<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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Omega, a Glebe development at 39 Greek Street, is marketing it apartments with the advertised benefit of low strata fees.
Boasting strata levies half those of highrise apartment buildings, due to the lack of pools, gyms and concierges, instead offering a rooftop garden, they have been advertising the 10 under $650,000 to first home buyers.
The building is four-storeys and is designed by Environa Studio, and developed by LIVstyle Group.
In total, Omega has 16 one-bedroom apartments of 50 to 52 square metres internally, plus from 10 to 44 square metres externally. Without parking, they cost $545,000 upwards. For those with parking the price is from $640,000.
There are also a couple of two-bedroom terraces, from 88 to 91 square meters internally and with 31 square metres externally, from $905,000, both with parking. The two three-bedroom apartments span 102 square metres internally, plus nine square metres externally, from $965,000 with parking.
It is the second to its mirror-image, Alpha, which sold before marketing material was produced.
Peter Shield, project director at Ray White Real Estate Erskineville, said that they’re well priced.
“Because this is a boutique-size building without expensive communal facilities, levies will be low so on-going costs will be extremely moderate,” said Shield.
“Somehow people heard about the [Alpha] development well before we were ready to launch. They didn’t need to see glossy images or read purple prose, and were not put off by the fact we only had basic floorplans, a price list and some architectural sketches,” he said.
Property Observer imagines it wasn’t an accident that buyers heard about the development, particularly as they note that a friend of the developer was provided a preview and bought an apartment, however concedes to Shield’s point that “Opportunities in Glebe are rare”.
Omega is set for late-2015 completion, with forecasted weekly rents of $600 to $650 for one-bedroom units, and $800 to $850 for two-bedroom units.
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Boutique Glebe apartment complex with low strata fees coming to market

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Brookfield Multiplex has recently reached a contractual agreement with Singapore-based Ho Bee Land to create a $120 million, 41-storey highrise residential offering to be constructed over the next two years.
This is the first residential highrise to be constructed in the past two years, and will be on the former Red Rooster site – on the corner of Surfers Paradise Boulevard and Main Beach Parade.
Project marketing agent for the development, Deborah Provost, said that this is a new era for the area.
“This project signals a new era of high-rise development on the Gold Coast so we are delighted to have one of Australasia’s leading construction companies take the reins,” said Provost.
While it’s currently unnamed, it will include 223 units, a rooftop garden, gym and retail space, with 500 jobs to be generated during construction.
Regional managing director for Queensland at Brookfield Multiplex, Rod McDonald, said that it’s an effort to meet the demand being seen on the Gold Coast.
“Queensland’s residential market is gaining pace and it’s fantastic to be back on the Gold Coast and delivering this project which will see cranes returned to the Surfers Paradise skyline for the first time in two years,” McDonald said.
“Ho Bee Land’s unique building will revitalise the Gold Coast’s residential property market by providing new, high quality apartments that meet the highest standards of sustainability and design.”
The project architect will be DBI Design.
Early works commenced in late-2013, and it appears construction will be completed in late-2015.
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New era of highrise development signaled for Gold Coast

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There are just the handful of Easter weekend metropolitan auctions across Melbourne this weekend.
Most of the auction activity is on the coastline, with a few special offerings topped by one in Point Lonsdale.
It's the auction of the landmark Point Lonsdale cottage, Samarai (pictured above), one of the most charming beachfront reserve property’s along the Victorian Coast.
Imagine all the sea changers who love the 1998 ABC series who will be wanting to snap it up.
The Ramsay family's Edwardian home is set on 1,100 square metres, last sold in the mid-1980s when bought from the Wortley's for around $240,000. 
It's been offered <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/149-point-lonsdale-road-point-lonsdale/Property-Details-buy-residential-6827429" target="_blank">through Damian Cayzer at Kerleys Coastal Real Estate</a> who could easily expect $3.5 million plus.
Other Victorian coastline offerings include 60 Frimmell Way, Portsea marketed as an affordable charming cottage style offering through Little Residential.
But not that much on offer in the typical Easter auction hotspot of the Mornington Peninsula.
There is an Easter Saturday offering through RT Edgar of <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/12-greenwood-avenue-sorrento/Property-Details-buy-residential-6895905" target="_blank">the Lake House, at 12 Greenwood Avenue, Sorrento</a> (pictured below), a large Rosenthal, Munckton and Shields-designed home on 1300 square metres.
<img src="/images/2014/04/17/sorrento%20april%2017%20one.jpg" alt="">
Then on Easter Sunday, Liz Jensen at Kay &amp; Burton has <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/4-webster-street-sorrento/Property-Details-buy-residential-6590945" target="_blank">Saltaire</a>, a contemporary five bedroom beach house (pictured below).
<img src="/images/2014/04/17/sorrento%20april%2017%20two.jpg" alt="">
A Ron Dennehy-built Torquay offering comes with $850,000 plus hopes.
Paynesville is the busiest locality with John H Castran having some eight listings. They are mortgagee auctions, under instructions from Gippsland Secured Investments Ltd, receivers and managers appointed. Lot 6 Driftwood Close Paynesville is 346 square metres and includes a boat house. 
Not just on the coast but Dinner Plains in the mountains has an auction. <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/3-5-burrinjuck-lane-dinner-plain/Property-Details-buy-residential-6849967" target="_blank">It too is a mortgagee auction of a three level three bedroom two bathroom townhouse</a> (pictured below).
<img src="/images/2014/04/17/dinner%20plain%20april%2017.jpg" alt="">
The limited Melbourne metropolitan offerings include: 
Harcourts 10 Davington Court, Wantirna
Ray White Greensborough 57 Margaret Street, Research 
Ray White 1/20 Shankland Bvd, Meadow Heights
Wilson Partners 12:00 3/59Stanley Street, Wallan.
Neil Tan, research assistant at Australian Property Monitors says there are around 40 auction offerings across Sydney, plus Property Observer is aware of numerous coastal offerings in NSW including Terrigal and Yamba.
There are three auctions scheduled for Yamba including 40 Yamba Street Yamba, billed as a building site totalling 499 square metres with a R3- Medium Density Residential zoning.
The current two bedroom residence, while basic, is quite liveable.
"We’re thinking around the $500’s," the marketing by Yamba Iluka agent Warren Tucker suggested.
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Samarai, Point Lonsdale tops limited coastal Easter auctions

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More than 100 of the 120 apartments offered in the second stage release at Sydney’s tallest residential development sold this weekend following the Saturday morning launch.
As of Sunday, 101 studio, one, two and three bedroom apartments had sold, with the Financial Review reporting that nearly 90 had sold by 10am on Saturday. Prices for studios began at $595,000, with a three bedroom apartment selling for $4.38 million.
Developed by Chinese state-owned developer Greenland Holding Group Co, the $680 million development will be 66 storeys and 235 metres tall upon completion, making it <a href="/expert-insights/buying/opportunity-to-buy-the-highest-penthouse-in-sydney">Sydney’s tallest residential tower</a>.
<a href="/expert-insights/buying/greenland-centre-launches-second-sales-stage">Greenland Centre’s entire first stage release has sold out</a>. Greenland Holding Group has reportedly reserved 40 to 50 units to market in Singapore and Hong Kong later this month.
Penthouses in the complex, which will offer buyers the highest view in Sydney, have not yet been released. 
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jrichardson-uRX5hFdKfN

Greenland Centre sells almost entire second release in two days

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A reconstructed harbourside apartment on the tip of Sydney’s Elizabeth Bay peninsula has been listed with expectations over $1.8 million.
A three bedroom home in a former life, the <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-nsw-elizabeth+bay-116670879" target="_blank">Elizabeth Bay Road apartment</a> has been renovated for the first time in two decades. Interiors were designed by Greg Natale, the man behind fashion designer Leona Edminston’s headquarters and a number of Sydney venues including the now-closed Nevermind, with its mouth shaped urinals.
The renovated apartment at Elizabeth Bay’s Oceana building is a somewhat more restrained affair, with a muted grey and purple colour palette and luxury finishings, including basaltina stone floors in the living and dining areas and polished stucco walls.
It is being marketed by Ian Campbell and Penny Timothy of Ray White Elizabeth Bay. Of the new fitout, Campbell said Natale and the owner completely reconstructed the apartment’s interior.
“This is a home of absolute sophistication - the detail in the interior design is without peer,” said Campbell.
“Before the current owner purchased the property in 2011, the home had not been renovated in more than two decades.
“The owner saw huge renovation potential and invested substantially to create streamlined, luxurious living.
“The owner worked with Mr Natale and gutted the entire apartment - they removed walls, floors and ceilings and basically rebuilt from scratch.
“This is a home that doesn’t need a thing added, every element is custom made - it is perfectly complete,” he said.
While the home is marketed as a two bedroom apartment, it is currently configured as a one bedroom, with the second room acting as a walk in robe and study. The residence’s main bedroom includes a separate balcony with water views.
86/108 Elizabeth Bay Road goes to auction on May 15 at 6:30pm.
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Renovated Sydney waterfront apartment hits market

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The Liberal identity Nick Di Girolamo, the former director of the ICAC-investigated Australian Water Holdings, has sold his four bedroom Sydney home.
The Henley riverfront fetched $4.8 million on its February delayed settlement terms having been <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-henley-115148907" target="_blank">listed for its marketing campaign late last year</a>.
The pricey property came up for sale shortly before the late 2013 article by Fairfax Media reporters Kate McClymont and Linton Besser that the Independent Commission Against Corruption had begun formal inquiries into the affairs of Australian Water Holdings, with the corruption watchdog seizing files concerning the company.
The house had been briefly for sale in 2011 having been bought in early 2010 for $4.5 million in the name of Nick's wife, Jodie Di Girolamo. The eventual $300,000 price gain barely covered the initial $255,000 stamp duty costs.
The waterfront property had been listed with $4.75 million plus price indications through Matthew Ward at Ward Partners.
It is an small, yet expensive riverfront, suburb with few sales, making the median price difficult to regularly determine, but in 2011 it was at $3.3 million, according to RP Data, with the highest sale on the street being $6.65 million in 2010.
Property Observer gleans the couple had previously lived nearby at Sherwin Street, Henley, in <a href="https://www.homehound.com.au/15+sherwin+street+henley+hunters+hill+nsw+2110/" target="_blank">a 1925 house that Jodie sold for $2.25 million in early 2010</a> (pictured below). It had cost $1.2 million in 2002.
<img src="/images/2014/04/16/henley-april-16-two-pic.jpg" alt="">
The couple both owned the prior home in Russell Lea, bought for $260,000 in 1994 and sold in 2002 at $750,000.
The recently sold 28 William Street riverfront property was marketed as showcasing a desirable north easterly aspect with magnificent water views. It facilities included boat shed, slipway, cradle, winch, jetty and pen. The 256 square metre two level house sits on a 986 square metre block with level lawns gently descending to the waters' edge. "It has enormous scope to renovate or rebuild your dream home," the Ward Partners' marketing suggested of the 1950s home which was renovated in 2000. 
The former head of Australian Water Holdings Nick Di Girolamo was just an “old fashioned shyster, fraudster”, counsel assisting the Independent Commission suggested at the recent hearing.
Born in 1970, Di Girolamo went to St Patrick's school Strathfield with the Obeid family boys and is best friends with Eddie Obeid Jr, who is godfather to one of his children.
The former managing partner of Sydney law firm Colin Biggers &amp; Paisley joined Australian Water, then Rouse Hill Infrastructure Consortium, in 2005.
He allegedly sold the Obeid family a 30 percent stake in Australian Water Holdings for $3 million in November 2010.
He stands accused of "milking" Sydney Water for millions of dollars in expenses under a contract to supply water infrastructure, including gifts and donations to the NSW Liberal Party.
The <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.thehomepage.com.au/property/residential/freemans-reach-2756/643587" target="_blank">Di Girolamo couple also co-owned a colonial sandstone Freemans Reach weekender</a> (pictured below) with former business associate John Rippon and his wife, Sheenah, and another co-owner, Claudio Tropea, each taking a third stake in the holding on its 2006 purchase. The eight hectare property, known as Wellow Farm, cost $1.25 million in 2006 and was sold after disputation between the couples, at $1.25 million last year.
Possibly one of its selling points was its irrigation licence for 27 megs.
<img src="/images/2014/04/16/freemans-reach-april-16.jpg" alt="">
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Nick Di Girolamo, the Australian Water Holdings former director, sells Sydney riverfront for $4.8 million 

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Looking to revitalise North Sydney, an area normally known for its businesses rather than its residential opportunities, Skye by Crown’s construction has officially commenced at 211-223 Pacific Highway.
Crown Group, who are developing Skye by Crown, are looking to make the development one of the most iconic apartment buildings in North Sydney, with design by renowned architect Koichi Takada.
The 20-storey building, with 242 apartments, will also include a top-floor gym, an infinity edge rooftop pool and views over the area.
To date, more than $200 million of apartments have been sold, including two penthouses – sold for $3.38 million and $3.465 million.
Earlier this month, CEO of Crown Group, Iwan Sunito, and North Sydney Mayor, Jilly Gibson, attended the turning of the first sod, marking the beginning of construction. This was after the first stage of demolishing a pre-existing office building, symbolic of the change they want to see.
<img src="/images/2014/04/16/2014_04_11_Skye_Ground_Breaking.jpg" alt="">
“Skye by Crown has been an exceptional project from the start – from the first stages of development and design selection through to one of the most successful sales launches in Crown Group’s history,” said Sunito.
They are now selling the last 13 apartments in the building, that will be completed within two years.
Gibson said that there is an effort to renew the area.
“Developments such as this cement North Sydney’s status as a growing commercial and residential district,” said Gibson.
“Skye by Crown will be home to hundreds of new North Sydney residents and will provide new eateries and retail outlets when completed in 2016,” she said.
The $236 million development launched in June. The final apartments selling include a one-bedroom apartment with study for $990,000. Two-bedrooms from $1.09 million are also available, as well as a final penthouse – a three-bedroom offering at $2.755 million.
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Skye by Crown construction commences

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Last week there was an ordinary 53% auction success rate when 34 homes were offered in Sydney's eastern suburbs.
But last night it worsened to a 42% clearance rate on the official list of 35 offerings.
Most of the sales - some nine in total - were locked in prior, so on the night there were just six sales.
The six declared sales on the night sales ranged from $450,000 in Ruschutters Bay to $2.06 million in Clovelly.
There were undisclosed negotiations after a $5.65 million Rose Bay property was passed in by LJ Hooker agent Alain Waitsman which resulted in an undisclosed higher priced sale.
There were some bright spots with five registered parties on a Randwick offering through Goodyer Real Estate.
The initial shock 53% auction clearance rate came when 34 eastern suburbs listings were put under the hammer on 7 April through Cooley Auctions.
"It had to happen," one agent told Property Observer after the clearance rate dipped to just 42%.
"Up to $2 million is still okay," another agent advised.
Last night had six properties passed in with prices between $900,000 in Redfern and $5.3 million in Woollahra. Significantly five of them were on a vendor bid, suggesting acute buyer hesitation or even absence.
There was also 14 official withdrawals or postponements.
That's 40% of the offerings that were pulled from auction given the unsustainable pre-Easter swelling in supply. But another factor was Jewish passover.
The 42% clearance rate was well below the 75% plus that has become the norm in the latter stages of the 11 auction weekends so far this year.
As indicated over the past few weeks, Property Observer has sensed the slight turn in market sentiment with the results suggesting some vendors have got too greedy, some buyers are getting understandably cautious at not overpaying, and some estate agents have got a bit slack at doing their job of knocking heads together.
<table>
<colgroup>
<col width="180">
<col width="75">
<col width="55">
<col width="190">
<col width="90">
</colgroup>
<thead><tr>
<th>
Property
</th>
<th>
Result
</th>
<th>
Price
</th>
<th>
Agency
</th>
</tr></thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>7 Brisbane Street Bondi Junction</td>
<td>Passed In (VB)</td>
<td>$1,100,000</td>
<td><a href="https://www.raywhitebj.com.au/" target="_blank">Ray White Bondi Junction/Coogee</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3/240 Bondi Road Bondi</td>
<td>Sold Prior</td>
<td>$812,000</td>
<td><a href="https://www.rhbondibeach.com.au/" target="_blank">Raine &amp; Horne Bondi Beach</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>38 Pauling Street Coogee</td>
<td>Withdrawn</td>
<td>-</td>
<td><a href="https://www.belleproperty.com/bondijunction" target="_blank">Belle Property Bondi Junction</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2/1 Caledonian Road Rose Bay</td>
<td>Passed In (VB)</td>
<td>$1,280,000</td>
<td><a href="https://www.cooleyauctions.com.au/www.ppdre.com.au" target="_blank">Phillips Pantzer Donnelley</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2/208 Gardeners Road Kingsford</td>
<td>Sold Prior</td>
<td>undisclosed</td>
<td><a href="https://www.mint360property.com.au/" target="_blank">Mint360property</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>71 wentworth Street Vaucluse</td>
<td>Withdrawn</td>
<td>-</td>
<td><a href="https://www.alisoncoopes.com/" target="_blank">Agency by Alison Coopes</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>G619/780 Bourke Street Redfern</td>
<td>Passed In (VB)</td>
<td>$900,000</td>
<td><a href="https://www.mortonandmorton.com.au/" target="_blank">Morton &amp; Morton</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>296 Clovelly Road Clovelly</td>
<td>Sold Prior</td>
<td>$1,987,500</td>
<td><a href="https://www.belleproperty.com/bondijunction" target="_blank">Belle Property Bondi Junction</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>10/2A Darling Point Road Darling Point</td>
<td>Postponed</td>
<td>-</td>
<td><a href="https://www.ljlevi.com.au/" target="_blank">LJ Levi Real Estate</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>106/12 Macleay Street Potts Point</td>
<td>Passed In (VB)</td>
<td>$1,350,000</td>
<td><a href="https://www.belleproperty.com/pottspoint" target="_blank">Belle Property Potts Point</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6/118 Curlewis Street Bondi Beach</td>
<td>Sold Prior</td>
<td>$590,000</td>
<td><a href="https://www.belleproperty.com/bondijunction" target="_blank">Belle Property Bondi Junction</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>693A Old South Head Road Vaucluse</td>
<td>Postponed</td>
<td>-</td>
<td><a href="https://www.ljlevi.com.au/" target="_blank">LJ Levi Real Estate</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3/45 Birriga Road Bellevue Hill</td>
<td>Passed In</td>
<td>$950,000</td>
<td><a href="https://www.ljlevi.com.au/" target="_blank">LJ Levi Real Estate</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6/257-261 Carrington Road Coogee</td>
<td>Sold Prior</td>
<td>undisclosed</td>
<td><a href="https://www.mybhr.com/" target="_blank">BHR Estate Agents</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1 Judge Street Randwick</td>
<td>Sold</td>
<td>$1,375,000</td>
<td><a href="https://www.goodyer.com.au/" target="_blank">Goodyer Real Estate</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>19 Olphert Avenue Vaucluse</td>
<td>Postponed</td>
<td>-</td>
<td><a href="https://www.rhdb.com.au/" target="_blank">Raine &amp; Horne Double Bay</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4/42 Bayswater Road Rushcutters Bay</td>
<td>Sold</td>
<td>$445,000</td>
<td><a href="https://www.enr.com.au/" target="_blank">Eastern Network Realty</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2/51 Wolseley Road Point Piper</td>
<td>Withdrawn</td>
<td>-</td>
<td><a href="https://www.ballardproperty.com.au/" target="_blank">Ballard Property</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>50 Shackel Avenue Clovelly</td>
<td>Sold</td>
<td>$2,060,000</td>
<td><a href="https://www.ljlevi.com.au/" target="_blank">LJ Levi Real Estate</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>19 Broughton Street Paddington</td>
<td>Postponed</td>
<td>-</td>
<td><a href="https://www.1stcity.com.au/" target="_blank">1st City Hasemer + Caldwell-Eyles</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>301/1 Hollywood Avenue Bondi Junction</td>
<td>Sold</td>
<td>$1,150,000</td>
<td><a href="https://www.belleproperty.com/pottspoint" target="_blank">Belle Property Potts Point</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>8/28 Oxford Street Woollahra</td>
<td>Withdrawn</td>
<td>-</td>
<td><a href="https://www.ljlevi.com.au/" target="_blank">LJ Levi Real Estate</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>42 Hopetoun Street Paddington</td>
<td>Withdrawn</td>
<td>-</td>
<td><a href="https://www.bradfieldcleary.com.au/" target="_blank">BradfieldCleary</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>12/130-138 Avoca Street Randwick</td>
<td>Postponed</td>
<td>-</td>
<td><a href="https://www.mint360property.com.au/" target="_blank">Mint360property</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>303/281 Elizabeth Street Sydney</td>
<td>Sold Prior</td>
<td>$975,000</td>
<td><a href="https://www.wilsonproperty.com.au/" target="_blank">Wilson Property Agents</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1/1 Ocean Street Woollahra</td>
<td>Withdrawn</td>
<td>-</td>
<td><a href="https://www.cooleyauctions.com.au/www.ppdre.com.au" target="_blank">Phillips Pantzer Donnelley</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2 Forbes Street Paddington</td>
<td>Sold</td>
<td>$1,250,000</td>
<td><a href="https://www.charlesstuart.com.au/" target="_blank">Charles &amp; Stuart</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>13/366 Edgecliff Road Woollahra</td>
<td>Sold Prior</td>
<td>$1,225,500</td>
<td><a href="https://www.ljhooker.com.au/doublebay" target="_blank">LJ Hooker Double Bay</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>271A Old South Head Road Bondi Beach</td>
<td>Withdrawn</td>
<td>-</td>
<td><a href="https://www.ljlevi.com.au/" target="_blank">LJ Levi Real Estate</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2 Wallaroy Crescent Woollahra</td>
<td>Passed In (VB)</td>
<td>$5,300,000</td>
<td><a href="https://www.alisoncoopes.com/" target="_blank">Agency by Alison Coopes</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>8/20 Abbott Street Coogee</td>
<td>Sold Prior</td>
<td>$750,000</td>
<td><a href="https://www.mybhr.com/" target="_blank">BHR Estate Agents</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3/56 Wilberforce Avenue Rose Bay</td>
<td>Withdrawn</td>
<td>-</td>
<td><a href="https://www.ljlevi.com.au/" target="_blank">LJ Levi Real Estate</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1 Cecil Road Rose Bay</td>
<td>Sold</td>
<td>undisclosed</td>
<td><a href="https://www.ljhooker.com.au/doublebay" target="_blank">LJ Hooker Double Bay</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3/6 Pine Street Randwick</td>
<td>Sold Prior</td>
<td>undisclosed</td>
<td><a href="https://www.mybhr.com/" target="_blank">BHR Estate Agents</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7/33 Kimberley Street Vaucluse</td>
<td>Withdrawn</td>
<td>-</td>
<td><a href="https://www.ljlevi.com.au/" target="_blank">LJ Levi Real Estate</a></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
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Sydney's eastern suburb auction overload sees 42% clearance rate after 14 withdrawals

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In today’s market what makes the great foundations for an exceptional residential development? 
While there are an array of possible ways to benchmark and answer this question that may well satisfy planners, developers, marketers and financiers, we are also faced with another question, "what makes a great project for the buyers".
Buyers face lots of choices and while they can easily access mountains of research and commentary, I still think that when we take a project to market we still need to answer this question. Easily. Even more so when we are talking about selling off the plan, where a focus on the elements of a project with great foundations, is a sound way to approach the market.  
Market conditions are always changing; today’s projects that sell-out in just hours, days or a few weeks, might not do so under tomorrow’s market circumstances. 
There are some key aspects to regard as our key project fundamentals, many of which are interconnected. 
Always from both the developers and buyers viewpoint are: Infill locations, the use of existing infrastructure, environmental credentials and sustainability, access to open space, design, equally the overall and apartment design, communications, the appeal of mixed use developments, the liveability of the development and finally sales appeal.
While I am not suggesting this is an exhaustive list, I do think that by looking at each element, we will then start to understand how they help form the foundation of great projects and why buyers frequently use such key attributes to inform their purchase.
Infill locations attract both positive and negative feedback, but these are locations are essential to helping plan any major city and they are the mainstay of most medium density development and (once the dust settles) are generally seen as a more desirable way to plan and deliver new projects. They not only create new homes but they usually are very good at connecting new neighbourhoods and so they are very appealing to buyers.
The use of existing infrastructure is naturally linked with the appetite for infill locations and local infrastructure will include rail links, schools, shops and parks, in fact any easy to access facilities. Buyers are quick to identify the importance of these facilities and it has to be acknowledged that in some locations new developments add user pressure, which is an area that both government and developers always need to plan and be mindful of. 
However the value gained from the use of existing infrastructure and where necessary improving facilities is easily illustrated because the costs can be massive. Some recent figures I saw from the USA make the point. There a modest extension to street curbing was quoted at US$78,000, a new set of traffic lights US$280,000 while a mile of new subway would cost US$1 billion, so the use of existing facilities via infill locations looks like an obvious choice.
Environmental credentials is a major topic, in some cases it’s a marketing must have and is made up of many varied parts from the familiar, like the use of solar and water recycling to the less common such as on-site energy generation. We also need to include the provision of new green space and access to open space, including passive open space like golf courses. However again here we can have a clash between the needs of already established communities with the desires of new residents, but for the developer this can be a great foundation element.
Design is another constantly evolving foundation element; it’s very topical and one of the items that is close to the heart of any buyer. Design covers a wide strategy from the masterplan of a development and its impact on the local environment into areas like apartment size, clever features, cross ventilation, variety and innovation, attention to detail; down to such everyday items like the number and size of parking bays and storage.
Communications is both a simple and complex area. Every buyer today expects to open the door of their new apartment, walk in, switch on their PC, laptop, tablet or whatever device they have and be instantly connect to the world.
Mixed use developments on the development star ratings offer some challenges, usually at the planning level, but they also offer great opportunity and generally they help create a more connected local community because they bring new variety that can be used by everyone, not just the new residents. In creating a dynamic mixed-use development variety is important because it can be exciting and a wonderful ongoing benefit to the entire community.
Liveability really brings together all of the aspects already outlined. There is no single pointer, it’s a combination of cultural, economic and environmental issues, and it also includes diversity and population demographics as well as civic and planning values. But it might also be seen as a sense of place, in reality a place where people want to live.
Sales appeal is the final point but from a marketing perspective, it’s the litmus test. Any project needs to be a commercial winner and the aim is to inform the marketing message, but to also help buyers in their own minds answer what really makes a great development.
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pchittenden-eLqUUC8TWW

The foundations of a great residential project

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Auction volumes were high across the capital cities, with Sydney breaking all time record.
There were a total of 3,491 capital city auctions held across Australia last week, up from 2,692 over the previous week. With auction volumes at the highest levels seen so far this year, clearance rates increased from 66.2% over the previous week to 68.9% last week with Sydney driving the strong clearance rate.
As mentioned a couple of weeks ago, we had expected auction volumes to peak before the Easter break as the next couple of weeks are likely to be pretty quiet on the auction front.
At the same time last year, the final auction clearance rate was recorded at 61.8% with 1,410 capital city properties having been taken to auction.
<a href="https://blog.rpdata.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/20140413-Capital-city.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-3108" src="https://blog.rpdata.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/20140413-Capital-city.jpg" alt="20140413 Capital city" width="990" height="722"></a>
There were 1,471 auctions held across Sydney last week, which means auction volumes have risen by nearly 30% when compared to the previous week when there were 1,137 Sydney auctions.
Despite this jump in auction volumes, the total number of auctions in Sydney was slightly less than in Melbourne over the week; however it was a record high for the city. Sydney’s preliminary clearance rate was resilient last week, despite the increased volumes, recorded at a sturdy 78.5%, compared to 73.2% over the previous week and just 67.2% at the same time last year, when there were 529 auctions held across the city.
At this stage, we expect just 392 Sydney auctions to be held over the coming week, with most of these occurring prior to Friday.
<a href="https://blog.rpdata.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/20140413-Sydney.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-3110" src="https://blog.rpdata.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/20140413-Sydney.jpg" alt="20140413 Sydney" width="1004" height="659"></a>
A preliminary clearance rate of 64.2% was recorded last week in Melbourne from 1,143 auction results compared to 63.6% recorded the previous week and 66.5% at the same time last year.
This weekend brings to a close the busiest first quarter for auctions in the city’s history. Compared to this time last year there have been 58% more auctions held. For the next two weeks the market will see significantly reduced volumes with Easter and Anzac Day causing many vendors to have already had their auctions or wait.
<a href="https://blog.rpdata.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/20140413-Melbourne.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-3109" src="https://blog.rpdata.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/20140413-Melbourne.jpg" alt="20140413 Melbourne" width="1002" height="656"></a>
In terms of an increase in auction volumes over the week, Brisbane was the stand out last week, with auction volumes almost doubling. There were 236 residential properties taken to auction in Brisbane last week and the preliminary auction clearance rate was recorded at 45.7%, compared to a final auction clearance rate of 52.8% over the previous week when there were 123 Brisbane auctions. At the same time last year, just fewer than 100 auctions were held across the city and the clearance rate for the week was recorded at a 36.4%.
Last week was the second week so far this year where there have been more than 230 Brisbane auctions over the week. To put that into perspective, the average number of weekly auctions held over 2013 was 137, while so far this year, there has been an average of just under 150 auctions per week.
<a href="https://blog.rpdata.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/20140413-Brisbane.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-3107" src="https://blog.rpdata.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/20140413-Brisbane.jpg" alt="20140413 Brisbane" width="994" height="649"></a>
Adelaide’s preliminary clearance rate for last week was recorded at a strong 73.8%, up from 62.1% over the previous week. Much like most of the other concentrated auction markets, Adelaide saw volumes increase over the week from 98 to 144. At the same time last year, Adelaide’s clearance rate was a lower 47.4% across the 63 properties that were taken to auction.
<a href="https://blog.rpdata.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/20140413-Adelaide.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-3106" src="https://blog.rpdata.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/20140413-Adelaide.jpg" alt="20140413 Adelaide" width="990" height="649"></a>
Despite the overall increase in auction volumes over the week, there were three cities (Canberra, Darwin and Hobart) where the number of properties taken to auction last week was actually lower than the preceding week.
Taking a quick look around the cities, Perth’s clearance rate was almost unchanged last week at 33.3% across 55 auctions, Hobart saw a clearance rate of 50.0% with 16 auctions held across the city, Canberra had 50 auctions and a preliminary clearance rate of 65.5% and so far, one Darwin property has been reported as having successfully sold at auction.
RP Data is tracking just 590 auctions over the coming week with many of these auctions (just over 500) scheduled prior to the Easter weekend.
Melbourne auction commentary provided by Robert Larocca, RP Data’s Victorian housing market specialist.
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