The Gold Coast economy has grown by 25 per cent since 2020/21 to surpass $55 billion, but perhaps the more significant story is what sits behind the headline number.

For decades, the Gold Coast has been viewed through the lens of tourism, lifestyle and population growth. The latest State of the City Report suggests that perception is increasingly out of step with reality.

Released by Invest Gold Coast, the report ranks the Gold Coast as Australia's largest non-capital city economy and, perhaps more notably, second nationally behind Sydney for Economic Complexity, a measure that assesses the diversity and sophistication of an economy.

It's a result that places the Gold Coast ahead of Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide, highlighting the extent to which the city's economic base has broadened beyond its traditional industries.

Today, the Gold Coast supports more than 350,000 jobs, is home to over 83,000 businesses and generates $19 billion in annual exports. Manufacturing now accounts for 62 per cent of international export growth, while sectors including health, education, advanced manufacturing, technology and professional services are becoming increasingly important contributors to the local economy.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=372547]

Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate said the report confirmed the city's evolution into one of Australia's most significant economies.

"The Gold Coast economy continues to grow at an incredible pace. This is no surprise to those of us who have watched the evolution up close," Mayor Tate said.

"As one of the most entrepreneurial, investment driven and opportunity focused economies in the country our ambition has been realised and possibilities are endless.

"The Gold Coast has built a reputation as the city that says yes. We say yes to investment, yes to opportunity and yes to people who want to build something.

"It's this mindset helping us drive major growth across health, advanced manufacturing, screen production, marine, technology and the knowledge economy."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149670 project_image_fid=360975]

While population growth has been one of the defining stories of the past decade, the report points to a broader economic transformation taking place.

The city's knowledge economy now contributes $7.9 billion annually and supports around 31,000 jobs, while the health and wellbeing sector contributes $5.2 billion and employs more than 42,000 people. Together, the six priority sectors identified in the report account for almost $24 billion in economic output and more than 145,000 jobs.

One of the strongest examples is the Gold Coast Health and Knowledge Precinct at Southport. The 200-hectare precinct now contains more than $5 billion worth of health, education, research and innovation infrastructure and supports over 16,000 jobs.

The report also highlights the growing role of advanced manufacturing, particularly in aerospace, defence and modular construction.

Gold Coast-based Gilmour Space Technologies recently became the first Australian commercial company to attempt an orbital launch, while companies including Modscape and ModnPods are helping establish the Yatala-Stapylton corridor as one of Australia's fastest-growing advanced manufacturing hubs.

The city's entrepreneurial culture is also translating into business growth.

Since 2019/20, the number of businesses operating on the Gold Coast has increased by 22 per cent, while firms employing more than 200 people have grown by 80 per cent. The report suggests the next challenge is converting more local start-ups and medium-sized businesses into nationally significant companies.

Development activity remains another key indicator of confidence.

There are currently more than $23 billion worth of major projects underway across the Gold Coast, supported by a record 75 active cranes, a figure that now exceeds Brisbane and represents a 150 per cent increase since 2016.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112024 project_image_fid=343235]

Importantly, the report notes the next phase of investment will need to extend beyond residential development.

While 93 per cent of crane activity is currently tied to housing, Invest Gold Coast argues future investment will increasingly need to focus on cultural, civic, infrastructure and industry-enabling projects that strengthen the city's long-term economic resilience.

Invest Gold Coast Chair Will Hodgman said the city was now benefiting from years of economic diversification.

"What is happening on the Gold Coast is the result of the city's economic base broadening, fuelled by industries with long-term, high-growth potential," Mr Hodgman said.

"This is no longer a secondary Australian economy, the Gold Coast is becoming a globally connected city with deeper capability across health, knowledge and creative industries, advanced manufacturing, technology and exports."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365786]

Looking ahead, the Gold Coast's population is projected to exceed one million residents by 2046.

For a city that was once largely defined by tourism and lifestyle, the latest figures suggest the Gold Coast is becoming something more significant, one of Australia's most diverse and economically sophisticated urban economies, and increasingly one that national and international investors can no longer afford to overlook.

Joel Robinson

75 cranes, $23 billion pipeline and a $55 billion economy: Inside the Gold Coast economic boom

Ron Bakir's Homecorp has sold more than 75 per cent of the apartments in its wellness-driven Florence Residences in Surfers Paradise following its first weekend release.

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/florence-residences-24-monte-carlo-avenue-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">26-storey project on Monte Carlo Avenue</a>, which commenced construction earlier this year, has seen a flurry of buyers secure their slice of the Gold Coast's latest wellbeing-focused offering in one of the nation's most competitive property markets.

Since the pandemic, the Gold Coast's population has grown by more than 11 per cent, a rate approximately four times faster than Sydney's, driven largely by lifestyle changes and interstate migration. While buyer activity has moderated in some markets nationally, demand for newly built dwellings on the Gold Coast continues to gain momentum as purchasers increasingly prioritise lifestyle, amenity, wellbeing, liveability and long-term investment potential.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150414 project_image_fid=372743]

Homecorp CEO Ron Bakir says buyers today are looking for more than just a home.

"What we are seeing is a shift in how people define value in property," Bakir says.

"What attracts residents to new developments is a desire for more than just a residence. They are looking for a place that complements their lifestyle, supports their wellbeing and reflects the way they want to live into the future.

"Lifestyle, longevity, proactive health, wellbeing, connection and a sense of community are increasingly shaping purchasing decisions, particularly on the Gold Coast, where these factors continue to be a major drawcard."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150414 project_image_fid=372744]

Bakir says Homecorp is responding to this shift through an approach that places greater emphasis on design, amenity and experience working together to create places that feel considered, connected and enduring in value.

Inspired by Eastern European design, Florence Residences will comprise 120 apartments alongside a private residents-only wellness club featuring a resort-style rooftop pool, hot and cold plunge pools, a spa retreat, contemporary gymnasium, and a spacious yoga and Pilates studio.

The development will also feature a residents-only lounge with private dining facilities and a rooftop bar, premium outdoor entertaining areas, a hotel-style lobby lounge, generous bike parking, and pet-friendly amenities including a heated dog wash.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150414 project_image_fid=372742]

A limited number of apartments remain available, with an exclusive collection of four-bedroom sub-penthouses set to be released in the coming months.

Florence is one of the latest additions to Homecorp's expanding multi-billion-dollar property portfolio, which also includes plans for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/homecorp-lodges-plans-for-260-million-moroccan-bathhouse-inspired-tower-in-budds-beach">$260 million development in Budds Beach</a> tailored to the growing wellness market.

A development application has been lodged for a 27-storey, 156-residence tower at 8–10 Acacia Avenue and 25–27 Oak Avenue, featuring a residents-only Moroccan spa-inspired sanctuary.

Apartments at Florence Residences are priced from $1,249,000, with construction expected to be completed by late 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150414]

Buyers rush to Homecorp's Florence Residences as Gold Coast wellness trend gains momentum

The NSW Government has expanded its $1 billion Pre-sale Finance Guarantee program, broadening access for affordable housing providers and smaller residential developments as it seeks to accelerate housing delivery across the state.

The Minns Government says the program has already helped bring forward more than 600 homes across Sydney and regional NSW since launching in September 2025, with similar models now adopted in South Australia and Western Australia.

The latest changes, announced by Treasurer Daniel Mookhey and Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully, are designed to improve access to finance for projects that have planning approval but are struggling to secure funding.

Among the key changes is an expansion of support for community housing providers. The program will now support up to 100 per cent affordable housing projects valued at up to $30 million when delivered by not-for-profit providers, while support for larger affordable housing developments will increase for projects worth up to $80 million.

The government says the changes will help accelerate the delivery of housing for low-income workers, older people, people living with disability, and those at risk of homelessness, while reducing reliance on direct grants or subsidised loans to bridge funding gaps.

The eligibility criteria for smaller residential developments have also been broadened. The previous $5 million minimum project value threshold has been removed and replaced with a requirement that projects deliver at least four homes.

Support has also increased for projects delivering fewer than 20 homes, with the guarantee now able to cover up to 75 per cent of dwellings in a development, capped at $30 million per project.

The changes are expected to particularly benefit smaller-scale and regional developments, which often face greater challenges meeting pre-sale requirements imposed by lenders.

Treasurer Daniel Mookhey said the scheme demonstrates how government can use its balance sheet to stimulate housing supply without relying solely on taxpayer-funded grants.

"The Pre-sale Finance Guarantee shows how this Government is using its balance sheet to reduce risk and unlock private investment, enabling new homes to move from design to construction faster," Mookhey said.

"This landmark reform allows us to deliver homes for working families at a lower cost to taxpayers, while also maintaining strong financial discipline."

Planning Minister Paul Scully said the program had already proven effective in bringing stalled projects to market.

"The Pre-sale Finance Guarantee has already proven it can unlock stalled projects and accelerate housing delivery by giving lenders the confidence they need to back good developments," Scully said.

"These changes will allow more affordable housing and smaller developments to access support so more homes can be built faster where communities need them most."

Housing Minister Rose Jackson said the expansion would help community housing providers overcome financing barriers that often delay projects.

"We know community housing providers are ready to build more homes, too often they're held back by barriers to finance," Jackson said.

"Expanding the Pre-sale Finance Guarantee helps remove those barriers so more affordable homes can get off the ground sooner."

The announcement was welcomed by the Property Council of Australia, which has long advocated for measures aimed at improving project feasibility and access to finance.

Property Council NSW Executive Director Katie Stevenson described the expansion as a practical intervention that addresses one of the most immediate constraints on housing delivery.

"This is exactly the kind of practical intervention we need right now, focused on getting projects out of the ground, not just approved," Stevenson said.

"It builds on a model the Property Council has worked closely with government to develop following calls for such a scheme ahead of last year's NSW Budget, so it's great to see it being expanded."

Stevenson said the reforms would help unlock projects that are ready to proceed but have been delayed by financing challenges. However, she noted that broader feasibility issues remain a significant barrier to increasing housing supply.

"The biggest challenge in NSW housing today is delivery. Too many projects have planning approval but are simply not financially viable to proceed under current settings," she said.

Speaking at the Property Council's NSW Housing Summit, Housing Minister Rose Jackson acknowledged that feasibility and financing pressures continue to constrain housing delivery, while reaffirming the government's commitment to work with industry on solutions.

Stevenson said the government's recognition of those challenges was encouraging ahead of next week's state budget.

"It's positive to see the government clearly recognising that feasibility pressures are now a binding constraint on supply," she said.

"With the Budget just days away, the focus must be on backing delivery, making sure projects stack up, finance can flow, and more homes can move from approval to construction."

The expanded Pre-sale Finance Guarantee forms part of the NSW Government's broader housing agenda, which also includes planning reforms, the NSW Housing Pattern Book, and a series of rezonings intended to increase housing capacity across the state.

NSW expands Pre-sale Finance Guarantee to unlock more affordable and regional housing

Design-led developer-builder Lowe Living has unveiled its latest residential development, Jardin House, marking its first foray into Melbourne's blue-chip City of Boroondara.

Located a short walk from Camberwell Junction, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/jardin-house-by-lowe-living-camberwell-335-camberwell-road-camberwell-vic-3124">Jardin House</a> has been designed to appeal to affluent local downsizers and established families seeking a low-maintenance alternative to the large homes that have long defined Camberwell and surrounding suburbs.

The project will comprise a collection of two and three-bedroom apartments ranging from 92 sqm to 280 sqm, alongside a limited number of penthouse residences featuring rooftop terraces spanning more than 100 sqm, with optional private pools.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146717 project_image_fid=372212]

Lowe Living Co-Founder and Managing Director Tim Lowe said Camberwell represented a natural next step for the developer as it expands into some of Melbourne's most tightly held residential markets.

"Jardin House is an important project for our team as it marks the next evolution of our portfolio into different well-established blue-chip pockets of Melbourne," Lowe said.

"Camberwell, with its incredible walkability, family-led neighbourhood feel and superb access to education and transport, makes it a natural choice for us."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146717 project_image_fid=372227]

Designed by Tristan Wong Architects, with interiors by Hecker Guthrie and landscaping by Acre, the development takes inspiration from the Art Deco architecture that remains a defining feature of many of Camberwell's established streets.

A curved facade, arched openings, textured brickwork and sculpted forms reference the suburb's architectural heritage, while extensive landscaping softens the building's presence and creates a strong connection to the surrounding tree-lined streetscape.

The project will be set behind a secure gated entrance, with residents arriving through landscaped gardens designed to create a transition between the public realm and private residences.

Inside, the residences feature natural stone and timber finishes, full-height glazing, Miele appliances and generous open-plan living areas designed for long-term owner occupation.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146717 project_image_fid=372225]

While the apartments themselves have been designed to attract discerning owner-occupiers, it is the amenity offering that sets Jardin House apart from many other boutique projects currently launching across Melbourne.

The centrepiece is a 350 sqm private bathhouse curated in partnership with Aurora Spa &amp; Bathhouse founder Lyndall Mitchell.

The wellness precinct includes mineral pools, hydrotherapy experiences, a Himalayan salt room, sauna, steam room, cold plunge pools and dedicated relaxation spaces, creating what Lowe Living describes as a private wellness retreat exclusively for residents.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146717 project_image_fid=372222]

The collaboration follows Lowe Living's recent partnership with Aurora at Maison Savoy in Brighton, although Jardin House is the first project to incorporate both indoor and outdoor wellness experiences.

Emma Lowe, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Lowe Living, said wellness was becoming an increasingly important consideration for apartment buyers.

"Collaborating with Lyndall Mitchell from Aurora Spa &amp; Bathhouse for a second time is an intentional nod to creating residences that are more than just homes, but a way to enrich the lives of our residents through wellness and longevity," Lowe said.

The amenity offering is complemented by a Technogym fitness studio, residents' lounge, private dining spaces and concierge services.

The launch comes as developers increasingly target Melbourne's established eastern suburbs, where rising land values, ageing housing stock and growing downsizer demand are creating opportunities for boutique apartment projects.

Lowe said the company expects significant generational wealth transfer across suburbs such as Camberwell in coming years, creating further demand for luxury apartment living.

"Camberwell is a blue-chip suburb where homes regularly transact for multiple millions of dollars," he said.

"The generational change of wealth in these locations expected in the coming years is significant, so we see an opportunity to create exclusive residences that appeal to older families and downsizers in order to meet this demand."

Apartments at Jardin house start from $1,195,000. The project forms part of Lowe Living's near-$1 billion portfolio of new developments across Melbourne.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=146717]

Lowe Living launches Jardin House in Camberwell

As <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/north-sydney-nsw-2060">North Sydney</a> continues its transition from a commercial centre into a more layered residential and lifestyle precinct, a new generation of apartment developments is reshaping expectations around scale, amenity, and long-term liveability.

Improved transport connections through the Victoria Cross Metro, continued investment in dining and public spaces, and a constrained supply of new luxury apartments have sharpened demand for homes that combine proximity to the CBD with the privacy and outlook traditionally associated with harbourside houses.

At 177 Walker Street, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/aland">ALAND</a>’s new apartment development <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-walden-north-sydney-177-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">The Walden</a> enters the market with a distinctly residential approach to high-rise living. The 30-level tower will deliver 161 residences, ranging from one-bedroom apartments through to sub-penthouses and a full-floor penthouse, all oriented to capture uninterrupted views across Sydney Harbour, the Opera House, and out toward the Pacific Ocean.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=6395]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>, the project takes advantage of the site’s natural topography and elevated position above the harbour. Rather than relying on density alone, the architecture focuses on outlook, orientation, and spatial flow, with every apartment occupying a corner position to maximise natural light and cross ventilation.

Rothelowman says the site itself shaped much of the architectural response.

“The site has a long history in terms of its inevitable transformation and when we came in, we took inspiration from the idea of reestablishing a sense of the site’s natural terrain and fall. Our scheme aims to integrate with the terrain and the landscape, using the undulating site to slowly reveal glimpses and views of the harbour. The rotation of the tower off grid means every apartment has a view and is naturally cross ventilated. The building's colour palette is quintessentially Sydney, with bronze and sandstone and a luminescent green colour in the glass, making it very earthy and grounded in its location.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=6399]

Inside the residences, the emphasis moves toward larger-format living typically associated with standalone homes. Kitchens sit at the centre of the apartments, connecting directly to open-plan dining and living areas before extending outward into expansive winter gardens and balconies. Calacatta marble, bespoke joinery, integrated appliances, and custom metal detailing are used throughout, while three distinct interior palettes, Terrace, Opera, and Harbour, allow buyers to personalise the spaces without compromising the architectural consistency of the project.

The larger residences place particular attention on separation between entertaining and private zones. In many apartments, master suites occupy the outer corners of the floorplates, allowing bedrooms to benefit from floor-to-ceiling glazing and harbour outlooks independent of the living spaces. Dressing rooms and ensuites continue the material palette through fluted detailing, freestanding baths, and layered stone finishes.

Rothelowman says the design intent centred on creating homes that feel enduring rather than transient.

“Our philosophy is all about the way people live in these spaces, and we wanted to create homes that reflect the quality of life in this unique Sydney location. The apartments showcase expansive living spaces that are generous, sophisticated, and bold, with the ability to connect with views throughout each apartment.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=353235]

A separate four-storey amenity building known as The Pavilion expands the residential offering beyond the apartments themselves. Positioned alongside the tower, the building consolidates wellness, recreation, and social spaces into a dedicated resident retreat. Facilities include a 20-metre rooftop pool and sundeck, sauna, spa, ice bath, wellness studio, gymnasium, concierge service, wine cellar, residents’ lounge, private dining spaces, and dedicated co-working areas with meeting rooms and boardroom facilities.

The amenity mix reflects the buyer profile emerging in North Sydney, where owner-occupiers and downsizers are increasingly prioritising convenience, apartment scale, and long-term usability over purely investment-driven decisions.

The Walden also represents a significant milestone for ALAND, marking the company’s first major move into Sydney’s inner-city luxury apartment market after more than two decades delivering large-scale residential communities across Greater Sydney. Founder Andrew Hrsto says the Walker Street site stood apart because of both its positioning and its rarity.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=6390]

“As a company, we had been searching for a site in one of Sydney’s blue-chip locations, spanning the Eastern Suburbs, the Sydney CBD and the North Shore, and when we had the opportunity to purchase this site, we immediately recognised that it could be something iconic.”

At launch, The Walden recorded more than $103 million in sales, with buyers drawn to the project’s harbour positioning, apartment scale, and proximity to the Metro, which now connects North Sydney to Barangaroo in three minutes and Martin Place in five.

ALAND has commenced construction, and is expecting a completion date in 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134323]

The Walden pairs house-scale living with North Sydney connectivity

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

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

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

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

Every First Home Owner Grant for new property by state

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

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

Staff Writer

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

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

alisonwarters@gmail.com

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

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

Ellen Walker

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

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

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

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Reservoir in Victoria, one of the most consistently busy suburbs, has been joined by Surfers Paradise as the busiest auction markets this weekend, according to CoreLogic.
Each have 19 auctions scheduled.
Burwood and Point Cook are the next busiest suburbs with 14 auctions scheduled each.
Click here <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2018/4/19/auctionsweekly.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/2018/4/19/auctionsweekly.jpg" alt="">
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Overall activity is tracking lower this week than last.
In total there are 1,592 properties scheduled for auction, down from last week's 1,915 auctions held.
It's also lower than the total this time last year, which saw 1,751 auctions held across the capital city markets.
Of the 19 auctions in Surfers Paradise, arguably the most interesting is a <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-qld-surfers+paradise-127949562" target="_blank">three bedroom apartment in the Chevron Renaissance Towers</a> on Ferny Avenue.
The 24th floor apartment traded for $590,000 in 2013 when there were $769,000 hopes.
 
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jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

Surfers Paradise joins Reservoir as busiest auction suburb

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Newcastle has seen property boom over the past three years and valuers Herron Todd White (HTW) noted the figures show it has been the fastest growing regional city for the past two years.
Once perceived as a gritty and undesirable industrial town dominated by BHP and coal, Newcastle has transformed into a desirable coastal regional city, thanks in part to some major urban renewal projects, the valuation firm suggest.
Traditionally, the Newcastle property market has been dictated by the Sydney market due to its close proximity.
Newcastle’s average house prices are still under half that of Sydney, attracting a large number of investors looking for an affordable alternative close by.
However, there are a few factors at play to suggest that while the Sydney market obviously has a strong influence, it is not the only measure influencing the local market.
Newcastle still has its industrial roots and with the Hunter Valley coal mines on the doorstep, the city is the largest coal exporting port in the world.
During the global financial crisis of 2008, while the major cities saw property values suffer negative movement, Newcastle and the Hunter Valley property prices were experiencing the effects of one of the biggest mining booms in history, avoiding any negative movement.
Perhaps the biggest influencer in the current Newcastle market is the amount of urban development occurring in the city. With a $90 million refurbishment of the city’s largest shopping centre along with the largest infrastructure development the city has undertaken in decades, Newcastle is fast losing its industrial stigma and becoming a desirable and affordable sea change destination.
A Newcastle inner city one bedroom apartment has been recently sold for $548,000 (pictured below).
Situated within the Tattersalls building,<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-apartment-nsw-newcastle-127767894" target="_blank"> the 603/9 Watt Street apartment</a> comes with main bedroom with walk-in robe, balcony with views of Newcastle's working harbour, and secure car space.
It is within close proximity of Hunter Street mall, the harbour foreshore as well as Newcastle's pristine beaches.
<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/2018/4/11/watt%20st%20.jpg" alt="">
Another new offering is a King Street five bedroom house with the price guide of $1.5 million (pictured below).
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-newcastle-127900482" target="_blank">The 81 King Street house</a> is proportioned over three levels with a generally north facing aspect.
It comprises a self contained (top two levels) three bedroom, with a large living room, older kitchen and bathroom and harbour "snippets".
Ground floor features a self contained two bedroom and sunroom flat with an older kitchen and bathroom and large open plan living room.
<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/2018/4/11/king%20st.jpg" alt="">
 
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Newcastle houses going for half Sydney prices: HTW

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A Preston three bedroom unit has been sold by mortgagees for $513,000.
It was sold by Kannan Subramanian and Graham Love from Love &amp; Co.
The property had last traded for $412,000 in 2011.
Set at<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-unit-vic-preston-127010338" target="_blank"> 1/5 Oak Street</a>, Preston, the Victorian home comes with three bedrooms, formal living room and garage.
Northland's transport hub, shopping and schools including primary school and Islamic College are within short distance.
According to CoreLogic, the suburb's median unit price sits on $427,500.
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Preston three bedroom unit sold by mortgagee

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The Commonwealth Games was brought to a close last weekend, and the Gold Coast property market has been buoyed by its host status. 
From house and land to the very top end, the Gold Coast has been securing an impressive sales run.
Ben Peasley, group marketing manager at Choice Homes, says the period prior to the games had seen strong market conditions over the past few months.
"The Games have coincided with our usual busy time of the year, so it was great news to see an even superior result than usual," Peasley noted this week.
"We achieved 22 sales this past week and similar numbers the week previous."
He said the most came from their developments in the far northern Gold Coast suburbs.
Choice Homes have two land developments, <a href="http://visitcamelot.com.au/" target="_blank">Camelot</a> in Coomera (below), and <a href="http://www.pimpamavillage.com.au/" target="_blank">Pimpama Village</a> at Pimpama, which are both in close proximity to the Coomera Indoor Sports Centre that opened two years ago.
It hosted the gymnastics competition and netball finals.
There's also the Westfield Coomera Town Centre that opens in September.
<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/2018/4/16/camelot1.jpg" alt="">
Valuation firm Herron Todd White had houses in the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast as strong markets. 
"The buzz around the Gold Coast has been contagious," Peasley said.
"A collective sense of pride and excitement, all the while watching the weather to ensure the 300 days of sunshine we enjoy each year would welcome The Games."
It is said the Games was the turning point for the Federal Government to provide much needed funding for the M1 widening and upgrades. It is an issue still being negotiated by the Queensland government.
A strong case has also been made for a stage 3 light rail after the success of stages 1 and 2. The line would run from Broadbeach to Burleigh Heads and possibly even further to a Coolangatta airport link up.
There have been a number of high profile sales in the last few days.
Ray White Broadbeach agent Sam Guo sold a French chateau style home for a Buccaneer Court street record at Surfers Paradise.
The waterfront home scored just under $6 million.
Guo hinted the Games have certainly helped. 
“There is no doubt that the eyes of the world has been on the Gold Coast lately and people are loving everything that our lifestyle and market has on offer," he said. 
“The Gold Coast has well and truly come of age and it’s great to see such confidence in the luxury market.”
At Sanctuary Cove a home on the exclusive Arnold Palmer Drive sold for a golf course record $6.5 million.
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From house and land to the very top end, Queensland's Gold Coast has secured an impressive sales run

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Data released by SQM Research this week has revealed the national residential vacancy rate slipped to 2.1% in March 2018.
The number of rental vacancies Australia-wide fell to 68,964, down from 2.2% in February when 69,727 properties were available.
Capital city asking rents have been pressured in Melbourne where the vacancy rate is just 1.4%.
Brisbane’s vacancy rate fell to 3.2%, down from 3.4% in February, while Canberra’s slipped to just 0.6%, down from 0.8%.
Commentator Peter Warrant noted the vacancy rate for Canberra has fallen from 2.5% in mid-2015 when it was announced in the Barr Budget that there would be significant rate rise and land taxes imposed in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT). While there are rentals on the market, the methodology picks up rental properties vacant between leases for a period of time and acts a viable leading indicator for markets that are tightening or easing.
With investors looking elsewhere, SQM reports that median asking rents for houses in the ACT have increased by +29% over the past three years to $617 per week.
That makes Canberra the second most expensive capital city after Sydney at a $738 per week median asking rent for houses.
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BGm3VeZZ7TA/WtUvDQ7EPOI/AAAAAAAApbk/ZQQmQb6NGrAHb2cNp2ojORGr-fJPI_-SQCLcBGAs/s640/SQM1.jpg" target="_blank">Click to open in new window</a>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BGm3VeZZ7TA/WtUvDQ7EPOI/AAAAAAAApbk/ZQQmQb6NGrAHb2cNp2ojORGr-fJPI_-SQCLcBGAs/s640/SQM1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BGm3VeZZ7TA/WtUvDQ7EPOI/AAAAAAAApbk/ZQQmQb6NGrAHb2cNp2ojORGr-fJPI_-SQCLcBGAs/s640/SQM1.jpg" width="640" height="386" data-original-height="836" data-original-width="1385"></a>
 
In Hobart the chronic shortage of rentals has eased a little over the past two months, if only a little. 
Melbourne has a relatively tight vacancy rate at 1.4%, while in Sydney the vacancy rate of 2.3% is being reflected in relatively flat rents overall, including a slight decline for median house asking rents.
The Perth market continues to pick up steadily from its nadir.
Melbourne’s vacancy rate of 1.4% was steady as was Sydney’s at 2.3%.
But Sydney’s vacancy rate is well up from 1.7% a year earlier, reflecting slightly easier rental conditions in the nation’s most populous capital.
Hobart's vacancy rate inched higher to 0.6% from 0.5%, but a shortage of rental properties still exits there. In Adelaide, the vacancy rate remained tight at just 1.4%.
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<td>
City
</td>
<td>
March 2017 Vacancies
</td>
<td>
Vacancy Rate
</td>
<td>
February 2018 Vacancies
</td>
<td>
Vacancy Rate
</td>
<td>
March 2018 Vacancies
</td>
<td>
Vacancy Rate
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Adelaide
</td>
<td>
3,108
</td>
<td>
1.7%
</td>
<td>
2,540
</td>
<td>
1.4%
</td>
<td>
2,519
</td>
<td>
1.4%
</td>
</tr>
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<td>
Perth
</td>
<td>
9,860
</td>
<td>
5.0%
</td>
<td>
8,319
</td>
<td>
4.1%
</td>
<td>
8,221
</td>
<td>
4.1%
</td>
</tr>
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<td>
Melbourne
</td>
<td>
7,397
</td>
<td>
1.4%
</td>
<td>
7,889
</td>
<td>
1.4%
</td>
<td>
7,479
</td>
<td>
1.4%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Brisbane
</td>
<td>
11,028
</td>
<td>
3.5%
</td>
<td>
10,925
</td>
<td>
3.4%
</td>
<td>
10,246
</td>
<td>
3.2%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Canberra
</td>
<td>
471
</td>
<td>
0.8%
</td>
<td>
495
</td>
<td>
0.8%
</td>
<td>
392
</td>
<td>
0.6%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Sydney
</td>
<td>
10,989
</td>
<td>
1.7%
</td>
<td>
15,581
</td>
<td>
2.3%
</td>
<td>
15,833
</td>
<td>
2.3%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Darwin
</td>
<td>
1,058
</td>
<td>
3.6%
</td>
<td>
989
</td>
<td>
3.3%
</td>
<td>
1,073
</td>
<td>
3.6%
</td>
</tr>
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<td>
Hobart
</td>
<td>
174
</td>
<td>
0.6%
</td>
<td>
145
</td>
<td>
0.5%
</td>
<td>
191
</td>
<td>
0.6%
</td>
</tr>
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<td>
National
</td>
<td>
73,554
</td>
<td>
2.3%
</td>
<td>
69,727
</td>
<td>
2.2%
</td>
<td>
68,964
</td>
<td>
2.1%
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
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SM noted in contrast to the national trend, Darwin’s vacancy rate rose to 3.6% from 3.3% in February.
The vacancy rate in Perth was steady at 4.1%.
Managing Director of SQM Research, Louis Christopher, said the vacancy numbers highlighted tight rental markets in some capital cities, particularly in Canberra and Hobart but also in Melbourne.
“Reflecting the tight rental conditions in Melbourne, asking rents for houses were up by 1.1% over the month to 12 April 2018, while asking rents rose 4.7% over the year.
"We can expect continued strong growth given the high population growth that Melbourne is currently experiencing, creating rental demand.
“In contrast, Sydney’s vacancy rate is above year-ago levels, and as rental vacancies rise, asking rents are falling. Asking rents for houses fell 1.3% over the year to 12 April while asking unit rents increased by just 0.8%.
"Sydney rents could continue to ease this year given its higher vacancy rate,” Christopher said.
Asking Rents
Capital city asking rents rose over the month to 12 April 2018 by 0.5% to $563 a week for houses. Unit asking rents rose 0.2% to $443 a week. Over the year, asking house rents rose by 1.3% while asking rents for units increased by 0.9%.
Asking rents for houses rose the most in Darwin over the month, up by 3.3% to $560 a week, though unit asking rents dropped 2.6%. In Melbourne, asking house rents gained 1.1% to $537 while unit asking rents rose 0.7% to $407 a week.
The asking rent for a three-bedroom house in Sydney remains the highest in the nation at $738 a week while for units it stands at $524. Canberra follows at $617 a week for houses and $439 for units.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2018/4/18/Picture1.jpg" target="_blank">Click to open in new window</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/2018/4/18/Picture1.jpg" alt="">
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Sydney rents could continue to ease this year given its higher vacancy rate: SQM

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With approximately 215,000 residents, Wollongong City is the third largest City in NSW.
The population of the entire Illawarra District tops 400,000.
"Although it has the population and local microeconomic factors of its own, the geographic proximity to Sydney is the key measure when determining the main influence on the residential property market," according to the valuation firm, Herron Todd White (HTW).
"When Sydney is hot, it flows on down the coast. When Sydney dries up, so do things down here," HTW's latest report advised.
As Sydney has become more and more unaffordable, Sydney residents are looking further afield - and Illawarra is a place to go to.
Buyers are faced with the decision of paying over $1,000,000 to live in a suburb close to the Sydney CBD or to consider outer suburbs.
With the commute from Campbelltown and surrounds into the CBD being over an hour, this compares favourably with catching the train from Thirroul (one hour 15 minutes) or Helensburgh (50 minutes).
"If proximity to family is not a relevant factor, the decision to pick the Illawarra is an easy one," HTW's April report noted.
CoreLogic reports the median sale price for December 2017 in Helensburgh as $911,000; in Woonona as $920,000; in Corrimal as $800,000.
A Woonona four bedroom house has been recently sold for $950,000 (pictured below).
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-woonona-127898146" target="_blank">Located at 88 Rixons Pass Rd</a>, the newly renovated house features north facing balcony,  parents retreat with ensuite, second living zone and private courtyard.
It is only moments to Woonona Village, schooling and local beaches, and with easy access to Memorial Drive.
The home also features a coastal outlook from its elevated position.
<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/2018/4/11/woonona.jpg" alt="">
Another offering currently on the market is a Helensburgh three bedroom house which priced at $85,000 to $87,000.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-helensburgh-127827242" target="_blank">Located at 24 Hay Street</a>, the cottage style home comes with three generous sized bedrooms, modern kitchen and open plan living and dining.
Extra features include polished floorboards throughout,  yard with covered entertaining area, and lock up garage.
Town centre, parklands, shops and cafes are within walking distance. 
<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/2018/4/11/helensburgh.jpg" alt="">
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Sydney market strength remains key to Illawarra performance: HTW

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A south-eastern Perth three bedroom house has been sold for $270,000 by mortgagees.
It was offered by Anna Downing from Ray White. 
It last sold at $125,000 in 2002.
It was up for sale in February last year at $380,000 after 260 days on market.
It was also for sale in 2015 for three months at $385,000.
 <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-wa-huntingdale-127296698" target="_blank">Located at 48 Alciston Way, Huntingdale</a>, the Western Australian home comes with three bedrooms, separate living area,  galley kitchen and landscape gardens.
It also features polished wooden floors, lined studio and carport.
It is positioned on an 852 square metre block.
According to CoreLogic, the suburb's median house price sits on $385,000.
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Huntingdale, Perth three bedroom house sold by mortgagee

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Rental rates in Brisbane increased by 1.1% over the first quarter of 2018 compared to a 1.2% increase in rents across regional Queensland.
Brisbane rents were just 0.6% higher over the past 12 months compared to a larger 2.8% increase across regional Queensland, CoreLogic noted.
Gross rental yields in Brisbane have moved marginally lower over the past year from 4.42% to 4.4%.
Outside of Brisbane, rental yields have increased from 5.24% a year ago to 5.27% currently.
Each SA4 region of Brisbane recorded a quarterly increase in rental rates, while over the past year, rents fell across two of the nine Brisbane SA4 regions.
Rental rates have increased at a similar pace to value which has resulted in seven of the nine Brisbane SA4 regions recording no change in rental yield over the past year while they reduced across the remaining two regions.
The housing market performance is much more mixed in regional Queensland however, values have only fallen over the quarter in two regions and in one region over the past year.
Of the 10 regional markets, six have higher yields than a year ago, two have unchanged yields and two have lower yields.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2018/4/18/QLD%20.jpg" target="_blank">Click here 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/2018/4/18/QLD%20.jpg" alt="">
A Brisbane inner city riverfront apartment on the rental market is priced at $520 a week (pictured below).
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-qld-brisbane+city-418063250" target="_blank">The 1604/100 Quay St apartment</a> features two generous bedrooms, modern kitchen and inground pool.
Extra features include ceiling fans, air conditioning and terrace balcony.
Within the walking distance to city, it is only a few minutes to the Palace boutique shopping and restaurant hub.
<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/2018/4/18/quay%20st.jpg" alt="">
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Inner city Brisbane rents in mild decline: CoreLogic 

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EXPERT OBSERVATION
Skilled job vacancies advertisements rose for an 18th consecutive month according to the Department of Employment, for the first time since March 2011. 
There was quite a jump in the month too, from 184,000 to 189,000, with the trend result now +34% higher (or +47,400 advertisements) than the October 2013 nadir. 
<img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wACLnNcO25o/WtayckwYfTI/AAAAAAAApcs/NAfKDJ132Uk4Xc5RIzsU6j4V8F11bgsrACLcBGAs/s640/B1.jpg" width="640" height="374" data-original-height="803" data-original-width="1369">
Conditions improved everywhere, especially Western Australia, although South Australia was the notable laggard, with only a small annual change in vacancies. 
Things are certainly looking up, slowly but surely, and when the economy improves often so too does immigration rise.
Indeed, the number of permanent and long term arrivals hit the highest ever level in February 2018 at 105,630, in turn sending the annual total to a record high of 788,260.
If you've ever wondered why Melbourne's supposed oversupply of housing never materialised, here's why.
<img src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mlLxLHUvi3w/WtaybzH43kI/AAAAAAAApco/HmjblYeLJrIEUgLPlTys3ev-gY9FUkryQCLcBGAs/s640/A1.jpg" width="640" height="392" data-original-height="826" data-original-width="1348">
February also played host to a tourism bonanza in honour of Chinese Lunar New Year, with a record 226,900 Chinese arrivals in the month.
<img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hUpl_MJtO1Y/Wtaycs4gKVI/AAAAAAAApcw/0dl1EY2hoNYX9IHzKotD0Fi2b1jmheH3QCLcBGAs/s640/A2.jpg" width="640" height="406" data-original-height="823" data-original-width="1292">
Including arrivals from Hong Kong there were more than ¼ million visitors in just 28 days.
Unprecedented. 
With 1.4 million short-term visitors over the year to February it's no surprise that China grabs the tourism headlines, though there were also record arrivals from other countries, including India at 311,500. 
<img src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IrLBHimJPGk/Wta1mkKqYzI/AAAAAAAApdQ/g4mNZRNIIbchfD7OO2gbjLq_qT7iWpkCgCLcBGAs/s640/STAs.jpg" width="640" height="378" data-original-height="830" data-original-width="1404">
February is also a key intake month for international students, and education arrivals were also extremely high at 111,500, although this was just a notch below the record high for a month set in February 2017.
Annual arrivals were above 564,000, but these numbers need to be treated with a little care due to double-counting. 
<img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LY3iAQhR8ik/Wta2MZB6NVI/AAAAAAAApdY/UXhrF7oggZEDKbqNggnxpR3KXSo_FeQOgCLcBGAs/s640/Education.jpg" width="640" height="396" data-original-height="825" data-original-width="1331">
Lots of moving parts here, but the big picture is very strong demographic flows, especially into Sydney and Melbourne, coupled with booming tourism for Australia. A heady combination. 
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pwargent-M4siyDbqQY

Why Melbourne's supposed oversupply of housing never materialised: Pete Wargent

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A home South Coast of New South Wales has been sold by mortgagees for $510,000.
The home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-wandandian-127654914" target="_blank">55B Hayward Road in Wandandian</a> sits on 2.5 acres.
It has four bedrooms, two bathrooms, a timber kitchen and French doors.
It last traded for $150,000 in 2003.
Vinny Cannon from Ray White secured the sale.
 
 
 
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