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

Joel Robinson

The Eveleigh brings house-like apartments to Broadbeach

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Every First Home Owner Grant for new property by state

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

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

Staff Writer

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

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

alisonwarters@gmail.com

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

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

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

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

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

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EXPERT OBSERVER
We check-in on the regional areas of the country and look at how values have increased over the past year and where they sit relative to previous peaks.
Over the 12 months to April 2018, dwelling values across the combined regional markets have increased by 2.4% compared to a -0.3% fall in values across the combined capital cities.  Although values in regional areas are continuing to rise, the rate of annual growth has slowed from a recent peak of 6.4% in June 2017, although the rolling quarterly rate of growth has shown an accelerating trend over the past six months.
Based on the ‘Statistical Area level 4’ (SA4) geography, there are 42 regions across Australia outside of the capital cities.  Of these 42 regions, 25 have recorded an increase in dwelling values over the past year while the remaining 17 have recorded falls.  Each SA4 region in Western Australia recorded a fall in values over the past year while all of the regional areas of Tasmania and the Northern Territory saw values increase over the past year.
Change in values across regional SA4 markets as at April 2018
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/6/4/REGIONAL%20.jpg" alt="">
Geelong recorded the greatest increase in values across regional Australia over the past year with values rising by 9.8%.  At the other end of the scale, the Mackay-Isaac-Whitsunday region of Queensland recorded the greatest value falls, down -9.4%. Generally speaking, values in regional Australia are growing quickest in those regions relatively close to major capital cities while weakness persists in those regions linked to the mining and resources sector.  While dwelling values are lower in most mining related areas over the past twelve months, many areas have seen a noticeable improvement in the rate of decline relative to previous years.
While regional dwelling values are continuing to climb, albeit at a slower pace, values across a number of these markets remain below their historic peaks.  Of the 42 regions, only 16 regions have dwelling values that are currently at historic high levels.  The Outback (North) region of Western Australia has dwelling values that are currently furthest away from the previous peak level, down -59.6% from October 2012 when values hit a record high.    Focusing on those regions in which values remain below their peak, regions linked to the mining and resources sector typically have current dwelling values which are furthest away from their peak.  Seven SA4 regions across the country currently have values which are down at least 20% from their peak and all of them, except Bunbury in Western Australia, are directly linked to the mining and resources sector. Each of these seven regions have continued to record a decline in dwelling values over the past year.  Although many of these regions are showing signs they are beginning to recover, it will likely be a long way back to their previous historic peaks.
Although regional markets are continuing broadly to see dwelling values increase, the rate of growth has slowed in a number of major regions.  In fact, 12 months ago Illawarra was the best performing regional market for value growth with values 17.4% higher over the year compared to growth of just 2.7% over the past 12 months.  While no regional market recorded annual growth in excess of 10% over the past year, four regions had a year ago (Illawarra, Southern Highlands and Shoalhaven, Richmond-Tweed and Geelong).  Only 13 of the 42 regional markets have recorded stronger value growth over the past 12 months compared to the previous 12 months.  
While value growth is anticipated to remain stronger in regional markets than in capital cities over the coming year, it is expected that those regions close to Sydney in particular, will continue to experience a slowdown in their rate of value growth as interstate migration outflows trend higher and jobs growth becomes more broadly spread outside of New South Wales and Victoria.  Regional markets nearby to Melbourne, Hobart and Brisbane are the most likely to experience an uptick in value growth thanks to strong migration flows and more affordable housing costs.  Additionally, lifestyle markets are well positioned to see growing demand from cashed up baby boomers who have seen a substantial wealth injection from housing value growth in Sydney and Melbourne. 
CAMERON KUSHER is head of research for CoreLogic. You can contact him <a href="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/about/">here</a>.
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ckusher-ujnxiKuFQs

Geelong ranks the strongest regional housing growth market: CoreLogic's Cameron Kusher

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A three bedroom house in Western Australia's Waikiki has been listed by mortgagees. 
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-wa-waikiki-127910294" target="_blank">It has been listed</a> at $217,500 by Patrick Holmes and Louis Dickenson at Raine &amp; Horne, who have had it on their books for 100 days.
The <a href="https://reiwa.com.au/11-bernier-close-waikiki-4054649/" target="_blank">11 Bernier Close, Waikiki</a> house is on a 410 square metre block with three bedrooms and one bathroom.
It was built in 1998 and last sold at $230,000 in 2006.
It features an open plan kitchen, dining and living.
The suburb's median house price sits on $353,500  according to CoreLogic.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Waikiki house mortgagee listing set for loss

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The former Olympic team chef de mission, Kitty Chiller, sold her East Melbourne property, but only after negotiations followed its weekend auction.
The two-bedroom townhouse attracted just the one bidder, an increasing trend at auctions across the capital cities.
Listed with $1.75 million to $1.925 million guidance, Gary Peer agents Adam Paykel and Darren Krongold sold the 1975-built property after it was passed in at $1.66 million.
The sale price was not disclosed.
<a id="x_mcntLPlnk582999" class="x_mcntx_mcntOWAAutoLink x_mcntOWAAutoLink" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-townhouse-vic-east+melbourne-128464106" target="_blank">The Hotham Street property</a> (top) had been tenanted for 16 years having been in her family since 1981 when it cost $128,000, The Herald Sun reported.
Even with four registered bidders, there were post-auction negotiations needed to secure a $2,425,000 Drummoyne sale in Sydney.
The three bedroom <a id="x_mcntLPlnk17429" class="x_mcntx_mcntOWAAutoLink x_mcntOWAAutoLink" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-nsw-drummoyne-128461950" target="_blank">9/68a-70 St Georges Crescent </a>penthouse (below) had been passed in at $2.3 million. The price guide had been $2.35 million.
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Lynsey Kemp, of Belle Property negotiated a post-auction sale to a buyer from Hong Kong who plans to use the property as a Sydney base.
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The highest preliminary clearance rate was again recorded in Adelaide where 68 per cent of the 50 reported auctions were successful, followed by Canberra, where 65.2 per cent of the 46 reported auctions cleared.
Click here <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2018/6/25/june-25.jpg" target="_blank">to enlarge.</a>
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There was an unusual auction occurrence when a Watson house sold for $761,000 under no-reserve auction conditions with the proceeds going to charity.
<div>There were 25 registered bidders when an original 1960s Canberra red brick home which had a staggering 45 contracts issued during the Ray White campaign.</div>
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<div>Local Canberra man Lionel Moore, who passed away in March, willed his home to the children’s cancer charity, Camp Quality.</div>
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<div>The 664sq m property at <a id="x_mcntLPlnk952191" class="x_mcntx_mcntOWAAutoLink x_mcntOWAAutoLink" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-act-watson-128495578" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">5 Harding Street, Watson</a> (below) had been owned by Mr Moore for more than five decades.</div>
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The preliminary national clearance rate sat at to 58.7 per cent this week, after last week saw the final clearance rate revise down to just 52.4 per cent. 
Auction volumes were lower over the week with 1,842 homes taken to auction across the capital cities, down from 2,002 last week as the winter hibernation sets in.
Melbourne was host to 946 auctions over the week, returning a preliminary clearance rate of 62.3 per cent. Over the same week last year, there were 1,047 auctions held in Melbourne, returning a clearance rate of 70.7 per cent.
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There were 635 auctions held in Sydney returning a preliminary auction clearance rate of 55.3 per cent. 
"This time last year, 68.2 per cent of the 939 auctions held were successful," CoreLogic auction analyst Kevin Brogan noted.
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<div>The nation's top seller was a pre-auction sale at Turramurra in Sydney's upper North Shore (below).</div>
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<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/2018/6/25/turra.jpg" alt=""></div>
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The double brick residence designed and built by Chateau Architects and Builders for its 1220sqm level block at <a id="x_mcntLPlnk484337" class="x_mcntx_mcntOWAAutoLink x_mcntOWAAutoLink" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property/29-trentino-rd-turramurra-nsw-2074" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">29 Trentino Road</a> sold for $4.3 million through Di Jones Real Estate.
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Top weekend sale in Sydney as Adelaide and Canberra auctions strong

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Sydney's median house price is forecast to bottom out at eight percent below its June 2017 peak, according to BIS Oxford Economics latest forecast.
It will still sit four percent below the peak by June 2021, the industry analyst and economic forecaster has predicted.
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Sydney’s estimated median house price of $1,120,000 at June 2018 represented a seven per cent increase over the prior 12 months, after recording a substantial 85 per cent rise over the prior five years.
BIS have forecasted an aggregate price growth of three percent between June 2018 and June 2021.
By 2019/20, a combination of the correction in prices, the undersupplied market and some improvement in the economic outlook is forecast to see prices stabilise, and potentially show modest rises into 2020/21, BIS suggests.
The economic forecaster said that although the unit market has a greater exposure to the downturn in investor demand, it appears that the stronger first home buyer demand is helping to support prices.
Nevertheless, median unit prices are expected to have fallen four per cent in 2017/18, with a further fall of three per cent forecast for 2018/19.
By June 2021, the median unit price is forecast to be five per cent off its peak, and 14 per cent lower in real terms.
Investors were the key to the upturn, having consistently accounted for over half the value of residential loans since 2013, compared to around 40 per cent over the prior five years, says BIS Oxford Economics senior manager Angie Zigomani.
However, continued tightening in bank lending policy directed by the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) has caused investors to retreat from the market, which in turn has resulted in the price decline over 2017/18. 
“Lower loan-to-value ratios and rises in interest rates for investors and for interest-only loans have reduced investors’ ability to borrow and bid up prices for dwellings on the market,” he said. 
“This has caused prices to ease as Sydney prices revert to a level that is more affordable under these conditions.” 
Owner occupier demand remains elevated, with first home buyer demand particularly strong in response to State Government stamp duty exemptions.
 However, owner occupier demand appears to have topped out, and with tight lending conditions expected to continue to discourage investors, overall demand will fall, with the median house price also forecast to fall by two per cent in 2018/19. 
Rising new dwelling completions will see the erosion of some of Sydney’s dwelling deficiency, although the market is likely to remain undersupplied which will prevent larger falls in prices.
 
 
 
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jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

Sydney house prices to fall 8 percent from 2017 peak: BIS Sydney forecast

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The biggest dread among vendors going to auction is that their property will be passed in on auction day.
With auction clearance rates now in the 50 percent range, and even lower in some suburbs, this is a very real likelihood.
Selling at a fair market value - or better - is often dependent on the extent of buyer numbers and enthusiasm.
One bidder auctions have become far more prevalent, as vendors lose their grip on being able to secure above reserve outcomes at their auctions across Sydney every Saturday.
There's a special negotiating skill needed for the listing agent to immediately secure a sale in such onsite circumstances.
Ofcourse the agent can knock heads together during the auction, but that will take a bit of give and take from both vendor and buyer.
Vendors certainly need to anticipate this possibility.
But should vendors accept the price drop on offer from the only buyer at the auction or are they best holding off selling until later Saturday afternoon or sometime in the next week.
It all depends on the level of actual and perceived buyer interest, starting from the number of contracts that have been issued in the run up to the auction.
Agents need to follow all their potential buyers closely, and keep their vendors in the loop.
An emerging factor has been that bank finance approvals are slower and harder to get, and many buyers are finding just days before the auction that they need to lodge more information before safely securing finance.
They necessarily sit out the auction. 
This has come about as the financial regulators and the royal commission have frightened the banks so that they are dotting all the i's and crossing every t.
Coming together for post-auction negotiations is a skill that some agents need if their vendors aren't going to sell for far less than they wish.
The biggest myth about properties that sell after auction is that they go on to sell for a poor price.
That is not the case, veteran estate agent John McGrath recently noted given that fresh buyers are coming into the market every week.
The recent clearance rate downturn has likely undermined the benefits many see in a sale by auction which typically come with the potential for a premium sale price.
Unmotivated sellers rarely auction their properties.
Stuart Benson at Benson Auctions noted at a recent realestate.com.au auctioneers' round table that his clearance rate in north west Sydney was down by 15 percent, but after six weeks on the market the sales sat around 90 percent.
Following any post auction campaign that doesn't end in a sale, it is important vendors respond to the issues that possibly caused it.
Best relook at price, presentation and/or marketing), and there is no reason to think it property won’t sell.
This article was first published in the Daily Telegraph.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

One bidder auctions need special estate agent negotiating skills 

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The slowdown in house price growth that emerged through 2017/18 is expected to continue into the 2019 financial year, according to leading industry analyst and economic forecaster, BIS Oxford Economics.
BIS believe house prices in Melbourne will tread water through to 2020/21, rising below the pace of inflation.
They suggest that one of the biggest factors in the lack of median house price growth is the new supply which is continuing to rise.
They are forecasting just a one percent per year increase in the median house price, before an emerging downturn in new dwelling construction results in the city’s deficiency starting to trend upwards by 2020/21, which in turn will see a modest pick up in price growth.
A six percent growth in the median house price in the three years to June 2021 is what BIS are forecasting.
The median house price soared 65 percent over the five years to June 2017, with a further growth of two percent in the six months to December 2017, before a 0.2 percent drop in the first half of 2018.
Population growth and new dwelling supply have been cited as the biggest drivers in the median increase.
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Investors drove the strength of the market in Melbourne, although not to the same extent as in Sydney.
Loans to owner occupiers in Victoria were also at record levels in the year to March 2018, which has helped to offset the weakening investor demand. Consequently, the house prices in Melbourne have held up better in 2017/18 compared to the decline in Sydney.
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Sydney’s median house price is forecast to still be lower that its June 2017 peak by 2021.
The weaker investor demand is coinciding with rising supply and an erosion of the city’s dwelling deficiency, which has alleviated pressure on prices.
Although the market is expected to remain in undersupply, the drop in investor demand is expected to override the undersupply of dwellings, which in turn is forecast to result in modest price declines.
Angie Zigomanis, BIS Oxford Economics senior manager, said more downside is forecast for Sydney.
“In New South Wales and Victoria in particular, where the strength of investor demand has been a key driver of the Sydney and Melbourne residential markets respectively, the decline in investor activity has impacted price growth,” said Zigomanis.
“More downside is forecast for Sydney as it has had a much greater dependence on investors through the most recent upturn.”
“Similarly, greater downside is expected in the unit market, which is more reliant on the investor market to drive sales and price growth.
"Without the same level of investors and without the same growth in new supply, the detached housing market should hold up better compared to units.”
BIS suggests Brisbane is expected to see the greatest upside to house prices over the next few years due to Queensland's net interstate migration increasing.
Price rises are expected to be modest over the next two years, however BIS see a price growth acceleration in 2021.
Perth and Darwin have bottomed out, and any recovery in prices will be a slow grind.
Excess stock, low population growth and weak economic and employment growth are the biggest drivers, suggests BIS.
They find a similar story in Adelaide, with a subdued economic environment and limited population growth also having a dampening effect on prices.
Hobart and Canberra are expected to continue their strong growth in 2018/19.
The lack of supply in Hobart is continuing to drive their price growth upwards.
Price growth in Canberra began to slow in 2017/18, but BIS expects that, due to the relatively high incomes in the capital, there will be further house price growth over the next two years.
Both markets are expected to decelerate through to 2020/21 as new dwelling supply rises and affordability becomes more strained.
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Zigomanis says that with the banks tightening the screws on investors, the increased restrictions on their borrowing capacity have reduced the likelihood of investors bidding up prices.
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This has caused all markets, with the exception of Hobart, to record a slowdown in price growth performance over 2017/18.
Notably, after experiencing strong gains since 2012/13, house price growth is on track to have recorded a negative number in Sydney and Melbourne through the year.
Both these markets benefited most from booming investor demand, and the tightening credit conditions are now having an impact.
However, the prospect for a major correction will be mitigated by low interest rates and a relatively stable, albeit subdued, economic environment.
Very strong population growth nationally is also underpinning occupancy, which in turn should help investors generate rental income, albeit perhaps at a discounted rate in some cities.
This will prevent excessive forced sales coming to the market to drive down prices.
“Supply is running at record levels, having risen above 200,000 dwelling completions per annum in 2015/16, and expected to stay above this level through to 2018/19,” said Zigomanis.
“Demand has also risen, with population growth expected to exceed 400,000 persons in 2017/18, its highest level since the peak in net overseas migration in 2008/09, although this will still not be sufficient to meet supply.”
 
 
 
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Melbourne house prices forecast to tread water through to 2020/21: BIS

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Melbourne's median house price is set to be largely flat until 2020, while apartment values are likely to decline, according to the latest forecast from BIS Oxford Economics.
BIS have predicted declines in the apartment market, suggesting there are likely to be pockets of oversupply across Melbourne.
They believe unit prices will fall by a total of two percent in the three years to June 2021.
Angie Zigomanis, BIS Oxford Economics senior manager, said the supply is meeting the high population growth.
“Soaring population growth in Victoria is expected to be a key to house prices in Melbourne as investor demand continues to weaken, by supporting owner occupier demand,” said Zigomanis.
“While new dwelling completions are forecast to continue to rise through 2018, as the large pipeline of apartment buildings under construction work their way to completion, supply will be largely met by population growth.”
They have a stronger forecast for the housing market, although expect prices to remain relatively flat.
BIS expect just a one percent per year in the median house price, before an emerging downturn in new dwelling construction results in the city’s deficiency starting to trend upwards by 2020/21, which in turn will see a modest pick up in price growth.
They anticipate a six percent growth in the median house price in the three years to June 2021.
The median house price soared 65 percent over the five years to June 2017, with a further growth of two percent in the six months to December 2017, before a 0.2 percent drop in the first half of 2018.
Population growth and new dwelling supply have been cited as the biggest drivers in the median increase.
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Investors drove the strength of the market in Melbourne, although not to the same extent as in Sydney.
Loans to owner occupiers in Victoria were also at record levels in the year to March 2018, which has helped to offset the weakening investor demand. Consequently, the house prices in Melbourne have held up better in 2017/18 compared to the decline in Sydney.
 
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BIS see greater weakness in Melbourne apartment market

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The latest release from CoreLogic suggests Sydney's auction clearance rate dropped in to the 40 percent bracket last weekend.
Preliminary statistics suggested they achieved a 55.8 percent clearance rate.
Click here <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2018/6/22/cap-final.jpg" target="_blank">to enlarge.</a>
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Brisbane also well below its initial results in to the 30s (below).
Adelaide's strong 72 percent clearance rate dropped two brackets in to the high 50s.
Click here <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2018/6/18/cap-june18.jpg" target="_blank">to enlarge.</a>
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It was small spaces that were the headline at last weekends auctions.
A small one bedder at Kirribilli fetched $1.875 million.
This weekend national auction volume numbers are down considerably, while Victoria has the three busiest suburbs.
Clearance rates continue to nosedive and are reaching levels they haven't dropped to since 2012.
Click here <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2018/6/22/CLEARANCE.jpg" target="_blank">to enlarge.</a>
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Sydney clearance rate dropped into the 40s last weekend

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Auction volume numbers are lower this weekend than last, while all the busiest suburbs are in Victoria.
Reservoir tops the list with 17 homes set to go under the hammer, followed by Glen Waverley with 14 and Craigieburn with 13 auctions scheduled.
Last weekend 2,002 auctions were held. This weekend only 1,736 are scheduled.
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Melbourne is the busiest city for auctions again this week, with 879 auctions being tracked so far, however volumes are expected to be down slightly on last week’s final figures which saw 992 auctions held across the city.
 
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The priciest home to be auctioned in Reservoir this weekend is a four bedroom home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-reservoir-128486638" target="_blank">34 Dawson Street.</a>
It has a guide of $1.15 million to $1.25 million.
 
 
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Lower auction numbers nationally as Reservoir again the busiest suburb

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Sydney's upper North Shore and Hills District has seen a number of strong results over the last 12 months, according to valuation firm Herron Todd White.
"When most people think prestige property their attention is always drawn to the eastern suburbs or lower north shore of Sydney," HTW's latest housing report suggested.
They said that while the wider market has begun to cool, there are still cashed up buyers hunting for prime real estate.
A Dural home fetched $8.8 million last year, a record for the area.
The property at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-dural-124185582" target="_blank">654 Old Northern Road</a> (above) has eight bedrooms and 10 bathrooms.
It sits in over two hectares of landscaped grounds featuring a swimming pool, tennis court and district views. 
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HTW did cite the difficulty to sell property at that price, with it taking over a year to sell.
They said the length of the marketing campaign was not unusual for homes of this calibre.
"It highlights the difficulties in selling property at this price point, because if you have circa $9 million to spend in this area you are able to purchase an older home, knock down and rebuild your home to your preferred design and specifications," the report said.
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"The prestige market can be a little fickle at times due to the limited stock available of high calibre property and the length of time taken finding the right buyer at the right time."
Herron Todd White said they find that the biggest home in the suburb is not always the best.
"What appeals to the north shore market may not appeal to the acreage market," they said.
"Transactions at this level of the market are often dependant on personal preferences, what appeals to one buyer at this end of the market, may not appeal to the next.
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There are always exceptions to the rule, an example includes a property in Wahroonga selling for $7,800,000 in October 2017 after only 11 days on the market.
"This highlights that if a property ticks all of the boxes for the area then they have the ability to get snapped up quite quickly," HTW said.
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The renovated family home (below) with pool and tennis court sits on half an acre of landscaped grounds.
The home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-wahroonga-126632698" target="_blank">3 Stuart Street</a> has with five bedrooms, open plan living and casual meals, separate banquet-sized formal dining, and multiple alfresco areas.
 
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