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;

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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."

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Joel Robinson

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.

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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.”

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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.”

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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

The ACT will become the first jurisdiction in Australia to abolish stamp duty for all first home buyers, with no income caps and no property price thresholds from 1 July.

The move, announced as part of the ACT Budget, completes a key election commitment from the Barr Government and removes what Chief Minister Andrew Barr described as one of the biggest barriers to entering the housing market. The reform forms part of the ACT's long-running transition away from transaction taxes and towards a broader-based property tax system.

"This budget marks a major milestone in our long-term tax reform program," Barr said, adding that the government had maintained a sustained focus on removing barriers to home ownership. He said stamp duty had long been one of the largest upfront hurdles facing buyers and that from July, "that barrier is gone" for first home buyers in the Territory.

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The changes come alongside a range of measures designed to encourage new housing supply, including support for the delivery of so-called "missing middle" housing such as terraces, townhouses and low-rise multi-unit developments.

The announcement has renewed debate around whether the ACT's approach could provide a blueprint for improving housing affordability nationally.

New research from OurTop10.com.au, conducted by Primara Research, suggests the Territory's decade-long reform agenda has produced outcomes unmatched elsewhere in Australia.

While stamp duty costs have increased by an average 67 per cent nationally over the past decade, the ACT has recorded growth of just 15 per cent, the lowest increase of any jurisdiction.

The Territory has also emerged as one of the strongest performers on housing delivery. Based on population-weighted housing targets, the ACT is sitting less than one per cent behind its target. Victoria is the next closest at seven per cent behind, while the national average sits 25 per cent below target. New South Wales is tracking 39 per cent behind.

The latest reform removes one of the final barriers facing first home buyers in Canberra.

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The average Australian home buyer currently pays $61,714 in stamp duty. In the ACT, that figure is $38,399 despite the Territory having the third-highest median house price in the country.

Until now, the ACT's first home buyer concession scheme only applied to purchases up to $1.02 million, around $51,000 below Canberra's median house price of $1.071 million. In practical terms, many first home buyers were unable to access the median-priced home without losing the concession.

From July, those restrictions disappear.

Every first home buyer in the ACT will pay no stamp duty, regardless of income or purchase price.

Canberra remains one of Australia's most expensive housing markets, with dwelling values increasing 82 per cent over the past decade. However, that growth ranks only 11th among Australia's 15 major housing markets, suggesting affordability pressures have been less severe than in many other parts of the country.

Simon Ma, CEO of OurTop10.com.au, said the latest reforms recognise that many first home buyers have simply outgrown thresholds set years ago.

"Many first home buyers aren't just looking for a way onto the ladder, they want a home their family can actually live in," Ma said.

"In a market where the median house price is over a million dollars, a concession scheme that cuts out at $1.02 million was never going to get them there.

"Removing the ceiling entirely means ACT first home buyers can now pursue the home they actually want, rather than limiting themselves to a price point designed for a very different market."

Whether other states follow remains to be seen. But at a time when most jurisdictions are struggling to improve affordability while also increasing housing supply, the ACT has quietly become the national test case for both.

15% stamp duty growth. Just 1% off the national housing target. Zero stamp duty for FHBs. Is the ACT the blueprint for the great Australian dream?

ACT abolishes stamp duty for first home buyers

A rooftop pool and spa overlooking the Brisbane CBD, private dining spaces, expansive landscaped gardens and a residents' lounge are set to crown <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/callista-on-park-west-end-49-mollison-street-west-end-qld-4101">Callista on Park</a>, the final residential building within Brisbane's West Village precinct.

The rooftop amenity collection has been designed as an extension of the lifestyle already established throughout West Village, providing residents with a series of indoor and outdoor spaces that capitalise on the building's elevated position above West End.

A swimming pool and heated spa form the centrepiece of the rooftop offering, surrounded by landscaped gardens developed through a collaboration between developer Sekisui House and ASPECT Studios. The design incorporates expansive lawn areas surrounded by English garden-inspired planting.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134800 project_image_fid=370648]

Residents will also have access to two barbecue and outdoor dining areas positioned to take advantage of views across Brisbane's skyline, neighbouring Mollison Park, and the surrounding inner-city landscape.

For larger gatherings, the rooftop includes a private dining room centred around a substantial stone island bench, complete with a full kitchen and a 10-seat dining table set beneath four-metre-high ceilings. The space has been designed to overlook both the rooftop gardens and the Brisbane CBD skyline.

A separate residents' lounge provides an additional indoor retreat connected to the broader rooftop amenity offering, creating another space for residents to work, relax or entertain guests.

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The attention to detail extends beyond the rooftop.

Upon arrival, residents will enter through a lobby featuring a bespoke ceiling light installation developed in collaboration between Sekisui House and Alcorn Middleton Architecture. The arrival experience is complemented by private resident mailboxes and carefully considered interior finishes designed to reflect the premium positioning of the building.

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The amenity offering forms part of Callista on Park, the final residential release within the decade-long transformation of the former Peters Ice Cream Factory site into West Village, one of Brisbane's most established mixed-use communities.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a> and being delivered by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/hutchinson-builders">Hutchinson Builders</a>, Callista represents the most premium residential offering within the masterplanned precinct.

Construction is now entering its final stages, with scaffolding beginning to come down and completion expected in the first quarter of 2027.

Prices for the three-bedroom plus MPR apartments start from just over $2.6 million.

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Callista will mark the final opportunity to purchase within West Village, where residents have direct access to more than 35 retail, dining, wellness and medical operators including Harris Farm Markets, Woolworths, Function Well and Goodlife Health Clubs, Metro Arts, and a growing collection of restaurants and cafés.

Located just 800 metres from the Brisbane CBD, the precinct also places residents within walking distance of South Bank, West End's dining scene, riverfront parklands and major public transport connections.

For Sekisui House, which has delivered more than two million homes globally, Callista serves as the concluding piece of the West Village masterplan, bringing together the precinct's heritage character, parkland setting and emphasis on walkability in a final collection of larger-format residences.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134800]

Rooftop pool, private dining and skyline gardens to crown West Village's final apartment release, Callista on Park

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/wahroonga-nsw-2076">Wahroonga</a>’s enduring appeal has long been tied to its balance of bushland, established amenity, and access to some of Sydney’s most respected education and healthcare institutions.

Along Fox Valley Road, that combination is becoming increasingly sought after by buyers looking to remain connected to the Upper North Shore lifestyle while prioritising walkability, wellbeing, and convenience.

Developer Capital Corporation's initial vision of a 62-hectare site on Fox Valley Road was that they could create their own walkable community, bordered by&nbsp;more than 25 hectares of bushland and adjoining Coups Creek.

<img alt="Wahroonga" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b84917a1-0d75-49b9-888c-ddf7ebfd6692" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/NEW2026_Wahroonga_Walkway.gif?VersionId=Gk3_xi5ssYfalmwuQQ5umQakddceC31j" />

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-residences-at-wahroonga-estate-169-fox-valley-road-wahroonga-nsw-2076">The Residences at Wahroonga Estate</a> draws directly on the area’s natural landscape, with walking trails and green corridors linking into sections of Lane Cove National Park. The surrounding network of bushwalks, cycling tracks, and reserves reinforces the suburb’s long-standing reputation as one of Sydney’s most nature-oriented residential pockets, while still maintaining close ties to village retail and transport infrastructure.

The address places residents within minutes of Wahroonga and Turramurra villages, where cafés, local grocers, boutiques, and everyday services support a highly localised lifestyle. Popular nearby venues including The Fox Café and Breeze Valley Café provide easy options for morning coffee or casual dining, while longstanding retailers such as IGA Wahroonga Fresh and Novella Fine Books continue to anchor the area’s village character.

&nbsp;

<img alt="Wahroonga" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c4a950f7-4f05-4370-b360-b106359788e5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/2026_Wahroonga_Entry_Gates.gif?VersionId=7n5kh9ymu.azYEYDemJkPgiIAfSw44oj" />

Healthcare access remains one of the defining locational advantages of the estate. Sydney Adventist Hospital, known locally as The San, sits directly adjacent and is one of the largest and most respected private hospitals in New South Wales. The hospital precinct incorporates specialist medical services, radiology, physiotherapy, and outpatient care, contributing to growing buyer demand from downsizers and owner-occupiers seeking long-term convenience and peace of mind.

Research commissioned by Capital Corporation found that health and wellbeing considerations are increasingly influencing downsizing decisions, particularly among buyers wanting to remain within familiar neighbourhoods while accessing medical infrastructure more easily.

Education has also historically underpinned demand across Wahroonga and the broader Upper North Shore. The estate sits close to several of Sydney’s leading private and independent schools, including Knox Grammar, Abbotsleigh, Barker College, Pymble Ladies’ College, Ravenswood School for Girls, and Loreto Normanhurst. Co-educational options including Wahroonga Adventist School and Sydney Adventist School further strengthen the area’s appeal to established families looking for long-term schooling pathways within a tightly held catchment.

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Transport connectivity supports the suburb’s liveability without compromising its quieter residential character. Wahroonga and Turramurra train stations provide direct rail access into the Sydney CBD, while the nearby Pacific Highway and M1 motorway strengthen links across the North Shore and broader metropolitan area. At the same time, the heavily treed streetscape and low-density character continue to distinguish the precinct from more urbanised parts of Sydney.

The Residences at Wahroonga Estate forms the first stage of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/capital-corporation">Capital Corporation</a>’s broader masterplanned vision for the precinct, delivered alongside the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135247 project_image_fid=364995]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/group-gsa">GroupGSA</a> with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/coco-republic-interior-design">Coco Republic</a>, the development integrates landscaped communal spaces including a pet-friendly Green Spine, resident lounge, BBQ pavilion, and direct bushland access, reinforcing the project’s focus on outdoor connection and community-based living.

Now under construction by Gold Star iCIRT-rated builder <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/dasco-australia">DASCO</a>, The Residences at Wahroonga Estate will deliver a collection of one, two, and three-bedroom apartments priced from $990,000, with completion anticipated in 2027.

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Capital Corporation to cater to Upper North Shore downsizers by creating walkable community at The Residences at Wahroonga Estate

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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I’ve seen many articles over the past few weeks advising people about how to buy in a “hot” market. 
   Amid all the “expert” commentary the only sensible advice I’ve read came from Perth property professional Gavin Hegney, who said: “My first thought is that buyers should not be aiming to buy in a hot market.”   Hegney’s thoughts mirror my own advice to investors on how to buy in a boom market: “Don’t.”   It’s really that simple. The only explanation for investors buying in a sharply rising market is the herd mentality, otherwise known as stupidity.   Here’s how it is for property investors at the moment. Australian has many different property markets. Many of them are rising at the moment. Very few of them are “hot”. Only a few have anything ressembling boom conditions and the jury is still out on whether these areas are genuine boom markets.   Investors have the whole of Australia from which to choose. Only a fool would choose to buy in one of the few markets where competition is extremely high and buyers are paying silly prices to secure properties.   Warren Buffett, arguably the most successful investor ever to have lived on planet Earth, preaches the simple philosophy that you buy when others are selling and sell when others are buying. It’s the opposite of the herd mentality that drives most Australian property buyers.   Buffett also said: “Profit from folly, rather than participate in it.”   The greatest folly current occurring in Australian real estate is Sydney’s auction frenzy. People participating in it are, by Buffet’s definition, fools. They are people with more money than sense. Buy in haste and repent at leisure is the unwitting catchcry of such people.   If you don’t have to buy in these areas but are buying anyway, you’re part of the folly.   Possibly there are home buyers who need to buy now and have little choice but to compete with other frenzied punters.   But investors have no such excuse. They have no pressing need to buy in these locations. The whole of Australia is their market and those with common sense and a healthy research ethic will be looking elsewhere.   There are hundreds of locations around the nation where investors can buy well with good prospects for future growth.   One of real estate’s oldest cliches is that you make your money when you buy, not when you sell. This means you buy at a good price, when the market is down.   You cannot buy well in some of the Sydney markets where people are paying way above the reserve price at auction or making a high offer before auction to secure a property.   This sort of folly has happened before in Sydney and Melbourne. It’s always the same scenario. Auctions get on a roll in the millionaire suburbs, people afraid of missing out pile in and buy at inflated prices and, after five or six months of frenzy, it all fizzles out.   Then prices fall. Often the decline in values is as much as the previous rapid rise.   Don’t be part of the folly. Look elsewhere. There are many hundreds of better options for well-researched investors from Darwin in Adelaide and from Perth to Townsville.

<hr>
Terry Ryder is the founder of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.hotspotting.com.au/" rel="nofollow" style="font-size: 14px;">hotspotting.com.au</a> and you can contact Terry via <a href="https://mailto:%20ryder@hotspotting.com.au" target="_blank">email</a> or on <a href="https://twitter.com/hotspotting" target="_blank" style="font-size: 14px;">Twitter</a>.
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My advice for buying in a "hot" market? Don't: Terry Ryder

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Over the last few months and in particular over the weeks since the federal election there has been a great deal of chatter about a so-called residential property bubble.
This has been fueled by a few factors that have, to my view, been overly magnified. Yes we have seen some good, even record auction results, strong demand for new mainly off-the-plan projects and land releases, and improving house prices led mainly by Sydney and Perth. But these do not alone create a ‘bubble’.
There are much deeper aspects of the market that go well beyond what has been suggested as a possibly reckless rush of buyers on the back of low interest rates and still in some areas a well acknowledged lack of immediate supply. Both of these are ongoing influences but I do not see evidence of recklessness.
What may at first appear surprising is how quickly the market has become so active. Currently, there is strong demand and buyers are very lively, and this has caught some sectors by surprise. I stress ‘surprise’ with no foundation for any sort of alarm, in fact the activity should be welcome.
Only six months ago there were alarm bells ringing about the continued flatness in the housing market and the lag in construction. Now with strong buyer interest there will be an incentive for more building and development at a time when the economy is adjusting from a slowdown of the mining boom.
Location remains key
As always demographics are playing a big part in the market and the appeal of inner city living is currently on an upward trend that has been evident now for at least a decade. The only difference is that it is no longer a trend but an everyday reality that we have yet to satisfy. You only have to look at the pressures on many of Sydney’s inner city schools as they try to accommodate an increase of 20-25% in class enrolments. Although we do need to ask: "didn’t anyone see this coming?"
There has also been a big increase in single person households and this is creating an additional layer of demand, as people are anxious to live near services and facilities. But it is not only the inner city where demand is strong, in Sydney’s south-west and north-west new housing stock is in demand and here the promise of improved infrastructure and a strong lifestyle offering are helping to drive demand.
Interest rates
The current low interest rates may well not last forever, but in the current market I believe that low rates are acting as a comfort factor, making loans more affordable. But I also suggest that as first time buyers remain conservative and investors are still looking for a solid return, again there is no run away mentality among borrowers, who remain cautious. Still the gap between today’s interest rates and what be seen as a high number between 7-8% can well be seen as an opportunity for many buyers, and if rates rise they are capable of managing that.
Along with interest rates, recent falls in the Aussie dollar have helped to fuel an already strong inflow of buyers from Asia and in particular China, and this is a reality of our market that is not going to change. Offshore buyers will always be attracted to Australian property; they are attracted by the lifestyle here that can be measured in simple terms of space, a good natural environment and freedom to move.
By 2014, Indonesia and China are expected to have more millionaires than the USA and even if only a small fraction of these wealthy buyers look to Australia to buy a home or investment then that demand will be long-term, and in many respects is nothing new.
A faster pace backed-up by the fundamentals
I think that we need to keep in mind that some markets have been tough over the past 12 months and the long lead up to the federal election may have depressed activity. Also some properties are being taken to market for a second go as confidence builds, however given the size of our market the sales inventory is still modest.
We still have a long-term shortage of housing, and as developers meet market expectations with quality, and as rents stay high and vacancy rates are low for investors the market is attractive, so they will act. Owner occupiers are attracted by lower rates, but weaker employment may well temper demand, but these same buyers realize that in five years’ time today’s values will not prevail and today’s prices will look attractive as major centres attract more residents.
Developers in particular need to concentrate on the fundamentals, and not take the market for granted, sticking to the best locations and delivering quality, and while this might now all be at a much faster pace, that does not create a bubble; it creates a strong market that will remain attractive for both local and offshore buyers not forgetting our continued population growth.
The improved market activity of the last few months needs to take all of these factors into consideration and not simply see stronger sales as somehow being over-inflated.

<hr>
Peter Chittenden is managing director for residential of <a href="https://www.colliers.com.au/Colliers%20Corporate/Residential.aspx" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Colliers International.</a>
 
 
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pchittenden-eLqUUC8TWW

No bubble, fundamentals mean that market remains attractive for buyers: Peter Chittenden

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Despite the recent gains in dwelling values being fragmented across the states, it’s always interesting to chart the reaction when making the assertion that the rapid run up in values, occurring in areas such as Sydney and to some extent Melbourne, have been stimulated by little more than an investor lead rush to get in quick. Capital gains are visibly overshooting the mark, and cheap money coupled with a honeymoon period of post-election confidence, is forcing buyers to seek out any area of opportunity that can provide a better return on their dollar.  
However, for those who work in the commission driven residential sector and derive their living from Australia’s $600 billion property industry, any negative sentiment indicating potential instability is strictly taboo.  
Indeed, it’s easy times for agencies when the market is booming – investors come knocking buoyed on by recent gains, sales agents don't have to chase buyers in order to achieve the needed competition to exceed their vendor’s reserve, and as we start to witness a period of accelerated growth, the self perpetuating circle of certainty that keeps the ball of optimism rolling, is proof enough for all imagining there can be no end to the festivities.  
Those who work in the industry understand that it’s this type of confidence that underpins investor activity; therefore if prices are dropping opportunity knocks, and if they are rising it’s merely proof that markets always recover and values trend upwards. 
In other words, there’s never a bad time to buy property – to insinuate as such, would result in a personal conflict of interest.  
I received an auto-generated email this week from one commentator suggesting we have become a nation of so-called experts – people with opinions, but very little expertise.  
According to the theory set forth in the email, the criteria for expertise in our property market to enable impartial advice, is simply someone that walks the talk – a "successful property investor" with a large portfolio of dwellings.  
However, for those that entered the property market at the beginning of the lending boom, and benefitted from our golden decades of growth – becoming a successful property investor, wasn’t incredibly hard.  
The rise of dual income households, intermittent buyer grants, tax incentives aimed at investors, stronger wage growth buoyed on by a robust economy, poor planning for population growth (with both the monopoly and restriction of land stagnating effective and affordable supply), a propensity toward high loan to value ratios in the lead up to the GFC and a culture that veers disproportionately toward property investment as a vehicle for wealth creation ensured the baby boomer generations, who hold roughly 50% of Australia’s housing stock, didn’t need much more than a basic foundation of market knowledge to reap the resulting capital gains.  
Having never lived through a real estate crash, boomers matured in a market where the industry driven mantra dictated that nominal values double every seven-10 years or always goes up 7-10% per annum, as the wax and wane of a property cycle progresses.  
Some of the various stimulators that lead to these gains are not to be repeated, and whilst there will always be periods of inflation and deflation in any modern market economy, it’s important to have a good understanding of the dynamics fuelling those gains and the longevity of such, or you risk falling into the trap of thinking the good times will ultimately always outweigh the bad.  
Whilst the real estate profession differs little from any other sales industry, in so much that it has to maintain a positive narrative, it also promotes Australia’s largest domestic asset class with an aggregated value of over $4 trillion pinned to a banking sector, which has the highest exposure to residential mortgages in the world.  
Pumping the line that it’s always a good time to buy, with inflated capital prices simply an indicator of a “healthy economy”, can potentially hold serious consequences – If housing is going to be used as an investment vehicle, the advice being given requires strict regulation.  
As it stands, Sydney’s buying market is almost a 50/50 equal split between investors and upgraders, with first home buyers holding less than a 5 % share.  
Whether it is negative gearing, land banking or borrowing to purchase in a self-managed super fund, all such strategies are solely reliant on capital growth to compensate for the growing gap between price and yield. Therefore demand is overwhelmingly concentrated on a reducing pool of established property and the recent acceleration in prices represent this.  
The so-called fundamentals presented that are intended to calm any negative spirits into believing our economy faces no immediate danger, are startling similar to those projected in other countries immediately prior to the financial crisis.  
Whilst there’s no doubt in Australia we have a shortage of affordable and effective supply, to assume this alone will always generate nominal price gains, or even place a firm floor under current valuations, concludes we can keep playing a game of musical chairs with second hand stock, against a backdrop of rising unemployment, weak wage growth, an aging population and stubbornly high levels of personal debt.  
I’m referring in particular to arguments such as demand outstripping supply, population growth, a stable economy, and other indicators such as housing affordability measures. These maintain that capital increases aren’t negatively affecting first home buyers, because the proportion of income needed to service the loan is balanced in a low interest rate environment. And whilst I’m not suggesting we face an imminent crash, one thing all crises have in common is that the majority never see them coming.  
Ireland is one such example. In the lead up to the GFC, which wiped over 50% of the value off properties in markets such as Dublin, all available economic indicators were firmly pointed toward the positive.  
Since the middle of the 1990s, growth in real disposable income per head had been stronger than any other industrial country.  Residential demand was fuelled principally from robust net migration, coupled with trending fall in household size.  
By 2007, 75% of the population owned outright or were renting, and the proportion of buy to let investors had increased to 27%.  
The overwhelming mantra from the real estate sector fervently claimed a property crash was impossible. Strong GDP growth and low unemployment figures supported a feeling that the environment was protected, and average mortgage payments were estimated to be no more than 30% of household income.  
When supply did respond to demand, it was generally too late, and urban growth restrictions ensured new homes were built in locations far from existing amenities, and therefore not appealing to the home buying demographic.  
Brownfill sites were filled with low-grade high-density unit stock, and subsequently, in the two years leading up to 2007, almost half of all new home purchases stemmed from the investment sector rather than a first home buyer demographic.  
Following the crash, large swaths of these new properties sit vacant, and the lingering lack of quality supply has started to once again <a href="https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/city-housing-bubble-feared-as-prices-soar-by-3000-a-month-29614288" target="_blank">disproportionately inflate</a> established values as the economy starts to show slow signs of recovery.  
The rhetoric stemming from the media also played its part in underpinning the confidence. Various headlines from the Irish Times prove the point aptly: "Bricks and Mortar Unlikely to Lose Their Value" (December 11, 2002), "Prices to Rise as Equilibrium is Miles Away" (March 18, 2004), "House Prices 'Set for Soft Landing'" (November 22, 2005), "Property Market Unlikely to Collapse, Says Danske Chief" (February 2, 2006) and "House Prices Rising at Triple Last Year’s Rate" (June 29, 2006).  
Similarly, the UK was also suffering a housing shortage with data analysis given to parliament suggesting the UK needed "an overall total of 203,000 homes each year during the period 2001 to 2021 to keep pace with newly-arising household growth."  
Whilst it’s impossible to compare against every measure when drawing international comparisons, the spirit of certainty that keeps prices rocking along all too often masks underlying instabilities. Hence why so few see a crash looming.  
This is why it is vital and long overdue, for our politicians to work hard at establishing a political road map that will unpick the current distortions tying up the established market (such as tax incentives which encourage speculative activity and underutilisation of the existing stock), whilst at the same time lowering land prices and increasing effective and quality supply for buyers and renters.
Without action, potential rises in unemployment and future interest rate hikes will simply exacerbate the boom and bust cycles resulting in a slow and painful demographic shift, as an increasing wave of younger Australian’s find themselves in a position where they need to take on a greater and greater proportion of debt just to enter the market.  
It’s easy to palm off the risks by citing that only Sydney and Melbourne are experiencing heated activity – but somewhat foolhardy to think that this won’t have a broader impact as the RBA fight with the conundrum of balancing rates in a multi speed economy. 
Whilst we continue the bubble debate, and both the RBA and government sit on their hands and look sideways assuring us there’s nothing to worry about yet, a largely unregulated housing market, which in some areas is full of pent up demand from cheap money and speculation, has well and truly taken the bit.
 
<hr>
 Catherine Cashmore is a market analyst with extensive experience in all aspects relating to property acquisition.
 
 
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Regulation and speculation, the self-perpetuating forces in Australia’s housing market: Catherine Cashmore

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The Sydney auction market started its 80% auction clearance rate some four months ago.
It's barely skipped a beat since.
Price growth has joined the party, but not every pocket of Sydney has been securing exceptionally strong gains.
Headline grabbing above-reserve auction results have been an emerging trend, but reserves can be quite subjective, and thereby aren't truly representative of the actual price movement.
But the resale of the same property provides the better indicator. Not that they are necessarily truly representative either.
One stellar resale example came in Sydney's Sandringham when a three bedroom cottage - with 2011 approved plans for a contemporary four bedroom residence - sold under the weekend auction hammer.
Set on a 520 square metre block - with polished timber floorboards and high period ceilings - the house fetched $1,411,000  through Ray Fadel of Raine &amp; Horne Sans Souci.
The auctioneer, Will Hampson of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.myauctioneer.com.au/index.php/about-us/will-hampson">My Auctioneer</a> tweeted he had secured $1,121,000 18 months ago for 15 Dickin Avenue (pictured below) when also auctioned through Ray Fadel, ie 15% annualised growth.
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/2013/10/07/sand]}
<div>
It was marketed as "perfect to live in now and re-build later, this neat and tidy sun drenched property is surrounded by quality homes which provides a great opportunity to enter the Sandringham market at an affordable price."
</div>
"Would suit down sizers, young families or owner builders."
And significantly it sold to an owner builder who after beating off rival builders will enjoy all the advantages of undertaking the work himself on his principle place of residence.
Hampson commented there had been the 10 registered bidders.
The bids came quickly, he noted, even after it was announced on the market at $1.27 million when three fought it out.
"I've been auctioneering 18 years now with 15 years of that in property and in many lately the bidding feels like I am back auctioning livestock," he tweeted.
The Sandringham property has been actively traded, selling prior to it current renovated status in October 2010 at $990,000, reflecting 9% annualised growth between 2010 and its 2012 sale. It sold at $860,000 in 2004.
It's recent rental yield was reflected after its 2012 sale when it was offered at a $700 weekly rental, a 3.2% gross yield. <a target="_blank" href="/news">RP Data</a> gives the suburb's median house price as $1,265,000 with a 3.1% gross indicative yield.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
I just sold a house I auctioned 18 months ago for $1,121,000 today I got $1,411,000 that's $290,000 in 18 months now that's a hot auction !
— Will Hampson (@willhampson) <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://twitter.com/willhampson/statuses/386339261391175682">October 5, 2013</a>
</blockquote>
But the weekend auction bidding was subdued at nearby Ramsgate Beach, on Botany Bay where a triple-storey newly completed beachfront property at 6 Florence Street fell short of its $2.4 million reserve to sell for $2.3 million. It was built on its 456 square metre block that cost $890,000 in 2007.
There were seven registered bidders with four bidding. 
APM reported a five-bedroom Strathfield property was Sydney’s highest weekend auction result at $2.73 million sold through Devine Real Estate agent Roger Agha. The most affordable property reported sold at the weekend was a two bedroom unit at 20/1 Tuggerah Parade The Entrance which sold for $235,000 through Ray White Budgewoi.
There were fewer auctions due to the long weekend - just 259 - but the overall 81.8% continued the weekend before when there were about 600.
The upper north shore’s 94% success rate topped the inner west’s 91% from 81 auctions. The lower north shore secured 91% and the south had a 90% clearance rate from its 70 auctions.
While the onsite weekend rate sat above 80%, the addition of mid-week results produced an overall Sydney auction market of 78.6% which Dr Andrew Wilson, the APM senior economist described as the best September ever.
 
 
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Same auctioned Sandringham house shows 15% annualised price growth

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RP Data is expecting 826 auctions in Melbourne this week. After this week there are another 11 weekends for auctions to be held before Christmas and by using last year as a guide we can estimate around 10,000 homes will be offered at auction.
<ul>
<li>
Preliminary clearance rate week ending 29 September: NA (low volume)
</li>
<li>
Melbourne auctions expected week ending 5 October: 826
</li>
<li>
Melbourne private sales time on market week ending 29 September: 39 days (houses)
</li>
<li>
Melbourne vendor discounting market week ending 29 September: -6.2% (houses)
</li>
<li>
Listings being prepared for market: 8.6% higher in month ending 29 September
</li>
</ul>
RP Data is expecting 826 auctions in Melbourne this week. After this week there are another 11 weekends for auctions to be held before Christmas and by using last year as a guide we can estimate around 10,000 homes will be offered at auction.
Of those 10,000 auctions this years trend would suggest around 7,000 will be sold at or before the auction. The majority of those passed in will be negotiated over as the vendor and buyers seek to agree over price and terms.
Across the broader market there continues to be very strong listings as Victoria lead the nation for homes being prepared for sale for the second week in a row.

<hr>
Robert Larocca is Victorian housing market specialist for <a rel="nofollow" href="https://rpdata.com/" target="_blank">RP Data</a>.
 
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rlarocca-zWhvjay44N

RP Data's Melbourne weekend auction preview for October 5-6

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Property developing can throw many different challenges at you and one thing I have learnt after managing over 60 developments is that there is always a solution to a problem. The trick is to understand what possible issues could arise and preparing yourself for them.
You see, the development process is not an exact science because every development site is different.  So the construction costs will rarely, if ever, be the same from project to project, even if you are using the same plans.
Some sites will need more retaining than others based on the fall of the land, others may need more concrete due to the length of the site and then there are the projects that have things lurking below the surface that could never have been imagined.  We once uncovered an old asbestos shed that had been buried many years ago. This did not come up on our geo technical report and had to be removed as contaminated rather than normal waste.
Sometimes if you develop in the same areas, you can work out after a few developments, what is likely to happen.  You may be able to base your estimates on say the soil type as you’ve developed in that same estate.  This can mean similar slab piering will be required as an example. You understand what council is likely to approve and the fees and charges. That’s what experience brings to the table.
But sometimes things don’t go to plan and as a project manager it is up to us to make sure the development gets through as efficiently as possible. One of the biggest areas for problems is the allowance for building works.
When pricing a development and running feasibilities, it is important to understand that your building estimate is an organic creature. By this I mean the building estimate you start with will nearly always be different to the one you end with.  It will evolve throughout the process as you obtain more and more details.  Once you have all the fine details, the building estimate can be finalised to the fixed price builder’s tender.
When designing our villa plans, we generally follow this process:
<ol>
<li>
Concept plan – this will show the number and size of villas on the land, but not much detail
</li>
<li>
Development application (DA) plans – enough information is included on the plans to satisfy  council
</li>
<li>
Construction certificate (CC) plans –more detail, including engineer drainage and slab design
</li>
</ol>
The starting point for our build estimate will be based on similar projects that we have recently completed and an allowance for the different site.
This progresses to an estimate based on the concept plan.  Still a very ‘loose’ estimate as there is usually not enough detail on the concept plan for the builder to have all information he needs.  The build estimate we have at this stage will tell us whether we are tracking within budget.  If not, we can make the necessary changes required, perhaps reducing the size of the villas working with both our builder and architect to design the right dwellings for our project to be successful.
Once the concept plan is approved, the architect will proceed to full DA plans.  It is here that much more detail is added and we will have our builder price the DA plans.  Again, this does not give us a final build cost but we will be getting closer to the expected outcome.  Once approved by our client, the DA plans are finalised and the DA is prepared.
During the DA process, council may request some changes to the plans, so it is important to understand we are still ‘evolving’ at this stage. We also need to review the conditions of the DA consent before we have more detail to finalise the build costs.
Once council have approved the DA, we will start to prepare the CC plans.  Engineers will be briefed and a drainage and engineered slab design or footings for the foundations will be produced. More detail is added to the CC plans, finalising levels and double checking schedules.
Before we lodge the CC plans with our private certifier we will have our builder issue a third costing. It is this costing that will give us the final build costs...well almost.  We still need to have the CC approved and ensure there are no further revisions to the plans required.
After we have the CC stamped plans, our builder will issue their final tender and building contract. This will be a fixed price contract; however, there may still be a few items that will be ‘provisional’. They are usually some site works, removal of fill and retaining walls. 
The builder may mark these items as provisional as they won’t know until works proceed exactly what the cost is. For instance, if rock is hit during the site cut, this will increase the site costs. If the site cut differs slightly to the plans, this may impact on the height of retaining walls.  So these ‘provisional’ items will be charged at actual cost whether it is lower or higher.  
<img alt="chivers-oct-3-one" height="263" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/10/03/chivers-oct-3-one.jpg">
So you can see how the build estimate must evolve through the development process and until your development is completed, you really won’t know the exact cost.  It’s important you allow a contingency amount for variations that may crop up along the way.
As a developer, you will embark on a challenging journey from start to finish and the path you choose can be simplified with the help of a project manager to guide you along the way.  Always take the time to have full builder’s estimates done at each stage to avoid any nasty surprises.
 
<hr>
 Jo Chivers is director of <a title="Property Bloom" href="https://www.propertybloom.com.au/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="font-size: 14px;">Property Bloom</a>, which manages property development.
 
 
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Determining your construction costs at the outset of your development: Jo Chivers

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An increase of 8.7% in property values since the market trough in May 2012 indicates that the housing market is once again back in a growth phase, however, data out today indicates more subdued conditions than some may be expecting.  

The current rate of value appreciation is nowhere near as strong as the growth in values over previous value growth phases.
Although there is some clear strengthening of values, the magnitude of the increase is less than what was recorded during previous growth cycles despite positive data released in the September RP Data-Rismark Home Value Index results earlier this week.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/10/03/kusher-oct-3-one.png" width="470" height="238" alt="kusher-oct-3-one">
While the results showed that capital city home values increased by 5.5% over the past 12 months, and by 8.7% since their recent low point in May 2012, other recent growth periods in the housing market, specifically at the beginning of 2001, 2007 and 2009 show that the rise in values during the current cycle is significantly more modest when compared with these cycles.
Home values across the combined capital cities have been rising since May last year and are now 8.7% higher over the 17 months (including May). Over the 17 months from December 2003 to April 2002, combined capital city home values had increased by 27.6%. The 2007 housing market recovery ran for exactly 17 months with home values rising by 15.1% over that period. Over the 17 months from December 2008 to April 2010 combined capital city home values increased by a total of 19.3%.
Value growth over the first 17 months from December 2001 was three times greater than value growth over the most recent growth phase. In 2007 growth was almost double that of the current period and over the same period post December 2008 values had grown at more than double the current rate of value growth.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/10/03/kusher-oct-3-two.png" width="470" height="257" alt="kusher-oct-3-two">
A further investigation into value growth data across each capital city over these three recent market growth phases shows some interesting findings.
Over the three previous growth phases Melbourne’s housing market recorded the strongest level of capital growth followed by Sydney in 2001 and 2009, and by Brisbane in 2007. In the current recovery phase, the market has taken its lead from Sydney followed by Perth and Darwin (although capital gains in these latter two markets is now decelerating).
In 2001, Darwin showed an extremely muted response to the beginning of the market growth phase and Perth’s initial growth was lower compared with most other capital cities. In 2007, value growth through the recovery was comparatively weak in Perth, Hobart and Sydney. In the 2009 growth phase it was Hobart, Adelaide and Brisbane which experienced the weakest rebound in home values. Looking at the current growth phase, it has once again been Hobart, Adelaide and Brisbane that have experienced the most moderate response.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/10/03/kusher-oct-3-three.png" width="470" height="279" alt="kusher-oct-3-three">
Based on this data it seems as if the national housing market tends to be led by the Melbourne and Sydney housing markets with the recovery across other capital cities generally lagging behind. Today’s results which are evidenced in the accompanying charts show that the remaining capital cities tend to lag the two largest cities.
Another point worth noting is that the periods of strong capital growth in Sydney and Melbourne have tended to not be as long as those in the other major capital cities. This was particularly noticeable in the 2001 growth phase where value growth had slowed in Sydney and Melbourne but continued for a much longer period in Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth.
With value growth typically commencing in Sydney and Melbourne where home values tend to be much higher than those in the other major capital cities, it is no surprise that growth phases tend to be shorter as affordability constraints arise.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/10/03/kusher-oct-3-four.png" width="470" height="237" alt="kusher-oct-3-four">
Given that historically growth periods have tended to be shorter in Sydney and Melbourne than those in Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth it would be reasonable to anticipate that the current rate of value growth will not continue for an extended period of time.
It is also reasonable to expect that over the coming month’s value growth in Brisbane and Adelaide, where the recovery to-date has been quite dormant, we may start to see stronger value growth conditions as the affordability of these cities improves relative to the other major capital cities.
 
<hr>
 Cameron Kusher is senior research analyst at <a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="https://www.myrp.com.au/">RP Data</a>.
 
 
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Housing market back in growth phase, despite subdued growth: Cameron Kusher

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The Reserve Bank’s monetary policy settings are working.  Dwelling values are rising, as should be expected when mortgage rates are at historic lows. 
But arguably what is more important is that the renewed level of housing market confidence is showing up in improved development activity and demand for new homes. This is exactly what the doctor ordered – a ramp up in the construction sector is one of the essential elements of our new look economy where resources related investment will be lower but housing investment is expected to be higher.
Dwelling approvals have been trending higher since about April 2012 which is close to the same time that the housing market bottomed out from a value depreciation perspective.  Between April last year and August this year the number of dwelling approvals (seasonally adjusted) from the private sector has increased by close to 30% and over the past twelve months dwelling approvals are 10.3% higher for detached homes and 3.2% higher for multi-unit dwellings.
<img style="margin: 0px auto 15px; padding: 3px; border: 1px solid #e6e6e6; outline-width: 0px; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.701961); max-width: 100%; text-align: center; height: auto; display: block; vertical-align: bottom;" height="153" width="470" src="https://blog.rpdata.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/National-private-sector-dwelling-approvals-580x189.jpg" alt="National private sector dwelling approvals" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2396">
The lift in development activity has a significant multiplier effect on the economy.  For a start, more homes being built means more hours worked in the construction sector and more jobs.  Demand for building materials rises as well as home furnishings, bulky goods, appliances and white goods.
The improvement in dwelling approvals is likely to be driven by a number of factors.  The overall market growth cycle will have a lot to do with it; developers and builders are more inclined to release new supply when consumer demand for housing is higher (transaction numbers were about 22% higher than a year ago based on our estimates for July). 
Another factor would be government grants and stamp duty concession which are firmly aimed at providing incentives to purchase new homes rather than established ones.  And finally there is also the strong rate of population growth which is fuelling organic demand for new housing (Australia’s population grew by 1.8% over the year to March 2013 which equates to just under 400,000 new residents).
The surging demand for new homes shows up clearly in the ABS housing finance commitments data.  The graph below plots the number of new mortgage commitments by owner occupiers for newly built homes.  Finance demand for new housing hasn’t been this high since 1979 and the number of commitments in July this year were 52% higher than a year ago.
<img style="margin: 0px auto 15px; padding: 3px; border: 1px solid #e6e6e6; outline-width: 0px; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.701961); max-width: 100%; text-align: center; height: auto; display: block; vertical-align: bottom;" height="157" width="470" src="https://blog.rpdata.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/Number-of-housing-fin-commitments-for-new-homes-oo-only-580x194.jpg" alt="Number of housing fin commitments for new homes (oo only)" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2397">
Dwelling approvals from state to state are a bit of a mixed bag though.  The New South Wales region is the driving force behind the surge in dwelling approvals with the latest August data showing a 48% lift in private sector approvals compared August 2012.  In July, New South Wales accounted for 28% of all private sector dwelling approvals nationally.
<img style="margin: 0px auto 15px; padding: 3px; border: 1px solid #e6e6e6; outline-width: 0px; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.701961); max-width: 100%; text-align: center; height: auto; display: block; vertical-align: bottom;" height="157" width="470" src="https://blog.rpdata.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/NSW-private-sector-dwelling-approvals-580x194.jpg" alt="NSW private sector dwelling approvals" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2398">
Dwelling approvals have eased in Victoria after a surge of development approval activity in 2009/10.   In fact, at their height, Victorian dwelling approvals accounted for 40% of all approvals nationally. 
Based on the July 2013 data, Victoria now comprises a much healthier 27% of all dwelling approvals nationally and the lower rate of dwelling approvals together with Victoria’s very high rate of population growth should help to bring reduce fears of local oversupply.
<img style="margin: 0px auto 15px; padding: 3px; border: 1px solid #e6e6e6; outline-width: 0px; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.701961); max-width: 100%; text-align: center; height: auto; display: block; vertical-align: bottom;" height="157" width="470" src="https://blog.rpdata.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/VIC-private-sector-dwelling-approvals-580x194.jpg" alt="VIC private sector dwelling approvals" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2399">
With Queensland’s housing market remaining fairly depressed (Brisbane values have only moved 1.1% higher over the past twelve months), developer confidence is yet to pick up.  Private sector dwelling approvals have increased by 10% over the past year but remain well below the long term average. 
Despite the low number of approvals, population growth into Queensland remains rapid, with the state population growing by 92,300 residents over the year to March – roughly the same raw figures as New South Wales but with about a third less new housing supply coming on line.
<img style="margin: 0px auto 15px; padding: 3px; border: 1px solid #e6e6e6; outline-width: 0px; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.701961); max-width: 100%; text-align: center; height: auto; display: block; vertical-align: bottom;" height="156" width="470" src="https://blog.rpdata.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/Qld-private-sector-dwelling-approvals-580x193.jpg" alt="Qld private sector dwelling approvals" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2400">
South Australia’s housing market has remained one of the weakest across the capital cities, with dwelling values 0.8% lower over the past twelve months.  With such sedate housing market conditions it is surprising to see dwelling approvals rise by 30% over the past twelve months.  76% of South Australian dwelling approvals are for detached homes, highlighting the fact that the local unit market in Adelaide remains a very small proportion of the dwelling mix despite the state government offering attractive incentives to purchase new inner city units.
<img style="margin: 0px auto 15px; padding: 3px; border: 1px solid #e6e6e6; outline-width: 0px; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.701961); max-width: 100%; text-align: center; height: auto; display: block; vertical-align: bottom;" height="159" width="470" src="https://blog.rpdata.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/SA-private-sector-dwelling-approvals-580x196.jpg" alt="SA private sector dwelling approvals" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2401">
Dwelling approvals in Western Australia have increased by 18% over the past twelve months in line with very robust housing market conditions. The rate of capital gain across Perth has recently been slowing, as has rental growth and buyer numbers appear to have peaked as well, so it may be the case that developer activity starts to mellow across WA as well.
<img style="margin: 0px auto 15px; padding: 3px; border: 1px solid #e6e6e6; outline-width: 0px; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.701961); max-width: 100%; text-align: center; height: auto; display: block; vertical-align: bottom;" height="160" width="470" src="https://blog.rpdata.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/WA-private-sector-dwelling-approvals-580x197.jpg" alt="WA private sector dwelling approvals" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2402">
One final point on the new level of dwelling approvals is the trend towards more medium and high density product.  The graph below shows the number of dwelling approvals for detached homes nationally as a proportion of all dwelling approvals.  Houses now comprise around 60% of all dwelling approvals, a big shift from 10years ago where they accounted for closer to 70% of all dwelling approvals.
The trend towards unit development is likely being driven by changing market preferences (more empty nesters and single person households), affordability constraints (units tend to be cheaper) and changed zoning rules (more land is zoned for medium and high density development particularly in areas closer to the city centre).
<img style="margin: 0px auto 15px; padding: 3px; border: 1px solid #e6e6e6; outline-width: 0px; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.701961); max-width: 100%; text-align: center; height: auto; display: block; vertical-align: bottom;" height="159" width="470" src="https://blog.rpdata.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/National-houses-as-a-pc-of-all-dwelling-approvals-580x196.jpg" alt="National houses as a pc of all dwelling approvals" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2403">

<hr>
Tim Lawless is national research director of <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.myrp.com.au/" target="_blank">RP Data.</a>
 
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Strong housing market fuels dwelling construction: Tim Lawless

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There has been a lot of coverage lately about whether there's a housing bubble or not, and so we're asking Property Observer readers to weigh in with their thoughts.
 
<img alt="poll-results-oct-4" height="258" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/10/04/poll-results-oct-4.jpg">Tomorrow, we'll bring you some coverage of what the experts perspectives are around this debate.
Feel free to email in your thoughts to <a target="_blank" href="mailto:jduke@propertyobserver.com.au">jduke@propertyobserver.com.au</a>
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Do you think there is a housing bubble in Australia?

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Companies beavering away in the resources industry must know how Mark Twain (who was declared dead by newspapers when he was very much alive) felt when he reportedly said, “the reports of my death have been greatly exaggerated.”  
They must wonder if they have slipped into a parallel universe when the industry they’re working in has been declared dead and buried.  
This is a relevant issue for property investors because of the link between resources activity, jobs creation and consequent demand for real estate in mining towns, regional centres and capital cities.  
There is a fundamental mis-reading of the signals coming out of the resources sector, by so-called analysts and by media.  
Cost-cutting is seen as evidence that the sector is dying. A decline in prices for some commodities, such as coal, is interpreted as death of the industry rather than simply another stage in the volatile resources cycle. A few negative reports out of China are translated into “the resources boom is over because China is slowing down."  
This comment by Rob Neale, CEO of coal miner New Hope, is pertinent: "The international thermal coal market is oversupplied and the industry is suffering to varying extents. We have been in the business for a long time and we have withstood many of these cycles and I would expect to continue to do so."
So is this one from Michael Roche, CEO of the Queensland Resources Council: “The latest export data suggests that Bowen Basin coal producers are responding skilfully to global market realities by reducing costs and increasing volumes to reinforce Queensland's position as a supplier of choice to Asia.”
And this one from Scott Barklamb, executive director of the Australian Mines and Metals Association: “The industry has never accepted a simplistic ‘boom versus bust’ view of the economy.”
And, finally, this comment from Origin chief executive Grant King: “It's not over. Most of the capital still has to be spent in order to deliver these big projects."
So, here are my top 15 reasons why the resources boom is far from over.  
1). The economies that are driving the Australian resources revolution, such as India and China, continue to grow at phenomenal rates. The so-called “slowdown in China” is a myth. The Asian Century is just beginning.  
2). Resources projects currently under construction total $268 billion. That’s $268,000,000,000.  
3). The change of federal government means some unwelcome (to the mining industry) taxes will be eliminated. The new government says it will “re-boot” the mining boom by taking measures to reduce costs. It says there are over 50 major mining and port projects awaiting approval.  
4). BHP Billiton and Rio Tinto are exporting record levels of iron ore and continue to expand. Rio, for example, is expanding its port, rail and mine operations in the Pilbara to lift output to 290 million tonnes per year. Other iron ore miners, like Fortescue Metals and BC Iron, are delivering record production. Demand for cape-size vessels to service Australian iron ore exports has tripled since June.  
5). BHP says the resources boom will extend at least another 15 years. Chairman Jac Nasser says: “We maintain a positive outlook over the long term as the fundamentals of wealth creation, demographics and urbanisation continue to create demand for commodities across Asia and other markets.”
6). Australia is on target to become, within the next five years or so, the world’s biggest exporter of LNG.  
7). The three mega gas projects focused on Gladstone are about halfway through their construction phase while a fourth (the $15 billion Arrow Energy gas project) has recently been approved.  Contractor for all three projects, Bechtel, is hiring at least 100 workers every week - the expected workforce peak is 10,500, which is expected to continue until mid-2014.  
8). Other major resources-related projects in Gladstone include the Fisherman's Landing, Boulder Steel, Gladstone Gas Power Station and the Yarwun Refinery projects. To service these, another workers' camp development application (for 516 rooms) is before Gladstone Regional Council.  
9). Big contracts continue to be awarded in the Surat Basin coal seam gas industry, such as the $1.8 billion contact recently handed to Thiess by QGC.
10). Woodside is proceeding with its $40 billion Browse LNG project WA, contrary to media reports of its death, with its Japanese and Chinese partners agreeing to a floating offshore processing facility. The project is being strongly backed by new federal Industry Minister Ian Macfarlane.  
11). The $9 billion Roy Hill iron ore project in WA has been handing out major contracts, including a $620 million rail works contract to NRW Holdings, a $420 million contract to BGC Contracting and a $1.47 billion contract to Forge Group (for a processing facility). The $7.7 billion West Pilbara Iron Ore project is being planned by Aquila Resources and partner AMCI Investments. Fortescue Metals Group is going ahead with its $3 billion Iron Bridge magnetite project and has announced a $1.25 billion development deal with Formosa Plastic group of Taiwan.  
10). South Australia has announced a $5 billion infrastructure corridor to cater to a projected eight-fold rise in iron ore exports from the state. The Eyre Peninsula has multiple iron ore projects under way or in planning.  
11). The Queensland Resources Council says that the Queensland coal industry is positioning itself for “the inevitable revival of coal demand, driven by China and India”.
12). Multiple coal mining projects, each of them a multi-billion-dollar venture, are gearing for a construction start in Queensland’s Galilee Basin, with proactive support from the state government. They represent investment totalling well over $20 billion.  
13). An economic needs analysis has identified 17 coalmining projects in varying stages of development in the Central Highlands near Emerald. It estimated a mining workforce in the Emerald area rising from 800 in 2012 to 4,150 in 2022. A 600-person FIFO accommodation village is planned. BHP recently officially opened its Dania coking coal mine near Moranbah in Queensland, its seventh Bowen Basin mine in its partnership with Mitsubishi.  
14). Port Waratah Coal Services has just completed a $1.5 billion expansion of its export facilities at the Port of Newcastle, lifting capacity to 145 million tonnes per year. Newcastle continues to be the world’s biggest coal export port.  
15). In addition in Newcastle, major new export port development are happening around Australia. The multi-billon-dollar Wiggins Island Coal Export Terminal project is under way at Gladstone. Stage one construction of WICET is about 65% complete, with coal operations to begin in 2015. Work is under way on Rio Tinto’s Cape Lambert Port B project in WA - it recently handed a $235 million construction contract to Monadelphous Group.
That is a very short list of some of the action underpinning my conviction that the resources revolution in Australia will be thriving – and driving real estate demand around the nation – long after I’m as dead as Mark Twain was thought to be.
 
<hr>
 Terry Ryder is the founder of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.hotspotting.com.au/" rel="nofollow">hotspotting.com.au</a> and you can contact Terry via <a href="https://mailto:%20ryder@hotspotting.com.au" target="_blank">email</a> or on <a href="https://twitter.com/hotspotting" target="_blank">Twitter</a>.
 
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