<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/broadbeach-qld-4218">Broadbeach</a> offers plenty of reasons to live vertically, but moving from a substantial family home into an apartment can expose the compromises of high-density living. Privacy, room for guests and usable living space tend to matter more when an apartment is intended as a permanent home rather than an occasional coastal base.

A typical residential floor at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-eveleigh-broadbeach-7-9-surf-parade-broadbeach-qld-4218">The Eveleigh</a>, on Surf Parade,&nbsp;contains just four apartments. The 94-residence development by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/hirsch-faigen">Hirsch &amp; Faigen</a> is predominantly made up of expansive three-bedroom homes, with a limited collection of half-floor penthouses above.

Across the apartment floors, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a> has used the relatively limited number of residences to give each home greater access to natural light and outlook. Living spaces extend towards full-height glazing, while a series of bay windows frame selected views across the Pacific Ocean, city and hinterland rather than treating the building edge as a continuous wall of glass.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149670 project_image_fid=360965]

“The apartment floors deliver a collection of homes that embrace controlled outlook via a series of bay windows deliberately framing moments of view,” Rothelowman Director Kim Lowman said.

From outside, those projecting forms contribute to the tower’s faceted profile. Strong horizontal and vertical elements establish its proportions, while the changing position of the sun alters the light, shadow and reflection across the façade throughout the day.

The same attention moves inside the apartments, where the material palette combines warm timber, natural stone, metallic detailing and softer curved forms. Kitchens sit within the main living zone, with stone island benches, integrated joinery and European appliances, before the living areas extend towards the glazing and the outlook.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149670 project_image_fid=360981]

Three genuine bedrooms provide room to accommodate family and guests, while two secure car spaces and storage address some of the practical considerations that can become more noticeable when moving from a larger home. Feedback from the display suite has centred on the warmth and restraint of the interiors, with buyers commenting that the residences feel like homes rather than conventional coastal apartments.

A limited collection of half-floor penthouses occupies the upper levels, increasing the scale of the living spaces and adding private balconies and elevated finishes. From this position, the outlook extends between the ocean and hinterland.

Outside the private residences, The Eveleigh separates its shared spaces between the podium and rooftop. The podium is centred on wellness, with subtropical landscaping surrounding a swimming pool and pool terrace, yoga garden, private gymnasium, sauna and hot and cold plunge facilities. Landscaped retreats and pavilions provide additional places to sit away from the main recreation areas.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149670 project_image_fid=360966]

Higher in the building, a rooftop pavilion and private dining suite sit alongside resident lounge, barbecue and outdoor dining areas, opening towards panoramic views across the ocean, city and hinterland.

“Buyers are no longer just looking for an apartment, but a lifestyle where they can relax, reset, and enjoy a balanced way of living,” Hirsch &amp; Faigen Director of Sales Matt George said.

Interest to date has come from established owner-occupiers and interstate lifestyle purchasers, including buyers planning a future move to the Gold Coast. Many are coming from larger homes and want to reduce ongoing maintenance without giving up space for family and guests, privacy, two car spaces or the ability to entertain at home.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149670 project_image_fid=360969]

Much of that daily life can also take place beyond the building without requiring a drive. Kurrawa Beach and Pratten Park are an easy walk from Surf Parade, while Pacific Fair, Oracle Boulevard, The Oasis, restaurants, cafés, entertainment and public transport are also within walking distance.

The Eveleigh is Hirsch &amp; Faigen's fourth Gold Coast development since entering the market in 2021, following The Hemingway at Palm Beach, The Emerson at Kirra and Yves at Mermaid Beach. Each of the preceding projects sold out before completion.

“Broadbeach had been on our radar throughout our time operating on the Gold Coast,” the developer said. “Following our projects in Palm Beach, Kirra and Mermaid Beach, Broadbeach represented the natural next step for the business.”

The Surf Parade site brought together proximity to the beach, protected coastal outlooks and walkability to dining, shopping and recreation. Hirsch &amp; Faigen also identified the street as an emerging premium residential address, with enough separation from Broadbeach's busier destinations to retain a quieter environment at home.

The Eveleigh is now under construction by Maxcon, with completion forecast for mid-2028. Three-bedroom residences are currently available from $2.87 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=149670]

Joel Robinson

The Eveleigh brings house-like apartments to Broadbeach

A long-stalled Campbelltown development site is back in play, with new plans for 139 apartments set to supersede a mixed-use scheme approved almost a decade ago but never built.

The new proposal for 28 Cordeaux Street would deliver 116 market and 23 affordable apartments in a part 14-storey building, bringing a substantial new project into a Campbelltown market where new apartment supply remains limited.

Plans have been filed over the 3,092 sqm corner site at Moore-Oxley Street, around 600 metres from Campbelltown Railway Station and the city-centre retail core.

The site already carries a mixed-use residential approval dating to 2016. Doroch Architects has now been engaged on a larger replacement scheme, which is progressing as a State Significant Development Application following a Housing Delivery Authority determination in August 2025.

The apartment mix comprises 39 one-bedroom, 72 two-bedroom and 28 three-bedroom residences. Two-bedroom apartments make up just over half of the project, while three-bedroom homes account for 20 per cent.

<img alt="First look: New 139-apartment plans revive long-stalled Campbelltown city centre site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="136dd5b9-3791-4da6-9e31-76f533f5b4de" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Campbelltown%20da2.png?VersionId=LgOSy9nwf5u.MGswBBwaGGxuX8QpHSl_" />

Of the 139 apartments, 23 will be delivered as affordable housing under the in-fill affordable housing provisions of the Housing SEPP. The affordable component represents 15 per cent of the residential gross floor area and will be managed by a registered Community Housing Provider.

Doroch has sought to break the scale of the building into two distinct elements, with a masonry podium of around four storeys establishing the street edge before the residential tower steps back above.

The corner position has shaped that approach. Cordeaux Street faces toward the commercial and civic centre, while Moore-Oxley Street leads into the lower-scale residential neighbourhood to the south, and the design verification report describes the site as "bridging the commercial core to the north and established residential areas to the south."

The podium will be expressed predominantly in face brick, while the upper levels shift to brushed and grooved concrete cladding with darker metal detailing. Recessed sections, deep balcony edges and landscaping break down the upper form, with an approximately 11.8-metre setback to the northern boundary addressing the adjoining St Peters Anglican School.

<img alt="First look: New 139-apartment plans revive long-stalled Campbelltown city centre site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c8b3d2d3-c561-4bfc-a5d9-a68c0c10dac1" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Campbelltown%20da1.png?VersionId=AeAEyJU02Gk2k5noUj2StziCvdQ7fW4B" />

Campbelltown has been starved of new residential developments in the last decade.

The only other notable development set to come to market this year is ALAND's Queen Square, a mixed-use precinct on over two hectares that will comprise apartments above a vibrant ground-level retail and hospitality dining precinct.

First look: New 139-apartment plans revive long-stalled Campbelltown city centre site

First Look: Sherlock Construction pitches apartments for low-rise Deception Bay

Queensland builder-developer MAYD has revealed the first look at its major North Kirra beachfront development, lodging amended plans that reduce the number of apartments and increase the proportion of larger residences.

The project is planned across a substantial 4,742 sqm amalgamated site spanning seven lots at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/2-6-pacific-parade-bilinga-qld-4225">2-6 Pacific Parade</a> and 27-33 Golden Four Drive in Bilin​ga, directly opposite Nor​th Kirra Beach.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mayd-group">MAYD</a> secured the site for $32.5 million in 2025, in what was one of the Gold Coast's largest property transactions of the year.

The development will be delivered across two stages, with the first stage carrying an estimated gross realisation value of around $360 million.

The latest amendments seek to reduce the overall apartment count and shift the project further toward the owner-occupier market, with larger residences designed for buyers wanting considerably more space than traditionally offered in a beachfront apartment.

The residential mix will include townhomes, oversized two-bedroom apartments, substantial three-bedroom residences and four-bedroom homes.

MAYD has appointed Cera Stribley to lead the architecture and interiors, with the Melbourne-based design practice drawing on the beachfront setting through a series of ocean-facing terraces and heavily landscaped balconies.

Strong horizontal forms and curved balconies will define the exterior, with subtropical landscaping integrated throughout the building to soften the built form and increase the connection between the residences and the beachfront.

The project will also include an extensive collection of resident wellness and lifestyle facilities, continuing the broader shift across the Gold Coast's luxury apartment market toward larger homes supported by resort-style amenity.

<img alt="MAYD" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d1bcbb05-e659-4b47-8bd4-1e595315e2ad" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-27%20at%202.05.03%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=jj0XEud1X1DuLt7_KyElhjMdZGOXmLHP" />

MAYD Founder Todd Mould said North Kirra was increasingly appealing to buyers attracted to the more established, lower-density character of the southern Gold Coast.

"North Kirra presents one of the most compelling luxury residential opportunities currently emerging in Australia, combining absolute beachfront with the character and authenticity that buyers are increasingly seeking, and the same sense of tight-knit community that defined Burleigh and Currumbin perhaps 10 or 15 years ago," Mould said.

"With Gold Coast Airport on its doorstep, it also offers a level of accessibility that broadens its appeal across almost every market demographic."

The project comes as the southern Gold Coast continues to attract an increasing share of high-end apartment development and buyer activity.

Kirra in particular has emerged as one of the region's more tightly held beachfront markets, with its relatively low-density character, established surf and hospitality scene and proximity to Gold Coast Airport differentiating it from the higher-density markets further north.

Mould said those characteristics had informed the approach MAYD and Cera Stribley had taken to the project.

"We've worked closely with Cera Stribley to create a vision that is deeply connected to its surroundings," he said.

"Inspired by the coastline itself, the architecture has been shaped around space, privacy and resort-style living, creating a collection of homes that reflects the next generation of luxury on the southern Gold Coast."

MOTIV Managing Director Carly Cottam, who has been appointed to market the project, said buyer attention had continued to move south along the Gold Coast.

"Purchasers who may once have defaulted to Broadbeach, Main Beach or Surfers Paradise are increasingly recognising the value of a genuine beachfront location that offers lower density, strong amenity and a more established sense of community," Cottam said.

"Kirra has a powerful combination of growing demand and genuine scarcity. Beachfront supply is inherently constrained, the area remains relatively low density, and buyers are increasingly placing a premium on locations that feel established, uncrowded and authentic rather than heavily developed."

Cottam said the proximity to Gold Coast Airport was also proving increasingly important for interstate and second-home buyers.

"Being minutes from Gold Coast Airport makes it particularly compelling for interstate buyers, frequent travellers and second-home purchasers who can access an authentic coastal lifestyle almost immediately after stepping off a flight."

The acquisition takes MAYD's active development portfolio to more than $500 million, with the North Kirra project representing one of its largest undertakings to date.

MAYD is targeting an early 2027 launch.

First look at MAYD's North Kirra mixed-use precinct

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Castle Hill, the longtime hub of the Hills District, has been one of the major beneficiaries of Sydney's Metro expansion, with improved connectivity helping drive continued population growth, development and buyer demand across the Hills District.

But despite that growth, the suburb has seen relatively few major new apartment projects brought to market over the past 18 months.

Hills District developer Reve Group is looking to fill that gap with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/nova-r-ve-castle-hill-2-garthowen-crescent-castle-hill-nsw-2154">Nova Rêve</a>, a major new mixed-use precinct on the corner of Garthowen Crescent and Old Castle Hill Road, a short walk from Castle Hill Metro Station and Castle Towers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377679]

The project will comprise three residential towers alongside a hotel, restaurants, cafes and a skybar, more than 1,600 sqm of ground-floor retail and almost an acre of landscaped gardens.

It represents the largest project undertaken by Reve Group, the development arm of the Kassis family, which has been building across the Hills District for more than 30 years through Kassis Homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377675]

Nova Rêve also represents a significant step up from the family's first apartment development, Grand Rêve, which was delivered nearby on Garthowen Crescent.

Grand Rêve introduced larger, house-like apartment layouts and premium inclusions including Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances to the Castle Hill market.

Nova Rêve takes that approach to a precinct scale, combining the residential component with hospitality, retail and substantial public and resident landscaping.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377685]

Reve Group Managing Director Sam Kassis said the project reflected the family's three decades of building in the Hills, which has evolved from trophy homes on quarter-acre blocks to larger-scale apartment development.

"Grand Rêve was our first apartment project here and it showed us what this pocket of Castle Hill could be. Nova Rêve is the refinement of that idea: not just apartments, but a place the whole suburb can use," Kassis said.

A key part of that approach is the hotel, which has been designed to operate as an amenity for the wider Castle Hill community rather than solely hotel guests.

It will include restaurants, cafes, skybars and all-day dining, alongside conference and event facilities catering to business functions, community groups and private events.

At ground level, more than 1,600 sqm of shops and cafes will open onto the surrounding streets and landscaped areas.

Almost an acre of gardens designed by Land and Form Studios will run through the precinct, incorporating pathways, seating, barbecue areas and children's play spaces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377680]

Reve Group's Romio Georges said creating an active ground plane had been central to the planning of Nova Rêve.

"There are gardens with pathways, barbecues, seating and play areas, shops and cafes opening onto the street, and a hotel with restaurants and a skybar that anyone in Castle Hill can walk into," Georges said.

The project's elevated position on one of Sydney's highest ridgelines will also provide apartments with outlooks toward the Sydney skyline, surrounding parkland and the Blue Mountains.

More than 80 per cent of the apartments will occupy corner positions, with Turner responsible for both the architecture and interiors.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152737]

<h3 data-end="3697" data-section-id="q3n5ak" data-start="3672">&nbsp;</h3>
</main>

Nova Rêve arrives as Reve Group bets on Castle Hill's next growth phase

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>

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Ellen Walker

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

For most Australians, buying an apartment is one of the biggest financial decisions they'll ever make

The location, floorplan and price are often the first considerations, but in recent years another question has become increasingly important: who is actually delivering the project?

A series of high-profile builder collapses, construction delays and defect concerns have fundamentally changed how many Victorians approach buying off the plan. The collapse of Porter Davis in 2023, which reportedly left around 1,700 homes unfinished, became one of the most visible examples of the risks that can emerge when a construction company fails. <a href="https://www.equifax.com.au/sites/default/files/lpassets/pdf/Final-Business-Market-Pulse-June-Sector-Deep-Dive-Report-2.pdf">Similar challenges across the broader construction sector</a> have left buyers asking more questions before signing a contract.

As Victoria continues encouraging higher-density housing to address supply shortages, transparency is becoming just as important as location or price.

One tool increasingly entering the conversation is the <a href="https://icirt.com/">Independent Construction Industry Rating Tool (iCIRT)</a>, an independent assessment framework designed to help buyers better understand the developer or builder behind a project. Originally developed by Equifax in consultation with government and industry as part of NSW's Construct NSW reforms, the system has since expanded nationally.

<h2 data-end="1519" data-section-id="7nmx3" data-start="1492">What is an iCIRT rating?</h2>

Most Australians are familiar with independent ratings in everyday life.

We compare ANCAP safety ratings before buying a car. We look at Health Star Ratings in supermarkets. Banks rely on credit assessments when lending money.

Until recently, however, there has been very little independent information available to help apartment buyers assess the business responsible for delivering a residential project.

That gap is what iCIRT was designed to address.

Builders, developers and other construction professionals with an iCIRT rating have demonstrated high-trust characteristics through an independent, evidence-based assessment across six criteria: Character, Capability, Conduct, Capacity, Capital and Counterparties. This involves a rigorous review of financial health, past project track record, and ethical conduct. Crucially, an iCIRT rating could help provide property buyers with confidence that they are working with a professional who has demonstrated the capability, capacity, and willingness to return and rectify issues.

<img alt="iCIRT" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="dcbb59af-3d5a-43aa-b28e-a66e55a83568" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Announcement.png?VersionId=6OD8r.v.oucEF01BWxR85urzoD9seQ9e" />

Importantly, iCIRT is not a recommendation to purchase a particular property, nor is it a traditional credit rating. It is an independent assessment framework designed to provide objective information about a construction business using a <a href="https://icirt.com/sites/default/files/2025-08/iCIRT-Methodology-Issue1-May-2021.pdf">published methodology</a>.

The system has been widely adopted in New South Wales, where more than one-third of medium and large residential builders and developers now hold an iCIRT rating, representing over two-thirds of the state's residential building market by value as of 2025/26.

<h2 data-end="3126" data-section-id="h6ohtj" data-start="3084">Why buyers are doing more due diligence</h2>

For many buyers, particularly those purchasing off the plan, the biggest risk isn't whether they'll like the kitchen finishes.

It's whether the project will be delivered on time, to the expected quality, and by a company capable of completing the development.

<a href="https://icirt.com/sites/default/files/2026-07/iCIRT%202025%20Consumer%20Survey%20Report%20v05.pdf">Consumer research commissioned by iCIRT</a> found more than half of respondents believed current protections do not adequately safeguard buyers from builder insolvencies or defective projects. Other research found 88 per cent of prospective buyers would seek independent ratings or due diligence before purchasing, while 90 per cent said trust in construction professionals is essential.

That doesn't mean buyers should rely on a single rating alone.

Independent legal advice, understanding the contract, and seeking financial advice all remain important parts of the due diligence process.

However, an independent assessment can provide another source of information alongside those traditional checks.

<h2 data-end="4138" data-section-id="pquzxc" data-start="4094">Trust is becoming a competitive advantage</h2>

The conversation isn't only changing for buyers.

Developers are also recognising that trust has become an increasingly important part of the sales process.

<img alt="mirvac" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1c11c691-e8cd-46c3-88fd-6c8d614e8357" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/mirvac.png?VersionId=ZqDqNL36WJOOCmNMmmO93Q2GTrFOBomz" />Mirvac is a 5 Gold Star iCIRT rated developer, the highest possible rating a developer can get: Harbourside by Mirvac

Five years ago, purchasers typically asked about floorplans, finishes and settlement dates.

Today, sales teams are increasingly being asked about the developer's experience, financial stability, previous projects and construction partners.

For companies with strong governance and established delivery records, an independent iCIRT rating provides another way to demonstrate those credentials before buyers even visit a display suite.

According to Equifax, the assessment can also help businesses drive sales and <a href="https://icirt.com/resources-for-business/icirt-rating-helps-scion-secure-high-value-projects">secure high-value projects</a>, as well as identify operational improvements and <a href="https://icirt.com/resources-for-business/mirvac-reinforces-brand-trust-and-quality-independent-icirt-rating">attract top talent</a>.

<h2 data-end="4962" data-section-id="1j54ng5" data-start="4912">Beyond buyers: lenders are paying attention too</h2>

The influence of independent construction ratings is also extending beyond consumers.

According to Stamford Capital's Real Estate Debt Capital Markets Survey, an increasing number of lenders now incorporate iCIRT ratings into their due diligence processes when assessing residential development finance applications.

The survey found lender adoption has continued to rise, with many respondents saying independent assessments provide additional insight into governance, counterparties and delivery capability beyond traditional financial analysis. Some lenders also reported declining funding applications where businesses had poor or no ratings.

As construction costs remain elevated and access to development finance becomes more selective, demonstrating credibility is becoming increasingly valuable.

<h2 data-end="5801" data-section-id="1qazuxs" data-start="5772">What it means for Victoria</h2>

Victoria's apartment market is entering a new phase.

The state is seeking to accelerate higher-density housing while simultaneously introducing reforms aimed at improving confidence in residential construction.

For buyers, that means there are more tools available than ever before to research the businesses behind a project.

For developers, it signals that transparency is becoming another point of differentiation in an increasingly competitive market.

Buyers are asking more questions than ever before and increasingly expecting independent information, not just marketing material, before making one of the biggest financial commitments of their lives.

<img alt="iCIRT" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="958e1497-8151-4689-aadc-baf59f6e6122" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/iCIRT-Infographic-Assessment-Process-Final.png?VersionId=7KyVcwSo4vCLXBYBdq382e3Si.R.9PWQ" />

<hr data-end="6469" data-start="6466" />
The information contained in this article is general in nature and does not constitute personal, financial, legal or tax advice. It does not take into account your personal objectives, financial situation or needs. Therefore, you should consider whether the information is appropriate to your circumstances before acting on it and, where appropriate, seek independent professional advice.

This article contains links to third-party websites. These links are provided for convenience only. Equifax Australia does not control and is not responsible for the content, accuracy or privacy practices of external sites.

Copyright © 2026 Equifax Australia Information Services and Solutions Pty Ltd. All rights reserved.

Buying off-the-plan in Melbourne? How independent iCIRT ratings are set to change Victorian property

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EXPERT OBSERVER
Across the combined capital cities, there is currently 5.3 months of housing supply available for sale.
If no more properties were advertised for sale it would take 5.3 months for current advertised supply to be purchased.
For this time of year, this is the highest months of supply figure any time since 2012.
To put the figure into context, at the same time last year there was a much lower 3.9 months of supply.
The lift in months of supply is a function of a lift in the amount of stock available for sale and the ongoing fall in transaction volumes.
The months of supply metric measures the volume of stock advertised for sale against the run rate of settled sales.
The result, expressed in months, provides an indication about how long it would take the market to absorb all the residential properties that are advertised for sale.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/5/16/MoS%201.JPG" alt="">
Currently, there is 4.1 months of housing stock available for sale in Sydney.
Although this still may seem like quite a low supply of stock for sale, in comparison to the previous seven years, the months of supply figure is now the highest it has been at this time of year any time over that period.
Months of supply is elevated due to much lower transaction volumes and an elevated volume of stock for sale.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/5/16/MoS%202.JPG" alt="">
In Melbourne there is currently 5.9 months of housing supply for sale.
Although that figure has reduced slightly over recent weeks, it is still currently higher than over the same period during any of the previous seven years.
Much like Sydney, a much slower rate of sale and much higher stock for sale has led to the heightened supply.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/5/16/MoS%203.JPG" alt="">
There is currently 5.9 months of housing supply for sale in Brisbane, which is the highest for this time of year since 2012.
The elevated volume of stock for sale coupled with falling transaction volumes are the factors driving the heightened supply.
Although stock is elevated relative to recent years it has been fairly steady at 5.9 months over recent weeks
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/5/16/MoS%204.JPG" alt="">
Months of supply in Adelaide is trending higher, transaction volumes are steady if not slightly higher than a year ago however, the volumes of stock for sale is much higher.
There is currently 3.8 months of supply on the market and although that figure is lower than most other capital cities it is slightly higher than at the same time last year (3.7 months).
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/5/16/MoS%205.JPG" alt="">
The ongoing weak housing conditions in Perth whereby values and transaction volumes continue to fall and stock for sale mounts has led to further increases in months of supply.
At 7.7 months of supply, supply is the highest it has been at this time of year, any year since 2012.
7.7 months of supply is also one of the highest amongst all capital cities.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/5/16/MoS%206.JPG" alt="">
A major contributor to the surge in dwelling values in Hobart over recent years has been the lack of stock for sale.
More recently, the volume of stock for sale has risen however, it remains quite low reflected by the fact there is just 2.8 months of supply on the market currently.
Although that figure is low, it is higher than at the same time last year (2.0 months) and 2017 (2.7 months) but it remains much lower than previous years.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/5/16/MoS%207.JPG" alt="">
The months of supply for sale in Darwin is higher than any other capital city at 9.0 months.
Darwin has a high supply of stock for sale and low rate of sale resulting in the high months of supply.
Despite the high figure, it is actually lower than it was at the same time of year for each of the past three years.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/5/16/MoS%208.JPG" alt=""> 
Canberra currently has 3.6 months of housing supply advertised for sale.
Although that is a comparatively low figure, months of supply in Canberra hasn’t been as high as it is currently since 2013.
Like most other capital cities, months of supply is elevated due to a heightened volume of stock for sale with sales actually higher than they were 12 months ago.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/5/16/MoS%209.JPG" alt="">
The months of supply figure highlights why the housing market is generally falling.
Credit conditions are tight which means fewer buyers and generally leads to a slower rate of sales.
Although vendors have responded by bringing fewer new properties to the market, total stock for sale remains elevated leading to a heightened months of supply figure.
CAMERON KUSHER is the head of research for the Australian branch of CoreLogic
Kusher regularly posts on the <a href="https://www.corelogic.com.au/taxonomy/corelogic-people/cameron-kusher" target="_blank">CoreLogic website</a>.
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ckusher-ujnxiKuFQs

Australian housing supply reaches seven year high: Cameron Kusher

<html><body>
The Melbourne suburb of Brighton is host to the highest volume of auctions this weekend, with eight homes set to go under the hammer, according to CoreLogic.
Tied with Brighton are Bentleigh East and Malvern East, also in Melbourne, with an equal number of auctions scheduled, 8 each.
Overall numbers are down given the clash with the Federal election.
This week, the number of auctions scheduled to take place across the combined capital cities is expected to fall, with 868 currently being tracked by CoreLogic, down from the 1,218 auctions held last week at final results.
Over the same week, last year a much higher 2,100 auctions took place across the capital cities.
Both Melbourne and Sydney are expected to see a decrease in activity this week, with 398 homes scheduled for auction across Melbourne, while Sydney is set to host 259 auctions, decreasing on the 546 and 445 auctions held last week respectively.
The smaller auction markets will also see a lower volume of homes auctioned week on week with the exception of Perth where more auctions are scheduled and Tasmania where there is no change.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/5/16/Upcoming%20auctions%20May%2018.JPG" alt="">
The busy auction weekend in Brighton sees <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-brighton-131021202" target="_blank">34 Rusden Street</a> (pictured in title) offered.
The property going under the hammer is a three bedroom two bathroom house.
It comes with an indicative price guide of $1,650,000 - $1,750,000.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/5/16/Brighton%20Upcoming%20Auction%202.JPG" alt="">
Another example of the breadth of auctions taking place in Brighton is <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-townhouse-vic-brighton-131009934" target="_blank">1/31 New Street</a> (pictured above).
The property going under the hammer is a three bedroom one bathroom townhouse.
It comes with an indicative price guide of $900,000 - $990,000.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/5/16/Brighton%20Upcoming%20Auction%203.JPG" alt="">
A third property going to auction in Brighton this week is <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-brighton-131041874" target="_blank">145 Male Street</a> (pictured above).
The property going under the hammer is a three bedroom two bathroom house. 
It comes with an indicative price guide of $2,475,000 - $2,700,000.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Brighton tied as busiest election weekend auction hotspot

<html><body>
There were 2300 first home buyers (FHBs) in March across NSW.
The average NSW FHB spends about $465,000 on their purchase, based on the commonly expected 20% deposit and ABS data showing a typical $387,000 NSW mortgage.
There is a lower $359,000 average mortgage in Victoria and $300,000 in Queensland.
The typical Australian first home buyer $342,000 mortgage is around 25% lower than the $462,000 non-first time owner occupier buyer's mortgage.
The ABS data also highlights the price gap between capital cities and the regions.
Sydney established detached house prices sit at around a $900,000 median, with houses in the rest of the state coming in at $466,000.
It is $700,000 for Sydney attached dwellings (terraces, semi and units) with the rest of NSW having a $405,000 median attached dwelling purchase price.
The gap is narrow in Queensland with established detached houses costing $530,000 in Brisbane against $430,000 in the rest of Queensland.
In Victoria, established Melbourne homes cost $705,000 slightly more than double the $350,000 in the rest of the state.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison's proposed deposit guarantee scheme will seek to pioneer a differential recognition of prices across the nation in deciding what priced homes will qualify.
It will have an as yet to be determined different cap on home purchases eligible for the scheme which will underwrite the topping up of buyers with just a 5% deposit who find lenders prepared to lend to them.
The current grants fully fund purchases up to $650,000, petering out on an $800,000 purchase.
The new scheme is likely to attract buyers to think about hiding to the regions and also into apartments in the city.
Urban Taskforce CEO Chris Johnson noted the average apartment in Sydney is likely going to be $400,000 cheaper than the average house.
"So many younger people, including families will see the benefits of a new type of living where they share large gardens, share swimming pools that they don’t have to maintain and often have child care centres next door.”
During March, first home buyers enjoyed the largest share in the Northern Territory, with 42% of owner occupier housing loans.
This was followed by Western Australia (36%), Victoria (30%) and Queensland (27%). 
FHB participation was lowest in Tasmania (20%), followed by South Australia (21%), the ACT (22%) and New South Wales (24%).
With more than 500 first home buyers over the past year, the 2170 Liverpool postcode retains its status as NSW's biggest beneficiary of government grants.
Over 11,000 Liverpool buyers have secured grants to get themselves onto the property ladder since the FHOG's commencement in 2000, introduced in the wake of the goods and services tax.
The outer ring south western buyers have secured $11.7 million in grants and concessions over the past year, and $213 million in the past 19 years.
The median Liverpool house price currently sits at $740,000, with its median unit price $440,000.
Westmead and Campbelltown follow as next busiest FHB hotspots.
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How will the price difference between capital cities and regions impact the new FHB policy?

<html><body>
The mortgagee in possession of a home in Paralowie, in the north of Adelaide, has secured $209,000.
The 1990s built home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-sa-paralowie-130551434" target="_blank">42 Magdalena Crescent</a> last traded for $177,500.
It sold for its asking price after 51 days on the market.
Set on 570 sqm, it has two bedrooms, one bathroom and an open plan family and dining area.
The dining space opens to a rear verandah and the yard on 570 sqm.
Paralowie has a <a href="/developments/paralowie-sa-5108">median house price</a> of $302,000, according to CoreLogic.
</body></html>

Paralowie mortgagee secures $209,000

<html><body>
Discounting is measured by comparing the original list price of a property to its ultimate selling price. At CoreLogic, auction sales are excluded from the calculation of the discounting measure. 
<img src="https://www.corelogic.com.au/sites/default/files/inline-images/Dwellings%20selling%20below%20list%20price%20-%20National.PNG">
Nationally, over the three months to April 2019, 75.6% of properties sold for less than their original list price. Typically the majority of dwellings sold sell for less than their original list price. The 75.6% of properties selling at a discount was above the decade average of 69.3% of properties. 
<img src="https://www.corelogic.com.au/sites/default/files/inline-images/Dwellings%20selling%20below%20list%20price%20-%20Capital%20Cities.PNG" alt="Dwellings selling below list price - Capital Cities.PNG">
It is a little bit of a different story across the combined capital cities. Although the combined capital cities are recording larger declines than the national index, a lower 72.9% of properties sold over the past three months did so for less than the original list price. While this is a much higher share than the decade average (62.3%) it is interesting to note that despite the weak conditions there are still more than a quarter of properties selling for more than the original list price. 
<img src="https://www.corelogic.com.au/sites/default/files/inline-images/Dwellings%20selling%20below%20list%20price%20-%20Sydney.PNG" alt="Dwellings selling below list price - Sydney.PNG">
Across Sydney, 78.1% of all property sales were at a price below the original list price over the past three months. During the boom in Sydney housing (2013-15) a majority of properties were actually selling for more than their list price. That phenomenon has changed substantially since dwelling values began to fall over recent years. The decade average shows that 59.4% of properties sold at a discount to the original list price. 
<img src="https://www.corelogic.com.au/sites/default/files/inline-images/Dwellings%20selling%20below%20list%20price%20-%20Melbourne.PNG" alt="Dwellings selling below list price - Melbourne.PNG">
Over the past decade, an average of 49.2% of Melbourne properties have sold at a discount to the original list price. This highlights the strength of the Melbourne housing market over recent years with sales at a discount much less prevalent than elsewhere. The recent weakness in the Melbourne market has seen this trend shift with 76.3% of sales over the past three months at a discount to the original list price. 
<img src="https://www.corelogic.com.au/sites/default/files/inline-images/Dwellings%20selling%20below%20list%20price%20-%20Brisbane.PNG" alt="Dwellings selling below list price - Brisbane.PNG">
Over the 14 year period, Brisbane has never seen a greater share of properties selling above than below the original list price. Over the past decade, an average of 71.4% of properties sold at a discount from the original list price compared to 67.2% over the past three months. 
<img src="https://www.corelogic.com.au/sites/default/files/inline-images/Dwellings%20selling%20below%20list%20price%20-%20Adelaide.PNG" alt="Dwellings selling below list price - Adelaide.PNG">
For most of the past 14 years a majority of Adelaide properties have sold at a discount however, in 2007 when dwelling values were booming the share of properties selling at a discount was as low as 29.9%. Currently, 75.4% of properties are selling at a discount which is above the long-term average which is recorded at 68.2%. 
<img src="https://www.corelogic.com.au/sites/default/files/inline-images/Dwellings%20selling%20below%20list%20price%20-%20Perth.PNG" alt="Dwellings selling below list price - Perth.PNG">
The ongoing weak housing market conditions in Perth has seen an average of 73.6% of properties sold over the past decade selling at a discount. You have to go all the way to 2006-07 when Perth’s housing market was booming to see a majority of properties not selling at a discount. Over the past three months, 74.1% of properties sold at a discount. 
<img src="https://www.corelogic.com.au/sites/default/files/inline-images/Dwellings%20selling%20below%20list%20price%20-%20Hobart.PNG" alt="Dwellings selling below list price - Hobart.PNG">
The recent strength of the Hobart housing market has seen a significant reduction in the share of properties selling at a discount however, over recent months the share has started to rise again. Over the past three months, 32.5% of properties sold at a discount, compared to the decade average of 55.2%.
<img src="https://www.corelogic.com.au/sites/default/files/inline-images/Dwellings%20selling%20below%20list%20price%20-%20Darwin.PNG" alt="Dwellings selling below list price - Darwin.PNG">
The ongoing weak housing market conditions in Darwin has seen a large share of properties selling for less than their original list price. On average over the past decade, 84.9% of properties sold at a discount with the figure slightly higher over the past three months at 85.4%. 
<img src="https://www.corelogic.com.au/sites/default/files/inline-images/Dwellings%20selling%20below%20list%20price%20-%20Canberra.PNG" alt="Dwellings selling below list price - Canberra.PNG">
Over the past decade an average of 54.1% of properties sold transacted at a price below the original list price. Although the share of sales at a discount has increased in Canberra over recent months, a majority (45.8%) sold for less than the original list price. 
As dwelling value growth accelerates, vendors can find it difficult to price properties, in-turn strong housing conditions typically result in fewer sales at a discount. With the national housing market continuing to see value declines it is expected that over the coming period relatively few properties will be selling at a price above the original list price. 
CAMERON KUSHER is the head of research for the Australian branch of CoreLogic.
</body></html>

How much discounting is taking place? CoreLogic's Cameron Kusher 

<html><body>
Data released by SQM Research has revealed the national residential rental vacancy rates surged in April 2019 to 2.3%, an increase from 2.1% in March.
The total number of vacancies Australia-wide is now at 77,664 properties for rent, a rise of just under 10,000 dwellings over the past 12 months. 
Darwin’s vacancy rate of 3.6% in April, was the only capital city to experience a decrease in vacancy rates of 0.1%, but it continues to rank the highest of all capital cities since it overtook Perth in September 2018.  
Sydney rental vacancy rates jumped to 3.4%, an increase from 3.1% in March. This represents a new record high for Sydney, based on SQM’s rental index which goes back to 2005.  
Hobart’s vacancy rate increased to 0.6% in April and continues to record the lowest vacancy rate in the country since September 2014.
<table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" width="12%">
City
</td>
<td valign="bottom" width="14%">
Apr-2018 Vacancies
</td>
<td valign="bottom" width="14%">
Apr-2018 Vacancy Rate
</td>
<td valign="bottom" width="14%">
Mar-2019 Vacancies
</td>
<td valign="bottom" width="14%">
Mar-2019 Vacancy Rate
</td>
<td valign="bottom" width="14%">
Apr-2019 Vacancies
</td>
<td valign="bottom" width="14%">
Apr-2019 Vacancy Rate
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="12%">
Sydney
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="14%">
15,809
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="14%">
2.3%
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="14%">
21,942 
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="14%">
3.1%
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="14%">
23,837
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="14%">
3.4%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="12%">
Melbourne
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="14%">
7,317
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="14%">
1.3%
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="14%">
9,210 
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="14%">
1.6%
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="14%">
10,565
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="14%">
1.8%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="12%">
Brisbane
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="14%">
9,774
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="14%">
3.0%
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="14%">
8,232 
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="14%">
2.5%
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="14%">
8,792
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="14%">
2.6%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="12%">
Perth
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="14%">
8,245
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="14%">
4.1%
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="14%">
6,085 
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="14%">
2.9%
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="14%">
6,568
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="14%">
3.2%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="12%">
Adelaide
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="14%">
2,427
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="14%">
1.3%
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="14%">
2,024 
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="14%">
1.1%
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="14%">
2,249
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="14%">
1.2%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="12%">
Canberra
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="14%">
474
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="14%">
0.8%
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="14%">
575 
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="14%">
0.9%
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="14%">
811
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="14%">
1.2%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="12%">
Darwin
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="14%">
1,011
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="14%">
3.3%
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="14%">
1,153 
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="14%">
3.7%
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="14%">
1,117
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="14%">
3.6%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="12%">
Hobart
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="14%">
219
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="14%">
0.7%
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="14%">
131 
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="14%">
0.4%
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="14%">
185
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="14%">
0.6%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="12%">
National
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="14%">
67,854
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="14%">
2.1%
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="14%">
70,877 
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="14%">
2.1%
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="14%">
77,664
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="14%">
2.3%
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
SQM’s calculations of vacancies are based on online rental listings that have been advertised for three weeks or more compared to the total number of established rental properties.
SQM considers this to be a superior methodology compared to using a potentially incomplete sample of agency surveys or merely relying on raw online listings advertised.
Managing Director of SQM Research, Louis Christopher said: “Tenancy demand has been weak over the course of March and April. That combined with the expectation that dwelling completions are at their peak, prompted the rise in rental vacancies, which happened largely across the country, last month. 
“Going forward we expect rental vacancy rates will further rise in Sydney and Melbourne for most of 2019, before peaking and falling in 2020 as completions are forecasted to fall.”
Asking Rents 
Capital city asking rents increased 0.2% for units, but declined 0.4% for houses for the week ending 12 May to record asking rents of $554 per week for houses and $442 per week for units.
In comparison, over the 12 months, asking rents for units declined by 0.7% and rents for houses remained steady.  
Sydney’s asking rent for units and houses have both marginally declined by 0.3% for units and 1.5% for houses to 12 May. Over 12 months, the decline has been 5.0% for house rents and 3.8% for units. 
Perth’s rental market continued to increase over this period for both houses and units, at 0.5% and 0.2% respectively, as did Brisbane, with a 0.4% increase for houses and 0.6% for units. 
Darwin experienced a marginal increase of 1.4% over the month in house rents, after a decrease of 8.0% over the 12 months. However, units continue to slide at 1.7% over the month and 7.9% over the 12 months.
<table border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td colspan="6" valign="top" width="409">
SQM Research Weekly Rents Index
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="2" width="132">
Week ending: 12 May 2019
</td>
<td width="59">
Rent $
</td>
<td width="70">
Change on previous week
</td>
<td width="85">
Rolling month % change
</td>
<td width="62">
12 month % change
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td rowspan="2" valign="top">
Sydney
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="56">
All Houses
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="59">
690.0
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="70">
1.0  
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="85">
-1.5%  
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="62">
-5.0%  
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="56">
All Units
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="59">
505.2
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="70">
-0.2  
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="85">
-0.3%  
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="62">
-3.8%  
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td rowspan="2" valign="top">
Melbourne
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="56">
All Houses
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="59">
542.4
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="70">
-1.4  
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="85">
-0.2%  
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="62">
1.7%  
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="56">
All Units
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="59">
422.5
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="70">
1.5  
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="85">
0.0%  
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="62">
3.1%  
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td rowspan="2" valign="top">
Brisbane
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="56">
All Houses
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="59">
458.5
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="70">
0.5  
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="85">
0.4%  
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="62">
2.7%  
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="56">
All Units
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="59">
373.2
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="70">
0.8  
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="85">
0.6%  
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="62">
1.5%  
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td rowspan="2" valign="top">
Perth
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="56">
All Houses
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="59">
447.0
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="70">
0.0  
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="85">
0.5%  
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="62">
6.1%  
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="56">
All Units
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="59">
337.2
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="70">
0.8  
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="85">
0.2%  
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="62">
4.0%  
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td rowspan="2" valign="top">
Adelaide
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="56">
All Houses
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="59">
391.6
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="70">
-0.6  
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="85">
-0.2%  
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="62">
2.5%  
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="56">
All Units
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="59">
302.9
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="70">
0.1  
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="85">
0.5%  
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="62">
1.0%  
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td rowspan="2" valign="top">
Canberra
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="56">
All Houses
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="59">
624.3
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="70">
-6.3  
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="85">
-1.7%  
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="62">
0.9%  
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="56">
All Units
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="59">
455.9
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="70">
-0.9  
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="85">
0.0%  
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="62">
3.2%  
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td rowspan="2" valign="top">
Darwin
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="56">
All Houses
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="59">
497.7
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="70">
-1.7  
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="85">
1.4%  
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="62">
-8.0%  
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="56">
All Units
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="59">
370.6
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="70">
-3.6  
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="85">
-1.7%  
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="62">
-7.9%  
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td rowspan="2" valign="top">
Hobart
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="56">
All Houses
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="59">
426.8
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="70">
2.2  
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="85">
-0.3%  
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="62">
7.4%  
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="56">
All Units
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="59">
374.8
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="70">
12.2  
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="85">
2.3%  
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="62">
4.0%  
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td rowspan="2" valign="top">
National
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="56">
All Houses
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="59">
443.0
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="70">
2.0  
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="85">
0.5%  
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="62">
1.4%  
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="56">
All Units
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="59">
363.0
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="70">
-4.0  
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="85">
-0.5%  
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="62">
0.8%  
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td rowspan="2" valign="top">
Cap City Average
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="56">
All Houses
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="59">
554.0
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="70">
1.0  
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="85">
-0.4%  
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="62">
 0.0%   
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="56">
All Units
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="59">
442.0
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="70">
2.0  
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="85">
0.2%  
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="62">
-0.7%  
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
Source: <a href="http://www.sqmresearch.com.au/" target="_blank">www.sqmresearch.com.au</a>
You can visit SQM's <a href="http://www.sqmresearch.com.au/graph_vacancy.php?region=nsw::Sydney&amp;type=c&amp;t=1#terms" target="_blank">methodology page</a> for more information on how its vacancies are compiled.
</body></html>

Sydney vacancy rate jumps to 3.4% in April: SQM Research 

<html><body>
The first home buyers' deposit guarantee innovation, unveiled by Prime Minister Scott Morrison, is perfectly pitched at the impatient first home buyer generation.
It will turbo-charge their entry into the property market with a government scheme partnering with private lenders offering finance for approved buyers.
The First Home Loan Deposit Scheme will be available, from next January if either the Coalition or Labor wins the federal election, for new home buyers who have got a 5% deposit, which is the easy bit.
They will get government backing to make up the 20% house deposit typically required by lenders.
The scheme is based on the valid belief it is the deposit gap rather than the size of mortgage payments that is the real barrier to home ownership.
The government backed National Housing Finance and Investment Corporation will guarantee the difference between the lower deposit and the 20%.
The scheme will also help first home buyers save around $10,000 by not having to pay lenders mortgage insurance.
The scheme, adopted from a 2015 New Zealand scheme, would allow singles earning less than $125,000 a year and couples earning less than $200,000 a year to get into the housing market in quick time.
Past schemes, including the first home super saver (FHSS) scheme, have simply been too slow in achieving outcomes. 
The $500 million scheme is set to be initially capped at 10,000 loans annually, about one tenth of the market. 
Some 110,000 bought their first home in 2018, which was the highest level in nine years.
But the latest NSW figures for March show the lowest number in two years.
The value of homes that can be purchased under the scheme will be capped on a regional basis, reflecting different markets across Australia.
Although it has fallen in recent months, an entry-level Sydney apartment costing $560,000 takes around five years and four months savings for a 20% deposit, some 16 months longer than in Melbourne and two years longer than the equivalent in Brisbane.
"With the banks pulling back and larger deposits of 20% now being standard, it is not getting easier," Morrison said.
"The lenders would still be the ones lending the money. They would still do all the normal checks on the borrowers to make sure that they can meet their repayments – this isn’t free money."
There will be a small risk for the government having first time borrowers with higher indebtedness especially if the market continues to fall.
No official figures are kept on first home buyer arrears or distressed sales, but the even more cautious big four banks maintain overall arrears levels across NSW remain very low given the low interest rate landscape.
The government support would stay in place for the life of the loan, until its sale or until the value of the property rises to a point where they choose to refinance.
The First Home Loan Deposit Scheme will start on 1 January next year, the same date that Labor has said it would start its grandfathered negative gearing scheme to assist affordability.
The proposed Coalition policy won't impress those who don't support market intervention by government, but there has been some $10.3 billion in benefits since 2000 when the First Home Owners Grant scheme was introduced to help first-home owners to offset the effect of Goods and Services Tax.
This article first appeared in The Daily Telegraph. 
</body></html>

jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

First home buyers to get support to reach a 20% house deposit

<html><body>
The long-time Darlinghurst home of the late Sydney Mardi Gras costume designer Ron Muncaster sold ahead of its scheduled weekend auction.
The <a class="x_OWAAutoLink" href="https://oxfordagency.com.au/residential_post/169-crown-street-darlinghurst-nsw-2010/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-auth="NotApplicable">Crown Street terrace</a> (above and below), listed 18 months after his death, sold at around its price guide of $2.5 million though Matt Marano of Oxford Real Estate Agency. 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/5/13/Ron2.jpg" alt="">
Muncaster, who was featured in the 2004 documentary Queen Sequina, paid $110,000 for the 1860s terrace, in 1985, shortly after he started created costumes for the parade participants.
A number of its original features have been retained in the Crown Street offering, including its raw brick and sandstone walls, fireplaces, and exposed original beams.
The four bedroom terrace sits behind a sandstock brick facade on its 180 sqm parcel. 
<div class="x_page" title="Page 1">
<div class="x_section">
<div class="x_layoutArea">
<div class="x_column">
There were 1,210 homes taken to auction across the combined capital cities this week, returning a preliminary auction clearance rate of 58.1 per cent. 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/5/13/CL-May13.jpg" alt="">
Last week, a higher 1,479 auctions were held with the final clearance rate rising to 52.5 per cent; the second highest clearance rate seen over the year-to-date. 
CoreLogic auction analyst Kevin Brogan noted compared to last year, volumes continue to trend lower each week, with almost double the volume of homes taken to auction over the same week in 2018 (2,279) when 58.2 per cent sold.
"Although the clearance rate will adjust lower on the full set of results, the trend over the past two months has seen final auction clearance rates holding around the low-to-mid 50 per cent range and we expect a similar finalised result this week."
Brogan noted the success rate was holding around 10 percentage points higher than late last year, "reflecting a better fit between buyer and seller expectations on prices."
The cheapest sale across the capital cities was $216,500 in Melbourne when <a id="LPlnk30383" class="x_OWAAutoLink" href="https://www.hockingstuart.com.au/property/7-254-dandenong-road-st-kilda-east-vic-3183-159832" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-auth="NotApplicable">7/254-256 Dandenong Rd, St Kilda East</a> was sold though hockingstuart.
The 1920s first floor studio apartment had last sold at $143,500 in 2007.
The studio sold for well inexcess of the ANZ Realas website price estimate which suggested its value as $181,000.
The agent's price guide had been $195,000 to $210,000.
It has been a $280 a week rental in recent years.
</div>
<div class="x_column">
In Melbourne, the preliminary auction clearance rate of 56.8 per cent was recorded across 545 auctions, up slightly from the 56.6 per cent final clearance rate last week when a higher 672 homes were auctioned. 
One year ago, the clearance rate was a stronger 77.5 per cent across 1,099 auctions.
Melbourne's top result was <a id="LPlnk545050" class="x_OWAAutoLink" href="https://www.cayzer.com.au/property/343-Montague-Street-Albert-Park-3338222" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-auth="NotApplicable">343 Montague Street, Albert Park</a> (below) which fetched $3.29 million though Cayzer Real Estate.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/5/13/Albert1.jpg" alt="">
Its pre-auction price guidance was $3 million to $3.3 million.
The 1890s terrace last sold at $400,000 in 1992.
There were 441 auctions held in Sydney returning a preliminary auction clearance rate of 65.6 per cent; the strongest preliminary result across the capital cities, compared to 57.2 per cent across 539 last week, and 57.5 per cent across 787 auctions one year ago.
Sydney's top sale was <a id="LPlnk818190" class="x_OWAAutoLink" href="https://www.bresicwhitney.com.au/buy/89-johnston-street-annandale-21449" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-auth="NotApplicable">89 Johnston Street, Annandale</a> (below) which fetched $4,025,000 through BresicWhitney, after being passed in at $3.9 million.
It last sold at $2.1 million in 2008.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/5/13/Annan.jpg" alt="">
Set on a 10m-wide block, the five bedroom two bathroom home comes with Himalayan sandstone flooring in its entertaining space.
Across the smaller auction markets, preliminary results show that Perth was the best performing in terms of clearance rate with 53 per cent of auctions successful, however there was only 18 auctions held across the city.
The 1890s Perth home at <a id="LPlnk44574" class="x_OWAAutoLink" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://mackhall.com.au/for-sale/perth/37-glendower-street/4223900" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-auth="NotApplicable">37 Glendower Street</a>, a three-bedroom, two-bathroom offering redesigned in the 1980s by one of WA's avant-garde architects, failed to find a buyer though Brent Morfesse of Mack Hall.
Brisbane was the weakest performing auction market, according to preliminary results with 83 homes auctioned and 39 per cent been sold under the hammer.
Brisbane's top sale was $881,000 when the four bedroom home at <a id="LPlnk456635" class="x_OWAAutoLink" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://raywhiteeightmileplains.com.au/properties/residential-for-sale/qld/eight-mile-plains-4113/house/2092186" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-auth="NotApplicable">3 Kirstin Steet, Eight Mile Plains</a> was sold for the first time.
It was the first sale since the land sold in 1973 at $14,000.
Things were looking bleak when <a id="LPlnk247297" class="x_OWAAutoLink" href="https://www.raywhite.com/qld/highgate-hill/2090912/?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-auth="NotApplicable">169 Gladstone Street, Highgate Hill</a> (below)<a id="LPlnk923402" class="x_OWAAutoLink" href="https://www.domain.com.au/169-gladstone-road-highgate-hill-qld-4101-2015133161" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-auth="NotApplicable">,</a> went to auction with just the two onlookers who'd yet to get their finances organised and no registered bidders.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/5/13/Highgate.jpg" alt="">
But mid-auction, the neighbour stuck their head out of the window, then registered and placed a bid to buy it.
The buyers were the vendor’s children, who had grown up in the property and then moved next door.
“It’s probably the strangest auction I’ve ever had in my career," agent Tom Lyne, of Ray White New Farm told Domain.
It had been for sale over the past two years seeking $850,000 plus, having sold at $905,000 in 2007.
The unrenovated six bedrooms, three bathroom home, with potential for re-development, currently has a $985 rental return per week.
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
 
<div class="page" title="Page 1">
<div class="section">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<table style="width: 605px;" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="5"><tbody>
<tr>
<td colspan="2">
Most expensive
</td>
<td colspan="2"> </td>
</tr>
<tr id="x_rpMostExpensive_trMostExpensiveRow_0">
<td id="x_rpMostExpensive_tdMostExpensiveCity_0" align="left">Sydney</td>
<td id="x_rpMostExpensive_tdMostExpensiveLocation_0" colspan="2">89 Johnston St, Annandale NSW 2038, 5 br House, BresicWhitney Glebe</td>
<td id="x_rpMostExpensive_tdMostExpensiveSold_0">$4,025,000</td>
</tr>
<tr id="x_rpMostExpensive_trMostExpensiveRow_1">
<td id="x_rpMostExpensive_tdMostExpensiveCity_1" align="left">Melbourne</td>
<td id="x_rpMostExpensive_tdMostExpensiveLocation_1" colspan="2">343 Montague St, Albert Park VIC 3206, 3 br House, Cayzer Real Estate</td>
<td id="x_rpMostExpensive_tdMostExpensiveSold_1">$3,290,000</td>
</tr>
<tr id="x_rpMostExpensive_trMostExpensiveRow_2">
<td id="x_rpMostExpensive_tdMostExpensiveCity_2" align="left">Adelaide</td>
<td id="x_rpMostExpensive_tdMostExpensiveLocation_2" colspan="2">25 Heathpool Rd, Heathpool SA 5068, 4 br House, Carter Partners - BURNSIDE</td>
<td id="x_rpMostExpensive_tdMostExpensiveSold_2">$1,112,000</td>
</tr>
<tr id="x_rpMostExpensive_trMostExpensiveRow_3">
<td id="x_rpMostExpensive_tdMostExpensiveCity_3" align="left">Brisbane</td>
<td id="x_rpMostExpensive_tdMostExpensiveLocation_3" colspan="2">3 Kirstin St, Eight Mile Plains QLD 4113, 4 br House, RW Eight Mile Plains</td>
<td id="x_rpMostExpensive_tdMostExpensiveSold_3">$881,000</td>
</tr>
<tr id="x_rpMostExpensive_trMostExpensiveRow_4">
<td id="x_rpMostExpensive_tdMostExpensiveCity_4" align="left">Canberra</td>
<td id="x_rpMostExpensive_tdMostExpensiveLocation_4" colspan="2">19 Macartney Cr, Deakin ACT 2600, 4 br House, Belle Property Kingston</td>
<td id="x_rpMostExpensive_tdMostExpensiveSold_4">$1,735,000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="2">
Most affordable
</td>
<td colspan="2"> </td>
</tr>
<tr id="x_rpMostAffordable_trMostAffordableRow_0">
<td id="x_rpMostAffordable_tdMostAffordableCity_0" align="left">Sydney</td>
<td id="x_rpMostAffordable_tdMostAffordableLocation_0" colspan="2">36 Mawson Rd, Tregear NSW 2770, 7 br House, Laing+Simmons Mount Druitt</td>
<td id="x_rpMostAffordable_tdMostAffordableSold_0">$395,000</td>
</tr>
<tr id="x_rpMostAffordable_trMostAffordableRow_1">
<td id="x_rpMostAffordable_tdMostAffordableCity_1" align="left">Melbourne</td>
<td id="x_rpMostAffordable_tdMostAffordableLocation_1" colspan="2">7/254-256 Dandenong Rd, St Kilda East VIC 3183, 1 br Unit, Hocking Stuart St Kilda</td>
<td id="x_rpMostAffordable_tdMostAffordableSold_1">$216,500</td>
</tr>
<tr id="x_rpMostAffordable_trMostAffordableRow_2">
<td id="x_rpMostAffordable_tdMostAffordableCity_2" align="left">Adelaide</td>
<td id="x_rpMostAffordable_tdMostAffordableLocation_2" colspan="2">2/6 Carlton Rd, Camden Park SA 5038, 2 br House, HAR Sheppard Property RLA 211280</td>
<td id="x_rpMostAffordable_tdMostAffordableSold_2">$365,000</td>
</tr>
<tr id="x_rpMostAffordable_trMostAffordableRow_3">
<td id="x_rpMostAffordable_tdMostAffordableCity_3" align="left">Brisbane</td>
<td id="x_rpMostAffordable_tdMostAffordableLocation_3" colspan="2">35 Doorey St, Keperra QLD 4054, 3 br House, HAR Solutions - MITCHELTON</td>
<td id="x_rpMostAffordable_tdMostAffordableSold_3">$605,000</td>
</tr>
<tr id="x_rpMostAffordable_trMostAffordableRow_4">
<td id="x_rpMostAffordable_tdMostAffordableCity_4" align="left">Canberra</td>
<td id="x_rpMostAffordable_tdMostAffordableLocation_4" colspan="2">142 Lawrence Wackett Cr, Theodore ACT 2905, 3 br House, IPG - Belconnen</td>
<td id="x_rpMostAffordable_tdMostAffordableSold_4">$450,000</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
 
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-terrace-nsw-darlinghurst-130954586"> </a>
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Low volumes but weekend auctions show stronger sales trend 

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The north-western Sydney suburb Castle Hill is seen as a desirable location and a suburb many locals aspire to live in, according to a recent Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
"This suburb provides a variety of real estate, but houses begin from $1.2 million for entry-level dwellings to executive style mansions at between $3 million and $4 million," says the valuation firm. 
The report notes the main draw cards are high quality schools, larger blocks, quiet leafy streets and close proximity to a major shopping centre, bulky goods precinct and the Norwest business park.
In addition there are two new train stations being built within the suburb.
The median value in Castle Hill for houses in 2018 was $1.4 million, according to realestate.com.au.
"For that sort of money, you can get an updated four-bedroom home on a decent parcel of land with potentially a pool," says the HTW report. 
The house at<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-castle+hill-130380630" target="_blank"> 23 St Marks Avenue </a>(pictured below) recently sold for $1.35 million and provides four bedrooms, three bathrooms, double garage and a pool on a 923 square metre block.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/5/7/castle%20hill%201.jpg" alt="">
An example of a high-end property is this six-bedroom, six-bathroom executive dwelling at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-castle+hill-128303606" target="_blank">3 Lomond Place </a>(below) with an eight-car garage.
This home features high quality inclusions with an in ground pool all improved on 2,000 square metres of landscaped land. This property sold for $3.8 million in June 2018.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/5/7/castle%20hill%202.jpg" alt="">
"The absolute entry level for dwellings in Castle Hill is the sub-$1 million market. Any dwellings under this mark have a number of less desirable features, but for the savvy purchaser, present a foothold in the market," says the HTW valuer.
The dwelling at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-castle+hill-130174250" target="_blank">3 Gary Street</a> (pictured below) sold for $940,500 in January. It provides three bedrooms and one bathroom with a built-in garage.
Overall the property is in below average condition and is positioned on a 696 square metre corner block.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/5/7/castle%20hill%203.jpg" alt="">
"The compromise for buying this property is being located on the outskirts of Castle Hill and the dwelling is in need of attention which could be costly. Is it worth it? It all depends on what you want.
"Some people want a detached house they can add value to and escape strata living. Others may wish to spend similar money on a more modern townhouse offering the same or maybe more accommodation with superior features throughout.
"Long term, land in Sydney will become more valuable and having 700 square metres in Castle Hill should prove to be a smart decision."
In the past five years, dwellings in Castle Hill have risen 52% off the back of a huge price boom in Sydney.
While the median has dropped in the past 12 months, Castle Hill in the long term is seen as "a wise move given the solid fundamentals and major draw cards that underpin the area", said HTW. 
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Castle Hill could be a good long-term investment: HTW residential 

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A three bedroom Eglinton, Western Australia home has been listed by mortgagees for $325,000.
John Douglas of Professionals holds the listing. 
Nestled on a 290 sqm allotment, the 2014 built home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-wa-eglinton-131126606" target="_blank">87 Cinnabar Drive</a> comes with open-plan living/dining area, home theatre/formal lounge, modern kitchen, carpeted master bedroom and two other bedrooms. 
Other features include internal laundry, reverse cycle air conditioning and rear access to double lock up garage. 
The house is situated opposite a park.
It was previously listed with a price guide of $339,000 and $369,000 back in June 2018 which was reduced to $329,000 by the end of November 2018 when the property was taken off market again.
Last sold in 2013 the previous home traded for $193,000.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/subscribe" target="_blank"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/1/Subscriber%20strip%20ad.jpg" alt=""></a>
According to CoreLogic, the annual change in median price in <a href="/developments/eglinton-wa-6034">Eglinton</a> over the past 10 years is -2.8%.
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