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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378718]

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

<html><body>
So you’ve settled on a suburb or area that you want to invest in, and you’ve narrowed it down to a handful of competing developments.
They’re all in great spots, in similar price ranges.
How do you separate them?
One of the biggest mistakes clever investors make is to ignore what I call the four Fs – facilities, fixtures, fittings and finish.
There are 10 four F trends you must be aware of.
1. Smart living: data cabling and wireless
Everybody needs the net at home. Make sure your property has smart wiring built into the walls – you don’t want to add it later. Most developers now offer data and TV cabling to most living and study areas, and demand will only increase. If your development is solid concrete, where can tenants use wireless internet devices, or even mobile phones?
2.  Lap pool and gym
Forget the old jellybean shape; the hot new trend is a lap pool. They create a quieter environment too, because they’re less about “play” and more about exercise and wellbeing. Well-equipped gyms are becoming much more common in small to mid-size developments.
3.  Shared spaces: quality and quantity
Large developments used to have a pool and a barbecue space; now there’s a trend for smaller developments to provide a wide selection of shared spaces for residents to enjoy. Small theatres, rooftop lounges, boardrooms and function rooms – these are all “bang on trend” at the moment.
4.  Natural ventilation and air-conditioning
Some tenants will rely on air-conditioning. Others don’t want an electricity bill up in the stratosphere, so they’re demanding natural ventilation. Either way, there’s a clear trend towards apartments that cost less to live in. Can you control the air-con to shut off rooms you’re not using?
5.  Natural light and energy-efficient light fittings
The big trend towards energy efficiency means ample windows, aspect and surrounding buildings all play a role. A certain proportion of a new dwelling’s light fittings are required to be “energy efficient”; ask the developer about fittings that are used every night.
6.  Two-pack cabinetry and stone benchtops
A few years ago, quality two-pack cabinetry and stone benches only featured in the kitchens and bathrooms of the most expensive houses. Now you’ll find them in most mid-range apartments. Don’t settle for less; they will last longer. Another quality trend: “soft-close” drawers – if Ikea can make them standard, so can your developer.
7.  Kitchen appliances: quality and function
Stainless steel is still hot and will probably never go out of fashion. But it’s the little details ticking boxes these days: a fridge dispensing ice and water; a bigger oven; a wider cooktop; a built-in coffee machine. Negotiate just one “wow” factor into your kitchen, and tenants will love you.
8.  Floors: tough and durable
The trend here is for longevity. Carpets are generally darker and limited to bedrooms. The most durable living area floor is a tiled one – glossy or matte, pick any style you like as long as it’s not terracotta. Their day has passed!
9.  Storage: clever and plentiful
Not so much a trend as a fact of life – we all need somewhere to put our stuff. The more storage space in an apartment, the better.
10. Style: modern and comfortable
Just like a good wine, you want your property to age well. The trend for finishes is simple: modern, spacious designs that can stand the test of time, but are also welcoming, comfortable – and feel like a home.
So next time you go into a display suite or onto a new estate, ask the sales rep to tell you about their four Fs.
Michael Matusik is the founder of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.matusik.com.au/">Matusik Property Insights</a>, which has helped over 550 new residential projects come to fruition.  Read <a target="_blank" href="https://www.matusikmissive.com.au/" title="blocked::https://www.matusikmissive.wordpress.com /">Michael's blog</a> or follow him on <a target="_blank" href="https://www.twitter.com/michaelmatusik">Twitter</a> or connect via <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelmatusik">LinkedIn</a>.
</body></html>

michaelmatusik-49YzLvdmNv

Don't ignore the four Fs of residential developments

<html><body>
For all the complaints about our current government, Julia Gillard has always been a passionate advocate for education reform.  Although the recent Gonski review into school funding has been heavily criticised by the opposition, our current Prime Minister aims to introduce the improvements cited from 2014 as part of an “education crusade”,
Teachers and unions will no doubt have their own views on the changes planned, and there’ll be plenty of forthcoming issues and disputes the Prime Minister has to overcome.  However, out of all the industry bodies looking and hoping for a better qualified nation, the housing industry should be at the forefront.
The UK’s leading property website, Rightmove.co.uk, has produced some interesting research indicating a university education is a “vital” ingredient for current first-home buyers who aspire to buy within the next 12 months.  Seven out of 10 surveyed on the above criteria were educated with either a graduate or post-graduate degree – and despite the fees associated with higher education, the analysts at <a href="https://www.rightmove.co.uk/" target="_blank">Rightmove</a> concluded:
“Those school-leavers who are set to embark on a university education this autumn will be encouraged by the fact that further qualifications seem to be an important qualifying factor in getting onto the housing ladder."
The reasons are no doubt numerous and to some extent obvious.  A higher education generally ensures a fatter wage packet, enabling prospective buyers to build their deposits more quickly.  However, money isn’t the only part of the equation.   A quality education builds self-esteem, enhancing an individual’s critical thinking skills – enabling them to filter through a plethora of conflicting advice widely available through digital and print media.   In many cases, it also also equips individuals with the basics of money and business management, which are essential requirements to 21st-century home ownership.
However, while education plays a valuable role in the fight to stem the reducing number of first-home buyers and issues of affordability – a trend many would like to close their eyes to – it is often not possible to get a child into the best school available for their needs due to the expense of buying in a good school zone.
For example, if you analyse the statistics, being in a school zone for one of the top 20 or so government schools in Melbourne can increase the price of properties in the area at the very least 10% to 15% – and the smaller the zone, the greater the pain.  This is why there’s a strong connection between the top public schools and the price of residential property.  Add onto this property taxes and other costs associated with moving into a school zone initially, and perhaps the only thought a family can comfort themselves with during the early hours of a sleepless night is the nest egg they’ll be left with once the kids leave home and they eventually decide to sell and downsize.
Rental yields for family accommodation are also significantly inflated for properties located in a popular school zone, providing an attractive incentive for investors seeking good growth and yield.   Neither is it unheard of for an old property within the neighbourhood to be rented by a desperate family never intending to move in, but simply using the address to meet the criteria for enrolment into year 7.  I’ve even heard of school principals camping out early mornings and late into the evening, to assess the level of activity in a property suspected of sitting vacant while the family lives elsewhere.
But if you think that’s bad, a story was recently relayed to me regarding one school principal asking to check a family’s electricity bill, with threats to hire a private detective to chase up suspected “zone cheaters”. School zones are without doubt hot property.
However, it’s an unfortunate example of how restrictions on both housing and education through the implication of strict school boundaries can often feed into a culture of separation between various groups of society, thereby producing wide areas of proportional inequality, for which I admit there’s no easy answer.
It’s also worrying that newer suburbs created with the intention of increasing the provision of affordable family-sized accommodation are woefully inadequate in their applications, principally because they often have little more than a small “village-sized” primary school servicing the area.
At worst, it results in a significant disconnect for families spilling into fringe areas and consequently  suffering unintentional discrimination as they are unable to easily access suitable educational facilities.
 
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
 
As a case in point, earlier this year the Victorian government announced the development of six new fringe suburbs – Diggers Rest, Lockerbie, Lockerbie North, Manor Lakes, Merrifield West and Rockbank North – which are planned to accommodate no fewer than 100,000 new residents.  Planning Minister Mathew Guy made a point of stressing these suburbs would be adequately planned and facilitated with appropriate infrastructure, and I don’t doubt the goodness of his intentions.  Currently there are barely a handful of small local primary facilities servicing the area.
However, locating an appropriate pocket zoned specifically to facilitate academic amenities is only one part of the equation – attracting teachers into the area is quite another.  This would seem to especially so following the largest teacher’s strike in the state’s history barely more than a week ago.  In light of this, it would seem the prospect of attracting additional educators to take up the slack is not currently looking encouraging.
Melbourne’s Docklands is another area lacking in educational facilities, with residents complaining they are encouraged to move out of the suburb before their <a href="https://www.docklandsnews.com.au/editions/article/we-are-not-happy-docklands-families-want-a-school_5308/" target="_blank">children reach five</a>, and while I welcome the recent announcement of an inner-city site in South Melbourne recently acquired to provide the proposed development at Fishermans Bend with primary school facilities, it’s a mere blip on the horizon in combating a far larger problem at hand.
Earlier this year, the Herald Sun flagged a concern citing “220 government schools” in Victoria alone that turn away local families due to pressures of capacity.  According to reports, 224 primary and secondary schools across Melbourne now have specific zoning and district restrictions.
The unfortunate bubble effect on real estate prices in well-established popular and restrictive school boundaries is an issue of concern especially when school zones are either reduced or extended based on under- or over-capacity.  Should a recently purchased property suddenly be placed outside the zone, it would result in an instant loss of equity to the family’s nest egg. The same would result if a school moved or for some reason closed.  Mowbray College in Melbourne – recently forced into administration – is one such example.  A family home previously marketed as being within walking distance of the college could no longer carry this attraction.
Furthermore, housing in school zones tends to be held for longer periods – periods lasting at least the length of a child’s secondary education and often beyond.  Issues of supply are therefore at the forefront of concern for families hoping to move in and get a bite of the educational cherry. And while school zoning may protect against over-crowding, thereby keeping kids local, it also restricts some families to either the local state facilities – good or bad – unless they are prepared to up sticks and move, or pay for private tuition.
No one would deny that financial literacy and the ability to see through the common myth that residential property doubles every seven to 10 years is becoming all too essential in navigating a successful plan to home ownership.
In an era of stricter lending requirements, sky-high debt-to-household disposable income ratios and what could promise to be an era of long-term economic uncertainty, it is vital we teach young potential home buyers how to minimise risk and save before they spend.
It would also be nice to think the new “Australian dream” would evolve around the vision that no one in 2050 should be hitting their 30s living paycheque to paycheque – with little idea where their super goes and no long-term financial plan.
However, in order to achieve the above, a good education is required –while I’m in no way suggesting that a child not attending a good school will never be a property owner.  I’m making a point for the perception that accessing quality education is causing families substantial pressures of affordability.
It subsequently leaves the question – do we do away with school zones all together?
Increase the number of education facilities in poorer suburbs and in doing so, meet the demands of teachers by pouring greater funding into the education coffers?
Encourage financial literacy, real estate acquisition and critical analysis within every school curriculum?
I have no answer – however there does seem to be a case for highlighting the unfortunate social divide between accessing quality education and the consequential “bubble” prices of accommodation in popular school zones.
Catherine Cashmore is a market analyst with extensive experience in all aspects relating to property acquisition.
</body></html>

catherinecashmore-6LXia3pPQj

Should we do away with school zones?

<html><body>
Grand final day is one of the biggest days in Melbourne’s calendar.  Statistically, one in 40 Melburnians will be in attendance at the MCG, with many more glued to screens around the city’s pubs and homes.
Bounce is at 2.30pm, Saturday September 29, with celebrations and commiserations continuing all through the night.
So how many vendors are game enough to risk their luck trying to sell a house on that one day in September? Apparently just 33, according to Australian Property Monitors.
The weekend before there are about 700 auctions scheduled, according to APM, and 500 on the following weekend.
Last year there were 50 auctions on grand final day and 50 the year before.
It's not an interruption in Sydney given the NRL grand final is at 5pm on Sunday, September 30, although school holidays has a lightening impact in both major capital cities.
Anthony Orellana from YPA Estate Agents Taylors Lakes is taking a four-bedroom Sydenham house to auction at 12.30pm on the day.
He says he’s not worried about losing interest to the big game.
“If you have something that people want they’ll come regardless,” Orellana says.
“How many times do you buy a house throughout your lifetime? It doesn’t happen that often.
“I’m not worried about missing the game. Carlton isn’t playing anyway.”
He hopes to sell the property for $320,000 to $350,000. He says he has four registered bidders who will be there on the day.
Property Observer has tracked down 29 of the auction listings:
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-vermont-111442015">14 McDonough Lane, Vermont, Vic 3133</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-glen+waverley-111469283">25 Cappella Court, Glen Waverley, Vic 3150</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-fitzroy+north-111477839">2 Percy Street, Fitzroy North, Vic 3068</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-essendon+north-111499339">1/36 Prince Street, Essendon North, Vic 3041</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://propertyobserver.com.au/administratorhttp:/www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-northcote-111499407">50 Brooke Street, Northcote, Vic 3070</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-townhouse-vic-malvern+east-111467779">1/42 Webster Street, Malvern East, Vic 3145</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-armadale-111488335">11 Mount Pleasant Grove, Armadale, Vic 3143</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-rowville-111390015">2 Shearer Drive, Rowville, Vic 3178</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-oakleigh+east-111431195">85 Clayton Road, Oakleigh East, Vic 3166</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-oak+park-111440351">232 Waterloo Road, Oak Park, Vic 3046</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-reservoir-111468871">91 Barry Street, Reservoir, Vic 3073</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-townhouse-vic-lilydale-111492527">2/10 Deschamps Street, Lilydale, Vic 3140</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-unit-vic-oakleigh+south-111390595">2/7 Dalgan Street, Oakleigh South, Vic 3167</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-kensington-111416827">18/1 Gatehouse Drive, Kensington, Vic 3031</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-hughesdale-111481915">23 Paget Street, Hughesdale, Vic 3166</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-blackburn+south-111492543">12 Holroyd Court, Blackburn South, Vic 3130</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-box+hill-111582287">13 Bass Street, Box Hill, Vic 3128</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-townhouse-vic-brunswick+east-111474835">202B Edward Street, Brunswick East, Vic 3057</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-mitcham-111487255">U1/8 Coppin Close, Mitcham, Vic 3132</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-clayton-111531659">5/1438 Centre Road, Clayton, Vic 3168</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-sunshine+north-110301917">100 Phoenix Street, Sunshine North, Vic 3020</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-burnside+heights-111414943">4 Albert Court, Burnside Heights, Vic 3023</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-springvale+south-111354183">4 Woodstock Place, Springvale South, Vic 3172</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-mount+waverley-111491775">118 Huntingdale Road, Mount Waverley, Vic 3149</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-meadow+heights-111421027">2 Eucalyptus Place, Meadow Heights, Vic 3048</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-sydenham-111418859">41 Bungarim Wynd, Sydenham, Vic 3037</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-unit-vic-hadfield-111460511">1/27 Larlac Street, Hadfield, Vic 3046</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-broadmeadows-111419063">106 Cuthbert Street, Broadmeadows, Vic 3047</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-caroline+springs-111392743">5 Osterley Close, Caroline Springs, Vic 3023</a>
The REIV’s Robert Larocca says there aren’t many auctions compared with other weekends, and they’re almost all in the morning.
"It is traditional that there is a low number of auctions on grand final day.
"Those that do have an auction always ensure it’s before the ball is bounced,” Larocca says.
"Overall it has no impact on the state of the market as everyone just avoids the afternoon for auctions, and those that are interested in one in the morning make the effort to turn up."
Melbourne's weekend clearance rate was 60% from the 619 auction results reported to the RIEV over the September 15 and 16 weekend. It was 57.5% in Sydney, according to APM.
</body></html>

awalsh-7Ub9EypybQ

AFL grand final day auction avoidance, with few vendors willing to risk missing the bounce

<html><body>Australian Property Monitors (APM) has released a list of results from 294  auctions in Sydney for the weekend of September 15. The clearance rate was 57.5%. <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>

po-LsXgBTHBmX

APM's 294 Sydney auction results show 57.5% clearance rate

<html><body>
The business of buying, selling and leasing of residential, rural and commercial property for investment purposes is well known and understood; the same cannot be said regarding the purchase of an operating business.
Business broking is a specialist sector of real estate, and investors, or those looking to develop their careers, would be wise to take note.
Some people like to buy a business as an investment, and others may want to use their skills to run it themselves. People buy and sell all manner of enterprises – from traditional ones, such as newsagents, or service enterprises, such as electricians, through to more modern ones, such as digital marketing companies.
Potential buyers and current owners need to know that the market for functioning businesses is substantially different to the broader property market. For sale signs are not always used and the advertisements do not always appear on the property sales websites.
As a result of these factors, a business broker is an important guide and adviser.
A business broker is a qualified real estate agent who specialises in the selling and buying of businesses. To effectively do their job, brokers need to be expert in a range of areas additional to those in which a residential or commercial estate agent specialises; after all, when a business is sold, different factors are considered in arriving at a ‘value’.
They need to be able to understand the particulars of the business they are selling, as the value in a business comprises of a range of related factors, including its current performance, customer base, competitors and future prospects.
To find an REIV business broker and learn more about business broking, visit <a href="https://www.reiv.com.au/" target="_blank">www.reiv.com.au</a>
</body></html>

enzoraimond-7fvRFHPR52

Why you need a business broker to invest in businesses

<html><body>
Young people have way too much to think about these days. Even youngsters who have only just begun their working lives are expected to know about superannuation, top-up limits and co-contributions. They’re expected to be responsible now for their retirement in 40 years’ time.
How did we get here? In 1992 the superannuation guarantee required all employers to put a mandated percentage of an employee’s salary into a super fund. The super guarantee could not be accessed until the worker retired.
So the onus for retirement shifted from the government and employer to the employee. And the quality of retirement for those in their 20s and 30s will be their own responsibility: the amount of retirement income they accumulate will depend on investment decisions made now.
The best time to build a nest egg is precisely in those years when you least want to think about it. Because super is a 40-year investment, small increases to contributions and slight changes in what kind of fund you use at the beginning of the journey can have a big impact at the retirement end.
Also, the very people who could be helping young people with advice – financial planners – are moving away from their old commission structure to a fee-for-service model. The fee-for-service model means the client pays for the level of service they receive. And because young people have less money and are less engaged with retirement planning in general, young people don’t go to planners.
This creates what some people call a “service gap”, which could cost people tens of thousands of dollars at retirement. We know from our own research that young people want advice about retirement, but they do not use planners.
Last year we polled 500 young people from Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne, aged 25-34 years. When asked how interested they were in planning for their future, 92 per cent answered either very interested or somewhat interested.
When asked if they plan on seeking advice to discuss their financial goals, around half answered “yes”.
This means that a huge majority of young people want to set themselves up for the future, but only half of them want to access the right advice. This is an important insight because financial planners don’t just help select the right super funds to invest in, they also set up the associated aspects of a person’s present and future wealth. They attend to the whole picture, something younger generations are not experienced about.
The investment options people nominate when they are not advised is illuminating. When asked what they’d be most interested in investing in, 51% said the share market, which is currently quite risky and volatile.
So the question has to be asked: why do young people feel more comfortable with a volatile investment class than they do with professional advice?
It’s an issue that has to be resolved if the self-funded retirement system is to work properly.
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/ybrwealth" target="_blank">Talk to me on Facebook</a> at or on <a href="https://www.twitter.com/@markbouris" target="_blank">Twitter</a>. Let me know what you think.
Mark Bouris is executive chairman of <a href="https://www.ybr.com.au/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Yellow Brick Road</a>, a financial services company offering home loans, financial planning, accounting and tax, and insurance.
</body></html>

mbouris-tauSvXGAM2

Why are young people comfortable with share market risk but not financial planners?

<html><body>
Fewer Melbourne inner-city and middle suburban residential listings augers well for rising clearance rate and strong demand in the later months of spring, according property advisory group Wakelin.
“A slower-than-usual increase in new residential property supply in spring may well underpin prices and auction clearance rates in the inner and middle suburbs of Melbourne,” says Wakelin in a new blog.
“Our sense, as things stand, is that spring 2012 will be characterised by reasonably good demand.
“That's based on our experience of the winter market which saw robust competition amongst buyers at many auctions in our inner and middle suburbs off the back of improved affordability stemming from lower prices and interest rates.”
Wakelin says that from discussions with a “broad number of industry colleagues, it looks like supply will be tighter than usual at the start of spring, and that the increase in supply we characteristically see in October may not happen”.
“We could be looking at a late run of supply in November and early December,” says the firm.
If Wakelin is right about demand building and constrained supply, this should result in a substantial rise in auction clearance rates rise and “prices firming with the possibility of some early spring capital growth”.
Melbourne achieved an auction clearance rate of 61% from 466 auctions last weekend, with a median price of $710,000 for houses and $540,000 for units.
Momentum is building in September, with 680 auctions listed this weekend and 740 next weekend.
Wakelin, headed by Melbourne property analyst Monique Sasson Wakelin, expects that recovery is likely to felt first in areas where supply is relatively scarce and finite – “established houses and apartments in our inner and middle ring suburbs”.
“Avoid property where supply is plentiful and theoretically infinite such as high rise apartments in the CBD and properties on new estates in our fringe suburbs.
In terms of price, Wakelin expects the sub-$600,000 market to recover first.
"This is where first home buyers and most investors operate. First home buyers, in particular, benefit most from falling interest rates, given their reliance on borrowing and low equity."
Ahead of the spring selling season, Melbourne online residential listings increased by 5.9% to just under 51,194 properties for sale, according to data compiled by SQM Research.
This followed a July decline of 12.6% with listings coming to a total of 48,322.
Year-on-year, Melbourne listings are up 14.% - in August last year there were 44,859 properties listed for sale in Melbourne.
Burrowing down into the SQM data suggests Wakelin may be right on the inner city with postcode 3000 – the Melbourne CBD – showing 891 listings in Melbourne in August, with listings trending down since about March this year.
Click to enlarge
<a href="/images/stories/2012/09/sqmsept141.gif" rel="shadowbox" title="Click to enlarge"><img src="/images/stories/2012/09/sqmsept141thumb.gif"></a>
Source: SQM Research
A more pronounced trend can be seen in the suburb of Kensington, about four kilometres north-west of the CBD, dating back to October last year:
Click to enlarge
<a href="/images/stories/2012/09/sqmsept142.gif" rel="shadowbox" title="Click to enlarge"><img src="/images/stories/2012/09/sqmsept142thumb.gif"></a>
Source: SQM Research
Listings are also declining in South Yarra, just south of the city:
Click to enlarge
<a href="/images/stories/2012/09/sqmsept143.gif" rel="shadowbox" title="Click to enlarge"><img src="/images/stories/2012/09/sqmsept143thumb.gif"></a>
Source: SQM Research
However some affluent suburbs like Toorak show a big jump in listings in August, well up on August 2011:
Click to enlarge
<a href="/images/stories/2012/09/sqmsept144.gif" rel="shadowbox" title="Click to enlarge"><img src="/images/stories/2012/09/sqmsept144thumb.gif"></a>
Source: SQM Research
Wakelin says that spring is often viewed as a testing ground by prospective vendors and buyers and expects that if the property market perform wells in September performs well in terms of clearance rates and pricing, it may encourage other buyers and sellers into the market.
“A late run to Christmas may also set a positive tone for the 2013 market when it re-opens in early February. And this would augur well for prospects in 2013.”
</body></html>

lschlesinger-FZcF9M3vE6

Strong spring selling season ahead for inner and middle Melbourne suburbs if supply remains constrained: Wakelin Property

<html><body>
Immigration trends, vacancy rates, housing undersupply and employment prospects all favour Queensland and Western Australia to lead the next phase of housing market growth over the next two to three years, according to BIS Shrapnel.
But the stars are not lining up in Victoria, with BIS Shrapnel’s team of forecasters and economists tipping up to four years of pain and downturn for its economy and housing markets.
“There is a lot of pain to come for Victoria, and there is a danger of the state going into a longer downward cycle,” warns BIS Shrapnel managing director Robert Mellor.
The pessimistic outlook for Victoria was repeated by BIS Shrapnel chief economist Frank Gelber, who apologised for such a dark outlook for the state given his comments were made in Melbourne in front of Victorian building industry participants.
“The weakness we have seen in Melbourne so far is only just the beginning,” he says.
Gelber is also critical of the Victorian state government for pulling back on infrastructure investment and stimulus measures, including ending the $13,000 first-home bonus at the end of June.
The Queensland state government is also reining in spending and culling its civil service, but the state has the benefit of the mining boom and is also supporting new housing construction through the just-introduced $15,000 first-home owner construction grant.
Taking a look a recent immigration data, Angie Zigomanis, senior manager at BIS Shrapnel, says there is already evidence of a pick-up in overseas migration – not to the 2009-10 high of nearly 300,000, but expected to reach around 250,000 people by 2013-14. A drop in overseas student numbers due to the high Australian dollar will prevent migration reaching previous highs, he says.
“Of this increase, WA and Queensland are expected to see the biggest improvement as their economies post some of the strongest growth and also attract strong numbers of interstate migration,” says Zigomanis.
WA in particular is picking up a great share of new overseas arrivals – 20% currently, compared with a long-run historical average of 13%, according to ABS figures.
The rise in immigration will cause population growth to pick up from around 1.34% in 2010-11 to reach 1.73% in 2013-14, with proportionally greater shares of growth in WA and Queensland, says BIS Shrapnel.
Both these states, along with NSW, also have significant dwelling stock deficiencies, while Victoria has been building too many new apartments and houses.
<table style="width: 470px;" border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td width="137" valign="top">
 
</td>
<td width="479" colspan="4" valign="top">
Dwelling stock deficiency as at June of year (- indicates oversupply)
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="137" valign="top">
 
</td>
<td width="120" valign="top">
2011
</td>
<td width="120" valign="top">
2012 estimate
</td>
<td width="120" valign="top">
2013 forecast
</td>
<td width="120" valign="top">
2014 forecast
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="137" valign="top">
NSW
</td>
<td width="120" valign="top">
28,900 units
</td>
<td width="120" valign="top">
38,600 units
</td>
<td width="120" valign="top">
49,400 units
</td>
<td width="120" valign="top">
52,800 units
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="137" valign="top">
Victoria
</td>
<td width="120" valign="top">
4,700 units
</td>
<td width="120" valign="top">
-6,600 units
</td>
<td width="120" valign="top">
-12,700 units
</td>
<td width="120" valign="top">
-15,000 units
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="137" valign="top">
Queensland
</td>
<td width="120" valign="top">
4,900 units
</td>
<td width="120" valign="top">
14,900 units
</td>
<td width="120" valign="top">
29,900 units
</td>
<td width="120" valign="top">
45,400 units
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="137" valign="top">
South Australia
</td>
<td width="120" valign="top">
-2,100 units
</td>
<td width="120" valign="top">
-2,400 units
</td>
<td width="120" valign="top">
-1,500 units
</td>
<td width="120" valign="top">
-100 units
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="137" valign="top">
WA
</td>
<td width="120" valign="top">
2,300 units
</td>
<td width="120" valign="top">
16,900 units
</td>
<td width="120" valign="top">
33,800 units
</td>
<td width="120" valign="top">
46,000 units
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="137" valign="top">
Tasmania
</td>
<td width="120" valign="top">
-1,900 units
</td>
<td width="120" valign="top">
-3,100 units
</td>
<td width="120" valign="top">
-4,000 units
</td>
<td width="120" valign="top">
-4,100 units
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="137" valign="top">
NT
</td>
<td width="120" valign="top">
300 units
</td>
<td width="120" valign="top">
500 units
</td>
<td width="120" valign="top">
1,100 units
</td>
<td width="120" valign="top">
1,700 units
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="137" valign="top">
ACT
</td>
<td width="120" valign="top">
0 units
</td>
<td width="120" valign="top">
-1,200 units
</td>
<td width="120" valign="top">
-2,300 units
</td>
<td width="120" valign="top">
-3,200 units
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="137" valign="top">
Australia
</td>
<td width="120" valign="top">
37,200 units
</td>
<td width="120" valign="top">
57,500 units
</td>
<td width="120" valign="top">
93,700 units
</td>
<td width="120" valign="top">
123,500 units
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
Source BIS Shrapnel andABS
BIS Shrapnel forecasts a 15,000 dwelling unit oversupply in Melbourne by the 2014 financial year, but in contrast a 52,800-dwelling undersupply in NSW, an undersupplyof 45,400  in Queensland and an undersupply of 46,000 in WA.
Also in WA and Queenslands' favour are relatively more affordable capital city housing markets and tightening rental markets. In Melbourne vacancies are rising, while median house and unit prices remain elevated.
"In a suburb like Morley, about nine kilometres north of Perth, the vacancy rate is 0.48%. People have to camp outside a property overnight with the hope of a getting a foot in the door,” says Zigomanis.
Also in Queensland and WA’s favour are strong jobs markets supported by the mining boom and businesses that service this sector – while Victoria has relatively little exposure to the resources boom.
The bottom line is that NSW and the mining states are at different stages of the property cycle than Victoria.
“Victoria and some of the smaller states and territories have supported residential building activity in recent years,” says BIS Shrapnel in its September 2012 residential property report.
“We are now starting to see the situation reversed as their economies slow and recent high levels of construction have created emerging oversupplies in those markets.
“On the other hand NSW and the mining states are coming off relatively low levels of residential building and their economies are set to show strong growth over [the next two-year] forecast period.
“With the demographic need for dwellings expected to pick up in line with stronger population growth in these states, significant stock deficiencies are beginning to emerge, particularly in Sydney.
“This will help drive an upturn in residential building  in these states over the forecast period, which will outweigh the falls experienced in the other states and territories.”
</body></html>

WA and Queensland housing markets to get demographic boost, but four years of cloudy skies for Victoria: BIS Shrapnel

<html><body>
11a Noelene Street, Fairfield West, NSW 2165
<img width="470" src="/images/stories/2012/09/noelene.jpg">
On a cul-de-sac with easy access to Fairfield Shopping Centre, this three-bedroom house is tenanted on a month-to-month basis for $420 per week, which listing agent Graham Ball of Ray White says is at market rent for the area. It was recently renovated and includes a study, which could be used as a fourth bedroom. 
Ball <a href="https://www.raywhitefairfield.com.au/pol/property/search.asp?f_propertyID=1934740&amp;xsl=4861&amp;f_st=1&amp;f_ct=&amp;f_ps=2&amp;p1=home" target="_blank">is marketing the property </a>with price hopes "towards $400,000", and if it sells for $390,000 it would secure an investor a gross rental yield of 5.6%, above at the median gross rental yield for Fairfield houses of 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 target="_blank" href="https://calc.washingtonbrown.com.au/wbdcalculator/calculator.aspx?RID=HPCAZOPTTT">Washington Brown</a> estimates the first-year tax depreciation deduction to be $5,000 and over five years to be $11,000.
The median house price in Fairfield fell 1.2% in the past year but rose 29.9% in the past five years, according to RP Data.
The property will be open for inspection Saturday, September 15 at 1pm and will go to auction Wednesday, September 26 at 6.30pm.
For more information about prices and yields in <a href="/news">Fairfield, see the RP Data suburb page.</a>
For another investment prospect going to auction this weekend, see page 2.
 
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
3/32 Sutherland Street, Hadfield, Vic, 3046
<img src="/images/stories/2012/09/sutherland1.jpg">
This three-bedroom Hadfield house includes polished floorboards, a diswhasher and high ceilings, and it is currently tenanted on a month-to-month basis at $1,452 per month. The tenants are keen to stay on, says listing agent Andrew Mizzi from Ray White. The house is so new it is still under the builder's warranty. 
Mizzi <a target="_blank" href="https://www.raywhite.com/vic/hadfield/839558/">is marketing the property</a> with price hopes of $300,000 plus, and if it sells for that price, that would secure an investor a gross rental yield of 5.8% at its current rent, well above the gross rental yield for Hadfield houses of 3.9%, 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 $9,000 and over five years to be $34,000.
The median house price in Hadfield fell 14.8% in the past year but rose 52.8% in the past five years, according to RP Data.
The property will be open for inspection on Saturday, September 15 at 4pm and will go to auction on Saturday, October 6 at 11am.
For more information about prices and yields in <a href="/news">Hadfield, see the RP Data suburb page.</a>
</body></html>

cknowlton-QnEa6ntUYP

Friday form guide: Yields of up to 5.6% in Fairfield

<html><body>
Buyers fossicking for discounted properties might strike gold on the NSW central coast. Or even gold bullion bars on Forresters Beach.
Six months ago a good Samaritan beachcomber found a gold bar worth $18,000 on Forresters Beach and turned it into the police.  Although the bar had a serial number, the police were unable to locate its original owner, and this week police handed the bar back to its finder. Talk about striking gold on the central coast! 
Five of the 10 most discounted properties in Australia are on the NSW central coast, according to SQM Research.
The property at 23 The Corso, Gorokan, has had its price hopes slashed to $440,000 plus this week, making it the eighth most discounted property in Australia. The vendors originally hoped for $680,000 when it was first listed almost two years (658 days) ago. 
"With 50% of the list now being occupied by homes from this region, it appears ... that the area is undergoing some serious price correction," says SQM Research director Louis Christopher. 
1
 <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/Property/For-Sale/House/NSW/Forresters-Beach/?adid=2008587390" target="_blank">6 South Scenic Road, Forresters Beach, NSW, 2260</a> (pictured)
<a href="https://www.domain.com.au/Property/For-Sale/House/NSW/Forresters-Beach/?adid=2008587390" target="_blank"></a>Days on the market: 707 Initial asking price: $2 million Current asking price: $1.1 million Reduction: 45%
2
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-livestock-qld-caboolture-7262420" target="_blank">19 Lychee Drive, Caboolture, Queensland, 4510</a>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-livestock-qld-caboolture-7262420" target="_blank"></a>Days on the market: 832 Initial asking price: $949,000 Current asking price: $586,000 Reduction: 38%
3
<a href="https://www.domain.com.au/Property/For-Sale/House/NSW/Greendale/?adid=2008766488" target="_blank">202 Wolstenholme Avenue, Greendale, NSW, 2745</a>
Days on the market: 594 Initial asking price: $2.95 million Current asking price: $1.85 million Reduction: 37%
4
<a href="https://www.domain.com.au/Property/For-Sale/House/NSW/Green-Point/?adid=2008850003" target="_blank">3 Wharf Road, Green Point, NSW, 2251</a>
Days on the market: 546 Initial asking price: $950,000 Current asking price: $599,000 Reduction: 37%
5
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-wa-two+rocks-106211228" target="_blank">15 Gretel Two Rocks 6037</a>
Days on the market: 980 Initial asking price: $1.1 million Current asking price: $699,000 Reduction: 36%
6
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-tas-white+beach-106479093" target="_blank">588 White Beach Road, White Beach, Tasmania, 7184</a>
Days on the market: 832 Initial asking price: $780,000 Current asking price: $499,000 Reduction: 36%
7
<a href="https://www.domain.com.au/Property/For-Sale/Townhouse/NSW/Magenta/?adid=2007217761" target="_blank">1302 Birkdale Place, Magenta, NSW, 2261</a>
Days on the market: 1,537 Initial asking price: $700,000 Current asking price: $450,000 Reduction: 36%
8
<a href="https://www.domain.com.au/Property/For-Sale/House/NSW/Gorokan/?adid=2008670949" target="_blank">23 The Corso, Gorokan, NSW, 2263</a>
Days on the market: 658 Initial asking price: $680,000 Current asking price: $440,000+ Reduction: 35%
 
9
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-wa-armadale-105464925" target="_blank">99 Lowanna Way, Armadale, WA, 6112</a>
Days on market: 1,249 Initial asking price: $1.85 million Current asking price: $1.2 million Reduction: 35%
10
<a href="https://www.domain.com.au/Property/For-Sale/Penthouse/NSW/Bondi-Junction/?adid=2008805959" target="_blank">31 North Scenic Road, Forresters Beach, NSW, 2260 </a>
Days on the market: 406 Initial asking price: $2.3 million Current asking price: $1.5 million Reduction: 35%
 
SQM Research also offers a list of the <a title="SQM Research" href="https://www.sqmresearch.com.au/top100bargains.php" target="_blank">Top 100 Biggest Bargains in Australia </a>for sale.
</body></html>

Latest Buying Insights

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

Editor's Picks

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

Latest Buying Insights

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

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News