<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/broadbeach-qld-4218">Broadbeach</a> offers plenty of reasons to live vertically, but moving from a substantial family home into an apartment can expose the compromises of high-density living. Privacy, room for guests and usable living space tend to matter more when an apartment is intended as a permanent home rather than an occasional coastal base.

A typical residential floor at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-eveleigh-broadbeach-7-9-surf-parade-broadbeach-qld-4218">The Eveleigh</a>, on Surf Parade,&nbsp;contains just four apartments. The 94-residence development by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/hirsch-faigen">Hirsch &amp; Faigen</a> is predominantly made up of expansive three-bedroom homes, with a limited collection of half-floor penthouses above.

Across the apartment floors, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a> has used the relatively limited number of residences to give each home greater access to natural light and outlook. Living spaces extend towards full-height glazing, while a series of bay windows frame selected views across the Pacific Ocean, city and hinterland rather than treating the building edge as a continuous wall of glass.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149670 project_image_fid=360965]

“The apartment floors deliver a collection of homes that embrace controlled outlook via a series of bay windows deliberately framing moments of view,” Rothelowman Director Kim Lowman said.

From outside, those projecting forms contribute to the tower’s faceted profile. Strong horizontal and vertical elements establish its proportions, while the changing position of the sun alters the light, shadow and reflection across the façade throughout the day.

The same attention moves inside the apartments, where the material palette combines warm timber, natural stone, metallic detailing and softer curved forms. Kitchens sit within the main living zone, with stone island benches, integrated joinery and European appliances, before the living areas extend towards the glazing and the outlook.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149670 project_image_fid=360981]

Three genuine bedrooms provide room to accommodate family and guests, while two secure car spaces and storage address some of the practical considerations that can become more noticeable when moving from a larger home. Feedback from the display suite has centred on the warmth and restraint of the interiors, with buyers commenting that the residences feel like homes rather than conventional coastal apartments.

A limited collection of half-floor penthouses occupies the upper levels, increasing the scale of the living spaces and adding private balconies and elevated finishes. From this position, the outlook extends between the ocean and hinterland.

Outside the private residences, The Eveleigh separates its shared spaces between the podium and rooftop. The podium is centred on wellness, with subtropical landscaping surrounding a swimming pool and pool terrace, yoga garden, private gymnasium, sauna and hot and cold plunge facilities. Landscaped retreats and pavilions provide additional places to sit away from the main recreation areas.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149670 project_image_fid=360966]

Higher in the building, a rooftop pavilion and private dining suite sit alongside resident lounge, barbecue and outdoor dining areas, opening towards panoramic views across the ocean, city and hinterland.

“Buyers are no longer just looking for an apartment, but a lifestyle where they can relax, reset, and enjoy a balanced way of living,” Hirsch &amp; Faigen Director of Sales Matt George said.

Interest to date has come from established owner-occupiers and interstate lifestyle purchasers, including buyers planning a future move to the Gold Coast. Many are coming from larger homes and want to reduce ongoing maintenance without giving up space for family and guests, privacy, two car spaces or the ability to entertain at home.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149670 project_image_fid=360969]

Much of that daily life can also take place beyond the building without requiring a drive. Kurrawa Beach and Pratten Park are an easy walk from Surf Parade, while Pacific Fair, Oracle Boulevard, The Oasis, restaurants, cafés, entertainment and public transport are also within walking distance.

The Eveleigh is Hirsch &amp; Faigen's fourth Gold Coast development since entering the market in 2021, following The Hemingway at Palm Beach, The Emerson at Kirra and Yves at Mermaid Beach. Each of the preceding projects sold out before completion.

“Broadbeach had been on our radar throughout our time operating on the Gold Coast,” the developer said. “Following our projects in Palm Beach, Kirra and Mermaid Beach, Broadbeach represented the natural next step for the business.”

The Surf Parade site brought together proximity to the beach, protected coastal outlooks and walkability to dining, shopping and recreation. Hirsch &amp; Faigen also identified the street as an emerging premium residential address, with enough separation from Broadbeach's busier destinations to retain a quieter environment at home.

The Eveleigh is now under construction by Maxcon, with completion forecast for mid-2028. Three-bedroom residences are currently available from $2.87 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=149670]

Joel Robinson

The Eveleigh brings house-like apartments to Broadbeach

A long-stalled Campbelltown development site is back in play, with new plans for 139 apartments set to supersede a mixed-use scheme approved almost a decade ago but never built.

The new proposal for 28 Cordeaux Street would deliver 116 market and 23 affordable apartments in a part 14-storey building, bringing a substantial new project into a Campbelltown market where new apartment supply remains limited.

Plans have been filed over the 3,092 sqm corner site at Moore-Oxley Street, around 600 metres from Campbelltown Railway Station and the city-centre retail core.

The site already carries a mixed-use residential approval dating to 2016. Doroch Architects has now been engaged on a larger replacement scheme, which is progressing as a State Significant Development Application following a Housing Delivery Authority determination in August 2025.

The apartment mix comprises 39 one-bedroom, 72 two-bedroom and 28 three-bedroom residences. Two-bedroom apartments make up just over half of the project, while three-bedroom homes account for 20 per cent.

<img alt="First look: New 139-apartment plans revive long-stalled Campbelltown city centre site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="136dd5b9-3791-4da6-9e31-76f533f5b4de" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Campbelltown%20da2.png?VersionId=LgOSy9nwf5u.MGswBBwaGGxuX8QpHSl_" />

Of the 139 apartments, 23 will be delivered as affordable housing under the in-fill affordable housing provisions of the Housing SEPP. The affordable component represents 15 per cent of the residential gross floor area and will be managed by a registered Community Housing Provider.

Doroch has sought to break the scale of the building into two distinct elements, with a masonry podium of around four storeys establishing the street edge before the residential tower steps back above.

The corner position has shaped that approach. Cordeaux Street faces toward the commercial and civic centre, while Moore-Oxley Street leads into the lower-scale residential neighbourhood to the south, and the design verification report describes the site as "bridging the commercial core to the north and established residential areas to the south."

The podium will be expressed predominantly in face brick, while the upper levels shift to brushed and grooved concrete cladding with darker metal detailing. Recessed sections, deep balcony edges and landscaping break down the upper form, with an approximately 11.8-metre setback to the northern boundary addressing the adjoining St Peters Anglican School.

<img alt="First look: New 139-apartment plans revive long-stalled Campbelltown city centre site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c8b3d2d3-c561-4bfc-a5d9-a68c0c10dac1" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Campbelltown%20da1.png?VersionId=AeAEyJU02Gk2k5noUj2StziCvdQ7fW4B" />

Campbelltown has been starved of new residential developments in the last decade.

The only other notable development set to come to market this year is ALAND's Queen Square, a mixed-use precinct on over two hectares that will comprise apartments above a vibrant ground-level retail and hospitality dining precinct.

First look: New 139-apartment plans revive long-stalled Campbelltown city centre site

First Look: Sherlock Construction pitches apartments for low-rise Deception Bay

Queensland builder-developer MAYD has revealed the first look at its major North Kirra beachfront development, lodging amended plans that reduce the number of apartments and increase the proportion of larger residences.

The project is planned across a substantial 4,742 sqm amalgamated site spanning seven lots at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/2-6-pacific-parade-bilinga-qld-4225">2-6 Pacific Parade</a> and 27-33 Golden Four Drive in Bilin​ga, directly opposite Nor​th Kirra Beach.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mayd-group">MAYD</a> secured the site for $32.5 million in 2025, in what was one of the Gold Coast's largest property transactions of the year.

The development will be delivered across two stages, with the first stage carrying an estimated gross realisation value of around $360 million.

The latest amendments seek to reduce the overall apartment count and shift the project further toward the owner-occupier market, with larger residences designed for buyers wanting considerably more space than traditionally offered in a beachfront apartment.

The residential mix will include townhomes, oversized two-bedroom apartments, substantial three-bedroom residences and four-bedroom homes.

MAYD has appointed Cera Stribley to lead the architecture and interiors, with the Melbourne-based design practice drawing on the beachfront setting through a series of ocean-facing terraces and heavily landscaped balconies.

Strong horizontal forms and curved balconies will define the exterior, with subtropical landscaping integrated throughout the building to soften the built form and increase the connection between the residences and the beachfront.

The project will also include an extensive collection of resident wellness and lifestyle facilities, continuing the broader shift across the Gold Coast's luxury apartment market toward larger homes supported by resort-style amenity.

<img alt="MAYD" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d1bcbb05-e659-4b47-8bd4-1e595315e2ad" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-27%20at%202.05.03%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=jj0XEud1X1DuLt7_KyElhjMdZGOXmLHP" />

MAYD Founder Todd Mould said North Kirra was increasingly appealing to buyers attracted to the more established, lower-density character of the southern Gold Coast.

"North Kirra presents one of the most compelling luxury residential opportunities currently emerging in Australia, combining absolute beachfront with the character and authenticity that buyers are increasingly seeking, and the same sense of tight-knit community that defined Burleigh and Currumbin perhaps 10 or 15 years ago," Mould said.

"With Gold Coast Airport on its doorstep, it also offers a level of accessibility that broadens its appeal across almost every market demographic."

The project comes as the southern Gold Coast continues to attract an increasing share of high-end apartment development and buyer activity.

Kirra in particular has emerged as one of the region's more tightly held beachfront markets, with its relatively low-density character, established surf and hospitality scene and proximity to Gold Coast Airport differentiating it from the higher-density markets further north.

Mould said those characteristics had informed the approach MAYD and Cera Stribley had taken to the project.

"We've worked closely with Cera Stribley to create a vision that is deeply connected to its surroundings," he said.

"Inspired by the coastline itself, the architecture has been shaped around space, privacy and resort-style living, creating a collection of homes that reflects the next generation of luxury on the southern Gold Coast."

MOTIV Managing Director Carly Cottam, who has been appointed to market the project, said buyer attention had continued to move south along the Gold Coast.

"Purchasers who may once have defaulted to Broadbeach, Main Beach or Surfers Paradise are increasingly recognising the value of a genuine beachfront location that offers lower density, strong amenity and a more established sense of community," Cottam said.

"Kirra has a powerful combination of growing demand and genuine scarcity. Beachfront supply is inherently constrained, the area remains relatively low density, and buyers are increasingly placing a premium on locations that feel established, uncrowded and authentic rather than heavily developed."

Cottam said the proximity to Gold Coast Airport was also proving increasingly important for interstate and second-home buyers.

"Being minutes from Gold Coast Airport makes it particularly compelling for interstate buyers, frequent travellers and second-home purchasers who can access an authentic coastal lifestyle almost immediately after stepping off a flight."

The acquisition takes MAYD's active development portfolio to more than $500 million, with the North Kirra project representing one of its largest undertakings to date.

MAYD is targeting an early 2027 launch.

First look at MAYD's North Kirra mixed-use precinct

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Castle Hill, the longtime hub of the Hills District, has been one of the major beneficiaries of Sydney's Metro expansion, with improved connectivity helping drive continued population growth, development and buyer demand across the Hills District.

But despite that growth, the suburb has seen relatively few major new apartment projects brought to market over the past 18 months.

Hills District developer Reve Group is looking to fill that gap with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/nova-r-ve-castle-hill-2-garthowen-crescent-castle-hill-nsw-2154">Nova Rêve</a>, a major new mixed-use precinct on the corner of Garthowen Crescent and Old Castle Hill Road, a short walk from Castle Hill Metro Station and Castle Towers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377679]

The project will comprise three residential towers alongside a hotel, restaurants, cafes and a skybar, more than 1,600 sqm of ground-floor retail and almost an acre of landscaped gardens.

It represents the largest project undertaken by Reve Group, the development arm of the Kassis family, which has been building across the Hills District for more than 30 years through Kassis Homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377675]

Nova Rêve also represents a significant step up from the family's first apartment development, Grand Rêve, which was delivered nearby on Garthowen Crescent.

Grand Rêve introduced larger, house-like apartment layouts and premium inclusions including Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances to the Castle Hill market.

Nova Rêve takes that approach to a precinct scale, combining the residential component with hospitality, retail and substantial public and resident landscaping.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377685]

Reve Group Managing Director Sam Kassis said the project reflected the family's three decades of building in the Hills, which has evolved from trophy homes on quarter-acre blocks to larger-scale apartment development.

"Grand Rêve was our first apartment project here and it showed us what this pocket of Castle Hill could be. Nova Rêve is the refinement of that idea: not just apartments, but a place the whole suburb can use," Kassis said.

A key part of that approach is the hotel, which has been designed to operate as an amenity for the wider Castle Hill community rather than solely hotel guests.

It will include restaurants, cafes, skybars and all-day dining, alongside conference and event facilities catering to business functions, community groups and private events.

At ground level, more than 1,600 sqm of shops and cafes will open onto the surrounding streets and landscaped areas.

Almost an acre of gardens designed by Land and Form Studios will run through the precinct, incorporating pathways, seating, barbecue areas and children's play spaces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377680]

Reve Group's Romio Georges said creating an active ground plane had been central to the planning of Nova Rêve.

"There are gardens with pathways, barbecues, seating and play areas, shops and cafes opening onto the street, and a hotel with restaurants and a skybar that anyone in Castle Hill can walk into," Georges said.

The project's elevated position on one of Sydney's highest ridgelines will also provide apartments with outlooks toward the Sydney skyline, surrounding parkland and the Blue Mountains.

More than 80 per cent of the apartments will occupy corner positions, with Turner responsible for both the architecture and interiors.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152737]

<h3 data-end="3697" data-section-id="q3n5ak" data-start="3672">&nbsp;</h3>
</main>

Nova Rêve arrives as Reve Group bets on Castle Hill's next growth phase

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>

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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.

<img alt="iCIRT" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="dcbb59af-3d5a-43aa-b28e-a66e55a83568" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Announcement.png?VersionId=6OD8r.v.oucEF01BWxR85urzoD9seQ9e" />

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.

<img alt="mirvac" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1c11c691-e8cd-46c3-88fd-6c8d614e8357" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/mirvac.png?VersionId=ZqDqNL36WJOOCmNMmmO93Q2GTrFOBomz" />Mirvac is a 5 Gold Star iCIRT rated developer, the highest possible rating a developer can get: Harbourside by Mirvac

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.

<img alt="iCIRT" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="958e1497-8151-4689-aadc-baf59f6e6122" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/iCIRT-Infographic-Assessment-Process-Final.png?VersionId=7KyVcwSo4vCLXBYBdq382e3Si.R.9PWQ" />

<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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No Brisbane municipalities escaped losses for property sales during the March quarter, according to the latest <a href="https://www.myrpdata.com/" target="_blank">RP Data</a> Pain and Gain report.
All eight Brisbane council regions saw some loss making sales in the quarter.
Ipswich had the highest volume of loss-taking, with 19.2% of properties sold in the quarter securing less than their purchase price. In Ipswich, the median loss was $21,000. The proportion of losses was second highest in Moreton Bay, where the median loss was $25,000. 
The biggest losses were taken in Somerset, with a median $33,750 drop.
Profits outweighed losses in all Brisbane municipalities. The biggest typical profits were seen in the Scenic Rim region, with a median profit of $170,000, and the Brisbane municipality, with a $140,000 gain. 
Some 10.9% of Brisbane homes which re-sold over the March 2014 quarter sold at a loss, down from 16.6% at the same time last year. The proportion of loss-making re-sales is at the lowest level since the quarter to May 2011. 
Click to open in new window:
<a href="/images/2014/06/19/brisbane-june-19-chart.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2014/06/19/brisbane-june-19-chart.jpg" alt=""></a>
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jrichardson-uRX5hFdKfN

Losses seen in all Brisbane regions for March quarter, with Ipswich the biggest loser 

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It’s getting colder as we enter into the heart of winter and it’s unsurprising that most of us are pumping up the heating and bringing out the mittens.
While Property Observer can’t change the weather, as much as some of us would like to bring summer earlier, we can certainly celebrate the properties that it inspires. To bring a little bit of cheer, we’re sharing six gorgeous ski lodges that are on the market promising something of a personal winter wonderland.
The first is<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-tas-ben+lomond-106392876" target="_blank"> O Zermatt Lodge in the Ben Lomond national park</a>.
<img src="/images/2014/06/19/Ben%20Lomond%20june%2019%20one.jpg" alt="">
Seeking offers over $150,000, this is our only Tasmanian offering on the list and is a “cedar clad” ski lodge and is a leasehold offering. It’s in the highest residential location in the state, and notes that it has views of a third of Tasmania.
It comes with a generator, full insulation, a new roof, a bunk room that sleeps six on lounge fold out beds, a fireplace, and cooking facilities, this one-bedroom, one-bathroom property is a cute getaway for those looking to don their skis.
<img src="/images/2014/06/19/Ben%20Lomond%20june%2019%20two.jpg" alt="">
It is the first time is has been offered for public sale and is wonderfully secluded.
We particularly love the completely iced-over main image, with just the suggestion of a chimney peeking out.
<img src="/images/2014/06/19/Ben%20Lomond%20june%2019%20three.jpg" alt="">
<img src="/images/2014/06/19/Ben%20Lomond%20june%2019%20four.jpg" alt="">
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This next lodge, in Victoria, is named <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-mount+hotham-107269241" target="_blank">“Igloo” at “Absollut”</a> and is at 9 Hot Plate Drive, Mount Hotham.
<img src="/images/2014/06/19/hotham%20june%2019%20one.jpg" alt="">
Looking for a $298,000 buyer, the two-bedroom one-bathroom ground floor lodge apartment is a contemporary style, with a building façade that our eyes are frosted over by.
It’s right near the ski runs, and the building is apparently renowned for its quality build and low maintenance requirements. The foyer includes ski storage.
<img src="/images/2014/06/19/hotham%20june%2019%20two.jpg" alt="">
The bathroom has a spa bath, which we think would be very welcome after a day of skiing, and it includes pay TV access, dishwasher, intercom and built-in wardrobes, with broadband internet available.
There’s no balcony alike the upstairs apartments, however it retains the hotel-feel of the lodge. It’s aptly up for sale with agents Paul Englisch and Jo Winter (a fabulous surname for an agent with Alpine Property agency).
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Another Victorian opportunity is this commercial or private ski lodge offering in Mt Baw Baw Ski Resort Village.
10 Site at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-alpine-vic-mt+baw+baw-107399829" target="_blank">10 Mt Baw Baw Alpine Resort</a>, it has been fully renovated in “recent years,” notes the listing, and is a two storey lodge offering four bedrooms that could sleep 12 comfortably and two bathrooms.
<img src="/images/2014/06/19/baw%20baw%20june%2019%20one.jpg" alt="">
Near to village entertainment and dining, with easy access to ski lifts and trails, it may be a redevelopment opportunity depending on council approval.
They’re hoping for $325,000 to $350,000 for the 963 square metre site that’s beautifully nestled away in the trees, and looks very welcoming with the warm amber lights on.
<img src="/images/2014/06/19/baw%20baw%20june%2019%20two.jpg" alt="">
<img src="/images/2014/06/19/baw%20baw%20june%2019%20three.jpg" alt="">
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At <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-alpine-nsw-thredbo+village-114643759" target="_blank">3/8 Summit Way in New South Wales’ Thredbo Village</a> is a freestanding ski lodge that has been owned by the same family for “many years”.
<img src="/images/2014/06/19/thredbo%20juine%2019%20one.jpg" alt="">
It’s in the Woodridge estate, which is right in the middle of Thredbo, and the home is known as Milkwood. With two-bedrooms, it’s tri-level and includes a main bedroom with built-ins, a loft space, two living areas, two-bathrooms, a drying room, two open car spaces and a fireplace.
<img src="/images/2014/06/19/thredbo%20juine%2019%20two.jpg" alt="">
They’re seeking $895,000, noting it’s one of very few freestanding properties in the area.
It has something of a tree-house feel, and we love the circular window in the loft room.
<img src="/images/2014/06/19/thredbo%20juine%2019%20three.jpg" alt="">
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If you’re looking for something cheaper to get in on the winter action, then you can purchase a Queen Suite room for $50,000 at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-alpine-vic-falls+creek-115846275" target="_blank">Victoria’s Summit Ridge Alpine Lodge</a>. The rooms, 12, 13, 14 and 15 at 8 Schuss Street, Falls Creek, would be able to be used for two weeks a season by the purchaser.
<img src="/images/2014/06/19/falls%20creek%20june%2019%20one.jpg" alt="">
The lodge is on the highest street in Falls Creek, with ski-in, ski-out access and seclusion.
Each room comes with a queen-sized bed, full bathroom and bathtub and a living area, and the communal area includes a lovely fireplace.
It has views of the Bogong Valley and snow-capped mountains.
<img src="/images/2014/06/19/falls%20creek%20june%2019%20two.jpg" alt="">
<img src="/images/2014/06/19/falls%20creek%20june%2019%20three.jpg" alt="">
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In Victoria’s Mount Buller,<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-alpine-vic-mount+buller-113045787" target="_blank"> Snowdown Lodge, or 140 Delatite Lane</a>, is up for sale. Seeking $740,000, the 24 bed commercial lodge is on 982 square metres and has large picture windows.
<img src="/images/2014/06/19/buller%20june%2019%20one.jpg" alt="">
The tri-level property positions the kitchen on the upper level, with a living and dining area, and double bedroom with ensuite.
The middle level includes laundry facilities, a storage area, a drying room and five bunk rooms, two bathrooms and a separate toilet.
<img src="/images/2014/06/19/buller%20june%2019%20two.jpg" alt="">
The lower level includes the owner’s accommodation, with two bedrooms, living area, kitchenette and bathroom.
A village shuttle visits every 30 minutes to the bus stop that is metres from the front door in winter season. It’s furnished, and close to amenities.
The chosen pictures of the area are Property Observer’s perfect idea of a winter wonderland, and the bunk rooms appear cosy and ready for visitors.
<img src="/images/2014/06/19/buller%20june%2019%20three.jpg" alt="">
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jduke-EHk3XBmHkn

Six ski lodges for sale to help you brave the cold

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Sydney's price growth this year will be between 5% to 8%, estate agent John McGrath forecasts.
"That would give us a collective 20% growth for the first couple of years of this cycle and that’s a significant – yet sustainable, rise in property values," he told the readers of <a href="https://www.switzer.com.au/the-experts/john-mcgrath-property-expert" target="_blank">his Switzer blog</a>.
He still expects further price growth in 2014 but says it will inevitably slow. 
John McGrath had earlier this year forecast up to 10% growth this year, so the upper range of his forecast has been adjusted slightly downwards.
"In Sydney, I think we will see 5% to 8% growth this year off the back of almost 15% last year," he said this week.
McGrath says the past year in Sydney real estate had been a "really exciting time."
"The market has been in full recovery mode and the hottest I’ve seen it in many years. 
"However, people are now starting to talk about it being all over," he recently noted. 
"I’ve been doing this for over 30 years and I can tell you recoveries never occur in a straight line. 
"We often have a bull run at the start; then after a period of great growth, it eases off. 
"Buyers become concerned they’re going to pay too much, others get sick of missing out and take a break. 
"Demand comes off the boil and price growth slows.  And that’s the key. It slows, it doesn’t stop or go into reverse.   It’s very healthy for markets to take a breather now and then during a new growth cycle. 
"That’s how price bubbles are prevented. 
"We saw 14.5% growth in 2013. At the start of this year, I was tipping 5 to 10% growth with an inevitable decline in the frenzied activity of 2013.  Sydney achieved 4.1% in the first quarter.  If we have just 0.5% growth every month for the remaining nine, we’ll end up with 8.6% for the year. That’s good, steady growth."  John McGrath said last year, the strongest segment in Sydney was inner city and beachside markets between $750,000 and $2 million. 
"Now, we’re seeing more activity in the higher price brackets and RP Data’s research confirms this trend." He said that as with most market recoveries in Australia, what happens in Sydney eventually happens everywhere else. 
"If Sydney is starting to slow down overall, other markets are probably about to heat up."
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

John McGrath lowers his 2014 Sydney forecast to 5-8% price growth

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People who stare at graphs on computer screens and never get out of the office are lining up to declare that the national property boom is over.
I’d like to declare that we haven’t had a national property boom - but one is about to start.
Here’s what I mean. The only price boom so far has been in Sydney. A national property boom is when all the capital cities and many significant regional centres record double-digit annual price growth. We clearly did not have that in 2013: only Sydney among the major cities excelled last year. The last time we had a national property boom was a decade ago.
Those who think that we’ve had a significant national event – and one that has now ended – are making a series of mistakes ...
<ul>
<li>They’re looking at national data and failing to understand that Sydney is elevating all the national figures.</li>
<li>They’re extrapolating the Sydney situation nationwide.</li>
<li>They’re being swayed by monthly aberrations with median prices and other statistics.</li>
<li>They’re over-analysing auction data.</li>
</ul>
In other words, they’re stupid and they’re lazy.
Meanwhile, significant momentum is building in real estate around Australia. Home-buyers remain busy and investors are becoming increasingly active. Building approvals are continuing their upward trend (ignoring the occasional monthly distortion). The latest survey shows a rise in consumer sentiment towards real estate.
Above all else, there is a rising tide of sales activity in most parts of Australia.
Many markets in Sydney and Melbourne still have upward momentum. But, more importantly, other capital cities are stirring. In Brisbane, Adelaide and Hobart, which last year showed little in the way of price growth, have significantly rising sales volumes.
Darwin, which appeared to taper off in 2013, sparked back to life late in the year and early in 2014. Perth, which did well in late 2012 and early 2013, still has many markets with growing sales activity.
There is also a push happening in regional Australia. Sydney’s growth has rippled out to nearby regional cities, such as Gosford, Newcastle and Wollongong. There are also busy markets in Dubbo, Tamworth, Wagga Wagga, Goulburn, Albury, Tweed Heads, Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour.
Perhaps the greatest centre of <a href="/news/qld/regional-queensland-back-on-the-growth-path-with-sustained-momentum">strongly rising regional markets is Queensland</a>. Cairns, the Sunshine Coast, the Gold Coast, Hervey Bay, Townsville and Toowoomba all have a major head of steam.
There are few major population centres in <a href="/news/sa/adelaide-is-the-standout-market-and-opportunity-for-investors">South Australia outside Adelaide</a>, but two of them are ascendant markets: Mount Gambier and Port Lincoln. A number of markets in Western Australia, notably south of Perth, are sparking to life, including those in Mandurah, Bunbury and Busselton.
My conclusion is that rumours of the death of the Australian property boom have been greatly exaggerated. In many ways, it’s just in its infancy.
You can contact Terry via  <a href="https://mailto:ryder@hotspotting.com.au" target="_blank">email</a> or on <a href="https://www.twitter.com/hotspotting" target="_blank">Twitter</a>.
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terryryder-YECXbqmri2

The property boom isn't over - it's only just beginning

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Sandringham’s beaches and village amenities are a major draw card for buyers.
As of 2011, Melbourne’s <a href="/news">Sandringham</a> had a population of 9,309. There are 3,885 private homes in the suburb, with an average of 2.5 people per household. The median weekly income in 2011 was $1,836, with a median monthly mortgage payment of $2,500 according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics.
According to RP Data, the median house price in the suburb was $2,100,500 for May. April saw a median house price of $1,625,000.
The suburb’s median house price dropped in 2012 (by 10.1%), as it did to a lesser extent in the neighbouring <a href="/news">Hampton</a> in the same year. Both suburbs saw a recovery in 2013, with Sandringham’s median house price up 8.1% in 2013. The median unit price was $525,000 for May.  
This home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-sandringham-116721703" target="_blank">6 Keats Street in Sandringham</a> (pictured below) is currently on the market, with price expectations between $2,100,000 and $2,200,000.
 <img src="/images/2014/06/16/main%207.jpg" alt="">
The four bedroom art deco home with a pool is marketed by Jenny Dwyer and Warren Smith of Hocking Stuart Sandringham. Set on a 757 square metre block, the renovated home with a pool is within walking distance of the beach and Sandringham station.
Paul Bond of Hodges Real Estate Sandringham says the suburb offers a diverse blend of properties.
“Sandringham has a variety of housing styles,” says Bond. “Art deco homes, Edwardian properties and Californian bungalows are all well sought after by families.
“In addition, the area has a number of more modern townhouses, semis and terraces as well as luxury apartment blocks and courtyard properties which are popular with the older residents. The area has a number of quiet streets which offer the perfect piece of suburban life.”
With solid year on year growth, Bond believes that Sandringham is a suburb to consider for investors.
“However, there is a high demand for property in the area so it pays to know what you are looking for and possibly consider properties that need some renovation as a more affordable way of gaining a foothold in the area,” he advises. He also notes the rise of rental properties in the area.
“Renters make up almost a quarter of the property market in the area - a number which has increased in the past five years,” says Bond.
“This makes investing in the buy to let market in the area a good decision with average rents yielding $400 per week for a unit and $795 per week for a home.
Bond says that the beachside lifestyle drives demand for the suburb.
“Health and fitness enthusiasts are attracted to Sandringham as it offers a perfect environment for a healthy outdoor lifestyle. With almost a quarter of the area being made up of green space and parkland, residents can often be found running, walking and cycling along the foreshore,” says Bond.
The suburb is also home to golf courses, the Sandringham Yacht Club and the Sandringham Football club.
According to Bond, Sandringham’s village lifestyle also makes the suburb popular with residents.
“The main retail area is around Station Street and offers an array of cafes including the kitsch, Cuppa Cottage, a quirky café popular with the local parents for its babycinos and homemade cakes,” he says.
“The area also has a number of restaurants and takeaway shops as well as independent bookstores, toy shops and speciality food stores which are in keeping with the village lifestyle.”
Located 16 kilometres from the Melbourne CBD, Sandringham has a train station that can get residents to the city in just under half an hour. Schools in nearby suburbs such as Brighton Grammar, Firbank, Xavier, St Leonard's, Star of the Sea, Haileybury College and Mentone Girls' Secondary College are also an attraction for buyers.
Bond advises investors to remember the fundamentals if they are considering an investment property in Sandringham.
“When buying to rent it is important to consider location, location, location to secure maximum return on investment. For example ensuring your property is within a few minutes walking distance to transport and shops and in the catchment area of good schools will make it more desirable than competing properties as these are often fundamental requirements for potential renters,” he says.
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Suburb spotlight: Does Sandringham’s lifestyle market stack up for investors?

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A top floor Hawthorn East penthouse  in the Aerial development is on the market, seeking a $3.8 million buyer.
The 901/480 Riversdale Road, Hawthorn East, <a href="https://www.aerial.com.au%20" target="_blank">Aerial Apartments</a> penthouse is being sold through Melbournia Group and is 260 square metres internally plus a 128 square metre wrap-around balcony.
Covering the entire top floor of the Aerial Apartments development, it includes four bedrooms, four bathrooms and four underground car parks, with a northerly aspect.
The Aerial development included 144 one-, two- and three- bedroom apartments, as well as a number of sub-penthouses. It is two towers, up to 14 levels in the tallest. At street level, the towers include retail tenants.
The development went off to a rocky start, being <a href="/expert-insights/buying/completion-of-fkp-s-apartment-project-aerial-in-camberwell-junction-delayed">delayed in 2012 due to weather and union issues</a>.
It was <a href="/news/vic/fkp-completes-construction-of-delayed-aerial-apartment-project-in-camberwell">finally complete in November 2012</a>.
With city skyline views, the penthouse comes furnished and is complete – offered in the final collection launch for the development.
Luxury features include ceilings up to 3.8 metres high, a stand-alone bathtub, a private lobby entrance and an integrated sound system.
The building was designed by Wood Marsh, and developed by AVEO Group, and offers a communal dining room, 24 hour concierge, a 12-seat cinema and a roof top pool and sun deck.
Melbournia Group’s Zoe Zhu said that it has had no expense spared and includes a kitchen that’s over double the size of a standard offering.
“The purchasers of this top level penthouse will be just moments from the region’s top private schools, prestigious shopping strips, incredible cafés and restaurants, the iconic Camberwell market and more,” noted Zhu.
“This penthouse represents the jewel in the crown of Aerial apartments and as such it had been held back from the market until recently after the building reached completion as we knew this apartment had to be seen to be believed.”
The penthouse is open for inspection by appointment.
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Top floor Hawthorn East penthouse seeks $3.8 million buyer

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Western Australia’s two apartment sites at Claremont on the Park have seen Mirvac named as the chosen developer, looking to bring a minimum of 178 apartments to the area.
Lands Minister Terry Redman said that Mirvac had been chosen after a rigorous selection process.
The entire <a href="https://www.landcorp.com.au/Residential/Claremont-on-the-Park/%20" target="_blank">Claremont on the Park</a> development is a 9.4 hectare site north of the rail line, which will include residential, commercial and recreation space.
Mirvac had been shortlisted after a “really strong response” to the expressions of interest campaign, noted LandCorp general manager metropolitan Luke Willcock in February.
Now they have been announced as the chosen developer, above Pindan and Victorian-based developer Caydon Property Group, for the project.
The two apartment sites sit on lots 504 and 505, and look to provide housing for more than 350 people, with the entire development to house 1,000 people in 700 homes.
The site is walking distance to Claremont’s shopping precinct and the railway station, and is noted to have views of Claremont Oval at the centre of the project.
“LandCorp undertook a lengthy assessment process to ensure the developer of the two sites would deliver the best standard of medium density urban design as well as quality facilities and accommodation for future residents,” Redman said.
“Mirvac’s proposal delivered on the objectives for achieving a high quality architectural design and sustainable living which contribute to the Oval and streetscape activation.”
The plan for the area was decided in Western Australia’s Directions 2031 and Beyond, to assist in rejuvenating underutilised areas in already-established suburbs.
Civil works to service the sites had been expected to conclude in mid-2014. In December 2013, Stage 2 of site works commenced.
In July 2013 Georgiou Living were selected to develop the first apartment complex at Lot 503. They created <a href="https://thepocketclaremont.com.au/%20" target="_blank">‘The Pocket’ Claremont</a>, which commences construction in July and includes one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments from $485,000, and advertises the development by noting that “Claremont's median price increasing at an average annual rate of 8.1 per cent.”
At present, the median unit price in <a href="/news">Claremont is recorded at $660,000</a>, according to RP Data, achieving a median weekly advertised rent of $490.
Claremont Football Club have their ground and facility at the project.
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Mirvac to build Claremont on the Park’s 178 plus apartments

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The number of residential vacancies nationally decreased very marginally in May, according to SQM Research, with vacancies sitting at 2.2% nationally, or 65,075 vacancies.
Canberra, Melbourne and Darwin are the only capital cities recording a decrease in vacancies.
Year on year, vacancies remain up – by 0.2% - with the trend of 2% plus vacancies ongoing, suggesting renters are getting the upper hand, suggested SQM Research’s managing director Louis Christopher.
<img src="/images/2014/06/18/vacansies%20june%2018.png" alt="">
Source: SQM Research.
Rents have remained flat across the cities, with the <a href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/graph_median_rent_weeks.php?region=nsw%3A%3ASydney&amp;type=c&amp;t=1" target="_blank">Asking Rents Index</a> recording a flat $528 per week for houses and $416 for units.
“Rental growth so far this year has been patchy as a result of the moderate increase in supply of available rental properties and I believe vacancy rates will continue to gradually rise over the course of 2014, with the longer term view that the large increases in building approvals will translate to higher vacancy rates in 2015 and 2016. Overall it is going to be increasingly difficult for landlords to lift the rent for the foreseeable future,” said Christopher.
This leaves the vacancy rates as below.
MELBOURNE - 2.4%
PERTH - 2.3%
CANBERRA - 2.3%
BRISBANE - 2.3%
HOBART - 1.8%
SYDNEY - 1.7%
ADELAIDE - 1.6%
DARWIN - 1.4%
Source: SQM Research
For more insights into Sydney’s vacancy situation, read over page.
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
SYDNEY RENTAL MARKET
In Sydney, vacancy rates were recorded by the Real Estate Institute of New South Wales as rising for the second month in a row. REINSW president Malcolm Gunning notes that this is due to the completion of large scale apartment projects.
They record Sydney’s vacancy rate at 1.9%, with a 0.2% rise for May 2014 in their REINSW Vacancy Rate Survey.
“We are getting back to a more neutral position with high volumes of apartments being completed,” said Gunning. “Fifty per cent of new apartments are purchased by investors and we are now seeing them seeking tenants. The development stock gives tenants a bit more of a fair go and choice.”
BIGGEST VACANCY RATE JUMPS
Wollongong vacancy rates: Increased by 0.9%, to 2.4% Newcastle vacancy rates: Increased by 0.9%, to 3.9% Illawarra vacancy rates: Increased by 0.3%, to 1.9% Hunter region vacancy rates: Increased by 0.4%, to 3.4%
The area with the highest availability, remains the Central West – falling 0.2% to 4.7%, with New England increased 0.1% to 3.5%. LOWEST VACANCY RATES
Orana: Fell 0.8% to 1.5% Albury: Steady, 1.6%
SYDNEY STATISTICS
Inner Sydney vacancy rates: Increased 0.3%, to 1.9% Middle Sydney vacancy rates: Increased 0.5% to 2.5% Outer Sydney vacancy rates: Decreased 0.1%, to 1.6%
With the increase in Sydney’s inner city vacancy rates, Century 21 suggests that the inner west is a renters market, noting that in February a total of 67 listings for rental were recorded by Australian Property Monitors. In May this figure was recorded as double the number with 134 rentals advertised.
“Basically, it is a renters’ market,” said Century 21 Synergy Dulwich Hill director Angelo Lofitis.
 “If you have an investment property in the suburb of Dulwich Hill and have been trying to find a new tenant recently, you’ll probably be finding that it takes a little longer than usual to lease right now,” he said.
“On the other hand, if you are selling, you can still expect the high prices and quick sale that Dulwich Hill is renowned for, as this is yet to change and remains consistently on the rise.”
Loftis, however, says that the reason behind the vacancies is the increase of upgraders in the area who are looking to rent a larger property, rather than owning a smaller home.
“Up-graders’, as a sub-section of buyers in the inner west, have started leaving their rental properties and going on to buy in the area, hence property values are still strong and growing,” he said.
What are your current experiences with trying to get tenants in Sydney?
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No rent hikes any time soon as vacancies stay above 2%: SQM Research

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Spring Cottage, an 1870s Brisbane brick and sandstone cottage held by the same family for four generations, has been listed for sale.
It is one of the oldest houses in Brisbane, but renowned for its gardens given its ranks as one of the 10 oldest in Brisbane.
It is believed that the gardens have remained relatively untouched since they were first laid in the early 1900s.
“The only major work that is know of was in 2010 when the tenant, a qualified horticulturalist, helped to restore the garden’s original design,” said Damon Warat from Ray White Ascot.  
Spring Cottage, located at <a href="https://www.raywhite.com/qld/hamilton/1152364/" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;">40 Crescent Road, Hamilton</a>, is listed on the Brisbane City Council heritage register.
“The neighbouring property sold for $1.025 million in 2012 and we anticipate Spring Cottage will sell north of this figure,” Damon said.
Spring Cottage is for sale via an expressions of interest campaign closing on 22 July.
It is the first time the property has been offered for sale in 140 years.
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