An entity directed by HSN's Rafi Assouline and Rebel Property's Allen Linz has filed plans for an impressive new precinct in Woolloomooloo.

The major mixed-use development would transform a prominent William Street site into a new residential village anchored by affordable housing and a large public park.

The proposal, submitted as a State Significant Development Application, covers 164-172 and 174-194 William Street, a 6,398 sqm site between Forbes Street and Dowling Street on the southern edge of Woolloomooloo.

Designed by fjcstudio in collaboration with Bangawarra, Studio Bright and Tribe Studio Architects, the scheme would deliver 227 apartments across four residential buildings ranging in height up to 18 storeys, alongside retail space, public domain improvements and a new publicly accessible park.

<img alt="Rebel" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0eb59b7c-914a-4a5c-b849-3a56749f5e93" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-12%20at%2011.18.51%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=mxM6EEqeoLjrCiTlCzTKTvzpKuh6kSkH" />

It's another design scheme for Rebel, who took <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-rebel-property-group-takes-woolloomooloo-precinct-to-nsw-government">concept plans to the NSW Gov late last year</a>.

The latest plans will be a mix of 167 build-to-sell apartments and 60 affordable apartments, with the affordable housing component representing 15 per cent of the project's gross floor area. The apartment mix includes 12 one-bedroom, 53 two-bedroom, 89 three-bedroom apartments and 13 penthouses, while the affordable housing component would comprise 42 one-bedroom and 18 two-bedroom apartments.

<img alt="Rebel" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3b3d4553-8a8c-4af5-aa8c-519ffb1e28c6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-12%20at%2011.20.12%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=_Yb6ibN7eDnOtQjCNDK2eviORa4qzgv." />

Rebel Property is seeking to take advantage of the NSW Government's infill affordable housing bonus provisions under the Housing SEPP, which provide additional floor space and height in exchange for the delivery of affordable housing for a minimum of 15 years. The planning pathway allows a 30 per cent increase in floor space ratio and building height where 15 per cent of the development is dedicated to affordable housing.

&nbsp;

At the centre of the development is a 1,356 sqm sunlit public park designed to become a new community gathering space at the gateway to Woolloomooloo. The park would be complemented by a network of pedestrian laneways connecting William Street with the surrounding streets, improving permeability through what is currently a largely impermeable block.

<img alt="Rebel" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="257af931-a393-4007-8c6d-7219796df58d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-12%20at%2011.20.51%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=KAHy94GrhaReFsWTGDKfy39EDJ8gEEv4" />

The design team says the public domain has been heavily influenced by the site's topography and Aboriginal cultural heritage, drawing on the escarpments, gullies and landscape characteristics that historically defined the area before urbanisation. The landscape design has been developed in partnership with First Nations consultancy Bangawarra.

The project would be delivered across four separate buildings. The William Street East and William Street West buildings, designed by fjcstudio, would contain the majority of the apartments. Melbourne-based Studio Bright has designed the Forbes Street building, while Tribe Studio Architects is responsible for the Dowling Street building.

Rebel had secured approval for the concept plans late last year.

Joel Robinson

First look: HSN, Rebel, advances Woolloomooloo precinct plans

A locally heritage-listed furniture showroom on Water Street is set to become the centrepiece of a new mixed-use residential development as local developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/keylin-group">Keylin</a> seeks approval for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/lotus-on-water-street-290-water-street-fortitude-valley-qld-4006">Lotus on Water Street</a>, a 15-storey project on the Fortitude Valley side of Spring Hill.

The proposal spans 290 Water Street and 137-141 Warry Street, combining several properties into a 2,869 sqm site that sits between Fortitude Valley, Spring Hill and the rapidly evolving Victoria Park precinct. Keylin's plans would deliver 132 apartments alongside new retail, hospitality and commercial space, while retaining and repurposing the historic Brunswick Home Furnishers Showroom that fronts Water Street.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/jackson-teece">Jackson Teece</a>, Lotus on Water Street comprises a 12-storey residential tower rising above a three-storey podium and communal rooftop terrace. The development includes 76 apartments classified as multiple dwellings and a further 56 units proposed as short-term accommodation, designed to be flexibly used as either accommodation or permanent residences. The apartment mix comprises six one-bedroom, 54 two-bedroom and 16 three-bedroom homes.

<img alt="First look: Keylin unveils heritage-led Lotus on Water Street tower in Fortitude Valley" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9822bb79-6c49-49c9-95ba-319e8c8d81c3" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/fortitude%20valley%20front.png?VersionId=ioW8zbN4UVebbLetTFuv92t.HkdgfR5e" />

Residents would have access to an extensive rooftop recreation level spanning more than 1,200 sqm of communal open space. Plans include a pool, gym, sauna, infrared sauna, yoga area, library, private dining room, barbecue facilities and landscaped entertainment spaces, making the rooftop the project's largest shared amenity offering.

At street level, the proposal focuses on the adaptive reuse of the heritage buildings along Water Street, where 518 sqm of retail and commercial space is planned across shop, office and food and drink outlet uses. A permeable residential lobby would be positioned between the retained heritage buildings, creating a pedestrian connection between the historic streetscape and the new tower behind.

<img alt="First look: Keylin unveils heritage-led Lotus on Water Street tower in Fortitude Valley" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="269cf3e0-7d13-48bf-a318-05a00deb5c10" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/fortitude%20valley%20podium.png?VersionId=DLXmTCLsp6GOcLpQ0h.0z7wKCw59EhN_" />

The heritage retention strategy is central to the scheme. The development application notes that the Brunswick Home Furnishers Showroom and adjoining heritage buildings will remain, with only non-significant structures on the site earmarked for removal under a previously issued Heritage Exemption Certificate. Levels one and two of the new podium are recessed behind the heritage façades to maintain their prominence within the streetscape.

Jackson Teece has drawn inspiration from the site's manufacturing history when designing the podium. The planning documents state that the façade incorporates perforated metal screening that references the woven and rattan furniture historically produced on the site. Cascading and climbing plants are integrated throughout the podium to soften the building's presentation and screen parking levels behind. The landscape strategy also informs the project's name, Lotus on Water Street, drawing on the historic Spring Hollow waterholes that once ran through Spring Hill and the blue water lilies associated with Meeanjin, Brisbane's traditional name.

The proposal also incorporates the neighbouring property at 141 Warry Street, currently occupied by a healthcare service. The existing building would remain, with nine dedicated parking spaces allocated within the new development to support its ongoing operation. In total, Lotus on Water Street proposes 117 car spaces, including 110 resident spaces and seven visitor bays, alongside 100 bicycle spaces.

<img alt="First look: Keylin unveils heritage-led Lotus on Water Street tower in Fortitude Valley" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="70cf07bc-4fd8-4e70-92dd-be8b21c4e4f0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/fortitude%20valley%20site.png?VersionId=txlxrJImM0Sm_vTzHVKh5DDUkyL_CiiA" />

The site sits within the Spring Hill East Precinct of the Spring Hill Neighbourhood Plan and is positioned around 650 metres from both Fortitude Valley Station and Exhibition Station. It is also within walking distance of the King Street precinct, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Herston Quarter and Victoria Park, which is earmarked to become a major venue precinct ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Planning documents describe the location as a key gateway between Spring Hill and Fortitude Valley and highlight the area's increasing importance as new transport infrastructure and Olympic-related investment reshape Brisbane's inner north. The development team argues the project will contribute additional housing supply while activating a section of Water Street that has historically received less investment than other parts of the Valley.

Keylin has become increasingly active across Brisbane and southeast Queensland, assembling sites in strategic inner-city locations. They are currently selling and delivering <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/oria-spring-hill-447-gregory-terrace-spring-hill-qld-4000">Oria Spring Hill</a>, just over 140 apartments due for completion in 2027.

Keylin plans heritage-led Lotus on Water Street apartment development in Fortitude Valley

Roseville is poised for a wave of new apartment development following the NSW Government's rezoning of land around Roseville Station under its Transport Oriented Development program.

The new planning controls have unlocked significant development potential within walking distance of the station, with a number of sites expected to be amalgamated and redeveloped in the coming years as developers seek to take advantage of the increased density allowances.

One of the more restrained developments in the precinct, and set among the first to be delivered having commenced well before the recent changes, is Hyecorp's Juliet. The boutique apartment project is already well under construction and remains on track to welcome residents by the end of the year, offering a markedly different proposition to many of the larger-scale developments now likely to emerge across the suburb.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7395 project_image_fid=278194]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/juliet-roseville-64-pacific-highway-roseville-nsw-2069">Juliet</a> will comprise just&nbsp;34 one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments opposite Roseville Station. For Hyecorp, which has delivered projects across Sydney's Lower North Shore for more than three decades, Roseville presented a rare opportunity to address a growing gap in the market.

"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/roseville-nsw-2069">Roseville</a> has long been one of the North Shore's most tightly held and desirable suburbs, offering a unique combination of village charm, established greenery, excellent transport connections, and proximity to some of Sydney's best schools and lifestyle amenities," Hyecorp said.

"We recognised a growing demand from local homeowners seeking to downsize without leaving the community they have built their lives around. The location presented a rare opportunity to create homes that cater specifically to that buyer profile."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7395 project_image_fid=278196]

The six-level development has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/pbd-architects">PBD Architects</a> as a collection of residences that feel more like homes than apartments. The brief centred generous floorplans, abundant natural light, quality finishes, and strong connections to outdoor space.

PBD Architects drew inspiration from Roseville's established garden suburb character, creating a building that sits comfortably within its surroundings rather than dominating them. The architecture incorporates natural materials, soft forms, layered landscaping, expansive balconies, and generous setbacks to strengthen the connection between residents and the suburb's leafy environment.

"The focus was on designing spacious, house-like residences for discerning owner-occupiers and downsizers who wanted to remain on the North Shore without compromising on comfort, privacy, or design," PBD said.&nbsp;

"Every apartment was to feel considered, timeless, and highly functional."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7395 project_image_fid=278195]

Inside, residences feature engineered timber flooring, stone kitchen benchtops and splashbacks, integrated Fisher &amp; Paykel appliances, ducted air conditioning, and large outdoor entertaining areas designed to take advantage of district and treetop views.

Residents will also have access to a rooftop barbecue and lounge area, alongside practical amenities including parcel lockers, EV charging capability, bicycle storage, a dog wash bay, and a basement car wash facility.

The majority of purchasers so far have been local owner-occupiers from Roseville, Lindfield, Chatswood, Killara, and the broader Upper North Shore, many of whom are transitioning from larger family homes.

"Buyers are looking for spacious, house-like apartments that allow them to downsize without feeling like they are sacrificing comfort or functionality," Hyecorp noted.

"They value large kitchens, generous living areas, ample storage, quality finishes, secure parking, lift access, and low-maintenance living."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7395 project_image_fid=278204]

Juliet sits directly opposite Roseville Train Station and within walking distance of Roseville Village, while Chatswood's retail and dining precinct is only minutes away. The development is also surrounded by some of Sydney's most established schools, including Roseville College, Ravenswood, Pymble Ladies' College, and Knox Grammar, as well as nearby parklands and golf courses.

Juliet is currently more than 75 per cent sold ahead of its anticipated completion in late 2026.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=7395]

Juliet to sit quietly amid Roseville apartment boom

Sherpa Property Group has unveiled the third instalment of its Flourish series, securing full approval for the two-tower, $500 million Flourish Soleira development in Palm Beach.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-soleira-1150-1154-gold-coast-highway-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Soleira</a> will rise from a prominent site in the commercial heart of Palm Beach, the long-time home of Cash Converters and a range of local retailers.

The project will introduce a new retail and dining precinct at ground level, beneath 286 apartments.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=370959]

“We’re very committed to not only providing affordable residential offerings that are much needed in Palm Beach, but also delivering a vibrant new commercial heart that complements the extraordinary growth of the southern Gold Coast,” Sherpa Property Group founder Christie Leet said.

The development will sit under Sherpa's Flourish brand, which is aimed at providing a pathway into the beachside suburb for locals, first-home buyers and downsizers. In a move designed to assist first-home buyers entering the market, Sherpa has reserved all one and two-bedroom, one-bathroom apartments exclusively for eligible first-home buyers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=370964]

“Our vision through Flourish is to create a vibrant retail and lifestyle focal point within the Palm Beach centre zone, delivering thriving communities underpinned by lifestyle-rich locations,” Leet said.

“So far, Flourish has been an incredible success, and we hope to carry this momentum as we progress the next two Flourish projects in Palm Beach.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=371430]

Located across 1150-1164 Gold Coast Highway and 3 Sixth Avenue, the development will comprise two towers. The northern tower will deliver 154 apartments, while the southern tower will add a further 132 residences, helping address ongoing demand for new apartments in the tightly held coastal suburb.

Flourish Soleira will also feature the most extensive rooftop amenity offering ever delivered in Palm Beach.

The two towers will be connected by a skybridge, with residents gaining access to a rooftop recreation deck featuring a full-width swimming pool, hot and cold plunge pools, wellness spaces, a gymnasium, private dining facilities, massage treatment rooms, barbecue areas, a basketball court, golf simulator, indoor and outdoor dining spaces, sun lounges and extensive landscaping.

LPS Group is expected to start construction later this year.

Sherpa is already well advanced on construction of its debut Flourish project, Flourish Amargo, located just around the corner from Soleira. Meanwhile, Flourish Oasis, positioned opposite Amargo, recently commenced construction and has nearly sold out its collection of 47 apartments.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150017]

Sherpa unveils $500m mixed-use Palm Beach precinct, Flourish Soleira

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

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?

<html><body>
Buffett speaks
Warren Buffett has appeared on NBC this week advising investors to shun bonds and look towards equities at the present time. Buffett has warned that the present trend towards near-zero interest rates and the effective ‘printing’ of money in the US (known as quantitative easing) will hurt savers.
It seems hard to imagine how recently we were discussing the Dow Jones index trading around the 7,000 range and yet overnight the Dow burst on to unprecedented highs at above 15,050.
Economic data from the US and globally has not suggested such a dramatic improvement in the outlook, but with more money than ever seeking a home and some kind of reasonable return (which fixed-interest investments are not providing), money has fairly flooded into stocks.
A new era of lower interest rates
This week’s interest rate decision in Australia was to take the cash rate down to a new record low of just 2.75% and this presents Aussies with similar problems. Bond yields are low and savings accounts are not providing much of a worthwhile return either.
The likely consequence will be a flood of money into bank stocks, which pay handsome franked dividend returns, and capital city investment real estate.
And the rate cuts perhaps aren’t done yet. Westpac’s Bill Evans suggested this week that we may yet see three further cuts down to the previously unthinkable cash rate level of just 2.00%.
Property trends
There has been a long debate in Australia about this structural shift to lower inflation and lower interest rates.
Housing bears have been arguing for well over half a decade now that ‘what goes up, must come down’. That is, house prices in Australia had increased as interest rates fell, and therefore prices must revert to the mean and a lower house price to income ratio.
Steve Keen, who predicted a 40% crash, represented one of the more extreme views. To date, at least, he has been completely wrong as was evident from today’s chart pack release from the Reserve Bank.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/05/wargentmay10onethumb.gif" width="470" height="374" alt="wargentmay10onethumb">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NAlISD7UtfA/UYnMsgF51JI/AAAAAAAAJOc/KHHrlOncT1w/s1600/RBA+Dwelling+prices.gif" imageanchor="1"></a>
Source: RBA
What those of us of a more optimistic bent have long suggested, is that a shift to low interest rates would likely lead to greater household leverage and higher nominal prices. Although the lower rates could actually see repayments fall comparatively low.
This has been occurring as the cost of capital has fallen, and - even before yesterday's rate cut - repayments on new housing loans for a nationwide median-priced home have fallen close to around only a fifth of household disposable income.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/05/wargentmay10twothumb.gif" width="470" height="477" alt="wargentmay10twothumb">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-drwMxm7bq8k/UYnmCCLl93I/AAAAAAAAJPE/7gkZc16vJXA/s1600/Luci+Ellis.gif" imageanchor="1"></a>
Source: RBA
 
 
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
RP Data’s index shows that prices have increased in the past 12 months across all major capital cities, most notably in Sydney (+5.25%), Perth (+4.37%) and Melbourne (+3.36%).
<img src="/images/stories/2013/05/wargentmay10threethumb.gif" width="470" height="291" alt="wargentmay10threethumb">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7PWMZZGTwAg/UYnNUh01f3I/AAAAAAAAJOs/OIfLR8qV_O8/s1600/RP+Data+prices.jpg" imageanchor="1"></a>
Source: RP Data
A new focus on quality
After the financial crisis, we have now entered a new period of low global interest rates, and it will be a new era too for Australian property. Gone are the high levels of inflation and thus easy gains of yesteryear when the value of debt was inflated away. A focus on a diversified portfolio of shares in quality, profit-making companies and quality city property will be essential.
Asian influences
One of the reasons I have spent so much time in Singapore and Hong Kong over the last few years is to gain a glimpse into Australia’s future. If you think about it, if the populations are to grow as forecast in Sydney (to 7 million), Melbourne (to 10 million), Brisbane (to 4 million) and Perth (to over 3 million) then our cities of the future will look markedly different from those we know today.
Click to enlarge
<a href="/images/stories/2013/05/wargentmay10four.gif" rel="shadowbox" title="Click to enlarge"><img src="/images/stories/2013/05/wargentmay10fourthumb.gif"></a>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3T5DWfsbLqw/UYnNph1nFMI/AAAAAAAAJO0/VWbjffKq1d0/s1600/ABS+forecasts.jpg" imageanchor="1"></a>
Source: ABS
Regional prices are dead flat
For a long time, some promoters of property have been talking up regional centres and remote-location property, but as the RBA’s chart pack release above clearly shows, most regional property growth occurred long ago during the great increase of household leverage through to around half a decade ago.
There has been no growth at all for years now – prices are absolutely dead flat – a trend I expect to continue with relatively high nominal prices already in existence.
To some extent, Australian property owners have gotten off lightly. In regional markets across Britain prices have been slammed by more than a quarter of their value over. Those who more sensibly stuck to the populous south-east in and around London have seen a surge of foreign capital drive prices on to all-time highs.
This, I believe, is part of the new normal in real estate. Global investors looking for a safe haven for their money head to key capital city markets and drive prices up.
Much of the growth experienced in the last 12 months in Australia has been from a surge in new investors rather than from homebuyers.
Foreign investment capital
There has been much talk in recent times of a proliferation of Asian buyers bringing ‘hot money’ to Australia.
Foreign investment rules dictate that non-residents are permitted to buy residential property which is under construction (i.e. 'off the plan') or for re-development, or to purchase new dwellings which have not yet been sold.
Other purchases may require Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB) approval and <a href="https://www.firb.gov.au/content/_downloads/AFIP_2013.pdf" target="_blank">the FIRB states that</a> "foreign investors cannot buy established dwellings as investment properties or as homes" save for certain exceptions, but there are question marks as to whether these rules are enforced robustly (or even at all).
For such cashed-up buyers, the rumour mill suggests that attractive yields and to some extent even purchase price appear of little relevance as well-located investment properties are sought at almost any cost. This accords with what has been seen in London where residential property yields are generally poor yet foreign investors continue to drive prices higher.
Reliable statistics on whether foreign (i.e. non-resident) buyers are actually purchasing existing dwellings in Australia are by definition not available, but if you keep your ear to the ground and ask estate agents and buyers' advocates: “is it happening?” I suspect that the nudge might well be "yes, to some extent". 
Just as foreign investors in Britain only appear interested in London, it’s likely that equivalent investment here will be focussed on the major capitals. It’s one of the many reasons I’ve always argued that quality inner suburbs in those cities represent a far lower risk than regional or outer suburbs. When the next downturn comes, a relaxation of foreign investment rules may support key city prices, but those in the regions, where few investors venture, may suffer.
Pete Wargent holds a range of finance and property qualifications and is the author of <a target="_blank" href="https://petewargent.blogspot.com.au/" rel="nofollow">Get a Financial Grip – a simple plan for financial fr</a><a target="_blank" href="https://petewargent.blogspot.com.au/" rel="nofollow">eedom.</a>
 
 
 
</body></html>

pwargent-M4siyDbqQY

The low interest rate environment is a new era for Australian property: Pete Wargent

<html><body>
Brisbane tops the list of the highest average discount for homes at 8.7% and an average of 77 days on the market. 
However, Hobart houses spend the longest time on the market with an average of 83 days and a discount of 7.5%.
With units, Adelaide has the highest average discount of 8.1%, followed by Brisbane at 6.5% discount rate.
Darwin units spend the longest time on the market with an average of 101 days.
<img alt="rpdatavendordiscountingmay7one" src="/images/stories/2013/05/rpdatavendordiscountingmay7one.jpg" width="470" height="326">
<img alt="rpdatavendordiscountingmay7two" src="/images/stories/2013/05/rpdatavendordiscountingmay7two.jpg" width="370" height="332">
</body></html>

ntrotman-Et3xWpamVh

Brisbane vendors must discount the most at 8.7%: RP Data

<html><body>
Award-winning architect Neil de la Coeur of Bird de la Coeur Architects will do a meet and greet this Saturday, May 11, 2013 in South Yarra. 
Bird de la Coeur Architects are responsible for the design of South Yarra’s Yarra House, a 25-level complex featuring 114 apartments.
De La Coeur will be at shop 4 Yarra Lane, South Yarra on May 11 from 12pm to 2pm.
Located on Yarra Street, <a target="_blank" href="https://yarrahouse.com/">Yarra House</a> is developed by Michael L Yates &amp; Co and features 38 one-bedroom apartments and 76 two-bedroom apartments.
<img height="247" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/05/yarrahousemay10one.jpg" alt="yarrahousemay10one">
Buyers have the choice to acquire two apartments on the same floor and turn them into a three-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment ranging in size from 142 square metres to 148 square metres.
One-bedroom apartments start from $495,000 and have an internal area of 47 square metres.
Two-bedroom apartments start from $595,000 and range in size from 57 square metres to 91 square metres.
Three-bedroom apartments start from $1,595,000.
Yarra House will have interior designs by Hassel and feature a rooftop deck with a pool, gym and steam room.
</body></html>

Meet and greet in South Yarra with Yarra House's architect Neil de la Coeur

<html><body>
Property taxes remain a staple income earner for the federal and state and local government coffers where, despite a weak property market across Australia during the 2011-2012 financial year period, tax revenue collected by government continued to rise.
Analysis by RP Data on the amount of tax income derived from property to bolster state and local government revenue during the 2011/12 financial year revealed that a whopping $33.515 billion was earned from this source.
<img alt="kushermay10onethumb" src="/images/stories/2013/05/kushermay10onethumb.gif" width="470" height="244">
Over the year, this equated to 46% of all taxation revenue for state and local governments and while down from 47.2% over the 2010/11 financial year, the total amount of property-related taxes rose by 0.9% over the financial year.
Although we saw an increase in tax revenue, it is the smallest annual change in revenue since revenue fell -10.4% over the 2008/09 financial year.
<img alt="kushermay10twothumb" src="/images/stories/2013/05/kushermay10twothumb.gif" width="470" height="367">
Our data shows that the total value of dwelling sales across the country fell by -6.1% over the financial year and despite this, property taxes increased.
To add to this, the combined capital city home values fell by -3.6% over the year and the annual number of home sales across the country was -6.1% lower.
Given these figures, it is clear there was only one way state and local governments could increase their tax revenue, and that was by raising tax rates on property.
Looking at where property taxes are earned by category over the 2011/12 financial year, the results show that the two largest sources of revenue are municipal rates (39.6%) and stamp duties on conveyances (34.8%).
 
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
<img alt="kushermay10threethumb" src="/images/stories/2013/05/kushermay10threethumb.gif" width="470" height="201">
These two categories accounted for almost 75% of all property-related taxes collected. If land tax revenue is then added, these three categories account for 92.6% of all property-related tax revenue.
Over the 2011/12 financial year, municipal rates revenue rose by 6.1% and land tax revenue rose by 1.6%, while stamp duty revenue fell by -4.7%.
While there have been many calls to dump stamp duty and change it to a broad-based land tax, it appears that neither side of politics is seriously considering the change which would most likely be fairly unpopular with voters.
With home values and transactions falling during the 2011-2012 financial year, it is clear that revenue from stamp duty has received the full brunt of the slowdown.
It is interesting to note that stamp duty revenue over the 2011/12 financial year was -18.4% lower than the peak recorded in 2007/08 - clearly highlighting the impact of reduced sales volumes on this important government revenue stream.
<img alt="kushermay10fourthumb" src="/images/stories/2013/05/kushermay10fourthumb.gif" width="470" height="251">
Interestingly, excluding Queensland and Western Australia, stamp duty revenue actually fell across each state over the 2011/12 financial year.
In Queensland, the stamp duty collection rose by 4.7% and in Western Australia it increased by 29%.
(Note: over the year, the number of house and unit sales increased by 4.0% in Queensland and by 10.9% in Western Australia.)
Municipal rates, which rose by 6.1% across every state and territory during the 2011-2012 financial year, are the largest source of taxation revenue for states and local governments.
The revenue derived from rates is increased through either lifting the amount of rates collected or by the developmentof new properties therefore increasing the ratepayer base.
Land tax is recorded as the third largest source of revenue and it increased by 1.6% at a national level over the year.
Land tax rose over the year in each state except for Queensland where it fell by -2.8%.
Property tax is clearly the most important source of revenue for state and local governments across the country and it is therefore important for governments to find ways to grow revenue over time or alternatively, look for other ways to create it.
Since the end of the last financial year, we have seen an increase in sales activity across the national housing market.
As a result, stamp duty revenue is likely to increase over the next financial year however, any increase is unlikely to be significant.
Overall we would expect that at a national level property-related tax revenue will increase over the 2012/13 financial year however, the rate of growth is once again likely to be quite low.
Cameron Kusher is senior research analyst at <a href="https://www.myrp.com.au/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">RP Data</a>.
 
 
 
</body></html>

ckusher-ujnxiKuFQs

Property taxes remain a strong earner for governments: Cameron Kusher

<html><body>
I recently read an article suggesting that financial planners often recommend that, based on current average annual returns, a couple would need close to $1 million in superannuation when they retire to live modestly.
In my opinion that would only give them a very modest lifestyle since they would, in general, live off the $40,000 or so interest they receive on this, or on dividends from the shares in the super fund.
Apparently, a single person would need about $800,000, once again to live modestly.
By the way; I think you will need much, much more than this to fund a comfortable retirement.
Either way, this means millions of Australians will struggle in retirement because only 10% of Australians have more than $100,000 in their super accounts. 
A report from last year by the Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia says:
“On the basis of the current average superannuation balance and average income of those aged 35 to 44 and the assumption of only compulsory superannuation contributions being made, the average retirement superannuation payout at age 60 for a male currently aged 35 to 44 would be $183,000, while for a female it would only be $93,000.”
That’s scary stuff…  
Most Gen X-ers will fall far short of being able to retire on their superannuation.  
Little wonder that more and more Australians are looking at taking control of their financial future and setting up self-managed super funds (SMSF).  
With 5.3 million Baby Boomers transitioning into retirement over the next 15 years or so, I see properties bought in a SMSF as a major driver of property values over the next decade.
How much super is enough? 
So, the big question is how much money do you really need for your retirement?
Well, lifestyle is a very personal thing – luxury living for one person is a modest existence for someone else.
While you’re in your working years, choosing a lifestyle is simple – most of us live the life we can afford. If we want a fancier lifestyle, we need to earn more, win the lottery, marry someone rich or inherit money from a rich relative.
However, if you want a comfortable life in retirement, then you better start working on your financial independence now. Super alone is unlikely to get you there, but growing a substantial property portfolio just may.
The 4-step formula to financial independence
Here are four timeless rules for achieving financial freedom. Please don’t dismiss them because they sound so simple:
1. Spend less than you earn
This maxim may seem obvious, but many people have difficulty following it. If you're spending more than you earn, you will never become financially independent. You will be paying money to others for the rest of your life. The earlier you start living by this rule, the better. It is never too late to start.
2. Invest the difference wisely 
It may surprise you, but the average Australian earning between $50,000 and $60,000 a year for 40 years will earn somewhere between $2-3 million during their working life. Yet most of them will retire poor. Clearly, the level of your income has no bearing on the level of wealth you achieve; what is critical is the amount you save and invest wisely.
3. Reinvest your investment income so you get compounding growth
As you are beginning to understand, you will never become financially independent on your earnings alone. You need to keep reinvesting. In fact, by the time you become financially free almost all your assets will have come from compounding capital growth, not from your income, your savings or your rent.
4. Keep doing steps 1 and 2 until your asset base reaches a critical mass so that you have the cash machine that gives you the income you desire.
If you’ve been following my blogs you’d know I advocate growing a multi-million dollar property portfolio as your cash machine. In fact, I’ve written a best selling book on that topic, <a href="https://www.thebookonpropertyinvestment.com/">How to Grow a Multi-million Dollar Property Portfolio</a>. This book is about helping you build your own cash machine.
So how many properties do you need to retire? 
Do you know? Well, it’s a trick question.
It’s not really how many properties you own that’s important. I’d rather own one Westfield shopping centre than 35 small regional properties.
In other words, what’s really important is the size of the asset base you build – the size of your cash machine. And this probably needs to be a lot bigger than you think.
Over the last few years, more and more property investors are considering setting up a self-managed superannuation fund (SMSF) as a vehicle to buy their properties and increase their asset base.
So what are the main advantages and disadvantages of taking this tack when it comes to building your own retirement nest egg?
The good
&gt; Control – You have control over your SMSF rather than entrusting your future financial wellbeing to a complete stranger, who will take your hard-earned cash and invest it in shares and managed funds that may or may not perform.  
&gt; Leverage – You can make the money in your SMSF work harder by using it as a deposit and borrowing to buy investment properties that grow in value.  
&gt;Tax savings – In the past, those who bought a property in their fund until they retired were exempt from paying either capital gains tax if you sell the investment, or income tax on any rental income should you decide to hang onto it. Before they retired, any capital gains or rental income generated by your SMSF was taxed at a rate of 15% and 10% Capital Gains Tax was applicable if they sold the property after holding on to it for over a year.
Recent changes to the tax law means that in the future these concessional tax rates will change, but owning property in super may still be tax effective for you.  
&gt;You will have a diversified super portfolio that is not reliant on just one investment vehicle, meaning you will have better financial security for the future.  
The bad
&gt;The cost! This usually involves thousands of dollars in establishment costs and sometimes there will be higher fees involved in borrowing to buy property through your SMSF.  
&gt;The confusion – There’s no denying that managing your own super fund can be a minefield of complicated rules and regulations. Get something wrong and you could end up paying hefty penalties. Of course, you can pay a professional to manage it on your behalf and this is something I would strongly advise anyone with a SMSF to do – whether they’re buying real estate or not!  
&gt;You have to have the cash to do it. This is not a strategy for someone with a small amount of cash in his or her super fund. Basically, unless you have over $150,000 of available funds in your SMSF and are still contributing to your SMSF, the banks may not be willing to lend money for you to buy property in your SMSF.
If you’re at all concerned about financial independence in retirement, put some plans in place, review your finances, do something now and don’t leave it until it’s too late.
Be careful  
Of course, before you go down the route of setting up your own SMSF, it is critical to seek independent advice from a properly qualified financial planner to ensure that it is appropriate for your circumstances, and that you set up things correctly and don’t fall foul of the tax man.  
Michael Yardney is a director of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.metropole.com.au/">Metropole Property Strategists</a> who create wealth for their clients through independent, unbiased property advice and advocacy. Subscribe to his <a target="_blank" href="https://propertyupdate.com.au/category/property-investment/">Property Update</a> blog.
</body></html>

myardney-DFoGhGbSJX

Weighing the pros and cons of SMSFs as you plan for retirement: Michael Yardney

<html><body>
RP Data has updated the auction cleareance rates for the week ending May 5.
There were 1,749 capital city auctions, up from 1,658 the previous week, according to RP Data.
The combined capital city auction clearance rate was recorded at 67.7%  in the week to May 5, up from 64.5% over the previous week.
Click to enlarge
<a title="Click to enlarge" href="/images/stories/2013/05/rpdataauctionsmay9one.gif" rel="shadowbox"><img src="/images/stories/2013/05/rpdataauctionsmay9onethumb.gif"></a>
<a href="/news">The initial Sunday auction tally sat at 67.3% over the week ending Sunday May 5</a>.
In Melbourne, Australia’s largest auction market, the initial clearance rate was given as 70.4% this week. And it remained there after later results were included.
In Sydney, clearance rates actually finished at 72.7% having had a preliminary 72.4% for the week ending May 5.
</body></html>

po-LsXgBTHBmX

Sydney and Melbourne weekly auction success rates sit at 70%-plus: RP Data

<html><body>
The Wenona School has purchased the Independent Theatre, at 269 Miller Street, North Sydney, from the Australian Elizabethan Theatre Trust for $4.97 million.
"This beautiful heritage building, adjacent to our school, has served as a venue for many Wenona drama performances, HSC music recitals, presentations and other functions, throughout its long history," said the Wenona principal Dr Briony Scott.
"Some of our independent school’s first students in 1886 may well have trod parts of the current building which date from the same year, when it was built as a cable tram terminus and depot," she said.
The Edwardian theatre, originally named the North Sydney Coliseum, opened in January 1911, and from 1939 to 1977 was home to the grand dame of Australian theatre, the late Doris Fitton. It has been used as a boxing hall, a vaudeville hall, car service depot and even an ammunition store.
It now has a recently refurbished 300 seat two-tiered auditorium and reception foyer on the 916 square metre land holding. The artists who have current booking with the Independent Theatre throughout 2013 will continue to perform.
The sale followed an apporach by the AETT to Wenona, the AETT chairman, Lloyd Waddy confirmed. Waddy thanked the Vincent Fairfax Family Foundation and previous donors to the Seaborn Broughton and Walford Foundation, and The Friends of the Independent.
The AETT bought the theatre in 2004 for a second time from a group of philanthropists headed by Dr Rodney Seaborn who had saved the venue when purchasing the Independent Theatre at North Sydney for $600,000 in 1993 after the financial collapse of the Elizabethan Theatre Trust which had bought it in 1988 for $450,000, with plans to restore it.
Lloyd Waddy said he had devoted over a third of his life to its preservation and enhancement.
"Since 2000 the AETT have awarded over $1 million in 100 scholarships to help them achieve excellence in their music," he said.
"We intend to continue that mission, including assisting such use of the Independent to the extent it might be available," he added.
The building will provide much-needed presentation and performance spaces for Wenona’s students.
Wenona has been an independent, non-denominational day and boarding school since 1886.
</body></html>

jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Wenona School buys the Miller Street Independent Theatre, North Sydney from the Australian Elizabethan Theatre Trust

<html><body>
Ori Allon, who has previously sold businesses to both Google and Twitter, has launched his latest venture, Urban Compass, after tying up $8 million in investment capital.
Allon (picture below) was born in Israel and holds US citizenship but is also a naturalised Australian, after moving to Melbourne in 2002 to study at Monash University. He then moved on to the University of NSW in Sydney, where he completed his PhD in 2009.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/05/oriallonmay9one.jpg" width="400" height="316" alt="oriallonmay9one">
He built the Orion search engine, which he sold to Google, before creating Julpan, which analyses information shared on social media sites. Julpan was sold to Twitter in 2011, with Allon moving to New York to join Twitter’s team.
Allon is now onto his third notable venture, called Urban Compass. It was, rather grandly, officially launched by New York mayor Michael Bloomberg.
Allon has secured $8 million from a clutch of investors, which he has used to employ a relatively large workforce of 63 people, including several ex-Twitter employees.
“I could do another start-up, build something very specific, and sell it to a larger company,” Allon told The Verge last year. “But I’ve done that already, you know. It’s not about the money. I’m ready for a different challenge. I want to build something really, really big.”
Urban Compass is aiming to help people negotiate the notoriously difficult New York property market. The business hopes to crack the Big Apple before moving onto other markets.
The web app allows apartment-seekers to search for property based on location, price and size, with the aid of a mapping tool. Users can negotiate rents and agreements with real estate agents through Urban Compass, with Allon aiming to eventually handle tenant rental payments on the platform.
In return for this, Urban Compass will collect a broker’s fee, which is designed to be much less than a standard monthly rental fee.
On its site’s blog, Urban Compass states: “Your neighbourhood is at the centre of your local world, linking you to a community of people and a network of businesses. We started Urban Compass to help you connect with the world around you, starting with your neighbourhood.”
“We believe some of the most meaningful local insight comes from on-the-ground knowledge, and we are merging technology with real-world expertise to create the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.urbancompass.com/network">Urban Compass Network</a>. This platform will help you connect with your local community: the people and businesses that make a neighbourhood feel like home.”
This article originally appeared on <a target="_blank" href="https://www.startupsmart.com.au/">StartupSmart</a>.
</body></html>

omilman-K9ivm2FW5a

Ori Allon launches Urban Compass property portal app with New York focus

<html><body>
Did city prices stagnate in the March quarter? Or did they show moderate growth? Or perhaps they rose strongly.
All three interpretations are possible, depending on which information source you choose to highlight.
The publication this week of the house price indexes from the ABS highlight how important it is for reporters to do more than simply parrot the figures from that single source, with their own inexpert interpretation.
Data released earlier from other sources contradict those interpretations.
According to the ABS, seven of the eight capital cities now have house price levels higher than a year ago. The weighted average of the eight state and territory capitals was an annual rise of 2.6%.
Darwin (up 8%) and Perth (up 6%) once again were the leading cities for price performance. Sydney was up 3.6%, while Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Canberra all recorded an annual increase in the 1% to 1.5% range.
Hobart, down 2%, was the only capital city with pricing levels lower than a year earlier.
Most reporters chose not to focus on that. They recorded that the ABS indexes showed only moderate growth in the March quarter, with a weighted average rise of just 0.1%.
In most of the capital cities, the movement in their indexes amounted, essentially, to no change. Only Darwin (up 1.9%) and Perth (up 1.2%) recorded meaningful changes, according to these figures.  
That has led to headlines which proclaim that “the Australian property market” has stagnated. Taken in isolation, the ABS March quarter figures give that impression.  
But Australian Property Monitors reported a 1.7% rise in the March quarter, while RP Data recorded a quarterly rise of 2.8%. The APM data suggests a moderate rise and RP Data a strong increase, given that it suggests a double-digit annual growth rate if the March quarter performance continues.  
The ABS says Melbourne prices barely moved in the March quarter (up 0.2%). APM said they rose a nation-leading 3.6%, RP Data reported a rise of 2.5%, while the ever-bullish Real Estate Institute of Victoria claimed a 5.1% quarterly rise in Melbourne’s median house price.  
Who do we believe?  
The result, once again, is confusion and misinformation for real estate consumers. Media is awash for conflicting figures, each treated in isolation and each given its own erroneous analysis, with economists who should know better weighing in with naive commentary.
It highlights, once again, how important it is for consumers to consult multiple information sources to get a true picture of what’s happening in real estate markets. They’re unlikely to find any quality analysis in the media.
Terry Ryder is the founder of <a href="https://www.hotspotting.com.au/" target="_blank">hotspotting.com.au</a>
</body></html>

terryryder-YECXbqmri2

Conflicting property market performance figures lead to consumer confusion: Terry Ryder

<html><body>
A one-bedroom apartment in Ascot Vale was recorded as the cheapest auction sale in Victoria over the last weekend, selling for $245,000, according to Australian Property Monitors (APM).
Located at <a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-ascot+vale-113554255">5/230 Ascot Vale Road</a>, the apartment (pictured below) sold at auction on May 4 through Jim Michaels of Barry Plant Moonee Valley.
<img alt="ascotvalemay9one" height="345" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/05/ascotvalemay9one.jpg">
The unit was listed for rent in October last year with a $240 weekly asking rent, according to RP Data records.
Based on this figure, the price reflected a rental yield of 5.09%, slightly higher than the average rental yield for units in Ascot Vale which currently stands at 4.4%.
The unit had a $145 weekly asking rent in 2005. The asking rent for the unit was $250 a week in 2010.
According to the <a target="_blank" href="/news">latest report by RP Data</a>, the median sale price for units in Ascot Vale is $410,000, down 13% on last year. The average discount required to sell a unit is 10.5%, while private treaty sales average 84 days on market. 
Other one-bedroom apartments for sale in Ascot Vale include: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-ascot+vale-113233403">4/242 Union Road</a> (pictured below), listed for $340,000 by Weda Property Essendon.
<img alt="ascotvalemay9two" height="351" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/05/ascotvalemay9two.jpg">
</body></html>

Latest Buying Insights

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

Editor's Picks

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

Latest Buying Insights

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

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News