<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

<main data-perf-region="main">
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>

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?

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

<html><body>
The auction for Sandstone Island, about 600 metres off the Mornington Peninsula coast, ended with a single bid.
The Victorian island property was passed in at $1 million.
The 22.25 hectare island is about 1 kilometre from Hastings.
It comes with two beaches, a yacht mooring and a house on it.
The Herald Sun reported a crowd of about a dozen attended the auction.
<a href="/news/vic/sandstone-island-off-mornington-peninsula-listed-for-november-auction">Pre-auction feedback</a><a href="/news/vic/sandstone-island-off-mornington-peninsula-listed-for-november-auction"></a> had ranged from $3 million to $5 million.
Five Melbourne families combined to buy the island 18 years ago.
They had tried to sell it in 2015 for about $5 million.
The island was first settled in 1854 by the Rogers family.
</body></html>

j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Sandstone Island passed in after auction marooned on one bid

<html><body>
A four bedroom two bathroom Jimboomba, Qld house has been listed by its mortgagee.
Located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-jimboomba-129949778" target="_blank">61-65 Coachwood Drive, Jimboomba</a> the home is set for auction on December 22.
Set on a 0.41 ha block the home is within walking distance of school and day care.
The 4,050 sqm is fully fenced and the home features a two car garage.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2018/11/21/Jimbo%202.JPG" alt="">
Featuring solar power and air conditioning the home is a few minutes from a new shopping precinct.
The median sale price for a home in <a href="/developments/jimboomba-qld-4280">Jimboomba</a> is $530,000, according to CoreLogic data.
</body></html>

Four bedroom Jimboomba home listed by mortgagee

<html><body>
The NSW Sheriff’s office has cancelled this week's scheduled auction of the Bondi hoarders home.
The solicitors for Waverley Council have received payment from the current occupants in satisfaction of the outstanding amount.
It is the third time the auction has been cancelled during the past three years.
The auction was set to be held on November 22 with $2 million plus hopes, based on previous price guides.
The Bobolas family’s notorious rubbish-ridden Californian bungalow last sold to Mary Bobolas in 1973 for $15,000.
There are currently five writs on title, totalling more than $248,000 worth of council clean-up charges and legal fees.
Ric Serrao, of Raine &amp; Horne Double Bay, had been enlisted again to market the 550 square metre property.
He issued 20 contracts.
The Boonara Avenue property was offered to buyers in 2016, but the auction was cancelled at the last minute when the family produced enough funds to pay off part of their debt to council for their continual clean-ups.
When it was listed in 2015, around 63 contracts were issued, but the Bobolas family again managed to come up with the money just hours before the auction.
</body></html>

Bondi hoarders home pulled from auction

<html><body>
<div>EXPERT OBSERVATION</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Housing is Australia’s single largest asset class, worth more than four times the value of Australian-listed stocks.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>In New Zealand, investment in houses represented around one third of all investor activity in a 12-month period.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Today’s choices in investment opportunity have reduced as investors are faced with low interest rates, inflation rates, taxes and a stock market that is out of an individual’s control.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Real estate is more than an asset class; it is a long-term asset wealth growth vehicle too. Real estate protects investment against inflation through the economic cycles and offers growth in response to increasing demand for property.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Investment concentrations tend to be highest within the capital cities, and we are all very aware of Sydney, Melbourne and Auckland and the machinations in those markets.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Take Sydney, Melbourne and Auckland out of the picture and look at investment potential in other major cities, mining regions, coastal markets and other markets associated with tourism and lifestyle factors.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Queensland’s improving economy, housing affordability, a rise in interstate migration and increased optimism in the market are all driving the value of the state’s residential real estate sector, for example.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Coastal and inland regions of all Australian states have the potential for rental return and capital gain. Cairns, Townsville, Mackay, Gladstone, Wagga Wagga, Dandenong and Mount Gambier are fair examples here.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>In New Zealand, the average national property price climbed 65 to 70 per cent over a decade, putting in a better performance than the share market.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>
Almost half the value of New Zealand homes is inside Auckland city but as that market takes a breather, look to the opportunities to in regional New Zealand: in Wellington, Christchurch, Tauranga, Invercargill and others.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>A massive opportunity to buy may exist in every Australian state and New Zealand region so don’t allow two or three markets to taint the scene.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Even within a single city, there’ll be better investment opportunities than others.</div>
<div> </div>
<div> Look at the $5 million-plus market, which appears very strong in Sydney, a good example of a truly international city with a limit to its land availability.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Every area that booms has to have a breather, and there will be opportunities to get back into that market.</div>
<div>
 MICHAEL DAVOREN is the Managing Director of RE/MAX Australia &amp; New Zealand
</div>
</body></html>

Where there are markets there are opportunities: Michael Davoren

<html><body>
A three bedroom two bathroom house in Success, WA has been listed by its mortgagee.
Located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-wa-success-129901986" target="_blank">24 Prespa Loop, Success</a> the home is set for auction on December 15.
Set on 257 sqm the home features a two car garage.
The home is within walking distance of schools and transport links.
It is a short drive to the beach, featuring an open plan living/dining area and timber look flooring in the living areas.
<div>
<div class="tell-me-more tell-me-more--expanded">Last sold in 2016, the home went for $233,000.</div>
<div class="tell-me-more tell-me-more--expanded"> </div>
<div class="tell-me-more tell-me-more--expanded">The median price for a home in <a href="/developments/success-wa-6164">Success</a> is $511,500, according to CoreLogic data.</div>
</div>
</body></html>

Three bedroom Success, WA house listed by mortgagee

<html><body>
A three bedroom two bathroom Strathpine, Qld home has been listed by its mortgagee.
Located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-strathpine-129903390" target="_blank">8 Trafalgar Court, Strathpine</a>, the home is set for a December 15 auction.
Set on 701 sqm the home is minutes from both local bus stops and local shops.
Featuring a double car garage the property is fully fenced.
Last sold in 2008 the property went for $410,000.
The house was unsuccessfully marketed at $480,000 for a year from 2011 to 2012.
The median sale price in <a href="/developments/strathpine-qld-4500">Strathpine</a> is $420,000, according to CoreLogic data.
</body></html>

Three bedroom Strathpine house listed by its mortgagee

<html><body>
A two bedroom two bathroom Mooroobool, QLD apartment has been listed by its mortgagee.
Located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-unit-qld-mooroobool-129907926" target="_blank">308/22-24 Ward Street, Mooroobool</a>, the home is scheduled for auction on December 11.
Set on 123 sqm the home is situated in a gated complex.
Features of the complex include, a resort style swimming pool, an onsite gymnasium, a children's playground as well as parking for one car.
There are relatively low body corporate fees of $3,754 annually.
Last sold in 2007, the home went for $237,000.
The construction of the apartment was completed in 2008.
<div>
<div class="tell-me-more tell-me-more--expanded">The median price for a home in <a href="/developments/mooroobool-qld-4870">Mooroobool</a> is $378,000, according to CoreLogic data.</div>
</div>
</body></html>

Two bedroom Mooroobool apartment listed by mortgagee

<html><body>
EXPERT OBSERVER
Over the three months to October 2018, more than three quarters (75.4%) of properties that sold transacted for less than their original listed price.
By comparison, over the same period, 7.0% of properties sold for their originally listed price with the remaining 17.6% selling for more than the originally listed price.
Over the past decade, even in periods where dwelling value growth was quite strong, the majority of properties sold nationally continued to sell for less than the original list price, highlighting that even during the boom times vendors will need to be flexible on their price expectations and buyers will seek out room to negotiate.
Since the middle of 2015, which is prior to value growth starting to slow but at a time where credit availability was tightening and transaction volumes were starting to fall, the share of properties selling for less than the original list price has been trending higher.
Geographically the rising trend of a greater share of properties selling with a discount is being driven by the Sydney and Melbourne markets where buyers have endured a long period of low advertised stock levels, rapidly rising prices and intense FOMO (fear of missing out).
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2018/11/15/PP%20CL%20CC.JPG" alt="">
As housing market conditions have weakened, buyers have more stock to choose from and far less urgency.
They are gaining more leverage, negotiating harder and a growing proportion of vendors are selling at prices lower than their original advertised price.
Outside of Sydney and Melbourne the trends are quite different, with the proportion of properties selling below the original list price holding reasonably firm.
Hobart, where housing market conditions have been strong relative to the other cities, is the exception, with an ongoing reduction in the proportion of properties selling below the original list price.
Across the combined capital cities, 73.6% of properties sold for less than list price over the past 3 months compared to 21.5% for more than list price.
Between 2013 and 2015 value growth was particularly strong and at that time a relatively high proportion of properties were selling above their list price.
It’s a very different story across the combined regional markets over recent years with very few properties selling above the original list price.
At its peak, 18.1% of properties sold in excess of the original list price, by comparison over the past three months 78.9% sold for less than their original list price and 13.0% sold for more than the original list price.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2018/11/15/PP%20CL%20CC%202.JPG" alt="">
Sydney has been one of the strongest markets for value growth over recent years however, a big spike in listings and tighter credit conditions has made selling much more difficult.
At one point in mid-2015 more than three quarters of properties sold for more than the original list price.
Fast forward to the current market and 83.3% of properties are selling for less than the original list price compared to 13.3% selling above the list price.
Sydney vendors are now discounting their asking prices by 7.3% on average in order to make a sale, compared with only 5.4% a year ago.
At the peak in October 2015, 25.8% of properties in Regional NSW sold for more than the original list price highlighting that over recent years selling conditions were never quite as strong as those in Sydney.
Over the past 3 months, 82.0% sold for less than the original list price while 9.8% sold in excess of that price.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2018/11/15/PP%20CL%20CC%203.JPG" alt="">
Melbourne is currently seeing 76.3% of properties selling below the original list price which is the highest share in at least 12 years.
As recently as April last year, when values were rising at a double-digit annual rate, 34.4% of properties were selling for less than the original list price.
By comparison today, only 18.7% of properties have sold over the past three months for more than the original list price and vendors are, on average, discounting their prices by 6.1% to make a sale.
There has never been a particularly large share of properties selling above their original list price across Regional Vic.
Currently, 9.5% sell for the original list price, 77.5% sell below list price and 13.1% sell above.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2018/11/15/PP%20CL%20CC%204.JPG" alt="">
Brisbane’s housing market has seen very little value growth over the past decade and as a result a majority of properties has consistently sold for less than the original list price.
Over the past three months, 65.7% of properties sold for less than the original list price compared to 28.8% selling in excess of the list price.
Vendors are discounting their asking prices by an average of 5.7% in order to make a sale, which is roughly the same level of discounting relative to the same time last year.
The weakness that has been evident across parts of Regional Qld, especially those areas associated with the mining and resources sector, has seen a significant majority of properties over recent years sell for less than the original list price.
Over the past 3 months; 76.5% of property sales were less than the original list price compared to 17.0% selling for more.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2018/11/15/PP%20CL%20CC%205.JPG" alt="">
When the Adelaide market was experiencing surging values in 2007 more than 60% of properties were selling above their list price however, over recent years, with housing values holding reasonably steady, very few properties have sold above the list price.
Over the past 3 months; 72.8% have sold below the list price and 21.3% have sold above the list price.
The ongoing weak housing conditions in Regional SA means that in terms of the original list price most purchasers have bought at a discount to that figure.
Over the current period; 86.3% of properties sold for less than the list price and 5.9% sold for more than the list price.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2018/11/15/PP%20CL%20CC%206.JPG" alt="">
The ongoing weak housing market conditions in Perth over the past decade has meant that the majority of properties have sold for less than the original list price.
At their peak in mid 2011 (a time at which values were declining), 90.2% of properties sold for less than the originally listed price.
Over the past three months; 76.8% of properties sold below list price which is slightly lower than a year ago but still elevated and 19.0% sold in excess of the list price.
Housing conditions in Regional WA have been weaker than those in Perth culminating in almost all properties selling for less than the originally advertised sale price.
Over the past three months; 84.4% sold for less than their list price and only 9.9% sold for more than their list price.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2018/11/15/PP%20CL%20CC%207.JPG" alt="">
As value growth has strengthened in Hobart, an increasing share of properties have sold for above the initially advertised price.
This is a function of relatively few properties for sale and values rising at an almost double-digit rate over the past year.
Over the past three months; an historic high 74.6% of sales have occurred in excess of the listed price compared to 21.7% below the list price.
As the rate of dwelling value growth is accelerating across Regional Tas, an increasing share of properties are selling in excess of the initially listed price.
Over the past 3 months; 34.8% of properties sold in excess of the list price compared to 55.9% selling below list price and 9.4% selling at list price.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2018/11/15/PP%20CL%20CC%208.JPG" alt="">
With dwelling values falling for a number of years, very few properties in Darwin sell for more than the originally advertised sale price.
Over the past three months; 86.5% sold for less than the list price and 7.7% sold for more than the list price.
Reflecting the tough selling conditions, Darwin vendors are discounting their prices by an average of 11.7% in order to make sale which is substantially higher than any other capital city.
Regional NT is experiencing stronger housing market conditions than Darwin and subsequently a higher share of sales are occurring above the originally listed price.
Over the past three months; 16.7% sold for more than the list price and 70.8% sold below the list price.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2018/11/15/PP%20CL%20CC%209.JPG" alt="">
A much higher share of properties in Canberra are selling at their original list price (14.4%) compared to other regions across the country.
Canberra is also seeing a relatively high proportion of properties selling above the list price (44.3%) although it is trending lower as sales below list price lift to 41.4% of all sales.
The recent decline in sales above the original list price is reflective of the softening housing market conditions across the city.
The data highlights the importance of setting an appropriate asking price on a listed property, and allowing some room for negotiation on the property transaction.
Finding the right balance can be a fine art.
Although the list price is often (not always) known a sale is a negotiation and as this data shows very few properties actually sell for the original list price.
As a result most properties end up selling below their original list price except in very strong markets such as Sydney and Melbourne over recent years and Hobart currently.
The data also shows that in very strong markets, vendors and real estate agents are at times not able to accurately gauge what price a property will sell for with many selling above the list price.
Equally in weak or falling markets a heightened number of properties only sell after the initially targeted sale price is reduced.
</body></html>

ckusher-ujnxiKuFQs

In the last quarter 75% of properties sold for less than their original listed price: Cameron Kusher

<html><body>
Melbourne-based developer Growland has seen its first two-tower stage of Victoria Square, its mixed-use residential project in Footscray, nearly sell out, around two years before its completion.
90 percent of the <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/project/victoria-square-footscray-600015542" target="_blank">apartments have been sold.</a>
Growland recently awarded a $130 million contract to Australian builder LU Simon for the construction of the towers, which has officially commenced.
<div class="page" title="Page 1">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
The $600 million Victoria Square project comprises six residential towers totalling 937 apartments and over 5,500 sqm of commercial, retail and hospitality space on Hopkins Street.
<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/2018/11/19/Vic3.jpg" alt="">
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="page" title="Page 1">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<div class="page" title="Page 1">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
Stage three, titled VS03, has just launched to market and will include a boutique collection of just 86 apartments.
Footscray has quickly become one of Melbourne’s most sought-after inner-suburbs for young homebuyers, with District Data indicating the proportion of residents aged 20-39 has increased by seven percent between 2006 and 2016.
These buyers are driving demand for housing and a subsequent shift in the local built environment, with around 282 dwellings currently under construction in the area.
Growland Chairman Bruce Chan says it’s not surprising Footscray is such a hotspot for young buyers.
</div>
</div>
</div>
<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/2018/11/19/vic2.jpg" alt="">
“Footscray is an ideal location for young families, working professionals and first and second home buyers,” said Chan. 
“In addition to being just 4km from Melbourne’s CBD, it is a thriving education and employment hub in its own right, which is driving the shift in demographics to younger buyers that want to be close to the action. 
“The multicultural community offers an impressive variety of hospitality options and a friendly and vibrant atmosphere. 
“It’s incredibly rewarding to be able to play a role in the area’s rejuvenation and to create a communal space where locals can enjoy top-quality restaurants and retail outlets.” 
For more information <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/project/victoria-square-footscray-600015542" target="_blank">click here.</a>
 
</div>
</div>
</div>
</body></html>

jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

Growland's first two Victoria Square Footscray towers nearly sold out

<html><body>
EXPERT OBSERVER
The announcement that Sydney Markets will move from Flemington to the Aerotropolis in Western Sydney means the existing Flemington site could become a new type of development.
Sydney’s markets were originally in Haymarket close to Darling Harbour but as the city grew they moved west to Flemington closer to the then centre of Sydney at Parramatta.
With Sydney now planned to have three city centres the announcement that the markets will move further west to be part of the third city at the Aerotropolis completes their move to the areas of growth.
This will leave a large site at Flemington ripe for redevelopment.
The Urban Taskforce has asked Sydney architect Tony Owen to develop an exciting vision for the redevelopment of the Flemington site in a manner that retains a number of market uses.
Tony Owen’s proposal (pictured above and below) sets a new standard for urban renewal by incorporating greenery throughout the new built form.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2018/11/19/Greenery.JPG" alt="">
Buildings are dripping in greenery and lower height buildings have green roofs that are used for agriculture that could include cows grazing and free range chickens.
There is another great benefit of the proposal in that all the greenery will reduce the heat build up on the site and manage water run off better as well as cleaning the air.
Flemington 2036 is a glimpse into how urban development will occur in the future. The main residential accommodation is in green towers that overlook the shared facilities and markets in the middle of the site.
Tony Owen has cleverly located the tall buildings nearest the highway and commercial areas with lower buildings near existing residential areas.
The amazing potential of the Flemington site is that a whole community can live and work there with 10,000 residents and 4,000 workers all coming together in a park like environment.
What Tony Owen's vision demonstrates is that urban environments can be green and connected to Urban Agriculture. The whole Flemington village will be self sustainable with the food grown on the site.
The Flemington site is well located between the Sydney CBD and the growing city of Parramatta and it has its own railway station.
There is the option of providing a new station on the proposed Metro West line to further connect the site to jobs in Parramatta and in the Sydney CBD.
Redevelopment of a large site like the Flemington Markets must be a leading example of a new approach to urban living.
CHRIS JOHNSON is the CEO of Urban Taskforce
</body></html>

Latest Buying Insights

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

Editor's Picks

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

Latest Buying Insights

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

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News