Abadeen has released the whole-floor penthouse crowning its recently completed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/park-residences-cremorne-2-sutherland-street-cremorne-nsw-2090">Park Residences</a> development in Cremorne, bringing the near-300 sqm residence to market for the first time.

Occupying the entire top floor of the boutique Lower North Shore development, the penthouse includes 221 sqm of internal living and a 74 sqm wraparound terrace, with a prized north-facing aspect taking in views across Middle Harbour.

The residence has been completed and fully furnished following a collaboration between Abadeen Executive Chairman Justin Brown and internationally recognised interior designer Jack Freeman, Founder and Managing Director of FREEMAN &amp; CO.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/abadeen">Abadeen</a> and Freeman approached the penthouse as a finished home, sourcing furniture, artwork, lighting and objects from Australia and overseas.

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Pieces from Parisian design house Pierre Augustin Rose sit alongside contemporary artworks and bespoke lighting, with Freeman drawing on recent visits to PAD Paris and Salone del Mobile Milano for the final collection.

Brown said the aim was to create a penthouse that felt more like a large-scale private home than a traditional apartment.

"The experience begins the moment the lift doors open. You're welcomed into an elegant dining room before the home opens into an extraordinary living space framed by sun-drenched harbour views.

"Every time someone walks through the front door they pause. It's not just the view, it's the incredible sense of space, the warmth created by the northern sunlight that fills the interiors, and the way every room connects so effortlessly.

"It has all the proportions of a luxury home, while delivering the effortless lifestyle and personalised experience of living in a world-class six-star hotel, combined with the simplicity and convenience of apartment living."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378713]

A secure lift provides exclusive access to the penthouse level, opening to a dedicated arrival foyer and dining area before the residence expands into its main living and entertaining spaces.

Floor-to-ceiling glazing runs across the northern side of the home, connecting the interiors with the terrace and Middle Harbour outlook.

The penthouse also features a fireplace and substantial chef's kitchen, while the wraparound terrace has been designed to accommodate both everyday outdoor living and larger-scale entertaining.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378720]

Freeman said the interiors had been deliberately kept restrained to complement the scale, natural light and outlook already established by the architecture.

"The penthouse is a serene study in quiet luxury," Freeman said.

"The interior pairs soft, sculptural forms with warm timber, pale stone and a restrained neutral palette. Curated artwork and metallic accents add depth, while abundant natural light creates a calm, effortlessly refined atmosphere. In my world, less is always more."

Freeman said the approach was centred around collecting individual pieces rather than simply decorating the apartment.

"Every material, every object and every piece of furniture has been curated with intention. I am a true believer in collecting versus decorating.

"The architecture already provided extraordinary natural light, remarkable volume and an uninterrupted connection to Middle Harbour. Our role was to complement those qualities with unique one-of-a-kind pieces of fine art and collectible design sourced from recent travels around the world."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378694]

Among the collection are solid bronze sculptures by Lorenzo Quinn, alongside a curated crystalware collection and pieces sourced from international design fairs.

Park Residences sits opposite Cammeray Golf Club, Cammeray Croquet Club and Grand Slam Tennis Cammeray, around 300 metres from Neutral Bay Village and its established collection of restaurants, cafés and retail.

Brown said the combination of a whole-floor floorplan, northern aspect and proximity to Neutral Bay was becoming increasingly difficult to find on the Lower North Shore.

"Completed whole-floor penthouses with a sun-drenched north-facing aspect and sweeping Middle Harbour views are exceptionally rare," Brown said.

"Add a quiet position opposite golf, croquet and tennis facilities, a level walk to Neutral Bay Village and only minutes to the CBD, and you have a lifestyle that's incredibly difficult to replicate.

"This is a home that offers the privacy and generosity of a luxury residence together with the convenience of one of Sydney's best-connected harbourside locations."

The penthouse will be exclusively marketed by SRM Residential.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=114246]

Joel Robinson

Abadeen unveils penthouse at Park Residences in Cremorne

New Brisbane developer Dalcott has unveiled Marrone, the first of three residential projects it is planning in and around Browning Street in South Brisbane.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/marrone-south-brisbane-39-browning-street-south-brisbane-qld-4101">Marrone</a> will comprise 97 predominantly two- and three-bedroom apartments, with larger residences aimed squarely at the owner-occupier market.

The project will sit in a quiet pocket of South Brisbane between South Bank and West End, close to the restaurants, cultural attractions and riverfront amenity that have driven the suburb's continued transformation.

Dalcott is targeting buyers looking for more space and amenity than has traditionally been offered in the inner-city apartment market, particularly downsizers and professionals wanting to remain close to the city.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149951 project_image_fid=377072]

Resident facilities will be concentrated around an extensive rooftop amenity offering, including a swimming pool, spa, infrared sauna, warm and cold magnesium plunge pools, private lounge, dining room and outdoor entertaining areas.

Dalcott Managing Director Lachlan Cottee said South Brisbane's combination of lifestyle, connectivity and established character had been central to the approach to Marrone.

“South Brisbane offers a combination of lifestyle, connectivity and character that’s difficult to replicate elsewhere in Brisbane,” Cottee said.

“Our focus has been on creating homes that feel connected to that environment while providing the level of design, functionality and quality that today's owner-occupiers expect.”

The residences will feature an expressive material palette. Italian Calacatta Viola marble, known for its deep burgundy veining, will be paired with aged brass tapware, Chestnut engineered timber flooring and Tuscan Oak joinery.

<img alt="Marrone" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b8d833da-3b30-496a-ae30-07bdff371b50" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%2010.52.35%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=P6DAgOfaQzIXljKKK5j3e5NhWtrHIu9G" />

Bathrooms will feature Nara Japanese ceramics and glass bricks, while clay, walnut and brass lighting will be used throughout the apartments.

Dalcott has appointed Realm Projects, led by Managing Director Shane Foley, to handle sales and marketing following previous sold-out collaborations between the groups.

Foley said the Brisbane apartment buyer had become increasingly focused on the quality of the home itself rather than simply securing an inner-city address.

“We expect to see strong demand from buyers who still want all the advantages of inner-city living but aren’t prepared to compromise on the quality of their home,” Foley said.

“Many will be downsizers looking to leave behind the maintenance of a traditional family home without giving up the space they enjoy, while others are likely to be professionals wanting a residence that reflects the way they live today.”

“Marrone responds directly to that demand, with generous floorplans, exceptional resident amenity and a location that places some of Brisbane’s best dining, entertainment and cultural attractions within walking distance.”

<img alt="Marrone" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="61f7b22f-899e-4c0f-940a-7d3ab1bfb93a" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%2010.52.44%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=PvN1JYxBgUpyCB7efKo52WGdSDs9nmim" />

Marrone will be the first project delivered as part of Dalcott's broader investment in the precinct.

It will be followed by La Terra, a boutique project comprising penthouse-style, single-level apartments on a northeast corner site with extensive resident amenity and city views.

Cottee said Marrone represented the first stage of the group's longer-term plans for the area.

Dalcott was established in 2025 by Lachlan Cottee and Ben Dalgliesh, combining development and construction capability under an integrated model and focusing on architecturally considered residential projects.

Marrone will initially be offered through a pre-release registration campaign ahead of its broader public launch.

Dalcott targets owner-occupiers with South Brisbane debut Marrone

Parnell Developments is the latest to seek significant uplift through the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority on a Strathfield site previously approved for a much smaller apartment development.

Parnell has sought approval for a 32-storey mixed use tower across&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/7-lyons-street-strathfield-nsw-2135">3-7 Lyons Street and 18 Parnell Street</a>, a&nbsp;1,857 sqm site around 400 metres from Strathfield Station. The building would yield 160 apartments, 15 per cent of which will be dedicated affordable as per the government mandate for buildings seeking additional uplift.

Approved previously was a nine-storey building back in 2022 with just over 30 apartments. That approval came prior to the project being&nbsp;progressively reconsidered as planning policy shifted toward greater density around transport hubs.

<img alt="Strathfield" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c5af5281-a643-4eb2-b8c4-0081b59c04c7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%209.16.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=37bd3mI7rHNpThOV_75VO8xsGFwWOi1u" />

Turner has designed the latest building that would replace&nbsp;existing detached homes across the four lots.

The apartment mix comprises 22 one-bedroom apartments, 107 two-bedroom and two-bedroom-plus configurations, and 31 apartments with three or more bedrooms. The scheme also includes 203 car spaces across six basement levels and 58 bicycle spaces.

The proposal has been designed around a three-storey podium addressing Lyons Street, with the tower rising above and stepping toward its upper levels.

Turner said the podium was deliberately scaled to respond to the existing street, while the taller element has been designed as part of the emerging skyline anticipated around Strathfield Town Centre and the wider Homebush transport-oriented development precinct.

The Lyons Street frontage would have a more active, pedestrian-focused character, incorporating the commercial tenancy, landscaping and a brick-framed podium with an awning.

<img alt="Strathfield" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="14b20874-b8c3-4ac7-bc03-92be9a69fb78" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%209.17.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=av.9TxtqIRTC6v3PkSuu1rL9rreWoe2h" />

Parnell Street, which faces the railway corridor, has been given a different architectural treatment, with double-height breeze blocks, landscaping and communal areas used to soften the interface with the rail infrastructure.

The tower itself uses curved and recessed facade elements, with wave-like indentations across the northern elevation breaking the building into three vertical forms.

A palette of grey concrete, brick and breeze blocks is complemented by clay and terracotta accents, while the upper tower adopts a lighter expression through articulated slab edges, vertical fins and recessed glazing.

Residents would have access to 467 sqm of communal open space spread across three levels. The ground floor would accommodate the more active resident areas, including barbecue and group gathering spaces and an internal communal room capable of being used for working from home.

A more passive viewing deck is proposed at level three, overlooking the ground-level landscaping and neighbouring tennis courts, while a rooftop "sunset deck" at level 30 would provide another social and relaxation space.

<img alt="Parnell" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c3dce401-a80f-4682-8471-4caa01180880" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%209.17.34%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=Xyo8JVqbOhSJXNy6Ih.1cHL.O6i0bGR." />

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Strathfield has been earmarked for substantial change through the Strathfield Town Centre planning work and the nearby Homebush TOD precinct.

Turner's report says the project has been designed to act as a transition between the existing low and mid-rise development surrounding the site and the taller built form expected to emerge across the town centre.

The proposal is being assessed as State Significant Development under the HDA pathway, alongside the concurrent request to amend the Burwood Local Environmental Plan.

First look: New apartment tower pitched for Strathfield Town Centre precinct

An $18 million penthouse has hit the market in Main Beach as construction tops out on La Mer, the $155 million apartment development rising just metres from the beach.

Spanning around 600 sqm across the top two levels of the 29-storey tower on Main Beach Parade, the four-bedroom penthouse is one of the latest eight-figure residences to test the upper end of the Gold Coast apartment market.

Its launch comes amid continued activity at the very top of the market, following the $30 million off-the-plan sale of a Burleigh Heads penthouse earlier this year, which surpassed the Gold Coast's previous $24 million apartment record set in 2023.

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/la-mer-main-beach-3580-main-beach-parade-main-beach-qld-4217">La Mer penthouse</a> has been designed as a private residence in the sky, with 360-degree views spanning the ocean, Broadwater, hinterland and Gold Coast skyline.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378731]

All four bedrooms have ensuites, while the ocean-facing master retreat occupies around half of the upper level and includes its own lounge, private balcony, two walk-in wardrobes and an oversized ensuite with a freestanding stone bath positioned to take in the views.

The residence also features a kitchen designed to accommodate a private chef, a 3.6-metre island bench, expansive butler's pantry, wine cellar and integrated bar.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378732]

A rooftop pool and substantial outdoor entertaining area with its own kitchen sit above the residence, while a grand staircase connects the two internal levels. The penthouse also has its own express lift.

OTP Group Director James Elliott, who is marketing La Mer, said the penthouse was expected to appeal to high-net-worth buyers seeking either a permanent Main Beach residence or Gold Coast holiday home.

“The La Mer penthouse represents exceptional value, considering its quality design, size, privacy and location, not to mention the 360-degree views capturing the beach and Gold Coast Broadwater,” Elliott said.

“We’re anticipating interest from high-net-worth individuals and couples seeking a residence or holiday home in the sought-after village enclave of Main Beach, taking advantage of the unprecedented growth underway in the area and neighbouring The Spit.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378736]

La Mer is being developed by developer-builder ODUS and Nazero, in partnership with funder Metrics Credit Partners.

ODUS Director Byron Sakha said topping out the tower had provided the opportunity to release the project's most significant residence.

“We’ve worked with internationally-recognised studio Sici Design on the penthouse interiors, with a focus on ensuring it isn’t luxury for luxury’s sake. Every element has been thoughtfully designed to enhance quality of life for those who call it home,” Sakha said.

“The views are the hero of virtually every space, but we’ve given equal attention to the fittings and finishes, so every detail exudes elegance and refinement.”

Sici Design Founder and Director Maria Papadopoulos said the extensive views became an integral part of the interior design rather than simply something the residence was designed around.

“The views weren't something we designed around, they became part of the design itself, with the true luxury of La Mer in its feeling of peace, calm and wellbeing,” Papadopoulos said.

“Luxury isn't defined by how something looks, but how it makes you feel, and we believe a luxurious home should be beautiful to live in, not stressful to maintain.”

The interiors combine Austral Dream Dolomite natural stone and travertine with timber flooring and a restrained coastal palette.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378734]

Designed by Plus Studio, La Mer is one of the more boutique additions to the rapidly changing Main Beach apartment market.

The tower comprises just 24 full-floor, three-bedroom plus multipurpose room apartments below the two-level penthouse, giving the project a considerably lower density than many of the larger towers being developed across the Gold Coast.

Residents will have access to a pool and spa, gym, sauna, barbecue facilities, private sun lounges, yoga lawn and outdoor beach shower.

The penthouse has been released as part of the final collection of residences at La Mer, with remaining apartments priced from $4.3 million.

Construction is expected to complete later this year, with a fully furnished display apartment now open on level four.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=95606]

ODUS releases $18 million penthouse crowning La Mer Main Beach

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/far-east-consortium">Far East Consortium</a> is preparing to commence construction on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/640-bourke-street-melbourne-640-bourke-street-melbourne-vic-3000">640 Bourke Street</a> this October, marking the next milestone for the Melbourne CBD development and its higher-end Eliza Collection.

Spanning levels 44 to 68 of the 68-storey <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>-designed tower, the Eliza Collection has been conceived as a lower-density offering within the broader development, with only five apartments on each floor, dedicated lift access and a collection of resident spaces reserved exclusively for Eliza Collection residents.

The Eliza Collection forms part of Far East Consortium's broader move toward larger-format residences at 640 Bourke Street, where the number of apartments was reduced from earlier plans as apartment sizes increased.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=365685]

"What it's meant for 640 Bourke is we've actually reduced the number of apartments. We've increased the overall size of the apartments. We don't have any studios in here, and what that does for a project is it elevates it," Far East Consortium Director of Sales and Marketing Lauren Sheldon said.

Rothelowman Associate Jun Chang said the design process provided an opportunity to create more generous floorplans.

"We were given the opportunity to be more generous. The apartments became bigger and squarer than any other apartments which had been designed in the CBD before that."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=368869]

That thinking carries through to the Eliza Collection, where the residences have been designed around the space and functionality associated with a larger home, but positioned high above the centre of Melbourne.

Kitchens are equipped with Gaggenau appliances, a butler's pantry, temperature-controlled wine cabinet and sculptural pendant lighting, while engineered timber flooring, stone and porcelain finishes and custom cabinetry feature throughout the broader interiors.

Privacy and security are another point of distinction. Eliza Collection residents have dedicated lift access, while 640 Bourke Street will provide concierge services and secure resident parking. Short-stay accommodation, including Airbnb, will not be permitted within the development.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=365689]

Eliza Collection residents will also have exclusive access to selected amenity spaces across levels one and three of the restored Eliza Tinsley building. These include the Salon with grand piano, an art therapy room, private dining rooms and treatment rooms.

They sit within more than 3,000 sqm of amenity planned across 640 Bourke Street, alongside facilities including a pool, gym, whisky lounge and further social and wellness spaces.

The Eliza Tinsley building itself is central to the wider project's identity. Rather than treating the existing Eliza Tinsley façade as a separate element, Rothelowman used it as a starting point for the architecture of the new tower, with the historic building to accommodate the project's gallery and lobby.

"It's a significant asset and wants to be celebrated and experienced by all residents every single time they go in and out of the building," Rothelowman Principal Stuart Marsland said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=368872]

The tower will rise behind the retained heritage building at 640 Bourke Street, placing residents within walking distance of Southern Cross Station, Flagstaff Gardens, Queen Victoria Market and the Docklands waterfront.

With construction scheduled to begin in October, Far East Consortium has established an onsite display gallery at 640 Bourke Street, including fully built apartments that allow the project's layouts, materials and finishes to be inspected at full scale.

A fully built Eliza Collection apartment is also available to view at the display suite by appointment ahead of the planned October construction commencement.

Eligible purchasers who buy before construction commences can secure the full available off-the-plan stamp duty savings, subject to eligibility and applicable conditions.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=509]

Far East Consortium brings Eliza Collection to 640 Bourke Street ahead of October construction start

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?

For most Australians, buying an apartment is one of the biggest financial decisions they'll ever make

The location, floorplan and price are often the first considerations, but in recent years another question has become increasingly important: who is actually delivering the project?

A series of high-profile builder collapses, construction delays and defect concerns have fundamentally changed how many Victorians approach buying off the plan. The collapse of Porter Davis in 2023, which reportedly left around 1,700 homes unfinished, became one of the most visible examples of the risks that can emerge when a construction company fails. <a href="https://www.equifax.com.au/sites/default/files/lpassets/pdf/Final-Business-Market-Pulse-June-Sector-Deep-Dive-Report-2.pdf">Similar challenges across the broader construction sector</a> have left buyers asking more questions before signing a contract.

As Victoria continues encouraging higher-density housing to address supply shortages, transparency is becoming just as important as location or price.

One tool increasingly entering the conversation is the <a href="https://icirt.com/">Independent Construction Industry Rating Tool (iCIRT)</a>, an independent assessment framework designed to help buyers better understand the developer or builder behind a project. Originally developed by Equifax in consultation with government and industry as part of NSW's Construct NSW reforms, the system has since expanded nationally.

<h2 data-end="1519" data-section-id="7nmx3" data-start="1492">What is an iCIRT rating?</h2>

Most Australians are familiar with independent ratings in everyday life.

We compare ANCAP safety ratings before buying a car. We look at Health Star Ratings in supermarkets. Banks rely on credit assessments when lending money.

Until recently, however, there has been very little independent information available to help apartment buyers assess the business responsible for delivering a residential project.

That gap is what iCIRT was designed to address.

Builders, developers and other construction professionals with an iCIRT rating have demonstrated high-trust characteristics through an independent, evidence-based assessment across six criteria: Character, Capability, Conduct, Capacity, Capital and Counterparties. This involves a rigorous review of financial health, past project track record, and ethical conduct. Crucially, an iCIRT rating could help provide property buyers with confidence that they are working with a professional who has demonstrated the capability, capacity, and willingness to return and rectify issues.

Importantly, iCIRT is not a recommendation to purchase a particular property, nor is it a traditional credit rating. It is an independent assessment framework designed to provide objective information about a construction business using a <a href="https://icirt.com/sites/default/files/2025-08/iCIRT-Methodology-Issue1-May-2021.pdf">published methodology</a>.

The system has been widely adopted in New South Wales, where more than one-third of medium and large residential builders and developers now hold an iCIRT rating, representing over two-thirds of the state's residential building market by value as of 2025/26.

<h2 data-end="3126" data-section-id="h6ohtj" data-start="3084">Why buyers are doing more due diligence</h2>

For many buyers, particularly those purchasing off the plan, the biggest risk isn't whether they'll like the kitchen finishes.

It's whether the project will be delivered on time, to the expected quality, and by a company capable of completing the development.

<a href="https://icirt.com/sites/default/files/2026-07/iCIRT%202025%20Consumer%20Survey%20Report%20v05.pdf">Consumer research commissioned by iCIRT</a> found more than half of respondents believed current protections do not adequately safeguard buyers from builder insolvencies or defective projects. Other research found 88 per cent of prospective buyers would seek independent ratings or due diligence before purchasing, while 90 per cent said trust in construction professionals is essential.

That doesn't mean buyers should rely on a single rating alone.

Independent legal advice, understanding the contract, and seeking financial advice all remain important parts of the due diligence process.

However, an independent assessment can provide another source of information alongside those traditional checks.

<h2 data-end="4138" data-section-id="pquzxc" data-start="4094">Trust is becoming a competitive advantage</h2>

The conversation isn't only changing for buyers.

Developers are also recognising that trust has become an increasingly important part of the sales process.

Five years ago, purchasers typically asked about floorplans, finishes and settlement dates.

Today, sales teams are increasingly being asked about the developer's experience, financial stability, previous projects and construction partners.

For companies with strong governance and established delivery records, an independent iCIRT rating provides another way to demonstrate those credentials before buyers even visit a display suite.

According to Equifax, the assessment can also help businesses drive sales and <a href="https://icirt.com/resources-for-business/icirt-rating-helps-scion-secure-high-value-projects">secure high-value projects</a>, as well as identify operational improvements and <a href="https://icirt.com/resources-for-business/mirvac-reinforces-brand-trust-and-quality-independent-icirt-rating">attract top talent</a>.

<h2 data-end="4962" data-section-id="1j54ng5" data-start="4912">Beyond buyers: lenders are paying attention too</h2>

The influence of independent construction ratings is also extending beyond consumers.

According to Stamford Capital's Real Estate Debt Capital Markets Survey, an increasing number of lenders now incorporate iCIRT ratings into their due diligence processes when assessing residential development finance applications.

The survey found lender adoption has continued to rise, with many respondents saying independent assessments provide additional insight into governance, counterparties and delivery capability beyond traditional financial analysis. Some lenders also reported declining funding applications where businesses had poor or no ratings.

As construction costs remain elevated and access to development finance becomes more selective, demonstrating credibility is becoming increasingly valuable.

<h2 data-end="5801" data-section-id="1qazuxs" data-start="5772">What it means for Victoria</h2>

Victoria's apartment market is entering a new phase.

The state is seeking to accelerate higher-density housing while simultaneously introducing reforms aimed at improving confidence in residential construction.

For buyers, that means there are more tools available than ever before to research the businesses behind a project.

For developers, it signals that transparency is becoming another point of differentiation in an increasingly competitive market.

Buyers are asking more questions than ever before and increasingly expecting independent information, not just marketing material, before making one of the biggest financial commitments of their lives.

Find out how to get iCIRT rated <a href="https://www.icirt.com/sites/default/files/2025-08/iCIRT-Infographic-Assessment-Process-Final.pdf">here</a>.

<hr data-end="6469" data-start="6466" />
The information contained in this article is general in nature and does not constitute personal, financial, legal or tax advice. It does not take into account your personal objectives, financial situation or needs. Therefore, you should consider whether the information is appropriate to your circumstances before acting on it and, where appropriate, seek independent professional advice.

This article contains links to third-party websites. These links are provided for convenience only. Equifax Australia does not control and is not responsible for the content, accuracy or privacy practices of external sites.

Copyright © 2026 Equifax Australia Information Services and Solutions Pty Ltd. All rights reserved.

Buying off-the-plan in Melbourne? How independent iCIRT ratings are set to change Victorian property

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During the week I received scores of emails from cash investors who are either retired or are on the verge of it and are alarmed at the direction of official interest rates, which hit 3% last week.
These people are alarmed because with inflation at 2% (and core inflation at 2.8%) and the average cash yield from banks at 3.5% (soon to be lower), their investments aren’t earning much more than the cost of living.
A lot of these people have retreated from shares due to their volatility but now find themselves relying on either money in transaction accounts or term deposits.
In the latest Australian Taxation Office breakdown of the investments in self-managed superannuation funds, the largest asset class is “cash and term deposits”, at 30.7%.
The retreat from shares into government-guaranteed cash has made people feel safe in the short term, but now also vulnerable.
So what to do? Here are some thoughts:
1. Transaction accounts, cash management accounts, term deposits and accelerated savings accounts are all capital guaranteed by the government up to $250,000 per person. They are all zero risk.
2. You can find a better yield than a transaction account’s 0% without taking on more risk. I’m sure that the institution you save with has another product that rewards savers by paying them up to 4%, and it also has term deposits that pay more than that.
3. You can diversify your investments within capital-guaranteed investments; you don’t need all your cash in one account. Why not have a lump of funds constantly being rolled over in 90-day term deposits, and some others in one-year TDs? Then have a large amount of your savings in a high-yield online savings account, and have the interest paid into your transaction account.
4. Don’t forget bonds. Typically they come in the form of government bonds, corporate bonds, bank bonds and bank covered bonds. Many bonds are low-risk debt products that yield good returns, and retail investors can invest in them, usually in a retail fund environment. Some of these funds have been returning as high as 7-8%t p.a. to their investors.
5. Get advice. From what I am seeing, cash investors are staying away from advisers or they’re unhappy with the amount of interest shown in cash investors by advisers. I suggest that instead of dropping out of financial advice altogether, you search for a planner with an interest in cash investment strategies and then adopt a more active approach. Don’t make cash a ‘set-and-forget’ option.
If you look at all of the cash and bond options, your available yields move from 0% to 8% p.a.
As interest rates move down, your job is to find more yield with little risk. I’ll be interested to see how you go. <a target="_blank" href="mailto:mark@ybr.com.au">Send me an email</a>.
Mark Bouris is executive chairman of <a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="https://www.ybr.com.au/">Yellow Brick Road</a>, a financial services company offering home loans, financial planning, accounting and tax, and insurance.
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Five tips to increasing your savings in a low-interest-rate environment

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This Saturday will be the final round of Property Tycoon for 2012, and we have some belting properties going under the hammer.
There’s a website, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertytycoon.com.au/">www.propertytycoon.com.au</a>, where punters can guess what they think properties will sell for at their weekend auctions in Melbourne and Sydney. This season <a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="https://www.propertytycoon.com.au/join-league/S7S123C487R8OOQF" style="font-size: 14px;">Property Observer readers have their own competition, which you can access here</a><a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.propertytycoon.com.au/join-league/S7S123C487R8OOQF">.</a> The winner of the overall competition will win $1,000.
Dean Gilbert from Marshall White will have a big auction on his hands when he calls for bids at 14 Jessamine Avenue, <a href="/news">Prahran</a> (pictured below).
<img src="/images/stories/2012/12/jessamin.jpg">
Winton was built in 1929 and lies in one of Prahran's most tightly held heritage-listed leafy pockets, only metres from Lumley Gardens and High Street's cafes and shops. The totally captivating solid-brick English-style residence sits on almost 800 square metres of land and is surrounded by spectacular botanic garden setting.
Many buyers will want this one, but they will need more than $2 million up their sleeves to secure it.
In Sydney it will be the receivers from Ferrier Hodgson that will be calling the shots at the auction of 1/64 Ocean, <a target="_blank" href="/news">Woollahrra</a>.
The townhouse is located in one of Woollahra’s premier tree-lined streets opposite Chiswick Park. In a block of only four, the property has three bedrooms and comes with the all-important basement lock-up garage.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/12/oceanst.jpg">
Downsizing baby boomers are expected to be out in force. Peter Starr from McGrath Real Estate says the expectations of the receivers are closely aligned with where he believes the market value lies. He is confident this one will sell under the hammer in excess of $1.5 million.
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A tightly held heritage Prahran property and a Woollahra receivership sale end auction tipping competition season

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13/26 Bayshore Drive Byron Bay, NSW, 2481 <img width="470" src="/images/stories/2012/12/bayshore.jpg">
Just one kilometre from the beach, this single-level, two-bedroom villa is currently tenanted at $380 per week. It includes a single lock-up garage, and listing agent Brett Connable of Ray White says it presents a "great investment opportunity".
Connable <a target="_blank" href="https://myproperty.raywhite.com/PropertyDetails.aspx?id=869488">is marketing the property </a>with price hopes of $329,000 plus, and if it sells for that price, that would secure an investor a gross rental yield of 6% at its current rent, above the gross rental yield for Byron Bay units of 5.3%, according to RP Data. The gross rental yield does not consider the costs of maintaining the property, including council rates and other fees such as water bills and managing agent fees.
<a href="https://calc.washingtonbrown.com.au/wbdcalculator/calculator.aspx?RID=HPCAZOPTTT" target="_blank">Washington Brown</a> estimates the first-year tax depreciation deduction to be $8,000 and over five years to be $29,000.
The median unit price in Byron Bay fell 20.7% in the past year but rose 11.4% in the past five years, according to RP Data.
For more information about prices and yields in <a target="_blank" href="/news">Byron Bay, see the RP Data suburb page.</a>
The property will go to auction Saturday, December 8 at 10am.
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Friday form guide: Yields of up to 6% in Byron Bay

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Malaysian developer Mammoth Empire has secured a prime development opportunity in the northern fringe of Melbourne’s central business district, opposite a 55-storey residential tower it already has under construction.
The current low-rise 398-406 Elizabeth Street site was acquired from a Melbourne family for $15.1 million.
The 1,029-square-metre site on the corner of A’Beckett and Elizabeth streets is on the adjoining corner where the $250 million MY80 tower is under construction.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/12/my80.jpg">
MY80 is a 55-level glass tower on the corner of Elizabeth and A'Beckett streets with plans for the architecturally striking, 173-metre high rise to have a private rooftop nightclub-bar and lounge on its 53rd floor (artist's impression above). Retail tenants in the single-storey building latest acquisition are delivering a low passing yield of a little less than 2%, hence the site was offered by CBRE agents Mark Wizel and Josh as one for residential redevelopment. Its sale price was one of the highest per square metre prices for CBD land in the past year.
Over the past few years, Malaysian, Singaporean and Chinese-based developers have snapped up $385 million of prime CBD residential sites in the Victorian capital, with sites including the Fulton Lane project, where Malaysian developer SP Setia is building 800 apartments at 151 Franklin Street.
Last month a Malaysian investor purchased the CBD corner occupied for 57 years by the clothes manufacturer and retailer Fletcher Jones.
The 1 Queen Street asset – a double-storey showroom on a 746-square-metre block at the north-west corner of Flinders Street – sold for $11 million to an investor who is expected to lease the existing asset but resell after a redevelopment permit has been obtained.
The Queen Street sale price reflected a land rate per square metre of $14,745 was pushed up by residential developers, in the mix of 11 that submitted formal offers for the property to Savills.
“We are fielding continued interest from offshore developers wanting to acquire large development sites in the Melbourne CBD,” Wizel says.
“Interest from publicly listed Malaysian development companies remains particularly strong, with active mainland Chinese developers not far behind.”
The property services company PDS Group, which is co-ordinating the MY80 project, also negotiated the latest deal for Mammoth, which was attracted by the precinct close to Melbourne’s universities.
At 206 A'Beckett Street, the Malaysian developer recently completed its 25-level high rise with 280 apartments, with the name Pegasus Apartment/Hotel.
It was never marketed for sale in Australia when the off-the-plan sales took place at the time when federal government foreign ownership legislation  by the Labor government allowed 100% ownership by offshore interests in new residential projects.
The site was the former car dealership, near Flagstaff Gardens.
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Malaysia-based Mammoth Empire the latest Asian developer to take another piece of Melbourne residential development pie 

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Melbourne estate agents are holding twilight auctions this December in a bid to get through their freshest 11th-hour listings.
Their Saturday schedules are already full over the two remaining sales weekends before Christmas.
So the Noel Jones agency has twilight auction offerings.
There's an ultra-modern <a href="https://www.noeljones.com.au/property-details/4727727/" target="_blank">North Melbourne property </a>(pictured below) listed for December 20 private twilight auction.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/12/leveson.jpg">
It's got a very dark charcoal facade to boot. It has three first-floor bedrooms, a fully fitted 3D home theatre, a pool featuring Bisazza mosaic tiles and four-car garage. There's a huge bluestone paved rooftop.
The agency also has a Malvern East house listed the same night for twilight auction with $800,000-plus hopes.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/12/theridge.jpg" width="470">
Saturday, December 15 will be Jellis Craig’s last auction day before Christmas, but the agency has a number of mid-week twilight offerings, including a 1920s Canterbury house scheduled for December 20 auction through agent Geordie Dixon. The property at<a target="_blank" href="https://www.jelliscraig.com.au/property/CANTERBURY-8-The-Ridge/4733503/#.UL_GRuScd8E"> 8 The Ridge, Canterbury</a> (pictured above), will be put to 7pm auction. Jellis Craig agent Charles Boyd puts a 1940s Malvern East house, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.jelliscraig.com.au/property/MALVERN-EAST-75-Bowen-Street/4736799/">75 Bowen Street</a>, to auction at 6.30 on December 19.
<img width="470" src="/images/stories/2012/12/bowen.jpg">
At Mill Park, Ray White agents Lisa Reginato and Daniel Nardella have a <a href="https://raywhitemillpark.com.au/vic/mill-park/885189/" target="_blank">four-bedroom contemporary house with turret </a>(pictured below)listed for December 20 twilight auction.
<img width="470" src="/images/stories/2012/12/randell.jpg">
Tonight a builder's home in Doncaster East (pictured below) goes to twilight auction through Ray White Manningham agent Carmen Stenta. Its marketing material includes<a href="https://raywhitemanningham.com.au/vic/doncaster-east/871698/" target="_blank"> twilight imagery</a> since it's obviously a selling point.
<img width="470" src="/images/stories/2012/12/tusanne.jpg">
Only the bravest of vendors will auction Saturday, December 22.
But Hocking Stuart is trying to get buyers to turn up at an auction of a two-bedroom Preston apartment.
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Twilight auction trend to cope with the late December rush

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There are lots of loud voices advocating big cities as the best places for investors to target, as I wrote in my Property Observer column in September.
Indeed, they say, the big cities are the only places to invest. Some even suggest you’re crazy to buy anywhere else. 
These people have one thing in common: they have businesses that benefit if you follow their advice. This is the loudest noise in real estate – the voice of vested interests. 
Apart from the ethical issues of seeking to benefit from giving tainted advice, it’s foolish to have such hardline attitudes. 
Nothing is that black and white in real estate. Situations are always evolving, and the best opportunities at a given point in time can be found in myriad places: a regional city, a seaside town with an important export port, an outer suburb boosted by new transport infrastructure, an inner-city area with an evolving university-hospital precinct.
But, generally speaking, I have no doubt that many of the best opportunities for long-term capital growth with solid yields are found outside the big cities. 
Regional Australia is the most under-rated option for investors. Investor surveys that asked people where they expect to find the best capital growth always rank the regions last, behind popular choices like inner-city suburbs and sea change icons. 
It emphasises how misinformed the average punter is and how little homework they do. These choices contradict all the research evidence. I suspect “research” for most investors consists of absorbing media sound bytes – which means they have their heads crammed with negativity and misinformation. 
To put things in simplistic terms, this is what the research shows: outer suburbs outperform the inner-city, hill change out-does sea change, and the city v. country clash is usually won by country. 
There are plenty of exceptions you could find, but those are the general rules of thumb that emerge from research. 
To compare city and country, let’s look at New South Wales. Sydney property professionals tend to gag at any suggestion of going west of Parramatta to buy real estate. If it’s not the beaches, the inner city or the north shore, you’re a nutter. 
This is despite the miserable capital growth performance of Sydney over the past decade. There are very few suburbs anywhere in Sydney that have managed a long-term average even as low as 6% a year. There are none with double-digit averages. 
Among the so-called “better” areas that have delivered only 3% or 4% a year to property owners are Manly, Balmain, Palm Beach, Vaucluse, Gordon, French’s Forest, Sutherland … it’s a very long list. 
Doing only marginally better, with averages around 5% a year, are places like North Sydney, Leichhardt, Bondi, Randwick and Cronulla. At growth rates like these, you’d be better off leaving your money in the bank. 
Regional NSW, however, is full of cities and towns with double-digit growth rates for the past 10 years. Among them are Muswellbrook, Singleton, Lismore, Casino, Branxton, Greta, Gunnedah and Glen Innes. 
A second-tier list of places with growth rates around 9% to 9.5% includes Goulburn, Wagga Wagga and Murwillumbah, all of them out-performing any Sydney suburb you care to nominate. 
One of the best has been humble Broken Hill, which has averaged 13% per year over the past decade. 
Melbourne overall has been a better performer than Sydney, but the same city v. country pattern applies. If you want a double-digit growth rate long-term, you have to head bush. 
Consider the suburbs of Melbourne’s inner south-east, much beloved by property professionals and local media who see auction activity there as the barometer of all things real estate. Toorak, the standard bearer for everyone who loves pretentious property, has a Sydney-esque growth average of 4.9%. 
Others, like Armadale, Brighton and St Kilda, are a little better, averaging in the 5% to 6% range. 
Some, including Balwyn, Canterbury and Malvern, has touched the intoxicating heights of 8%. 
Compare that to workaday Gippsland towns like Traralgon, Churchill, Maffra and Sale, which have averaged 11-12% over the past 10 years. 
Portland, down in the far south-west, has been chugging along unnoticed (except by city people who love to fish) with a growth average of 10% a year. 
Scattered around the regional areas of Victoria are plenty with double-digit averages: Woodend, Kyneton, Camperdown and Barwon Heads among them. 
I’ve heard it said that regional areas are risky because their economies are based on a single major industry like agriculture or mining. 
For many regional cities, this is untrue. There’s nothing one-dimensional about Orange, Tamworth and Dubbo in NSW, or Ballarat, Bendigo and Warrnambool in Victoria. Their great strength is the diversity of their economic base, along with their affordability.
Terry Ryder is the founder of <a href="https://www.hotspotting.com.au/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">hotspotting.com.au</a> and can be <a href="https://www.twitter.com/hotspotting" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">followed on Twitter</a>.
For Terry's updated outlook sign up for the free webinar on Thursday, December 6 at 12.30pm on <a target="_blank" href="/news">Regions versus capital cities - where to invest in 2013?</a> 
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The best opportunities for property investors will be outside major cities in 2013

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Clearance rates across the combined capital cities decreased to 49.4% last week, compared with 51.3% the previous week. There were 2,139 auctions held across the capital cities last week, while at the same time last year, the combined capital city clearance rate was recorded at 44% and there were 1,790 auctions held over the week.
In Melbourne last week, the clearance rate was recorded at 55.6%, down from a stronger 58.2% the previous week. Melbourne’s clearance rate continues to outperform when compared with the same time last year, when the clearance rate was recorded at 50%. Auction volumes are also at higher levels with 971 auctions held across Melbourne last week, compared to 774 at the same time last year. There were 784 auctions held in Sydney last week with the clearance rate recorded at 48.6%, down from 50.4% the previous week. Over the same week last year, Sydney’s clearance rate was recorded at 44.5%.
Next week, there are almost 2,900 auctions scheduled across the country, with 2,097 of these auctions being held in the capital cities.
Click to enlarge
<a href="/images/stories/2012/12/rpdec4.gif" rel="shadowbox" title="Click to enlarge"><img src="/images/stories/2012/12/rpdec4thumb.gif"></a>
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Almost 2,900 auctions set for this week: RP Data

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Investors continue to focus attention on Gladstone, arguably the number-one boom town in the nation, as I wrote in my Property Observer column in October.
I get asked lots of questions about the wisdom of buying in Gladstone. 
The problem? The optimum time to buy there was two years ago. If you buy now, you’re paying for someone else’s capital gains. 
The question I get asked – about Gladstone and other growth centres – is this: why didn’t I know about this place in 2010? 
The answer: because you didn’t know what to look for, nor where to find it. 
Gladstone’s capital growth over the past two years was a no-brainer for anyone with the habit of acquiring pertinent information. 
This is something all wannabe investors should do, but few know how to start and even fewer are willing to spend time and money. 
Therein lies the answer to another question: why do so few attain their goals as investors? 
Many want a shortcut to the next growth area. They want the inside information but aren’t willing to get any dirt under their fingernails. 
People with that mentality are in the wrong business. They have a bleak future as property investors.
The alternative to paying for good information is hard work. If you don’t want to pay for market intelligence, you have to acquire it at the expense of your own time. 
The good news is that all the information you could ever need is out there. Anyone with internet access can find it. 
The bad news is you have know where to look and you have to be willing to spend time. 
For Terry's updated outlook sign up for the free webinar on Thursday, December 6 at 12.30pm on <a href="/news">Regions versus capital cities - where to invest in 2013?</a>
 
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Most look in the wrong places. They read metropolitan newspapers with articles written primarily by non-experts with a focus on the wrong issues. 
Newspapers love printing lists of suburbs and towns which have shown the highest growth in median prices in the past 12 months – and misrepresent the figures as growth in property values, which they very often are not. 
For investors seeking the best places to buy, this is worthless information. At best, it tells you where you should have bought a year ago. For the purposes of this discussion I’ll overlook the many vagaries and anomalies inherent in median prices or alternative methodologies, which often lead to misinformation that sends investors down false trails. 
Investors need to seek out information sources that tell them about more relevant things than median price trends. Like where the new roads and rail links are being built, where new businesses are being generated, where mines and factories and power plants are being created. It’s all about infrastructure and jobs, which translate in short time into demand for real estate. 
Intelligent use of the internet makes it relatively easy, but it requires discipline. If you’re serious about property investment, you have to commit some time every day. 
Accumulate information. Gather knowledge. Learn which locations have growth economies. Notice which areas have proactive councils. Be among the first to know about new developments. Pick up on places set to benefit from new infrastructure. 
Gladstone, which has a massive future as an industrial muscle city, will continue to deliver growth for property buyers. But investors should be hunting for locations that look the way Gladstone did five years ago, before it started building three liquefied natural gas processing facilities. 
They won’t find them unless they develop the habit of gathering intelligence.
Terry Ryder is the founder of <a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="https://www.hotspotting.com.au/">hotspotting.com.au</a> and can be <a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="https://www.twitter.com/hotspotting">followed on Twitter</a>.
For Terry's updated outlook sign up for the free webinar on Thursday, December 6 at 12.30pm on <a target="_blank" href="/news">Regions versus capital cities - where to invest in 2013?</a>
 
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How property investors can find the next Gladstone in 2013: Terry Ryder

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One of the most remarkable events in Australian development history is expected may begin some time next year: the construction of the largest wind farm in the southern hemisphere. 
The extraordinary thing about this is that it will take place in at least five different locations around Australia. 
The latest project claiming to be the largest wind farm in the southern hemisphere will take place on King Island off the coast of Tasmania. 
The largest ever will also be built just outside Broken Hill near the NSW-South Australia border. 
Curiously, the largest of all time will soon be completed in south-western Victoria. 
That won’t prevent the largest wind farm in the southern hemisphere from rising out of the ground in NSW near Goulburn. 
We can expect further announcements in 2014, with more new projects claiming to dwarf all others.
When it comes to wind farm development, you don’t let the facts get in the way of a good press release. Nor does it stop journalists from cheerfully repeating the “largest in the southern hemisphere” claims as fact. Why bother to check? They wouldn’t say it if it weren’t true, would they? 
Fortunately, wind farm developers don’t let mass hysteria get in the way either. There are few types of construction projects that have been blamed for a greater array of bizarre events than wind farms. 
It’s amazing how many people with dodgy mental health or suffering from sleeping disorders can find a wind turbine to blame. Cows have been known to lose the ability to give milk and chooks living within pecking distance of a wind farm steadfastly refuse to lay. 
Property values go into meltdown if subjected to the sight, sound or subliminal suggestion of a wind farm. County roads crumble in protest and lives are destroyed by the mere sight of them. 
It’s a lot to overcome and to make it harder, a couple of the more rabid state governments have bowed to yokel pressure and passed laws that are tantamount to banning them altogether. 
Coal-fired power station? No problem. 
Lead smelter? Knock yourself out. 
Uranium mine? How can we help? 
But an environmentally sustainable source of renewable energy? Everyone run for your lives! 
Thank god some companies are willing to persevere because, apart of the environmental side effects, wind farms create substantial economic benefits and can turn meandering property markets into hotspots. 
Two wind farms created in south-west Victoria by developer AGL (<a target="_blank" href="/news">Macarthur </a>and <a target="_blank" href="/news">Oaklands</a>) are claimed to have injected $67 million into the local economy, with close to 1,000 people employed during the construction phases, plus 52 ongoing jobs. 
The newly announced King Island project will cost around $2 billion and the construction of its 200 turbines will provide a desperately needed economic boost to struggling Tasmania. It is far from the being the largest in planning in Australia, but Tassie could certainly use the leg up this project will provide, including 500 construction jobs. 
Regional markets that have risen thanks, in part at least, to wind farm development include <a target="_blank" href="/news">Portland</a>, <a target="_blank" href="/news">Warrnambool </a>and <a target="_blank" href="/news">Goulburn</a>. Locations expected to be boosted by upcoming developments include <a target="_blank" href="/news">Broken Hill</a>, <a target="_blank" href="/news">Dubbo</a>, <a target="_parent" href="/news">Glen Innes</a>, <a target="_blank" href="/news">Ballarat </a>and <a target="_blank" href="/news">Kingaroy</a>. 
As an aside, a Senate committee last week found that noise from wind farms was no different from other noise, discounted claims of health impacts and declined to support calls for tougher planning regulations. 
So there’s hoping that the half dozen projects that share the title of largest south of the equator will happen and we’ll all benefit, apart from ultra-light sleepers, people who can hear silent dog whistles and owners of temperamental chickens.
Terry Ryder is the founder of <a href="https://www.hotspotting.com.au/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">hotspotting.com.au</a> and can be <a href="https://www.twitter.com/hotspotting" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">followed on Twitter</a>.
Sign up for Terry's free webinar on Thursday, December 6 at 12.30pm on <a target="_blank" href="/news">Regions versus capital cities - where to invest in 2013?</a>
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Yokel pressure and mass hysteria aside, wind farms turn meandering property markets into hotspots: Terry Ryder 

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In the project marketing environment location is a complex question that deserves considerable attention. Location will impact every aspect of marketing, from the practical issues of how will people find the project to selling the as-yet unrealised lifestyle offer.
I think that location is both an easily understood and yet at the same time a very complex issue. Long before a site is sold, developed and the first buyers move in there are many issues to address.
Over the next two weeks and with help from one of my associates, Shane Dargue from our residential development sites team, I will to take a detailed look at this topic. In particular what is driving demand in key pockets of demand and how sites are best taken to market. However, by way of an introduction I would like to publish some general thinking to kick off this topic.
Location
The location of an individual property is universally the most important factor influencing its market appeal; after all they even names a TV show after this real estate bellwether. However, in today’s world location can be influenced by external factors that are not directly tied up in the location itself, like transport and technology.
The appeal of a location relative to services and employment has always been important, but when it comes to high-density development it even more so. Also when you are marketing to a new community of buyers they will have different priorities depending upon their personal needs and circumstances.
On a very large scale the arrival and planning of a major development will itself have an impact will change how desirable a location is. As major cities including Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane move to accommodate bigger populations, this is now a fairly common factor. Once unfashionable or even undesirable industrial locations can be transformed by the development and we will look at some examples.
As we will see location within the context of any major city is a factor that will have an overriding impact for any project that will be fundamental to its success.
How location is leveraged will always impact the sales results of any project. Success will be measured in the demand for the end product and the amount of time the development will take to sell, however carefully considering demand and the role of planning laws are also key factors.
To explore this topic of location further it is first necessary to look at each market (product type) to establish the big-picture and there are many aspects that will be common but also there are important variations which characteristic those same markets.
Conventionally the closer to the centre of cities the more demand there is for accommodation. However, infrastructure such as transport links and affordability have to be taken into account.
The result is that major new projects in any big metropolitan area share some common aspects of location, but as Shane highlights they are also influenced by other unique factors.
 
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The pool of potential buyers
The pool of potential buyers is perhaps one of the most important elements in the project marketing mix; the pool of buyers clearly has an impact on the value of a development site, as the depth of the market is an essential element that will impact every level of activity and planning.
While the individual make-up of potential buyers for a location might in some cases overlap, there are always important and subtle differences. Buyers looking at inner-city apartments or well-located in-fill projects will have different motivations, as will owner-occupiers and investors.
Greenfield developments will generally tend to have much more wide-ranging appeal and offer more product choice and could be expected to attract a higher number of first-time buyers.
While it is necessary to draw this distinction the rules are not hard and fast, and detailed target audience analysis will always be required as the pool of potential buyers does shift and this in turn impacts how attractive potential development sites are.
In the-post GFC age the impact of tighter economic circumstances has also caused a shift in where developers are active in the housing market, and as might be expected the banks are also having a key influence.
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>
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