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.

Joel Robinson

The inflation result the property market was waiting for

Commercial property group FiveX is doubling down on its move into the residential space.

The group, founded by Joshua and Marko Berger more than five decades ago, has followed up its plans for a 39-storey tower on North Sydney's Alfred Street with a proposed 61-storey tower in Chatswood.

The new tower at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/815-pacific-highway-chatswood-nsw-2067">815 Pacific Highway</a>, which would be one of the tallest proposed in Chatswood in recent years, will comprise 490 apartments, 76 of which will be dedicated affordable housing and managed by Evolve Housing for a minimum of 15 years.

The project will replace the long-standing Panorama Building, originally known as the BMA Tower, a 14-storey office building completed in 1972 and designed by Hungarian-born architect Hugo Stossel. At the time of its completion, the building was the tallest structure in Chatswood and became a local landmark due to its distinctive curved form and external glass lift.

<img alt="FiveX" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="956bd299-3864-47a0-8ea6-162b5524c5d8" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-24%20at%201.02.03%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=EWx7teUr7RcYrI9mgRytwppwt5AdUDtb" />

fjcstudio is behind the designs. Its Architectural Design Report argues the ageing commercial building no longer reflects Chatswood's role as one of Sydney's key strategic centres and that the site is ideally positioned to support significantly higher residential density.

"The site is located at the heart of Chatswood, within the TOD accelerated rezoning area that supports higher density development around the new Metro station," the report states.

"The site's role within a walkable 400-metre radius catchment is where housing, employment, retail and community uses are encouraged to cluster in support of transit-oriented living."

<img alt="fjc" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8d198f5e-cc71-4175-9357-be6ec7207473" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-24%20at%201.18.27%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=5WUFc3IYBPvhQMBUYLCsjJhzdcVeYodE" />

The proposal has undergone two rounds of review by the NSW State Design Review Panel, with the design evolving through an extensive assessment process focused on design excellence, public realm outcomes, residential amenity and the integration of affordable housing.

fjcstudio says the residential component provides a diverse mix of apartment typologies, supporting a broad demographic and contributing to housing supply in a highly accessible location close to major transport, employment and retail infrastructure.

The application follows FiveX's plans for a 39-storey tower at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/275-alfred-street-north-north-sydney-nsw-2060">275 Alfred Street</a>, which it <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/275-alfred-street-north-north-sydney-nsw-2060">submitted through the same NSW Government pathway</a> in December. That's for 184 apartments.

Recent activity in Chatswood includes Hyecorp launching its Archer Street project, Celine, and Develotek securing approval for a 34-storey tower.

First look: FiveX targets Chatswood skyline with 61-storey tower after North Sydney plans

Bridgewell Capital and SLD Development seem to be bullish on the Killara apartment market, filing plans for a second new development next to the Killara Golf Club.

The new plans are for 79 apartments across an amalgamated 4,989 sqm site on Buckingham Road.&nbsp;The project has been designed by BKA Architecture and is being assessed under the NSW Government's Low and Mid-Rise Housing and Infill Affordable Housing reforms. It is just 300 metres from&nbsp;Killara train station.

The majority of the apartments are three-bedrooms (46), with 23 two-bedroom apartments, seven one-beds, and three four-bedroom apartments. 17 of the apartments&nbsp;are proposed as affordable housing, representing 15 per cent of the project's gross floor area, allowing the development to access additional floor space and height incentives available under the NSW Housing SEPP.

There will be 131 resident and visitor car spaces, and more than&nbsp;1,450 sqm of communal open space. Landscaped areas would account for approximately 45 per cent of the site.

<img alt="Killara" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="75ef5ef7-a53b-4932-a8f1-38f63169eec9" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-24%20at%2011.04.00%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=d_lG1A1StDaMQilljy25Fr8SF1BnAmKE" />

The site currently contains three detached dwellings and occupies a prominent position on the eastern side of Buckingham Road, with frontage to an area that has already begun transitioning towards higher-density housing. Existing apartment buildings of up to six storeys surround the site, while the Killara Golf Club forms its southern boundary.

The application has been lodged as a State Significant Development due to the affordable housing component and the scale of the project.

According to the design report, the proposal has been shaped by the area's evolving planning framework, which is encouraging greater housing density around transport infrastructure.

"The site sits along a growth area anticipated to undergo transformation in line with broader trends across New South Wales, driven by the implementation of the Low and Mid-Rise and Transport-Oriented Development State Housing Policies," the report states.

"Being within 800 metres walking distance to Killara Train Station, the project seeks to provide high-quality apartments designed for various family sizes, located in a vibrant landscaped setting."

The Upper North Shore suburb has become one of the most closely watched testing grounds for the NSW Government's housing reforms. A number of developers have moved quickly to consolidate sites around railway stations across suburbs including Killara, Lindfield, Gordon and Roseville, where the new planning settings are creating opportunities for apartment developments that would previously have been difficult to achieve.

The likes of Aqualand, Hyecorp, Holdmark and Vermont Property Group have projects in the region.

Bridgewell has several developments in the pipeline. Last September they submitted plans for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/bridgewell-capital-seeks-55-apartment-project-in-killara">55 new apartments</a> at&nbsp;23-25 Lorne Avenue in Killara, just the other side of Regimental Park from their new project. In May they filed for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-bridgewell-plots-120-apartments-and-childcare-centre-in-maroubra-town-centre">120 apartments in Maroubra</a>.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

First look: Bridgewell, SLD Development double down on Killara Golf Club

Sydney developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/central-element">Central Element</a>&nbsp;is doubling down in Drummoyne, lodging plans for a boutique apartment development on St Georges Crescent, only one-kilometre down the road from its first Drummoyne development, Bianca.

The new project at 15A-21 St Georges Crescent,&nbsp;a&nbsp;1,701sqm north-facing site overlooking Iron Cove, will have 45 apartmnts across 10 levels. Eight of the units will be dedicated to affordable housing.

The site sits within walking distance of Drummoyne Village, Birkenhead Point, ferry services and the Bay Run, and offers harbour views towards the Sydney Harbour Bridge and CBD skyline.

Designed by MHN Design Union, the development will deliver a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments, alongside resident amenity including a gym, landscaped communal open space and three levels of basement parking.

The project has been lodged under the NSW Government's Low and Mid-Rise Housing reforms, with Drummoyne Village identified as a town centre capable of accommodating additional housing supply.

Central Element acquired the site earlier this year as part of its continued expansion across Sydney's eastern suburbs, lower north shore and inner west.

The developer's current pipeline includes luxury apartment projects Pearl Bondi and a separate development on Lamrock Avenue in Bondi, a residential project in Barry Street, Neutral Bay, and a mixed-use seniors living community in Greenwich.

Central Element Managing Director Nathan Chivas said the project would address a shortage of new owner-occupier housing opportunities in Drummoyne.

"While we're seeing a significant shift across Canada Bay as major infrastructure investment, population growth and planning reform drive a new chapter for the region, in suburbs like Drummoyne there remains a genuine shortage of new boutique luxury housing opportunities for owner occupiers," Chivas said.

"Sites of this nature are increasingly difficult to secure, particularly those that combine a north-facing aspect with direct water outlook. Our St Georges Crescent project responds directly to the market demand, offering a level of exclusivity, outlook and lifestyle in the highly sought after suburb."

The development application has been lodged with the City of Canada Bay Council, with the project expected to launch to market in early 2027.

&nbsp;

Central Element seeks second Drummoyne apartment development

The NSW Government has unveiled plans that could deliver around 1,300 new homes across Nowra and Kiama, continuing its push to unlock housing in well-located regional centres along the South Coast.

The proposals, now on public exhibition, would pave the way for around 830 homes in Nowra and a further 450 homes in Kiama, while also introducing affordable housing requirements and increased building heights in key locations.

The larger of the two proposals is centred on Nowra, where the NSW Government is seeking to rezone land within the Mandalay and Riverfront precincts.

The Mandalay sub-precinct, located close to Shoalhaven Memorial Hospital, Nowra Library and the city's aquatic centre, could accommodate around 530 new homes. Around 30 per cent of housing delivered on Homes NSW-owned land would be dedicated to social and affordable housing, equating to roughly 100 homes. Building heights would increase from the current two-storey limit to between three and six storeys.

A separate rezoning proposal for the Nowra Riverfront Precinct would unlock a further 377 homes while creating stronger connections between the Shoalhaven River and the CBD. The plans include building heights ranging from five to 12 storeys, floor space ratios of up to 2:1 and a requirement for two per cent affordable housing.

Together, the two proposals would deliver more than 900 homes across the broader Nowra area, reinforcing the city's role as one of regional NSW's key growth centres.

The housing push builds on previous infrastructure commitments in the Shoalhaven, including government funding aimed at supporting thousands of future homes in West Nowra through upgrades to water and wastewater infrastructure.

Further north, the NSW Government is also progressing plans for the former Kiama Depot site, a two-hectare parcel near Kiama's town centre.

The rezoning proposal would transform the former industrial site into a residential community capable of delivering up to 450 homes. Buildings would range between six and eight storeys, with at least 10 per cent of homes allocated as affordable housing. The proposal also includes approximately 600 parking spaces and improved walking and cycling connections.

Planning Minister Paul Scully said the proposals are designed to increase housing supply in locations close to jobs, transport and services.

"For too long, families have struggled to find somewhere to live, and activating underutilised sites allows us to deliver the new homes these families need," Scully said.

"The Minns Labor Government is getting on with the job of unlocking well-located sites close to transport, jobs, and town centres and building the homes our communities need.

"These rezonings are about removing barriers to housing delivery and making sure land is put to better use so more people can find a place to call home within the communities they choose."

The latest rezonings form part of the Minns Government's broader strategy to accelerate housing delivery across NSW, particularly in established centres where existing infrastructure can support additional population growth.

Community consultation on the proposals is now underway, with feedback set to inform the final planning controls before the rezonings are determined.

Around 1,300 new homes earmarked for Nowra and Kiama as NSW Government pushes housing supply

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>

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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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A 12 square-metre car space at Kirribilli sold at auction today for $120,000. The company title S7/29 Carabella Street offering was not restricted to building residents, selling to a neighbour. There are 23 apartments in the six-storey near harbour front 1960s block.
<img class="image" src="https://media.mcgrath.com.au/webimages/properties/0/2/6/4/3/7/2/6E94979D-EED4-870F-6A014A2B980EC3B0_m.jpg" width="376" height="299">
The highest weekend result was at Mosman for $6 million, which had been offered with $4.5 million plus guidance.
At Maroubra auctioneer Damien Cooley secured $3.57 million. The 650-square-metre oceanfront property at 19 Mermaid Avenue traded for $1.1 million in 1998.
The Surry Hills warehouse studio-home of Kay Lanceley and her artist husband, the late Colin Lanceley sold pre-auction through BresicWhitney for an unconfirmed $5 million.
The Lanceley's has bought the Esther Street warehouse in 1992 for $450,000 from their friend, art dealer, Ray Hughes.
The Surry Hills, Sydney warehouse abode had been listed with $4.2 million plus hopes.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/photogallery_new.ds?id=119798979&amp;theme=rea.buy" rel="photos" style="line-height: 1.3em;" data-id="119798979"><img src="https://i2.au.reastatic.net/800x600/5254f577100eab51c113d3ff6d35df3cd4495a03c9908eb47ea046f6b41ed149/image19.jpg" alt="2 Esther Lane, Surry Hills" title="2 Esther Lane, Surry Hills" data-index="18"></a>
 
There was an 83.3% initial weekend clearance rate, with an emerging softening apparent in the latest APM data, while Melbourne auctions shows strengthening results.
Some 673 Sydney homes were listed to go under the hammer, well up on last Saturday’s 395 Queen's Birthday weekend tally, and also higher than the 615 auctioned over the same weekend last year.
The weekend tally which secured $465 million in sales saw a $1.26 million Sydney median house price and a $775,000 Sydney median unit price.
<div>Sydney’s south hosted the most number of auctions of the suburban regions with 96 scheduled.</div>
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<div>The next highest was the city and east with 86 followed by the upper north shore 81, the lower north 75, the south west and the inner west each with 68, the west 51, Canterbury Bankstown 50, the northern beaches 45, the north west 32, the central coast 19 and the Blue Mountains with two auctions scheduled this weekend.</div>
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<div>The most popular suburb for auctions in Sydney this weekend is again Mosman with nine followed by Wahroonga and Baulkham Hills each with eight.</div>
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<div>There were just the six Mosman results notified.</div>
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<div>Seven auctions were scheduled on Saturday in Hornsby, Hurstville, Bexley, Lane Cove, Randwick and Bankstown.</div>
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<div>Huge crowds attended weekend auctions after a week of histrionic property commentary. At 25 Grove St, Casula a crowd of 150 watched four bidders - from the 18 registered - run the price up to $807,500 through Trevor Byrne at One Agency Carnes Hill. Auctioneer Rob Trovato had a crowd of around 120 watch as 277a North Rocks Rd North Rocks sold for $980,000 as five bidders sought to secure the battle axe home.</div>
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<div>Last weekend’s Queens Birthday long-weekend holiday break showed signs of easing in Sydney’s red-hot auction housing market, recording a weaker, but still strong clearance rate at 85.1% - which was revised down to 82.9% on late notified results. Last Saturday’s clearance rate was significantly higher than the 73.7% rate reported over the same weekend last year. 
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<div>The May monthly clearance rate was 83.9 percent result over the full month.</div>
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<div>"This was the fourth consecutive month that Sydney has broken the clearance rate record in a remarkable unprecedented performance," APM senior economist Dr Andrew Wilson said.</div>
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<div>Sydney also notched up its second highest ever monthly total number of auction sales over May at 3375 – just behind the November 2014 all-time record of 3717.</div>
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<div>The value of homes sold at auction over May soared to $4.14 billion – again just below last November’s all-time record of $4.24 billion.</div>
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Sydney's auction success slips to 83.3% with sales from $120,000 Kirribilli car space to $6 million Mosman home

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The Sydney home of late entertainer Stuart Wagstaff has been listed for July 4 auction.
Wagstaff died in March this year aged 90. 
<img src="https://i3.au.reastatic.net/800x600/653cae99727960c0e1af797f545237ac51084b379d85ee1cf0408e4bfb678da7/main.jpg" alt="33/37-45 Barry Street, Neutral Bay" title="33/37-45 Barry Street, Neutral Bay" data-index="0">
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The eighth floor apartment at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-nsw-neutral+bay-119984653" target="_blank">33/37-45 Barry St, Neutral Bay</a> has two bedrooms, along with a large entertaining balcony with views of the city.
Raine &amp; Horne Neutral Bay selling agent David Buttel said $950,000-plus was expected for the 106 square metre Kentwood block offering with car space.
It was his home for eight years, paying $660,000 in 2007 in the 1978 Mirvac-built complex.
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Stuart Wagstaff's Neutral Bay apartment for July auction

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A real estate salesman allegedly convinced Brisbane entrepreneur Carmelo Caltabianoa that the Soul, Surfers Paradise luxury penthouse apartment was worth $16.85 million because a similar nearby apartment sold for $20 million.
The buyer believed him but didn't check the salesman's claims, the Brisbane Supreme Court heard this week.
But the $20 million apartment had not sold at that price in the Jade complex.
The discussion is central to the long-awaited legal dispute between entrepreneur Carmelo Caltabiano and development company Juniper Property Holdings over the sale of a Gold Coast penthouse.
Juniper is suing Carmelo Caltabiano for allegedly breaching the sales contract for the four-level apartment.
He said he trusted the company because he had previously purchased property on the Sunshine Coast from Juniper.
Caltabiano was at the Gold Coast having a drink in April 2006 when he saw a display for Soul apartments.
He spoke to the salesman and noticed the penthouse was priced at $16.85 million.
He bought after the salesman phoned him later saying a penthouse apartment in <a href="/news/qld/jade-penthouse-on-the-gold-coast-sold-by-mortgagee-for-a-third-of-dashed-boomtime-hopes">another building had sold for $20 million</a> and another apartment, which was about half the size of his intended purchase, sold for about $7.8 million.
The penthouse atop the Soul Surfers Paradise tower on the Gold Coast sold for $7 million<a href="/news/soul-surfers-paradise-penthouse-auction-results-in-7-million-sale-to-tony-fung"> at McGrath auction in March this year to businessman Tony Fung</a>. 
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Soul penthouse court battle against buyer by Juniper

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On Thursday the McKell Institute released a report titled <a href="http://mckellinstitute.org.au/wp-content/uploads/pdf/McKell_Negative-Gearing_A4_WEB.pdf">Changing Gears</a>. It's a document which looks at five different policy options in relation to negative gearing and perhaps most disappointingly it does not give strategic planning policy much of a look in.

First and foremost, the McKell Institute are a NSW-centric policy institute and much of the report views the issues with the existing negative gearing system through Sydney-coloured glasses - a quick word find search of the document yields 53 references to Sydney and 3 to Melbourne.

In saying that however, I welcome its favoured policy response of grandfathering existing negative gearing arrangements and allow new negative gearing only for new housing stock.

As I mentioned in the opening paragraph, very little attention is paid to strategic planning and much of the preferred policy response focuses on using negative gearing to drive more broadacre supply. Is it smart to accelerate metropolitan fringe growth thus further lengthening the time between when residents move in and infrastructure - be it community-related, transport-related or health/education-related - is put in place?

Building new houses on the fringe without adequate infrastructure and locking new residents into auto-centricity from day one is the peak definition of sprawl.

Melbourne's urban growth boundary underwent a review of 'logical inclusions' in 2012 and subsequently another 6000 hectares was added to the supply pipeline. In 2010, the then Planning Minister Justin Madden added a mammoth 40,000 hectares. Just those two changes alone is enough land for upwards of 700,000 houses (at 15 houses per hectare).

Melbourne does not have an issue with broadacre supply.

Rewinding back to the Guy Planning era and the reformed planning zones, regardless of how well it has been implemented by individual councils, it was an attempt to drive more supply into brownfields development across the existing metropolitan area. And this is what the McKell Changing Gears report doesn't appear to address: different states have different strategies.

States and cities around the country vary when it comes to housing and planning policy, some have urban growth boundaries, some don't. Some encourage large pockets of high-density development, some have planning schemes which encourage medium density development across a broader metropolitan area. If a great big axe is to be wielded by Canberra (the McKell Institute is aligned with the ALP) then Canberra must ensure this negative gearing policy switch aligns with the wishes and planning policies of the states.

Given that the ability to deduct interest expenses from a person's income only applies on property which is not the individual's principal place of residence then we're talking about increasing the supply of rentals on the fringe within the context of the Changing Gears report.

But this is where this policy should be tweaked: it should apply to new 3+ bedroom apartments only, especially in areas throughout the metropolitan area where new planning zones allow it.

In the apartment boom of early last decade, 1 bedroom apartments were more common than 2 or 3 bedroom apartments - this decade it's safe to say most new developments split 1 and 2 bedroom configurations evenly with a small smattering of larger apartments. If we're going to attempt to intervene on an apparent market failure, rather than increase the supply of rentals on the fringe, it should be targeted at the dwelling type we have a lack of - and that's family-sized apartments.

Lead image courtesy mckellinstitute.org.au.
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Alastair Taylor

Targeting the right kind of new rental housing with negative gearing policy changes

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A first-home buyer - on their own - technically needs to earn about $152,000 a year to afford the median $752,000 Sydney dwelling.
It would take $115,000 in Melbourne and $111,000 in Canberra.
A single first-home buyer would need to earn $103,000 in Perth, $93,000 in Brisbane and $81,000 in Adelaide.
Affordability was better for couples buying a house together, The Australian Financial Review, using methodology from the University of NSW, added.
The salary required to make mortgage payment was based on the median dwelling price of each capital city in May from CoreLogic RP Data.
It assumed first-home buyers would put down 10 per cent as a deposit, and yardstick 30 per cent of their before-tax salary would go towards mortgage payment over 30 years, at a current standard variable rate of 5.38 per cent.
The common definition of "mortgage stress" among housing experts is spending more than 30 per cent of a salary on home loan repayments.
Ofcourse most first time buyers have historically directed more than 30% towards their mortgage as they stretch a little to get onto the ladder, and also most were never typically expected to actually start with a purchase at the Sydney median price.
Retailer Gerry Harvey has been recalling the time when a newly­wed couple achieved local fame when they bought a home straight after marrying!
Sydney prices are actually more affordable than in the booms of 1989 or 2004.
Indeed in 2004, the figure was 41 per cent, according to analysts BIS Shrapnel. 
Even before the more recent global financial crisis, when mortgage interest rates headed towards 10 per cent, the requirement was 39 per cent.
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A $152,000 salary - what an upstart Sydney median first home buyer needs 

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The property industry veteran Lyn Shaddock and his wife Jan recently snappily sold their Werai retreat, The Folly, after just four weeks on the market. 
Shaddock, chairman of Growthpoint Properties and Calibre Capital, listed the 4.7 hectare property with $2.45 million hopes with Margaret McCauley Real Estate along with <a href="https://www.cjpbowral.com.au/properties-for-sale/rural/rural-detail/TheFolly" target="_blank">Angus Yuill of Campbell Jones Property</a>.
The four bedroom, three bathroom house was built after the land was bought for $500,000 in 2001. 
The Greenhills Road property with irrigated cold climate gardens fetched $2,285,000. There is a barn built of Northern River hardwoods with mezzanine loft.
 
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The Folly, Werai sold in NSW Southern Highlands

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No bids yet for the latest online auction offering on the bidRhino.com website.
It is a six acre Upper Beaconsfield holding with a two bedroom cedar cottage.
Bidding is scheduled to run until July 2. <a href="https://www.bidrhino.com.au/vic/houses-for-sale/" target="_blank">More than $590,000 is tipped</a>.
There have been 350 plus inspections onsite since the offering was posted.
The auction began June 6.
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<div class="img-main-watermark "><img class="p-watermark-detail-big" src="https://www.bidrhino.com.au//store/uploads/1245/1569/TopPaddock.jpg" alt="Photo"></div>
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In the heart of Upper Beaconsfield, it is marketed as an ideal bed and breakfast business.
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<div class="item "><a href="/news/bidrhino-com-launches-online-auction-site-with-off-the-plan-offering">The bidRhino.com website</a> launched in April.</div>
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Upper Beaconsfield online auction offering on bidRhino.com 

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The 1950s Canberra home of the late former prime minister Malcolm Fraser and his wife Tamie​ has been sold.
It had been listed with $1,775,000 hopes.
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The four-bedroom property at <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/property/sold/house/act/deakin/?adid=2011483296" target="_blank">8 Daly Street</a>, known as JM Fraser House, was designed by Melbourne architect Guilford Bell in 1959.
The home was built three years after the couple wed with Malcolm Fraser then a backbencher.
The property, which was marketed as a piece of Australian history, is 300 metres from The Lodge.
It was listed through Berkely​ Residential and passed in on a vendor's bid of $1.7 million at recent auction.
The grand residence has origins in Georgian architecture combined with American plantation homesteads.
It has large rectangular windows and glass doors that surround the living areas and allow light to dominate each room.
It has soaring ceilings, and period features have been retained during several updates of the home by vendors Tony and Sue Marinos.
The vendors, the third owners purchased it 22 years ago for $425,000.
The property was first listed last August when $2 million was tipped for the home is on a block of 1340 square metres in Old Deakin.
It had also been listed in 2005 a $1.98 million.
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Guilford Bell-designed JM Fraser House, Deakin sold

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The WA contestants, Karina and Brian, stand to pocket their mortgage of $360,000 if they win the latest Channel 7 series of House Rules.
They are the final couple to have their home renovated and mortgage disclosed.
The Geraldton couple Karina and Brian Day are a 40-somethings couple who have faced years of financial hardship.
They are the oldest couple in the Seven reality home-renovation competition.
The couple bought their house in the Geraldton suburb of Moresby four years ago - and didn't believe they'd get on to the show because of their remote location.
The couple have three children, teens Daniel and Bailey from Brian's former marriage, and six-year-old Lara.
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They bought the property in Geraldton, north of Perth, five years ago because of its potential. Situated on five acres, it enjoys ocean glimpses, mountain views and roaming wildlife. The 1970s Spanish-style villa is in desperate need of renovation. 
Karina, who works as an operations manager at her local museum, is a qualified drafter with a keen interest in interior design.
Brian works in the mining industry as a plant operator but he's also a qualified timber framer who once owned his own shed building company.
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House Rules WA $360k mortgage

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Sydney's most expensive home sale for the week ending June 7 was a Potts Point three bedroom apartment with a 4 car garage, according to the latest CoreLogic RP Data Property Market Indicator Summary.
Selling for $4.75 million, the property, located in the Rockwall Apartments in Sydney's Potts Point, features two private 'decked in' balconies overlooking the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge and harbour from the 17th floor.
Another three-bedder in the same block, one floor down on the 16th floor of the Mirvac building, sold during the same time for $3.3 million.
  
<img src="/images/2015/06/09/700_potts2.jpg" alt=""> 
  
Most expensive sales for week ending June 7
1702/7 Rockwall Crescent, Potts Point, NSW, 2011, three-bedroom unit, sold on June 3 by Richardson &amp; Wrench Elizabeth Bay / Potts Point for $4.75 million.
60 Ku-Ring-Gai Avenue, Turramurra, NSW, 2074, five-bedroom house, sold on June 4 by L J Hooker Wahroonga for $4.35 million.
1 Bunyula Road, Bellevue Hill, NSW, 2023, four-bedroom house, sold at auction on June 2 by Belle Property Double Bay for $3.775 million.
4B Tutus Street, Balgowlah Heights, NSW, 2093, four-bedroom house, sold on June 5 by L J Hooker Seaforth for $3.6 million.
27 Church Street, Blakehurst, NSW, 2221, six-bedroom house, sold at auction on June 6 by Ray White Hurstville for $3.5 million.
262 Moore Park Road, Paddington, NSW, 2021, five-bedroom house, sold at auction on June 5 by McGrath Estate Agents for $3.35 million.
1604/7 Rockwall Crescent, Potts Point, NSW, 2011, three-bedroom unit, sold on June 5 by Richardson &amp; Wrench Elizabeth Bay / Potts Point for $3.32 million.
9 Bringa Avenue, Camberwell, VIC, 3124, four-bedroom house, sold at auction on June 6 by Jellis Craig Real Estate Hawthorn for $3.316 million.
45 Batemans Road, Gladesville, NSW, 2111, four-bedroom house, sold at auction on June 4 by BresicWhitney Hunters Hill for $2.9 million.
30 Sinclair Street, Wollstonecraft, NSW, 2065, six-bedroom house, sold on June 2 by McGrath Estate Agents for $2.75 million. 
 
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