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>Australian Property Monitors (APM) has released a list of results from 191 auctions in Sydney for the weekend of April 20. The clearance rate was 75.5%. <a style="font-size: 14px;" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="https://www.homepriceguide.com.au/saturday_auction_results/Sydney.pdf">Click here</a> for the auction results, and click on each street address to see the property's marketing.</body></html>

po-LsXgBTHBmX

APM's Sydney 191 auction results show a 75.5% clearance rate

<html><body>
The 1860s South Melbourne terrace of the AFL's No.2 man, Gillon McLachlan and his wife Laura was passed in on a $4.4 million vendor bid at auction today.
There was an opening bid of $4.3 million from one of the few interested parties prepared to show their hand at the onsite parkside auction. Locals in attendance included retired politican diplomat Richard Alston.
It had been listed by Rob Vickers-Willis of Abercromby's Real Estate Armadale initially by private treaty in February without success.
The envisaged price range was between $4 million and $4.5 million on the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertytycoon.com.au/tip/melbourne">Property Tycoon</a> tipping website.
The Georgian terrace comes with contemporary living and kitchen area with sliding doors that open to leafy courtyards.
<img alt="mclachlan1" height="353" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/02/mclachlan1.jpg">
The three bedroom, two bathroom house comes with rear contemporary studio apartment with private entrance above its two car garage.
The terrace cost $3.6 million in 2007. Set on a 460-square-metre block, it was formerly owned and restored by broadcaster Peter Couchman, who then bought next door.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/02/mclachlan2.jpg" width="470" height="353" alt="mclachlan2">
When Couchman bought it in the 1970s, it was divided into flats, but underneath plaster boards and layers of paint were fine period features.
The terrace, one of a pair built for a locksmith overlooking a little park, had previously traded at $1,925,000 in 2004, then $785,000 in 1996 and $625,000 in 1992.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/02/mclachlan3.jpg" width="470" height="353" alt="mclachlan3">
It was mid-last year that McLachlan, the AFL  deputy chief executive, knocked back the job as chief executive of the ARL Commission in Sydney.
He married, Laura, the daughter of Spotless chief Brian Blythe in 2003.
Property Observer will provide an update on Monday on all the weekend auction results.
</body></html>

jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

AFL's Gillon McLachlan South Melbourne home passed in with $4.4 million vendor bid

<html><body>
Due to London's high property prices, its rental yields are relatively modest on the whole.
Southwark with a £401,405 ($A594,800) average price tops the list of boroughs with a yield of 6.15% arising from a £2,058 ($A3050) monthly rental.
Areas in Outer London offer some of the strongest yields in the capital including Newham, Enfield, Brent and Kingston upon Thames.
Just three of the top ten areas are in inner London and each of these is in the East of the city, traditionally the more affordable end of the capital.
Top 10 London Buy To Let Hotspots by Rental Yield
<table><tbody>
<tr>
<td>
Location
</td>
<td>
Average Property Price
</td>
<td>
Average Rent (Monthly)
</td>
<td>
Rental Yield (gross)
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<ul>
<li>1. Southwark </li>
</ul>
</td>
<td>
£401,405
</td>
<td>
£2,058
</td>
<td>
6.15%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<ul>
<li>2. Newham </li>
</ul>
</td>
<td>
£229,141
</td>
<td>
£1,126
</td>
<td>
5.90%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<ul>
<li>3. Enfield </li>
</ul>
</td>
<td>
£261,163
</td>
<td>
£1,200
</td>
<td>
5.51%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<ul>
<li>4. Brent </li>
</ul>
</td>
<td>
£337,723
</td>
<td>
£1,517
</td>
<td>
5.39%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<ul>
<li>5. Kingston upon Thames </li>
</ul>
</td>
<td>
£333,122
</td>
<td>
£1,363
</td>
<td>
4.91%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<ul>
<li>6. Hounslow </li>
</ul>
</td>
<td>
£285,927
</td>
<td>
£1,148
</td>
<td>
4.82%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<ul>
<li>7. Wandsworth </li>
</ul>
</td>
<td>
£428,987
</td>
<td>
£1,694
</td>
<td>
4.74%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<ul>
<li>8. Lewisham </li>
</ul>
</td>
<td>
£283,031
</td>
<td>
£1,101
</td>
<td>
4.67%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<ul>
<li>9. Tower Hamlets </li>
</ul>
</td>
<td>
£364,296
</td>
<td>
£1,387
</td>
<td>
4.57%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<ul>
<li>10. Harrow </li>
</ul>
</td>
<td>
£306,381
</td>
<td>
£1,148
</td>
<td>
4.50%
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
HSBC
Peter Dockar, head of mortgages at HSBC, suggested buy to let remained a good investment for those looking for above average returns.
"Twenty-three of the top 50 areas offer yields above 5%, significantly more than is available from more traditional savings options.
"However, it is clear there is a fine line between a property in a desirable area, the rents that can be achieved and the returns that can be yielded so it is key landlords do their research as often the most popular locations may not offer the best return," he said.
 
</body></html>

Southwark heads London's top 10 investor rental hotspots: HSBC

<html><body>
Due to holiday rentals and seasonal work, many seaside towns are buy to let hotspots with 17 of the top 50 areas found on the coast.
At £75,943 ($A112,400) Blackpool topped the seaside town list with a yield of 7.81% and a £494 ($A730) average montly rent.
The rest of the top ten is made up of southern seaside areas, including holiday destinations such as Brighton, Bournemouth and Eastbourne.
While property prices tend to be higher in these areas, rents are also above average, meaning yields are strong for investors.
Top 10 Seaside Buy To Let Hotspots by Rental Yield
<table><tbody>
<tr>
<td>
Location
</td>
<td>
Average Property Price
</td>
<td>
Average Rent (Monthly)
</td>
<td>
Rental Yield (gross)
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<ul>
<li>1. Blackpool </li>
</ul>
</td>
<td>
£75,943
</td>
<td>
£494
</td>
<td>
7.81%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<ul>
<li>2. Bournemouth </li>
</ul>
</td>
<td>
£170,493
</td>
<td>
£825
</td>
<td>
5.81%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<ul>
<li>3. Brighton and Hove </li>
</ul>
</td>
<td>
£229,622
</td>
<td>
£1,049
</td>
<td>
5.48%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<ul>
<li>4. Torbay </li>
</ul>
</td>
<td>
£139,168
</td>
<td>
£598
</td>
<td>
5.16%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<ul>
<li>5. Southend-on-Sea </li>
</ul>
</td>
<td>
£152,171
</td>
<td>
£650
</td>
<td>
5.13%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<ul>
<li>6. Shepway </li>
</ul>
</td>
<td>
£181,399
</td>
<td>
£695
</td>
<td>
4.60%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<ul>
<li>7. Eastbourne </li>
</ul>
</td>
<td>
£177,408
</td>
<td>
£675
</td>
<td>
4.57%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<ul>
<li>8. Isles of Scilly </li>
</ul>
</td>
<td>
£180,227
</td>
<td>
£654
</td>
<td>
4.35%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<ul>
<li>9. Hastings </li>
</ul>
</td>
<td>
£177,408
</td>
<td>
£550
</td>
<td>
3.72%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<ul>
<li>10. Thanet </li>
</ul>
</td>
<td>
£181,399
</td>
<td>
£524
</td>
<td>
3.47%
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
 
HSBC
</body></html>

Blackpool heads the list of UK seaside town hotspots for investors  

<html><body>
Rental yields of 7.82% and private rental accommodation making up almost a quarter of its housing stock make Southampton the best place in the UK for buy to let (BTL) investors, according to research from HSBC.
Of the fifty towns and cities with the highest concentration of private rental housing stock, Southampton topped the list for rental yield due to relatively affordable housing and an average rent of £901 per month ($A1334) with an average price of £138,311 ($204,800).
The relatively inexpensive property prices in Blackpool, Hull Manchester and Nottingham mean that these four Northern areas make up the rest of the top five, offering strong returns for BTL investors with yields of 7.81%, 7.77%, 7.60% and 7.55% respectively.
In sixth place, Coventry is the only other city offering returns above seven per cent with a yield of 7.13%.
Despite the high proportion of private rentals in the capital, London does not score highly in terms of rental yields due to the comparably high property prices.
 The top performing borough in the capital, Southwark, is 13th overall while the affluent London boroughs of Hammersmith and Fulham and Kensington and Chelsea are ranked in the bottom two places in the top 50 due to the high initial outlay to purchase a property, generating returns of just 3.42% and 3.34% respectively.
Top 10 Buy To Let Hotspots by Rental Yield
<table><tbody>
<tr>
<td>
Location
</td>
<td>
Average Property Price
</td>
<td>
Average Rent (Monthly)
</td>
<td>
Rental Yield (gross)
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<ul>
<li>1. Southampton </li>
</ul>
</td>
<td>
£138,311
</td>
<td>
£901
</td>
<td>
7.82%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<ul>
<li>2. Blackpool </li>
</ul>
</td>
<td>
£75,943
</td>
<td>
£494
</td>
<td>
7.81%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<ul>
<li>3. Kingston upon Hull </li>
</ul>
</td>
<td>
£69,519
</td>
<td>
£450
</td>
<td>
7.77%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<ul>
<li>4. Manchester </li>
</ul>
</td>
<td>
£102,631
</td>
<td>
£650
</td>
<td>
7.60%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<ul>
<li>5. Nottingham </li>
</ul>
</td>
<td>
£83,313
</td>
<td>
£524
</td>
<td>
7.55%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<ul>
<li>6. Coventry </li>
</ul>
</td>
<td>
£104,970
</td>
<td>
£624
</td>
<td>
7.13%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<ul>
<li>7. Slough </li>
</ul>
</td>
<td>
£171,581
</td>
<td>
£975
</td>
<td>
6.82%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<ul>
<li>8. Oxford </li>
</ul>
</td>
<td>
£244,893
</td>
<td>
£1,375
</td>
<td>
6.74%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<ul>
<li>9. Liverpool </li>
</ul>
</td>
<td>
£91,012
</td>
<td>
£498
</td>
<td>
6.57%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<ul>
<li>10. Portsmouth </li>
</ul>
</td>
<td>
£141,971
</td>
<td>
£775
</td>
<td>
6.55%
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
HSBC</body></html>

Southampton heads the United Kingdom's top 10 investor hostpots: HSBC 

<html><body>
An 1867-built Georgian home in South Melbourne and a redesigned warehouse in Annandale will go under the hammer this weekend.
Only moments from Albert Park Lake, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-south+melbourne-113075879">40 Howe Crescent, South Melbourne</a> (pictured below) has three bedrooms and a studio apartment with a private entrance.
<img alt="propertytycoonapril19one" height="350" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/04/propertytycoonapril19one.jpg">
The property is situated in a premier location and has a luxurious kitchen that is flooded with natural light and has ample space for entertaining.
Meanwhile, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-annandale-113332955">15 Nelson Street, Annandale</a> (pictured below) will not appeal to everyone but for those who love warehouse conversions it could be a highly prized asset.
<img alt="propertytycoonapril19two" height="352" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/04/propertytycoonapril19two.jpg">
After it was sold in 2009 for $981,000, it was renovated, and agent Dominic Kuneman from Bresic Whitney has indicated it will sell for more than $1.1 million this time around.
There's now a website, <a style="font-size: 14px;" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="https://www.propertytycoon.com.au/">www.propertytycoon.com.au</a>, where punters can guess five auction results in Melbourne and Sydney, with no outlay. It's mostly about testing your market knowledge with a small cash prize as a sweetener.

</body></html>

marmstrong-sd3emVLPPb

South Melbourne and Annandale feature in this week's Property Tycoon auction tipping

<html><body>
I did a radio interview this week and was asked to answer three seemingly simple questions:
- Should an investor buy old or new property?
- Where should they be buying?
- When should they be buying?
Simple, right? Well, not really. The three questions above have endless answers but I’ll run through what I answered.
Should you buy new or old property?
Neither. My answer was to build. Right now the NSW government wants to stimulate construction and is offering a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.osr.nsw.gov.au/benefits/grant_scheme/">$5,000 incentive to build</a>.
If you buy the right land at the right price, then you can create equity even on a single house build. But if you build a duplex or dual occupancy on that land, then the equity created can be much more.
Just this morning I was offererd a duplex site that was only $160,000. To build a three-bedroom duplex will cost about a third more than a single four-bedroom house. But the end value of the two dwellings will be so much higher. That is how Property Bloom creates equity for clients.
Where to buy?
Well, of course, that depends on two main things.
Do you want negatively geared property or neutral/cashflow positive property? An investor on a higher income paying lots of tax may be more interested in buying in the capital cities and will more than likely end up with a negatively geared property.
If it’s a new apartment or house, then they will also benefit from strong depreciation benefits. An investor looking to boost their income with the property investment may find a more cash flow positive property in regional areas.
In general, yields are higher in regional areas compared to capital cities. Of course, you can build in regional areas and create both a high depreciating dwellings with strong yields and benefit from cashflow, equity creation and depreciation.
When to buy?
This was the easiest question and my answer was: right now!
My opinion has always been that property should be held for the long term, for me that is over ten years.
I remember in the early 2000s when the market was moving up and friends said to me, “I’ll think I’ll wait for the market to come back before buying”.
Of course, they kicked themselves years down the track when the market was still high.
In the Hunter region of NSW, we did not see any correction after the rapid growth of 2000-2004, and since the market has enjoyed controlled incremental growth.
I think it’s best to get into the market as soon as you can but do your research and look for areas of good value. If you are clever and choose a flow-on suburb rather than a suburb that has already experienced strong growth, you can buy well and watch as the suburb eventually goes up in value.
I also believe the conditions right now are perfect: low interest rates, high rental returns and a good selection of property to buy. Soon, we may see an undersupply of investment stock and that can push prices higher. For me, this is an awesome time to be buying property (and developing it), our clients seem to agree.
There are many questions to answer on property investment; starting with these three may help you get into the market sooner than later.
Jo Chivers is director of <a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="https://www.propertybloom.com.au/" title="Property Bloom" style="font-size: 14px;">Property Bloom</a>, which manages property development.
</body></html>

jochivers-wq5Bp59R5a

When? Where? Old or new? Three key questions about property investment

<html><body>
I watched Margaret Thatcher's funeral last night, and one of the many clergy who spoke, quoted her thus:
"You should never simply believe what you are told, always question for yourself".
That's a key rule of investment. If you follow the crowd, you will most certainly buy and sell at the wrong time and miss out on the best investment opportunities. You often hear a number of phrases and buzzwords repeated, in investing, and especially about the Australian housing market. One you hear quite often is: "Booms are always followed by busts."
It is certainly true that booms are sometimes followed by busts. But always? Or is it possible that with lower interest rates in many global economies and in inflationary environments (such as exist in most developed world economies) a boom may be followed my a steady fall in house prices or a plateau while wages catch up, before price growth returns.
Popular beliefs
Popular consensus would have you believe that the Global Financial Crisis saw property prices across the globe plummet wildly, but is that actually true?
It certainly did happen in a number of countries. I know that in Britain house prices fell sharply in many areas away from London, although I note that price growth is now returning after a lull spanning several years. As a homebuyer, presumably you would be buying with a longer time horizon than a few years in mind so you will not have lost out.
As an investor, you are afforded the luxury of being able to invest wherever you like and you are not restricted to any one region. In the areas in and around London, and notably in areas where supply is not keeping pace with demand in the populous south-east of England, prices barely fell at all and have now easily powered on to new highs.
Ireland
In the share markets I sometimes hear investors bemoan that "we worry about the Greek economy more than the Greeks do" - and it certainly sometimes feels that way when it comes to Australia's property markets.
Over and over again we see in-depth analysis of Ireland's property market crash. On the one hand, it is good that countries should try to learn from the mistakes of others, but on the other it may be offering false hope to housing market bears and first homebuyers to insist that because house prices collapsed in Ireland, then they must surely do so in Australia.
Nothing is guaranteed to attract more derision than a statement such as "it is different here!", but it is certainly true that Australia does not have the monumental oversupply of properties that Ireland achieved ("<a href="https://www.independent.ie/business/irish/itll-take-us-43-years-to-fill-all-empty-houses-26863864" target="_blank" style="text-decoration: none; color: #7f7f7f;">43 years worth of oversupply"</a> and nearly 300,000 vacant houses) during its phenomenal run-up in housing market prices and construction.
It's true that I would not recommend investing in most of Australia's regional markets, but in our capital city markets the populations are growing very quickly and vacancy rates in many areas are very low and below 2% (as compared to 15% in Ireland). In the 12 months to September 2012,  Australia's population boomed by 382,500 people with a high proportion of immigrants heading to the capital cities.
Affordability dividend
The good news for Australians who are not yet on the housing market ladder is that in cities such as Brisbane and Adelaide, some years of weak price growth combined with falling interest rates have improved affordability dramatically.
It's true that median prices are high in Sydney and Melbourne, although reporting is often obsessively focused on how hard it is for first homebuyers to buy property close to the city. What is rarely mentioned is that Sydney's west has suburb after suburb of gleaming 4 bedroom homes on huge blocks of land which are not particularly expensive, especially with interest rates and mortgage rates as low as they are.
<img alt="wargentapril18one" height="385" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/04/wargentapril18one.jpg">
 
 
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
It's also common to hear to that previous generations "never had it this tough" but the RBA's house price data contradicts that claim. In this month's Charter magazine, Adam Creighton refers to Fisher's Money Illusion. Over three decades, incomes have oustripped price growth across all income groups in Australia, and since 2003, he notes, the poorest fifth of houses holds are $42 better off and the richest fifth $576.
The Money Illusion refers to our instinctive focus on nominal price increases rather than real price movements after accounting for inflation.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/04/wargentapril18two.jpg" width="470" height="443" alt="wargentapril18two">
Last month Michael Matusik, who is well known for speaking his mind, opined: "It's nonsense. Well over 60% of first homebuyers bought 4 bedroom homes last year. Expectations are way out of whack."  
Niagara Syndrome
I remember when I qualified as a Chartered Accountant in my mid-20s being well and truly unable to afford London house prices. In that scenario, you only really have two choices: you either whinge about it or invest your money smarter elsewhere.
Moaning doesn't tend to achieve much, for as soon as you allow your own happiness to be dictated by outcomes which are outside your own control you are engaging in what Tony Robbins would call 'Niagara Syndrome' and you risk being washed up in a place you didn't intend to be. As the old sporting motto goes: "Control the controllables".
 
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
Global property booms
<a style="text-decoration: none; color: #7f7f7f;" target="_blank" href="https://www.globalpropertyguide.com/real-estate-house-prices">This website</a> shows house price charts from around the globe. To pick a few at random from around the world:
<img alt="wargentapril18three" height="829" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/04/wargentapril18three.jpg">
Could it rather sometimes be the case that with lower interest rates in many parts of the world, absolute prices have moved higher as bank lending criteria have been deregulated and owners can service higher repayments (particularly as many more households have more than one income today)?
Don't take my word for it. Check out for yourself the house price charts for Austria, Belgium, Canada, China, Columbia, Finland, Iceland, Israel, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Malta, Serbia, South Korea, Taiwan, Sweden, Uruguay...you will see that by no means must a boom necessarily be followed by a bust.
In some cases it might happen, but a certainty it is not.
In Australia we saw a downturn from 2010 through to the middle of 2012, with median prices falling from peak to trough by around 7%, while households set about improving their buffers.
Since May 2012, prices have rebounded strongly across the country. You should never say never, but we haven't seen a housing bust in any of Australia's major capital city property markets yet, and the property market recovery continues.
Pete Wargent holds a range of finance and property qualifications and is the author of <a rel="nofollow" href="https://petewargent.blogspot.com.au/" target="_blank">Get a Financial Grip – a simple plan for financial fr</a><a rel="nofollow" href="https://petewargent.blogspot.com.au/" target="_blank">eedom.</a>
 
 
 
 
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pwargent-M4siyDbqQY

It's not a given that booms are followed by busts

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Sydney's weekly clearance rate sits comfortably in the high 60s, slightly above Melbourne's success rate, according to the latest RP Data weekly report.
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The above results are preliminary, with ‘final’ auction clearance rates published each Thursday.
RP Data, on average, collects between 80% and 85% of auction results each week. Clearance rates are calculated across properties that have been taken to auction over the past week.
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National clearance rate sits in the 60s: RP Data capital city auction statistics

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RP Data anticipates 1,319 capital city auctions over the coming week, which would mirror the previous week's 1,395 recorded auctions. 
The auction clearance rate last week was 62.7%, which was a slight increase from the previous week's 61.7%.
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This time last year the clearance rate was much lower at 46.8% with a total of 893 auctions across the capital cities. 
Melbourne recorded 610 auctions last week with a clearance rate of 67.5% – an improvement from the week before of 544 auctions and a clearance rate of 63.2%.
The clearance rate for Melbourne this time last year was much lower at 50.8%.
Meanwhile Sydney auction volumes remain virtually unchanged across the city with a total of 530 auctions last week and 528 auctions the week prior.
However, Sydney’s clearance rate grew to 68.6% last week, up from the 66.4% rate recorded the week before.
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