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

Joel Robinson

Abadeen unveils penthouse at Park Residences in Cremorne

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

Dalcott targets owner-occupiers with South Brisbane debut Marrone

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

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

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

ODUS releases $18 million penthouse crowning La Mer Main Beach

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

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

Sydney’s property market is known for high prices, competitive bidding, and mounting pressure on first home buyers. But change is on the horizon.

From late 2025, eligible first home buyers in New South Wales will have access to a new federal government initiative aimed at addressing affordability: the Help to Buy Scheme.&nbsp;

<h2>What is the Help to Buy Scheme?</h2>

The program introduces a shared equity model intended to reduce the upfront cost of entering the property market, particularly in high-demand urban areas such as Sydney.

The scheme operates under a shared ownership structure in which the federal government takes an equity stake of up to 40 per cent for new homes, or 30 per cent for existing dwellings. This arrangement allows eligible buyers to significantly reduce their loan size and avoid the added cost of Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI).

Under this model, purchasers can enter the property market with as little as a two per cent deposit, well below the traditional 10 to 20 per cent usually required. The government’s contribution is not a loan but a co-ownership stake in the property. As such, there is no interest or rent charged on its portion.

Because the government’s equity combined with the buyer’s deposit typically meets or exceeds the 20 per cent threshold, LMI does not apply. The remaining balance, generally between 60 and 70 per cent of the property’s value, is financed through a standard home loan with a participating lender.

The government's equity in the property remains in place until the buyer chooses to repay it voluntarily or until the property is sold. Buyers can buy back the government’s share over time, in increments of at least five per cent, depending on their financial situation.

There is no fixed repayment timeline, but the amount to be repaid will be based on the property's market value at the time of repayment, not the original purchase price.

<h2>How do you qualify for the&nbsp;Help to Buy Scheme?</h2>

To qualify for the Help to Buy Scheme, applicants must meet the following conditions:

<ul>
	<li>Be an Australian citizen at least 18 years of age.</li>
	<li>Be a first-home buyer who does not currently own property.</li>
	<li>Intend to live in the property as their primary residence.</li>
	<li>Earn less than $100,000 per year for individuals, or $160,000 for couples.</li>
	<li>Purchase a property within the regional price caps, currently $950,000 in Sydney, though this is expected to rise to approximately $1.3 million ahead of the program’s launch.</li>
</ul>

While the Help to Buy Scheme does not solve affordability challenges across the board, it does offer a more accessible pathway for a defined segment of the market, particularly younger buyers with moderate incomes who have been priced out of traditional lending routes.

The scheme is expected to commence in NSW in late 2025, as part of a national rollout.

Under the new model, purchasers can enter the property market with as little as a two per cent deposit, well below the traditional 10 to 20 per cent usually required

Help to Buy Scheme: What first home buyers in NSW need to know

The First Home Owners Grant (FHOG) is a government initiative designed to help eligible first-time home buyers by offering financial assistance towards the purchase or construction of a new home.

While the FHOG is a nationwide program, it is administered separately by each state and territory, meaning the eligibility criteria, grant amounts, and property requirements can vary depending on your location. This means that the amount available and the conditions attached to the grant will differ, so it is important to check the specific guidelines for your state or territory.

It’s important to note that the FHOG is just one of several incentives available to first home buyers. In most states and territories, the grant is not linked to stamp duty exemptions or concessions, with the exception of the Australian Capital Territory (ACT). The FHOG is typically a one-off payment, reducing the overall cost of purchasing or building a new home before any stamp duty concessions are applied.

Below, we provide a breakdown of the First Home Owner Grants available across Australia, outlining the specific details for each state and territory.

<h2>New South Wales First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes valued up to $600,000. For land purchases and owner-builders, the threshold extends to $750,000.

Stamp Duty Benefits: Provides full stamp duty exemption for homes valued up to $800,000, with concessions available for properties up to $1 million.

<h2>Victoria South Wales First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Provides a $10,000 grant for first-home buyers purchasing or building new homes valued up to $750,000.

Stamp Duty Benefits: Offers full stamp duty exemption for properties up to $600,000, with concessions available up to $750,000.

<h2>Queensland First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers $30,000 for contracts signed between 20 November 2023 and 30 June 2025. The FHOG applies to new homes valued up to $750,000.

Stamp Duty Concessions: Provides additional concessions for properties valued up to $800,000.

<h2>Western Australia First Home Owner Grant</h2>

&nbsp;

First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes valued up to $750,000 in the southern regions and up to $1 million in the northern regions.

Stamp Duty Concessions: Available for homes valued up to $600,000 for transactions entered into on or after 9 May 2024.

<h2>Australian Capital Territory First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Replaced by the Home Buyer Concession Scheme, offering full stamp duty concessions for eligible buyers.

<h2>South Australia First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Provides up to $15,000 for new homes, including houses, apartments, and townhouses. As of 6 June 2024, there is no property value cap for eligibility.

Stamp Duty Relief: Available for new homes and vacant land purchases.

<h2>Tasmania First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes and off the plan purchases.

Stamp Duty Exemption: Between 18 February 2024 and 30 June 2026, first home buyers of established homes valued up to $750,000 receive a full exemption on property transfer duty.

<h2>Northern Territory First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: The Northern Territory provides a $10,000 grant for new homes only. Additional government grants and concessions are available for first home buyers.

Stamp Duty Exemption: The only stamp duty exemption available to property buyers is the House and Land Package Exemption (HLPE).

Eligibility criteria and application processes differ across states. Prospective buyers should refer to their respective state revenue offices for full details on grant availability, conditions, and additional concessions.

Every First Home Owner Grant for new property by state

In the ever-evolving landscape of sustainable architecture and environmentally conscious design, systems and ratings in place can help determine the energy efficiency of residential buildings in Australia.

Australia has multiple building rating systems that evaluate energy efficiency and sustainability in existing and new building designs.

Some systems assess individual building components, while others provide an overall rating for the entire structure.

A rating system ensures that homes are comfortable and energy-efficient, whether you are buying, renovating, or building.

NatHERS (Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme) is a common way for new homes to meet energy efficiency requirements.

As new developments continue to shape the urban environment, understanding NatHERS ratings becomes essential for developers and homeowners. This article delves into the concept of NatHERS ratings, their significance, and how they contribute to creating energy-efficient homes.

<h2>What is NatHERS?</h2>

NatHERS is a national initiative implemented by the Australian government to promote energy efficiency in residential buildings. The scheme aims to provide a standardised method for assessing the thermal performance of homes, considering factors such as insulation, orientation, ventilation, and building materials.&nbsp;

NatHERS ratings are the most common way new homes meet the National Construction Code's (NCC's) minimum energy efficiency requirements.&nbsp;

NatHERS assessments provide thermal and whole-home ratings for new homes, townhouses, and apartments.

The rating helps evaluate the energy performance of buildings, guides homeowners and developers to make informed decisions about the energy efficiency of their properties, and encourages the construction of more sustainable, comfortable, and cost-effective homes.

<h2>How NatHERS Ratings Work</h2>

NatHERS ratings are determined through four accredited software tools (AccuRate, BERS Pro, FirstRate5, HERO) using a calculation engine CSIRO developed to predict building temperature based on various factors.

The tools can model complex effects of building mass, insulation, window size, and other elements.

The outcome is a star rating that reflects the building's overall thermal efficiency, indicating how well it can maintain a comfortable indoor temperature without excessive reliance on heating or cooling systems.

The star rating scale ranges from 0 to 10, with a 6-star rating being the minimum requirement for compliance with the National Construction Code (NCC).&nbsp;

Achieving a higher star rating demonstrates a commitment to energy efficiency and sustainability, as the building is better equipped to minimise its environmental impact and reduce long-term energy costs.

Anyone can use NatHERS tools, but accredited assessors can provide certified ratings and professional advice.

<h2>Benefits of Higher NatHERS Ratings</h2>

Energy Efficiency: Buildings with higher NatHERS ratings are more energy-efficient, requiring less heating and cooling energy. This reduces the structure's carbon footprint and lowers occupants' energy bills.

Cost Savings: Homes with higher NatHERS ratings are generally more energy-efficient, resulting in reduced energy consumption for heating and cooling. This translates to lower energy bills for homeowners, making sustainable living environmentally friendly and economically viable in the long run.

Environmental Impact: Lower energy consumption directly translates to a reduced environmental impact. Buildings with higher NatHERS ratings contribute to the overall goal of mitigating climate change by lowering greenhouse gas emissions associated with heating and cooling systems.

Improved Comfort: Buildings with high NatHERS ratings offer better thermal comfort to occupants. Proper insulation, well-designed ventilation, and optimal orientation maintain a consistent and comfortable indoor temperature, providing occupants with a more enjoyable and healthier space.

Market Value and Desirability: Higher NatHERS ratings can enhance the market value of a property. As energy efficiency becomes a more significant consideration for homebuyers, a well-rated building may attract a premium price and stand out in the real estate market.

Compliance with Building Codes: NatHERS ratings are a vital component of the National Construction Code (NCC), and compliance with these ratings is often a mandatory requirement for new developments. Local councils and planning authorities may set minimum energy efficiency standards that must be met to obtain development approval.

The Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS) is a crucial initiative shaping the future of energy-efficient, resilient, and cost-effective homes. With its recent upgrades, NatHERS has evolved into a world-leading tool for the building sector, supporting the global commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

Staff Writer

What is a NatHERS rating in new off the plan apartment developments?

Mixed-use developments have gained significant popularity across Australia in recent years due to their unique blend of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces.

Unlike traditional single-purpose developments, mixed-use projects offer a harmonious integration of various functions within a single locale.

Residential units seamlessly coexist with commercial establishments, retail outlets, dining venues, entertainment hubs, and recreational facilities, with the combination not only enhances convenience but also fosters a vibrant lifestyle and a sense of community.

<h3>Convenience and accessibility</h3>

Mixed-use developments are designed with convenience in mind. They often integrate residential units with commercial spaces, retail outlets, restaurants, and recreational facilities, creating a self-contained community.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114215 project_image_fid=204874]

The proximity allows residents to enjoy the convenience of having essential amenities and services within walking distance. Whether it's grabbing a cup of coffee, going grocery shopping, or accessing healthcare services, everything is conveniently located, saving residents time and effort.

<h3>Vibrant lifestyle and community</h3>

One of the major advantages of mixed-use developments is the vibrant lifestyle they offer. With a diverse range of amenities and communal spaces, residents have ample opportunities to interact, socialise, and build a sense of community.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107714 project_image_fid=214122]

The presence of parks, community centres, and shared spaces fosters a lively atmosphere, encouraging residents to engage in various activities and events. The vibrant lifestyle within these developments creates a unique sense of belonging and camaraderie among the residents.

<h3>Potential for higher rental yields and property value appreciation</h3>

Mixed-use developments tend to attract a broad range of tenants and buyers due to their versatile nature. This high demand can result in higher rental yields for investors and potentially lead to property value appreciation over time.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139989 project_image_fid=212887]

The integration of commercial and retail spaces attracts businesses, which can provide a stable rental income stream. Additionally, the popularity of mixed-use developments often drives up property values, making them a potentially lucrative investment in the long term.

<h3>Enhanced security and maintenance</h3>

Mixed-use developments typically have comprehensive security measures in place. With controlled access points, CCTV surveillance, and professional security staff, residents can enjoy enhanced safety and peace of mind.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108019 project_image_fid=212658]

Additionally, these developments often have dedicated maintenance teams responsible for the upkeep of common areas, landscaping, and infrastructure. This ensures that the overall appearance and functionality of the development are well-maintained, creating a pleasant living environment for residents.

<h3>Live-work-play balance</h3>

One of the key attractions of mixed-use developments is the ability to achieve a desirable live-work-play balance. The integration of residential and commercial spaces allows residents to live closer to their workplaces, reducing commuting time and improving work-life balance.

The proximity to various amenities and recreational facilities encourages an active and healthy lifestyle. Residents can easily access fitness centres, parks, restaurants, and entertainment options, all within the same development, leading to a more fulfilling and convenient way of life.

alisonwarters@gmail.com

The top five reasons to buy in a mixed-use development

When buying a property, everyone needs to be aware of the additional costs that come as part of the buying process.

Often the largest outlay, after the deposit which goes to the bank, is stamp duty.

<h2 style="line-height: 1.38;">What is Stamp Duty?</h2>

Stamp duty is an extra tax to pay the government when you buy land, a property, and other certain assets.

It happens when the legal ownership is transferred. It can also be known as property transfer duty or transfer duty.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="415" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/C32BWkB5--c" title="YouTube video player" width="660"></iframe>

<h2>Who pays Stamp Duty?</h2>

In some circumstances, you may get an exemption. For some states, you won’t have to pay for stamp duty if you are a first home buyer or a pensioner for houses under a particular price. There are also stamp duty concessions, where you may be entitled to a discount.

<h2>How much does Stamp Duty cost?</h2>

Each state has different rules which affect how much you need to pay. These rules can affect the rate you pay, and the timeframe you will need to pay in. Before you buy land or a property, make sure you check the up-to-date information for your state’s stamp duty.

You can use a free stamp duty calculator online to see approximately how much you’ll need to pay. Find out if you’re eligible for an exemption by enquiring on a project via Urban!

Overall, the stamp duty you need to pay will depend on:

<ul>
	<li aria-level="1">How much your land/property is worth</li>
	<li aria-level="1">Where your land/property is located</li>
	<li aria-level="1">What type of land/property it is</li>
</ul>

Want to find out more? <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@UrbanAustralia?utm_source=YouTube&amp;utm_medium=Video&amp;utm_campaign=Subscribe&amp;utm_id=Subscribe">Subscribe to our YouTube channel</a> for more property videos.

Ellen Walker

Off-the-plan property explained: What is stamp duty?

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

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

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Melbourne's weekend clearance rate of 62% was lower than the previous weekend's 63%, but higher than the 55% on the same opening spring weekend in 2011.
There were 455 auctions reported to the Real Estate Institute of Victoria, which expects around 540 auctions next weekend.
Marshall White vendors secured an 82% success rate, with one property selling before auction, and 17 further properties sold under the hammer.
The sales included the highest result for Melbourne – a substantial 1930s residence at 15 Torrington Place in Canterbury, which sold for $3.25 million after being contested by five bidders.
Its reserve was exceded by $340,000 by Marshall White selling agent James Tostevin, who has sold 11 out of his last 13 auctions – with nine having at least two bidders.
''I think the market's evenly priced. It's not slumping but it's not increasing either. People can upgrade with some confidence so long as they're realistic about their property's value,'' he told Fairfax Media.
Another prestigious property at 13 Millicent Avenue, Toorak, exceeded its reserve by $425,000 to sell for $3.16 million through Marshall White.
But the most valuable property going to auction, 779 Orrong Road, Toorak, was passed in on a $7 million vendor bid by Kay &amp; Burton. The weekend results indicate healthy buyer interest but also a much lower level of stock than normally seen on the market at this time of year, according to Marshall White director Justin Long.
Sydney's weekend clearance rate of 63.9% was higher than the previous weekend's 61.8%, but higher than the 51.8% on the same opening spring weekend in 2011, according to Australian Property Monitors.
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Five buyers competed for 1930s Canterbury offering, with auction clearances above 60% in Melbourne and Sydney

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In the final round of <a href="https://www.propertytycoon.com.au/" target="_blank">Property Tycoon</a> winter season there were strong auctions in both Melbourne and Sydney.
At 4 Queen Street, Kew (pictured below), a crowd of buyers, neighbours and gawkers totalling more than 100 looked on as six bidders vied for the right to call the property home.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/08/kew.jpg">
No half-time break was required for auctioneer Steven Abbot from Jellis Craig as competitive bidding resulted in the magical words “we are on the market” being whispered in his ear as the auction was in full flight. When the dust settled the new owner had a $2.865 million contract to honour.
After being quoted at $2.4 million plus, this was a huge result as the Kew home buyer market flexed its muscle and shrugged off any negative market sentiment. For the record, fewer than 2% of tippers won this tip.
MC has taken out the title of Property Tycoon and the $1,000 price in Melbourne with a portfolio value of $28,645,499. Monkeygirl39 was in second place just $150,000 behind.
It was another big turn-out for the auction of 9 Weedon Avenue, Artarmon (pictured below), as a crowd of more than 60 greeted the auctioneer. More importantly was that five of these people had registered their intention to bid.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/08/artamon.jpg">
After quoting the property at $1.4 million plus, the vendor was determined to sell the property on the day and the reserve was set at $1.4 million.
With the property firmly on the open market it was left to three of the five registered bidders to determine its value, and when the bidding stopped that price was $1,575,000.
The result at Weedon Avenue sent shock waves through the Property Tycoon leader board. It pushed the round 11 leader MC5777 down to fourth and propelled MelissaM, with a portfolio value of $23,433,989, into the lead and the title of Property Tycoon.
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marmstrong-sd3emVLPPb

Strong results for Melbourne and Sydney auction tipping competition properties in last round of winter competition

<html><body>Australian Property Monitors (APM) has released a list of results from 269 auctions in Sydney for the weekend of September 1. The clearance rate was 63.9%. <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>

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APM's 269 Sydney auction results show 63.9% clearance rate

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"Spring auction cheer; Spring property's pot of gold; Spring tipped to mark rebirth of seller market: Spring into auction; Spring suprise for Sydney vendors; Market's on a spring roll."
Making any celebratory spring forecast after the first day's results is not something I'll emulate. Best left to the Fairfax real estate scribes.
Yes the weekend results were good – at around 62% in Melbourne and 64% in Sydney – but let's await the results of deeper spring before claiming such successes.
But its actually highly likely that many home vendors will give the traditional spring auction scene a bit of a miss in favour of private sales or staying put.
There are some interesting statistics showing Melbourne's had 3,800 fewer auctions this year than at the same time last year.
Real Estate Institute of Victoria spokesman Robert Larocca has suggested its not so surprising shift in the way Melbourne houses were being sold.
"Due to the lower level of demand, more sellers and their estate agents are choosing to sell by private sale this year,'' he suggests.
There have been about 15,876 auction listings this year, compared with the 19,686 listings in the year to August 2011 and the 21,532 in the year to August 2010, according to the REIV.
So a 19% drop in auction listings so far this year.
In Sydney the auction listings pattern is similiar, but not as pronounced given there's a hint of market recovery. 
Sydney auctions in the year to August stood at 13,236, according to Australian Property Monitors senior economist Dr Andrew Wilson, compared with 15,164 in the same eight-month period in 2011.
It reflects around a 12% decline. It was 15,858 in the 2010 period, says Wilson, who describes the weekend results as "encouraging" while acknowledging that the true test of spring vendor success comes later. Wilson says while last spring was flat due to an "affordability hangover" the next few months ought to be the best in several years. Presumably in part because unlike last year, this spring is starting with a shortfall in fresh listings. There are a high number of houses and units for sale, but many have been on the market for a long time and new listings are scarce.
The interesting spring challenge  for estate agents therefore is making the right marketing recommendation for their vendors that best reflects their clients' best interest.
“The shift highlights the importance of sellers working with their estate agents to select the best sales method for their home, it really does differ depending on your home and its location,"  says Larocca.
All this is against the overall backdrop of more people actually staying put, amid concerns about falling house prices, higher taxes, job security and the global economic conditions.
The REIV data suggest auction sales volumes in 2012 and 2011 are at a low point when compared with every year since 2000.
The institute forecast just 20% of property sold this year could be at auction – down on the 24% on the same time in 2010 and 29% on 2009.
"This is not surprising, and it is a trend repeated whenever Melbourne has a flat year,'' Larocca says.
Melbourne's auction clearance rate so far this year at 61% – nothing wrong with that really except for bootime historical constrast like the 83% auction clearance rate in the first eight months of 2009.
Sydney's overall clearance rate this year has been 53.9% according to APM, marginally lower than 2011's 54.5%, but still some way off the 64% success rates of 2009 and 2010.
No selling season is ever the same, and despite the subdued circumstances this spring, I'd still suggest we won't be spared from all those Super Saturday superlatives. Some things never change.
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Spring selling superlatives mask the shift away from auction

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This Saturday marks the 12th and final round of Property Tycoon winter season, and the competition at the top of the leader board is still wide open. With more than $7 million up for grabs in both Melbourne and Sydney the top 10 Tycoons in both cities are still in the hunt to take out the title and the $1,000 prize.
For those who want to have a harmless punt, there's now a tipping website, <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.propertytycoon.com.au/" target="_blank" style="font-size: 14px;">www.propertytycoon.com.au</a>, where punters can guess auction five results in Melbourne and Sydney, with no outlay. It's mostly about testing your market knowledge with a small cash prize as a sweetener.
When looking for real estate that will make you money potential is an important ingredient. The property at 9 Weedon Road, Artarmon, one of five Sydney properties going to auction this weekend in round 12 of the competition, is not everything it could be just yet. However, the option to renovate it into a great family home 10K kilometres from the CBD on almost 700 square metres of land is the potential you should be looking for.
The three-bedroom, single-bathroom solid brick home has been cosmetically renovated and would make a comfortable home initially.  It is located a short walk from shops, parks, public transport and is the Artarmon public school catchment area.
Agent John McManus says there has been strong interest during the marketing campaign, with most buyers talking in excess of $1.4 million.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/08/artamon.jpg">
If you think you know what it will sell for place a tip at <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.propertytycoon.com.au/" target="_blank">Property Tycoon</a>.
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Sydney auction tipping: Plenty of potential in Artamon

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3/31 Dover Road, Williamstown, Vic 3016
<img src="/images/stories/2012/08/doverrd.jpg">
The tenants of this one-bedroom apartment are paying $1,213 a month and are on a lease until March of next year. The ground-floor unit is within walking distance of The Strand Waterfront, Douglas Parade shops and cafes, as well as the train station. 
Williams Real Estate agent Lauren Montebello <a href="https://www.williamsre.com.au/property-details.aspx?id=4369&amp;from=searchlisting" target="_blank">is marketing the property</a> with price hopes of $280,000 plus, and if it sells for that price, that would secure an investor a gross rental yield of 5.2% at its current rent, well above the gross rental yield for Williamstown houses of 3.7%, 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 $4,000 and over five years to be $11,000.
The median house price in Williamstown fell 3.3% in the past year but rose 33.8% in the past five years, according to RP Data.
The property will go to auction Saturday, September 1 at 12.30pm.
For more information about prices and yields in <a href="/news">Williamstown, see the RP Data suburb page.</a>
For another investment prospect going to auction this weekend, see page 2.
<hr>
8 Henderson Street, Merrylands, NSW, 2160
<img src="/images/stories/2012/08/henderson.jpg" width="470">
The tenants of this two-bedroom house have been in residence for 15 years and are paying $425 a week. Laing + Simmons listing agent Jas Singh says it could potentially fetch $10 or $15 more a week but that the vendor is happy to have a stable tenant rather than insist upon market rent. The weatherboard cottage on 525 square metres has high ceilings, a garage and a small study. 
Singh <a href="https://www.laingsimmons.com.au/residential-sales/95012-8-henderson-street" target="_blank">is marketing the property</a> with price hopes in the "early to  mid-$400,000s", and if it sells for  $450,000 it would secure an investor a gross rental yield of 4.9%, about at the median gross rental yield for Merrylands houses of4.6%, 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 $3,000 and over five years to be $6,000.
The median house price in Merrylands rose 1.1% in the past year and rose 24.7% in the past five years, according to RP Data.
The property will be open for inspection Saturday, September 1 at 11.15 and will go to auction Saturday, September 22 at noon.
For more information about prices and yields in <a target="_blank" href="/news">Merrylands, see the RP Data suburb page.</a>
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Friday form guide: Yields of up to 5.2% in Williamstown

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This Saturday marks the 12th and final round of Property Tycoon winter season, and the competition at the top of the leader board is still wide open. With more than $7 million up for grabs in both Melbourne and Sydney the top 10 Tycoons in both cities are still in the hunt to take out the title and the $1,000 prize.
For those who want to have a harmless punt, there's now a tipping website, <a style="font-size: 14px;" target="_blank" href="https://www.propertytycoon.com.au/" rel="nofollow">www.propertytycoon.com.au</a>, where punters can guess auction five results in Melbourne and Sydney, with no outlay. It's mostly about testing your market knowledge with a small cash prize as a sweetener.
Since it was purchased in 2007 for $1.49 million the owners have gone to town on 4 Queen Street, Kew, and renovated it to the highest quality. There is a clear line of demarcation between the old and the new with this timber Edwardian. The front retains its amazing façade complete with return veranda before transforming into an ultra-modern haven at the rear.
Absolutely nothing needs to be done to this four-bedroom home other than live and enjoy it. Agent Greg Toogood from Jellis Craig has indicated buyer interest above $2.4 million.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/08/kew.jpg">
If you think you know what it will sell for place a tip at <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertytycoon.com.au/" rel="nofollow">Property Tycoon</a>.
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Melbourne auction tipping: Kew home renovated to the highest quality

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<img src="/images/stories/2012/08/14mplus.gif">
How much a first-time buyer of commercial property has paid for an office building at 11 Dorcas Street in South Melbourne in an off-market sale negotiated by CBRE’s team of Mark Wizel and Justin Clarkson on behalf of a group of private Melbourne-based investors. The modern five-level office building is fully leased to information technology company Dimension Data. Based on the current passing income the sale reflects a yield around 8.1%. The building was purchased by a Malaysian family who has been keen to secure a Melbourne property for some time. CBRE says the sale of 11 Dorcas Street adds to the ever-growing list of Victorian commercial properties to sell to interests associated with Malaysian, Singaporean or Chinese investors.
 
<hr>
 
<img src="/images/stories/2012/08/1point52m.gif">
The net income generated by a peripheral parcel of Sydney Corporate Park, set to be sold by F.Hannan Properties Pty Ltd in what will be the first investment-grade opportunity in South Sydney this year. The asset comprises two tenanted buildings totalling 8,857 square metres on 13,642 square metres of land. The net income translates to an average of $170 per square metre net. Colliers International’s Michael Crombie and Gavin Bishop are seeking expressions of interest closing September 19, 2012. The last investment sale of this kind was in November 2011, when Dexus paid $76.8 million for the Sir Joseph Banks Corporate Park in Botany.
 
<hr>
 
<img src="/images/stories/2012/08/501k.gif">
How much Osrta Cabinets has paid for a 366-square-metre strata warehouse 2/7-11 Brough Street in Springvale in Melbourne’s south-east. The industrial property was purchased from a private investor in a deal negotiated by Jamie Stuart and Sasan Misaghian from Colliers International. The purchaser is expanding and relocating a cabinet-making business from Tullamarine.
 
<hr>
 
 
<img src="/images/stories/2012/08/4point45m.gif">
The price paid for the property housing the iconic Mary Ryan’s Books, Music and Coffee store in Milton in Brisbane in a deal negotiated by Colliers International. The off-market deal, in which a local private investment company purchased the retail property at 40 Park Road, was struck by agents Jock Murray and Hunter Higgins. The property consists of a circa 700-square-metre building on an 810-square-metre site.
 
<hr>
 
<img src="/images/stories/2012/08/1point9m.gif">
The price paid for a blue-chip investment in Australand’s Checkpoint business park at Banyo, five kilometres west of Brisbane Airport. Anthony White, Colliers International industrial director, handled the transaction on Australand’s behalf for the 746-square-metre industrial strata unit at 11/368 Earnshaw Road. It was snapped up by a private investor from Sydney.  The property has been leased to Zip Heaters since the beginning of the year, when it signed a six-year lease with a five-year option. The property returns a net annual rental of just under $160,000, representing a yield of 8.25% for the buyer. As well as the return, White says the buyer was attracted by the solid tenant, the long-term lease in place and the standard of property’s construction.
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Commercial hammer prices: Malaysian family pays $14 million plus for South Melbourne office tower

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New homes sales fell by about 6% in July, wiping out all the gains recorded over the previous five months.  Sales stand at the second lowest level in 11 years.
In short, the housing construction market is back in the doldrums.  Newly erected homes aren’t selling, reducing the requirement for builders to start work on new projects.  The RBA governor has expressed surprise about the lack of home construction.
The housing industry is “lost” for an explanation as to why this is happening.
You see for mine, new property isn’t in strong demand because what is supplied is increasingly missing the mark; so, too, is how new property is promoted and its current method of disposal – a price reduction – just doesn’t work.  In fact, it does more damage than good.
In short, too much of the new stock on the market is poorly proportioned, designed, finished or sufficiently offset to entice buyers.
Likewise the promotion of new product is mostly homogenous, stale and reflects more the age, sex and circumstances of the development company directors than who they are trying to sell their product to.
Customers don’t want to hear about a developer’s history.  They do, however, want to know about their previous development’s performance.  Strange how few developers actually supply such details.
They also don’t really want all the lists that sales people seem to provide – pages of research material, very little of it relevant; brightly coloured brochures, dozens of floor plans/home designs.  They do want, however, trusted third-party endorsement.
Combined years of experience – give me a break.  Mostly repetition if you ask me.
Also, they aren’t interested in what makes your project different.  They only want to know what’s in it for them.
Let me close with a few remarks about discounting price.  There is a substantial body of very well-credentialed research to suggest that buyers prefer “extra for free” rather than the more generous “reduction in the asking price”.
It essentially boils down to a bonus versus a bribe.
Keep in mind that a building bonus; a first-home buyer’s grant or even a reduction/removal of stamp duties on new product is seen by the market as a “discount”.
Price tells the market much more about a product than merely what it costs.  A price cut – however it is packaged – is often seen as a mark of mild desperation on the part of the seller and it is not unreasonable to infer that the product is either inferior and/or that further price reductions are just around the corner.
Charging the full price but adding a tangible extra – i.e. a furniture package, guaranteed rental return, storage fit-out, or a fixture and finishes upgrade – does not convey the same level of desperation.  In fact, more often than not it enhances the product’s brand.
For mine, the new housing industry – in the main – is quite lost.  It still operates like a landline phone.  It isn’t a smartphone or a tablet.  It is analogue, not digital.  It is at odds with its target market(s) and until this disconnect is improved, new housing starts will remain low.
Hard words indeed from someone who is male, pale and increasingly stale, too.
And just to show my age, I have been listening to Rodriquez – Sugar man/Crucify your mind/I wonder/Sandrevan lullaby fame (even saw him in concert at the Tivoli last year) – of late.
So you think you have something to offer
Something shiny and new
But how much of you is repetition
And how much of that did you do poorly too?
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.wordpress.com%20/" 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>. 
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michaelmatusik-49YzLvdmNv

Housing industry in the doldrums because supply is missing the mark

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In this post I am going to look at the links between project websites, pre-sales, and the importance of display materials.
Firstly I wanted to briefly outline how the site can be used to support an ROI (registration of interest) campaign. I also want to reinforce how essential it is for small projects to accurately target key markets, which will help appreciate the role of online activity. Because no matter how good a website looks, or how well it is constructed, there is a need to create awareness of the site, as it is not a source but a medium of enquiry.
The real estate industry is one of the largest users of online advertising, with an ever-increasing level of spending. Real estate was one of the first industries to exploit this media, and so we have already established a wealth of experience. Now the big changes taking place revolve around how funds are spent online.
Project marketing online expenditure usually involves email, commonly referred to as eDM (electronic direct marketing), targeted display advertising on the major property portals, paid search such as Google AdWords, organic search (search engine optimisation), video – usually via YouTube –and online audio or podcasts.
The understanding of how to benefit from online advertising is still evolving. The main reason for this stems from the reality that this is not a simple formula- or template-driven environment. We are dealing with a highly literate and experienced audience, therefore it is exactly the opposite.
There has been a big increase in the number of projects using ROI campaigns with the aim of securing pre-sales, in particular the sale of apartments off the plan. However, despite the popularity of ROI campaigns, I feel it is timely to emphasise that a solid framework built around a complete strategy is required. An experienced sales team should always have an existing quality database that can be a solid launch point.
Key aspects of ROI campaigns
While there can always be some buyer resistance in gaining pre-sales, there are also strong buyer motivations that can help to make the process worthwhile. Timing and the use of a well-structured website will be essential for the project to gain traction.
By comparison with larger projects, the motivation of buyers interested in small projects is frequently far less speculative. This group may well include experienced buyers looking for a particular area, or buyers driven by very specific lifestyle considerations.
While such buyers may not be easy to identify, during the course of a ROI campaign, they can be engaged via quality communications, including a well-managed online campaign and website to capture the leads.
At the start of such projects the value of existing quality databases will, as already highlighted, be an obvious advantage.
However, any database will only be of value if it is up-to-date and matches the needs of those who have taken time and effort to register. Because we are dealing with a smaller number of potential buyers, communication needs to be constructed with care, and a general scattered approach is a big negative. Our target may well lose interest if ongoing contact is poorly managed.
ROI campaigns will suffer if the marketing is not in tune with local conditions and buyers’ expectations. Flawed timing and inaccurate collateral would be a costly mistake. This is where we also start to see an overlap with the display material that will be required to support a small project.
I also stress that the same “rules” will still apply even when a small project, by its very nature, has a strong level of pent-up demand. While the buyers might not be camping on the streets, from a marketing perspective, they still share one important facet and this relates to the timing and accuracy of information available.
A major CBD apartment project can be flexible or staged, and the potential buyers will normally have more choice. Buyers can also take their time and possibly cherry-pick available stock, but in a small project this will not be the case. Once buyers have been attracted they need to be taken on a sales path that will readily secure the purchase.
Peter Chittenden is managing director for residential of <a href="https://www.colliers.com.au/Colliers%20Corporate/Residential.aspx" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Colliers International.</a>
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