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]

Joel Robinson

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

Fresh from launching the first stage of its Wollongong precinct, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/keira-place-wollongong-120-122-smith-street-wollongong-nsw-2500">Keira Place</a>, builder-developer Urban Property Group has unveiled plans for the next phase of the masterplanned community.

Now on public exhibition through the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority pathway is a State Significant Development Application for a further 657 homes on the prominent gateway site opposite Beaton Park.

The proposal comprises three buildings, including two build-to-sell towers rising 25 and 30 storeys, delivering 391 apartments, alongside a 12-storey co-living building with 266 residences, making it one of the largest co-living proposals currently planned in regional New South Wales.

Of the apartments proposed in the build-to-sell towers, the majority, 310, are two-bedroom dwellings. The balance comprises 44 one-bedroom apartments and 37 three-bedroom residences. Apartment sizes range from around 50 sqm for one-bedroom homes to approximately 90 sqm for three-bedroom apartments.

<img alt="Smith St" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="19347059-1612-41a0-9c74-b86a657237f8" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-10%20at%2010.02.18%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=sWXnaCcA.cIC6N8YT1dg5pJ2e1V3Z6z7" />

The submission says the proposal has evolved significantly from its original Housing Delivery Authority application following extensive consultation with the State Design Review Panel and Wollongong City Council.

The final scheme has been designed to align with the emerging vision for the Flinders Street Precinct, an area identified by Council as a future high-density mixed-use neighbourhood capable of accommodating substantial housing growth close to transport, employment and community infrastructure.

According to the design report prepared by COX Architecture, the development aims to "deliver a built outcome consistent with the future character of the Wollongong CBD while responding to the site's unique constraints and opportunities."

"Our vision for the next phase of the site evolution in Wollongong is grounded in three design pillars that guide the design response: place, natural environment and celebration," COX said.

"Inspired by its surroundings and grounded in the stories of place on Wodi Wodi Country, the design proposal acknowledges the established character of its setting while creating a unique and timeless identity that sits harmoniously within it.

"The design proposal responds to its specific site conditions, acknowledging the vegetation, climate, wind conditions and solar access of the site."

The architecture responds directly to the site's position between Wollongong's urban core and its natural landscape setting.

COX identified views towards Mount Keira and the Illawarra Escarpment as defining features of the site, while the upper levels of the towers will also capture expansive views across the city and out to the Pacific Ocean.

The design team has positioned the tallest buildings closer to the rail corridor, where overshadowing impacts can be better managed while establishing a landmark built form on the northern approach into the city.

<img alt="Smith St" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="79580d5b-500c-4ebf-9629-797146a4a694" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-10%20at%209.51.59%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=WbTB1EKSG.KDfsfz0F3wp1QVa2oCMGR5" />

Urban Property Group secured the 11,000 sqm Smith Street site in 2022 and has since progressed plans for the broader Keira Place precinct.

Construction recently commenced on the first stage of Keira Place, which will deliver 150 apartments across two residential buildings, including 27 affordable housing apartments and 18 specialist disability accommodation dwellings, alongside activated ground-floor retail and commercial space.

Urban Co-CEO Patrick Elias said the commencement of construction marked a significant milestone for Wollongong and reflected the developer's long-term commitment to regional cities.

"Today's groundbreaking is about turning approvals into homes and moving quickly to deliver much-needed housing in Wollongong's city centre," Elias said.

"Keira Place will provide a diverse mix of homes close to jobs, transport and services, while setting a high benchmark for quality, durability and consumer protection."

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/groundbreaking-marks-start-of-construction-at-keira-place-in-wollongong-cbd">Groundbreaking marks start of construction at Keira Place in Wollongong CBD</a>

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Urban Property Group unveils trio of towers for next stage of new Wollongong precinct, Keira Place

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>
The combined capital city auction clearance rate was recorded at 54.4 % last week, up from 52.3% the previous week. There were 2,097 auctions held across the capital cities last week. At the same time last year, there were 2,139 auctions held, and the clearance rate was recorded at 47.5%.
Melbourne, Australia’s largest auction market, recorded a preliminary clearance rate of 60.1% last week, up from 58% the previous week and continuing to track more than 5 percentage points above the national average clearance rates. At the same time last year, Melbourne’s auction clearance rate was significantly lower at 52.1%. In Sydney last week, there were 731 auctions held and the clearance rate increased from 50% the previous week to 55.5%. At the same time last year, Sydney’s auction clearance rate was recorded at 50%.
The number of auctions scheduled for the coming week is relatively similar to the last two weeks at 2,071. In the lead-up to the Christmas period where auction volumes decrease, it is expected that each week will record high auction volumes until mid-December.
Click to enlarge
<a title="Click to enlarge" rel="shadowbox" href="/images/stories/2012/11/rpnov27.jpg"><img src="/images/stories/2012/11/rpnov27thumb.jpg"></a>
</body></html>

po-LsXgBTHBmX

High auction volumes likely to continue until mid-December: RP Data

<html><body>
Christmas has come early to Melbourne this year – the Baillieu government has opened up a Melbourne sack of goodies and granted the promise of a new suburb in the wilderness of Werribee “East”.  In case you think it’s going to end up like one of those other outer-suburban zones, lacking the adequate infrastructure to support the 17,000 new residents, don’t worry!  Planning Minister Matthew Guy has promised 50,000 jobs and around $10 billion worth of investment into providing a “new freeway interchange, residential areas, and industry hubs”.
The idea is to move jobs out of the city – keeping them “local” – and a sterling idea it is.  All agree that we simply can’t keep everything centralised forever.
Families with children are Melbourne’s biggest buying demographic – they need houses (not apartments) gardens, green areas and local schools.  They need community facilities, a local doctor on hand, good public transport systems and nearby shopping centres – and they need it all at an “affordable” price range.  Could Werribee East be an answer, I wonder?
The Victorian government has got a lot on its plate at the moment.  Aside from Werribee East, it is in the process of developing the new Fishermans Bend precinct  – our new “high-rise” metropolis, which Guy assures will be more successful than the soulless <a href="/news">Docklands</a>, which apparently is still only “half completed”.
The initial rush of investors who bought into the Docklands developments when they were spruiked on the open market some 10 or so years ago were left sitting on a pot of negative equity and expired “rental guarantees”.  The suburb still maintains a high vacancy rate (currently 8.3%, according to SQM) and as a suburb lacking in family community facilities (schools, churches, and so forth) it only attracts a narrow demographic of professional couples and office workers, which is one key reason the location lacks “soul”.
The worrying part of Docklands was the way it was initially marketed.
Purchasers bought in buoyed by the promise of a new 220-hectare site made up of: “luxury waterfront living, cafes, restaurants, a state-of-the-art stadium, a high technology park, and many other attractions”.
Financial and property advisers pocketed healthy fees from developers who paid them to push unwitting local and foreign investors into speedy purchases.
It’s not an uncommon practice – many still work under the guise of giving “independent” property investment advice principally marketing off-the-plan and new units – the key difference being, if you’re not paying for the information, someone else is – usually the developer.  Hence why ASIC is currently ringing the <a href="/news">alarm bells</a> over a new rush of property acquisitions as part of self-managed super fund accounts which all but promise to ‘underperform.’
I don’t have to go into the details of why high-rise developments make poor investments – I have written enough in the past to make it abundantly clear.  As the City of Melbourne aptly described on its website back in 2011, most of proposed new blocks are “relatively small one- and two-bedroom apartments largely targeted at the student market and owned by investors”.
And judging from the high vacancy rate, they are doing little to provide affordable accommodation for the home buying or rental demographic.  However, in Guy’s own words, high rise is apparently good for the city, as “taller buildings ... are a symbol of a growing nation, a strong economy, and they do have the ability to define a city".
Of this there is no doubt – however, as with many tall buildings, the lights may be on, but all too often no one is home.
 
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
 
Back to “Werribee East”, and the government states it will use the revenue from land sales to build the promised infrastructure.
No doubt this will be achieved via hefty development overlays that disproportionally inflate the underlying cost of the land for home buyers.  The success of the plan requires attracting a substantial round of investment into the area initially, and if history is the judge, by the time it gets to individual lot sales, it will be done via a range of incentives that will encourage home buyers to relocate buoyed up on promises that read like a holiday brochure of McMansion delights.
There is absolutely nothing wrong with the main thrust to the suburb – designed through a “vision” of residents working close to home with ample accessibility to their local town centre and community services (thereby avoiding a two-plus-hour commute in nose-to-nose traffic on inadequate road networks for an eight-hour slog in Melbourne town).
Nothing wrong at all – except, of course, it’s all been promised before.
In a report earlier this year issues such as respiratory problems, abuse of alcohol, depression and various other mental and physical diseases were highlighted as common problems in poorly designed “fringe” housing estates lacking in community facilities – facilities that were often sketched in on the initial “master plans” but failed to achieve the necessary funding to realise their potential.
Currently our outer-suburban new estates are amongst the fastest-growing suburbs in Australia. Areas such as <a target="_blank" href="/news">Wyndham </a>City and <a target="_blank" href="/news">Whittlesea North</a> in Victoria, along with <a target="_blank" href="/news">Ipswich</a> in Queensland, <a target="_blank" href="/news">Camden</a> in Sydney, and <a target="_blank" href="/news">Wanneroo </a>in Western Australia are just a few of the fringe localities that are all outperforming in the population stakes.
<a target="_blank" href="/news">Point Cook</a>, a suburb of Wyndham, was promised to be a “a thriving neighbourhood ... just 22 kilometres from Melbourne” with “convenient access to established schools, shopping, recreational facilities and public transport.”
However, fast forward to 2012 and Bill Forrest, director of advocacy with the Wyndham City Council, is now reporting ''They [the state government] have not kept up with schools, they have not kept up with arterial roads, more than 50T of Point Cook is more than 400 metres from a bus stop.''
Surely it would be a better investment to fix one suburb’s infrastructure woes before promising the same delights for “Werribee East?”
 
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
 
According to reports, Werribee East will have new bus connections but no rail. Why would they need it? After all, as Matthew Guy comments, the idea is for everyone to have local jobs – so no need to travel into the city.
It will take years – if not decades – to attract significant investment to achieve the local employment dream for 17,000 new residents.
Furthermore, unless you want a gated community of residents without the diversification of young professionals who work in the city, a fast train link directly to Melbourne would be the one ingredient to attract additional demand overnight while the “local” job plan was evolving.
Furthermore, a train link to Melbourne opens up the freedom to attend football matches and experience inner-city day and nightlife and ensures outer-suburban home buyers remain connected to the wider Melbourne community.
Bus doesn’t work – it’s slower than taking the car and not a viable alternative unless it’s got the word “school” written in front of it.
Unfulfilled promises are a frustratingly common feature of politics. You would never get away with it in a business – the concept of which follows the premise of “promise less, deliver more”.
No so with our state governments – how many out there possess old Melways editions full of dotted lines where proposed train lines and roads had been promised?
Some of Melbourne’s non-existent train lines were initially mooted as far back as the 1890s – and following numerous feasibility reports that amount to millions of arguably wasted dollars, we may as well just watch re-runs of Thomas the Tank Engine for a little solace.
Possibility the biggest bone of Melbourne’s contention is lack of a direct rain link to Tullamarine airport, which – if reports in this week’s newspapers are anything to go by – is already planning a $500 million third runway.
However, once again, the proposed “east-west” runway has been ‘dotted’ in the Melways for over 10 years and if/when it does get built, passengers will disembark from the 900 km/h A380 only to be ushered into a queue to catch the local bus into the world’s most liveable city.
Apparently, a direct train link to Tullamarine is currently in the feasibility stage, and a proposed train link Melbourne’s Avalon airport is currently seeking a reported $250 million to reach fruition. Add this to the $30 billion required for Fishermans Bend, the $10 billion to “complete” Docklands, and the $10 billion for our new western “wilderness” capital – coupled with Victoria’s current economic outlook, which is suffering from a fall in construction and the high Aussie dollar – and any vision of thriving new neighbourhoods should probably be more correctly termed pipe dreams.
Catherine Cashmore is a market analyst with extensive experience in all aspects relating to property acquisition.
</body></html>

catherinecashmore-6LXia3pPQj

New Melbourne suburbs come with big promises, but will the infrastructure eventuate? 

rlarocca-zWhvjay44N

Melbourne property market steady as two-thirds of properties sold by private treaty: REIV

<html><body>Australian Property Monitors (APM) has released a list of results from 382 auctions in Sydney for the weekend of November 24. The clearance rate was 59.7%. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.homepriceguide.com.au/saturday_auction_results/Sydney.pdf"> Click here</a> for the auction results, and click on each street address to see the property's marketing.</body></html>

APM's 382 Sydney auction results show 59.7% clearance rate

<html><body>
<img src="/images/stories/2012/11/1.gif">
Have you done enough research and background reading? Reading the get-rich quick stories in investment magazines will give you the impression that what you are contemplating is a sure-fire investment bet, but that is never the full picture. You should read widely and thoroughly about the mining town you’re considering investing in including newspapers, investor forums, the views on the mining boom of economists and government reports.
 
<hr>
 
<img src="/images/stories/2012/11/2.gif">
Do you understand all the forces shaping the town and the region? You need to be aware of government investment plans for the region, including transport and other infrastructure and the timeline for their implementation. The mining boom is set to peak nationally in 2014, but when will it peak in your investment region?
 
<hr>
 
 
<img src="/images/stories/2012/11/3.gif">
Have you spoken to another investor who has bought in the town? Make sure you find out the experiences of other investors. Learn from their mistakes and pick up their tips.
 
<hr>
 
<img src="/images/stories/2012/11/4.gif">
Have you only listened to the advice of marketeers and spruikers? Getting market insights and advice from someone who is also trying to sell you property in that same market (and earn a commission from it) is not a good idea. Avoid the opinions and suggestions of people with vested interests.
 
<hr>
 
<img src="/images/stories/2012/11/5.gif">
Are there other industries driving the economy of that town? Investing in towns that rely solely on one industry are extremely risky. Consider mining towns that have other industries supporting the economy as well.
 
<hr>
 
<img src="/images/stories/2012/11/6.gif">
Who are you likely tenants going to be? Are they likely to be families or contractors living on their own? This will guide the type of property you invest in.
 
<hr>
 
<img src="/images/stories/2012/11/7.gif">
Are you going to buy a new property or an old one? New properties tend to be more expensive, while older properties tend to have better capital growth potential and are in better locations. Never buy a property just for the tax depreciation benefits. In some towns the only option may be a new property, but be wary of house-and-land packages.
 
<hr>
 
<img src="/images/stories/2012/11/8.gif">
Have you visited the town? It’s worth making the journey out to a remote location to speak to locals, get a sense and flavour of the town and make yourself aware of local factors such as pollution, facilities, schools, transport, etc.
 
<hr>
 
<img src="/images/stories/2012/11/9.gif">
Will you be getting enough of a return to just the risk of your investment? Once you are aware of the risks of investing in a mining location, you should ensure the rental yields will be high enough to compensate. On the flipside, very high yield potentials are rarely sustainable in the long run.
 
<hr>
 
<img src="/images/stories/2012/11/10.gif">
Are there any other better regional options? It’s a good idea to consider other locations nearby that may offer better long-term potential. For example, you might choose to invest in the Whitsundays, which is tipped to be a fly-in-fly-out (FIFO) destination for a place like <a href="/news">Moranbah</a>, rather than Moranbah itself.
 
<hr>
 
<img src="/images/stories/2012/11/11.gif">
Have you considered a more stable city location with ties to mining? You should also weigh up the alternative of investing in city location that has ties to the mining industry, where the risk is lower. For example, north-east Perth is a FIFO hotspot for WA mining regions.
 
<hr>
 
<img src="/images/stories/2012/11/12.gif">
Do you have the financial buffer to sustain your investment if the market dips? You should have the means necessary to keep your investment afloat should the market suffer a short-term downturn when rents could fall, or your property could stand vacant for a period of time. It’s always a good idea to get professional financial advice for any large investment.
 
<hr>
 
<img src="/images/stories/2012/11/13.gif">
Have you thoroughly reviewed all the information you have at hand? Are you taking a gamble or are you making a sensible investment. Don't speculate without wisdom.
For more on investing in mining towns, download our free eBook <a href="http://propertyobserver.com.au/ebooks/free-ebook-gladstone-investment-keys-to-one-of-the-nations-most-talked-about-hotspots" target="_blank">Gladstone – Investment keys to one of the nation’s most talked-about hotspots</a>
</body></html>

The 13 questions to ask before buying an investment property in a mining town

<html><body>
Surprise, surprise – <a target="_blank" href="https://www.heraldsun.com.au/ipad/australians-increasingly-disillusioned-with-federal-system-and-national-tier-of-government-newspoll-finds/story-fnbzs1v0-1226518603337" title="Australians increasingly disillusioned with federal system and national tier of government Newspoll finds">Australians increasingly disillusioned with federal system and national tier of government, Newspoll finds</a>. According to the third biennial constitutional values survey, two-thirds of Australians do not believe state and federal governments are working well together, with confidence in the federal government as the most effective level of government falling from 50% in 2008 to 29% in 2012.
Griffin University’s Professor AJ Brown, the survey’s lead researcher, said “the declining faith in governments suggested Australia was headed for a 'crisis of confidence' unless greater political priority was again given to issues of federal co-operation and longer-term reform”.
Alas, we constantly hear the buzzword “reform”. For those closely watching the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) <a target="_blank" href="https://www.afr.com/p/national/nsw_politics_ugliest_years_hWqSgkNBODtPIVpCXFlTIJ" title="NSW politics’ ugliest years">NSW politics’ ugliest years</a>, the allegations of corruption are the most frightening in Australia’s political history. The allegations of greed are incomprehensible although not surprising, as suspicion has always overshadowed NSW Labor.
NSW is not alone, and the federal ALP has more than a few pending court cases to defend, with the latest (the one where four files conveniently went missing) being <a target="_blank" href="https://www.smh.com.au/opinion/political-news/bank-letter-links-pm-to-house-mortgage-20121122-29ssd" title="bank letter links PM to house mortgage.">bank letter links PM to house mortgage.</a> It has started to get very ugly for the declining ALP support machine. Australia’s Prime Minister will have to deliver a plethora of explanations to convince the Parliament that statements she has made previously were not misleading. Much speculation that her days in the top gig are numbered, and I predict a resignation over another knifing.
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessspectator.com.au/bs.nsf/Article/Funding-crisis-looms-banks-must-access-supers-Clyn-pd20121113-ZZQ68?OpenDocument&amp;src=hp20" title="Funding crisis looms, super could be the answer: Clyne ">Funding crisis looms, super could be the answer: Clyne </a>an interesting proposition given a restriction on lending is assured of sending an economy into recession.  Australia needs to be investing in new markets although the costs of doing business within Australia is or should be of enormous concern. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessspectator.com.au/bs.nsf/Article/Australian-dollar-construction-unions-mining-gas-S-pd20121122-29SWV?OpenDocument&amp;emcontent_Gottliebsen" title="Blame CEOs for national cost explosion ">Blame CEOs for national cost explosion, </a>which points out that it is three times more expensive to build a mining plant in Australia than in the United States. This is further evidenced within the declining manufacturing industry, which is constantly in decline and propped up by taxpayers. I doubt that within 10 years, Australia will have a manufacturing industry.  Australia will become an import, not export economy, which means that unions won’t survive either.
<img width="470" src="/images/stories/2012/11/simnov23.jpg">
The good news for consumers is that the big four banks are now under increasing pressure given <a title="China’s biggest bank, ICBC, moves on Australian expansion plans" href="https://www.smh.com.au/business/chinas-biggest-bank-icbc-moves-on-australian-expansion-plans-20121112-298co" target="_blank">China’s biggest bank, ICBC, moves on Australian expansion plans</a> and is now increasing and opening branches all over Australia. According to Wikipedia, Australian residents identified as having Chinese ancestry make up 4% of Australia’s population or approximately 865,000 people as at 2011. Throw in <a title="Macquarie Bank doubles loans in first nine months of 2012: APRA figures " href="/news" target="_blank">Macquarie Bank doubles loans in first nine months of 2012: APRA figures, </a>so we are seeing a change within the banking landscape.
Sydney is Australia’s most densely populated city – its established inner and middle suburbs averaged 3,244 persons per square kilometre in 2010, up 13% from 2001. Just like our manufacturing decline, it is the cost of living that is determining our economy.
<img width="470" src="/images/stories/2012/11/simnov231.jpg">
The best example (I love graphs) is this:
<img width="470" src="/images/stories/2012/11/simnov232.jpg">
Which brings us back to the Newspoll findings – modern-day governments just don’t get it. Australia needs to quickly adjust to the enlightenments of the modern world. Just look at the dumb and dumber <a title="Click Frenzy" href="https://www.clickfrenzy.com.au/" target="_blank">Click Frenzy</a> launch this week where the servers crashed. Only an incompetent wouldn’t know that this website needs its own dedicated servers to cope with the demand – not shared servers.
The Mosman housing markets continues to contract much faster than we witnessed last year – which is more to do with the state of the economy than anything else. Although it was pleasing to see that yesterday, Australian stocks jumped through the 4,400 point barrier. One should bear in mind that when it breaks 5,000, house prices go into boom mode. This is a scary proposition (even for a real estate agent) given my belief that the last thing our property markets need is a property boom when, at best, we see so many dysfunctions in our overall economy.
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

Dysfunction in overall economy, but property could be heading into boom mode

<html><body>
<a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/2-50-westfield-boulevard-westmeadows/Property-Details-buy-residential-4678973" target="_blank">2/50 Westfield Boulevard, Westmeadows, VIC, 3049</a> <img src="/images/stories/2012/11/westfield.jpg" width="470">
Comprising three storeys, this six-year-old four-bedroom townhouse is currently tenanted at $380 a week. The lease expires in December, and listing agent Jason Padula of Barry Plant says the tenant would be willing to sign another 12-month lease at the same rent, which he says is a good return for the area. The property has more than 225 square metres of living space and includes floorboards and a backyard.
Padula <a href="https://www.barryplant.com.au/property.cfm?propertyID=2212682&amp;realestate=50_Westfield_Boulevard_WESTMEADOWS_VIC_3049" target="_blank">is marketing the property </a>with price hopes of $379,000 plus, and if it sells for that price, that would secure an investor a gross rental yield of 5.2% at its current rent, above the gross rental yield for Westmeadows houses of 4.5%, 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 $10,000 and over five years to be $36,000.
The median house price in Westmeadows fell 3.7% in the past year but rose 49.1% in the past five years, according to RP Data.
For more information about prices and yields in <a href="/news">Westmeadows, see the RP Data suburb page.</a>
The property will be open for inspection Saturday, November 24 at 12.45pm and will go to auction Saturday, December 8 at 11am.
</body></html>

cknowlton-QnEa6ntUYP

Friday form guide: Yields of up to 5.2% in Westmeadows

<html><body>
A commercial investor has bought a corner commercial building in Redfern, Sydney, for $5.15 million, paying $1.25 million above the reserve at auction.
The tenanted property at 401-409 Cleveland Street on the corner of Crown Street and Cleveland Street was sold by Arissa Property Group director Frank Scarf on behalf of Gordon Salier, trustee of the deceased estate of the late Edmond Wardy.
The property had been in the family for 20 years.
Five bidders competed for the <a href="/news">Redfern </a>property in a “spirited” auction, according to Scarf.
It stands on an 809-square-metre site with an approximate gross floor area of 1,403 square metres.
The building brings in a current passing income of $312,000, which represents a passing yield of 6%.
The ground floor comprises a café, bakery, hair salon, Turkish restaurant and a large vacancy formally tenanted by Blockbuster video on the top floor.
The first floor is an open plan commercial space.
Also at the same auction, Arissa Property Group sold a level block of approximately 685 square metres at 74 Mitchell Road, <a href="/news">Alexandria</a>, 10 minutes from the CBD.
It sold under the hammer for $1.9 million to a private developer on behalf of the same trustee of deceased estate of late Edmond Wardy and has a current net income of $84,196 with a 4.4%.
“We’re seeing a lot of investor interest in the inner-city region, which is very promising for Sydney’s ongoing market growth,” says Scarf.
</body></html>

lschlesinger-FZcF9M3vE6

Investor pays $1.25 million above the reserve for Redfern commercial building 

<html><body>
A Lane Cove property will go to auction this week for the first time in more than three decades.
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.
In Sydney Kerrie Robertson from LJ Hooker will offer 28 Coolaroo Road, Lane Cove, to the market for the first time in more than 30 years. The deceased estate sits on more than 700 square metres of land and represents a great opportunity for a family who are looking for something comfortable now but are happy to renovate down the track.
The property comprises three bedrooms and a lock-up garage under the house and is walking distance to parks and shops. Bidding is expected to start at $950,000 and move up from there.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/11/coolaroo.jpg">
 
</body></html>

marmstrong-sd3emVLPPb

Sydney auction tipping: Great opportunity for a family in Lane Cove

<html><body>
The vendors of a single-fronted terrace in Carlton North will try to double their investment this weekend. 
There’s a website, <a href="https://www.propertytycoon.com.au/" target="_blank">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 style="font-size: 14px;" href="https://www.propertytycoon.com.au/join-league/S7S123C487R8OOQF" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Property Observer readers have their own competition, which you can access here</a><a href="https://www.propertytycoon.com.au/join-league/S7S123C487R8OOQF" rel="nofollow">.</a> The winner of the overall competition will win $1,000.
A perfect, wider-than-normal single-fronted terrace at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-carlton+north-112091651" target="_blank">213 Station Street, Carlton North</a>, goes under the hammer on Saturday. The three-bedroom home has been fully renovated to maximise space and natural light and to offer all the attractions of a low-maintenance lifestyle. The blue-chip address is close to Rathdowne Village and Curtain Square, and within walking distance of the CBD.
It has been 10 years since the property was offered to the market and last time it fetched $415,000 at auction. This time agent Tom Roberts from Nelson Alexander expects the property to sell for $800,000 to $880,000.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/11/stationst.jpg">
</body></html>

Latest Buying Insights

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

Editor's Picks

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

Latest Buying Insights

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

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News