One of Brisbane's last major riverfront redevelopment opportunities has taken a significant step forward, with Lendlease selected as the Queensland Government's preferred development partner for the former Visy site in South Brisbane.

The seven-hectare industrial site, positioned between South Bank and West End and 1.3 kilometres from the Brisbane CBD, will be transformed into a mixed-use precinct expected to deliver more than 4,000 new homes alongside extensive public open space and riverfront parkland.

The project is one of the largest urban renewal opportunities currently planned in Brisbane and is expected to play a key role in accommodating the city's growing population ahead of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Plans for the precinct include a network of riverfront promenades and boardwalks, new public plazas, parkland, amphitheatre-style gathering spaces and shared pedestrian and cycling links designed to reconnect the long-isolated site with the Brisbane River.

The Queensland Government is targeting delivery of the first homes and key public spaces before the 2032 Games, allowing the precinct to begin contributing new housing and public amenity well before the broader masterplan is complete.

The redevelopment is also expected to support more than 3,000 jobs across planning, construction and ongoing operations.

For Lendlease, the appointment adds another major urban regeneration project to its Queensland portfolio. The developer has operated in the state for more than 70 years and has delivered a number of large-scale mixed-use precincts in partnership with government.

Lendlease Development CEO Claire Johnston said the project represented one of Brisbane's most significant redevelopment opportunities.

"The transformation of the former Visy site represents a rare opportunity to reimagine one of Brisbane's most significant riverfront locations, deliver thousands of much-needed homes, and create long-term legacy," Johnston said.

"In partnership with the Queensland Government, we have the opportunity to create a new riverside destination that will help shape Brisbane's growth and how people experience the city for decades to come.

"This is exactly the type of large-scale, city-shaping development that will provide lasting benefits for Queensland, bringing together housing, jobs and world-class public spaces."

Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jarrod Bleijie said the riverfront transformation would deliver a thriving new community precinct.

“The Crisafulli Government is delivering this golden opportunity to unlock a riverfront jewel for all Queenslanders,” Deputy Premier Bleijie said.

“This is a once-in-a-generation moment to reshape a significant slice of Brisbane and deliver lasting benefits – thousands of new homes, and public spaces for all Queenslanders to enjoy well beyond the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games – unlike Labor’s plan which would have delivered zero benefits and zero new homes.

“Queensland is well and truly open for business and through partnership with the private sector, we are accelerating delivery while ensuring strong housing, community and economic outcomes."

Early works on the precinct are expected to commence in April 2027.

Joel Robinson

Lendlease selected to deliver transformative South Brisbane riverfront precinct

Eddy Haddad's <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/level-33">Level 33</a> is levelling up its approved Wollongong development, as the coastal city south of Sydney continues to prove popular in the high-density development space.

Level 33, a longtime developer in the Wollongong area, has gone through the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority to upsize its approved two-tower development on the corner of Crown Street and Gladstone Avenue, just 100 metres from Wollongong Station.

The developer currently has approval for 252 apartments across two buildings rising to 19 storeys. It is now seeking approval for 33 and 38-storey towers that would deliver 467 apartments, including 67 affordable homes.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bka-architecture">BKA Architecture</a>, the development would comprise apartments above a three-level podium with around 1,100 sqm of retail space, along with basement parking for 448 vehicles.

According to the Urban Design Report by BKA, the proposal has the capacity to "reinforce the precinct's identity by strengthening links between health, education, and transport services, while also contributing to Wollongong's ongoing evolution as a key regional centre."

Wollongong is somewhat in vogue. Between Level 33 and Urban Property Group, the two developers have several thousand apartments planned across the city.

Level 33 is currently delivering Easterly Wollongong, one of its most boutique projects to date with just 21 high-end apartments, as well as Atchison &amp; Kenny, a 329-apartment development due for completion later this year.

The developer plans to redevelop the 13,088 sqm WIN Grand megasite into <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/crown-square-216-238-keira-street-wollongong-nsw-2500">Crown Square</a>, a new $500 million precinct with nearly 600 apartments. It also has more than 900 apartments planned for the former Bunnings Warehouse site at the intersection of Gipps and Flinders streets.

Urban Property Group is also playing a major role in the city's transformation. Its five-tower Keira Place precinct will deliver more than 800 homes, and it has recently lodged plans for a further 300 apartments near Wollongong Station.

First look: Level 33 upsizes Wollongong apartment towers

Just a week after filing plans for the final stage of its major Keira Place masterplan, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> has unveiled another significant housing proposal in Wollongong, this time targeting a prominent site opposite North Wollongong Station.

The developer has lodged a State Significant Development Application for a 38-storey mixed-use tower at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/4-4a-flinders-street-north-wollongong-nsw-2500">4-4A Flinders Street</a>, around one kilometre north of the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/keira-place-wollongong-120-122-smith-street-wollongong-nsw-2500">Keira Place precinct</a> currently taking shape on the edge of the CBD.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group plans 38-storey North Wollongong tower as Keira Place expansion gathers pace" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2b6428f1-6405-4038-8476-897de440e90d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/flinders%20podium.png?VersionId=QLqEvK0OuCEwRC47oHNftrw2B1YqaHF8" />

Designed by Studio.SC, the proposal comprises a 38-storey mixed-use development containing 303 apartments, including 45 affordable housing units, alongside 174 co-living residences. The scheme also includes ground-floor retail space, extensive landscaping and public domain improvements.

Studio.SC noted in the proposal it "outlines a vision for a landmark transit-oriented mixed-use development centred around North Wollongong Station, designed to support the city’s future growth while responding to the NSW Government’s housing and planning reforms."

The architecture firm said the proposal responds to the opportunities and constraints shaping future growth within the 400-metre catchment of the station and represents "a coordinated and future-focused approach to urban intensification, contributing to the long-term evolution of North Wollongong as a connected, walkable and high-density station precinct."

The site occupies a strategic corner bounded by Flinders Street, Station Street, Stafford Street and the Princes Highway, directly opposite North Wollongong Station.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group plans 38-storey North Wollongong tower as Keira Place expansion gathers pace" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7863adad-1f71-4022-b850-f44b252738fd" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/flinders%20podium%20a.png?VersionId=WsU7av0g8_8R2tGHWxgHeFSlhu7yeY1V" />

The proposal follows Urban Property Group's recent submission for the second and final stage of Keira Place, which would deliver a further three buildings comprising 657 homes opposite Beaton Park. It builds on the first stage, which features 150 apartments across two towers and recently commenced construction.

Urban Property Group CEO Patrick Elias said breaking ground on the first stage marked a significant milestone for Wollongong and reflected the developer's long-term commitment to regional cities.

"Today's groundbreaking is about turning approvals into homes and moving quickly to deliver much-needed housing in Wollongong's city centre," Elias said.

"Keira Place will provide a diverse mix of homes close to jobs, transport and services, while setting a high benchmark for quality, durability and consumer protection."

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/urban-property-group-unveils-trio-of-towers-for-next-stage-of-new-wollongong-precinct-keira-place">Urban Property Group unveils trio of towers for next stage of new Wollongong precinct, Keira Place</a>

First look: Urban Property Group plans next major Wollongong tower

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/arada">Arada</a> has wasted little time expanding its ambitions in Campsie, lodging plans for a second major project in the rapidly transforming town centre just months after unveiling its three-tower One Campsie proposal on Beamish Street.

The UAE-backed developer has now taken aim at one of the suburb’s most strategically positioned sites, filing a State Significant Development Application for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/10-north-parade-campsie-nsw-2194">33-storey mixed-use tower</a> at 10 London Street and 43 North Parade, directly opposite the future Campsie Metro Station. The proposal is currently on public exhibition and represents another significant vote of confidence in Campsie's emergence as one of Sydney’s key transit-oriented growth centres.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a>, the development would deliver 156 apartments above a podium containing retail and commercial space, creating a new residential and commercial gateway to the town centre. The scheme also includes a four-level above-ground parking podium and a dedicated residential amenity floor featuring wellness and recreation facilities. At least 10 per cent of the apartments would be allocated as affordable housing for a period of 10 years.

The proposal occupies a 1,631 sqm site bounded by London Street, North Parade and Dispensary Lane, immediately adjoining the future Metro station precinct and just metres from Beamish Street’s retail and dining strip. According to the Urban Design Report, the project seeks to deliver "a great place that prioritises human-scaled experience and provides spatial improvements to the area."

<img alt="First look: Arada doubles down in Campsie with 33-storey Metro-front tower plans" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="175a8324-015b-4856-abe3-ce6f23199fa7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/podium%20campsie.png?VersionId=742UGwXFhFBX4GEl6wX4PYIWREAgn6il" />

Woods Bagot describes the tower as a key marker within Campsie's next phase of growth.

"Located directly opposite the new Campsie Metro Station on North Parade, 10 London Street is a thoughtfully composed 33-storey mixed-use tower that contributes to the ongoing transformation of the town centre," the Architectural Design Report states. The report says the project is intended to provide "high-quality homes within a vibrant, connected urban environment, while helping define Campsie's future skyline."

A strong emphasis has been placed on the public realm. The ground floor incorporates over 500 sqm of retail space and active frontages along both London Street and North Parade, while the podium is wrapped by extensive landscaped planting intended to soften the building's scale and strengthen the pedestrian experience. The development would also widen surrounding footpaths and improve connections between the Metro station and the broader town centre.

Above the podium, residents would have access to more than 1,400 sqm of communal amenities, including a pool, gym and landscaped recreation spaces. A distinctive green-wall treatment extending across four podium levels forms a major architectural feature, helping differentiate the project within the emerging high-density precinct.

The tower's design is closely tied to the broader Campsie Town Centre Master Plan and the arrival of Sydney Metro. The Urban Design Report notes the proposal "directly supports the Campsie Town Centre Master Plan by delivering new homes in a location explicitly identified for growth, improved accessibility, and high-quality urban renewal." It adds that the project contributes to the master plan's vision for a strengthened town centre supported by thousands of new homes around the future Metro station.

<img alt="First look: Arada doubles down in Campsie with 33-storey Metro-front tower plans" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bfd17654-253e-489a-bade-6278d63db412" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/base%20campsie.png?VersionId=3roJPMQGs36dazpkhvpvbDDP73Ld.Ica" />

The application follows Arada's recently lodged One Campsie project at 124–142 Beamish Street and 16–18 Ninth Avenue, where the developer is seeking approval for 346 apartments across three towers rising 24, 32 and 39 storeys. Together, the two proposals would cement Arada as one of the most influential developers shaping Campsie's future urban form.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-arada-files-for-trio-of-apartment-towers-in-campsie-town-centre">First Look: Arada files for trio of apartment towers in Campsie town centre</a>

Arada entered the Australian market in 2024 and has rapidly assembled a significant development pipeline across Sydney. Alongside its Campsie holdings, the developer is soon to launch <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/wattle-green-2-fishburn-crescent-castle-hill-nsw-2154">Wattle Green</a> in Castle Hill, and has expanded its local operations following its acquisition of construction firm Roberts &amp; Co.

Located around 14 kilometres south-west of the Sydney CBD, the site sits at the centre of one of Sydney's fastest-changing middle-ring precincts. The Metro conversion of Campsie Station, combined with Canterbury-Bankstown Council's master planning framework, is driving significant residential intensification around Beamish Street and North Parade, with thousands of new homes expected over coming decades.

First look: Arada doubles down in Campsie with 33-storey Metro-front tower plans

For the first time in a long time, Australia's inflation story is starting to look more like a landing than a fight.

The latest Consumer Price Index figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics showed annual inflation eased to four per cent in May, down from 4.2 per cent in April. On the surface, that might not seem like a major move. Inflation remains above the Reserve Bank's target range and some categories continue to record stubborn price growth.

But the significance of this result lies less in where inflation sits today and more in what it means for where interest rates are likely heading next.

The biggest takeaway is that inflation continues to move in the right direction.

Markets had been bracing for another sticky result after a period where progress appeared to stall. Instead, headline inflation came in softer than expected, helped by falling fuel prices and easing transport costs. Annual transport inflation halved from 6.6 per cent in April to 3.3 per cent in May, while automotive fuel prices fell 11.9 per cent during the month following lower oil prices and the impact of reduced fuel excise measures.

While petrol prices don't solve Australia's affordability challenges, they are one of the most visible and immediate costs for consumers. Falling fuel costs feed through the economy quickly, helping ease pressure on household budgets and business operating expenses.

The ABS data also showed headline inflation is now sitting at its lowest annual level in several months, reinforcing the broader trend that price growth is gradually moderating.

That trend is important because it aligns with what many economists and lenders have been saying for the last month.

Prior to this week's inflation data, ANZ, NAB and Commonwealth Bank had all shifted their forecasts, now believing the Reserve Bank had likely reached the peak of the interest rate cycle. Following the May inflation release, ANZ reaffirmed that view.

In its latest economic update, ANZ said it expects quarterly trimmed mean inflation to come in at 3.7 per cent for the June quarter, slightly below the Reserve Bank's forecast of 3.8 per cent. Importantly, the bank said that outcome, when combined with slowing economic activity, "supports our view that the cash rate has peaked".

The Reserve Bank has spent the better part of three years attempting to bring inflation under control through higher interest rates. If Australia's major banks are correct and rates have now peaked, the conversation shifts from how much higher rates could go to when they might begin coming down.

Westpac's caution comes from underlying inflation. The trimmed mean, the measure most closely watched by the Reserve Bank, increased from 3.4 per cent to 3.6 per cent annually. Housing inflation remains elevated at 6.5 per cent, reflecting ongoing increases in rents, electricity costs and new dwelling construction.

Electricity prices remain particularly problematic, rising 21.1 per cent over the past year following the removal of government rebates.

Housing construction costs are also showing signs of renewed pressure. ANZ noted new dwelling costs rose 0.9 per cent in May and are now running at an annualised pace of 8.6 per cent over the past three months. Builders continue to face higher labour, fuel and material costs, a reminder that inflationary pressures have not completely disappeared.

Housing affordability has deteriorated largely because of higher interest rates rather than higher property prices alone. Even modest reductions in mortgage rates would improve borrowing capacity, increase buyer confidence and reduce repayment pressure on existing homeowners.

While August is far from a certainty, the latest inflation result has strengthened the view that the next move in rates is more likely to be down than up. For borrowers, buyers and the development sector, that alone represents a significant shift from the conversation that dominated much of the past two years.

The inflation result the property market was waiting for

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?

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The Melbourne house market saw significant growth in the two years to 2014/15, with the median house price growing by 11.4% and 16.9% in 2013/14 and 2014/15 respectively, according to QBE's latest housing report.
Underlying demand has been underpinned by strong population growth over this period.
Net overseas migration into Victoria has averaged 55,400 persons per annum in the four years to 2015/16; above its 15–year average of 49,200 per annum. Net interstate migration has also been improving. Based on published data to December 2015, Victoria is on track to experience a record net inflow of 11,000 persons in 2015/16.
<img src="/images/2016/10/14/Chart%2020.jpg" alt="">
This population growth has continued to maintain a deficiency of dwellings in the Melbourne market despite continued growth in new dwelling supply. This deficiency, together with low interest rates, has driven purchaser demand.
However, median house price growth has slowed in 2015/16 to 4.8%. Further rises in new dwelling supply have taken the market almost back into balance, reducing the pressure on prices. Investor demand has also weakened in 2015/16 due to regulatory pressures, and the net result has been slowing price growth.
The slowing market has been most felt in the Inner and Middle rings of Melbourne, where median house price growth was a minimal 0.7% and 2.8% respectively in 2015/16. In contrast, median house price growth in Outer Melbourne was 10% in 2015/16 as stronger price growth moved into the more affordable regions of Melbourne.
Without experiencing a large benefit in economic activity from the boom in resource sector investment in the prior years, Victoria has been relatively insulated from the tapering off in mining investment compared to the resource– driven states. This should sustain an elevated migration inflow, although the net inflow is forecast to nevertheless weaken.
Many of Victoria’s trade exposed and service industries have benefited from a lower Australian dollar over the past two to three years. However, the dollar has been creeping upwards again through 2016, maintaining pressure on these sectors and preventing further investment.
Moreover, further headwinds will emerge in the short term as the automotive manufacturing sector sees all three remaining locally based car manufacturers close their production facilities across 2016 and 2017. Negative impact on employment across the entire supply chain is likely to weigh heavily on the local economies focused in the outer suburbs.
<a href="/images/2016/10/14/Table%206.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/10/14/Table%206.jpg" alt="">
Melbourne also faces a significant supply pipeline that will see dwelling completions peak in 2016/17 and tip the market into oversupply. With population growth also expected to ease through the forecast period and lead to weaker underlying demand, this oversupply is forecast to steadily increase through to 2018/19.
While expected to be mainly in the unit sector, there is likely to still be flow on impact in the housing market.
Rising vacancy rates are expected to result in a further retreat from the market by investors, who were already declining in demand due to tightening lending policies by the banks. While there is expected to be enough momentum in the market to drive limited median house price growth of 2% in 2016/17, price growth is forecast to be negative in 2017/18 and 2018/19 as Victoria’s oversupply continues to increase, with a cumulative fall of 3% over the two years resulting in an aggregate 0.6% decline over the forecast period.
The unit market has underperformed in comparison to the house market with median unit prices growing 13% compared to median house price growth of 36% over the three years to June 2016. This reflects the growth in new supply with unit completions far surpassing completions in houses over the same period.
The high levels of unit construction have added significant supply to the market. While a modest aggregate dwelling deficiency is estimated at June 2016, the unit market is estimated to be in oversupply.
Record levels of apartment completions, as well as a strong project pipeline expected though to 2017/18, is likely to continue to impact vacancy rates, rental growth and unit prices. At the state level, the oversupply in dwellings is expected to grow through to 2019 with the excess concentrated in the unit sector.
This excess is also expected to be compounded by changes to investor lending guidelines which have already started to impact investor demand. Melbourne’s median unit price is forecast to decline by a total of 9% over the three year period to $480,000 by June 2019.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Melbourne's apartment oversupply to impact on entire housing market: QBE Housing Outlook

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The NT, SA and WA housing markets are a either beginning to rebound or approaching the bottom of the market, according to Herron Todd White’s latest monthly market report.
The property advisory firm says that these areas are in a reasonably balanced position with Darwin and Perth reporting an oversupply of houses.
The demand for houses is fair across the board with only Darwin, Perth and South West WA's market softening, while the volume of houses being sold remains stable.
<a href="/images/2016/10/14/NT%20units.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/10/14/NT%20units.jpg" alt="">
Units in the NT, SA and WA areas, however, are currently either at the bottom of the property cycle market or approaching.
HTW report a steady amount of units being sold with only Darwin, Perth and South West WA reporting a decline in units being sold.
Darwin and Perth's rental vacancy unit market is increasing.
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Units in NT, SA and WA areas at bottom of property market cycle despite steady unit sales: HTW

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Rents in the capital cities continue to decline with asking rents down by 0.5% over the past 12 months, according to CoreLogic's latest report.
The combined capital house asking rent deteriorated by 0.8% year on year to August 2016, while asking unit rents rose slightly by 0.7% year on year.
Hobart was the standout performer across the last the last 12 months, asking rents for houses rising by 6.0% and units 14.3%. 
The gains in the country's most southerly capital was offset by the falls in the most northerly. 
Darwin has seen the most significant change with annual house rents down by 10.8% while units are down by 27.9%.
<a href="/images/2016/10/07/Rent%20declining.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/10/07/Rent%20declining.jpg" alt="">
 
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Asking rents in decline: CoreLogic

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Property expert John McGrath has encouraged first home buyers to look deeper into the grants and stamp duty concessions available to them. 
In his latest his latest Switzer blog he says with first home buying across Australia at its lowest level in more than a decade he wants to encourage young people to re-think their position, adding every single state and territory in Australia is currently offering assistance to first home buyers – and not just on new property purchases either.
"Every now and then the rules change and young people need to keep abreast of these changes so they can best take advantage of them," he said.
"For example, did you know the Queensland Government has introduced a $5,000 boost to their First Home Owners’ Grant for this financial year only? This is a one-off, one-year boost to the grant from $15,000 to $20,000 that will end on June 30, 2017.
"While it’s true that all grants are limited to newly-built, off-the-plan or substantially renovated properties, some stamp duty concessions apply to both new and established homes.
"It’s really worth taking the time to check out exactly what assistance is available to you, especially with interest rates at such record lows and likely to stay this way indefinitely. If you put these two factors together, motivated first home buyers can do very well right now.
"Although affordability is a big hurdle in cities like Sydney, I see a major opportunity ahead for young buyers in prime east coast markets.
"That opportunity is the impending oversupply of new apartment stock in Melbourne, Brisbane and to a slightly lesser extent, Sydney. Where a market is oversupplied, prices fall. It’s that simple and that means opportunities for buyers.
"The impending apartment oversupply means first home buyers will be able to:
<ul>
<li>    Buy for a better price</li>
<li>    Have more negotiating power</li>
<li>    Have more choice of property available to them</li>
<li>    Have more time on their side to choose their next home</li>
<li>    Get tens of thousands of dollars in grants and duty concessions to assist them</li>
</ul>
He gave a few few words of caution for potential buyers to heed when buying in an oversupplied market.
"You have to be careful in your choice of location. Pick a desirable area close to amenities with easy access to major employment hubs. Once the oversupply has been absorbed (which might take a few years), prices will begin rising again in good quality suburbs.
"Be careful in your choice of product. Focus on good quality developments and choose an apartment that has some unique features, such as a particularly large floor plan, generous balconies or courtyards, great privacy, views or a north aspect. Avoid small uninspiring apartments in developments where every property is the same.
"Shop around for finance. Some lenders are avoiding certain postcodes (primarily central CBD areas) not because they’re bad areas to buy in, but because the oversupply creates too much short-term risk for the banks. So you’ll need to talk to a broker to find out which lenders are appropriate for you if you want to buy in these areas.
"Buy for the long term. I can’t stress this enough. The oversupply will take some time to run its course. Don’t put yourself in a situation where you need to sell during the oversupply period. Oversupplies are only advantageous to buyers.
"Here is a brief overview of the grants and stamp duty concessions available in each state and territory. For more comprehensive information, go to <a href="https://www.firsthome.gov.au" target="_blank">www.firsthome.gov.au</a>."
New South Wales
Grants
Name: First Home Owner Grant (New Homes) scheme
Eligible price point: $750,000 or less
Eligible properties: New homes
Amount: $10,000
Stamp duty concessions
Name: First Home – New Home scheme
Eligible price point: Full exemption up to $550,000, concessional rates for new homes valued between $550,000 and $650,000
Eligible properties: New homes
Victoria
Grants
Name: First Home Owner Grant
Eligible price point: $750,000 or less
Eligible properties: New homes
Amount: $10,000
Stamp duty concessions
Name: First home buyer duty reduction
Eligible price point: $600,000 or less
Eligible properties: All properties
Amount: Up to 50% discount on stamp duty
Note: A second scheme called the Off-the-Plan Concession provides a further discount specifically for off-the-plan purchases
Queensland
Grants
Name: First Home Owners’ Grant
Eligible price point: $750,000 or less
Eligible properties: New homes
Amount: $20,000 until June 30, 2017
Stamp duty concessions
Name: First Home Concession
Eligible price point: $550,000 or less
Eligible properties: All properties
Amount: Stamp duty exempt to $500,000, sliding scale from $500,000 - $549,000 
Note: A second scheme called the Home Concession provides stamp duty concessions on all properties at any price point purchased for owner-occupation. If your first home is above $550,000, you can apply for a concession through this scheme
Australian Capital Territory
Grants
Name: First Home Owner Grant
Eligible price point: $750,000 or less
Eligible properties: New homes
Amount: $10,000
Stamp duty concessions
Name: Home Buyer Concession Scheme
Eligible price point: Full concession up to $455,000; sliding scale to $585,000
Eligible properties: New homes
Other criteria: Gross income thresholds apply. For example, the threshold for applicants without children is $160,000. You do not need to be a first home buyer but you cannot have owned property for the past two years
Amount: Stamp duty reduced to just $20 on properties worth $455,000 or less
Western Australia
Grants
Name: First Home Owner Grant
Eligible price point: $750,000 cap on properties south of the 26th parallel (i.e. Perth metropolitan areas) and $1 million cap on homes north of the 26th parallel
Eligible properties: New homes
Amount: $10,000
Stamp duty concessions
Name: First Home Owner Rate of Duty
Eligible price point: $530,000 or less
Eligible properties: All properties
Amount: Stamp duty exempt on homes worth $430,000 or less. Sliding scale of concessions on homes valued $431,000 - $530,000
South Australia
Grants
Name: First Home Owner Grant
Eligible price point: $575,000 or less
Eligible properties: New homes
Amount: $15,000
Stamp duty concessions
Name: Off-the-Plan Apartment Concession
Eligible price point: No threshold
Eligible properties: Off-the-plan apartments
Amount: Partial concessions available until June 30, 2017. Amount depends on the stage of construction at the time of purchase
Northern Territory
Grants
Name: First Home Owner Grant
Eligible price point: No threshold
Eligible properties: New homes
Amount: $26,000 plus a further grant of up to $2,000 under the Household Goods Grant Scheme
Stamp duty concessions
Name: First Home Owner Discount
Eligible price point: $650,000 or less
Eligible properties: Established properties
Amount: Stamp duty exempt up to $500,000; sliding scale to $650,000. Flat $10,000 duty discount for homes worth more than $650,000
Tasmania
Grants
Name: First Home Owner Grant
Eligible price point: No threshold
Eligible properties: New homes
Amount: $20,000 until June 30, 2017 and $10,000 from July 1, 2017
Stamp duty concessions
None available
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jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

John McGrath sees big opportunities for first home buyers

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Auctions in Sydney are expected to cool this weekend along with Melbourne, however Melbourne's listings could still make for one of the biggest state auction weekends so far this year.
Listings slated to go under the hammer in Sydney are around 600, down from last week's 673 with the inner west the busiest region with 95 auctions. Some 796 auctions were held over the same weekend last year.
In Melbourne, the super Saturday weekend before Derby Day, hosts some 1190 auctions this Saturday but that figure is 20 percent down on the same weekend last year. This year is the smallest for a super Saturday since 2012, according to Domain Group.
In Sydney, homebuyers in continue to be constrained for choice compared with the record offerings auctioned over spring last year according to Andrew Wilson from the Domain Group.
"The inner west continues its reign as Sydney’s most popular region for Saturday auctions this weekend with 95 listings. Next highest is the upper north shore with 84, followed by the city and east 77, the south 74, the lower north 59, the south-west, west and north-west each with 42, the northern beaches 41, Canterbury Bankstown 37, the central coast 18 and the Blue Mountains with just one auction scheduled this weekend," he said.
"Randwick, Lane Cove North, Epping and Carlingford lead the pack as the most popular auction suburbs in Sydney this weekend. Next highest is Drummoyne with nine, followed by Baulkham Hills eight and a number of suburbs with seven auctions scheduled, including Lane Cove, Maroubra, Killara, Wahroonga, Strathfield, Stanmore and Marrickville.
"The Sydney weekend auction market recaptured its boom-time vibe last weekend with the clearance rate moving back into the 80s in a spring market that continues to blossom."
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Sydney's auction cooling, Melbourne's super Saturday listings smallest since 2012

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The $280 million Esplanade mixed-use development in Sydney's north west, located at Norwest Lake, has been given the green light by the Sydney West Joint Regional Planning Panel.
Construction of Esplanade is expected to start in 2017 with prices for a one-bedroom unit starting from $525,000 and two-bedroom apartments with parking starting from $725,000.
A number of premium lakefront apartments have been released, and the penthouse collection due for release soon.
The development also features four-bedroom penthouses called Sky Residences, expected to be released to the market early 2017.
All commercial suites and more than 60 percent of the apartments have already sold pre-DA, according to Capital Corporation managing director Steve Grant.
"This approval from the JRPP is great news for the many people who have shown their confidence in what we’ve proposed by purchasing prior to approval," he said.
"More than 85 percent of buyers are local to the area and keen to stay connected to the community they love but want the change of lifestyle that Esplanade offers,” he says.
 “We’ve had the chance to incorporate feedback from Council and the Norwest Business Association and we’re delighted with the outcome. We’re even more excited for the buyers who will be very pleased to see their new home progress.
 "Enquiry for apartments remained constant, with downsizers, families and investors all drawn to the ‘all-in-one vertical village’ concept and the array of resort-like facilities."
The <a href="https://esplanadenorwest.com.au/leisure-and-lifestyle-is-norwests-new-business.php" target="_blank">Esplanade development</a> will feature two towers – one 19 storeys and the other 20 storeys – with 247 apartments in a mix of one, two and three bedroom layouts, a pool, gym, open-air cinema and landscaped gardens as well as 6,000sqm of waterfront retail space and three levels of boutique commercial suites.
For more information, call 1800 088 800 or visit the sales suite at 11 Solent Circuit, Baulkham Hills, from noon to 3pm on Wednesdays to Sundays.
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Green Light for Norwest's $280M Esplanade mixed-use development

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Greaton releases to the market stage one in its $260 million Oxford Central project located in the Sydney suburb of Epping this weekend.
Marchese Partners has designed 30 - 42 Oxford Street which comprises 252 luxurious apartments spread across two 17 storey towers, 292 car spaces and 625 sq m of retail on the ground level.
A two storey heritage building located on the site will also be retained and is part of the retail precinct.
David Milton, Managing Director of CBRE and head sales agent for Oxford Central said Greaton was delivering "a boutique quality product to the area which is set to captivate buyers.”
Dorothy Novak, National Marketing Manager for Greaton said Epping, was one of Sydney’s most liveable and connected destinations.
"The CBD, major employment hubs and road, bus and train networks are all within close proximity to the project."
<img src="/images/2016/10/20/Epping_Living_email.jpg" alt="">
“We aim to create a superior lifestyle destination that will suite a wide range of purchasers.
"Whether you are a first home buyer seeking an affordable apartment, business owner looking for a study room or investor seeking a dwelling with strong potential for capital growth, Oxford Central caters for everyone.”
The first tower known as Centrale will be released as part of stage one and comprises seven one bedroom apartments, 111 two bedders, and 11 with three bedrooms.
<img src="/images/2016/10/20/Epping_Bedroom_email.jpg" alt="">
Prices for apartments start at $525,000 for a one bed with an average internal size of 52 to 55 sq m, two beds start at $815,000 featuring an internal average size of 74 to 85 sq m and three beds are priced from $1.1 million with an internal space averaging between 99 to 120 sq m.
The apartment interiors will have Caesarstone benchtops with timber accents on the cupboards, two distinctive spring and autumn colour palettes to choose from supported by elegant timber floors, Miele appliances in the kitchen, Parisi fittings throughout, imported tiles wrapped around the floor and walls in the bathroom, floor to ceiling glass sliding doors and expansive balconies.
An open air café area and public plaza will feature alongside the Heritage building which fronts Oxford Central and will be accessible to the public.
Residents will also have communal open space on the ground level which include recreational and BBQ facilities.
<img src="/images/2016/10/20/Epping_Balcony_email.jpg" alt="">
It is 150 metres from Epping Train Station, Sydney’s CBD is approximately 22 kilometres and Parramatta, Macquarie Park and North Ryde are a short 10 kilometre commute.
Epping Boys High, Cheltenham Girls High, James Ruse High, Epping North Public School, Epping West Public School as well as private schools such as Loreto and The Kings School and Macquarie University are all within 10 kilometres from Oxford Central.
A state of the art display suite is located on site at 30 – 42 Oxford St opened October 8.
For further information visit: <a href="https://www.oxfordcentral.com.au" target="_blank">www.oxfordcentral.com.au</a> or phone 1800 917 997.
Greaton expects to start construction early in 2017.  
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Stage one launch set for Greaton's $260 million Oxford Central at Epping

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A block of 12 one bedroom apartments fronting Barangaroo Reserve in Millers Point has been listed for sale by Property NSW, on behalf of Family and Community Services.
The block is comprised of both heritage and modern apartments, and will be sold as one property.
The property is located on the corner of Merriman and Bettington Streets, with views of the western harbour, Harbour Bridge and the city skyline.
Any purchaser will need to adhere to the NSW Heritage Council-endorsed Conservation Management Plan (CMP). The CMP provides extensive detail on the types of works that are permitted on the property.
The property will be auctioned through Ray White and McGrath Estate Agents on November 30.
Proceeds from the Millers Point sales program will fund 1,500 new social housing dwellings across the State, with more than 600 new fit-for-purpose social housing dwellings funded to date.
A total of 103 Millers Point properties have so far been sold, delivering circa $280m for reinvestment in social housing across NSW.
The new block joins 15 other properties currently listed for sale, including 13 three-bedroom apartments in Windmill Street and duplex properties at 3 and 9 High Street.
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Block of 12 apartments listed at Millers Point

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Residential vacancy rates jumped in Middle Sydney as more stock has come onto the market, according to data released by the Real Estate Institute of New South Wales.
REINSW President John Cunningham said the September 2016 REINSW vacancy rate survey had Middle Sydney see a rise of 0.5 per cent to 2.1 per cent, leading a 0.1 per cent increase in the overall Sydney vacancy rate to 1.9 per cent.
“The Middle Sydney vacancy rate has been affected by more stock coming onto the market,” Mr Cunningham said.
<a href="/images/2016/10/17/Vacancy%20rate%201.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/10/17/Vacancy%20rate%201.jpg" alt="">
“Elsewhere across Sydney, the Inner Sydney vacancy rate fell 0.1 per cent to 1.8 per cent and Outer Sydney rose 0.1 per cent to 1.8 per cent,” Mr Cunningham said.
In the Hunter region, vacancy rates dropped 0.5 per cent to 2.2, led by a tightening of the Newcastle market at 1.9 per cent down 1.1 per cent.
<a href="/images/2016/10/17/Vacancy%20rate%202.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/10/17/Vacancy%20rate%202.jpg" alt="">
In the Illawarra region, vacancy rates are back at levels seen six months ago at 1.3 per cent down 0.3 per cent. Wollongong was up 0.2 per cent at 1.3 per cent.
Across regional areas, Albury was down 0.2 per cent at 2.9 per cent, Northern Rivers fell 0.3 per cent at 1.0 per cent and New England remained steady at 3.9 per cent.
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Rental vacancy accommodation in middle Sydney increases: REINSW

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Nearly 30 percent of first home buyers had to save for more than five years on order to save a deposit according to Mortgage Choice’s First Home Buyer survey.
Chief executive of Mortgage Choice John Flavell said it came as no surprise to find that 1 in every 3 first home buyers had to save for more than five years before buying their first home when house price growth continues to outpace the growth in incomes.
“Interestingly, while those first home buyers who bought a home within that last two years said it took them more than half a decade to save their property deposit, those who are planning to buy their first home soon believe it will only take them ‘one to two years’ to save their deposit,” he said.
“When it comes to buying property, first home buyers may feel as though two years is a long time to save, but in reality, saving for a property can take quite a while.
"Even if you’re a dedicated saver who diligently puts away a portion of your income into your savings, it’s still very time-consuming to save the amount you need for a deposit.
“And, with house prices consistently rising, the deposit size needed continues to grow.
“Day to day expenses such as groceries, rent, and transport costs, can also impact on a first home buyer’s ability to save.”
Mortgage Choice has five tips to help first home buyers reach their savings goal faster.
1. Have a realistic savings plan
Take control of your finances by drawing up a practical savings plan for the month. Factor in regular expenses such as going out, transport and rent, as well as any bills and debts. Consider what luxuries could be reduced as these will help make a difference to your savings capacity. At the end of the month, have a look at your plan and, if necessary, reassess your spending.    
2.Consider switching lenders
If you have kept your finances with the same lender since your first job, it might be a good idea to have a look around and consider switching to another bank. Today, some lenders are actually offering financial incentives if you switch, which could help you to boost your savings faster.
3.Sell your unused items
You could make some quick money by selling belongings you no longer use or need. Online outlets such as eBay and Gumtree are great places to put your items up for sale and watch the cash come in.
4.Pay off debts
Credit cards and personal loans can easily get out of hand if they are not managed properly. Paying off debts will not only maximise the amount you may be able to borrow when it comes to applying for a mortgage, but it will also help you free up some of your cash flow and allow you to save more money faster.
5.Save 10 percent of your income
Saving a designated amount of your income takes discipline, but it is financially rewarding. It is advisable to set up a savings account where you put in 10 percent of your pay as soon as it comes through. To reduce the temptation to spend it, you may want to open a savings account with a different lender and not get a debit card connected to the account.
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