Abadeen has released the whole-floor penthouse crowning its recently completed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/park-residences-cremorne-2-sutherland-street-cremorne-nsw-2090">Park Residences</a> development in Cremorne, bringing the near-300 sqm residence to market for the first time.

Occupying the entire top floor of the boutique Lower North Shore development, the penthouse includes 221 sqm of internal living and a 74 sqm wraparound terrace, with a prized north-facing aspect taking in views across Middle Harbour.

The residence has been completed and fully furnished following a collaboration between Abadeen Executive Chairman Justin Brown and internationally recognised interior designer Jack Freeman, Founder and Managing Director of FREEMAN &amp; CO.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/abadeen">Abadeen</a> and Freeman approached the penthouse as a finished home, sourcing furniture, artwork, lighting and objects from Australia and overseas.

&nbsp;

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Pieces from Parisian design house Pierre Augustin Rose sit alongside contemporary artworks and bespoke lighting, with Freeman drawing on recent visits to PAD Paris and Salone del Mobile Milano for the final collection.

Brown said the aim was to create a penthouse that felt more like a large-scale private home than a traditional apartment.

"The experience begins the moment the lift doors open. You're welcomed into an elegant dining room before the home opens into an extraordinary living space framed by sun-drenched harbour views.

"Every time someone walks through the front door they pause. It's not just the view, it's the incredible sense of space, the warmth created by the northern sunlight that fills the interiors, and the way every room connects so effortlessly.

"It has all the proportions of a luxury home, while delivering the effortless lifestyle and personalised experience of living in a world-class six-star hotel, combined with the simplicity and convenience of apartment living."

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378713]

A secure lift provides exclusive access to the penthouse level, opening to a dedicated arrival foyer and dining area before the residence expands into its main living and entertaining spaces.

Floor-to-ceiling glazing runs across the northern side of the home, connecting the interiors with the terrace and Middle Harbour outlook.

The penthouse also features a fireplace and substantial chef's kitchen, while the wraparound terrace has been designed to accommodate both everyday outdoor living and larger-scale entertaining.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378720]

Freeman said the interiors had been deliberately kept restrained to complement the scale, natural light and outlook already established by the architecture.

"The penthouse is a serene study in quiet luxury," Freeman said.

"The interior pairs soft, sculptural forms with warm timber, pale stone and a restrained neutral palette. Curated artwork and metallic accents add depth, while abundant natural light creates a calm, effortlessly refined atmosphere. In my world, less is always more."

Freeman said the approach was centred around collecting individual pieces rather than simply decorating the apartment.

"Every material, every object and every piece of furniture has been curated with intention. I am a true believer in collecting versus decorating.

"The architecture already provided extraordinary natural light, remarkable volume and an uninterrupted connection to Middle Harbour. Our role was to complement those qualities with unique one-of-a-kind pieces of fine art and collectible design sourced from recent travels around the world."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378694]

Among the collection are solid bronze sculptures by Lorenzo Quinn, alongside a curated crystalware collection and pieces sourced from international design fairs.

Park Residences sits opposite Cammeray Golf Club, Cammeray Croquet Club and Grand Slam Tennis Cammeray, around 300 metres from Neutral Bay Village and its established collection of restaurants, cafés and retail.

Brown said the combination of a whole-floor floorplan, northern aspect and proximity to Neutral Bay was becoming increasingly difficult to find on the Lower North Shore.

"Completed whole-floor penthouses with a sun-drenched north-facing aspect and sweeping Middle Harbour views are exceptionally rare," Brown said.

"Add a quiet position opposite golf, croquet and tennis facilities, a level walk to Neutral Bay Village and only minutes to the CBD, and you have a lifestyle that's incredibly difficult to replicate.

"This is a home that offers the privacy and generosity of a luxury residence together with the convenience of one of Sydney's best-connected harbourside locations."

The penthouse will be exclusively marketed by SRM Residential.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=114246]

Joel Robinson

Abadeen unveils signature penthouse at Park Residences in Cremorne

New Brisbane developer Dalcott has unveiled Marrone, the first of three residential projects it is planning in and around Browning Street in South Brisbane.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/marrone-south-brisbane-39-browning-street-south-brisbane-qld-4101">Marrone</a> will comprise 97 predominantly two- and three-bedroom apartments, with larger residences aimed squarely at the owner-occupier market.

The project will sit in a quiet pocket of South Brisbane between South Bank and West End, close to the restaurants, cultural attractions and riverfront amenity that have driven the suburb's continued transformation.

Dalcott is targeting buyers looking for more space and amenity than has traditionally been offered in the inner-city apartment market, particularly downsizers and professionals wanting to remain close to the city.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149951 project_image_fid=377072]

Resident facilities will be concentrated around an extensive rooftop amenity offering, including a swimming pool, spa, infrared sauna, warm and cold magnesium plunge pools, private lounge, dining room and outdoor entertaining areas.

Dalcott Managing Director Lachlan Cottee said South Brisbane's combination of lifestyle, connectivity and established character had been central to the approach to Marrone.

“South Brisbane offers a combination of lifestyle, connectivity and character that’s difficult to replicate elsewhere in Brisbane,” Cottee said.

“Our focus has been on creating homes that feel connected to that environment while providing the level of design, functionality and quality that today's owner-occupiers expect.”

The residences will feature an expressive material palette. Italian Calacatta Viola marble, known for its deep burgundy veining, will be paired with aged brass tapware, Chestnut engineered timber flooring and Tuscan Oak joinery.

<img alt="Marrone" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b8d833da-3b30-496a-ae30-07bdff371b50" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%2010.52.35%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=P6DAgOfaQzIXljKKK5j3e5NhWtrHIu9G" />

Bathrooms will feature Nara Japanese ceramics and glass bricks, while clay, walnut and brass lighting will be used throughout the apartments.

Dalcott has appointed Realm Projects, led by Managing Director Shane Foley, to handle sales and marketing following previous sold-out collaborations between the groups.

Foley said the Brisbane apartment buyer had become increasingly focused on the quality of the home itself rather than simply securing an inner-city address.

“We expect to see strong demand from buyers who still want all the advantages of inner-city living but aren’t prepared to compromise on the quality of their home,” Foley said.

“Many will be downsizers looking to leave behind the maintenance of a traditional family home without giving up the space they enjoy, while others are likely to be professionals wanting a residence that reflects the way they live today.”

“Marrone responds directly to that demand, with generous floorplans, exceptional resident amenity and a location that places some of Brisbane’s best dining, entertainment and cultural attractions within walking distance.”

<img alt="Marrone" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="61f7b22f-899e-4c0f-940a-7d3ab1bfb93a" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%2010.52.44%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=PvN1JYxBgUpyCB7efKo52WGdSDs9nmim" />

Marrone will be the first project delivered as part of Dalcott's broader investment in the precinct.

It will be followed by La Terra, a boutique project comprising penthouse-style, single-level apartments on a northeast corner site with extensive resident amenity and city views.

Cottee said Marrone represented the first stage of the group's longer-term plans for the area.

Dalcott was established in 2025 by Lachlan Cottee and Ben Dalgliesh, combining development and construction capability under an integrated model and focusing on architecturally considered residential projects.

Marrone will initially be offered through a pre-release registration campaign ahead of its broader public launch.

Dalcott targets owner-occupiers with South Brisbane debut Marrone

Parnell Developments is the latest to seek significant uplift through the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority on a Strathfield site previously approved for a much smaller apartment development.

Parnell has sought approval for a 32-storey mixed use tower across&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/7-lyons-street-strathfield-nsw-2135">3-7 Lyons Street and 18 Parnell Street</a>, a&nbsp;1,857 sqm site around 400 metres from Strathfield Station. The building would yield 160 apartments, 15 per cent of which will be dedicated affordable as per the government mandate for buildings seeking additional uplift.

Approved previously was a nine-storey building back in 2022 with just over 30 apartments. That approval came prior to the project being&nbsp;progressively reconsidered as planning policy shifted toward greater density around transport hubs.

<img alt="Strathfield" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c5af5281-a643-4eb2-b8c4-0081b59c04c7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%209.16.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=37bd3mI7rHNpThOV_75VO8xsGFwWOi1u" />

Turner has designed the latest building that would replace&nbsp;existing detached homes across the four lots.

The apartment mix comprises 22 one-bedroom apartments, 107 two-bedroom and two-bedroom-plus configurations, and 31 apartments with three or more bedrooms. The scheme also includes 203 car spaces across six basement levels and 58 bicycle spaces.

The proposal has been designed around a three-storey podium addressing Lyons Street, with the tower rising above and stepping toward its upper levels.

Turner said the podium was deliberately scaled to respond to the existing street, while the taller element has been designed as part of the emerging skyline anticipated around Strathfield Town Centre and the wider Homebush transport-oriented development precinct.

The Lyons Street frontage would have a more active, pedestrian-focused character, incorporating the commercial tenancy, landscaping and a brick-framed podium with an awning.

<img alt="Strathfield" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="14b20874-b8c3-4ac7-bc03-92be9a69fb78" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%209.17.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=av.9TxtqIRTC6v3PkSuu1rL9rreWoe2h" />

Parnell Street, which faces the railway corridor, has been given a different architectural treatment, with double-height breeze blocks, landscaping and communal areas used to soften the interface with the rail infrastructure.

The tower itself uses curved and recessed facade elements, with wave-like indentations across the northern elevation breaking the building into three vertical forms.

A palette of grey concrete, brick and breeze blocks is complemented by clay and terracotta accents, while the upper tower adopts a lighter expression through articulated slab edges, vertical fins and recessed glazing.

Residents would have access to 467 sqm of communal open space spread across three levels. The ground floor would accommodate the more active resident areas, including barbecue and group gathering spaces and an internal communal room capable of being used for working from home.

A more passive viewing deck is proposed at level three, overlooking the ground-level landscaping and neighbouring tennis courts, while a rooftop "sunset deck" at level 30 would provide another social and relaxation space.

<img alt="Parnell" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c3dce401-a80f-4682-8471-4caa01180880" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%209.17.34%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=Xyo8JVqbOhSJXNy6Ih.1cHL.O6i0bGR." />

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Strathfield has been earmarked for substantial change through the Strathfield Town Centre planning work and the nearby Homebush TOD precinct.

Turner's report says the project has been designed to act as a transition between the existing low and mid-rise development surrounding the site and the taller built form expected to emerge across the town centre.

The proposal is being assessed as State Significant Development under the HDA pathway, alongside the concurrent request to amend the Burwood Local Environmental Plan.

First look: New apartment tower pitched for Strathfield Town Centre precinct

An $18 million penthouse has hit the market in Main Beach as construction tops out on La Mer, the $155 million apartment development rising just metres from the beach.

Spanning around 600 sqm across the top two levels of the 29-storey tower on Main Beach Parade, the four-bedroom penthouse is one of the latest eight-figure residences to test the upper end of the Gold Coast apartment market.

Its launch comes amid continued activity at the very top of the market, following the $30 million off-the-plan sale of a Burleigh Heads penthouse earlier this year, which surpassed the Gold Coast's previous $24 million apartment record set in 2023.

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/la-mer-main-beach-3580-main-beach-parade-main-beach-qld-4217">La Mer penthouse</a> has been designed as a private residence in the sky, with 360-degree views spanning the ocean, Broadwater, hinterland and Gold Coast skyline.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378731]

All four bedrooms have ensuites, while the ocean-facing master retreat occupies around half of the upper level and includes its own lounge, private balcony, two walk-in wardrobes and an oversized ensuite with a freestanding stone bath positioned to take in the views.

The residence also features a kitchen designed to accommodate a private chef, a 3.6-metre island bench, expansive butler's pantry, wine cellar and integrated bar.

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A rooftop pool and substantial outdoor entertaining area with its own kitchen sit above the residence, while a grand staircase connects the two internal levels. The penthouse also has its own express lift.

OTP Group Director James Elliott, who is marketing La Mer, said the penthouse was expected to appeal to high-net-worth buyers seeking either a permanent Main Beach residence or Gold Coast holiday home.

“The La Mer penthouse represents exceptional value, considering its quality design, size, privacy and location, not to mention the 360-degree views capturing the beach and Gold Coast Broadwater,” Elliott said.

“We’re anticipating interest from high-net-worth individuals and couples seeking a residence or holiday home in the sought-after village enclave of Main Beach, taking advantage of the unprecedented growth underway in the area and neighbouring The Spit.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378736]

La Mer is being developed by developer-builder ODUS and Nazero, in partnership with funder Metrics Credit Partners.

ODUS Director Byron Sakha said topping out the tower had provided the opportunity to release the project's most significant residence.

“We’ve worked with internationally-recognised studio Sici Design on the penthouse interiors, with a focus on ensuring it isn’t luxury for luxury’s sake. Every element has been thoughtfully designed to enhance quality of life for those who call it home,” Sakha said.

“The views are the hero of virtually every space, but we’ve given equal attention to the fittings and finishes, so every detail exudes elegance and refinement.”

Sici Design Founder and Director Maria Papadopoulos said the extensive views became an integral part of the interior design rather than simply something the residence was designed around.

“The views weren't something we designed around, they became part of the design itself, with the true luxury of La Mer in its feeling of peace, calm and wellbeing,” Papadopoulos said.

“Luxury isn't defined by how something looks, but how it makes you feel, and we believe a luxurious home should be beautiful to live in, not stressful to maintain.”

The interiors combine Austral Dream Dolomite natural stone and travertine with timber flooring and a restrained coastal palette.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378734]

Designed by Plus Studio, La Mer is one of the more boutique additions to the rapidly changing Main Beach apartment market.

The tower comprises just 24 full-floor, three-bedroom plus multipurpose room apartments below the two-level penthouse, giving the project a considerably lower density than many of the larger towers being developed across the Gold Coast.

Residents will have access to a pool and spa, gym, sauna, barbecue facilities, private sun lounges, yoga lawn and outdoor beach shower.

The penthouse has been released as part of the final collection of residences at La Mer, with remaining apartments priced from $4.3 million.

Construction is expected to complete later this year, with a fully furnished display apartment now open on level four.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=95606]

ODUS releases $18 million penthouse crowning La Mer Main Beach

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/far-east-consortium">Far East Consortium</a> is preparing to commence construction on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/640-bourke-street-melbourne-640-bourke-street-melbourne-vic-3000">640 Bourke Street</a> this October, marking the next milestone for the Melbourne CBD development and its higher-end Eliza Collection.

Spanning levels 44 to 68 of the 68-storey <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>-designed tower, the Eliza Collection has been conceived as a lower-density offering within the broader development, with only five apartments on each floor, dedicated lift access and a collection of resident spaces reserved exclusively for Eliza Collection residents.

The Eliza Collection forms part of Far East Consortium's broader move toward larger-format residences at 640 Bourke Street, where the number of apartments was reduced from earlier plans as apartment sizes increased.

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"What it's meant for 640 Bourke is we've actually reduced the number of apartments. We've increased the overall size of the apartments. We don't have any studios in here, and what that does for a project is it elevates it," Far East Consortium Director of Sales and Marketing Lauren Sheldon said.

Rothelowman Associate Jun Chang said the design process provided an opportunity to create more generous floorplans.

"We were given the opportunity to be more generous. The apartments became bigger and squarer than any other apartments which had been designed in the CBD before that."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=368869]

That thinking carries through to the Eliza Collection, where the residences have been designed around the space and functionality associated with a larger home, but positioned high above the centre of Melbourne.

Kitchens are equipped with Gaggenau appliances, a butler's pantry, temperature-controlled wine cabinet and sculptural pendant lighting, while engineered timber flooring, stone and porcelain finishes and custom cabinetry feature throughout the broader interiors.

Privacy and security are another point of distinction. Eliza Collection residents have dedicated lift access, while 640 Bourke Street will provide concierge services and secure resident parking. Short-stay accommodation, including Airbnb, will not be permitted within the development.

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Eliza Collection residents will also have exclusive access to selected amenity spaces across levels one and three of the restored Eliza Tinsley building. These include the Salon with grand piano, an art therapy room, private dining rooms and treatment rooms.

They sit within more than 3,000 sqm of amenity planned across 640 Bourke Street, alongside facilities including a pool, gym, whisky lounge and further social and wellness spaces.

The Eliza Tinsley building itself is central to the wider project's identity. Rather than treating the existing Eliza Tinsley façade as a separate element, Rothelowman used it as a starting point for the architecture of the new tower, with the historic building to accommodate the project's gallery and lobby.

"It's a significant asset and wants to be celebrated and experienced by all residents every single time they go in and out of the building," Rothelowman Principal Stuart Marsland said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=368872]

The tower will rise behind the retained heritage building at 640 Bourke Street, placing residents within walking distance of Southern Cross Station, Flagstaff Gardens, Queen Victoria Market and the Docklands waterfront.

With construction scheduled to begin in October, Far East Consortium has established an onsite display gallery at 640 Bourke Street, including fully built apartments that allow the project's layouts, materials and finishes to be inspected at full scale.

A fully built Eliza Collection apartment is also available to view at the display suite by appointment ahead of the planned October construction commencement.

Eligible purchasers who buy before construction commences can secure the full available off-the-plan stamp duty savings, subject to eligibility and applicable conditions.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=509]

Far East Consortium brings Eliza Collection to 640 Bourke Street ahead of October construction start

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

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

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

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

Every First Home Owner Grant for new property by state

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

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

Staff Writer

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

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

alisonwarters@gmail.com

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

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

Ellen Walker

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

For most Australians, buying an apartment is one of the biggest financial decisions they'll ever make

The location, floorplan and price are often the first considerations, but in recent years another question has become increasingly important: who is actually delivering the project?

A series of high-profile builder collapses, construction delays and defect concerns have fundamentally changed how many Victorians approach buying off the plan. The collapse of Porter Davis in 2023, which reportedly left around 1,700 homes unfinished, became one of the most visible examples of the risks that can emerge when a construction company fails. <a href="https://www.equifax.com.au/sites/default/files/lpassets/pdf/Final-Business-Market-Pulse-June-Sector-Deep-Dive-Report-2.pdf">Similar challenges across the broader construction sector</a> have left buyers asking more questions before signing a contract.

As Victoria continues encouraging higher-density housing to address supply shortages, transparency is becoming just as important as location or price.

One tool increasingly entering the conversation is the <a href="https://icirt.com/">Independent Construction Industry Rating Tool (iCIRT)</a>, an independent assessment framework designed to help buyers better understand the developer or builder behind a project. Originally developed by Equifax in consultation with government and industry as part of NSW's Construct NSW reforms, the system has since expanded nationally.

<h2 data-end="1519" data-section-id="7nmx3" data-start="1492">What is an iCIRT rating?</h2>

Most Australians are familiar with independent ratings in everyday life.

We compare ANCAP safety ratings before buying a car. We look at Health Star Ratings in supermarkets. Banks rely on credit assessments when lending money.

Until recently, however, there has been very little independent information available to help apartment buyers assess the business responsible for delivering a residential project.

That gap is what iCIRT was designed to address.

Builders, developers and other construction professionals with an iCIRT rating have demonstrated high-trust characteristics through an independent, evidence-based assessment across six criteria: Character, Capability, Conduct, Capacity, Capital and Counterparties. This involves a rigorous review of financial health, past project track record, and ethical conduct. Crucially, an iCIRT rating could help provide property buyers with confidence that they are working with a professional who has demonstrated the capability, capacity, and willingness to return and rectify issues.

Importantly, iCIRT is not a recommendation to purchase a particular property, nor is it a traditional credit rating. It is an independent assessment framework designed to provide objective information about a construction business using a <a href="https://icirt.com/sites/default/files/2025-08/iCIRT-Methodology-Issue1-May-2021.pdf">published methodology</a>.

The system has been widely adopted in New South Wales, where more than one-third of medium and large residential builders and developers now hold an iCIRT rating, representing over two-thirds of the state's residential building market by value as of 2025/26.

<h2 data-end="3126" data-section-id="h6ohtj" data-start="3084">Why buyers are doing more due diligence</h2>

For many buyers, particularly those purchasing off the plan, the biggest risk isn't whether they'll like the kitchen finishes.

It's whether the project will be delivered on time, to the expected quality, and by a company capable of completing the development.

<a href="https://icirt.com/sites/default/files/2026-07/iCIRT%202025%20Consumer%20Survey%20Report%20v05.pdf">Consumer research commissioned by iCIRT</a> found more than half of respondents believed current protections do not adequately safeguard buyers from builder insolvencies or defective projects. Other research found 88 per cent of prospective buyers would seek independent ratings or due diligence before purchasing, while 90 per cent said trust in construction professionals is essential.

That doesn't mean buyers should rely on a single rating alone.

Independent legal advice, understanding the contract, and seeking financial advice all remain important parts of the due diligence process.

However, an independent assessment can provide another source of information alongside those traditional checks.

<h2 data-end="4138" data-section-id="pquzxc" data-start="4094">Trust is becoming a competitive advantage</h2>

The conversation isn't only changing for buyers.

Developers are also recognising that trust has become an increasingly important part of the sales process.

Five years ago, purchasers typically asked about floorplans, finishes and settlement dates.

Today, sales teams are increasingly being asked about the developer's experience, financial stability, previous projects and construction partners.

For companies with strong governance and established delivery records, an independent iCIRT rating provides another way to demonstrate those credentials before buyers even visit a display suite.

According to Equifax, the assessment can also help businesses drive sales and <a href="https://icirt.com/resources-for-business/icirt-rating-helps-scion-secure-high-value-projects">secure high-value projects</a>, as well as identify operational improvements and <a href="https://icirt.com/resources-for-business/mirvac-reinforces-brand-trust-and-quality-independent-icirt-rating">attract top talent</a>.

<h2 data-end="4962" data-section-id="1j54ng5" data-start="4912">Beyond buyers: lenders are paying attention too</h2>

The influence of independent construction ratings is also extending beyond consumers.

According to Stamford Capital's Real Estate Debt Capital Markets Survey, an increasing number of lenders now incorporate iCIRT ratings into their due diligence processes when assessing residential development finance applications.

The survey found lender adoption has continued to rise, with many respondents saying independent assessments provide additional insight into governance, counterparties and delivery capability beyond traditional financial analysis. Some lenders also reported declining funding applications where businesses had poor or no ratings.

As construction costs remain elevated and access to development finance becomes more selective, demonstrating credibility is becoming increasingly valuable.

<h2 data-end="5801" data-section-id="1qazuxs" data-start="5772">What it means for Victoria</h2>

Victoria's apartment market is entering a new phase.

The state is seeking to accelerate higher-density housing while simultaneously introducing reforms aimed at improving confidence in residential construction.

For buyers, that means there are more tools available than ever before to research the businesses behind a project.

For developers, it signals that transparency is becoming another point of differentiation in an increasingly competitive market.

Buyers are asking more questions than ever before and increasingly expecting independent information, not just marketing material, before making one of the biggest financial commitments of their lives.

Find out how to get iCIRT rated <a href="https://www.icirt.com/sites/default/files/2025-08/iCIRT-Infographic-Assessment-Process-Final.pdf">here</a>.

<hr data-end="6469" data-start="6466" />
The information contained in this article is general in nature and does not constitute personal, financial, legal or tax advice. It does not take into account your personal objectives, financial situation or needs. Therefore, you should consider whether the information is appropriate to your circumstances before acting on it and, where appropriate, seek independent professional advice.

This article contains links to third-party websites. These links are provided for convenience only. Equifax Australia does not control and is not responsible for the content, accuracy or privacy practices of external sites.

Copyright © 2026 Equifax Australia Information Services and Solutions Pty Ltd. All rights reserved.

Buying off-the-plan in Melbourne? How independent iCIRT ratings are set to change Victorian property

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Two houses in one 654 sqm corner block in Strathfield South has changed hands via a mortgagee sale.
Ray White estate agents Peter Tsekenis and Elia Economou held the listing.
It sold for $1.8 million on July 7, 2020. 
The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-strathfield+south-133706610" target="_blank">2 William Street </a>site has two brick homes in a cul-de-sac with an access gate between the two, one in neat original condition, the other thoroughly renovated. 
Both offer three bedrooms, two bathrooms, open-plan living and a large entertainment deck. 
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Two mortgagee homes on one title in Strathfield South sold for $1.8 million

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Over the March quarter, Adelaide saw an increase in the portion of loss-making resales, with 10 per cent of properties seeing a nominal decline in the sale price, according to CoreLogic's Pain and Gain March Quarter 2020 report. 
This is a reversal of the trend seen in the December quarter, where loss- making sales had seen a consistent decline since September 2019.
Despite the increase in loss making sales, there were still pockets of the Greater Adelaide region where over 90.0 per cent of properties yielded a nominal gain. These include Tea Tree Gully, where 95.1 per cent of properties saw a profit, based on a typical hold period of 11.2 years. The median gain in the area was about $116,000.
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Source: CoreLogic Pain and Gain March Quarter 2020 report.
The lowest portion of profit making sales across Adelaide was in the City of Adelaide. 22.8 per cent of sales in the quarter saw a decline in the resale price, based on a median hold period of 9.0 years, and typical losses were $30,000.
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The Adelaide dwelling market faces some headwinds in terms of persistently high levels of unemployment, which has only been worsened by the onset of social distancing measures in response to COVID-19. As of May 2020, South Australia continued to see the highest rate of unemployment of the states and territories, at 7.2 per cent.
Low interest rates and strong rental yields across the Adelaide dwelling market have continued to support growth in the Adelaide property market, which was up 0.7 per cent in the June quarter, but momentum in the growth rate has been slowing over time. The incidence of profitability in resales is likely to slip further over the coming months, until the lifting of social distancing measures sees a material improvement in the labour market.
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Source: CoreLogic Pain and Gain March Quarter 2020 report.
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Adelaide saw an increase in loss-making resales: CoreLogic Pain & Gain

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Some 7.6 per cent of resales saw a nominal loss across Sydney, according to CoreLogic's Pain and Gain Report March Quarter 2020. 
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Alongside Hobart, Sydney was the only capital city to see a decline in 95 per cent the portion of loss making sales, down from 7.9 per cent in the previous quarter.  
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Source: CoreLogic Pain and Gain March Quarter 2020 report.
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Across the council regions of Sydney, the highest portion of loss making sales were across Burwood (22.4 per cent), Parramatta (15.9 per cent), and Ryde and Strathfield (13.5 per cent). The Burwood council region had a high portion of loss marking sales off a 75 per cent relatively low base. There were about 18 loss making sales observed across the region, most of them units with a relatively low hold period.
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Higher levels of profitability tended to concentrate in higher socio-economic areas of Sydney, such as North Sydney, where profit making transactions made up 98.0 per cent of resales in the quarter.
The Blue Mountains also proved to be the second most profitable region for property sales in the March quarter, with 96.9 per cent of sales seeing an increase in the nominal sale price. However, the gain in the region was relatively low, at $287,250.
Increased profitability in resales was aided by a strong uplift in dwelling values over the quarter. March saw Sydney dwelling values increase 3.9 per cent. Importantly, the decline in demand resulting from responses to the pandemic has since seen values fall - 0.8 per cent over June, which will likely manifest in more loss making sales in the coming months.
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Source: CoreLogic Pain and Gain March Quarter 2020 report.
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7.6% of Sydney resales saw a loss: CoreLogic Pain & Gain

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We are in recession; unemployment is rising, and we should be in a situation where house prices catastrophically fall. Yet, they remain resilient.
Across Australia, prices have softened slightly since March (except in Canberra), but comparing prices to the same time last year, Sydney is doing remarkably well. A lot of this has to do with how hot the market was leading up to March, but the surprising resilience is also being driven by a stable banking sector.
In Sydney, the strongest markets continue to be those priced well above the current house price median of $969,500. There are definitely some areas of weakness in Sydney at the moment, but it isn’t for houses in premium suburbs, many of which have seen double digit price growth.
Topping the list for price growth is Petersham with a 32% increase since last year. Meanwhile, the most expensive suburb on the top growth list is the north shore suburb of Lindfield, which is now getting close to a $3 million median.
It does appear that people are also keen to hold on to their properties if they can, and would prefer to tap into superannuation or selling shares.
A recent survey by Fidelity Investments found that 26% of Australians plans to access their super early in the next 12 months, while 4.5% plan to sell shares.In comparison only 1.8% plan to sell property. This is a major contributor to stable pricing; COVID-19 doesn’t appear to be denting our obsession with property.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2020/7/20/REA%20July%201.JPG" alt="">
NERIDA CONISBEE is the Chief Economist at REA
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nconisbee-4KnoX9XmtH

Sydney suburbs seeing double-digit price growth: REA's Nerida Conisbee

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With broad features from surfboard lockers to exclusive wine lockers, the $70 million Flow Residences has been launched on the southern Gold Coast.
Flow is the project of avid surfer and local property developer Paul Gedoun and his S &amp; S Projects on the Snapper Rocks destination.
Jayde Pezet is sales and marketing director of KM Sales and Marketing.
“Nothing has been left to chance. It is a project of unpretentious but elegant luxury that connects beautifully with the iconic Snapper Rocks with sweeping views of the Gold Coast.
Positioned on an elevated north-facing site, 1 Petrie Street, and overlooking Coolangatta’s Rainbow Bay, the project will deliver 22 premium residences exclusively for owner occupiers.
Architect Cottee Parker has designed Flow Residences.
“Flow Residences will appeal to downsizers looking for lifestyle at its best,” said Mr Pezet.
“It really is a stunning collection of beachfront apartments that blend the simplicity once found in a traditional coastal shack with luxurious apartments, superior finishes and a unique approach to resident amenities.
The exterior design features uncluttered lines and curved corners to take advantage of the prime corner location of Petrie Street and Marine Parade. The site directly overlooks Greenmount Beach and Rainbow Bay and each apartment offers spectacular ocean views of the pointbreak and the Gold Coast.
There will be 12 levels plus three levels of basement parking will provide at least two car parks for each apartment.
Apartments are available in two, three and four-bedroom formats and are priced from $1.175 million.
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Flow $70 million beachfront Coolangatta project launched

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Melbourne house and unit rents fell over the June quarter, with unit rents recording the first annual fall in 15 years, according to the Domain Quarterly Report for June.
With Inner Melbourne seeing house rents drop by $40 and units by $35 a week over the June quarter, alongside a rapid increase in the number of properties for lease, tenants are in a strong position to negotiate prices as their options expand.
<img src="https://mcusercontent.com/b16c0b957ea98f662ab985606/images/51b2c04a-57ee-441b-b0ab-6e0af9823a5a.png" width="1087" height="362" data-imagetype="External"> June 2020 QoQ change for Melbourne rental prices
“Melbourne’s rental prices fell over the June quarter for both houses and units. While house rents remained stable over the year, unit rents recorded the first annual fall in 15 years. The drop in unit rents have pushed gross rental yields to a near-record low.”
“Inner Melbourne felt the brunt of price declines over the June quarter, median house asking rents dropped a staggering $40 and units $35 a week. Vacancies have surged in inner Melbourne, with advertised rentals lifting 64 per cent from March to June. This has created a discounting war, forcing one-third of inner Melbourne landlords to slash asking rents in an attempt to secure a tenant.
“Many short-term leases have converted to long-term, increasing rental choice. With significant job losses and wage cuts, tenants may have relinquished higher-priced rentals in favour of affordability or to move in with family. Though international border closures have weakened demand, Melbourne is particularly exposed to a drop in overseas migration, student population and tourism, as a significant proportion of rental demand comes from overseas. This is particularly evident in the CBD, which also has a greater exposure to the industries most vulnerable to the job losses associated with the coronavirus pandemic and has a high proportion of households renting.”
“Vacancies are likely to remain high in the coming months across metropolitan and tourist areas, which could result in further rent reductions. Any potential renewed short-term demand from interstate travel has been curtailed as Melbourne enters a second lockdown,” said Domain Senior Research Analyst, Dr Nicola Powell.
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Melbourne unit rents fell for the first time in 15 years: Domain

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A mortgagee house, in the Adelaide suburb of Enfield, has come onto the market with an asking price of between $545,000 - $565,000.
Located at 12b Silver Street, the property features four bedrooms, three bathrooms, and a double car garage.
It is situated on a 339 square metre block.
The home was built in 2012, and last sold in 2016 for $530,000.
Enfield’s median house price is $442,222.00.
Brad Stevens, from First National Riggall, has the listing.
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Enfield mortgagee house listed for sale

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Melbourne's preliminary weekend clearance rate was 44.1 per cent after 197 reported price results from the 483 scheduled auctions.
The tally included some 193 withdrawn from auction, Domain reported.
It was the second July weekend with the rate in the 40s after the return to lockdown across the capital city. 
There were 85 reported online Melbourne auctions, with 60 selling, which was the highest recorded success rate for online to date, Domain research analyst Nicola Powell advised.
Melbourne's top sale was <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-kew-133806986" target="_blank">45 Walpole Street, Kew</a> (pictured) which fetched $4.21 million prior to its scheduled online auction.
Melbourne also saw a $3.67 million St Kilda West home.
The four-bedroom, two-bathroom house at 8 York Street was announced on the market at $3.5 million, by the Marshall White Stonnington agent John Bongiorno.
Sydney's preliminary clearance rate on Saturday was 64.6 per cent, after 471 scheduled auctions and 270 reported results. The rate included 77 withdrawn auctions.
The nation's cheapest was the $300,088 pre-auction sale at 15/38 Barrett St, Robertson. It had last sold from $80,000 in 1983.
Brisbane's top sale was just over $1 million when 43 Saint Helens Rd, Mitchelton was sold at $1.09 million.
Sydney’s highest sale was a four-bedroom, four-bathroom home in Vaucluse, on the market for the first time in 65-years.
It sold for $5,695,000 through Sydney Sotheby’s agent Michael Pallier.
There were five registered bidders for 61 Village High Road.
‘The buyer was a local but what drove the price was an expat in Singapore who had never seen the house and had a family member bidding for them. The third bidder, who bid up to $5.5 million, wanted to buy it for his 18-year-old daughter as a long-term hold. He looked at it an hour before the auction.," Pallier told Nine Entertainment.
Canberra had the country’s highest preliminary clearance rate of 90.6 per cent – reflecting the sale of 29 out of 32 reported auctions by CoreLogic.
 
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Melbourne auction weakness remains while Brisbane comes up the cheapest

<html><body>A COVID-induced spike in real estate enquiry has experts predicting a strong Whitsundays in the ‘new normal’. Reports across the country state city-dwellers are making a COVID-19-change and are trading their CBD cubicle for a remote office with room to enjoy tranquility. This newfound flexibility is believed to be behind the near-record number of online searches for Whitsunday property in recent months.  The lure of acreage seems to be the strongest, with leading real estate website <a href="http://domain.com.au/" target="_blank">Domain.com.au</a> experiencing a 507 per cent increase in searches for rural residential property in Cannonvale, and surrounding areas.  <a href="https://ecomms.raywhite.com/collect/click.aspx?u=V1I3c3ZNeXdEbDVDRmVndkZYMmJYT01wQzNoTU43Zk10SDRYRmRwZDB3QUdIb2k1M0RZNzZRK25pSWxLSXpSU0NJK0xDcnZJZlljMThnNFFMZEt1ckE9PQ==&amp;rh=ff006465a85cb54541341c264f419930d26ae172" target="_blank">Ray White Whitsunday</a> Sales Associate Brett Dwyer said he had been surprised by the increase in enquiry.  “It seems like anyone that has had the Whitsundays as their 'one-day' dream address has decided that now is the time to move, and the latest stimulus announcements have magnified this further,” Mr Dwyer said. <a href="https://ecomms.raywhite.com/collect/click.aspx?u=V1I3c3ZNeXdEbDVDRmVndkZYMmJYT01wQzNoTU43Zk10SDRYRmRwZDB3RGsyVUtad1h5clQ5dktQcnFTbGtrSzU4SnR4UC82dmkzamRXZ3k3UXZtWHc9PQ==&amp;rh=ff006465a85cb54541341c264f419930d26ae172" target="_blank">Hidden Valley Whitsundays</a>, a new estate outside of Cannonvale may well be the epicentre of new interest, receiving over $1.3 million of land offers in May alone.  Hidden Valley Project Manager Brett Evans was less surprised that southern eyes were looking north for an escape.  “I lived in the Whitsundays for years but I live in the city right now and I can tell you where I’d rather be when things get crazy. We all felt the walls closing in down here,” Mr Evans said. “After a few weeks of empty grocery shelves and being outsmarted by grade one home-schooling, we were definitely ready to hook the boat up and head north.”  With ten lots in the first stage of Hidden Valley sold to local buyers, it seems it’s not just the southern city-dwellers feeling claustrophobic. Locals are also looking for the security that comes with a few extra acres.  “The prospect of a more self-sufficient lifestyle and the security that comes with a few extra acres seem to be really strong motivators, which is understandable,” Mr Dwyer said. “Who hasn’t found themselves in lockdown staring at the neighbours’ fences on either side and thinking that a little extra space, a veggie garden and a few chickens sounds pretty good?”  Senior Analyst for <a href="https://ecomms.raywhite.com/collect/click.aspx?u=V1I3c3ZNeXdEbDVDRmVndkZYMmJYT01wQzNoTU43Zk10SDRYRmRwZDB3QUdIb2k1M0RZNzZWNkdQbFYzNnBuVktEOWJQZHIzaGVjYjV4Q0UwUkRxV0h1V2RROEp6eDRSWUlxNlIzZzljZUFwR2FjbmR2TFdtUT09&amp;rh=ff006465a85cb54541341c264f419930d26ae172" target="_blank">Ray White Northern Corridor Group</a>, Ashley Rees, said supply of quality acreage land could soon become an unexpected issue in the region.  “When the pandemic began, stock levels were already 14 per cent lower than they were at the same time last year,” Mr Rees said. “Add the new pressure of buyers cashing out of a strong southern market, to this renewed local demand, and we may soon find buyers struggling to find quality options.  “The Whitsundays has always offered an unbeatable lifestyle, but has been hamstrung by the lack of diverse employment options.  “For many it seems, the newfound acceptance of remote working in a post-lockdown world may have removed the last great barrier to living in this tropical playground.”</body></html>

Whitsundays proving to be a post-COVID-19 hotspot

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With restrictions easing on 15 May, Queensland saw relaxations for the real estate industry, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
The valuation firm took a look at how a budget of $700,000 could be invested in property markets across the nation. 
"There’s plenty to dig into for this month’s topic but first, a quick update on how our market is tracking," the valuation firm said. 
In-house auctions can now be conducted with ten members of the public present and a maximum of three agency representatives running the auction. 
Open home inspections can be carried out with a maximum of ten people allowed access. Names, addresses and mobile numbers must be taken by agency staff of any attendees for contact tracing purposes too.
"The easing of restrictions has seen an increase in listings and more activity at open homes. We have, however, yet to see evidence of changing transaction volumes or price movements. 
"That said, it is worth noting that Brisbane’s economy remains well placed for the future given the state’s low infection rate and slow-but-steady opening of businesses," the valuation firm said. 
"We note with some interest that subject to there being no second wave of infection, analysts remain optimistic of Brisbane’s property market remaining stable and likely for long-term recovery from this point on," the valuation firm said. 
"So, how should you spend that lazy $700,000?
"First up, let’s talk about who is buying at this price point. We are seeing activity from owner-occupiers, investors, upgraders, families and some first homeowners.
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"That’s right! Pretty much every buyer type is represented in some form," the valuation firm continued. 
Next, let’s see where you might spend this handsome chunk of change.  $700,000 will get you within reasonable proximity of the CBD, the report noted. 
For example, the desirable northern suburbs of Hendra, Wooloowin and Clayfield all have entry- level pre- and post-war dwellings on 405 square metres in secondary locations within this price point. 
"If you want to be within these desirable addresses and need something a bit newer, consider a new or near-new townhouse with three-to-four bedroom, two-bathroom, two-car accommodation," the valuation  firm said. 
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In locations such as Gordon Park, Stafford and Kedron, a detached dwelling on 405 square metres would be a good option. 
"In fact, we consider this a very strong market sector at present with good capital growth potential. If you have the money and are keen to invest, put these suburbs on your shortlist," the valuation firm said. 
Windsor, Wilston and Newmarket are well-serviced, inner-north addresses popular with families. There are some stunning residences here, however at this price point you’re likely to buy a modern townhouse that will have good value growth potential over the long term, the report noted. 
Heading south and the Carina and Carindale areas provide opportunity. A 1970 to 1980 high-set style dwelling with three-bedroom, one-bathroom accommodation and in good condition will be within your price range.
"If you need another bedroom, it’s still possible to buy at $700,000, but you might need to settle for a secondary position," the valuation firm said. 
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"Other addresses south of the river and within striking distance of this price point are Coorparoo, Camp Hill and Hawthorne, but you may have to settle for something on a busy road or small lot and you’re likely to find just two-bedders within the budget. Suffice it to say, you’re looking for an eager seller if this is your patch and price point," the valuation firm said. 
As mentioned earlier, the Coronavirus crisis has not resulted in a measurable fall in property prices across the Brisbane market generally and $700,000 is a solid value band, the report noted. 
As such, don’t expect to score a bargain due to the pandemic. A lack of listings means buyer choice is limited. In addition, many properties are trading off-market.
"So, what might offer excellent bang-for-buck at $700,000 in Brisbane?
"Our advice is usually to purchase as close as possible to the CBD for your budget. And in most cases, choose detached housing over and above attached housing and units. But at $700,000, your options are limited when it comes to suburbs within a five-kilometre radius of town," the valuation firm said. 
As such, choose fringe to mid-ring suburbs within close proximity to school catchments, amenities and public transport. You will also get larger housing lots for your budget in suburbs a bit further out, the report noted. 
"Our initial thoughts at this price point would be a reasonable quality home in Carina or Wynnum. Something on a circa 600 square metre allotment with an older highset dwelling to a good standard," the valuation firm said. 
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Gordon Park, Stafford and Kedron and their detached dwellings on 405 square metre lots are good options too. This is a buoyant part of the market at the moment and has good potential to achieve capital growth.
A current listing is a three bedroom house in Kedron with a price guide of $649,000.
Set on a 415sqm block, the <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-kedron-133701926" target="_blank">12 Howell Street</a> home (pictured below) comprises three bedrooms, open plan living and dining space, covered deck and double garage. 
It is situated within walking distance to local schools, shops and cafes. 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/7/13/kedron.jpg" alt="">
Also – for cash flow investors, have a look in the mid-to-fringe areas for duplex, dual occupancy or multi-unit/flat properties. These structures are still available within the dollar amount and the gross returns can be very strong.
"If you have your heart set on buying an apartment, then act with caution," the valuation firm said. 
New apartments in mid-ring localities as well as investment product throughout Brisbane should be viewed as medium-to-high risk even though they offer a lower price point in comparison to single unit dwellings. There’s still a large supply hanging over from previous years’ excess development and a softening in values is evident for off-the-plan purchases.
In short, capital growth in investor style units is highly unlikely in the short term, the report suggested. 
For example,<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-apartment-qld-cannon+hill-132163162" target="_blank"> Unit 511/22 Andrews Street, Cannon Hill </a>(pictured below) just sold for $375,000.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/7/13/cannon%20hill.jpg" alt="">
 It was previously purchased for $417,500 in October 2017. That’s a pretty hefty discount of 9.7 per cent over an almost three-year period, the report noted. 
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Instead of new, consider an older apartment with renovation potential in a good location with transport and amenities nearby.
Finally, $700,000 invested in Brisbane property will probably achieve a gross rental yield of around four to five per cent. 
For example, detached houses and townhouses in Gordon Park, Stafford and Kedron achieve circa $550 per week.
"The future of property at this price point looks stable over the next couple of market cycles, although caution is required in the short-to-mid term under current market conditions. There’s still too much uncertainty out there at present," the valuation firm said. 
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