined by the recent sale results of similar properties in the area. The problem is with such unique property there are no comparable sales to use as a guide. 
On the day of auction if two buyers have fallen in love with the property the desire to secure it can result in a sale price that is out of kilter with the rest of the market. However, uncertainty in global markets could mean that the traditional buyer for this property is too nervous to make a move. 
The result of 30 Elwood Street Brighton will be a very good test for the top end of the Melbourne property market.
<img src="/images/stories/elwoodst.jpg">
Agent: Kay &amp; Burton agent Mark Bury
Quote: $2.5 million to $2.75 million
Last sold: May 1992
Price: $620,000
Suburb median: $1,768,500
Five-year median growth: 10.16%
If you think you know what it will sell for place a tip at <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertytycoon.com.au/">Property Tycoon</a>.
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A Prahran property going to auction this weekend will test the market for solid family homes, says Mark Armstrong of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertytycoon.com.au/">Property Tycoon</a>.
"24 Alfred St Prahran is a property that in theory should be in strong demand. It is in a great location, has a strong facade and is in comfortable living condition with scope to improve it," Armstrong says.
But with auction clearances in Melbourne under 60% for many months, this property will be a test of the market. 
"Traditionally this type of property is highly sought after by investors and early home buyers, who have both been thin on the ground in 2011. The result for 24 Alfred St Prahran will be a good test to see how well this sector of the market is holding up," Armstrong says.
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.domain.com.au/Property/For-Sale/House/VIC/Prahran/?adid=2009324136">24 Alfred Street, Prahran, VIC, 3181</a>
<img src="/images/stories/alfredst.jpg">
Agent: Bennison MacKinnon agent Nathan Waterson
Quote: $780,000 to $850,000
Last Sold: May 2005
Price: $551,000
Suburb median: $950,000
Five-year median growth: 10.9%
If you think you know what it will sell for place a tip at <a href="https://www.propertytycoon.com.au/" target="_blank">Property Tycoon</a>.
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Good-quality and affordable family homes in the inner suburbs are often in short supply regardless of market conditions. Consistent demand from growing family and a lack of supply helped 71 Perry Street Fairfield grow by 3% more than the wider market since its last sale in 2003. The opening bid was $1.1 million and was quickly followed by 20 bids of $10,000 in less than a minute before it was sold under the hammer for $1.3 million.
“This result shows that even in a very weak property market some property is still holds up well,” Mark Armstrong from the property auction analysis website propertytycoon,com.au notes.
“The current property market is the perfect time for home buyers to upgrade their family home, because although they may sell their existing property for 5% to 10% less than they could have achieved a year ago they will also buy for 5% to 10% less.
“In dollars terms there is greater benefit in the savings achieved when buying a more expensive property compared to the loss on the sale of a cheaper property,” he adds.
71 Perry Street, Fairfield, VIC, 3018
<img src="/images/stories/perryst.jpg"> 
Sale price: Sold $1.3 million
Agent quote: $1.1 million to $1.2 million
% above agent quote: 7.69%
Bidders: Two
Last sold:  November 2003 for $697,000
Growth since last sale:  8.11%
Median growth:   5.07%
Average tip:  $1,200,998
% Correct tips: 9.72%
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertytycoon.com.au/">Property Tycoon</a> allows punters to guess auction results with no outlay.
 
 
 
 
 
 
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