The Gold Coast economy has grown by 25 per cent since 2020/21 to surpass $55 billion, but perhaps the more significant story is what sits behind the headline number.

For decades, the Gold Coast has been viewed through the lens of tourism, lifestyle and population growth. The latest State of the City Report suggests that perception is increasingly out of step with reality.

Released by Invest Gold Coast, the report ranks the Gold Coast as Australia's largest non-capital city economy and, perhaps more notably, second nationally behind Sydney for Economic Complexity, a measure that assesses the diversity and sophistication of an economy.

It's a result that places the Gold Coast ahead of Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide, highlighting the extent to which the city's economic base has broadened beyond its traditional industries.

Today, the Gold Coast supports more than 350,000 jobs, is home to over 83,000 businesses and generates $19 billion in annual exports. Manufacturing now accounts for 62 per cent of international export growth, while sectors including health, education, advanced manufacturing, technology and professional services are becoming increasingly important contributors to the local economy.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=372547]

Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate said the report confirmed the city's evolution into one of Australia's most significant economies.

"The Gold Coast economy continues to grow at an incredible pace. This is no surprise to those of us who have watched the evolution up close," Mayor Tate said.

"As one of the most entrepreneurial, investment driven and opportunity focused economies in the country our ambition has been realised and possibilities are endless.

"The Gold Coast has built a reputation as the city that says yes. We say yes to investment, yes to opportunity and yes to people who want to build something.

"It's this mindset helping us drive major growth across health, advanced manufacturing, screen production, marine, technology and the knowledge economy."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149670 project_image_fid=360975]

While population growth has been one of the defining stories of the past decade, the report points to a broader economic transformation taking place.

The city's knowledge economy now contributes $7.9 billion annually and supports around 31,000 jobs, while the health and wellbeing sector contributes $5.2 billion and employs more than 42,000 people. Together, the six priority sectors identified in the report account for almost $24 billion in economic output and more than 145,000 jobs.

One of the strongest examples is the Gold Coast Health and Knowledge Precinct at Southport. The 200-hectare precinct now contains more than $5 billion worth of health, education, research and innovation infrastructure and supports over 16,000 jobs.

The report also highlights the growing role of advanced manufacturing, particularly in aerospace, defence and modular construction.

Gold Coast-based Gilmour Space Technologies recently became the first Australian commercial company to attempt an orbital launch, while companies including Modscape and ModnPods are helping establish the Yatala-Stapylton corridor as one of Australia's fastest-growing advanced manufacturing hubs.

The city's entrepreneurial culture is also translating into business growth.

Since 2019/20, the number of businesses operating on the Gold Coast has increased by 22 per cent, while firms employing more than 200 people have grown by 80 per cent. The report suggests the next challenge is converting more local start-ups and medium-sized businesses into nationally significant companies.

Development activity remains another key indicator of confidence.

There are currently more than $23 billion worth of major projects underway across the Gold Coast, supported by a record 75 active cranes, a figure that now exceeds Brisbane and represents a 150 per cent increase since 2016.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112024 project_image_fid=343235]

Importantly, the report notes the next phase of investment will need to extend beyond residential development.

While 93 per cent of crane activity is currently tied to housing, Invest Gold Coast argues future investment will increasingly need to focus on cultural, civic, infrastructure and industry-enabling projects that strengthen the city's long-term economic resilience.

Invest Gold Coast Chair Will Hodgman said the city was now benefiting from years of economic diversification.

"What is happening on the Gold Coast is the result of the city's economic base broadening, fuelled by industries with long-term, high-growth potential," Mr Hodgman said.

"This is no longer a secondary Australian economy, the Gold Coast is becoming a globally connected city with deeper capability across health, knowledge and creative industries, advanced manufacturing, technology and exports."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365786]

Looking ahead, the Gold Coast's population is projected to exceed one million residents by 2046.

For a city that was once largely defined by tourism and lifestyle, the latest figures suggest the Gold Coast is becoming something more significant, one of Australia's most diverse and economically sophisticated urban economies, and increasingly one that national and international investors can no longer afford to overlook.

Joel Robinson

75 cranes, $23 billion pipeline and a $55 billion economy: Inside the Gold Coast economic boom

Ron Bakir's Homecorp has sold more than 75 per cent of the apartments in its wellness-driven Florence Residences in Surfers Paradise following its first weekend release.

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/florence-residences-24-monte-carlo-avenue-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">26-storey project on Monte Carlo Avenue</a>, which commenced construction earlier this year, has seen a flurry of buyers secure their slice of the Gold Coast's latest wellbeing-focused offering in one of the nation's most competitive property markets.

Since the pandemic, the Gold Coast's population has grown by more than 11 per cent, a rate approximately four times faster than Sydney's, driven largely by lifestyle changes and interstate migration. While buyer activity has moderated in some markets nationally, demand for newly built dwellings on the Gold Coast continues to gain momentum as purchasers increasingly prioritise lifestyle, amenity, wellbeing, liveability and long-term investment potential.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150414 project_image_fid=372743]

Homecorp CEO Ron Bakir says buyers today are looking for more than just a home.

"What we are seeing is a shift in how people define value in property," Bakir says.

"What attracts residents to new developments is a desire for more than just a residence. They are looking for a place that complements their lifestyle, supports their wellbeing and reflects the way they want to live into the future.

"Lifestyle, longevity, proactive health, wellbeing, connection and a sense of community are increasingly shaping purchasing decisions, particularly on the Gold Coast, where these factors continue to be a major drawcard."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150414 project_image_fid=372744]

Bakir says Homecorp is responding to this shift through an approach that places greater emphasis on design, amenity and experience working together to create places that feel considered, connected and enduring in value.

Inspired by Eastern European design, Florence Residences will comprise 120 apartments alongside a private residents-only wellness club featuring a resort-style rooftop pool, hot and cold plunge pools, a spa retreat, contemporary gymnasium, and a spacious yoga and Pilates studio.

The development will also feature a residents-only lounge with private dining facilities and a rooftop bar, premium outdoor entertaining areas, a hotel-style lobby lounge, generous bike parking, and pet-friendly amenities including a heated dog wash.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150414 project_image_fid=372742]

A limited number of apartments remain available, with an exclusive collection of four-bedroom sub-penthouses set to be released in the coming months.

Florence is one of the latest additions to Homecorp's expanding multi-billion-dollar property portfolio, which also includes plans for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/homecorp-lodges-plans-for-260-million-moroccan-bathhouse-inspired-tower-in-budds-beach">$260 million development in Budds Beach</a> tailored to the growing wellness market.

A development application has been lodged for a 27-storey, 156-residence tower at 8–10 Acacia Avenue and 25–27 Oak Avenue, featuring a residents-only Moroccan spa-inspired sanctuary.

Apartments at Florence Residences are priced from $1,249,000, with construction expected to be completed by late 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150414]

Buyers rush to Homecorp's Florence Residences as Gold Coast wellness trend gains momentum

The NSW Government has expanded its $1 billion Pre-sale Finance Guarantee program, broadening access for affordable housing providers and smaller residential developments as it seeks to accelerate housing delivery across the state.

The Minns Government says the program has already helped bring forward more than 600 homes across Sydney and regional NSW since launching in September 2025, with similar models now adopted in South Australia and Western Australia.

The latest changes, announced by Treasurer Daniel Mookhey and Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully, are designed to improve access to finance for projects that have planning approval but are struggling to secure funding.

Among the key changes is an expansion of support for community housing providers. The program will now support up to 100 per cent affordable housing projects valued at up to $30 million when delivered by not-for-profit providers, while support for larger affordable housing developments will increase for projects worth up to $80 million.

The government says the changes will help accelerate the delivery of housing for low-income workers, older people, people living with disability, and those at risk of homelessness, while reducing reliance on direct grants or subsidised loans to bridge funding gaps.

The eligibility criteria for smaller residential developments have also been broadened. The previous $5 million minimum project value threshold has been removed and replaced with a requirement that projects deliver at least four homes.

Support has also increased for projects delivering fewer than 20 homes, with the guarantee now able to cover up to 75 per cent of dwellings in a development, capped at $30 million per project.

The changes are expected to particularly benefit smaller-scale and regional developments, which often face greater challenges meeting pre-sale requirements imposed by lenders.

Treasurer Daniel Mookhey said the scheme demonstrates how government can use its balance sheet to stimulate housing supply without relying solely on taxpayer-funded grants.

"The Pre-sale Finance Guarantee shows how this Government is using its balance sheet to reduce risk and unlock private investment, enabling new homes to move from design to construction faster," Mookhey said.

"This landmark reform allows us to deliver homes for working families at a lower cost to taxpayers, while also maintaining strong financial discipline."

Planning Minister Paul Scully said the program had already proven effective in bringing stalled projects to market.

"The Pre-sale Finance Guarantee has already proven it can unlock stalled projects and accelerate housing delivery by giving lenders the confidence they need to back good developments," Scully said.

"These changes will allow more affordable housing and smaller developments to access support so more homes can be built faster where communities need them most."

Housing Minister Rose Jackson said the expansion would help community housing providers overcome financing barriers that often delay projects.

"We know community housing providers are ready to build more homes, too often they're held back by barriers to finance," Jackson said.

"Expanding the Pre-sale Finance Guarantee helps remove those barriers so more affordable homes can get off the ground sooner."

The announcement was welcomed by the Property Council of Australia, which has long advocated for measures aimed at improving project feasibility and access to finance.

Property Council NSW Executive Director Katie Stevenson described the expansion as a practical intervention that addresses one of the most immediate constraints on housing delivery.

"This is exactly the kind of practical intervention we need right now, focused on getting projects out of the ground, not just approved," Stevenson said.

"It builds on a model the Property Council has worked closely with government to develop following calls for such a scheme ahead of last year's NSW Budget, so it's great to see it being expanded."

Stevenson said the reforms would help unlock projects that are ready to proceed but have been delayed by financing challenges. However, she noted that broader feasibility issues remain a significant barrier to increasing housing supply.

"The biggest challenge in NSW housing today is delivery. Too many projects have planning approval but are simply not financially viable to proceed under current settings," she said.

Speaking at the Property Council's NSW Housing Summit, Housing Minister Rose Jackson acknowledged that feasibility and financing pressures continue to constrain housing delivery, while reaffirming the government's commitment to work with industry on solutions.

Stevenson said the government's recognition of those challenges was encouraging ahead of next week's state budget.

"It's positive to see the government clearly recognising that feasibility pressures are now a binding constraint on supply," she said.

"With the Budget just days away, the focus must be on backing delivery, making sure projects stack up, finance can flow, and more homes can move from approval to construction."

The expanded Pre-sale Finance Guarantee forms part of the NSW Government's broader housing agenda, which also includes planning reforms, the NSW Housing Pattern Book, and a series of rezonings intended to increase housing capacity across the state.

NSW expands Pre-sale Finance Guarantee to unlock more affordable and regional housing

Design-led developer-builder Lowe Living has unveiled its latest residential development, Jardin House, marking its first foray into Melbourne's blue-chip City of Boroondara.

Located a short walk from Camberwell Junction, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/jardin-house-by-lowe-living-camberwell-335-camberwell-road-camberwell-vic-3124">Jardin House</a> has been designed to appeal to affluent local downsizers and established families seeking a low-maintenance alternative to the large homes that have long defined Camberwell and surrounding suburbs.

The project will comprise a collection of two and three-bedroom apartments ranging from 92 sqm to 280 sqm, alongside a limited number of penthouse residences featuring rooftop terraces spanning more than 100 sqm, with optional private pools.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146717 project_image_fid=372212]

Lowe Living Co-Founder and Managing Director Tim Lowe said Camberwell represented a natural next step for the developer as it expands into some of Melbourne's most tightly held residential markets.

"Jardin House is an important project for our team as it marks the next evolution of our portfolio into different well-established blue-chip pockets of Melbourne," Lowe said.

"Camberwell, with its incredible walkability, family-led neighbourhood feel and superb access to education and transport, makes it a natural choice for us."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146717 project_image_fid=372227]

Designed by Tristan Wong Architects, with interiors by Hecker Guthrie and landscaping by Acre, the development takes inspiration from the Art Deco architecture that remains a defining feature of many of Camberwell's established streets.

A curved facade, arched openings, textured brickwork and sculpted forms reference the suburb's architectural heritage, while extensive landscaping softens the building's presence and creates a strong connection to the surrounding tree-lined streetscape.

The project will be set behind a secure gated entrance, with residents arriving through landscaped gardens designed to create a transition between the public realm and private residences.

Inside, the residences feature natural stone and timber finishes, full-height glazing, Miele appliances and generous open-plan living areas designed for long-term owner occupation.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146717 project_image_fid=372225]

While the apartments themselves have been designed to attract discerning owner-occupiers, it is the amenity offering that sets Jardin House apart from many other boutique projects currently launching across Melbourne.

The centrepiece is a 350 sqm private bathhouse curated in partnership with Aurora Spa &amp; Bathhouse founder Lyndall Mitchell.

The wellness precinct includes mineral pools, hydrotherapy experiences, a Himalayan salt room, sauna, steam room, cold plunge pools and dedicated relaxation spaces, creating what Lowe Living describes as a private wellness retreat exclusively for residents.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146717 project_image_fid=372222]

The collaboration follows Lowe Living's recent partnership with Aurora at Maison Savoy in Brighton, although Jardin House is the first project to incorporate both indoor and outdoor wellness experiences.

Emma Lowe, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Lowe Living, said wellness was becoming an increasingly important consideration for apartment buyers.

"Collaborating with Lyndall Mitchell from Aurora Spa &amp; Bathhouse for a second time is an intentional nod to creating residences that are more than just homes, but a way to enrich the lives of our residents through wellness and longevity," Lowe said.

The amenity offering is complemented by a Technogym fitness studio, residents' lounge, private dining spaces and concierge services.

The launch comes as developers increasingly target Melbourne's established eastern suburbs, where rising land values, ageing housing stock and growing downsizer demand are creating opportunities for boutique apartment projects.

Lowe said the company expects significant generational wealth transfer across suburbs such as Camberwell in coming years, creating further demand for luxury apartment living.

"Camberwell is a blue-chip suburb where homes regularly transact for multiple millions of dollars," he said.

"The generational change of wealth in these locations expected in the coming years is significant, so we see an opportunity to create exclusive residences that appeal to older families and downsizers in order to meet this demand."

Apartments at Jardin house start from $1,195,000. The project forms part of Lowe Living's near-$1 billion portfolio of new developments across Melbourne.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=146717]

Lowe Living launches Jardin House in Camberwell

As <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/north-sydney-nsw-2060">North Sydney</a> continues its transition from a commercial centre into a more layered residential and lifestyle precinct, a new generation of apartment developments is reshaping expectations around scale, amenity, and long-term liveability.

Improved transport connections through the Victoria Cross Metro, continued investment in dining and public spaces, and a constrained supply of new luxury apartments have sharpened demand for homes that combine proximity to the CBD with the privacy and outlook traditionally associated with harbourside houses.

At 177 Walker Street, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/aland">ALAND</a>’s new apartment development <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-walden-north-sydney-177-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">The Walden</a> enters the market with a distinctly residential approach to high-rise living. The 30-level tower will deliver 161 residences, ranging from one-bedroom apartments through to sub-penthouses and a full-floor penthouse, all oriented to capture uninterrupted views across Sydney Harbour, the Opera House, and out toward the Pacific Ocean.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=6395]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>, the project takes advantage of the site’s natural topography and elevated position above the harbour. Rather than relying on density alone, the architecture focuses on outlook, orientation, and spatial flow, with every apartment occupying a corner position to maximise natural light and cross ventilation.

Rothelowman says the site itself shaped much of the architectural response.

“The site has a long history in terms of its inevitable transformation and when we came in, we took inspiration from the idea of reestablishing a sense of the site’s natural terrain and fall. Our scheme aims to integrate with the terrain and the landscape, using the undulating site to slowly reveal glimpses and views of the harbour. The rotation of the tower off grid means every apartment has a view and is naturally cross ventilated. The building's colour palette is quintessentially Sydney, with bronze and sandstone and a luminescent green colour in the glass, making it very earthy and grounded in its location.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=6399]

Inside the residences, the emphasis moves toward larger-format living typically associated with standalone homes. Kitchens sit at the centre of the apartments, connecting directly to open-plan dining and living areas before extending outward into expansive winter gardens and balconies. Calacatta marble, bespoke joinery, integrated appliances, and custom metal detailing are used throughout, while three distinct interior palettes, Terrace, Opera, and Harbour, allow buyers to personalise the spaces without compromising the architectural consistency of the project.

The larger residences place particular attention on separation between entertaining and private zones. In many apartments, master suites occupy the outer corners of the floorplates, allowing bedrooms to benefit from floor-to-ceiling glazing and harbour outlooks independent of the living spaces. Dressing rooms and ensuites continue the material palette through fluted detailing, freestanding baths, and layered stone finishes.

Rothelowman says the design intent centred on creating homes that feel enduring rather than transient.

“Our philosophy is all about the way people live in these spaces, and we wanted to create homes that reflect the quality of life in this unique Sydney location. The apartments showcase expansive living spaces that are generous, sophisticated, and bold, with the ability to connect with views throughout each apartment.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=353235]

A separate four-storey amenity building known as The Pavilion expands the residential offering beyond the apartments themselves. Positioned alongside the tower, the building consolidates wellness, recreation, and social spaces into a dedicated resident retreat. Facilities include a 20-metre rooftop pool and sundeck, sauna, spa, ice bath, wellness studio, gymnasium, concierge service, wine cellar, residents’ lounge, private dining spaces, and dedicated co-working areas with meeting rooms and boardroom facilities.

The amenity mix reflects the buyer profile emerging in North Sydney, where owner-occupiers and downsizers are increasingly prioritising convenience, apartment scale, and long-term usability over purely investment-driven decisions.

The Walden also represents a significant milestone for ALAND, marking the company’s first major move into Sydney’s inner-city luxury apartment market after more than two decades delivering large-scale residential communities across Greater Sydney. Founder Andrew Hrsto says the Walker Street site stood apart because of both its positioning and its rarity.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=6390]

“As a company, we had been searching for a site in one of Sydney’s blue-chip locations, spanning the Eastern Suburbs, the Sydney CBD and the North Shore, and when we had the opportunity to purchase this site, we immediately recognised that it could be something iconic.”

At launch, The Walden recorded more than $103 million in sales, with buyers drawn to the project’s harbour positioning, apartment scale, and proximity to the Metro, which now connects North Sydney to Barangaroo in three minutes and Martin Place in five.

ALAND has commenced construction, and is expecting a completion date in 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134323]

The Walden pairs house-scale living with North Sydney connectivity

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

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

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

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

Every First Home Owner Grant for new property by state

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

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

Staff Writer

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

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

alisonwarters@gmail.com

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

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

Ellen Walker

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

Are mortgage holders set to get a reprieve from the RBA in 2026?

Big Four bank NAB believes so. They are now expecting the next move from the RBA to be a cut, rather than a hike, which they had pencilled in for August. They are unsure of the timing of the cut however, they note in their latest&nbsp;NAB Economics RBA Watch.

NAB Chief Economist, Dr Sally Auld, said recent data suggests the economy has lost momentum and the outlook for rates has shifted, noting that the broader economic backdrop has changed since earlier in the year.

“The next move in the cash rate is likely to be down, but the timing is uncertain," Dr Auld said.

"In February, growth was above trend, the economy was operating above capacity and there was uncertainty over the restrictiveness of rates. None of these conditions exist today,” she outlined.

Dr Auld said recent data pointed to softer momentum across the economy while acknowledging that at the same time, uncertainty remains a key feature of the outlook.

“Both Q1 GDP data and the NAB business survey suggest momentum in the economy has slowed, meaning that growth has likely peaked for the cycle. That said, we are cognisant there is still considerable uncertainty around the outlook, both with respect to activity and inflation.”

Dr Auld said inflation risks and labour market outcomes would be important to watch.

“On the prices side, we are still forecasting above target core inflation through to mid-2027. Margins will compress and weaker labour market outcomes are a risk.”

She said tighter financial conditions are expected to weigh on housing and activity.

“Tighter financial conditions will be reflected in a slowing in house price growth and housing credit growth. In summary, we have greater conviction that the next move in rates is down, but less conviction on the timing.”

Mortgage relief? NAB forecasts RBA rate cut, not hike, after softer economic conditions

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A weekend of high auction clearance rates bodes well for the three weeks leading to Easter, Australian Property Monitors senior economist Andrew Wilson says.
Auction clearance rates in Sydney were at 81.5 %, <a href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/finance/investment/36045-sydney-property-accelerates-and-melbourne-keeps-moving-despite-grand-prix" target="_blank">up from 77.9 % last week</a>, with 682 listings. The median price for houses was $1,025,550 while the median price for apartments was $729,000.
This result was well up on the average prices for the same weekend last year, with Sydney houses at $930,000 and apartments $644,000.
“We are seeing real energy in the prestige market in Sydney,” Wilson told SmartCompany.
“Twenty properties in Sydney sold for over $2 million.”
He says the inner suburbs of Sydney, the lower North Shore and Northern Beaches showed solid results.
“Next weekend in Sydney we have over 800 auctions listed… as people take advantage of the market before Easter and the winter weather,” he says.
In Melbourne the clearance rate for auctions was 73.1 %, up from 69.8 % last week, with 971 properties listed.
The median auction sale price for houses was $760,000, while the median auction sale price for apartments was $528,500.
Wilson says around 1,200 properties are listed for auction in the Melbourne metro market next weekend. He says the market in Melbourne is “solid” not “strong” but doing well despite the high February unemployment rate for Melbourne of 7.3%.
In Adelaide, the clearance rate was 62.1 % with 45 houses listed, and in Brisbane it was 63.6 % with 77 houses listed.
The most expensive property sold at auction in Sydney was a five-bedroom house in Mosman (pictured above), for $5.7 million. In Melbourne it was a five-bedroom home in Canterbury for $3,125,000.
The most affordable property in Sydney was a two-bedroom townhouse in Lakemba for $416,000. In Melbourne it was a one-bedroom unit in Maribyrnong for $230,000.
This article first appeared on <a href="https://www.SmartCompany.com.au" target="_blank">SmartCompany</a>.
Australian Property Monitors (APM) has released a list of results from 367 auctions in Sydney for the weekend of March 22.
<a href="https://www.homepriceguide.com.au/saturday_auction_results/Sydney.pdf" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Click here</a> for the auction results, and click on each street address to see the property's marketing.
<a href="https://www.homepriceguide.com.au/saturday_auction_results/Melbourne.pdf" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Click here</a> for the list of results from 689 auctions in Melbourne.
<a href="https://www.homepriceguide.com.au/saturday_auction_results/Brisbane.pdf" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Click here</a> for the list of auction results in Brisbane.
<a href="https://www.homepriceguide.com.au/saturday_auction_results/Adelaide.pdf" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Click here</a> for the list of auction results in Adelaide.
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moliver-7qYWqnHmyR

Property set to heat up prior to Easter with 20 homes over $2 million sold in Sydney

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With soft first home buyer numbers recorded, and Finder.com.au suggesting this will continue over the year, the comparison site is referring to the struggle between investors and first time buyers as a ‘property war’.
There was a slight increase in the proportion of first home buyers of all owner-occupied loans financed in January 2014, from December’s 12.7% to January’s 13.2%, as recorded by the Australian Bureau of Statistics however this is still five times less than investment loans financed.
With investment loan commitments in January among the highest levels recorded, over $8.4 billion, this was starkly in contrast to first home buyers’ $1.75 billion.
Michelle Hutchison, money expert at Finder.com.au, said that investors’ strength is likely to continue their hold over the first timers this year.
“Investors are holding some first home buyers hostage from the property market as they take advantage of low interest rates and high yields. If you’re a first home buyer and not prepared, you won’t get out alive – with a property to own,” said Hutchison.
“Investors are stronger in the property market than first home buyers because they can use equity from their existing home and take advantage of low rates to snap up properties faster. While first home buyers are slowed down by the cost of saving for a deposit and upfront fees with no existing equity,” she said.
“If this trend continues, we can expect to see property investors grow even stronger, and likely to hit almost $10 billion in home loans financed per month by December.”
Whether any of the investors were first time buyers, purchasing for an investment and not a home, has not been identified.
Despite the metaphor, Hutchison encouraged first home buyers not to be intimidated by the investor presence in the market, noting that a stable job, a saved deposit and an understanding of home loans should leave these buyers comfortable.
Similarly, she noted that a huge deposit isn’t hugely necessary, with many offering loans of up to 3% deposit, that setting a budget is crucial and that some government incentives are on offer.
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jduke-EHk3XBmHkn

Investor and first home buyer struggle dubbed a "property war"

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Over the week, auction volumes remained relatively steady, with 2,431 capital city properties taken to auction, increasing only slightly from 2,293 the previous week.
Meanwhile, the weighted auction clearance rate across the combined capital cities improved slightly over the week, up from 70.8% the week prior to 71.2% last week. Unlike the previous week, the performance across Melbourne and Sydney was more aligned last week, with both cities recording a strong clearance rate. At the same time last year, auction volumes were at elevated levels as it was the week prior to the Easter long weekend.
Traditionally, the number of auctions that take place over this week each year increases by around 25% when compared to the week prior, last year however, volumes increased by over 40% leading up to the Easter weekend. Despite the high volume of auctions held the week before Easter last year (2,649), the auction clearance rate was recorded at 64.1%, which is much lower than we are currently seeing.
<a href="https://blog.rpdata.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/20140323-Capital-city.jpg" rel="wp-prettyPhoto[g3024]"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-3027" src="https://blog.rpdata.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/20140323-Capital-city.jpg" alt="20140323 Capital city" width="992" height="733"></a>
There were 963 residential Sydney properties taken to auction over the week and the preliminary auction clearance rate was recorded at 77.9%, compared to a 79.8% clearance rate across 868 auctions over the previous week.
When we look at the Sydney auction market at the same time last year, auction volumes were lower (912) and a lower proportion of homes were selling successfully under auction conditions (68.6%). These results highlight just how strong current conditions are across the city. In line with the strong auction performance, Sydney home values over the past year have increased by 14.9%, reinstating the strong performance of the Sydney housing market.
<a href="https://blog.rpdata.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/20140323-Sydney.jpg" rel="wp-prettyPhoto[g3024]"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-3029" src="https://blog.rpdata.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/20140323-Sydney.jpg" alt="20140323 Sydney" width="995" height="660"></a>
Across Melbourne, a preliminary clearance rate of 71.7% was recorded last week from 895 auction results compared to 67.0% recorded both last weekend and this time last year.
At the same time last year, there were slightly more auctions held across Melbourne (1,294) compared to the 1,149 held this week, and a marginally lower clearance rate. Currently, Melbourne home values are 12.2% higher than they were at the same time last year and with one week to go this month, early indications show Melbourne home values are on track to record solid growth through March despite the increasing levels of homes on offer for sale.
<a href="https://blog.rpdata.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/20140323-Melbourne.jpg" rel="wp-prettyPhoto[g3024]"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-3028" src="https://blog.rpdata.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/20140323-Melbourne.jpg" alt="20140323 Melbourne" width="1005" height="661"></a>
Because Brisbane is a much smaller auction market than both Melbourne and Sydney, auction clearance rates across the city have the tendency to vary substantially from week to week. Last week, Brisbane’s preliminary auction clearance rate was recorded at 37.3%, down from 54.5% the week prior. Last week, 127 residential properties were taken to auction across the city, compared to 138 over the previous week.
Brisbane auction volumes are set to jump substantially over the coming week, with 214 properties across Brisbane set to go under the hammer, so it will be interesting to see if auction clearance rates improve over the coming week.
<a href="https://blog.rpdata.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/20140323-Brisbanejpg.jpg" rel="wp-prettyPhoto[g3024]"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-3026" src="https://blog.rpdata.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/20140323-Brisbanejpg.jpg" alt="20140323 Brisbanejpg" width="994" height="657"></a>
Compared to the previous week, Adelaide’s clearance rate was recorded at a much lower level, with the preliminary clearance rate for the city coming in at 59.3%, compared to a final clearance rate of 70.0% over the preceding week. The number of auctions that took place across the city also dropped over the week, from 95 the week prior to 80 last week.
While this is the lowest clearance rate recorded across the city so far this year, at the same time last year, the auction clearance rate (53.3%) was lower, while there were more auctions held across the capital (110).
<a href="https://blog.rpdata.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/20140323-Adelaide.jpg" rel="wp-prettyPhoto[g3024]"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-3025" src="https://blog.rpdata.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/20140323-Adelaide.jpg" alt="20140323 Adelaide" width="1002" height="659"></a>
Auction markets across the remaining capital cities (Perth, Hobart, Canberra and Darwin) tend to be very small with only a small number of auctions held each week. Last week we saw 30 auctions across Perth with a clearance rate of 57.1%, 25 auctions across Hobart with a clearance rate of 54.5% and 57 auctions in Canberra with a clearance rate of 53.3%. There were only three auctions recorded in Darwin last week, with no successful results.
Currently, RP Data is tracking 2,845 capital city properties that are scheduled to be taken to auction over the coming week, making this the busiest week for auctions so far this year.
Melbourne auction commentary provided by Robert Larocca, RP Data’s Victorian housing market specialist
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Strong clearance rates recorded in Sydney and Melbourne: RP Data's national weekend auction wrap

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AMP Capital’s Ocean Keys Shopping Centre in northern Perth’s Clarkson has seen the first stage open for the two year development and will also include 10 new residential apartments adjoining the centre.
The $105 million project is part of a $2.8 billion development pipeline for AMP Capital including redevelopments in northern Sydney’s Macquarie Centre, for $440 million, Pacific Fair on the Gold Coast, at $670 million and proposed developments at Perth’s Garden City and Karrinyup.
{qtube vid:=vugwgsnk9EM}
The redevelopment is a response to strong growth in the northern Perth suburbs, with Ocean Keys in what is called one of the faster growing regions in Australia. The trade area’s population is expected to grow at an annual 5.3% from 2016 to 2021.
This release is ahead of the official schedule for April, and has brought 30 stores, a dining area and a playground to fruition, which add to the recently opened undercover car park, announced AMP Capital Shopping Centres’ managing director Bryan Hynes.
“The redevelopment of Ocean Keys will provide our investors in the AMP Capital Shopping Centre Fund with enhanced risk adjusted returns by creating a first class shopping and leisure destinations,” said Hynes.
The redevelopment created 200 construction jobs and completion will offer 400 retail positions.
By the end of this year the redevelopment will be complete, with Target, Kmart, Coles and Woolworths in position with more than 120 shops and services in total.
<img src="/images/2014/03/24/ocean-key-march-24-plan.gif" alt="">_
The centre will be 37,000 square metres upon completion, and will include a new casual dining precinct and the 10 new residential apartments. There has also been the suggestion that a number of office spaces will be included.
The residential apartments were required by council, and proposals to council for the dwellings see them placed at the corner of Ocean Keys Boulevard and Key Largo Drive overlooking Key Largo Drive. Six of the dwellings planned for are one-bedroom units, with the remaining four being two-bedroom units. A residential lobby was also proposed for lift access and a flight of stairs.
<a href="https://www.oceankeys.net.au" target="_blank">Ocean Keys</a> is already used as an amenity selling point for a number of online residential property listings.
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First stage of $105 million Ocean Keys shopping centre development in Perth begins

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<div class="story-intro">
The INXS guitarist Tim Farriss secured $1.73 million for his Milsons Point apartment at weekend auction.
It was bought seven years ago off the plan for $1.65 million in 2007.
</div>
The apartment at <a href="https://www.belleproperty.com/8P1813" target="_blank">1003/118 Alfred St</a> was bought as an investment with intentions to have it as a city bolt-hole away from their Southern Highlands farm where they breed cattle.
It had been listed through Belle Property Neutral Bay agent, Mark Jackson with $1.6 million plus hopes.
Over the years its asking price rent has ranged between the initial $1,000 a week sought in late 2009 and the $1,250 weekly asking rental sought briefly earlier this year.
The 10th-floor apartment in the North Residences was briefly up for sale in 2010 with hopes of more than $1.7 million. It has 146 square metres internal space plus 20 square metres balcony, parking for one car and storage space.
It is in a converted office building which completed in 2009 with three bedrooms, two bathrooms, open plan interior and a gourmet kitchen.
Tim Farriss and his wife, Beth apparently envisage a move to the Northern Beaches.
Farris has been part of INXS since the beginning, playing with his brothers, Andrew and Jon Farris, and high school friend Kirk Pengilly, as featured in the Channel 7 mini-series in which he collaborated.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

INXS guitarist Tim Farriss secured $1.7 million for Milsons Point apartment

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The Reserve Bank of Australia sold its redundant Kirribilli mansion, Eversley, for a bullish $5.2 million at weekend auction.
Its annual price appreciation during the RBA's 28 year ownership reflected a healthy 7.8% annual growth.
It was among the 670 properties that went to weekend auction with the initial Australian Property Monitors tally at another weekend clearance rate above 80% - of 81.5%.
 It represented the eighth weekend running that APM has recorded above 80% on initial results, although the prior weekend was revised down to 77.9%, which is about its true auction success tally.
With unconfirmed $4.5 million plus price hopes, the opening bid at the Ray White Lower North Shore auction was $4.1 million.
There were just the two reported bidders, who pushed the price of the duplex at 10 Carrabella Street up.
It last sold in April 1986 for $630,000 under Bob Johnston's governorship just before the Sydney market took off in its late 1980s record boom.
No reason for its sale has been given but Property Observer recently noted in recent years <a href="/news/nsw/no-more-landlord-niggles-as-rba-lists-excess-4-million-kirribilli-residential-property">the property has been beset with pesky landlord issues</a> taking up much of the central bank's time.
Issues including leaking taps, pathway descaling, problematic cistern, dangerous tree limb decay, low pressure hot and cold shower water, hazmat requirements, leaking roof tiles, balustrade compliance, damp kitchen ceiling, decaying front garden fencing, the back fence replacement, bathroom grouting issues, possums in the fiddlewood tree, beeping fire alarm on the first floor, and the failing light above the sandstone stairs that meant the steps were dangerous. 
At one point rental abatement was given.
The weekend's highest sale was $5.7 million in Mosman.
APM put Melbourne's initial weekend clearance rate at 73% an its revised prior weekend at 69.8%, indicating that slight softening in the Melbourne market. Its initial result last weekend was 73.9%.
Melbourne's highest weekend sale was $3,125,000 in Canterbury. 
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RBA sells Kirribilli mansion securing impressive 7.8% annual price growth

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Australian cricketer David Warner secured $1.88 million when his Little Bay home sold at weekend auction.
Initial reports suggested the coastal suburban Sydney house would fetch about $1.9 million.
Two buyers competed for the renovated four-bedroom Jenner Street home.
The 27-year-old opening batsman had purchased the property for $1.75 million in 2012.
The home, with Queenslander-style facade, had a contemporary rear extension with an open-plan living space of its 738 square metre block.
David Warner apparently will be trading up in Sydney's east, but the Sunday Telegraph Phil Rothfield's has recently written the test opener has denied he was looking to buy a property in the $4 million range in Bondi.
Warner and his fiance, Candice Falzon announced they are expecting a child earlier this month.
Warner also has an investment property in Maroubra, which cost $562,000 in late 2009. It is in a 1950s Maroubra Road block of four units.
Its rental performance appears patchy as available at a $620 a week rental in late 2011, by March 2012 it was still available at $560 a week.
It became available again in March 2013 at a $600 a week asking price, seemingly on a six month lease, as it was back briefly available for rent at $600 a week in late 2013.
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Cricketer David Warner sells in Little Bay as family home becomes necessary

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In the latest ABS results it was reported that the total value of housing finance commitments for investment purposes was recorded at $10.3 billion in January 2014.
While the value of investment finance commitments had fallen by -3.3% over the month, it is clear that there has been a very strong ramp-up in investment expenditure on housing over the past 18-24 months with a significant increase in lending to investors. Although this is the case, owner occupier purchases have also ramped up sharply over the same period.
<blockquote>
The proportion of activity by investors in the housing market currently is sitting at its highest levels since late 2003.
</blockquote>
While owner occupier purchases accounted for the greatest proportion of housing finance commitments, there was a distinct rise in investment lending where in January 2014, investment lending accounted for 38.5% of all lending; a drop from 39.6% in December 2013. The proportion of activity by investors in the housing market currently is sitting at its highest levels since late 2003. It’s important to remember that late 2003 was the peak in housing market activity and at that time and shortly afterwards, value growth went flat for a number of years.
<img src="/images/2014/03/24/kusher-march-24-one.gif" alt="">
Why is investment activity so significant in the current market? 
The combined capital city housing market recorded a low point in May 2012. Since that time, values have increased by 13.2%.
Although we’ve seen a broad rise in values, the magnitude of these has varied significantly on a city-by-city basis.
<img src="/images/2014/03/24/kusher-march-24-two.gif" alt="">
Since May 2012, home values in Sydney increased by 18.6%, in Melbourne by 14.4%, in Perth by 12.4% and in Darwin by 8.8%. On the other hand, Adelaide home values are up by 1.0%, Hobart by 2.6%, Canberra by 4.4% higher and Brisbane by 4.9%. Based on this it is clear that value growth has only been particularly strong within a handful of capital cities, albeit the two largest cities, Sydney and Melbourne, have been the primary drivers of capital gains over the current cycle.
Over the same 22 month period since May 2012, rental growth has significantly underperformed home value growth. Across the combined capital cities, rental rates have increased by a total of 4.9% which was significantly less than half the growth in home values. Darwin (11.7%), Perth (8.4%) and Sydney (5.6%) have recorded the strongest increases in rents however, only Darwin has recorded stronger levels of total rental growth than value growth. Every other city has recorded less than 5% growth in rental rates. Across the remaining cities the rental change has been recorded at: Melbourne (3.4%), Brisbane (4.3%), Adelaide (2.5%), and Hobart (0.6%) while Canberra rents are -3.1% lower.
<img src="/images/2014/03/24/kusher-march-24-three.gif" alt="">
With home value growth generally outperforming rental growth, it seems that most of the investment activity in the market is focussed on capital gains rather than rental return.
With investors clearly focussed on capital growth in the market, the potential for failure is when growth slows or falls - what then will happen to the investor segment?
<img src="/images/2014/03/24/kusher-march-24-four.gif" alt="">
There’ll be some investors who won’t be overly concerned as they may have negatively gearing their investment by design. However, some will be left with a low yielding asset coupled with potentially low medium term capital gain prospects as the market moves out of the growth phase.
Potentially a portion of these recent investors will look to exit the residential property asset class if and when value growth slows or falls and move into better performing and more liquid asset classes.
Note: Housing finance data is released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) each month and provides valuable insight into residential lending. A key trend recently has been the heightened level of activity by investors. It is important to remember that the data is based on finance commitments by Australian Authorised Deposit-taking Institutions (ADIs). Finance sourced from overseas is not included in the data.
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ckusher-ujnxiKuFQs

Investors continue to focus on property

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GUEST OBSERVATION
Cairns is right on the change of times and fortunes - it is still really unclear exactly what will happen over the next few years. 
I personally believe it will change, but the answer I don't have is just how quickly or to what extent.  The big thing is Aquis and if this goes ahead this will be a game changer for Cairns.  It will not just be restricted to the area immediately surrounding Aquis - Cairns just isn't like that.  
We are still a regional city and Cairns, to us locals, extends down to Gordonvale, up to Palm Cove.  It isn't like the area of Smithfield is booming with business, but Bungalow near the City isn't.  It is too small for that - the whole town either is working or isn't.  
If Aquis is built then the immediate surrounding area will boom, but it won't be like a house there is $800,000 and a similar house in the rest of the city will be $400,000.
<blockquote>
Cairns may not be for everyone - you need to work out if Cairns is the right place for you to invest in.
</blockquote>
The State government seems to be behind the Aquis project, now all we have to do it is get it approved and work to start on it. This is a big step in the right direction. The Foreign Review Investment Board has also given the green light for <a href="https://www.cairnspost.com.au/business/foreign-investment-review-board-gives-fungs-green-light-to-yorkeys-knob-land-buy-for-aquis-mega-resort-and-casino/story-fnjpusdv-1226844517155" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;">Aquis to purchase the land at Yorkeys Knob</a>.
Without being to dramatic, if Aquis does get the go ahead and work starts this year, we will see a huge movement in the market and very quickly. This could really be the very last chance to get into the property market in Cairns before it takes off.  
To highlight this, I looked at duplex pairs for sale.  Just over two years ago I was lucky to find anything that was listed for over $400,000.  Now there is just one duplex pair that is under $400,000.  The rest have sold - this shows you that the market is on the move. 
The <a href="https://www.cairnspost.com.au/business/full-steam-ahead-for-bunnings-warehouse-in-portsmith-cairns/story-fnjpusdv-1226840282363" target="_blank">building numbers for new houses has increased</a>, but let’s not get too excited.  The numbers are fairly small.  The number of high density developments is minimal, which on one hand is not good for the building industry, it will be a good thing for those of us with investment properties. With no building of any significance for almost seven years now, the vacancy rate is low. As things pick up we will be able to push rents up - it is a simple case of supply and demand. 
Cairns may not be for everyone - you need to work out if Cairns is the right place for you to invest in.
LINDA TUCK is director of <a href="https://www.plrealty.com.au/index" target="_blank">Cairns Property Ladder Realty</a>, an independent real estate agency in specialising in property management, investment and sales expertise in the tropical Cairns region.  
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Is the Cairns market on the cusp of take-off?

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A new Brunswick East development has revitalised the former heritage Tip Top bakery site, purchased by Little Projects in 2009, into boutique homes and shops.
<a href="https://livebrunswickeast.com.au/" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;">The $113 project for the site</a>, which is located between Edward and Weston Streets, had been unused for close to 10 years prior to purchase.
Little Projects’ managing director Michael Fox looked to bring an urban style to the area.
“We have always seen Brunswick East as an up-and-coming suburb and we have now unlocked this potential through this project with settlements set to commence from April this year. This is an exciting step forward for Melbourne’s North,” Fox said.
Using the theme of the original 1.2 hectare bakery site, he has called the six smaller buildings Stables, Seeds, Silo, Rye, Grain and Malt.
The Rothelowman designed buildings each have a unique aspect, some with entertainer’s balconies and city views. Similarly, they also have separate street addresses for discreet access. Urbis designed the internal laneways.
The Learning Sanctuary is housed on the site, a 92-place childcare centre within the Seeds building. It also includes a rooftop outdoor space.
A café and office will also be within the Seeds building, while a commercial space for a retailer or office is at the bottom of the Stables building.
“We’re creating a community, so we consider the flow-on impact on the surrounding streets and wanted to create a precinct that adds value to the neighbourhood and that people want to be part of,” Fox said.
Elements of the former brick façade and Art Deco stables have been retained as part of the site’s heritage.
The apartments remaining in the complex are two-bedroom offerings, with the first of the apartments to settle in April. They come in two floor plans, The Sanctuary and The Entertainer.
Some of the apartments are being offered for rent, with one-bedroom from $300 per week and two-bedroom from $420 per week, with a move-in from May.
For the latest development listings, brought to you by Property Observer and partners, see our <a href="https://showcase.propertyobserver.com.au/" rel="nofollow">INVESTOR SHOWCASE</a>. 
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