<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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A Queensland property, set between Brisbane and the Gold Coast, has been sold by mortgagees for $341,000.
The three bedroom house was sold by Glenn Batten from First National Upper Coomera &amp; Yarrabilba earlier this month.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-qld-jacobs+well-127815842" target="_blank">Located at 1134 Pimpama-Jacobs Well Road</a>, Jacobs Well, the house comes with three bedrooms, covered rear entertaining area, and side access. 
Nestled on a 779 square metre block, it is only 600 metres to Jacobs Well Boat Ramp and opposite Riesenweber Park.
It had last sold at $368,000 in 2007.
According to CoreLogic, the suburb's median house price sits on $467,000.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Jacobs Well, Queensland home sold by mortgagee

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EXPERT OBSERVATION
Demand for land in and around Melbourne continues to experience unprecedented demand with the average block being snapped up just 24 days after hitting the market.
The new analysis of land sales rates by Oliver Hume, which measures the period from when land is released for sale by a developer until it is contracted by a purchaser, recorded a slight uptick in the first three months of 2018, but remains at historical lows.
Since late 2012, when land was taking nearly 200 days to sell, the indicator has dropped to around 24 days. The demand for land has seen prices continue to rise, although price growth now appears to be slowing, while lot sizes continue to edge lower.
From the final quarter of 2017 to the March quarter 2018, Melbourne’s key growth area markets saw the median lot price increasing by 4.7% (or $14,000) to reach $314,000.
This occurred while the average size of lots solds continued to decrease in size reaching 400 square metres in the March quarter 2018 (down from 406 square metres in the December quarter 2017).
Click here <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2018/5/22/Melbourne-land.jpg" target="_blank">to enlarge.</a>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/5/22/Melbourne-land.jpg" alt="">
Population growth remains much stronger than previously forecast but affordability constraints were now becoming evident.
Record levels of population growth have placed significant demand pressures on housing and land. Combined with continued low wage growth this is fundamentally changing the nature of the market for new land in Melbourne’s greenfield markets.
More broadly, the significant structural change we continue to see in the economy continues to shape the market. Average lot sizes in metropolitan Melbourne have declined by around third over the last decade while Mebourne’s annual population growth has doubled.
Victoria’s robust employment growth is a factor driving the market more recently but sluggish wage growth continues to play a major underlying role.
Melbourne could well overtake Sydney as Australia’s largest city soon with one estimate suggesting this will occur within the next decade. 
Going forward, Melbourne land sales volumes and activity levels might be driven by the new wave of record infrastructure spending in the pipeline both from the Federal and State Governments.  Major state and city-shaping projects include the North East Link –the biggest transport project in the state’s history and the Metro Tunnel.
George Bougias is the national head of research at Oliver Hume.
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jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

Average Melbourne land tops $300,000 with demand still strong

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The Grounds of Kew in Melbourne will be the first apartment project in Australia to have its own private putting greens.
Each of the four courtyard apartments will have the option to install their own private greens.
The courtyards range in size from 237sqm – 271sqm.
The Beulah International development will feature 20 luxury residences, with prices starting from $1,415,000.
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Award-winning landscaper Paul Bangay has drawn inspiration from the grand estates and gardens of Kew to create a private playground for each ground floor residence.
Beulah International general sales manager Jamie Baldwin said Kew is home to one of Melbourne’s oldest established golf clubs, which has 1,300 playing members.
“This is a fantastic and rare opportunity for residents, as they can practise their putting skills before playing down at the local club,” he said. 
Beulah has partnered with Australian professional golfer and PGA Member Craig Spence, who has provided guidance on how to achieve the best possible private putting green experience in the residences, and will host a putting masterclass at the display suite next month. 
Spence has played 14 years on world tours including a US PGA tour and Europe and won the 1999 Australian Masters. 
Spence said having access to a personal practice putting green is a dream opportunity. 
“So much so, that even Tour Professionals in the US are putting in private putting greens,” he said. 
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Beulah International executive director Adelene Teh said Beulah’s vision is to deliver the first project in Kew amongst the Sackville Ward community, with multiple four-bedroom, 4-garage apartment homes. 
“Kew is one of the most prestigious addresses in Melbourne and is an untapped market when it comes to hyper-luxury, modern developments,” she said. 
Drawing inspiration from Sackville Ward’s grand mansions and Federation Architecture, The Grounds will only be four levels high. 
Featuring a range of two, three and four-bedroom single level residences, The Grounds of Kew will be priced from $1.415 million to $4.920 million, with apartments ranging in size from 106sqm – 296sqm internally with additional outdoor space. 
Two lavish penthouses will sit atop The Grounds, accessed by a private lift.
 
For more information <a href="http://www.thegroundsofkew.com.au" target="_blank">click here.</a>
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Courtyard apartments in new Kew development with very own putting green

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The NSW Government's sell off of historic Millers Point properties continues, with three more fetching just over $20 million at a recent auction.
The sell off began in August 2014, which has now seen 153 properties sold for a total over $483 million.
The latest properties sold were on High Street at Millers Point.
The priciest was a block of eight Federation-style two bedroom units at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-unitblock-nsw-millers+point-128105306" target="_blank">22-28A High Street</a> (above) which sold for $9.6 million.
Another block of four Federation-style units down the road at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-other-nsw-millers+point-502778814" target="_blank">18-20A High Street</a> (below) sold for $5,106,000 on the night.
The third block of four three bedroom units at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-unitblock-nsw-millers+point-128116818" target="_blank">5-7 High Street</a> sold for $5,605,000 through Sydney Sotheby's.
<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/2018/5/22/HIGH-STREET-MILLERS.jpg" alt="">
McGrath handled the sales of the other two properties.
There were a total of nine registered bidders across both properties.
Agent Andrew Stewart said similar blocks in High Street and its surrounds have now been restored and are achieving solid investment returns.
“The rental market in Millers Point continues to strengthen as more people become aware of the suburb and what it offers," Stewart noted.
"While in the past the suburb was predominately social housing, it’s now evolving into one of Sydney’s most sought after residential destinations with a mix of owner occupiers and rental properties.”
McGrath agent Peter Starr said that long term investors recognised that the Millers Point precinct offered substantial medium to long term capital gain opportunity, with the pool of potential tenants from Barangaroo (30,000 when complete) a significant drawcard.
 
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Latest Millers Point offerings fetch over $20 million

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A four bedroom house over 5 acres in Esk, a suburb in the South East Queensland, has been listed for sale at $299,000 by the mortgagees.
It is presented by Jocelyn Frost from LJ Hooker. It last sold at $234,000 in 2005.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-esk-128256590" target="_blank">Situated at 42 Aspen Drive</a>, the 1980s house comes with four good size bedrooms, open plan living/kitchen/dining, upstairs verandah and double garage space.
It is only 10 minutes from the shopping precinct of Esk, and 30 minutes from Gatton.
The suburb's median house price is $280,000, according to CoreLogic. 
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Esk, Queensland house listed by mortgagee

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Set on approximately 860 sqm land, a 1970s north-west Geelong house has been listed by mortgagees with an indicative selling price of $415,000.
It was listed by Brad Archer from Burns Archer Realty.
The Lara auction has been scheduled for June 16.
It sold at $200,000 in 2005.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-lara-128381554" target="_blank">Located at 19 Ponds Drive</a>, the home comes with three bedrooms, lounge, and kitchen with adjacent meals area. 
It is only a short stroll to the Kevin Hoffman Walk and its surrounding parklands with all other amenities.
The suburb's median house price sits on <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-lara-128381554" target="_blank">$445,000</a>, according to CoreLogic. 
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Lara three bedroom house listed by mortgagee

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All of the busiest suburbs for auctions on the weekend were in Victoria. Reservoir topped the list with 19 homes set to go under the hammer, followed by Bentleigh East and Mount Waverley with 14 auctions each.
A Reservoir four bedroom house with hopes for over $1 million (above) sold for $1.26 million.
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<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-reservoir-128199090" target="_blank">Located at 29 Queen St</a>, Reservoir, the house with city skyline with comes with four generous bedrooms, formal lounge, kitchen/meals with stainless steel cooker and adjoining living room.
Other features include gas heating and ducted evaporative cooling, wood heater (living room), high ceilings, laundry, and large storeroom/kitchenette.
It is within walking distance to buses, Regent Station and Plenty Road trams, local cafes and parks, and Preston Primary School. 
There was a higher sale at $1,332,000 according to the REIV.
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<td>2 Ashton St, RESERVOIR</td>
<td>2</td>
<td><img src="https://reiv.com.au/REIV/propertyimages/prices/19d3ef48.jpg"></td>
<td>House (Res)</td>
<td>Passed in at Auction</td>
<td>19/05/2018</td>
<td>Barry Plant</td>
<td> </td>
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<td>36 Callander St, RESERVOIR</td>
<td>3</td>
<td><img src="https://reiv.com.au/REIV/propertyimages/prices/560a5051.jpg"></td>
<td>House (Res)</td>
<td>Passed in at Auction</td>
<td>19/05/2018</td>
<td>Ray White</td>
<td> </td>
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<td>2/15 Cheddar Rd, RESERVOIR</td>
<td>2</td>
<td><img src="https://reiv.com.au/REIV/propertyimages/prices/259295.jpg"></td>
<td>Unit</td>
<td>Auction Sale</td>
<td>19/05/2018</td>
<td>Ray White</td>
<td> </td>
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<td>30 Dawson St, RESERVOIR</td>
<td>5</td>
<td><img src="https://reiv.com.au/REIV/propertyimages/prices/9f6c6038.jpg"></td>
<td>House (Res)</td>
<td>Auction Sale</td>
<td>19/05/2018</td>
<td>Ray White</td>
<td> </td>
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<td>23 Kia Ora Rd, RESERVOIR</td>
<td>3</td>
<td><img src="https://reiv.com.au/REIV/propertyimages/prices/ab4503cd.jpg"></td>
<td>House (Res)</td>
<td>Auction Sale</td>
<td>19/05/2018</td>
<td>Nelson Alexander</td>
<td> </td>
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<td>21 Lloyd Av, RESERVOIR</td>
<td>3</td>
<td><img src="https://reiv.com.au/REIV/propertyimages/prices/19d3ef48.jpg"></td>
<td>House (Res)</td>
<td>Passed in at Auction</td>
<td>19/05/2018</td>
<td>Nelson Alexander</td>
<td> </td>
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<td>2/6 Mccrae St, RESERVOIR</td>
<td>2</td>
<td><img src="https://reiv.com.au/REIV/propertyimages/prices/953d8ea5.jpg"></td>
<td>Unit</td>
<td>Auction Sale</td>
<td>19/05/2018</td>
<td>Barry Plant</td>
<td> </td>
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<td>27 Moira Av, RESERVOIR</td>
<td>4</td>
<td><img src="https://reiv.com.au/REIV/propertyimages/prices/c492629f.jpg"></td>
<td>House (Res)</td>
<td>Passed in Vendor Bid</td>
<td>19/05/2018</td>
<td>Nelson Alexander</td>
<td> </td>
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<td>791 Plenty Rd, RESERVOIR</td>
<td>3</td>
<td><img src="https://reiv.com.au/REIV/propertyimages/prices/ddd9262b.jpg"></td>
<td>House (Res)</td>
<td>Auction Sale</td>
<td>19/05/2018</td>
<td>Love &amp; Co</td>
<td> </td>
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<td>3/90 Purinuan Rd, RESERVOIR</td>
<td>2</td>
<td><img src="https://reiv.com.au/REIV/propertyimages/prices/5e91fe25.jpg"></td>
<td>Unit</td>
<td>Auction Sale</td>
<td>19/05/2018</td>
<td>Ray White</td>
<td> </td>
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<td>29 Queen St, RESERVOIR</td>
<td>4</td>
<td><img src="https://reiv.com.au/REIV/propertyimages/prices/9e344320.jpg"></td>
<td>House (Res)</td>
<td>Auction Sale</td>
<td>19/05/2018</td>
<td>Nelson Alexander</td>
<td> </td>
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<td>2/214 Spring St, RESERVOIR</td>
<td>2</td>
<td><img src="https://reiv.com.au/REIV/propertyimages/prices/d6f4f25d.jpg"></td>
<td>Unit</td>
<td>Passed in at Auction</td>
<td>19/05/2018</td>
<td>Stockdale &amp; Leggo Reservoir</td>
<td> </td>
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<td>47 Wattle Gr, RESERVOIR</td>
<td>3</td>
<td><img src="https://reiv.com.au/REIV/propertyimages/prices/ceac3eb8.jpg"></td>
<td>House (Res)</td>
<td>Auction Sale</td>
<td>19/05/2018</td>
<td>LJ Hooker South Morang</td>
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A clearance rate of 64 per cent was recorded on the weekend compared to 63 per cent last weekend and 80 per cent this weekend last year. 
There were 798 auctions reported to the REIV, with 512 selling and 286 being passed in, 153 of those on a vendor bid.
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Reservoir weekend auctions top out at $1,332,000

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There were 669 auctions held in Sydney returning a preliminary auction clearance rate of 60.8 per cent, according to CoreLogic,compared to 57.5 per cent across 787 last week, and 74 per cent across 1,075 auctions one year ago.
Sydney's top sale was $4.86 million in Fairlight. The <a id="LPlnk188840" class="x_OWAAutoLink" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-nsw-fairlight-128147582" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">58/1 Lauderdale Avenue apartment offering</a> (above) through Stone Real Estate agent Adam Moore was for the first time since construction three decades ago.
The four bedroom, four bathroom penthouse came with 436 sqm space. The price guide for the harbourfont home was $4 million to $4.4 million.
It last sold at $735,000 in 1987.
There were 2,089 homes taken to auction nationally across the combined capital cities, returning a preliminary auction clearance rate of 60.3 per cent.
Click here <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2018/5/21/capitals_may21.jpg" target="_blank">to enlarge.</a>
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2018/5/21/capitals_may21.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/5/21/capitals_may21.jpg" alt=""></a>
Last week, 2,279 auctions were held and the final clearance rate dropped to 58.2 per cent, the lowest clearance rate seen since December 2015.
Over the same week last year, auction volumes were higher with 2,824 homes going under the hammer across the combined capital cities, returning a clearance rate of 73.1 per cent.
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In Melbourne, Australia’s largest auctionmarket, a preliminary auction clearance rate of 64.2 per cent was recorded across 1,028 auctions this weekend, up from 59.8 per cent across 1,099 auctions last week, the lowest clearance rate the city has seen since Easter 2014.
One year ago, the clearance rate was a stronger 77.9 per cent across 1,326 auctions..
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Melbourne's top sale was in Malvern East.
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Kilburn, the five bedroom, four bathroom home on 920 sqm at <a id="LPlnk440955" class="x_OWAAutoLink" href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/real-estate/56-kerferd-street-malvern-east-vic/property-details-buy-residential-11799951/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">56 Kerferd Street</a> (below), fetched $6.11 million through Thomson agent John Chartres.
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It was marketed as showcasing "a remarkable sense of refined luxury throughout three brilliantly conceived levels."
Its price guidance was $5.5 million to $6.05 million, with it announced on the market at $6.025 million.
There were two bidders.
It last sold in 2003 at $1,375,000.
Melbourne's cheapest sale was a retirement villa at Frankston. The <a id="LPlnk878112" class="x_OWAAutoLink" href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/real-estate/10-4-6-foot-street-frankston-vic/property-details-buy-residential-11805063/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">10/4-6 Foot Street offering</a> (below) fetched $288,000. There had been $275,000 to $300,000 price guidance on the late 1990s two bedroom single storey unit. It last sold at $169,000 in 2007.
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Across the smaller auction markets, preliminary results show that Canberra was again the best performing with a 66.2 per cent success rate across 79 auctions.
Its top seller was at Red Hill where $1.58 million was paid for <a id="LPlnk558662" class="x_OWAAutoLink" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-act-red+hill-128155210" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">3 Golden Grove</a>, an early 1960s four bedroom, two bathroom brick home. It was offered for the first time in over 50 years.
The nation's cheapest auction result was $273,000 through Ray White for 17 Ashvale Street, Kingston, a three bedroom Brisbane home needing a renovation situated on a flat 607 sqm parcel.
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It last sold at $259,000 in 2016 and at $230,000 in 2013.
Brisbane's top sale was at Paddington. It was an unrenovated 1912 Queenslander on 1000 sqm that sold through Place agent Andrew Degn who the Courier Mail advised had eight buyers register to bid on <a id="LPlnk56250" class="x_OWAAutoLink" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-paddington-128163226" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">77 Tooth Avenue, Paddington</a>. It sold for $1.92 million, having been in the family for over 100 years. 
There was also a newly renovated 1930s Queenslander at <a id="LPlnk670208" class="x_OWAAutoLink" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-bardon-128213294" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">25 Runic Street</a> that fetched $1.75 million through Degn.
It last traded at $625,000 in 2011.
There was a $2.6 million sale at Hollywell on the Gold Coast when a deceased estate went to auction.
"This property was handpicked from the initial subdivision plans 40 years ago," the marketing for <a id="LPlnk563326" class="x_OWAAutoLink" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-hollywell-128092498" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">2 Sapphire Street</a> advised.
It came with 1058 sqm Broadwater frontage.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Fairlight penthouse tops Sydney weekend auction results

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Sydney buyers are certainly spoilt for choice, but there are emerging signs the listings surge of the past year is waning.
There are 27,000 properties currently for sale by private treaty across the Sydney market.
That's a lot on offer, indeed around 25% more than last May, according to CoreLogic.
Interestingly the 7,000 fresh listings in the past month sits 10% down on the same time last year.
That suggests the last ditch rush to sell is slowing after Sydney's cooling conditions have grabbed the headlines and ebbed into realistic conversations. 
There ought be an increased realisation among prospective vendors that the chance to cash in at peak prices has likely passed.
Vendor expectations are increasingly not being met, except for premium listings across the suburbs. A-grade stock is still selling well, through private treaty and at or before auction.  
Many of the 27,000 current private treaty offerings will not be sold this time around because their vendor missed the market peak that they hoped to capitalise on.
They might linger on websites and in estate agent windows, but pointlessly if they aren't repriced to sell in the current and emerging market.
These listings will hang around making up the estate agent's expansive inventory as we head into the winter hibernation.
Stale listings are much harder to sell since the keenest knowledgable buyers have typically moved on after their initial marketing. 
These stale listings ideally need to be withdrawn to try another time.
Meanwhile the number of sales has eased according to official NSW Office of State Revenue data. 
In March there were 16,950 property transfers, the quietest for four years as buyers become pickier, taking their time without the fear of missing out.
Last March, which didn't have the Easter interruption until mid-April, had 19,500 transfers. The March stamp duty revenue for the state government was $642 million compared to $701 million.
There were 49,000 sales in the first three months of 2018, compared to 52,000 early last year, with the soon to be advised April tally to help the state government shape its upcoming budget.
If these early readings become a marked trend, there won't be anywhere near as much revenue available for the government to spend.
The discussion about the listings and sales in the market is premised that there is choice for all participants.
Certainly arrears and mortgagee sales are at low levels.
The elephant in the room is bank lending which has increasingly restrained buyer capacity.
Just this week the Reserve Bank of Australia deputy governor Guy Debelle indicated there was a "risk" of even further tightening in lending standards ahead.
"This may have its largest effect on the amount of funds an individual household can borrow, more than the effect on the number of households that are eligible for a loan," he noted while adding that has implications for house prices."
This article first appeared in The Daily Telegraph. 
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Sydney listings look like they're on the wane

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First home buyers are delaying or missing the opportunity to get into the property market by not engaging a guarantor on their home loan, new data shows.  According to Mortgage Choice and CoreData’s Evolving Great Australian Dream 2018 whitepaper, just 4.9% of all first home buyers said they used a guarantor to purchase their property.  However, bucking the trend are home buyers aged 29 years and below, of which 21.8% had someone go guarantor on their mortgage. 
Mortgage Choice CEO Susan Mitchell said the data raises the question that many are divided on.
"Are first home buyers missing an opportunity to get into the property market by not engaging a guarantor?”
Currently, the average first-time buyer needs to put down approximately $100,000 in deposit to secure a property with the median dwelling value of $554,605.  “For many first-time buyers, the biggest hurdle they face is saving a sufficient deposit that amounts to 20% of the purchase price, and this has been made even harder by strong property price growth over recent years,” Ms Mitchell said.  The whitepaper found that 40% of buyers would need some form of assistance to enter the property market, as they had just 15% or less of the required deposit for a property. “The Government’s new plan to allow older Australians to stay in their homes for longer, as part of the ‘More Choice Longer Life Plan’ is likely to hinder the supply of available properties to those looking to buy their first home.," Ms Mitchell said. A variety of factors is making it increasingly difficult for people to achieve the traditional Australian dream, say 86.4% of people asked by Mortgage Choice. “One way first home buyers can get a leg up onto the property ladder is to access intergenerational wealth, created by the boom in the property market, and ask a parent to be a guarantor by offering their own home as extra security,” Ms Mitchell said.  “This strategy lets them get onto the property ladder sooner rather than later, and with a smaller deposit and has the added advantage of avoiding Lenders’ Mortgage Insurance, which can total thousands of dollars for cash-strapped first home buyers.”  The whitepaper research revealed that on a whole, 15.2% of prospective home buyers across Australia would have someone go guarantor on their loan. This figure dropped to 12.6% for females.  On a state by state comparison, Western Australia had the highest proportion of prospective buyers saying that they would have a guarantor on their mortgage, at 16.5%. They were followed by New South Wales at 13.9% and Victoria at 13.3%.  Of those who purchased with a guarantor, 77.2% said their  parents were their guarantor.  Ms Mitchell said it was important for buyers and their prospective guarantor to weigh up the pros and cons before making a decision.  “Having a family member go guarantor on a mortgage is not without risk and as such, no one should jump into the situation until they’ve given it considerable thought,” she said.  “If the first home buyer defaults on their home loan, the guarantor becomes responsible for paying their debt. This can be a significant financial impost for the guarantor as it can affect their ability to cope with their own day to day costs, which in turns compromises their financial wellbeing.  “Their own ability to borrow money will also be reduced after they agree to become a guarantor.  “As a result, it is very important for both the buyer and the guarantor to set clear expectations from the outset and think carefully about their future plans.  “If a buyer has a guarantor on a home loan, it is essential they speak with a qualified mortgage broker and a solicitor to protect both parties. A contract can be drawn up that clearly explains how the loan will be structured and what happens in the event that the borrower defaults on their loan. “It is helpful to note that a guarantor is not tied to the loan for its entire duration. Once a buyer has built up sufficient equity in their property, a guarantor can apply to be released from the loan, though this may incur a fee.  “Lastly, buyers should always look at their other options as a guarantor is not the only way that someone can purchase a property. A buyer can receive a one-off financial gift to help cover part or all of the cost of the deposit, which reduces the risk to a potential guarantor,” concluded Ms Mitchell.  
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