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.

Joel Robinson

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

A local downsizer has splashed $6.5 million on a penthouse in Perifa's Alex &amp; Willow development in Crows Nest. 
&nbsp; 
The purchaser sold their long-held family home in the area before embarking on a six-month search for the right apartment. After inspecting a range of options across the Lower North Shore, the buyer returned to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/alex-willow-crows-nest-82-90-alexander-street-crows-nest-nsw-2065">Alex &amp; Willow</a>. 
&nbsp; 
The buyer profile reflects the project’s broader purchaser mix. <a>Alex &amp; Willow</a> has attracted predominantly local downsizers looking to transition from larger homes without compromising on space or quality, alongside a smaller cohort of upsizers and investors drawn to the project’s location and design credentials. 
&nbsp; 
The milestone sale comes as the project, developed by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/perifa">Perifa</a>&nbsp;and delivered by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/versatile-made-construction">Versatile Construction</a>, both part of Versatile Group, reaches 60 per cent sold.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6680 project_image_fid=371325] 
&nbsp; 
Eddie Mansour, Managing Partner of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/ray-white-projects">Ray White Projects</a>, said the result demonstrates not only a headline price but also depth of demand. 
&nbsp; 
“This is an exceptional outcome and a clear reflection of sustained buyer demand for premium, well-located downsizer product,” Mansour said.

“We’re seeing a consistent pattern of local homeowners selling family residences and reinvesting into high-quality apartments that allow them to remain within their community. Alex &amp; Willow has resonated strongly with this group because it offers genuine scale, thoughtful design and immediate proximity to the village.” 
&nbsp; 
The sale reflects a broader and consistent trend of local downsizers actively seeking high-quality, low-maintenance residences close to established village centres. Agents report that demand for this product type has remained resilient, particularly where developments offer a rare combination of scale, design quality and walkable amenity. 
&nbsp;&nbsp; 
Fabrizio Perilli, Managing Director of Perifa and Versatile Group, said the sale marks a defining moment for the project. 
&nbsp; 
“The penthouse sale is a strong endorsement of the quality we have delivered, alongside our partners, and the clear demand from local downsizers for premium, boutique residences in this location,” Perilli said.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
“Most importantly, we’re proud to see the Alex &amp; Willow community beginning to take shape. As we move closer to completion, we’re looking forward to welcoming residents and seeing the project come to life.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6680 project_image_fid=338516] 
&nbsp; 
Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/nettletontribe">Nettleton Tribe</a> with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/richards-stanisich">Richards Stanisich</a>, Alex &amp; Willow is a boutique collection of generously sized two- and three-bedroom residences in the heart of Crows Nest village.&nbsp;

Completion is slated for early 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=6680]

Alex & Willow, Crows Nest penthouse sells off the plan for $6.5 million

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><article id="post-741"><div>
Excluding the prestige market or developments targeting empty-nesters, over the last five or so years the internal areas of the typical apartment have diminished considerably. Previously, the average studio was approximately 45 square metres, and one-bedroom apartments averaged 65 square metres. Two- and three-bedroom apartment averaged 90 square metres and 120 square metres respectively. At present, the average studio apartment has reduced to 38 square metres, while the average one-bedroom apartment sits at 50 square metres.
An average two-bedroom apartment typically ranges from 75 square metres to 85 square metres, and the few three-bedroom apartments being developed now start at approximately 100 square metres. Designs are changing and lifestyle demands are driving this trend, however the internal areas cannot diminish much further and are set to plateau. We have now seen this in the empty-nest market, where product below three bedrooms (and possibly with a study) will either not sell or take a long time to market.
Design at the forefront
The downsizing in apartments is not an isolated trend, and there are several other parallels worth noting that all point to how as a society we are responding to ever more pressures on our cities. Holden has announced that it may not make any more Commodores after 2014 as we switch to smaller cars. And, speaking of cars, as more inner-city apartments do not come with parking the rise of car share schemes is set to be more common. Developers are not including parking in some areas in response to council planning but also in an effort to make apartments more affordable.
These trends are all based around the shift in demographics towards more centralised apartment living, and they will continue to be key marketing points as they reflect a wider social demographic.
As apartments get smaller, design will have to get smarter, just like cars, as a small car now has features once only associated with the luxury end of the market. Design qualities will extend beyond how the available space used to include very pragmatic issue like providing ample storage.
An example from New York
Recently the New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg <a target="_blank" href="https://www.nyc.gov/portal/site/nycgov/menuitem.c0935b9a57bb4ef3daf2f1c701c789a0/index.jsp?pageID=mayor_press_release&amp;catID=1194&amp;doc_name=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nyc.gov%2Fhtml%2Fom%2Fhtml%2F2013a%2Fpr032-13&amp;cc=unused1978&amp;rc=1194&amp;ndi=1">announced the winner</a> of the city’s micro-apartment competition. The contest launched last July was to design a 22-square-metre to 33-square-metre apartment. The winner (a collaboration between Monadnock Construction, the Actors Fund Housing Development Corporation, and nARCHITECTS called My Mirco NY) helps to show how good design can make a smaller apartment a very appealing space.
Some of the key points from the winning design included: high ceilings, dual-use furniture, a long, narrow floor plan, micro kitchen, floor-to-ceiling storage, and loft space.
Like Sydney, New York is also facing similar concerns about affordability, which was part of the reason behind the contest. To address affordability, 40% of the units will be offered below market rates and will be built on city-owned land, and as such will be social housing.
Like Australia, in the US the growth rate for one-person and two-person households is above that of larger households, and this is driving the need for quality design of smaller apartments.
The New York example again demonstrates that as apartments get smaller design qualities will be important, and developments will need to be based on socially diverse and facility-rich areas. Planning and local authorities will need to look beyond current regulations and evolve new progressive models.
This is a debate that clearly has an international flavour and urgency. If we are to avoid living in a "cupboard apartment" – even if we can choose to shop in Harrod's food hall, then now is the time for innovative thinking, planning and marketing. It’s a debate that we need to contribute to.
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>
</div>
</article></body></html>

pchittenden-eLqUUC8TWW

Australian apartments won't be getting any smaller

<html><body>
Making predictions pertaining to our residential property markets has been challenging since 2007 – however it appears that in 2013 that task won’t be as difficult (I hope). The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) gave a clear indication that their manoeuvring of the cash rate in 2013 will be closely reflective of Australia’s property data. <a target="_blank" href="/news" title="Housing prices have moved higher: RBA governor’s statement ">Housing prices have moved higher: RBA governor’s statement</a>, which confirms my prediction last week that I believe the official cash rate will not go below 3% in 2013.
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.theage.com.au/business/the-economy/next-rate-cut-up-to-the-banks-20130205-2dw23" title="Next rate cut up to banks ">Next rate cut up to banks, </a>which is exactly what the RBA would be hoping,so it did not take long before <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/news/westpac-lead-the-big-banks-below-5-on-nfixed-home-loans/2013020659208" title="Westpac lead the big banks below 5% on fixed home loans">Westpac lead the big banks below 5% on fixed home loans</a>. It’s over to the others now – the NAB’s lowest fixed  rate is 5.34% for its one-year home loan, the Commonwealth Bank offers a one-year fixed of 5.19%, while ANZ offers a two-year fixed rate at 5.49% – so watch with interest should they decide to sharpen their respective pencils next week. If you’re planning on selling you should not sign  up, given when you are fixed you then qualify for break fees should you sell during your fixed term.
So the good news for property owners is that the <a target="_blank" href="https://afr.com/f/free/blogs/christopher_joye/house_price_recovery_under_way_I3OkqQO7imoCeJQYb1x3AN" title="house price recovery under way">house price recovery under way</a>, which overall is a pleasant change given for once, the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/for-once-the-statistics-agree-that-property-prices-are-rising-terry-ryder/2013020659198?utm_source=po&amp;utm_medium=aida&amp;utm_campaign=upperright" title="statistics agree that property prices are rising">statistics agree that property prices are rising</a>. Having said that, we are of the opinion that we will see a gradual albeit minimal capital appreciation throughout 2013. Further evidence is that <a target="_blank" href="/news" title="AFG reports record January figures with $2.2 billion ">AFG reports record January figures w</a><a target="_blank" href="/news" title="AFG reports record January figures with $2.2 billion ">ith $2.2 billion </a>mortgages approved which represents their highest cumulative value ever recorded for the group. Australia’s population has a firm foot on the accelerator.
For those watching the Australian All Ordinaries closely, it currently sits at just below the 5,000 mark – historically when the All Ordinaries is north of 5,000 our property markets are booming. Although I foresee that what we are seeing presently is a false economy given investors have moved from protecting their cash reserves to re-investing back into the shock market. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.smh.com.au/money/investing/all-ords-at-17000-just-rally-round-this-forecast-20130106-2cb24" title="All Ords at 17,000? Just rally round this forecast">All Ords at 17,000? Just rally round this forecast</a> well that is a prediction for 2030 – so don’t panic.
<a rel="attachment wp-att-7402" href="https://www.rwm.com.au/2013/02/2013-a-different-market-get-on-with-online/7-02-2013-3-47-34-pm/"><img width="470" height="438" src="https://www.rwm.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/7-02-2013-3-47-34-PM.jpg" alt="7-02-2013 3-47-34 PM"></a>
As we reported last week the Mosman, Cremorne and Neutral Bay volume of listings is down considerably on previous years. Interestingly, this statistic is not only restricted to our demographic markets, as <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/sydney-property-listings-fall-by-surprising-6-in-january-to-lowest-level-since-april-2010-sqm/2013020359117?utm_source=po&amp;utm_medium=aida&amp;utm_campaign=latestnews" title="Sydney property listings fall by ‘surprising’ 6% in January to lowest level since 2010: SQM.">Sydney property listings fall by ‘surprising’ 6% in January to lowest level since 2010: SQM.</a> It is interesting to note that Mosman house listings continue to hover at the moment at approximately 25% down on this time last year. It will be fascinating to watch how these figures alternate through 2013.
However, our <a target="_blank" href="https://news.theage.com.au/breaking-news-business/construction-sector-continues-to-shrink-20130207-2e08j" title="construction continues to shrink ">construction </a><a target="_blank" href="https://news.theage.com.au/breaking-news-business/construction-sector-continues-to-shrink-20130207-2e08j" title="construction continues to shrink ">continues to shrink</a><a target="_blank" href="https://news.theage.com.au/breaking-news-business/construction-sector-continues-to-shrink-20130207-2e08j" title="construction continues to shrink ">,</a> which just so happens to be the 32nd month of contractions within our building industry.
Robert Simeon is a director of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.rwm.com.au/" title="RWM">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 target="_blank" href="https://www.rwm.com.au/news/" title="Virtual Realty News">Virtual Realty News</a> since 2000. The RWM real estate model has sold in excess of $1 billion in database sales globally.
</body></html>

robertsimeon-hRNTwJyXkQ

Gradual, minimal house price appreciation in 2013

<html><body>
Six out of the 10 suburbs picked by Australian Property Monitors senior economist Andrew Wilson as offering the best prospects for price growth have already beaten inflation over the first six months of the year.
Wilson picked Fairfield, Blacktown, St Ives, Rooty Hill, Lethbridge Park, Macquarie Fields, Doonside, Punchbowl, Ingleburn and Kingswood at the start of 2013 as his detached housing hotspots.
Apart from wealthy upper north shore enclave of St Ives, popular with South African expats, where the median house price is above $1 million, the nine other suburbs are all traditional “battler” locations in the western outer ring of the Sydney metropolitan region with Ingleburn, 44 kilometres south of the CBD, the furthest away.
They all have median prices well below the Sydney median house price of $673,000.
To date, the top performer has been Fairfield, 29 kilometres west of the city where the median house price has risen 12.1% to $474,000, followed by Blacktown (9.2%) and St Ives (5.8%).
The others recording price growth above inflation – currently at 2.6%  - are Rooty Hill, Lethbridge Park Macquarie Fields
<img height="237" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/larry_uploads/APM_HOUSES1.jpg" alt="APM_HOUSES1">
Fairfield is a multi-cultural suburb with large Vietnamese, Arabic and Chinese communities. Just over a third (37.5%) of Fairfield’s 39,515 residents were born in Australia with 16% born in Iraq, according to the 2011 census. Vietnamese is the most commonly spoken language in Fairfield outside of English.
Homeownership is relatively high in Fairfield with just 30% of residents renting compared with 40% who rent across NSW.
However, Fairfield along with Lethbridge Park are among the most socially disadvantaged suburbs in Sydney, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics.
Recent sales below $500,000 in Fairfield include a 1960s built weatherboard house with two-bedrooms at <a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-fairfield-114053147">61 Crosby Crescent</a>, which sold for $432,000 at auction on July 6 through Stephen Jurinic of Pretti Real Estate - Fairfield Heights. It was listed with expectations above $390,000. RP Data records show it last sold for $112,000 in 1995 – annual growth of nearly 8%.
Another recent sale was a renovated <a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-fairfield-108781911">six bedroom house at 462 The Horsley Drive Fairfield</a> also built in the 1960s within walking distance to the Fairfield CBD.
It sold for $485,000 through Muhammad Mushtaq of Ray White – Fairfield having last sold for $312,000 in June 2012. RP Data photographs show the house partially gutted and surrounded by fencing, prior to its renovation.
It currently rents for $550 per week – a gross yield of around 5.9%.
Property Observer reported earlier this month that <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/trophy-homes/fairfield-mansion-with-granny-flat-fetches-%241117-million-in-sydney-weekend-auctions/2013071363235">Fairfield mansion with granny flat</a> fetched a $1.117 million suburb record price in Sydney weekend auctions. The McMansion has seven bedrooms and a two-bedroom granny flat.
Wilson wrote recently in the Fairfax-owned Sun Herald that APM “relative affordability” of suburbs like Fairfield and Blacktown compared with the rest of Sydney was the reasons they were popular
“Because Sydney is the most expensive city in Australia, there is always that drive at the bottom of the market for budget-priced properties,” Wilson said.
</body></html>

lschlesinger-FZcF9M3vE6

APM's Andrew Wilson’s top 2013 Sydney suburb picks showing price growth led by multi-cultural Fairfield

<html><body>
The trendy inner Sydney suburb of Potts Point stands in stark contrast to the more affordable suburban unit markets picked by Australian Property Monitors senior economist Andrew Wilson to be the top performers for 2013 – most of which are showing good prospects of price growth.
Figures for the first six months of year show seven out 10 of Wilson’s top picks are beating inflation (2.6%) lead by Penrith on the western outskirt of Sydney, with unit prices up 8.4% to a median of $257,000 as of the end of June.
Potts Point ranks fourth best performing market out of the 10 chosen by Wilson with respectable price growth of 4.2% and a median unit price of $525,000 – more than double that of Penrith.
Ahead of Potts Point is the south west suburb of Wiley Park, where unit prices are up 7.9% for the first six months of the year and neighbouring Lakemba, where unit prices have risen 5.5%.
Both suburbs are within postcode 2195 in the Canterbury/Bankstown region with a high proportion of residents with Lebanese and Bangladeshi ancestry and with only a third of residents born in Australia, according to census 2011 data.
Around 88% of residents in these two suburbs are the children of parents born overseas.
The other inner city unit hotspot in the top ten, Ultimo, has yet to fire with unit prices treading water at median of $470,000.
Interestingly, Fairfield, the strongest performing detached housing suburb among Wilson’s 2013 picks with house prices up 12.1% over the first six months of the year has not shown the same strength across units, with median unit prices down 3.5% over this period with a median price of $273,000.
<img height="248" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/larry_uploads/APM_UNIT_HOTSPOTS.jpg" alt="APM_UNIT_HOTSPOTS">
Recent Wiley Park unit sales include a two bedroom apartment in a <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-nsw-wiley+park-108397731" target="_blank">small block on Shadforth Street</a> which sold for $257,000 through Carlos Almeida of Just Think Real Estate – Parramatta. RP Data records show it sold for $235,000 in 2009. It is currently rented for $310 per equating to a gross yield of around 6.3%.
Another sale in Wiley Park was a two-bedroom unit in a <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-unit-nsw-wiley+park-113948619" target="_blank">1960s-built block at 279 Lakemba Street</a> which sold through Luke Knapton of Knapton &amp; Co Pty Limited – Lakemba.  It sold for $284,000 having previously sold for $236,000 in February 2010. It is currently rented for $330 per week equating to a gross yield of around 6%.
Around $500,000 plus gets you a two-bedroom unit in Potts Point. Recent sales include a <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-nsw-potts+point-114369391" target="_blank">71 square metre apartment at 238 William Street</a> which sold for $565,000 through Romany Brooks of BresicWhitney – Darlinghurst.
RP Data records indicate it previously sold for $450,000 in 2008.
Part of a 2008 built block, the apartment has rented for $490 per week equating to a yield of 4.5%.
</body></html>

Penrith, Wiley Park and Lakemba beat Potts Point for price growth among Andrew Wilson's unit hotspots for 2013

<html><body>
Australia's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate remained steady at 5.4% in January, says the ABS.
This was better than economists’ expectations of a small rise to 5.5%, a result which will be noted by the Reserve Bank as it starts thinking ahead to its March 5 monetary policy meeting.
The economy added a further 10,400 jobs over the month with total employment at 11,549,100.
The increase in employment was driven by increased part-time employment, up 20,200 people to 3,450,700 and was offset by decreased full-time employment, down 9,800 to 8,098,400 people.
The increase in total employment was mainly driven by an increase in female part-time employment. The number of people unemployed increased by 2,000 people to 659,600 in January. The ABS reported a seasonally adjusted labour force participation rate decrease of 0.1 percentage points to 65% in January.
CommSec economist Savanth Sebastian says there is "something for everyone in the latest jobs data". 
"The optimists could focus on the rise in overall employment and conclude all is fine. The pessimists would look at the third consecutive fall in full-time jobs coupled with the fall in hours worked and conclude something more concerning," he says.
"What is clear is the job market isn’t shooting the lights out but by no means is unemployment soaring. In a big picture sense the job market is in a holding pattern with a modest degree of softening.
"Yes, it was encouraging that employment grew but more forward looking indicators like job advertisements have suggested that further labour market gains may be more circumspect. In fact internet and newspaper job advertisements have fallen for 11 consecutive months, suggesting job growth is likely to flat line in coming months," he says.
"In a perverse way the unemployment rate is holding steady because more people gave up the search for work.
"Over the past year the missing ingredient in the domestic economy has been confidence, however there are anecdotal signs that there is an improvement in confidence. Rate cuts, healthy house prices and rising share markets should provide some level of encouragement to policymakers, households and businesses.
"The rate cuts in recent times will help to support activity in coming months and continue to provide businesses with a more breathing space – especially given that trading conditions are difficult," he says.
</body></html>

Unemployment unchanged at 5.4% in January but full-time employment falls: ABS

<html><body>
All immigration signs are pointing to a continued rise in the number of houses and apartments being bought by Chinese immigrants on Australia’s east coast.
According to the ABS, around 17,580 Chinese people settled permanently in Australia in 2012, up from 15,780 in 2011 and 14,720 in 2010.
Short term Chinese visitor arrival numbers - a forward indicator of demand for Australian residential property – are rising at even faster rate.
The ABS reports that Chinese short-stay visits to Australia have more then trebled over the past decade from 190,000 in 2002 to 630,000 in 2012.
Similarly, Indian short stay visits have jumped almost four fold from 45,000 to 160,000 over the same period.
Its not suprising as at the same time Australia's close proximity to Asia, the resilience of its economy driven by the mining boom, a transparent real estate market, and new apartment developments being actively marketed in China and other Asian markets are all enticing factors.
Last year alone there were an extra 85,000 visits from Chinese nationals - an increase of 16% over 2011 – with Chinese tourists now the second biggest visitor group behind New Zealanders, accounting for around one in 10 of the 6.1 million tourists who arrived for holiday or business purposes last year.
The ABS figures cover stays of up to 12 months, more than enough time for Chinese visitors that arrive in Australian on holiday or business to have a look at what’s on offer, in many cases decide they like what the country has to offer them and perhaps buy an apartment close to the Melbourne or Sydney CBD where their children will attend university or a family homes in suburbs in desirable school zones.
Evidence of this trend can be seen in Census 2011 figures, which show the number of Chinese-born people living in Australia has increased by 54% over the five year period since the last census from 207,000 to 319,000 while Indian-born resident numbers increased by 100% from 147,000 to 295,000 and now rank as the third and fourth biggest expat populations in Australia after British and New Zealanders.
Meriton’s Harry Triguboff says that most buyers of his new apartment blocks in Sydney, Brisbane and on the Gold Coast are from Asia while <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/asian-buyers-vital-to-australian-property-market-morry-schwartz/2011121552862">Morry Schwartz, who heads up Melbourne developer Pan Urban</a>, says they are vital to the success of future residential developments.
Making the permanent move even easier now for high-net worth Chinese and other foreign nationals is the recent launch of the <a target="_blank" href="/news">“Golden ticket” significant investor stream visa </a>that provides non-English speaking immigrants with a four-year visa to live in Australia if they invest $5 million.
Apart from Chinese and Indian tourists, visitor numbers from other Asian countries are also rising with Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, South Korea and Hong Kong all in the top 10 visiting nationality groups.
"New Zealand remains our biggest source of overseas short-term visitor arrivals with 1.2 million trips in 2012 or one in five visitors coming from there, but China is now in second place with one in ten, followed by the UK, the USA and Japan,” says Neil Scott, assistant director of demography at the ABS.
"The top five countries alone provided more than half of last year’s overseas visitors, and there were an extra 85,000 visits from China - an increase of 16%. The next largest increase in visitor numbers came from Malaysia, with a 9% increase.
</body></html>

Chinese signal property buying intentions in Australia as permanent arrivals numbers rise and visitor numbers jump dramatically

<html><body>
There is a notable lack of Sydney properties in this week's SQM list of the most discounted properties in Australia.
Sydney may have escaped the recent downturn in the property market and is still showing strong demand, according to SQM director Louis Christopher. 
"If there are certain areas of Australia that never or rarely make it to our most discounted property list, there has obviously got to be a little more than pure luck of the draw when it comes to these things," says Christoper. 
"Yes, we note that of late there has been absolutely no properties from Sydney feature on the list. Beside this possibly being a no-brainer in some respects, as the demand in Sydney often assures that the majority of homes do not need to be discounted by massive amounts to make a sale (excluding the luxury end of the market), this potentially shows that the downturn in Sydney was not as severe or as pronounced in comparison to other Australian localities (once again excluding the luxury end of the market)," he says.
Sydney stock is also being absorbed faster than stock in other areas, according to Christopher, with the number of properties on the market falling 13.1% year-on-year.
There are three Queensland properties on the most discounted list, with the plurality (four) in Tasmania.
 
1
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-tangalooma-104624146">7 Cassidae Crescent, Tangalooma, Queensland, 4025</a> (pictured)
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-livestock-qld-caboolture-7262420"></a>Days on the market: 1,399 Initial asking price: $1,495,000 Current asking price: $875,000 Reduction: 41%
 
2
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-other-tas-taranna-106879142">5756 Arthur Highway, Taranna, Tasmania, 7180</a>
Days on the market: 838 Initial asking price: $499,000 Current asking price: $299,000 Reduction: 40%
 
3
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-livestock-qld-caboolture-7262420">19 Lychee Drive, Caboolture, Queensland, 4510</a>
Days on the market: 979 Initial asking price: $949,000 Current asking price: $586,000 Reduction: 38%
 
4
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-wa-south+perth-110012197" target="_blank">6/152 Mill Point Road, South Perth, WA, 6151</a>
Days on the market: 308 Initial asking price: $2.5 million Current asking price: $1.55 million Reduction: 38%
 
5
<a href="https://www.domain.com.au/Property/For-Sale/Rural/QLD/Morayfield/?adid=2009282451" target="_blank">276 Forest Hills Drive, Morayfield, Queensland, 4506</a>
Days on market: 475 Initial asking price: $790,000 Current asking price: $499,000 Reduction: 37%
 
6
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-wa-two+rocks-106211228">15 Gretel, Two Rocks, WA, 6037</a>
Days on the market: 1,127 Initial asking price: $1.1 million Current asking price: $699,000 Reduction: 36%
 
7
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-tas-white+beach-106479093" target="_blank">588 White Beach Road, White Beach, Tasmania, 7184</a>
Days on the market: 979 Initial asking price: $780,000 Current asking price: $499,000 Reduction: 36%
 
8
<a href="https://www.domain.com.au/Property/For-Sale/House/TAS/Spring-Beach/?adid=2008672031" target="_blank">368 Rheban Road, Spring Beach, Tasmania, 7190</a>
Days on the market: 812 Initial asking price: $760,000 Current asking price: $500,000 Reduction: 34%
 
9
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-docklands-109665546" target="_blank">1601/8 Marmion Place, Docklands, VIC, 3008</a>
Days on the market: 336 Initial asking price: $830,000 Current asking price: $550,000 Reduction: 34%
 
10
<a href="https://www.domain.com.au/Property/For-Sale/House/TAS/Dunalley/?adid=2008215774" target="_blank">87 Arthur Highway, Dunalley, Tasmania, 7177</a>
Days on market: 1,078 Initial asking price: $285,000 Current asking price: $190,000 Reduction: 33%
 
SQM Research also offers a list of the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.sqmresearch.com.au/top100bargains.php" title="SQM Research">Top 100 Biggest Bargains in Australia </a>for sale.
</body></html>

cknowlton-QnEa6ntUYP

No NSW listings on most discounted list as Queensland home takes top spot: SQM Research

<html><body>
Auction volumes are slowly beginning to increase after a subdued couple of months over the end-of-year holiday season. Last week, there were 403 auctions held across the capital cities, and the clearance rate was recorded at 55.9%. Over the same week last year, there were 371 auctions in the capital cities with a clearance rate of 41.8%.
Melbourne recorded a clearance rate of 62.8% last week, with 122 auctions held across the city. Last year there were 121 auctions, and the clearance rate was 42.5%. A clearance rate of 74.4% was recorded for Sydney, where 82 auctions took place over the week. At the same time last year, Sydney recorded a clearance rate of 62.5% when 69 auctions were held across the capital city.
Over the coming week, there are 665 auctions scheduled. It is expected that within the next month, auction volumes will resume some normality.
Click to enlarge
<a href="/images/stories/2013/02/rpfeb5.gif" rel="shadowbox" title="Click to enlarge"><img src="/images/stories/2013/02/rpfeb5thumb.gif"></a>
</body></html>

po-LsXgBTHBmX

Auction volumes slowly on the rise after holiday break: RP Data

<html><body>
The Edwardian-era building that houses the Elephant Backpacker, across the road from Flinders Street Station, has been sold to an owner-operator for a price in excess of $6.6 million plus GST.
<img alt="elephant" height="353" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/02/elephant.jpg">
The freehold building, formerly called Ackmans Building, was built in 1910, around the same time as Flinders Street Station (1909) was constructed.
Heritage website <a target="_blank" href="https://www.walkingmelbourne.com/">walkingmelbourne.com.au</a> describes the building as a “classically inspired Edwardian building featuring Federation free-style motifs”.
It most likely bears the name of former pawnbroker-turned-retailer Henry Ackman, who ran a department store called Ackman's Monster Emporium on Smith Street in Fitzroy.
Located on the corner with Degraves Street, the property incorporates the ground floor entrance foyer and basement area together with three upper levels that are serviced by a single lift and stairwells.
The sale price included the business itself.
In May last year a historic <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/leisure/art-nouveau-backpackers-hostel-on-spencer-street-sells-for-%241075-million/2012051154659" target="_blank">1913-built Art Nouveau backpackers' hostel on the corner of Flinders Street and Spencer Street</a> sold for $10.75 million with an expected yield of more than 8%. 
The new owner of Elephant Backpackers operates a hostel in the Melbourne CBD and plans to continue operating the 240-bed backpacker hostel.
It currently generates an annual cashflow from accommodation and related services afforded to backpackers and travellers of around $1.4 million.
The building extends 45.6 metres along the eastern side of Degraves Street, the popular laneway and eating strip, which runs all the way to Flinders Lane.
It includes part ground floor and three upper floors measuring 2,141 square metres on a site measuring 584 square metres.
The sale does not include the shopfronts that run the length of the hostel that extends down Degraves Street, which are separately titled.
It was sold via an expressions of interest campaign by Kliger Wood agents Grant McKenzie and Russell Meerkin, who said it had attracted a significant number of offers.
“The vendors of the freehold and business are based interstate so the accommodation business has been operated efficiently prior to the sale under management,” says McKenzie
“The location of the building is the key factor, as it abuts Degraves Street probably the city’s most dynamic laneway and cafe precinct.
“In addition, the building itself is relatively under-developed.
“The basement for instance is used only as a resident communal kitchen for backpackers, as a laundry facility and break-out area.
“It could in future be utilised as a bar or restaurant and could also provide direct pedestrian access under Flinders Street to the Station and on across the River to Southbank.
“Two of the upper levels provide older style accommodation with a mix of single and double rooms, with dormitories offering four to six bed accommodation," he says.
“The third level has been extensively renovated as 18 flash pack rooms, 11 with en suites inclusive of shower, basin and toilet with three eight-bed dormitories and another two six-bedroom dormitories.
Subject to the owner obtaining the necessary permits and planning permission, the building has the potential to have additional floors added.
</body></html>

Melbourne backpackers' hostel building the Elephant with faded Edwardian charm sells to owner-operator

<html><body>
Given that it is impossible to move beyond the fact that there will be an ever-increasing focus on the social environment, what are some of the key issues that the leaders in this field suggest we need to engage?
Firstly, there is the clear need to appreciate that marketers in every field, and that includes ours, will need stop trying to manage and lead the social conversation. We need to be a participant adding to the value of the conversation.
As social media begins to grow in its relevance for project marketers, we need to understand that with the unprecedented content being generated by people and business, the need for engaging content, relevance and appealing content is now greater than ever.
Social media empowers the consumer
As business continues to play its part in social media, one trend will continue and that’s the empowerment of all consumers. It’s well accepted that consumer reviews are already very powerful, and our challenge is to win and earn the loyalty of our particular markets.
Social media is very appealing to consumers because of the ability to easily share information. If you like to share a yarn it’s a reality that we need to be comfortable with, direct and understand.
As consumers become more and more active in their use of social media, every project we work with will need to make a value call to create a social media platform along with other digital activity, or not. The size of a project and the funds available to produce content will be important, but clearly there is a downside if the job is poorly done.
Focus more on building your email list
I am sure that one area we all have in common is the desire to have more potential buyers subscribe to our communications feed by email.
Studies have shown time and time again that if you want to engage and audience including buyers, they are most likely going to come from your email lists. And I’ve found that to be very true – and your email list is truly the only list you own. It’s yours.
I also suggest that with so many social media options – Twitter, Google+, <a href="https://www.socialmediaexaminer.com/improve-facebook-engagement/">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.socialmediaexaminer.com/using-pinterest-for-business/">Pinterest</a> and <a href="https://www.socialmediaexaminer.com/instagram/">Instagram</a> – that have to be considered, we must still be active in the way email lists are managed and valued.
Which social sites to use
As social media users become increasingly savvy, they will focus their social media time on fewer sites. As project marketers we will need to follow their lead and understand the best options for our projects.
Facebook and Twitter are both well established with consumers, as is LinkedIn with the business community.
Google+, <a href="https://www.socialmediaexaminer.com/26-tips-for-using-pinterest-for-business/">Pinterest</a> and other platforms continue to grow and so the reality is that users and marketers will have to decide where to spend time, money and energy. There’s only so much time in a day, and the level of activity is on the increase, and so we need to keep asking what gains attention?
For a majority of projects a solid presence in one or two channels looks to me to be the best option, chasing to many options could be a waste of energy. With the help of consultants we will have to make some choices as to where our social media and digital expenditure will have the maximum impact.
The central role of content marketing
More of our clients and projects will need to realise that unless they embrace content marketing soon, they may well lose traction in their market sector.
We are already seeing businesses racing to make up for lost time on the web. While this may have been a concern for some local retailers, we need to take a close look at our own backyards.
I suggest that some effort needs to go into quality project blogs, eBooks, videos and social media content and that good solid and workable content plans will be the name of the game if we are to reap the full potential of social media options.
Social media advertising
As we need to reach a larger audience and build up an engaged community then planning future budgets that use social advertising may become more common across project marketing.
As we deal with time more targets, with access to so many media options our ability to grow organically is going to be limited and so wider engagement across all media options looks appealing.
Consider the use of podcasts to increase engagement
With more than 1 billion smartphone users and hundred of millions more just waiting to be sold, the consumer demand for quality podcasts is growing, and it is an area that might be worth considering.
It takes me back to another way of storytelling, and now with the power of social media behind us anyone with a (good) story or yarn to tell can broadcast it to a big audience and with planning target the right audience.
Conclusion – at least for now
The results of this will always have the potential of being good and bad. Consumers will continue to be better informed than they ever have been in making a purchase, and this clearly applies to property.
In our market competition will grow fiercer and in order to meet the expectations and experiences of today’s ‘connected consumer’ we need to make sure we are ahead of the curve.
In the immediate future more industries will get serious about social media as they go about building their digital portfolios. We will all need to provide proof of how social media marketing as a whole is benefiting clients through the use of various analytics programs.
With the spread of digital marketing it is easy to expect to see an increase the use of social media and related content marketing. When we look at Project Marketing budgets, this may be at the expense of other forms of advertising to attract prospects, generate leads and sales.
Well-managed content marketing can be a very cost-effective media, but to do this it will be necessary to tick of all of the key topics we have been discussing and to continue to explore the options.
If you’re keen to do some more personal research have a look at <a href="https://www.socialmediaexaminer.com/" target="_blank">socialmediaexaminer.com</a>. It’s a source I use, but as always keep in mind the particular needs of our industry.
With professional help and market awareness, we must continue to take a more integrated approach with social media becoming an extension of key channel strategies and marketing functions, while we meet the needs and expectations of our clients and customers.
Peter Chittenden is managing director for residential of <a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="https://www.colliers.com.au/Colliers%20Corporate/Residential.aspx">Colliers International.</a>
</body></html>

Latest Buying Insights

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

Editor's Picks

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

Latest Buying Insights

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

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News