<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mrcb">MRCB International</a> has commenced construction on its latest Gold Coast apartment development, Maris, on the site of the former Sundale Motel in Southport.

The start of construction by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/binah-constructions">Binah</a> follows an exceptionally strong sales campaign, with more than 90 per cent of apartments sold since launch. Every purchaser has been local, an&nbsp;indicator of confidence in both the development and Southport's evolution into a thriving CBD.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/maris-southport-20-queen-street-southport-qld-4215">Maris</a> will deliver 192 residences across 20 levels. The project forms part of MRCB's Australian and New Zealand development pipeline now exceeding $1.6 billion in gross development value, alongside a growing portfolio of projects globally.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134403 project_image_fid=350663]

The company also commenced construction on its $600 million 26 Vista residences in Surfers Paradise last year, following strong sales momentum, with over 70 per cent of residences sold.

Maris has been designed to meet evolving buyer demand, offering architecturally designed layouts suited to long-term liveability. The approach reflects a growing preference for quality and adaptability among Gold Coast buyers.

Positioned next to the Broadwater in the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/southport-qld-4215">Southport</a> CBD, Maris sits directly opposite the Broadwater Parklands light rail station and within easy reach of retail, dining and lifestyle precincts, placing residents at the centre of one of the Gold Coast's most connected and rapidly maturing urban centres.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134403 project_image_fid=372756]

Maris will offer a full suite of resort-style residential amenities, including a pool, gym and sauna, along with a rooftop level featuring decks, lounges and dining and yoga areas that command sweeping views across the Broadwater and out to the ocean.

Binah, a New South Wales headquartered company co-founded by Amen Zoabi and Khalil Hafza in 2008, has expressed its excitement at establishing its first partnership with MRCB.

Binah's Managing Director Khalil Hafza said partnering with MRCB on Maris is a significant moment for Binah.

"MRCB's financial strength and a track record that speaks for itself give this project a solid foundation, and this marks the beginning of what will be a long and successful relationship.

"With the right people, systems and partnerships behind it, Maris is set to become a significant addition to the Gold Coast's premium residential market."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134403 project_image_fid=350664]

MRCB International CEO Ravi Krishnan said the project's progression to construction reflects both sustained demand and tightening conditions across the apartment sector, as well as MRCB's continued confidence in the Gold Coast market.

"Commencing construction at Maris is a significant step and reflects the depth of demand for quality apartments in well-connected urban locations," said Krishnan.

"Across Southeast Queensland, new apartment supply remains constrained, particularly in established precincts with infrastructure and amenity already in place. Projects like Maris are increasingly critical in meeting that demand, especially on the Gold Coast and in the city's CBD precinct."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134403 project_image_fid=372761]

Krishnan said Southport's ongoing transformation, supported by infrastructure investment and long-term planning, was underpinning renewed buyer confidence.

"We're seeing a clear shift back towards well-located urban centres where infrastructure, connectivity and amenity are already established," said Mr Krishnan. "Southport is evolving into a more mature CBD environment, and that is being reflected in buyer behaviour."

Construction at Maris is anticipated to be completed in 2029.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134403]

Joel Robinson

Construction commences on MRCB’s $200m Maris Residences in Southport

Moonee Valley Park’s latest residential release <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-eveline-at-moonee-valley-park-moonee-ponds-100-thomas-street-moonee-ponds-vic-3039">The Eveline</a>, has achieved a new benchmark for off-the-plan apartment sales in the suburb, with the sale of The Alexandra penthouse selling for $5,435,000.

Positioned on the top floor of a 16-level residential building, the three-bedroom, three and-a-half-bathroom penthouse features uninterrupted city skyline views across the future Valley racetrack.&nbsp;

The landmark sale comes as momentum at the precinct continues to build, with the Moonee Valley Racing Club progressing works on its new racetrack ahead of the 2027 Cox Plate. The transformative development will see MVRC reimagine the beloved Valley as a vibrant year-round entertainment and lifestyle destination.

Alongside a world-class racing experience, the historic precinct will be activated with events, hospitality and public green spaces designed to attract broader audiences, while breathing new life into one of Melbourne’s most iconic destinations.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=142519 project_image_fid=372786]

Development partners <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/hamton">Hamton Property Group</a> and Hostplus have delivered five residential stages over the past four years, the most recent in November 2025 with Trackside House and Stonepine House. The flourishing community is now home to almost 500 families.&nbsp;

The latest residential release, The Eveline, has recorded strong demand since launching publicly last July, securing more than $200 million in sales to date, satisfying its pre sales hurdle for construction to commence.&nbsp;

Hamton Founder and Executive Chairman, Paul Hameister OAM said, the sales&nbsp;team have been overwhelmed by demand for these unique homes in this unique project.

"Buyers continue to be predominantly hyperlocal and attracted by the 40 hectare botanic masterplan in Melbourne’s inner north west," Hameister said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=142519 project_image_fid=372788]

Hamton’s Sales and Marketing Director Fergus Humphries said the team has achieved more than 70 sales over the past eight weeks, including the penthouse purchase by a local buyer.

"These results reinforce that, even in a challenging market, purchasers continue to be drawn to quality projects that offer more than just a home, they offer a lifestyle.”

Designed by Cera Stribley, the penthouse has been created with entertaining in mind, spanning close to 400 sqm of indoor and outdoor living space, including multiple terraces designed to capture sweeping views across Melbourne’s skyline, the new Valley racecourse and sunset views over Moonee Ponds.

Moonee Valley Park is one of Melbourne’s largest urban renewal projects, transforming the iconic racecourse site into a vibrant mixed-use neighbourhood integrating homes, parklands, retail, racing and community amenities.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=142519]

Moonee Valley Park penthouse sets suburb record as sales surge clears construction benchmark

A company linked to one of Australia's largest privately owned cattle businesses has lodged plans for a new residential tower in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/newstead-qld-4006">Newstead</a>, continuing the rapid transformation of one of Brisbane's most sought-after, inner-city precincts.

Bottletree Holdings, an entity associated with Stanbroke Managing Director Brendan Menegazzo, has submitted a development application for a 28-storey mixed-use tower at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/9-longland-street-newstead-qld-4006">9 Longland Street</a>, a site that made headlines last year when it changed hands in an off-market transaction that reportedly set a benchmark land rate for the suburb.

The proposal would replace an existing two-storey commercial building on the 1,510 sqm corner site with a Bureau Proberts-designed tower comprising 76 apartments, ground-floor retail, office space and a suite of resident wellness amenities.

<img alt="9 Longland" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c710a836-568e-4382-bc91-3c34b8e80a8b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-22%20at%209.41.45%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=Vy.mQWBc7GA_a.vIBdxKqRC9XGjWalo2" />

According to planning documents lodged with Brisbane City Council, the development would comprise a mix of 36 two-bedroom apartments, 24 three-bedroom apartments and 16 four-bedroom residences, positioning the project firmly at the premium end of the market. The apartments would sit above a podium containing retail and commercial space, with three levels of communal recreation facilities spread throughout the tower. The proposal also includes 198 car spaces and 95 bicycle spaces.

Bureau Proberts has drawn heavily on Newstead's industrial heritage in developing the architectural response.

"Occupying a prominent corner in the heart of Newstead, the proposal draws from the area's industrial lineage of robust brick warehouses to deliver a distinctly contemporary response," the architects said in the design statement.

"It is conceived as a subtropical sanctuary and elevated private retreat embedded within one of Brisbane's most vibrant lifestyle precincts."

The design seeks to reinterpret the traditional Queensland vernacular through wraparound verandahs, deep shading elements and permeable facades that respond to Brisbane's subtropical climate.

<img alt="9 Longland" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="25524f59-395c-4825-8fad-9b639822fa8a" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-22%20at%209.42.09%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=dlWlbpCc_g3Y6yTLGqRVKvGJvO2ubMJ3" />

Planning documents describe the building as embodying the principles of "buildings that breathe", a design approach increasingly favoured in Brisbane's apartment market as developers focus on natural ventilation and outdoor living spaces.

The tower itself would rise above a heavily landscaped podium designed to reference the woolstore architecture that helped define Newstead and neighbouring Teneriffe for generations. At ground level, fine-grain retail tenancies would activate Longland Street, Wyandra Street and the existing Wyatt Street laneway, further extending the pedestrian network that has become a hallmark of the Gasworks precinct.

The application notes that more than 54 per cent of the site would be dedicated to landscaping and deep planting, while approximately 1,750 sqm of communal recreation space would be delivered across multiple levels.

<img alt="Planning" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fed3b189-1054-4b68-af5f-b0befc4a66e5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-22%20at%209.42.19%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=gqeE3cjsbnLAfeTUKA1HtPZfqDs6S4Xa" />

Bottletree paid $22 million for the 1,510 sqm development site, equating to more than $14,500 per sqm, a reflection of the strong demand for development opportunities in Newstead. The suburb continues to attract both developers and buyers, underpinned by the ongoing evolution of the Gasworks and Teneriffe precincts into some of Brisbane's most sought-after lifestyle destinations.

Brisbane City Council's Sustainable Growth Strategy and Inner City Strategy both identify Newstead as a priority growth precinct capable of accommodating additional housing density due to its proximity to employment hubs, public transport and lifestyle infrastructure.

The proposed tower joins a growing pipeline of high-end apartment developments in the suburb. Fortis recently launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/crest-walker-newstead-12-kyabra-street-newstead-qld-4006">Crest &amp; Walker</a>, a 65-apartment owner-occupier-focused development on Kyabra Street, while Consolidated Properties Group is preparing to launch <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/castile-47-skyring-terrace-newstead-qld-4006">Castile</a>, a 227-apartment waterfront project on Skyring Terrace.

Meanwhile, builder-developer BPG is planning its own Newstead project on Maud Street, comprising just over 100 apartments and more than 1,380 sqm of dedicated wellness and resident amenity spaces, further highlighting the shift towards lifestyle-driven apartment developments in Brisbane's inner-city market.

Newstead apartment boom continues with Longland Street tower plans

ALAND has taken the next major step in delivering its vision for Leppington Town Centre, lodging State Significant Development plans for a $549 million residential precinct that would bring more than 1,200 new homes within walking distance of Leppington Station.

The proposal, now on public exhibition, forms the Residential Core Precinct of the broader Leppington Town Centre masterplan and would transform a 4.3-hectare site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/156-166-rickard-road-leppington-nsw-2179">156-166 Rickard Road</a> into a high-density mixed-use neighbourhood comprising nine residential buildings rising between six and 25 storeys.

<img alt="ALAND" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fc20982d-a0a9-4989-8fb3-680ca9fdcd10" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-22%20at%209.12.44%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=l5EEyS6Dkf_SLDQkwDeyAU2nXkSZP2RW" />

The development has been designed by Rothelowman and is being pursued through a State Significant Development Application alongside a concurrent rezoning request under the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority pathway.

If approved, the project would deliver 1,206 dwellings, including 784 build-to-sell apartments, 208 build-to-rent apartments, 189 affordable housing units and a nine-storey serviced apartment building containing 112 rooms. The proposal also includes around 7,400 sqm of non-residential floor space, new public open space, communal recreation areas and a new internal street network.

<img alt="ALAND" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c4f80d3b-cb05-4068-8a87-808317807a99" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-22%20at%209.12.36%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=KfPqh1JBuxc53IWntEzGHAeBaCLmRmum" />

<h2 data-end="1990" data-section-id="s6350" data-start="1941">A key piece of Leppington's future town centre</h2>

The site sits around 250 metres from Leppington Station, which opened in 2015 as the terminus of the South West Rail Link and has long been earmarked as the catalyst for the suburb's transformation from a rural fringe location into a major strategic centre for Western Sydney.

Leppington has become increasingly important following the announcement of the Western Sydney International Airport and the emergence of Bradfield City Centre, with government planning identifying the precinct as a significant location for future housing and employment growth.

<img alt="ALAND" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8ca0f098-affc-48c0-80d3-468ea090a20c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-22%20at%209.12.26%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=o3mwgBFT6H9YUllI0JR.JfLsUYQy1CTa" />

According to Rothelowman, the proposal responds directly to Leppington's unique position between its agricultural past and its urban future.

"The site offers an opportunity to weave together multiple layers of history, from its ancient connections to Country along the ridgeline between two waterways and its origins as part of the Cumberland woodland, to its more recent agricultural uses, and its future as a new residential community," the architects said in the design report.

The architects said the project aims to establish a high-density residential typology that combines apartment living with extensive landscaping and public open space.

"The design responds by establishing a high-density typology that combines the convenience and amenity of contemporary apartment living with a renewed native landscape."

<h2 data-end="3541" data-section-id="1ko88s2" data-start="3485">Nine buildings arranged around parks and public space</h2>

The proposal has been designed around a landscape-led framework rather than a traditional podium-and-tower approach.

Across the site, approximately 7,500 sqm of public open space would be delivered through a network of north-south and east-west linear parks, connecting into the wider Leppington Town Centre open space network. A further 8,000 sqm of communal open space would be provided for residents.

<img alt="ALAND" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f5113abf-5440-4610-9cdc-60a0d41a407e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-22%20at%209.12.55%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=k8zLMj4yZS4hStmGzZJfosjj5iArwIek" />

Rothelowman said the design seeks to maximise landscaping at ground level by concentrating development into compact tower footprints.

"Buildings are carefully lifted and distributed to minimise disturbance to the natural terrain, allowing the ground plane to remain open, permeable, and led by landscape," the design report states.

Rather than creating a continuous podium edge, the design team has focused on allowing landscaping to extend beneath and around the buildings.

"The ground plane is conceived as an extension of the surrounding environment, allowing landscape to flow up to and beneath the built forms."

The architectural language also draws on the area's natural landscape, with Rothelowman describing a material palette influenced by local gum trees, bark textures, creek systems and sandstone tones.

<h2 data-end="4971" data-section-id="s69utu" data-start="4922">Affordable housing and build-to-rent component</h2>

One of the more significant aspects of the proposal is the diversity of housing typologies.

In addition to traditional apartments for sale, the scheme includes a dedicated 25-storey build-to-rent building with 208 apartments and a 22-storey affordable housing building containing 189 homes.

The affordable housing component represents almost 16 per cent of the total dwellings proposed within the Residential Core Precinct.

<img alt="ALAND" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f87e6808-e462-44c6-bfa8-a3de1816f2e3" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-22%20at%209.33.36%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=WTsRKiUAyWw18S5S98yQB5oVuDcnJTxB" />

Community consultation undertaken ahead of the lodgement found support for additional housing in the area, particularly given ongoing affordability challenges across South West Sydney. Survey work conducted with local residents found housing affordability was one of the poorest-rated aspects of living in Leppington, while a majority of respondents were open to additional housing within the local government area.

The site's proximity to Leppington Station was identified as the most positively viewed aspect of the proposal, while public open space and affordable housing provisions also received majority support.

<h2 data-end="6184" data-section-id="1ngkie4" data-start="6140">Part of Leppington's broader expansion</h2>

ALAND will be a significant contributor to the broader vision for Leppington Town Centre, which is expected to accommodate more than 25,000 residents as the precinct evolves over the coming decades.

Located within Sydney's South West Growth Area, the 440-hectare Leppington Town Centre has been identified by the NSW Government as a strategic centre spanning both the Liverpool and Camden local government areas.

In 2023, Liverpool City Council and Camden Council, supported by the NSW Department of Planning and Environment, prepared a draft planning proposal to rezone land and amend development controls across a number of sites within the town centre.

The proposal outlines a new vision for Leppington Town Centre, reducing the amount of land allocated for business park uses while increasing land zoned for commercial development, housing and open space. The changes are designed to optimise land use across the precinct and support the delivery of a more walkable, transit-oriented centre anchored by Leppington Station.

&nbsp;

ALAND plots 1,200-home Leppington masterplan

Brisbane-based developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/trk-property-group">TRK Property Group</a>&nbsp;has enlisted renowned architecture firm Koichi Takada Architects to design its latest new apartment development.

The new 34-storey tower at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/57-berwick-street-fortitude-valley-qld-4006">57 Berwick Street, Fortitude Valley</a>,&nbsp;will have 189 apartments, complete with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/byculprit">byCULPRIT</a>. The upper levels&nbsp;capturing views across the Story Bridge, city skyline, ranges, bay and river.

Residents will have access to a rooftop amenity floor with facilities including a pool, spa, sauna, hot and cold treatment, meditation garden, gym, yoga studio, private dining, BBQ, games lounge, wine display wall, work library, meeting rooms and outdoor work areas.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/trk-property-group">TRK</a> Founder and Managing Director, Arpan Kohli, said it will be a project "Brisbane hasn't seen before."

&nbsp;

"To deliver a project of this calibre, you need the right people involved," Kohli said.

"Koichi Takada Architects and byCULPRIT set the benchmarks for design excellence, and this project reflects that - a building of genuine architectural significance in one of Brisbane's most coveted locations, sitting between Howard Smith Wharves and the James Street precinct."

TRK recently launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/laya-residences-taigum-203-beams-road-taigum-qld-4018">LAYA Residences in Taigum</a>, 88 three-bedroom townhouses starting from $1,495,000. They have another apartment site in Indooroopilly, at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/140-central-avenue-indooroopilly-qld-4068">140 Central Avenue</a>. That will have 131 apartments.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

TRK proposes Koichi Takada-designed apartment development in Fortitude Valley

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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Online property agency iBuyNew has launched an apartment complex off-the-plan, situated close to Brisbane’s CBD at West End and monikered The One.
The building at <a href="https://theonewestend.com.au/" target="_blank">89 Victoria Street</a> is offering 61 contemporary one and two bedroom apartments, within range of cafes, restaurants, bars, shopping and recreational spaces.
A price guide of $396,000-$429,000 will land homebuyers and investors a 51 sqm one bedroom apartment, whilst $570,000-$710,000 will command a two bedroom apartment ranging in size from 70-92 sqm.
“The One West End offers lifestyle and luxury in a quiet corner of lively West End,” commented iBuyNew CEO, Alex Caraco.
“Buyers can choose from 16 individual floor plans - ensuring the home you choose is the perfect fit for your particular urban lifestyle,” he said.
iBuyNew is also offering incentives to direct customers, including no stamp duty charges and free legal fees for all buyers, while first time buyers can alternatively receive a $15,000 rebate on settlement if their purchase is below $500,000.
Investors can take advantage of an 8.0 percent rental guarantee for the first year and 5.0 percent for years two and three. Body corporate charges for owner occupiers are waived for the first year.
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iBuyNew launches apartment complex with stamp duty incentives

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Craigieburn is set to be the busiest locality for auctions this week, according to CoreLogic’s latest report.
The property data firm says that this week, Craigieburn is the busiest suburb for auctions, with 24 homes set to go under the hammer, followed by Glen Waverley (19), Epping (18) and Mount Waverley (15), all of which are in Victoria.
Click to enlarge
<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/2017/04/27/Screen%20Shot%202017-04-27%20at%2010.04.03%20am.jpg" alt="">
The number of auctions scheduled to take place across the combined capital cities this week is expected to increase, with 2,166 currently being tracked by CoreLogic.
In both Melbourne and Sydney, the two major auction markets, auction activity is set to ramp up with 1,133 scheduled auctions across Melbourne, increasing from 828 last week and 738 homes to go under the hammer in Sydney, up from last week’s 596.
A five bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-craigieburn-124646258" target="_blank">68 Newbury Boulevard</a>, Cragieburn (above) is set to go under the hammer this weekend.
Similarly a four bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-craigieburn-125072718" target="_blank">7 Brio Drive</a>, Craigieburn (below) will go under the hammer this weekend.
<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/2017/04/27/7%20Brio%20Drive.jpg" alt="">
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/04/27/Screen%20Shot%202017-04-27%20at%2010.04.07%20am.jpg" target="_blank">Click 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/2017/04/27/Screen%20Shot%202017-04-27%20at%2010.04.07%20am.jpg" alt="">
Across the smaller auction markets, volumes will see an increase across Canberra and Tasmania, while decreasing in Adelaide, Brisbane and Perth.
Overall, auction activity is set to be lower than what was seen over the corresponding week last year (2,675).
Last week, the final auction clearance rate across the combined capital cities fell below 70 percent, after remaining in the mid-70 percent range for 10 consecutive weeks.
There were 1,751 capital city auctions last week, with 69.8 percent reporting as successful, down from the 73.9 percent, across a significantly lower 493 auctions the week prior.
When compared to one year ago, auction volumes were a lower 1,565, with 69.7 percent clearing.
In Melbourne, volumes rose substantially over the week, with 828 auctions held and a final auction clearance rate of 75.2 percent.
This is lower than the 81.3 per cent across 102 auctions the week prior, however higher than one year ago when there were 602 auctions and a success rate of 71.5 percent.
Across Sydney, volumes doubled over the week, with 596 auctions held and 72.4 percent reporting as successful, down from 77.0 percent across 279 auctions the previous week and also lower than the 77.4 percent one year ago.
Across the remaining capital cities, clearances rates fell in Adelaide, Canberra and Perth, while increasing in Brisbane and Tasmania, however auction volumes were significantly higher last week compared to the week prior.
Geelong recorded the highest clearance rate of all the non-capital city regions at 70.7 percent, while the Gold Coast region had the highest volume of auctions (64).
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Craigieburn to be the busiest Melbourne locality for auctions: CoreLogic

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Ryde had the highest auction clearance rate in Sydney, according to CoreLogic’s latest report for last weekend.
The property data firm says that out of the 26 auctions known to CoreLogic in Ryde 88.5 percent resulted in a successful outcome.
This is followed by Blacktown with 86.7 percent and the Inner West with 81 percent.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/04/27/Screen%20Shot%202017-04-27%20at%2010.06.09%20am.jpg" target="_blank">Click 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/2017/04/27/Screen%20Shot%202017-04-27%20at%2010.06.09%20am.jpg" alt="">
The Central Coast area had the lowest auction clearance rate with only 54.2 percent of its 24 auctions resulted in a successful outcome.
A five bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-eastwood-125117770">70 Eastwood Avenue</a>, Eastwood (above) was sold for $2.43 million.
Similarly a two bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-unit-nsw-epping-125121254">4/65 Oxford Street</a>, Epping (below) was sold for $730,000.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/04/27/4_65%20Oxford%20Street.jpg" alt="">
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Ryde scores lucky auction clearance rate of 88 percent: CoreLogic

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A $290 million urban renewal project has transformed a former industrial rock crushing business into contemporary housing in the Melbourne suburb of Richmond.
A joint venture between the Riverlee Group, and Macquarie Real Estate Equity Funds, the newly completed Jaques precinct features 377 apartments and townhouses.
Bordered by Palmer, Coppin, Highett and Griffiths Streets, it is situated on the Jaques Bros Foundry, a 9945 sqm engineering business that produced rock crushing machinery dating back to founder Edward Jaques in 1885.
The factory’s original red brick tower greets visitors at the south-western entrance to the site and original drawings and blueprints for the manufacturing of the rock crushing machinery are showcased throughout, which date back to as early as 1915.
Lead architect Karl Fender, of Fender Katsalidis Architects, remarked that all those involved in the project felt a responsibility to the site’s past, particularly since it had remained in the Jaques family until Riverlee purchased it in 1997.
“The architecture had to reference the heritage of the site while also creating a contemporary home for new residents and all of the modern conveniences we expect today,” he said.
<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/2017/04/05/Riverlee_Jaques_Penthouse_Exterior.jpg" alt="">
“Through adaptation, modification and contemporary reinterpretation of the original perimeter of the factory’s brick wall, this industrial element has become the defining feature of Jaques and a signal that will always reference the site’s past.”
Crafted over three stages, Jaques features five integrated buildings ranging in height from four to ten levels, industrial materials such as brick, copper, timber and steel have been used on all buildings in a restrained way to enrich the façade.
Stage one interiors were designed by award winning interior design firm Hecker Guthrie created stage two’s interiors.
Palmer St in stage three is the vision of Samantha Eades.
Targeted at the downsizer market, Palmer St evoked a luxury response, with elevated fixtures and finishes and large apartment sizes throughout the unique triangular shaped building.
<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/2017/04/05/Riverlee_Jaques_Stage%201_Courtyard.jpg" alt="">
Riverlee Group spokesperson Kristine Lee said locals had embraced Jaques, with on average 70 percent of purchasers being owner occupiers across the three Stages.
"In fact, less than 6 percent of purchasers reside offshore, with postcode analysis showing the majority lived within a five to seven kilometre radius of the site before moving to Jaques," she said.
<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/2017/04/05/Riverlee_Jaques_Penthouse_Interior.jpg" alt="">
As an added incentive to residents of the inner city project, Riverlee provided some purchasers with a bicycle upon moving in as well as a Myki card. The buildings also feature live Tram Tracker screens.
With the exception of the penthouse within stage two to be released onto the market in April, Jaques is completely sold out and residents have been moving in since the first stage was completed in 2013, with stage three residents occupying the Palmer St site since January 2017.
 
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Local downsizer targeted in Jaques Richmond's urban renewal project

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A 445 sqm landholding near Swinburne University's Hawhtorn campus has been listed for sale.
It is being billed for a multi-level residential or student accommodation redevelopment.
Colliers International’s Hamish Burgess is marketing the property with $3 million hopes.
The <a href="https://www.colliers.com.au/31771/%7B9aa36502-522a-4b99-a8c2-04e5e41b47dd%7D/" target="_blank">George Street property</a> is being marketed as highly suitable to student accommodation.
Any multi-level development has a discretionary height allowance of 22 metres.
<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/2017/04/21/Hawthorn1.jpg" alt="" width="449" height="327">
“The site is positioned in the Swinburne education precinct and will appeal to both residential and student accommodation developers,” Hamish Burgess said. 
He said the site’s flexible Commercial One zoning under the City of Boroondara, position in the Swinburne education precinct.
Subject to council approval, buyers are likely to capitalise on the demand for both residential and student housing here, he said.
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Developers canvassed for landholding in Swinburne University precinct

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A South Melbourne development site has been listed for sale.
The property at <a href="https://www.commercialrealestate.com.au/property/5-7-park-street-south-melbourne-vic-3205-2013527890" target="_blank">5-7 Park Street</a> is set on a 409 sqm parcel in the heart of one of Melbourne’s most established suburbs with both commercial and residential development opportunities.
Offered through Colliers International, the commercial property comes with a development scheme for 43 large luxury apartments.
David Sia, Daniel Wolman and Hamish Burgess are marketing the property.
 
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South Melbourne development site listed for sale

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CBRE has been appointed to unload an office building in the northern end of Melbourne’s St Kilda Road business precinct.
Located on the corner of St Kilda Road and Kings Way, the 420 St Kilda Road property comprises a 10-level office building leased to major covenants, including ANZ bank and APP Corporation.
An International Expressions of Interest campaign will be launched next month to promote the asset, which boasts 10,500sqm of net lettable space, on behalf of CEL Australia.
Over the past 24 months, the St Kilda Road office market has emerged as an attractive investment market, recording one of the highest rates of net effective rent growth nationwide of over 9%.
Commenting on the listing, CBRE’s Kiran Pillai remarked that the property was well positioned to capitalise on the continued strong demand from tenants for this location.
“Steady withdrawals of secondary space in St Kilda Road for conversion and redevelopment has underpinned incredibly strong tenant demand for space in the remaining prime grade buildings,” Pillai said.
“The property’s prime corner position at the northern end of the precinct, combined with an efficient floor plate allowing for an adaptive asset plan, will hold the asset in excellent stead long into the future.”
The location is expected to further benefit from the new Melbourne Metro Rail project with the Domain station to be located within around 300 metres of 420 St Kilda Road.
CBRE senior director Neva Courts added the St Kilda Road market had emerged as a key investment destination for domestic and offshore investors.
“420 St Kilda Road offers both security of income and growth in the short to medium term in addition to long term opportunities for the site, which could include a potential redevelopment to residential or hotel,” she explained.
Michael Ng, executive director of CEL Australia, said the sale of 420 St Kilda Road will allow CEL Australia to redeploy funds into our current development projects in Melbourne and Perth in order to seek higher returns. 
“We are also looking into new development and investment opportunities across key Australian cities.”
The 420 St Kilda Road property has come to the market after the recent sale of 5 Queens Road in late 2016, by Charter Hall’s Office Trust. The sale, also brokered by CBRE, represented a passing yield of 5.64% and capital value of $6,665/sqm.
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CEL Australia lists prominent St. Kilda office tower

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Developer Beulah International and design practice Fender Katsalidis Architects have joined forces to deliver an apartment project in Melbourne’s inner north east, known as Hallmark Ivanhoe.
Ranging in price from $420,000 to $1.5 million, the Hallmark Ivanhoe building is comprised of 35 apartments over five levels. Residents will have the choice of one, two, three and four bedroom apartments, with each offering treetop views and private outdoor terraces.
Interiors feature a neutral colour palette throughout, from reconstituted stone and natural stone to light and dark joinery, which are then complemented with bronze fixtures and finishes.
Nicky Drobis, director of design at Fender Katsalidis, commented that the key inspiration for Hallmark Ivanhoe stems from the diverse architectural history of Ivanhoe, including modernist architecture and the sophistication of art deco architecture.
“Hallmark Ivanhoe is a very elegant and simple building; it takes cues from the strength and sense of presence from modernist architecture in its simplicity and form, but also from the lightness and sophistication of art deco architecture within Ivanhoe,” she said.
“Throughout every era new architecture has been brought into Ivanhoe that’s been relevant and contemporary of its time, so we were really hoping to do the same thing with this building, Hallmark Ivanhoe,” she said.
<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/2017/04/12/HallmarkIvanhoe_Interior.jpg" alt="">
Drobis added the culture of Ivanhoe is still very similar to when she lived in the suburb growing up. 
“Ivanhoe is quite unique and special in that it’s a remarkably green space, it’s well located, it’s only 10kms from the city, but as a postcode and as a neighbourhood, it has everything you need.” 
<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/2017/04/12/HallmarkIvanhoe_Bathroom.jpg" alt="">
Kitchens have been designed in collaboration with renowned chef Adam D’Sylva and feature premium Gaggenau appliances, which are complemented and encased by natural stone and luxurious timber finishes.
Beulah International executive director Adelene Teh said Hallmark Ivanhoe will be suited to local downsizers who value great design.
“A key component of our vision is to add character and depth to the local communities in which we develop, ensuring strong emphasis is always placed on embracing the cultural nuances and history that makes each suburb or project unique.
“Residents within Hallmark Ivanhoe may be looking to downsize in size, but step up in terms of design, quality and lifestyle offerings,” she concluded. 
 To register your interest, please visit <a href="https://www.hallmarkivanhoe.com.au/" target="_blank">www.hallmarkivanhoe.com.au</a>.
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Beulah International and Fender Katsalidis Architects launches luxury residences in Melbourne’s Ivanhoe

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The Australian Tax Office (ATO) released their taxation statistics for the 2014-15 financial year last week, and from a housing market perspective it provides some really valuable data on property investor behaviour.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/04/20/rsz_the_number_of_individuals_claiming_a_net_rental_loss_has_flat_lined_over_recent_years__.png" target="_blank">CLICK TO ENLARGE</a>
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/04/20/rsz_the_number_of_individuals_claiming_a_net_rental_loss_has_flat_lined_over_recent_years__.png" width="700" height="425">
Over the 2014-15 financial year, property investors claimed $11.120 billion in net rental losses compared to $7.491 billion in net rental profit.  The value of net rental profit rose by 0.3% over the year while the value of net rental losses was -2.3% lower resulting in an overall position of $3.628 billion in net rental losses claimed over the year. The $3.628 billion in rental losses over the year was the lowest value of overall losses since 2003-04.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/04/21/rsz_pct_of_individuals.png" target="_blank">CLICK TO ENLARGE</a>
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/04/21/rsz_pct_of_individuals.png" target="_blank"><img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/04/21/rsz_pct_of_individuals.png" width="700" height="425"></a>
Over the 2014-15 financial year, 15.7% of individuals claimed net rent. Overall, 6.0% of individuals claimed a net rent profit, and 9.7% of individuals claimed a loss.
The data also highlights that a relatively small proportion of individuals actually own an investment property, but the portion is growing. In the 2004-05 financial year, 13.6% of individuals claimed net rent. In 1994-95, the figure was 11.3%.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/04/21/rsz_net_rental_profit.png" target="_blank">CLICK TO ENLARGE</a>
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/04/21/rsz_net_rental_profit.png" width="700" height="425">
The above table breaks down the proportion of total individuals that are claiming a net rental profit or loss by their age.  Individuals aged 70 to 74 years of age are the most likely to be claiming a net rental profit while individuals aged between 50 and 54 years of age are the most likely to be claiming a net rental loss.
If we look at the proportion of total net rental loss/profit claimants by age group, the trends are quite interesting.  Less than a quarter (24.4%) of those individuals claiming a net rental profit are less than 45 years of age.  Conversely, almost half of those individuals claiming a net rental loss over the year were under 45.   The table shows that as an individual ages, they are increasingly less likely to be claiming a net rental loss.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/04/21/rsz_average_net_rental.png" target="_blank">CLICK TO ENLARGE</a>
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/04/21/rsz_average_net_rental.png" width="700" height="425">
Looking at the average net rental profit/loss by age group shows that older individuals are likely to claim greater net rental profits.  At the same time, individuals aged between 50 to 54 years of age are likely to be claiming the greatest losses.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/04/21/rsz_loss_by_income.png" target="_blank">CLICK TO ENLARGE</a>
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/04/21/rsz_loss_by_income.png" width="700" height="425">
Individuals with a taxable income of between $500,001 and $1 million are most likely to be claiming a net rental profit while individuals earning between $40,000 and $50,000 are the least likely to claim net rental profits.  In terms of net rental losses, 23.8% of all individuals with taxable incomes between $250,001 and $500,000, as well as $500,001 and $1 million, are claiming net rental losses.  As taxable incomes increase, the data shows that these individuals are overall more likely to own rental properties and therefore claim either a net rental profit or loss.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/04/21/rsz_claimants_of_net_rental.png" target="_blank">CLICK TO ENLARGE</a>
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/04/21/rsz_claimants_of_net_rental.png" width="700" height="425">
Looking only at those individuals claiming a net rental profit or loss, the most likely to be claiming either have a taxable income of $100,001 to $150,000.  The least likely income range to be claiming a net rental loss or profit are those with a taxable income of more than $1 million.The above table shows the average net rental profit or loss claimed by taxable income ranges. People with a higher taxable income generally receive both the greatest average net rental profits and net rental losses.  
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/04/21/rsz_the_number_of_individuals_claiming_a_net_rental_loss_has_flat_lined_over_recent_years___1.png" target="_blank">CLICK TO RESIZE</a>
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Previous data has shown that relatively few people sit in the higher taxable income brackets however, those that do and own an investment property enjoy substantially greater average profit or loss from those rental properties.
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The final table highlights the number of individuals with interests in rental properties over the three most recent years along with how many properties they have an interest in. Overwhelmingly most people that have an interest in a rental property have an interest in only one with 90.3% of individuals having an interest in two or fewer rental properties.  
Over the most recent year, the number of individuals with an interest in five properties has recorded the greatest growth (7.4%) followed by: six or more properties (5.3%), four properties (4.5%), three properties (4.0%), two properties (3.4 properties) and one property (1.7%).
The data provides great insight into the characteristics of property investors.  The data shows that just under 16% of individuals are property investors and, over recent years, the number claiming a net rental loss has been relatively unchanged.  
Furthermore, as interest rates have fallen, relatively fewer individuals are claiming a net rental loss.  As you would expect, people in the middle of their working life are most likely to be claiming net rental losses and older individuals are most likely to be earning a profit from their rental property.  Those on higher incomes tend to claim higher average net rental profits and losses.  
Finally, for most Australians that own a rental property, they only own one. However, individuals with a greater number of investment properties have been experiencing faster growth than those with relatively few properties over recent years. With interest rates having fallen even further since June 2015 we would anticipate that the total value of net rental losses has also reduced.  At the same time we have seen investment lending become more active since mid-2015. 
It will be interesting to see if that reflects a greater number of individuals owning investment properties, or those that already own investment properties buying more.  We will have to wait until next year’s data to see how this plays out.
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The number of individuals claiming a net rental loss has flat-lined over recent years: Cameron Kusher

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Auction volumes are set to markedly increase this weekend, with 1,586 auctions scheduled to take place in capital cities around Australia, according to data from CoreLogic. The figure is up from 493 last week, when auction activity slowed down over the Easter period.
Melbourne is expected to see the most significant increase in volumes over the week, with 743 properties to go to auction, up from 102 last week. 
Across Sydney, auction volumes are set to double, with 543 auctions scheduled to take place, increasing from 279 last week. 
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Outside of Sydney and Melbourne, each of the remaining capital cities will also see a higher number of auctions this week compared to last week.
Victoria has the busiest suburbs for auctions this week, with 19 homes set to go under the hammer in Craigieburn, followed by Glen Waverley, Melbourne and Werribee where each will host 12 auctions.
Overall auction activity is also set to be higher than the corresponding week last year, which recorded 1,565.
The Easter period saw a decrease of auction activity  across the combined capital cities, with a total of 493 auctions held, down significantly from 3,517 auctions the week prior when the busiest week for auctions so far this year was recorded. 
The final auction clearance rate fell slightly, from 74.8 per cent the previous week to 73.9 per cent last week.
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Melbourne was the best performing capital city auction market last week, with 81.3 per cent of the 102 auctions successful. However, Sydney had the highest volume of auctions, with 279 held and a clearance rate of 77.0 per cent. 
Across the smaller capital cities, clearance rates improved week-on-week in Adelaide, Canberra and Perth, however volumes were significantly lower across each market last week compared to the week prior.
Across the non-capital city auction markets, the Geelong region recorded the strongest clearance rate at 94.7 per cent, while the Gold Coast had the highest number of auctions (34). 
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