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?

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Sometimes the truth hurts and the message in the latest CEO Pulse sent a very clear message to the Gillard government.
<a title="CEO Pulse: CEOs feel better now" href="https://www.businessspectator.com.au/article/2013/4/16/economy/ceo-pulse-ceos-feel-better-now" target="_blank" style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; border: 0px; outline-width: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: #003d7d; text-decoration: none;">CEO Pulse: CEOs feel better now</a> which just so happens to be the most positive for two years – that’s because we are closing in on an election and a change of government.
“CEOs are fed up with Treasurer Wayne Swan and the government, but that’s no surprise, and they think Treasury usually gets its forecasts wrong, which it does, but nevertheless Australia’s bosses are feeling better about their own businesses and the economy than they have since this time in 2011.”
“60% expect to increase sales over the next twelve months, up from 52% three months ago, and 53% expect to increase profit, up from 48%. In the second half of last year, most CEOs thought their profit would fall in 2013, which was a remarkable statistic.”
“Two thirds of CEOs say they aren’t delaying any capital expenditure decisions until after either the federal budget or the election in September (18% said they were waiting ‘til after the election), but unsurprisingly, the overwhelming majority (86%) said a Coalition victory would be the best for the country and for their business.”
The declines across Australia continue for first-home buyers with loan approvals falling 1.5% in February making up just 14.4% of the overall market. I have never been a supporter of artificially inseminating property markets by throwing around free money. It should be noted that when vacancy rates are at all-time lows this further complicates the issue given property rents are climbing much higher than property values. <a title="Rental growth to keep pace with house price growth over the next two years led by WA: NAB survey" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/landlords/rental-growth-to-keep-pace-with-house-price-growth-over-next-two-years-led-by-wa-nab-survey/2013041460347" target="_blank">Rental growth to keep pace with house price growth over the next two years led by WA: NAB survey</a> – Rents are forecast to rise 3.6% over the next two years.
<p style="padding: 0px 0px 24px; margin: 0px; border: 0px; outline-width: 0px; font-family: Georgia, Palatino, 'Palatino Linotype', Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: #707070; line-height: 24px; font-size: 15px !important;"><img alt="simeonapril23onethumb" height="324" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/04/simeonapril23onethumb.gif">
NSW is a major casualty after 15 years of an ineffective and hopeless government where today <a title="QLD and WA attracting New South Welshmen in droves: RP Data." href="/news" target="_blank">QLD and WA attracting New South Welshmen in droves: RP Data.</a> On a state-by-state basis population growth has been the strongest in absolute terms within Victoria (94,837), Queensland (91,389), New South Wales (86,033) and Western Australia (81,694). It is interesting to note that New South Wales and Western Australia both have the highest rentals. These four states account for 92.5% of total population growth over the 12 months to September 2012.
As a result 18,448 more residents have left New South Wales than arrived over the year. This should and must be a major concern for the NSW government given history clearly shows that when a family moves seldom do they return – given the decision is all about lifestyle.
<p style="padding: 0px 0px 24px; margin: 0px; border: 0px; outline-width: 0px; font-family: Georgia, Palatino, 'Palatino Linotype', Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: #707070; line-height: 24px; font-size: 15px !important;"><img alt="simeonapril23twothumb" height="319" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/04/simeonapril23twothumb.gif">
We are one month away from the federal government delivering its final budget deficit. Massive problems with the collapse of the price of carbon in Europe which sits at around $3.35 a tonne and Australia’s price is fixed at $23.00 per tonne until 2015. Opposition treasurer commented, “If the European price today is to be applied to the budget there would be a budget hole of at least $7 billion in just one year.”
Last week we learnt the “World’s Greatest Treasurer” Wayne Swan is now refusing to pay the $725 million collected as flood recovery monies even though it appeared in the forward estimates. This is the money that the Gillard government imposed (otherwise known as a levy) on Australian taxpayers. This highlights how bad the Gillard government’s finances are despite constant reassurances – remember the 2012/13 budget was a non-negotiable return to surplus!
Out of interest from 2002 – 2007 the Howard government spent $978 billion from revenues of $1.067 trillion – from 2007 – 2012 the Gillard government spent $1.729 trillion from $1.543 trillion in receipts.
The upcoming Fudge – it will fascinating.
Robert Simeon is a director of <a title="RWM" href="https://www.rwm.com.au/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Richardson  Wrench Mosman and Neutral Bay </a>and has been selling residential real estate in Sydney since 1985. He has also been writing real estate blog <a title="Virtual Realty News" href="https://www.rwm.com.au/news/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Virtual Realty News</a> since 2000. The RWM real estate model has sold in excess of $1 billion in database sales globally. 
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robertsimeon-hRNTwJyXkQ

Upcoming election boosts CEO confidence as FHBs continue to struggle: Robert Simeon

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A former chief executive of Tourism Australia, John Morse, secured $1.2 million for his Annandale warehouse abode following its recent auction marketing campaign through Bresic Whitney agent Dominic Kuneman.
Set on a 241-square-metre Nelson Street block, <a href="https://www.bresicwhitney.com.au/real-estate/id/property/10592/annandale/15-nelson-street/?searchsubtype=address&amp;searchType=sale" target="_blank">the converted warehouse</a> had been tipped to fetch more than $1.1 million.
Morse paid $981,000 in 2009 and then re-roofed the warehouse living space. The interiors of the warehouse were also updated.
Morse now works in the Aboriginal arts industry being awarded an Order of Australia in 2003 for services to tourism and the development of indigenous tourism, he manages the Indigenous Tourism Masterplan in Arnhem Land.
The property previously traded at $850,000 in 2005 and $352,000 in 1997.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Former Tourism Australia chief John Morse sells Annandale warehouse

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Australand’s residential division had an “encouraging” start to 2013 with “solid sales activity” recorded over the first three months of the year, managing director Bob Johnston told shareholders at yesterday’s annual general meeting.
Johnston said Australand has built on its “strong contracts on hand position at the start of the year” to average around 190 sales per month for the January quarter.
“This is an encouraging start to the year and puts us in a good position to achieve our full year targets,” he said.
Australand has one of the biggest residential lot portfolios in the country with 20,400 lots under management with an estimated end value of $8 billion.
Johnston highlighted that “importantly” most of its residential projects (master planned communities and inner city apartment developments) are zoned and weighted to the biggest housing markets of Sydney and Melbourne.
“We see our ability to create and deliver new product at our below the median price in each of our markets as a key competitive advantage.
“This is particularly important as homebuyers are confronted with a lack of new, affordable housing options,” he said.
Johnston added that the residential sector continued to be a “deep and undersupplied market” noting that affordability had improved “significantly” with the fall in mortgage rates.
Projects selling well in 2013, Johnston said, were its medium density “Local” project in Carlton, in inner Melbourne which will deliver 675 apartments when completed and its <a href="https://residential.australand.com.au/land/nsw/sutherland-shire/greenhills-beach#forsale" target="_blank">Greenhills Beach master planned development</a> (pictured below) in Cronulla, in Sutherland Shire, Sydney.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/stories/2013/04/greenhillsapril23one.jpg" alt="greenhillsapril23one" width="470" height="279">
Local delivered 97 sales over 2012 at an average price point of $500,000 with a further 89 sales recorded at year end.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/stories/2013/04/greenhillsapril23two.jpg" alt="greenhillsapril23two" width="470" height="301">
Greenhills Beach managed 136 lots sales in 2012 at an average price of $830,000 and “has continued to deliver solid sales in the first quarter of 2013”.
Other projects continuing to sell well include Hamilton Reach on the Brisbane River and Cockburn Central, 20 kilometres south of the Perth CBD.
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lschlesinger-FZcF9M3vE6

Greenhills Beach helps Australand report “solid” residential sales activity in 2013 first quarter

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Investors who purchased a house in the east Melbourne suburb of Box Hill based on its inclusion in last year’s Hot 100 list published by Australian Property Investor (API) magazine are unlikely to be a happy bunch.
As API published its flagship 2013 Hot 100 list this month, Property Observer analysed the performance of all 100 suburbs that made it on to last year’s list.
We found that Box Hill was the poorest performing detached housing market on last year’s list, which included suburbs that were expected to show growth over the following 12 months and beyond.
But rather than rise as expected, Box Hill's median house price has fallen 19% between publication of the 2012 and 2013 Hot 100 reports. And it fails to make a re-appearance on the latest list of hotspots.
Of the 90 hot spot suburbs from 2012 where comparison were possible, 25 locations recorded declined of 1% or more over the year, 19 locations treaded water, 34 recorded gains of between 1% and 10% in their median house prices and 12 managed gains of more than 10%. 
According to Australian Property Monitors (APM) data published by API Magazine, Box Hill recorded a median house price of $545,000 based on sales of 111 houses over the 12 months to January 2013.
This compares with a median price of $748,000 recorded from 101 sales for the 12 months to December 2011.
Box Hill was picked last year because of its good local council,  good location – just 13 kilometres east of the Melbourne CBD – and because of its status as one of Melbourne’s biggest transport interchanges “expected to accommodate a significant increase in housing around the core retail district”.
The suburb is the site of the $447 million Box Hill hospital redevelopment while the Cromwell Property Group recently raised $66 million from investors for a new 20-storey ATO building.
While investing in property is clearly a long-term play – a point highlighted by API Magazine - and Box Hill prices may yet rise as these major projects are completed, investors who bought in the suburb will be dismayed to learn that Box Hill is not among the 29 suburbs that have scored consecutive mentions in both 2012 and 2013 Hot 100 lists prepared by API Magazine.
Three other Melbourne suburbs, picked as hotspots last year by API, recorded near 10% annual declines in median values, with Broadmeadows house prices falling 10%, Sunshine prices down 9.4% and Northcote prices down 8.1%.
At the other end of the spectrum, the inner Perth suburb of Highgate, just 1.7 kilometres from the CBD, has been a hotspot standout, with house median prices up 43% over the same period.
For the 12 months to January 31 2013, APM records a Highgate median house price of $609,000 from 40 sales compared with a median house price of $497,000 for the 12 months to December 2011.
Highgate was included on the Hot 100 list based on good local council involvement in creating “mixed-use hubs” in surrounding areas, great accessibility to the city centre via road and train and good amenities and services in neighbouring suburbs like Mount Lawley and East Perth.
In addition, and as indicated by the small number of sales recorded, Highgate is a tightly-held suburb with “aesthetic appeal”
Surprisingly and despite the strong showing, Highgate is not listed as a hot spot in this year’s list, though a number of other eastern Perth suburbs are, including Dianella (6 kilometres north east of Perth), Carlisle ( 6 kilometres south east of Perth), Bayswater (6.6 kilometres north east of Perth) and Belmont (6.5 kilometres east of Perth.)
WA locations dominated the best performing locations from the 2012 list with Highgate followed by the Pilbara mining hotspots of Karratha (up 36.4%), Newman (up 25.5%) and Onslow (22.6%).
Just 29 suburbs have made it onto the hotlist for the second year in a row demonstrating the fleeting nature of so-called “hotspots”
The report highlights the challenges in picking property investment hotspots and the importance of doing your own research.
Indeed, API Magazine, in its guide to this year’s list says readers should not buy a property in a location “just because it’s in the Hot 100”.
However, it does say that suburbs have been picked for their “growth prospects over the next 12 months as well as the longer term”.
“This list isn’t your due diligence. You must do your own detailed homework into any area you’re going to invest in, as well as the property type,” says API.
<table style="width: 309px;" frame="box" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0">
<colgroup>
<col width="141">
<col width="168">
</colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Suburb</td>
<td width="168">Houses (12 month change)</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Box Hill, VIC</td>
<td width="168">-19%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Port Adelaide, SA</td>
<td width="168">-14.80%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Broadmeadows, VIC</td>
<td width="168">-10%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Sunshine, VIC</td>
<td width="168">-9.40%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Townsville, QLD</td>
<td width="168">-8.30%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Northcote, VIC</td>
<td width="168">-8.10%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">South Brisbane, QLD</td>
<td width="168">-8.10%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Ascot Vale, VIC</td>
<td width="168">-7.90%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Mandurah, WA</td>
<td width="168">-6.90%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Oakey, QLD</td>
<td width="168">-6.90%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Carindale, QLD</td>
<td width="168">-6.70%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Frankston, VIC</td>
<td width="168">-5.70%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Smithton, TAS</td>
<td width="168">-5.30%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Dickson, ACT</td>
<td width="168">-4.80%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Keperra, QLD</td>
<td width="168">-4.00%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Magill, SA</td>
<td width="168">-3.70%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Warrane, TAS</td>
<td width="168">-3.60%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Eden Hill, WA</td>
<td width="168">-3.20%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Werribee, VIC</td>
<td width="168">-3.20%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Stafford, QLD</td>
<td width="168">-2.20%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Dandenong, VIC</td>
<td width="168">-2.10%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Warrnambool, VIC</td>
<td width="168">-1.90%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Coorparoo, QLD</td>
<td width="168">-1.60%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Ningi, QLD</td>
<td width="168">-1.50%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Woodville West, SA</td>
<td width="168">-1.50%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Maitland, NSW</td>
<td width="168">-0.90%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Southport, QLD</td>
<td width="168">-0.90%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Ceduna, SA</td>
<td width="168">-0.80%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Indooroopilly, QLD</td>
<td width="168">-0.80%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Camperdown, NSW</td>
<td width="168">-0.70%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Sherwood, QLD</td>
<td width="168">-0.60%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Armadale, WA</td>
<td width="168">-0.40%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Coburg, VIC</td>
<td width="168">-0.20%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Moorooka, QLD</td>
<td width="168">0%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Parap, NT</td>
<td width="168">0%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Port Lincoln, SA</td>
<td width="168">0.20%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Turner, ACT</td>
<td width="168">0.20%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Ballarat, VIC</td>
<td width="168">0.30%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Mentone, VIC</td>
<td width="168">0.40%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Bunbury, WA</td>
<td width="168">0.50%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">West Footscray, VIC</td>
<td width="168">0.50%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Fremantle, WA</td>
<td width="168">0.60%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Granville, NSW</td>
<td width="168">0.90%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Ringwood, VIC</td>
<td width="168">0.90%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Footscray, VIC</td>
<td width="168">1.00%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Chermside, QLD</td>
<td width="168">1.10%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Como, WA</td>
<td width="168">1.10%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Marrickville, NSW</td>
<td width="168">1.30%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Westminster, WA</td>
<td width="168">1.30%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Yeerongpilly, QLD</td>
<td width="168">1.50%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Toowoomba, QLD</td>
<td width="168">2.00%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Edgewater, WA</td>
<td width="168">2.30%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Thornbury, VIC</td>
<td width="168">2.30%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Enmore, NSW</td>
<td width="168">2.50%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Erskineville, NSW</td>
<td width="168">2.60%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Blacktown, NSW</td>
<td width="168">2.70%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Perth CBD, WA</td>
<td width="168">3.00%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Orange, NSW</td>
<td width="168">3.30%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Heathridge, WA</td>
<td width="168">3.50%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Maroubra, NSW</td>
<td width="168">3.80%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Murarrie, QLD</td>
<td width="168">3.90%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Kellyville, NSW</td>
<td width="168">4.00%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Underwood, QLD</td>
<td width="168">4.30%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Hackham, SA</td>
<td width="168">4.40%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Joondalup, WA</td>
<td width="168">4.50%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Willetton, WA</td>
<td width="168">5.10%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Osbourne Park, WA</td>
<td width="168">5.40%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Dunsborough,WA</td>
<td width="168">5.60%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Hamilton Hill, WA</td>
<td width="168">5.70%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Yangebup, WA</td>
<td width="168">5.80%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Cloverdale, WA</td>
<td width="168">6.10%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Belmont, WA</td>
<td width="168">7.40%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Midland, WA</td>
<td width="168">7.70%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Roxby Downs, SA</td>
<td width="168">8.30%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Bendigo, VIC</td>
<td width="168">8.70%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Whyalla, SA</td>
<td width="168">8.70%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Mackay, QLD</td>
<td width="168">9.40%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Carlton North, VIC</td>
<td width="168">9.60%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Summer Hill, NSW</td>
<td width="168">10.90%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Neutral Bay, NSW</td>
<td width="168">12.50%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Port Hedland, WA</td>
<td width="168">13.20%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Roma, QLD</td>
<td width="168">14.20%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Moranbah, QLD</td>
<td width="168">14.50%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Norwood, SA</td>
<td width="168">14.50%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Nundah, QLD</td>
<td width="168">16.30%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Broome, WA</td>
<td width="168">16.70%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Onslow, WA</td>
<td width="168">22.60%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Newman, WA</td>
<td width="168">25.50%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Karratha, WA</td>
<td width="168">36.40%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="21">
<td height="21" width="141">Highgate, WA</td>
<td width="168">43.00%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20" width="141">Source: API Magazine</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
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Hit and miss hotspots: Box Hill flames out while Highgate, Karratha, Newman and other WA mining locations are on fire

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I started the year predicting capital city market performance would be led in 2013 by Perth and Darwin, with Sydney close behind.  
Early indications suggest that’s the way it’s panning out. Darwin started the year already well into a growth phase and Perth has quickly taken on boom parameters as 2013 has progressed.  
Sydney, the under-achiever among the capital cities over the past decade, is busily making up some of the lost ground. Each week the anecdotal reports of rising activity and prices in Sydney grow stronger, supported by research evidence as the data trickles in.
Australian Property Monitors reports strong price growth in many of the million-dollar suburbs, while experienced buyers agent Henry Wilkinson sees a sellers market, with price expectations heading north rapidly.  
Wilkinson, of Homesearch Solutions, says prices in some Sydney suburbs have risen 5-10% in the first few months of 2013.  
Wilkinson says price movements are so rapid, in some cases, that buyers need to examine very recent sales in an area before deciding their offer amounts, rather than looking at sales from the past six months in property databases.  
“The property statistics are often months behind in their announcements on price movements,” he says.  
“The advice we are currently giving to our clients is to buy now rather than wait until later in the year. Delaying a purchase may mean having to compromise - fewer bedrooms, no parking, less renovated or a less desirable suburb.”  
Wilkinson says auction clearance rates have been consistently above 70% since February, which is the strongest trend since 2010.  
“Competition has been intense at most of the auctions we have attended,” he says. “Some auctions have had 15 or more active bidders and indications are that bidders and the eventual buyers have been exceeding their pre-set limits.”  
Wilkinson says the market under $700,000 and the market up to $1,600,000 have been the strongest performers, particularly in the inner and medium radius suburbs. “We have also noticed some movement in the upper market after years of stagnation,” he says.  
APM says some suburbs had median house price growth above 20% in the March Quarter, including <a target="_blank" href="/news">Avalon</a> and <a target="_blank" href="/news">Mosman</a>. Other fast movers included <a target="_blank" href="/news">Maroubra</a>, <a target="_blank" href="/news">Randwick</a> and <a target="_blank" href="/news">Pymble</a>.  
There was also increasing heat in some unit markets, headed by <a target="_blank" href="/news">Neutral Bay</a>, <a target="_blank" href="/news">Chatswood</a>, Mosman and <a target="_blank" href="/news">Manly</a>.  
APM senior economist Andrew Wilson says there is “a perception of value” in the $1 million to $2 million price range, with buyers increasingly active in search of opportunities.  
Agents operating in those market report the best activity they have had in several years.
Terry Ryder is the founder of <a href="https://www.hotspotting.com.au/" target="_blank">hotspotting.com.au</a>
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Sydney real estate market gathers momentum: Terry Ryder

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This is a subject that will, I am sure, always generate many different views and opinions. It’s an interesting and rewarding topic and while I am sure that there is not a particular textbook solution, the subject of creative content in any project marketing campaign deserves our attention, so let’s have the conversation.
No matter how small or big a project might be, from the creation of a logo and name, to the feel and tone of all advertising material, what some consultants now term ‘the brand lock-up’ I think we can agree that the creative content of any marketing campaign is always significant.
This is an area where opinions will always vary and I have been involved with some projects where the creative content has been tricky to define. The creative of every project heart is important because it will influence all activity and there is also an increasing trend where the built product is itself influenced by the brand values.  The creative content above all needs to engage the target, aid communication and help enrich the sales path and buyer experience and sustain the brand values. Now that’s a big job.
And so while this may not be an area that is instantly defined, as one particular solution being ‘right’ and another ‘wrong’, one key point remains and that is to always match the creative material and buyer expectations. Avoid shoehorning the project into a particular trend. In part this can be avoided by having a solid working brief that is underpinned by detailed product, market and demographics knowledge.
When I get towards the end of this topic we will look at how best to prepare a creative brief to external advertising and creative agencies and then how to reach a decision on the resulting pitches.
Experience has shown me that it is possible to both over-pitch and under-pitch creative material. Again we need to always keep in mind that creative extends across all marketing activity. It is not just applied to advertising or brochures, websites and signs, but should reach into and influence all activity. 
Then we need to make sure that any creative execution also sits within the wider context of the marketplace into which the message is being projected. In other words I think that the creative needs to be apt for the market audience. My view is that when marketing a major project that this is an area associated with major lifestyle choices, and for our buyers it will usually involve large amounts of money. The target market is not looking to take silly risks.
As we have seen over the past few years, post-GFC there has been an underlying reaction to the prevailing economic outlook. For what appears to be the vast majority of consumers debit and excess have become undesirable. Clearly the market from top to bottom is more conservative and cautious, and this is even more so among anxious first time buyers
How and why this is happening merits some deliberation and while not the only factor, it does however need to be reflected in how the creative message is currently formed.
Peter Chittenden is managing director for residential of <a href="https://www.colliers.com.au/Colliers%20Corporate/Residential.aspx" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Colliers International.</a>
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Defining creative content in project marketing: Peter Chittenden

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Sydney's prestige market remains relatively subdued, with little activity and even price falls in Point Piper.
Australian Property Monitors reported just two auction sales at the weekend above $2 million. There was a very healthy 75.5% recorded over the weekend in Sydney, the second highest recorded this year.
Sydney's pricey east was none-the-less one of the best performing weekend districts with a clearance rate of 82%.
There was an average sale price of $1,085,875 in the city and east.
Dr Andrew Wilson from APM said the result was achieved despite the school holidays and bad weather.
"The auction market hasn’t been this strong since the start of 2010 – weekend auction clearance rates have been averaging 72% over the past three months.
"They’re about 15 percentage points higher than at the same time last year," he wrote on Fairfax Media.
The weekend's most expensive property reported auction was a five-bedroom Strathfield house sold at $2.35 million.
The newly completed Pemberton Street sold through Raine &amp; Horne Burwood agent Guy Lorello and Victor Soo.
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/2013/04/april22strathfield]}
It last sold at $1.25 million in early 2011 as a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.homehound.com.au/20+pemberton+street+strathfield+nsw+2135/17065933/">one-storey brick cottage</a> (pictured below).
<img height="297" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/04/strathfieldoldapril22one1.jpg" alt="strathfieldoldapril22one1">
There was also a Point Piper apartment that sold through McGrath agent Peter Starr on Wolseley Road for $2,165,000. The <a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-nsw-point+piper-108513796">four-bedroom apartment</a> had previously sold in similar renovation style at $2.42 million in  2007. There were 12 bids from the two competing registered bidders.
<img height="348" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/04/pointpiperapril22one.jpg" alt="pointpiperapril22one">
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Sydney's prestige subdued with just the two weekend auction sales above $2 million

<html><body>Australian Property Monitors (APM) has released a list of auction results in Adelaide for the weekend of April 20. <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.homepriceguide.com.au/saturday_auction_results/Adelaide.pdf" target="_blank">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 Adelaide auction results for April 20 weekend

<html><body>Australian Property Monitors (APM) has released a list of auction results in Brisbane for the weekend of  April 20. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.homepriceguide.com.au/saturday_auction_results/Brisbane.pdf" rel="nofollow" style="font-size: 14px;">Click here</a> for the auction results, and click on each street address to see the property's marketing.</body></html>

APM's Brisbane auction results for April 20 weekend

<html><body>Australian Property Monitors (APM) has released a list of results from 196 auctions in Melbourne for the weekend of  April 20. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.homepriceguide.com.au/saturday_auction_results/Melbourne.pdf" rel="nofollow" style="font-size: 14px;">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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