An entity directed by HSN's Rafi Assouline and Rebel Property's Allen Linz has filed plans for an impressive new precinct in Woolloomooloo.

The major mixed-use development would transform a prominent William Street site into a new residential village anchored by affordable housing and a large public park.

The proposal, submitted as a State Significant Development Application, covers 164-172 and 174-194 William Street, a 6,398 sqm site between Forbes Street and Dowling Street on the southern edge of Woolloomooloo.

Designed by fjcstudio in collaboration with Bangawarra, Studio Bright and Tribe Studio Architects, the scheme would deliver 227 apartments across four residential buildings ranging in height up to 18 storeys, alongside retail space, public domain improvements and a new publicly accessible park.

<img alt="Rebel" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0eb59b7c-914a-4a5c-b849-3a56749f5e93" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-12%20at%2011.18.51%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=mxM6EEqeoLjrCiTlCzTKTvzpKuh6kSkH" />

It's another design scheme for Rebel, who took <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-rebel-property-group-takes-woolloomooloo-precinct-to-nsw-government">concept plans to the NSW Gov late last year</a>.

The latest plans will be a mix of 167 build-to-sell apartments and 60 affordable apartments, with the affordable housing component representing 15 per cent of the project's gross floor area. The apartment mix includes 12 one-bedroom, 53 two-bedroom, 89 three-bedroom apartments and 13 penthouses, while the affordable housing component would comprise 42 one-bedroom and 18 two-bedroom apartments.

<img alt="Rebel" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3b3d4553-8a8c-4af5-aa8c-519ffb1e28c6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-12%20at%2011.20.12%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=_Yb6ibN7eDnOtQjCNDK2eviORa4qzgv." />

Rebel Property is seeking to take advantage of the NSW Government's infill affordable housing bonus provisions under the Housing SEPP, which provide additional floor space and height in exchange for the delivery of affordable housing for a minimum of 15 years. The planning pathway allows a 30 per cent increase in floor space ratio and building height where 15 per cent of the development is dedicated to affordable housing.

&nbsp;

At the centre of the development is a 1,356 sqm sunlit public park designed to become a new community gathering space at the gateway to Woolloomooloo. The park would be complemented by a network of pedestrian laneways connecting William Street with the surrounding streets, improving permeability through what is currently a largely impermeable block.

<img alt="Rebel" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="257af931-a393-4007-8c6d-7219796df58d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-12%20at%2011.20.51%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=KAHy94GrhaReFsWTGDKfy39EDJ8gEEv4" />

The design team says the public domain has been heavily influenced by the site's topography and Aboriginal cultural heritage, drawing on the escarpments, gullies and landscape characteristics that historically defined the area before urbanisation. The landscape design has been developed in partnership with First Nations consultancy Bangawarra.

The project would be delivered across four separate buildings. The William Street East and William Street West buildings, designed by fjcstudio, would contain the majority of the apartments. Melbourne-based Studio Bright has designed the Forbes Street building, while Tribe Studio Architects is responsible for the Dowling Street building.

Rebel had secured approval for the concept plans late last year.

Joel Robinson

First look: HSN, Rebel, advances Woolloomooloo precinct plans

A locally heritage-listed furniture showroom on Water Street is set to become the centrepiece of a new mixed-use residential development as local developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/keylin-group">Keylin</a> seeks approval for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/lotus-on-water-street-290-water-street-fortitude-valley-qld-4006">Lotus on Water Street</a>, a 15-storey project on the Fortitude Valley side of Spring Hill.

The proposal spans 290 Water Street and 137-141 Warry Street, combining several properties into a 2,869 sqm site that sits between Fortitude Valley, Spring Hill and the rapidly evolving Victoria Park precinct. Keylin's plans would deliver 132 apartments alongside new retail, hospitality and commercial space, while retaining and repurposing the historic Brunswick Home Furnishers Showroom that fronts Water Street.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/jackson-teece">Jackson Teece</a>, Lotus on Water Street comprises a 12-storey residential tower rising above a three-storey podium and communal rooftop terrace. The development includes 76 apartments classified as multiple dwellings and a further 56 units proposed as short-term accommodation, designed to be flexibly used as either accommodation or permanent residences. The apartment mix comprises six one-bedroom, 54 two-bedroom and 16 three-bedroom homes.

<img alt="First look: Keylin unveils heritage-led Lotus on Water Street tower in Fortitude Valley" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9822bb79-6c49-49c9-95ba-319e8c8d81c3" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/fortitude%20valley%20front.png?VersionId=ioW8zbN4UVebbLetTFuv92t.HkdgfR5e" />

Residents would have access to an extensive rooftop recreation level spanning more than 1,200 sqm of communal open space. Plans include a pool, gym, sauna, infrared sauna, yoga area, library, private dining room, barbecue facilities and landscaped entertainment spaces, making the rooftop the project's largest shared amenity offering.

At street level, the proposal focuses on the adaptive reuse of the heritage buildings along Water Street, where 518 sqm of retail and commercial space is planned across shop, office and food and drink outlet uses. A permeable residential lobby would be positioned between the retained heritage buildings, creating a pedestrian connection between the historic streetscape and the new tower behind.

<img alt="First look: Keylin unveils heritage-led Lotus on Water Street tower in Fortitude Valley" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="269cf3e0-7d13-48bf-a318-05a00deb5c10" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/fortitude%20valley%20podium.png?VersionId=DLXmTCLsp6GOcLpQ0h.0z7wKCw59EhN_" />

The heritage retention strategy is central to the scheme. The development application notes that the Brunswick Home Furnishers Showroom and adjoining heritage buildings will remain, with only non-significant structures on the site earmarked for removal under a previously issued Heritage Exemption Certificate. Levels one and two of the new podium are recessed behind the heritage façades to maintain their prominence within the streetscape.

Jackson Teece has drawn inspiration from the site's manufacturing history when designing the podium. The planning documents state that the façade incorporates perforated metal screening that references the woven and rattan furniture historically produced on the site. Cascading and climbing plants are integrated throughout the podium to soften the building's presentation and screen parking levels behind. The landscape strategy also informs the project's name, Lotus on Water Street, drawing on the historic Spring Hollow waterholes that once ran through Spring Hill and the blue water lilies associated with Meeanjin, Brisbane's traditional name.

The proposal also incorporates the neighbouring property at 141 Warry Street, currently occupied by a healthcare service. The existing building would remain, with nine dedicated parking spaces allocated within the new development to support its ongoing operation. In total, Lotus on Water Street proposes 117 car spaces, including 110 resident spaces and seven visitor bays, alongside 100 bicycle spaces.

<img alt="First look: Keylin unveils heritage-led Lotus on Water Street tower in Fortitude Valley" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="70cf07bc-4fd8-4e70-92dd-be8b21c4e4f0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/fortitude%20valley%20site.png?VersionId=txlxrJImM0Sm_vTzHVKh5DDUkyL_CiiA" />

The site sits within the Spring Hill East Precinct of the Spring Hill Neighbourhood Plan and is positioned around 650 metres from both Fortitude Valley Station and Exhibition Station. It is also within walking distance of the King Street precinct, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Herston Quarter and Victoria Park, which is earmarked to become a major venue precinct ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Planning documents describe the location as a key gateway between Spring Hill and Fortitude Valley and highlight the area's increasing importance as new transport infrastructure and Olympic-related investment reshape Brisbane's inner north. The development team argues the project will contribute additional housing supply while activating a section of Water Street that has historically received less investment than other parts of the Valley.

Keylin has become increasingly active across Brisbane and southeast Queensland, assembling sites in strategic inner-city locations. They are currently selling and delivering <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/oria-spring-hill-447-gregory-terrace-spring-hill-qld-4000">Oria Spring Hill</a>, just over 140 apartments due for completion in 2027.

Keylin plans heritage-led Lotus on Water Street apartment development in Fortitude Valley

Roseville is poised for a wave of new apartment development following the NSW Government's rezoning of land around Roseville Station under its Transport Oriented Development program.

The new planning controls have unlocked significant development potential within walking distance of the station, with a number of sites expected to be amalgamated and redeveloped in the coming years as developers seek to take advantage of the increased density allowances.

One of the more restrained developments in the precinct, and set among the first to be delivered having commenced well before the recent changes, is Hyecorp's Juliet. The boutique apartment project is already well under construction and remains on track to welcome residents by the end of the year, offering a markedly different proposition to many of the larger-scale developments now likely to emerge across the suburb.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7395 project_image_fid=278194]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/juliet-roseville-64-pacific-highway-roseville-nsw-2069">Juliet</a> will comprise just&nbsp;34 one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments opposite Roseville Station. For Hyecorp, which has delivered projects across Sydney's Lower North Shore for more than three decades, Roseville presented a rare opportunity to address a growing gap in the market.

"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/roseville-nsw-2069">Roseville</a> has long been one of the North Shore's most tightly held and desirable suburbs, offering a unique combination of village charm, established greenery, excellent transport connections, and proximity to some of Sydney's best schools and lifestyle amenities," Hyecorp said.

"We recognised a growing demand from local homeowners seeking to downsize without leaving the community they have built their lives around. The location presented a rare opportunity to create homes that cater specifically to that buyer profile."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7395 project_image_fid=278196]

The six-level development has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/pbd-architects">PBD Architects</a> as a collection of residences that feel more like homes than apartments. The brief centred generous floorplans, abundant natural light, quality finishes, and strong connections to outdoor space.

PBD Architects drew inspiration from Roseville's established garden suburb character, creating a building that sits comfortably within its surroundings rather than dominating them. The architecture incorporates natural materials, soft forms, layered landscaping, expansive balconies, and generous setbacks to strengthen the connection between residents and the suburb's leafy environment.

"The focus was on designing spacious, house-like residences for discerning owner-occupiers and downsizers who wanted to remain on the North Shore without compromising on comfort, privacy, or design," PBD said.&nbsp;

"Every apartment was to feel considered, timeless, and highly functional."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7395 project_image_fid=278195]

Inside, residences feature engineered timber flooring, stone kitchen benchtops and splashbacks, integrated Fisher &amp; Paykel appliances, ducted air conditioning, and large outdoor entertaining areas designed to take advantage of district and treetop views.

Residents will also have access to a rooftop barbecue and lounge area, alongside practical amenities including parcel lockers, EV charging capability, bicycle storage, a dog wash bay, and a basement car wash facility.

The majority of purchasers so far have been local owner-occupiers from Roseville, Lindfield, Chatswood, Killara, and the broader Upper North Shore, many of whom are transitioning from larger family homes.

"Buyers are looking for spacious, house-like apartments that allow them to downsize without feeling like they are sacrificing comfort or functionality," Hyecorp noted.

"They value large kitchens, generous living areas, ample storage, quality finishes, secure parking, lift access, and low-maintenance living."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7395 project_image_fid=278204]

Juliet sits directly opposite Roseville Train Station and within walking distance of Roseville Village, while Chatswood's retail and dining precinct is only minutes away. The development is also surrounded by some of Sydney's most established schools, including Roseville College, Ravenswood, Pymble Ladies' College, and Knox Grammar, as well as nearby parklands and golf courses.

Juliet is currently more than 75 per cent sold ahead of its anticipated completion in late 2026.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=7395]

Juliet to sit quietly amid Roseville apartment boom

Sherpa Property Group has unveiled the third instalment of its Flourish series, securing full approval for the two-tower, $500 million Flourish Soleira development in Palm Beach.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-soleira-1150-1154-gold-coast-highway-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Soleira</a> will rise from a prominent site in the commercial heart of Palm Beach, the long-time home of Cash Converters and a range of local retailers.

The project will introduce a new retail and dining precinct at ground level, beneath 286 apartments.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=370959]

“We’re very committed to not only providing affordable residential offerings that are much needed in Palm Beach, but also delivering a vibrant new commercial heart that complements the extraordinary growth of the southern Gold Coast,” Sherpa Property Group founder Christie Leet said.

The development will sit under Sherpa's Flourish brand, which is aimed at providing a pathway into the beachside suburb for locals, first-home buyers and downsizers. In a move designed to assist first-home buyers entering the market, Sherpa has reserved all one and two-bedroom, one-bathroom apartments exclusively for eligible first-home buyers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=370964]

“Our vision through Flourish is to create a vibrant retail and lifestyle focal point within the Palm Beach centre zone, delivering thriving communities underpinned by lifestyle-rich locations,” Leet said.

“So far, Flourish has been an incredible success, and we hope to carry this momentum as we progress the next two Flourish projects in Palm Beach.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=371430]

Located across 1150-1164 Gold Coast Highway and 3 Sixth Avenue, the development will comprise two towers. The northern tower will deliver 154 apartments, while the southern tower will add a further 132 residences, helping address ongoing demand for new apartments in the tightly held coastal suburb.

Flourish Soleira will also feature the most extensive rooftop amenity offering ever delivered in Palm Beach.

The two towers will be connected by a skybridge, with residents gaining access to a rooftop recreation deck featuring a full-width swimming pool, hot and cold plunge pools, wellness spaces, a gymnasium, private dining facilities, massage treatment rooms, barbecue areas, a basketball court, golf simulator, indoor and outdoor dining spaces, sun lounges and extensive landscaping.

LPS Group is expected to start construction later this year.

Sherpa is already well advanced on construction of its debut Flourish project, Flourish Amargo, located just around the corner from Soleira. Meanwhile, Flourish Oasis, positioned opposite Amargo, recently commenced construction and has nearly sold out its collection of 47 apartments.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150017]

Sherpa unveils $500m mixed-use Palm Beach precinct, Flourish Soleira

Are mortgage holders set to get a reprieve from the RBA in 2026?

Big Four bank NAB believes so. They are now expecting the next move from the RBA to be a cut, rather than a hike, which they had pencilled in for August. They are unsure of the timing of the cut however, they note in their latest&nbsp;NAB Economics RBA Watch.

NAB Chief Economist, Dr Sally Auld, said recent data suggests the economy has lost momentum and the outlook for rates has shifted, noting that the broader economic backdrop has changed since earlier in the year.

“The next move in the cash rate is likely to be down, but the timing is uncertain," Dr Auld said.

"In February, growth was above trend, the economy was operating above capacity and there was uncertainty over the restrictiveness of rates. None of these conditions exist today,” she outlined.

Dr Auld said recent data pointed to softer momentum across the economy while acknowledging that at the same time, uncertainty remains a key feature of the outlook.

“Both Q1 GDP data and the NAB business survey suggest momentum in the economy has slowed, meaning that growth has likely peaked for the cycle. That said, we are cognisant there is still considerable uncertainty around the outlook, both with respect to activity and inflation.”

Dr Auld said inflation risks and labour market outcomes would be important to watch.

“On the prices side, we are still forecasting above target core inflation through to mid-2027. Margins will compress and weaker labour market outcomes are a risk.”

She said tighter financial conditions are expected to weigh on housing and activity.

“Tighter financial conditions will be reflected in a slowing in house price growth and housing credit growth. In summary, we have greater conviction that the next move in rates is down, but less conviction on the timing.”

Mortgage relief? NAB forecasts RBA rate cut, not hike, after softer economic conditions

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.

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<h2>Who pays Stamp Duty?</h2>

In some circumstances, you may get an exemption. For some states, you won’t have to pay for stamp duty if you are a first home buyer or a pensioner for houses under a particular price. There are also stamp duty concessions, where you may be entitled to a discount.

<h2>How much does Stamp Duty cost?</h2>

Each state has different rules which affect how much you need to pay. These rules can affect the rate you pay, and the timeframe you will need to pay in. Before you buy land or a property, make sure you check the up-to-date information for your state’s stamp duty.

You can use a free stamp duty calculator online to see approximately how much you’ll need to pay. Find out if you’re eligible for an exemption by enquiring on a project via Urban!

Overall, the stamp duty you need to pay will depend on:

<ul>
	<li aria-level="1">How much your land/property is worth</li>
	<li aria-level="1">Where your land/property is located</li>
	<li aria-level="1">What type of land/property it is</li>
</ul>

Want to find out more? <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@UrbanAustralia?utm_source=YouTube&amp;utm_medium=Video&amp;utm_campaign=Subscribe&amp;utm_id=Subscribe">Subscribe to our YouTube channel</a> for more property videos.

Ellen Walker

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

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A gutted, roofless Denistone, NSW home has fetched $1,092,000 after being listed for sale by its mortgagee.
Located at <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/14-anzac-avenue-denistone-nsw-2114-2014886032" target="_blank">14 Anzac Avenue, Denistone</a> the two bedroom one bathroom home came with an auction price guide of $950,000, some $100,000 higher than the home's 2013 sale price of $850,000.
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Previously listed at $1.5 million by the owner in early 2017, the property is set on 799 sqm.
The house is located within close proximity of Ryde Hospital, Eastwood Plaza and close to Top Ryde City.
The listing, through Daniel Hennessy of McGrath Ryde was marketed as a knockdown with any rebuild having "scope to capture views over Parramatta River and Olympic Park".
The median price for a home in <a href="/developments/denistone-nsw-2114">Denistone</a> is $1.777 million, according to CoreLogic, which calculate its annual change in median price over the past 10 years as 8.1%.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Roofless mortgagee Denistone offering sold for $1.092 million

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QM Properties are planning to build a 34-unit development on a riverfront St Lucia site.
The company purchased the 1,242 square metre site in St Lucia for $8.5 million.
QM Properties have amended the 160 Macquarie Street site  DA to provide a boutique luxury apartment project comprising 34 three bedroom apartments.
Brendan Hogan, the director of residential at Colliers International, handled the off-market expressions of interest campaign.
Glenn Rix, the development manager at QM Properties, said the north-facing riverfront project will be launched to the market in the second half of 2019.
QM Properties is a Brisbane based private development company with a history spanning over 40 years.
Their current portfolio includes residential, commercial, industrial and leisure developments, primarily within South East Queensland.
The site has passed hands several times, with Melbourne developer <a href="/news/melbourne-developer-kokoda-buys-st-lucia-brisbane-riverfront-site">Kokoda Property paying $9.5 million</a> for the site in 2017. 
Kokoda had planned a 15-storey, 60-unit development.
Photo: Prior listing of property from 2013.
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QM Properties plans 34-unit development on $8.5 million St Lucia site

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Goldfields' plans for the development of an 85-unit Chatswood residential tower has been endorsed by Willoughby Council.
The Chatswood development will be a further addition to Goldfields’ growing pipeline in New South Wales.
"Our project in Chatswood will be one of the first approved developments under the Chatswood CBD Planning and Urban Design Strategy, so it is a great opportunity to bring high-quality mixed-use residentialto an area that is demanding it," managing director of Goldfields, Marco Gattino, said.
The new development site is 400 metres from Chatswood Railway Station and Westfield Shopping Centre.
Construction is set to begin September 2020.
"It’s been a challenging 12 months for Australian property, however Sydney’s Lower North Shore is quickly becoming one of the most searched and desired places to live and work in Australia; and I see this trend continuing into 2020," Gattino said.
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Development approval for Goldfields project in Chatswood 

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An interesting series of charts was posted by Simon Pressley of Propertyology, showing how a number of Brisbane construction hotspots have seen the rental supply tightening back into balance.
Pressley showed tightening vacancy rates in Nundah (1.6%), Bulimba (2.8%), and Chermside (2.2%) as a few prime examples, while West End and Fortitude Valley were still chewing through the their glut in January 2019. 
A bit closer in, here's New Farm and Teneriffe with the rental supply at the tightest level since 2013.
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BoPSEDLF9Qc/XGclMjbarMI/AAAAAAAAud4/5aE0-lar1Zo7unykmnj8FjPOAHK2U-_JACLcBGAs/s1600/4005.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BoPSEDLF9Qc/XGclMjbarMI/AAAAAAAAud4/5aE0-lar1Zo7unykmnj8FjPOAHK2U-_JACLcBGAs/s640/4005.jpg" width="640" height="370" data-original-height="604" data-original-width="1042"></a>
Source: SQM Research
Hamilton also recorded its lowest vacancy rate since 2013.
Commencements and units under construction have levelled off, while new approvals continue to slide back towards historic averages.
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kFNTHPXnuUc/XGcmXCOSJnI/AAAAAAAAueE/Ux_4nPAi9IIsRykVgkeDyHzIpzust4x3gCLcBGAs/s1600/A1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kFNTHPXnuUc/XGcmXCOSJnI/AAAAAAAAueE/Ux_4nPAi9IIsRykVgkeDyHzIpzust4x3gCLcBGAs/s640/A1.jpg" width="640" height="362" data-original-height="799" data-original-width="1409"></a>
And while not all internal migrants head to the capital cities, as I write, this interstate migration to Queensland is at its highest level in about 13 years, those heady pre-crisis days when when the mining boom was in full swing. 
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IuA2xbvjQNk/XGcnJnkNq8I/AAAAAAAAueM/ej7ZA6C_KO0zK7dI3LOhGl_1W6hpYf1gACLcBGAs/s1600/NIM.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IuA2xbvjQNk/XGcnJnkNq8I/AAAAAAAAueM/ej7ZA6C_KO0zK7dI3LOhGl_1W6hpYf1gACLcBGAs/s640/NIM.jpg" width="640" height="372" data-original-height="796" data-original-width="1368"></a>
While developers aim to manage risk as well as they can, there's always an element of forecasting of demand when strategies are put together.
For a while it looked as though the demand for units and rentals wouldn't keep up with the record rates of construction.
But it increasingly looks as though things have swung back into balance in the nick of time, as Queensland draws more and more internal migrants away from the major capitals. 
<div>PETE WARGENT is the co-founder of AllenWargent property buyers (London, Sydney) and a best-selling author and <a href="https://petewargent.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">blogger</a>.</div>
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pwargent-M4siyDbqQY

Brisbane filling up with rental supply tightening: Pete Wargent

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Many discretionary vendors don't think it is quite the right time to test the market in the emerging few months of 2019.
But the early bird 2019 vendors have actually done okay, with less competition on the Saturday auction scene.
We have had two weekends with the preliminary Sydney clearance rate sitting nice in the 50s.
The boss of Ray White Brian White wasn't surprised has he'd sensed buyers are looking for opportunities in the markets that have been hardest hit by the recent adjustment. 
Agents had been noticing since early January that the numbers of attendees at their open for inspections were well up on the same time last year, which gave them some confidence.
Ofcourse inspection numbers are just one indicator, getting hands up at auction quite another feat.
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All the negative headlines - sometimes validated by chats among friends and family around the backyard summer bbqs - do have the capacity to undermine our collective psyche.
The early 2019 auction volumes are low, and therefore harder to read in market direction, but there is a possibility some would-be buyers have said enough, and are happy to buy.
February auction clearance rates are always much stronger than where the prior year left off. 
Last December auctions saw a fatigued 40 per cent clearance rate, according to CoreLogic.
The auction success rate had declined through the year having opened 2018 with a 64 percent February clearance rate.
Through the years there have been big new year rebounds. 
There was a huge turnaround coming out of the global financial crisis over summer with the December 2008 success rate being 42 percent but 63 percent in February 2009.
Confident starts after the summer break are or course no guarantee that the entire year remains strong.
Especially as while the new listings around Sydney in the past 28 days are down by around 22 percent on last year, there are very high levels of unsold auction and private treaty stock left over from last year that might be a weight on the 2019 market.
CoreLogic calculate unsold Sydney stock left over from last year sitting now at 27,000 or so, which is up 15 percent on last February's 23,000 offerings, meaning much more choice for buyers than this time last year. 
It was at 19,000 listings in February two years ago.
We don't know the bone fides of all these vendors, and some are just there as window displays for estate agents keen to use dormant listings as a means to attract bites.
Vendors do need to be aware that the market is far tougher, even for the most experienced of agents.
The average private treaty is seeing an 8.7 percent discount on asking price before any house sale, and 8.8 percent for apartments.
This time last year it was required 5.7 percent discount on asking price before any house sale, and 5 percent for apartments.
Attuned pricing is more important than ever if vendors want to get a quick decent sale.
Getting wise counsel on the asking price or likely reserve price for an auction is crucial when thinking of just which agent and which sale process best suits your home.
Don't necessarily automatically pick the agent who suggests they'll get the highest price.
Ofcourse go with a confident realistic agent, but ensure your agent selection process includes getting prospective agents to advise on their recent sales and listings.
And ask just where the prices began with these marketing campaigns.
This article was first published in the Saturday Telegraph.
 
 
 
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Crucial to select a confident realistic agent in tougher 2019 property market

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A Melbourne buyers agent Mal James says part of the reason Melbourne's clearance rates are so poor was "the inexperienced/lazy agents’ mindset and sellers’ selection of those agents."
"The right agent in this market is the key to the right price quote, which is the key to maximising a vendor’s price and indeed whether they sell or not," he said.
James suggested price quote lowerings were often a "death sign" for getting a decent price on a publicly listed home last year.
"Price drops make some buyers very nervous, as they perceive the market is saying maybe it’s a bad home and shouldn’t be considered," he blogged
"In these more nervous times, this is not a feeling a professional agent should be inflicting on buyers, as their selling clients want all of them.
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He suggested as Melbourne had been in a falling market for 18 months that current values should not be a surprise to some agents.
"Why pay a selling agent the big bucks if he/she can’t give you the seller, accurate and forthright advice," he said.
He suggested some agents appear to have been frozen into a quoting regime that was not best for their selling client.
But he stressed he was not suggesting agents “underquote.”
"Underquoting is where the agent “knows” the home is worth more than or “knows” the sellers definitely wouldn’t accept the number he/she puts in the Statement of Information  – it’s illegal and immoral and in our opinion, those agents should be prosecuted as it’s deceptive conduct
"However, where an agent “knows” a home is worth considerably less and allows a high quote to become public and then lowers it a few weeks later, because he or she was not prepared to give the hard truths (professionally) to his or her selling client early, is for us, borderline unethical and definitely unprofessional."
James concluded that all agents are allowed a mistake or two as valuing is not a perfect science.
"It's when you see consistent price quote dropping or pass-ins from the same agents, that you cry unprofessional."
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Melbourne estate agents need to tell sellers the hard truths: Mal James

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Melbourne was the busiest weekend auction market with 560 auctions, up from 352 auctions, returning a preliminary clearance rate of 53.5 percent.
There were 430 Sydney homes auctioned, returning a preliminary auction clearance rate of 56.1 percent, according to Domain.
The highest priced sale was in Sydney when <a href="http://www.ppdre.com.au/1P4416" target="_blank">2 Gipps Street, Bronte</a> (above) sold for $3,180,000 through Phillips Pantzer Donnelly.
The buyers guide had been $2.95 million.
There had been a nearby pre-auction Bronte sale of $5.5 million at 21 Yanko Avenue.
Domain reported the cheapest notified auction sale was in Melbourne's Melton South.
The three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.prdmelton.com.au/20170062/9-macquarie-street-melton-south" target="_blank">9 Macquarie Street</a> (below) sold through PRDNationwide Melton for $308,000.
<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/2019/2/18/Melton1.jpg" alt="">
The price guidance had been $275,000 to $295,000.
Positioned on a 580 sqm lot, the home was marketed as offering "fantastic potential to someone who is a professional renovator or the handyman."
"Bring your toolbox, hammer, and paintbrush and get stuck into this great opportunity," agent Cory Cassar said.
Louis Christopher at SQM said next Saturday would see about 780 auctions for Sydney and over 1000 auctions for Melbourne.
"It will be a very large test for the market as we return to normal volume levels," he said.
Canberra returned a preliminary clearance rate of 46 percent, while Brisbane’s preliminary result came in at 38 percent, both down in clearance rates on the prior weekend.
Adelaide was the top performing market with a 69 percent success rate, with 60 scheduled auctions.
It included a renovated 1880s St Peters home which fetched $1.285 million after being listed with $1.1 million to $1.2 million hopes.
<a href="https://foxrealestate.com.au/property/2-st-peters-street-st-peters-sa-5069" target="_blank">The 2 St Peters Street home</a> (below) , listed through Kirsty Davies at Fox Real Estate, had previously traded at $470,000 in 2005.
<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/2019/2/18/St%20Peters.jpg" alt="">
Corelogic noted national auction activity remains quieter year-on-year with 1,444 homes taken to auction across the combined capitals.
While increasing from the previous week when 928 auctions were held, it was lower than the same week last year when 1,992 auctions were held.
Preliminary results show a clearance rate of 55.2 percent.
Click here <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2019/2/18/Capitals-Feb18.jpg" target="_blank">to enlarge</a>.
<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/2019/2/18/Capitals-Feb18.jpg" alt="">
Last week’s final clearance rate came in at 51.1 cent across the combined capitals, which CoreLogic's auction analyst Kevin Brogan noted was the first time the final clearance rate sat  above 50 percent since September 2018. 
CoreLogic put Sydney's auction clearance rate at a nine-month high.
One year ago, the national clearance rate was 66.1 percent.
Melbourne's top sale was a <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-surrey+hills-130274414" target="_blank">1902 Surrey Hill charmer, Devon</a> (below) which fetched $2.84 million, followed by a 172sq m property with potential in Albert Park sold for $2.605 million.
<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/2019/2/18/Devon.jpg" alt=""> 
The prime corner Beaconsfield Parade offering, called on the market at $2.555 million, had no heritage overlay 
<table style="height: 24px; width: 602px;" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="5"><tbody><tr id="x_rpMostExpensive_trMostExpensiveRow_0">
<td id="x_rpMostExpensive_tdMostExpensiveLocation_0" colspan="2">Most expensive</td>
<td id="x_rpMostExpensive_tdMostExpensiveSold_0"> </td>
</tr></tbody></table>
<table style="width: 605px;" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="5"><tbody>
<tr id="x_rpMostExpensive_trMostExpensiveRow_0">
<td id="x_rpMostExpensive_tdMostExpensiveCity_0" align="left">Sydney</td>
<td id="x_rpMostExpensive_tdMostExpensiveLocation_0" colspan="2">21 Yanko Av, Bronte NSW 2024, 4 br House, PhillipsPantzer Donnelley</td>
<td id="x_rpMostExpensive_tdMostExpensiveSold_0">$5,500,000</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">17 Tyrone St, Camberwell VIC 3124, 3 br House, Marshall White Boroondara</td>
<td id="x_rpMostExpensive_tdMostExpensiveSold_1">$2,305,000</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">2 St Peters St, St Peters SA 5069, 3 br House, Fox Real Estate</td>
<td id="x_rpMostExpensive_tdMostExpensiveSold_2">$1,285,000</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">380 London Rd, Belmont QLD 4153, 5 br House, HAR Green Living</td>
<td id="x_rpMostExpensive_tdMostExpensiveSold_3">$1,850,000</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">48 Drooka Cr, Crace ACT 2911, 4 br House, LJH Weston Creek</td>
<td id="x_rpMostExpensive_tdMostExpensiveSold_4">$1,461,000</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">2 St Lawrence Av, Blue Haven NSW 2262, 3 br House, Capital One Real Estate - Central Coast</td>
<td id="x_rpMostAffordable_tdMostAffordableSold_0">$390,000</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">9 Macquarie St, Melton South VIC 3338, 3 br House, PRDNationwide Melton</td>
<td id="x_rpMostAffordable_tdMostAffordableSold_1">$308,000</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">8/7A East Pallant St, North Adelaide SA 5006, 2 br Unit, C21 The Bay</td>
<td id="x_rpMostAffordable_tdMostAffordableSold_2">$335,000</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">256 Wellington St, Ormiston QLD 4160, 3 br House, Whicher Pty Ltd</td>
<td id="x_rpMostAffordable_tdMostAffordableSold_3">$500,000</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">22 Langdon Av, Wanniassa ACT 2903, 3 br House, RW Canberra</td>
<td id="x_rpMostAffordable_tdMostAffordableSold_4">$460,000</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
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Weekend auctions remain resilient, but property prices still patchy

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A three bedroom, two bathroom Sunshine West, Vic townhouse has been sold by its mortgagee for $515,000.
The vacated home was set for February 16 auction with a price guide of $490,000 to $530,000.
The median price for a home in <a href="/developments/sunshine-west-vic-3020">Sunshine West</a> is $645,000 according to CoreLogic, which calculate its annual change in median price over the past 10 years as 7.9%.
David Falcone of Stockdale and Leggo had the listing at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-townhouse-vic-sunshine+west-130234718" target="_blank">30 Fontana Close</a>.
The similar residence on the corner next door, 30A Fontana Close sold in January last year for $555,000.
Set on 118 sqm the townhouse is located in the Callaway Park estate, with rear access double garaging.
The three bedroom two bathroom home features an open living plan, two parking spaces and a balcony.
It is positioned near shops, schools &amp; public transport.
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It last sold for $400,000 in 2012, while 30A Fontana close sold for $458,000 in 2012.
 
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Mortgagee sells $515,000 Sunshine West townhouse

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The three busiest suburbs for auction locations this week are in New South Wales where Port Macquarie tops the list with 20 homes scheduled for auction, according to CoreLogic data.
Their data shows, Lane Cove and Randwick follow with 15 and 12 scheduled auctions respectively.
Auction volumes are set to rise this week, with over 1,000 homes scheduled for auction across the combined capital cities.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/2/14/14-02%20CL.JPG" alt="">
CoreLogic is currently tracking 1,359 auctions across the capital’s, with volumes up by 46.4 per cent on last week (928), however the lower year on year trend continues with volumes down 31.8 per cent when compared to the same week last year (1,992).
Melbourne is expected to see the most significant increase in volumes over the week, with 607 properties scheduled for auction, up from 350.
Across Sydney, 501 homes are set to go under the hammer this week, increasing from 32.
Canberra and Perth will see an increase in activity over the week, while the remaining cities will see fewer homes taken to auction.
This Sunday, Damien Cooley will be Auctioneering for Elders Real Estate Port Macquarie at Rydges Hotel at 11 am, with a prestige canalfront listing at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property/27-ballina-cres-port-macquarie-nsw-2444" target="_blank">27 Ballina Crescent.</a>
Amid the busy auction weekend in Port Macquarie is <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-port+macquarie-129983054" target="_blank">88 O'Briens Road</a> (pictured in title).
The four bedroom three bathroom house comes with a price guide of $670,000 to $710,000
Set on 806 sqm, the listing notes the home was recently refurbished.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/2/14/Port%20Macq%202.JPG" alt="">
Another in Port Macquarie is <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-port+macquarie-130240306" target="_blank">6 Mahogany Hill</a>.
The three bedroom two bathroom house has an price guide of $599,000 to $658,000
Set on 1,018 sqm it is a 5 minute drive from the CBD.
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Auction volumes up 46% with Port Macquarie the busiest

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EXPERT OBSERVER
In the 2018 year, the number of dwelling approvals fell by 5.5 per cent to 210,772. The biggest decline was in Western Australia (down 16.9 per cent).
The biggest lift in approvals was in the ACT (up by 64.3 per cent).
NSW and Victoria dominate the list of regions with both the biggest gains and declines in approvals.
The approvals data has implications for banks, retailers, developers, building and building material companies.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/2/14/CS%201.JPG" alt="">
What do the figures show and what does it all mean?
Australia is well past the peak of home building activity in the current cycle. In the year to August 2016, 242,779 approvals were granted by local governments to building new homes – the largest ever total for dwelling approvals in a 12- month period. In previous cycles, annual approval numbers had not passed 200,000 approvals.
In 2018, almost 211,000 approvals were granted to build new homes. This figure is still historically high. So while approvals have retreated from highs, there is still a lot of building being done and will be done over 2019.
The number of homes currently being built across Australia is only just below record highs.
The building cycle tends to start with council approval to build the new dwelling. Finance is secured around the same time. And the actual building phase can take over a year in the case of high-rise apartment developments or 6-12 months in the case of free-standing homes.
Different trades and businesses are impacted a different points of the business cycle. So knowledge of which regions are expanding at any point in time is important.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/2/14/CS%202.JPG" alt="">
As pent-up demand for homes is met, the building cycle will change from new construction to renovation activity. That assumes that people are less inclined to move home when home prices are softening and rather choose to extend or enhance their current home.
The Hills Shire (NSW), the ACT and the Central Coast (NSW) were stand-out regions in 2018 in terms of building activity.
Encouraged by infrastructure developments, dwelling approvals in the Hills Shire largely doubled in 2018.
The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) classifies around 570 local government areas (LGAs).
CommSec has ranked the LGAs by the number of dwelling approvals in 2018 and then sorted to find those big building regions with the fastest and slowest growth over 2018.
While home building work will remain firm in 2019 in regions like the Hills Shire in NSW, Logan in Queensland and Geelong in Victoria, capital city apartment construction is set to slow. Dwelling approvals in Sydney fell by 60 per cent in 2018 and fell by 37 per cent in Melbourne.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/2/14/CS%203.JPG" alt="">
In 2018, there were 73 LGAs in Australia where there wasn’t one approval to build a new home. There were 173 regions with fewer than 10 homes approved for construction. The 30 regions with the largest number of dwelling approvals account for half of all new approvals in Australia. 
The big building regions in 2018 were Blacktown (NSW), Wyndham (Victoria), Brisbane City (Queensland), Port Adelaide-Enfield (South Australia), Swan (Western Australia), Clarence (Tasmania) and Palmerston (Northern Territory). 
What are the implications for interest rates and investors? 
Housing supply has responded to the lift in demand. In other words more homes have been built to meet the increasing demand for accommodation from firm population growth. With more supply or choice, buyers have greater negotiating power over vendors (individual owners and developers).
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/2/14/CS%206.JPG" alt="">
As a result, there is downward pressure on prices – especially prices that lifted to unsustainable levels in Sydney and Melbourne suburbs when demand was well in excess of supply. 
But interest rates remain low and the job market is healthy and these factors will act as fundamental supports for home prices. As is always the case, housing moves from periods of under-supply to over-supply. Over the coming year new apartment developments will be completed and some buyers may see the market value of their acquisition is below purchase price.
Buyers, lenders and developers will need to work through this ‘digestion’ process. 
Changing conditions in housing markets are being watched carefully by the Reserve Bank (RBA). Some investors may also need to adjust desired rents in order to attract tenants. First home buyers and budding tenants will be amongst the winners in the softening market conditions. 
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/2/14/CS%204.JPG" alt="">
The RBA noted in the Statement on Monetary Policy: ..”the number of building approvals has been trending lower for more than a year to be around its lowest level since 2013.
"Information from the Bank’s liaison program also points to a slowing in the earlier stages of residential development over the past year."
"In particular, demand for new, off-the-plan apartments in Sydney and Melbourne has declined, driven by weaker demand from domestic investors and foreign buyers. Greenfield land sales have also fallen over the past year. Many property developers cite tighter access to credit as a dampening factor.” 
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/2/14/CS%205.JPG" alt="">
In terms of prices &amp; rents the RBA said: “A large supply of new dwellings in some cities has also placed downward pressure on housing price growth and rents. In general, supply has been concentrated in cities where there has been relatively strong population growth, which should continue to support the underlying demand for new dwellings."
"In the rental market, the national vacancy rate is a little below average. This partly reflects the low vacancy rate in Melbourne as population growth continues to absorb the supply of new dwellings.
"In contrast, the vacancy rate in Sydney has risen, particularly in the middle-ring suburbs as new supply has come online; advertised rent inflation has declined. In other capital cities, rental vacancy rates have fallen and advertised rents have generally risen.”
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/2/14/CS%207.JPG" alt="">
The Reserve Bank recently changed interest rate policy from a tightening bias to a neutral stance.
One reason for the change was the “uncertainty” about how the changing housing conditions will affect consumer spending and employment. 
To date, builders, developers and lenders haven’t reported major issues with defaults or delinquencies from new developments.
Mirvac recently reported that it settled 1,067 residential lots in the six months to December and was on track to meet the target of 2,500 residential lot settlements in 2018/19.
Mirvac noted “Defaults in the period remained below 2 per cent.” AV Jennings noted a low level of unsold stock and didn’t note any major issues with settlements.
CommSec expects interest rates to be unchanged for the foreseeable future.
CRAIG JAMES is the Chief Economist of CommSec
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