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>.

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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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The national preliminary auction clearance rate sits at 79.2% across the combined capital cities last week, up from 78.5% over the previous week. 
There were 1,155 auctions held last week, compared to 2,792 over the previous week given the Queen's Birthday long weekend.
 At the same time last year, there were 1,191 auctions held across the combined capital cities and the clearance rate was recorded at 60.6%. 
For Sydney, a preliminary auction clearance rate of 90.1% was recorded last week, on reduced volumes, compared to 85.0% the previous week. There were 573 Sydney properties that went to auction last week, compared to 1,149 the previous week.
CoreLogic RP Data reported the first five months of 2015 have proved to be the strongest on record for Sydney with an estimated 85% of all homes taken to auction recording a successful result.
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Last week, Sydney’s strongest performing sub-regions were the City and Inner South (97.9%), North Sydney and Hornsby (96.3%), Ryde (96.3%) and Sutherland (96.1%) regions. 
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Melbourne’s preliminary clearance rate was recorded at 78.4$ last week across 302 auctions, while in comparison, over the previous week the final auction clearance rate was 80.2% across 1,248 Melbourne auctions.
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The preliminary auction clearance rate for Melbourne was recorded at 78.4 per cent across 255 results, which is a decrease from the final auction clearance rate last week (80.2%). 
At the same time last year, 335 Melbourne homes were taken to auction and the clearance rate was 62.4%. 
The Melbourne sub-region with the highest number of auctions this week was the South East, where 49 auctions were held. In terms of clearance rate, the strongest performing region was the Outer East region, with a preliminary clearance rate of 95.5% across 22 results. 
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It is expected that 2,346 auctions will be held across Australia this week with 1,915 across the capital city markets.
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Sydney heads into the 90s with strengthening auction clearance rate

<html><body>Australian Property Monitors (APM) has released a list of auction results in Sydney for Saturday, 6 June. <a href="https://www.homepriceguide.com.au/saturday_auction_results/Sydney.pdf" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Click here</a> for the auction results, and click on each street address to see the property's marketing.</body></html>

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APM's Sydney auction results for Saturday June 6

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NSW publican Arthur Laundy has added The Woolloomooloo Bay Hotel to his property portfolio.
It was bought from the Medich family’s Halcyon Hotels for about $20 million.
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The deal comes shortly after the Medich family sold the Buena Vista Hotel in Mosman, on Sydney’s lower north shore, for about $16 million after buying it last year for $13 million
The deal was brokered by Andrew Jolliffe and Joel Fisher of Ray White Hotels Australia.
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Laundy buys Woolloomooloo Bay Hotel from Medich

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The Australian Tax Office is investigating 195 possibly illegal real estate sales to foreigners.
They have identified one foreign investor who appears to be linked to over 10 properties ranging from a $300,000 unit to a house worth $1.4 million.
A second divestment order - that will follow Point Piper's Villa del Mare - is expected over a Perth property after an investor from the United Kingdom admitted a $700,000 purchase.
Under the current amnesty, investors who declare unlawfully purchased properties before November 30 would avoid prosecution.
Up to 24 foreign investors have come forward under an amnesty to disclose they may have breached home-ownership rules, Treasurer Joe Hockey has advised. 
Tax commissioner Chris Jordan told a recent senate committee hearing that the 195 investigations had arisen after people came forward voluntarily and from other people dobbing them in.
"There's 195 in total that we are looking at," Mr Jordan said, in response to questioning from Labor senator Sam Dastyari.
"Some have come forward, some are complainants, because they think the people have breached; sometimes they have, sometimes they haven't," Mr Jordan said.
"We are aware of some instances where they are not just the trophy property but there might be a number of properties that cover the spectrum; in total they might add up to a significant amount."
When asked if one the houses being investigated was Altona, a $52 million mansion in Sydney, the ATO said it could not comment on investigations.
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Fairfax Media has reported a preliminary audit of foreign investment in Australian real estate had also identified a network of "high risk" investment advisers.
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The Australian Tax Office audit was initiated by Treasurer Joe Hockey and parliamentary secretary to the Treasurer Kelly O'Dwyer.
It came after resources available at the Foreign Investment Review Board, in the Department of Treasury, were found to be inadequate.
The audit is being assisted by a boost in funding in last month's federal budget, building an investigation force of 60.
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ATO Second commissioner Neil Olesen said investigations would be mostly on top-end properties
"I'd be surprised if a fair slab of them were not towards the top end of the market. One of the compliance activities we have in mind would be to look at significant sales over the last five to 10 years."
Meanwhile Shadow treasurer Chris Bowen said "any allegations of breaches of foreign investment rules should be thoroughly investigated" but dismissed Joe Hockey's hardline stance on trophy home purchases as addressing housing affordability.
"Joe Hockey has held up forced sales of Point Piper mansions as somehow being a contribution to first home owners and housing affordability," Chris Bowen said.
"Young Australian first home buyers want action from this government. Joe Hockey promised a housing affordability policy before the last election but has actually delivered naught."
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ATO foreign investment crack squad investigating 195 property sales 

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China’s largest developer Greenland Group has bought the Crest Hotel in Sydney’s Kings Cross.
The property, with development potential, was bought from Sam Arnaout’s hospitality and development group Iris Capital.
Colliers International agent Miron Solomons handled the off-market transaction of the property on the Victoria Street and Darlinghurst Road corner.
Iris bought The Crest for about $65 million from Australand in 2012. 
Iris also owns the Bourbon bar and restaurant in Kings Cross, so has forgone the opportunity to bookend the Kings Cross strip with prestige projects.
The Victoria Street-Darlinghurst Road hotel has an end value of about $300 million with a $55 million development value.
The state-owned Greenland is set to float on the Shanghai Stock Exchange.
The Crest Hotel has development ­approval for 139 apartments.
<img src="https://durbachblockjaggers.com/file/02-crest-hotel_550a6539cd7ae-projectImage.jpg">
Iris had plans to develop the 19-storey tower with an hourglass design by architects Durbach Block Jager.
Following a design competition held by the City of Sydney council, the concept for stage-one plans were approved.
Comparisons have been drawn between New York's Times Square and the new site for <a href="https://durbachblockjaggers.com" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;">DBJ's The Crest</a>.
All images from Durbach Block Jaggers.
 
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Greenland buys The Crest in Kings Cross

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The Red Hill residence of Claire Vickery sits on a 3.78 hectare vineyard holding with views towards Port Phillip.  
The Mornington Peninsula property is under vine with Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris grapes. There are vines on either side of the five bedroom, six bathroom house.
The 160 Harrisons Road property vineyard has lease arrangements until April 2017 to Martha Cove Vineyards. It last traded at $2.35 million in 2003. 
Claire Vickery is the philanthropist founder of The Butterfly Foundation, the daughter of renowned winemaker Dr John Middleton of Mount Mary Vineyard.
The residence has a front wall of windows enhanced by the rustic fusion of aged timber pylons from Manly Pier.
It has been listed <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/160-harrisons-road-red-hill/Property-Details-buy-residential-8972278" target="_blank">through Holly Longmuir at RT Edgar Flinders</a>. 
A nearby one hectare holding with a housing compound built in 2000 sold last month at $1.55 million having traded in 2012 for $1,475,000.
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Butterfly Foundation's Claire Vickery lists Red Hill vineyard home

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A Glebe terrace, featured in the Australian film Looking for Alibrandi, has been sold after its Ray White auction at $1,320,500.
The fame of <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/1-cardigan-street-glebe/Property-Details-buy-residential-8774124" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;">1 Cardigan Street</a> dates back to the 2000 film which movie buffs will recognise as the home of Josephine Alibrandi.
Updated since the film, the two-bedroom 1900 home features a modern kitchen, bathroom and new decor.
Based on the novel by Melina Marchetta about a teenage girl, Looking for Alibrandi starred Australian actors including Pia Miranda, Anthony LaPaglia and Greta Scacchi.
It last sold after 20 years of ownership in 2013 at $900,000, when the film was writ large in the marketing.
The inner west gave Italo-Australian authenticity to Looking for Alibrandi, though Cardigan Street was chosen for its city views. 
 
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Looking for Alibrandi, Glebe terrace sells

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Liverpool was again the location of Sydney's cheapest weekend sale.
It was a two bedroom apartment (below) that fetched $317,500 through Ray White agent Adrian Bonino.
<img src="https://i2.au.reastatic.net/456x342/e37b6f9bfe75cb092eb9b35deb4ff37bbb6b82efdcd640a1892a91c3cb84acd8/main.jpg" alt="29/42-44 Copeland Street, Liverpool" title="29/42-44 Copeland Street, Liverpool" data-index="0">
It last sold in 1983 at $35,000. 
The 29/42-44 Copeland Street complex's last sale was in February when another two bedroom apartment fetched $300,000. It was put up for rent a $300 a week, reflecting a 5.2% yield before costs.
There was an 85.1% success rate across the Sydney market that barely paused for the Queen’s Birthday holiday.
Nearly 400 homes were listed which is similar to the last year's 393 and predictably well ahead of the 853 auctioned last weekend, Dr Andrew Wilson, the APM senior economist.
Sydney’s upper north shore hosted the most number of auctions with 55 listed followed by the west with 52, the south west 50, the south 45, the inner west 44, the lower north 32, the northern beaches 32, the s 55, the city and east 31, Canterbury Bankstown 22 and the north west with 18 auctions scheduled this weekend.
Mosman and Hornsby were the most popular suburbs for auctions in Sydney with eight each followed by Blacktown and Guilford with seven each.
Sydney’s weekend auction market bounced back on the last May Saturday to end its record breaking season clearly on a high.
Sydney ‘s has recorded a remarkable average Saturday clearance rate of 84.4 percent over autumn which is well ahead of the 79.3 percent recorded over autumn last year. Clearance rates over the past three months have been the highest ever recorded by Sydney reflecting an unprecedented wave of auction activity.
Although clearance rates are at record levels, the number of auctions conduced this year in Sydney has declined. 10,334 Saturday auctions have been listed since the beginning of February compared to 10,622 over the same period last year.
In late May 10/22 Nagle Street, Liverpool $336,000 - a two bedroom unit (below) was the cheapest on that weekend.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/photogallery_new.ds?id=119670199&amp;theme=rea.buy" rel="photos" data-id="119670199"><img src="https://i1.au.reastatic.net/456x342/defb7ae0bac81e6df0af5daa0ebd987515ddfdc117147de4f6c13f05a2106c54/main.jpg" alt="10/22 Nagle St, Liverpool" title="10/22 Nagle St, Liverpool" data-index="0"></a>
Property Observer gleans the LJ Hooker Liverpool agent Pat Bugge sold it to an investor. It was up for rent last August at $290 a week, reflecting a 4.5% yield.
The block's previous highest two bedroom sale was $321,000 in early 2015, then put up for rent at $300 a week.
 
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Less auctions, as Liverpool again led the cheapest Sydney weekend purchasing opportunity

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The unusual Hollander House, the Antonio Gaudi-style home at Newport on Sydney’s northern beaches, has been sold.
The hand-formed ferro-cement house is without question one of the finest examples of true organic architecture in Australia. 
<div class="image-frame image-650w366h"><img src="https://resources3.news.com.au/images/2015/01/22/1227193/470311-8f0e4fdc-9f74-11e4-96f4-b3bf448e0f0c.jpg" alt="Hollander House takes inspiration from the adobe buildings of Africa and the southwest Un" width="650" height="366"></div>
Hollander House takes inspiration from the adobe buildings of Africa and the southwest United States. 
"Hollander House is free form and highly contemporary and will appeal to those who think different," the marketing from<a href="https://www.modernhouse.co/listings/hollander-house/" target="_blank"> </a><a href="https://www.modernhouse.co/listings/hollander-house/" target="_blank">Modern House</a>, a specialist estate agency for architect-designed residences, suggests.
No formal price guidance had been issued, but an ambitious $1.5 million had been mooted in both the local papers.
The current owner is Californian-born interior designer Nancy Renzi of Renzi Design. Newport is situated 31 kilometres north of Sydney’s CBD.
The property at 81 Grandview Drive was designed by David Hollander and built between 1969 to 1971 following the contours of the land like a giant rock formation.
"It evokes memories of Antonio Gaudi’s Barcelona architecture with the optimism of the future, think Zaha Hadid but with texture," the marketing suggested.
It first featured in Australian House and Garden, September, 1971, then voted one of the top five houses of the year, Australian House and Garden, 1973. Vogue Australia featured it in 1975.
Hollander developed a floor plan enveloping three levels beginning at the entrance hall and office, continuing through the living area to the kitchen/dining area, and ultimately ascending to the casual recreation room at the highest elevation.
His elliptical walls have curves which he thought were correct aesthetically, having found a heavily treed allotment just below the crest with a restrained excavation of the site for his new home. 
Recent additions to the design include an outdoor bath in the private deck from the main bedroom and a large entertaining deck off the kitchen with an outdoor fireplace as a centrepiece. There is 180 square metre internal space for the house engineered by E Perry and built by B A Moore on the 904 square metre block.
Hollander designed it for his own use and lived there for 14 years. Stephen and Meredith D'alton sold the house in 1990 for $230,000. It last traded at $860,000 in 2011.
<img src="https://www.modernhouse.co/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/FLOOR-PLAN_Portrait_HOLLANDER-HOUSE-728x1030.jpg" alt="FLOOR PLAN_Portrait_HOLLANDER HOUSE" width="728" height="1030" data-original="https://www.modernhouse.co/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/FLOOR-PLAN_Portrait_HOLLANDER-HOUSE-1273x1800.jpg">
David Hollander trained at the University of Sydney in the mid-1960s, later joining the Canberra office of Towel Rippon and Associates before accepting a position with the Sydney practice Devine Erby Mazlin (today DEM) in 1974. 
Some of Australia’s most celebrated circular-plan buildings include Roy Grounds’ Australian Academy of Science building at the Australian National University, Canberra (1956) and on a domestic scale, Peter Muller’s dome-roofed Kumale, in nearby Barrenjoey Road, Palm Beach (1955).
Newport, which sits between the Pacific Ocean to the east and Pittwater to the west, is a 20 minute drive to Palm Beach or Manly. 
 
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Organic 1970s Hollander House, the Gaudi-style home at Newport, sold

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This is the longest couch Property Observer has possibly ever seen.
It is in a recently sold Paddington terrace with heated Kota bluestone floors.
The living dining space is 3.1 metres wide by 12 metres long.
The couch runs from the stairs to the kitchen.
It sold through BresicWhitney agent Macleay Longhurst.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-paddington-119568263" target="_blank">The 360 South Dowling Street terrace</a> fetched $1.36 million despite its minimal interiors.
The backyard comes with a decent wooden couch too.
 
{mijopolls 113}
 
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