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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The National Rental Affordability Scheme is facing hurdles with many banks refusing to lend to investors buying properties developed under the scheme.
The government sponsored investment scheme allows certain developers to build properties which are then sold to investors who rent it out at 20% below the market rate to eligible renters.
But developers are reportedly selling the properties at a price above what the banks think they are worth.
AVJennings chief executive Peter Summers says companies such as his own are having difficulty settling sales of NRAS properties.
"You can get sales away but they're falling over because of valuation issues," Summers told The Australian.
"I think it's a very good product class for investors but the banks are still a reluctant to lend to NRAS properties.”
Gavin Hulcombe from Herron Todd White says the complexity of the scheme combined with the valuation differences mean banks are unwilling to lend on the properties.
"It's the complexity of the schemes, particularly the leases and the exit and entry clauses that are causing concern,” Hulcombe said.
He says commission payments from developers to financial planners to sell the properties had pushed up the price to complicated the valuation.
Property commentator Margaret Lomas recently write that <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/western-australia/is-there-really-government-income-guaranteed-housing-ask-margaret/2013081464151">re-sellers can receive a $25,000 plus commission</a> to sell NRAS properties which inflate the price.
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Banks baulking at lending on many NRAS properties as selling commissions cloud valuations

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For the past three years headline-writers at metropolitan newspapers have been in despair. They have been cruelly denied the opportunity to put “bubble” in a headline.  
With capital city prices mostly in decline since 2010, even a species willing to use fabrication when sensationalism won’t do has been unable to conjure a bubble out of our property markets.  
Now, with capital city prices up a moderate 5% on average, a peephole of opportunity has appeared.  
Sub-editors have, as willing accomplices, a gaggle of chattering economists and sharemarket analysts who see an opportunity for a bit of personal limelight while pontificating on a subject outside their sphere expertise.  
That’s all it takes in this country to turn a nothing into a sensational issue.  
Auction rates signal boom at hand, shouts the Sydney Morning Herald.
Fears of bust as property runs hot, squeals The Australian.
Hallelujah, the bubble is back.  
Three years ago BIS Shrapnel, which makes part of its living from mis-forecasting property markets, declared in 2010 that capital city prices would continue to rise strongly.
By 2013 Perth would be up 22% and both Sydney and Adelaide would have added 20%.  
Nothing of the sort happened, of course. Three years on, Perth is up about 7% and Sydney a meagre 4%. Adelaide is still down 3%. These are not statistics that support bubble theories.  
For there to be a bubble fit to burst, there needs to be a major decline in affordability.
But Australia has the opposite.
The past eight quarters have produced consecutive improvements in affordability. Prices, on average, have fallen and there have been multiple interest rate decreases.  
The forgotten part of the affordability equation, income, has assisted as well.
New figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics suggest an average 5% rise in wages in the past 12 months. That’s a rise larger than the median price rise over the past year in five of the eight capital cities.  
It’s significant that much of the bubble hysteria is coming out of Sydney.
People who think Australia starts at Sydney Heads, ends somewhere east of Parramatta and occupies a narrow corridor in between those two points, believe that the current auction frenzy in their narrow world represents the Australian property market.  
To get an idea of how these people think, here is what agent John McGrath, much loved by the Sydney media, said not so long ago: “Sydney remains the BHP of Australian real estate – the big blue-chip market that generally out-performs the others.”  
John, welcome back from the parallel universe you’ve been visiting these past 10 years.
The research shows that Sydney has been the chronic under-achiever of the capital city property markets over the past decade. Its capital growth rates have been the worst, by a considerable margin, among the eight state and territory capital cities.
And for those who cling to the myth about the superior performance of the blue-chip suburbs, here’s the capital growth rates (average annual growth in median prices over the past 10 years) of millionaire suburbs in Sydney:
Balgowlah 2.5%, Balmain East 3.7, Bayview 3.5, Birchgrove 2.6, Cammeray 5.1, Castle Cove 2.4, Chatswood 4.2, Clontarf 1.1, Clovelly 4.0, Collaroy 3.7, Cremorne 2.8, Cronulla 2.6, Darling Point 0.5, Double Bay 3.1, Dover Heights 3.1, East Killara 3.7, Gordon 3.0, Greenwich 4.2, Hunters Hill 2.8, Kensington 3.8, Killara 2.3, Lane Cove 3.7, Lilli Pilli 0.3, Lindfield 4.1, Longueville 2.0, Malabar 2.8, Manly 4.3, McMahons Point 2.8, Mosman 2.4, Neutral Bay 3.5, North Bondi 4.8, North Sydney 2.2, Northbridge 4.1, Paddington 4.7, Palm Beach 1.3, Pymble 3.6, Queens Park 3.8, Randwick 4.4, Rose Bay 1.9, Roseville Chase 2.4, Seaforth 4.0, St Ives 2.4, Sylvania Waters 3.8, Turramurra 3.2, Vaucluse 1.3, Warrawee 3.3 Willoughby 4.8, Woollahra 2.4.
Sydney has been an investor’s nightmare since 2004.
Now, at last, it’s showing some signs of life and the rulers of the universe who inhabit the place are in a bit of a tizz.  
Turi Condon, property editor of The Australian, who takes the time to write an article about as often as the Wallabies beat the All Blacks, was moved to put together a piece that told us that Sydney’s inner suburbs were “red hot”.
McGrath has also declared Sydney to be “red hot”.  
Do you need to know more?
Sydney’s red hot so Australia has a property bubble.
Obviously.
 
<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 him at <a href="https://mailto:ryder@hotspotting.com.au">ryder@hotspotting.com.au</a> or <a target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/hotspotting">twitter.com/hotspotting</a>.
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Sydney's property bubble hysteria is unfounded: Terry Ryder

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The mainstream media have latched on to the auction frenzy and have called that a property boom is at hand in the eastern states.
Meanwhile, more serious economists such as Bassanese at the AFR <a href="https://www.afr.com/p/business/companies/house_price_gains_are_likely_to_V1AXlljClgmlv1tp9jpGYM" target="_blank">"remain bullish house prices"</a>, while experienced property market analyst <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/trends/seven-reasons-why-prices-might-rise-25-in-select-australian-east-coast-cities-over-next-three-years-michael-matusik/2013081464226" target="_blank">Michael Matusik notes that</a> Australia's eastern states could see proce growth of up to 25% over the next three years.
Over at Business Spectator, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/news/robert-gottliebsen-forecasts-mother-of-all-dwelling-booms-driven-by-property-investors/2013081864307?utm_source=po&amp;utm_medium=aida&amp;utm_campaign=news">Robert Gottliebsen forecasts that Australia is heading for "the mother of all dwelling booms"</a> caused by an imbalance between supply and demand.
That's a fair amount of positive sentiment doing the rounds.
It's no doubt confusing for new entrants to the property market, because on the flip side there continue to be negative angles reported too.
There's an old saying in investment circles (which is <a href="https://moneyweek.com/government-bond-bubble-13901/" target="_blank">claimed as their own by a few people</a>) that says: "a speculative bubble is a bull market which you don't have a position in."
There's much more than a grain of truth in that.
The overwhelming majority of those barracking the property market dynamics are either renters (who doubtless want prices to crash so that they can participate in the market themselves) or people making an easy dollar from selling stories on the existence of a bubble.
This all makes logical sense and 'twas always thus: property price rises naturally seem unfair to those not participating in the upside, and that will never change.
There are several negative angles which get churned over.
One is that owning property is somehow vaguely unethical. Such articles can usually be identified by not-so-subtle name-calling with words like "amateur speculators", "unsophisticated landlords", "rent-seekers" and the old favourite "specufestors", being lightly sprinkled in.
Ideally, the words "greed" and "foreign buyers" should also feature.
As a renter myself, I'm very glad that we have landlords to house us - a modern capitalist system would never work in any other way.
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/books/2013/aug/18/default-line-extract-faisal-islam-housing?CMP=twt_gu#comments" target="_blank">Articles continue</a> to portray landlords as evil, making people homeless on a whim or turfing them out at the drop of a hat in a frivolous game of "eviction popcorn":
"Young first-time buyers such as Naomi Jacobs in Newcastle finds herself more in a property nightmare than a property dream. "I'd love to buy a little house now," she told me. She wants to have a family, and as the family gets bigger so she'd want a bigger house. That is the dream. Naomi is a science graduate, a science graduate with a job. But she can't get a mortgage. She blames the buy-to-letters. "The smaller flats that first-time buyers would want are ideal for them to rent out," she sighs. "But that's the way it is these days. It's slightly cruel when you think about it."
On the face of it, this sounds 'bad' and we are invited to be up in arms at the unfairness of it all, the angle being that an employed graduate can't get a mortgage.
But there's no explanation of why she can't get a mortgage. Usually, that would only be because no deposit has been saved by the potential borrower.
So is this an argument for a return to 100% mortgages then? Which, by the way, are the exact same products which also get blamed for speculative activity and booming prices.
It's a never ending negative loop, of course.
 
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
The market commentary where I am at the moment in England, has seamlessly shifted from a devastating property market crash to a new property market bubble in just a couple of short months.
Literally only a few weeks ago there were cautionary tales that many remain in negative equity after the crash (this is indeed true in parts of the country), yet as prices are recovering strongly on a national basis it is already also being termed as a bubble.
It's apparently a crash and a bubble at the same time.
With the mass proliferation of online commentary, I suppose that this is a trend which won't go away.
Prices are going up - this is bad because it must be a bubble. Prices could be falling so the whole world is doomed. Someone is in negative equity, so only fools would buy property. Interest rates are falling , this will cause a bubble. And now they're rising, it's unaffordable. Some people work in finance - this is also bad...
You only really have two choices when it comes to property: to complain about how unfair the world is or to do something about improving your own situation.
If that sounds unsympathetic, it's not mean to - it wasn't so many years ago that I was 21 myself and as I entered the full-time workforce all the talk was of unfair and unsustainable London house prices.
The media reports of an Australian property boom should also be viewed with caution.
It's illogical to talk about one property market. Even within cities and suburbs, some property types will appreciate strongly in value over the next decade, while some buyers will pay too much for the wrong type of property and remain forever convinced that owning property is a dud idea.
It has to be said, for all the talk of a boom, Australian property price growth over the last few years has been relatively muted in plenty of areas, which after all, is the best long-term outcome for Australia - prices growing perhaps slightly slower than household incomes, effectively leading to a gradual improvement in affordability over time.
Some people will always do well out of property. Others will always get it wrong. 
Caveat emptor - buyer beware.
 
<hr>
Pete Wargent is the co-founder of <a href="https://allenwargent.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">AllenWargent</a> property buyers (London, Sydney) and a best-selling author and <a href="https://petewargent.blogspot.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">blogger</a>.  
His new book '<a href="https://www.bigskypublishing.com.au/Books/General-Interest/Four-Green-Houses--and-a-Red-Hotel/1015/productview.aspx" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Four Green Houses and a Red Hotel</a>' is released on 1 September 2013.
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Tale of two property markets, the positive and negative media narratives: Pete Wargent

<html><body>Australian Property Monitors (APM) has released a list of results from 299 auctions in Sydney for the weekend of August 17. The clearance rate was 81.6%. <a style="font-size: 14px;" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="https://www.homepriceguide.com.au/saturday_auction_results/Sydney.pdf">Click here</a> for the auction results, and click on each street address to see the property's marketing.</body></html>

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APM's Sydney 299 auction results show a 81.6% clearance rate

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A report by the Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corporation (HSBC) has found that Australia is the most expensive country for international study, surging ahead of the United States and the United Kingdom.
The report found that the average annual cost of study in Australia amounted to some US$38,000, followed by the United States at US$35,000, and the United Kingdom at US$30,000.
HSBC Australia head of retail banking and wealth management Graham Heunis said the strength of the Australian economy and the Australian dollar has kept the cost of studying in Australia high relative to other markets.
According to data from Australian Education International, there were 379,214 enrolments by full-fee paying international students as of June this year, a decline of 2.2% on last year. This is in contrast to a 5.8% average increase of enrolments each June in the last decade.
Heunis believes the falling Australian dollar and improved visa processing could see student enrolments bouncing back.
“While Australia’s education sector has taken a hit in terms of overseas student numbers, the proportion of international students in Australia remains strong, indicating many are looking past the cost impact to other factors such as quality of life and education and proximity to home.
The falling Aussie dollar and simplified visa process should spark a resurgence in overseas students placing Australia on top of their destination lists,” Heunis said.
Australian universities continue to be competitive compared to their international counterparts.
Seven Australian universities retained their top 200 positions in the Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU) prepared by China’s Shanghai Jiaotong University.
The University of Melbourne remained as Australia’s top institution, moving up three spots to 54th place.
Melbourne has ranked number one in Australia for three consecutive years, and was also the first Australian university to achieve a top 200 ranking in the ARWU for all ten individual disciplines.
Other universities in the top 100 include the Australian National University (66), University of Queensland (85), University of Western Australia (91) and University of Sydney (97).
Monash University and the University of NSW were named in the 101-150 band.
A report from the International Education Advisory Council released in February this year projected a 30% growth to the education industry by 2020, estimating that Australia will be home to some 520,000 international students, contributing $19.1 billion to the local economy.
The same report revealed that 52% of the $15.7 billion revenue from the international education sector in 2011 went towards host communities – including accommodation providers, the retail sector, travel services and other community enterprises.
Property Observer recently reported that there is a shortage of purpose-built student accommodation in most Australian capital cities.
Currently, there are 41,250 beds available for students around Australia, leading students to turn to the private rental market for their accommodation needs.
As of the 2011 Census, there are over 826,200 units in main cities around Australia. However, a 2012 Jones Lang LaSalle report found many students encounter difficulties in securing private rental accommodation due to fierce competition from other potential tenants, unaffordable rentals, and a national vacancy rate of around 2%.
The same report also revealed that Australia is considered to be ten years behind mature markets in providing quality student housing. This therefore gives investors an opportunity to reap the benefits of early entry into the market.
Other attributes of the student housing sector include solid rental growth above inflation rates, resilient performance in downturns, strong demand, and high occupancy rates.
This has led student accommodation providers such as Urbanest and The Pad to expand their operations.
Urbanest, which provides student acommodation in Adelaide, Sydney, and Brisbane, is launching a Melbourne student accommodation building next February in Carlton.
Meanwhile, <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/victoria/investor-interest-sought-for-rmit-village-student-accommodation/2013081863581?utm_source=po&amp;utm_medium=aida&amp;utm_campaign=news" title="Investor interest sought for RMIT village student accommodation">investor interest is being sought for RMIT village student accommodation</a> in North Melbourne. The <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-hotel+leisure-vic-north+melbourne-500822239" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="font-size: 14px;">Jones Lang LaSalle</a> marketing gives a projected net income of $4.6 million for this year.
Brisbane-based student accommodation provider The Pad also recently announced expansion plans to Sydney, Melbourne, and Canberra, following the backing of investment group Telopea Capital Partners. 
Image courtesy of Justin Kim/flickr.
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Australia the most expensive country for international study but remains attractive for students and investors

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The reduction of official interest rates to 2.50% is an historic event which raises a number of questions: how slow is the economy?
Have we reached the bottom of the interest rate cycle?
How are savers coping with the low returns?
I’ve had a lot of correspondence about saving this year, and I thought I’d make some observations about how to get the best out of your cash in such a low interest rate environment.
1. Know your goal:
This should be your starting point.
If you’re saving for a house or to go overseas, you might want different product features than if you’re planning to live on the yield from your existing lump sum.
So set your saving goals and ensure you’re looking at the right options for your money.
2. Shop around:
When looking for the best deal on your cash, you must be prepared to deposit somewhere other than your usual bank.
When the cash rate is so low, a difference of .05% can be important and you’ll only be aware of the difference if you stay informed.
Use the financial comparison sites on the internet.
3. Spread the money:
People trying to save a lump sum should consolidate into one high interest account, so they pay only one set of fees.
But if your lump sum has to pay you an income, I suggest having the cash in at least two places so you can offset poor performance in one, with the solid performance of another.
Have the bulk of your savings in a high interest cash account, but think about diversifying into term deposits and funds where your cash is invested in a mix of cash and bonds.
4. Understand your actions:
The pursuit of yields can lead people into depositing money in a product that only pays interest quarterly, or that locks away their capital for an inconvenient duration.
Or, you find a great return on your money only to discover that the high interest rate finishes after six months and then reverts to a much lower rate.
If your primary concern is security, remember that cash deposits in banks, building societies and credit unions (and other ADIs) are guaranteed by the government, up to $250,000.
5. Don’t cheat yourself:
The yields for term deposits are typically between 3.75 and 4% right now.
That spread can cost you several thousand dollars a year on large balances, so make sure you’re closer to the high end of the interest rate spread.
Also, if your cash earns 4% in an online saver, and you have a well-used credit card that charges you 15% and fees, you are cheating yourself by not making that credit card payment a priority.
And never forget inflation – your cash deposits must be at least ahead of inflation, or your gains are largely illusory.
Finally, try to be level headed.
Avoid panic and exuberance – they both lead to poor decisions.
Better to let the facts guide you towards good judgement.
 
<hr>
 Image courtesy of Sal Falko/flickr.
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Five tips to get the most out of a low interest rate environment: Mark Bouris

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Sydney's auction clearance rates are still tracking record levels with last weekend's year-high of 83.8%, the fifth consecutive result above 80%.
Australian Property Monitors says Sydney's weekend auction clearance rates are 25% higher than this time last year.
"Buyers are competing fiercely for properties, particularly in the lower and middle price brackets," APM's senior economist Dr Andrew Wilson said.
There are 402 auctions scheduled for this weekend, similar to last weekend, but considerably higher than the 278 auctioned on the same weekend last year.
With 69 scheduled auctions, Sydney's inner west is the most popular region followed by the upper north shore with 53 auctions, then the city and east with 42 and the south with 41.
The most popular suburb for house auctions is Mosman on the lower north shore with eight.
Ryde ranks next with six.
The inner west suburbs with five auctions include Strathfield, Marrickville, Burwood and Lilyfield.
Fairfield is the leading suburb for unit auctions in Sydney with four auctions.
Sydney July auction listings were up 16.5% at 1,577 compared to last July's 1,344 listings.
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Sydney set for another 400-plus bumper auction weekend

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Designing a fashionable evening gown for Miranda Kerr or Megan Gale is one thing, developing apartments that appeal to off-the-plan investors is another as Alex Perry has found out.
Two years after launching Alex Perry Residential in Fortitude Valley complete with models, champagne and canapés, the 11 level apartment block planned for 959 Ann Street has yet to proceed to construction.
And ambitious plans for nine <a href="https://www.alexperryresidential.com/gallery/" target="_blank">Alex Perry-inspired apartments </a>to be rolled out across Australia by 2021 haven't eventuated.
When first launched in mid-2011 with the fanfare attached to the fashion designer, construction of Alex Perry Residential was pencilled for January 2012, but was then put back to the end of 2012 following a re-design.
The redesign pulled out the expensive three-bedroom apartments and replaced them with one-bedroom apartments as part of a proposal that would to turn 77 out of the 143 apartments into serviced apartments. The website now lists a 2014 estimated completion date.
Construction is now set to begin in the final quarter of 2013, but subject to enough sales being achieved to satisfy the financiers of the development.
A December 2012 report on the project said one-bedroom apartments started from $350,000 and two-bedroom apartments starting from $513,000, ranging in size from 47 square metres to 81 square metres with a guaranteed rental return of 7%.
Developer Chrome Property did not provide a sales update to Colliers International for its March quarter inner Brisbane apartment report.
Colliers records just 40 apartments have been sold off-the-plan out of 143 in the $75 million project.
The top Fortitude Valley seller over the quarter was David Devine’s Central Village with 67 off-the-plan sales over the March quarter for Cambridge Towers, the first stage of the $450 million development, currently under construction.
Rod Fiddler, managing director of Xede Property Development Services, the project director of Alex Perry Residential, told Property Observer, they are “not in the business of publicly declaring sales results as these are too often manipulated or misinterpreted”.
Fiddler says the project has received development approval with a builder appointed.
“Sales are continuing and we are progressing towards financiers’ pre-sales targets."
He says construction is targeted to commence “this side of Christmas with demolition as early as September 2013."
Alex Perry’s involvement in real estate development dates back to 2008 when he lent his design expertise to the interiors of the doomed nine-apartment project at 10 Wylde Street, Potts Point, developed by Ashington, which collapsed in 2010.
The project’s promotion was originally handled by public relations firm Baker Brand, which says it is no longer involved in the project.
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Apartment development still not all that fashionable for Alex Perry

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Stockland will release the first stage of its new Willowdale development in the south-west Sydney suburb of Denham Court this weekend.
Willowdale is part of the larger $1 billion residential development in the East Leppington precinct.
Willowdale will ultimately comprise of approximately 3,000 homes across a 350-hectare site, with the first stage of 49 lots to be launched on August 17.
<img alt="willowdale-aug-16-two" height="461" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/08/willowdale-aug-16-two.jpg">
Lots range in size from 350 square metres to 600 square metres and start at $229,000.
Willowdale is located 1.5 kilometres from the future Leppington train station, which will be part of the upcoming south west rail link.
Residents will have access to a local shopping centre, 25 hectares of open space and a primary school.
Willowdale will go to market as one of Stockland’s higher margin projects, as the company looks to broaden its market reach by expanding its medium density offering.
<img alt="willowdale-aug-16-three" height="245" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/08/willowdale-aug-16-three.jpg">
The Stockland managing director Mark Steinert has described the past year as a "trough" year for Stockland as it <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/land/trough-year-for-stockland-who-are-now-focused-on-higher-margin-residential-projects/2013081264138" target="_blank">reported its results for the year ending 30 June 2013</a> with its underlying $494.8 million profit, down 27% on the previous corresponding period.
"This has been a challenging year and we have responded with a number of important strategic decisions that position our business for stronger future returns," says Steinert.
Stage two release dates are yet to be announced.
The median house price in <a href="/news">Denham Court</a> is $1.2 million, according to RP Data.
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Stockland launches Willowdale as part of $1 billion East Leppington residential development

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An industrial holding at Wentworth Point currently owned by the NSW Government has been advertised for a rezoning proposal.
It's outcome could be a vibrant new residential community with 2,300 homes and new public access along 1.2km of the Sydney Harbour foreshore.
The Department of Planning and Infrastructure issued plans last month to revitalise the 18.6 ha of government land at Wentworth Point over the next two decades.
The key elements of the plan include:
· a new 3.9 ha peninsula park along with three new pocket parks
· foreshore cycling and walking paths at least 20m wide – opening up this area to public access for the first time
· an 18-classroom school with playing fields by 2017
· upgrades to nearby Hill and Bennelong Rds to accommodate the increased population
· A range of low, mid and high-rise residential buildings
· new maritime uses adjacent to Homebush Bay for rowing/kayaking facility, dry boat storage and supporting retail and businesses
Community comments are due by August 16.
 
<iframe width="470" height="272" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/S-7CnBrfAV4?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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