Roseville is poised for a wave of new apartment development following the NSW Government's rezoning of land around Roseville Station under its Transport Oriented Development program.

The new planning controls have unlocked significant development potential within walking distance of the station, with a number of sites expected to be amalgamated and redeveloped in the coming years as developers seek to take advantage of the increased density allowances.

One of the more restrained developments in the precinct, and set among the first to be delivered having commenced well before the recent changes, is Hyecorp's Juliet. The boutique apartment project is already well under construction and remains on track to welcome residents by the end of the year, offering a markedly different proposition to many of the larger-scale developments now likely to emerge across the suburb.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7395 project_image_fid=278194]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/juliet-roseville-64-pacific-highway-roseville-nsw-2069">Juliet</a> will comprise just&nbsp;34 one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments opposite Roseville Station. For Hyecorp, which has delivered projects across Sydney's Lower North Shore for more than three decades, Roseville presented a rare opportunity to address a growing gap in the market.

"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/roseville-nsw-2069">Roseville</a> has long been one of the North Shore's most tightly held and desirable suburbs, offering a unique combination of village charm, established greenery, excellent transport connections, and proximity to some of Sydney's best schools and lifestyle amenities," Hyecorp said.

"We recognised a growing demand from local homeowners seeking to downsize without leaving the community they have built their lives around. The location presented a rare opportunity to create homes that cater specifically to that buyer profile."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7395 project_image_fid=278196]

The six-level development has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/pbd-architects">PBD Architects</a> as a collection of residences that feel more like homes than apartments. The brief centred generous floorplans, abundant natural light, quality finishes, and strong connections to outdoor space.

PBD Architects drew inspiration from Roseville's established garden suburb character, creating a building that sits comfortably within its surroundings rather than dominating them. The architecture incorporates natural materials, soft forms, layered landscaping, expansive balconies, and generous setbacks to strengthen the connection between residents and the suburb's leafy environment.

"The focus was on designing spacious, house-like residences for discerning owner-occupiers and downsizers who wanted to remain on the North Shore without compromising on comfort, privacy, or design," PBD said.&nbsp;

"Every apartment was to feel considered, timeless, and highly functional."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7395 project_image_fid=278195]

Inside, residences feature engineered timber flooring, stone kitchen benchtops and splashbacks, integrated Fisher &amp; Paykel appliances, ducted air conditioning, and large outdoor entertaining areas designed to take advantage of district and treetop views.

Residents will also have access to a rooftop barbecue and lounge area, alongside practical amenities including parcel lockers, EV charging capability, bicycle storage, a dog wash bay, and a basement car wash facility.

The majority of purchasers so far have been local owner-occupiers from Roseville, Lindfield, Chatswood, Killara, and the broader Upper North Shore, many of whom are transitioning from larger family homes.

"Buyers are looking for spacious, house-like apartments that allow them to downsize without feeling like they are sacrificing comfort or functionality," Hyecorp noted.

"They value large kitchens, generous living areas, ample storage, quality finishes, secure parking, lift access, and low-maintenance living."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7395 project_image_fid=278204]

Juliet sits directly opposite Roseville Train Station and within walking distance of Roseville Village, while Chatswood's retail and dining precinct is only minutes away. The development is also surrounded by some of Sydney's most established schools, including Roseville College, Ravenswood, Pymble Ladies' College, and Knox Grammar, as well as nearby parklands and golf courses.

Juliet is currently more than 75 per cent sold ahead of its anticipated completion in late 2026.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=7395]

Joel Robinson

Juliet to sit quietly amid Roseville apartment boom

Sherpa Property Group has unveiled the third instalment of its Flourish series, securing full approval for the two-tower, $500 million Flourish Soleira development in Palm Beach.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-soleira-1150-1154-gold-coast-highway-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Soleira</a> will rise from a prominent site in the commercial heart of Palm Beach, the long-time home of Cash Converters and a range of local retailers.

The project will introduce a new retail and dining precinct at ground level, beneath 286 apartments.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=370959]

“We’re very committed to not only providing affordable residential offerings that are much needed in Palm Beach, but also delivering a vibrant new commercial heart that complements the extraordinary growth of the southern Gold Coast,” Sherpa Property Group founder Christie Leet said.

The development will sit under Sherpa's Flourish brand, which is aimed at providing a pathway into the beachside suburb for locals, first-home buyers and downsizers. In a move designed to assist first-home buyers entering the market, Sherpa has reserved all one and two-bedroom, one-bathroom apartments exclusively for eligible first-home buyers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=370964]

“Our vision through Flourish is to create a vibrant retail and lifestyle focal point within the Palm Beach centre zone, delivering thriving communities underpinned by lifestyle-rich locations,” Leet said.

“So far, Flourish has been an incredible success, and we hope to carry this momentum as we progress the next two Flourish projects in Palm Beach.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=371430]

Located across 1150-1164 Gold Coast Highway and 3 Sixth Avenue, the development will comprise two towers. The northern tower will deliver 154 apartments, while the southern tower will add a further 132 residences, helping address ongoing demand for new apartments in the tightly held coastal suburb.

Flourish Soleira will also feature the most extensive rooftop amenity offering ever delivered in Palm Beach.

The two towers will be connected by a skybridge, with residents gaining access to a rooftop recreation deck featuring a full-width swimming pool, hot and cold plunge pools, wellness spaces, a gymnasium, private dining facilities, massage treatment rooms, barbecue areas, a basketball court, golf simulator, indoor and outdoor dining spaces, sun lounges and extensive landscaping.

LPS Group is expected to start construction later this year.

Sherpa is already well advanced on construction of its debut Flourish project, Flourish Amargo, located just around the corner from Soleira. Meanwhile, Flourish Oasis, positioned opposite Amargo, recently commenced construction and has nearly sold out its collection of 47 apartments.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150017]

Sherpa unveils $500m mixed-use Palm Beach precinct, Flourish Soleira

Are mortgage holders set to get a reprieve from the RBA in 2026?

Big Four bank NAB believes so. They are now expecting the next move from the RBA to be a cut, rather than a hike, which they had pencilled in for August. They are unsure of the timing of the cut however, they note in their latest&nbsp;NAB Economics RBA Watch.

NAB Chief Economist, Dr Sally Auld, said recent data suggests the economy has lost momentum and the outlook for rates has shifted, noting that the broader economic backdrop has changed since earlier in the year.

“The next move in the cash rate is likely to be down, but the timing is uncertain," Dr Auld said.

"In February, growth was above trend, the economy was operating above capacity and there was uncertainty over the restrictiveness of rates. None of these conditions exist today,” she outlined.

Dr Auld said recent data pointed to softer momentum across the economy while acknowledging that at the same time, uncertainty remains a key feature of the outlook.

“Both Q1 GDP data and the NAB business survey suggest momentum in the economy has slowed, meaning that growth has likely peaked for the cycle. That said, we are cognisant there is still considerable uncertainty around the outlook, both with respect to activity and inflation.”

Dr Auld said inflation risks and labour market outcomes would be important to watch.

“On the prices side, we are still forecasting above target core inflation through to mid-2027. Margins will compress and weaker labour market outcomes are a risk.”

She said tighter financial conditions are expected to weigh on housing and activity.

“Tighter financial conditions will be reflected in a slowing in house price growth and housing credit growth. In summary, we have greater conviction that the next move in rates is down, but less conviction on the timing.”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Every First Home Owner Grant for new property by state

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

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

Staff Writer

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

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

alisonwarters@gmail.com

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

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

Ellen Walker

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

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Some 24 apartments had been sold during the initial three-week marketing of Vaughan Constructions’ recently unveiled Carlton project, Bravo by selling agents Oliver Hume.
Located between two parks, Lincoln Square and Argyle Square, the $65 million Pelham Street residential development has 118 apartments over 11 levels. Demolition of the current warehouse is scheduled for October with completion by 2014.
<img src="/images/stories/bravo1.jpg">
It’s been designed by the architecture and interior design practice Hayball, with architect Ann Lau saying she drew inspiration from the mid-20th-century Milan, when a new urban lifestyle was embraced and driven by multi-level apartment buildings near the city centre.
She sought the Modernist creed of utility with “raw materials and a sense of theatre”.
<img src="/images/stories/bravo4.jpg">
Hayball has sought from ground floor up to create a vertical village, including two-storey street-level apartments and a garden wall deep into the foyer creating a conservatory-like ambience.
“Upstairs corridors, vestibules, foyers and stairways are light-filled, spacious, internal ‘streets’ designed to encourage interaction between neighbours,” Lau says.
<img width="300" src="/images/stories/bravo2.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 5px;">
The street-level Soho-style offerings – five one-bedroom dual-key terraced apartments – are priced from $640,000. They have 76 square metres space plus 11 square metres of terracing.
The 108 two-bedroom apartments all come with flexible rooms capabilities. The rooms can be modified via full-height, extra-wide sliding timber panels adapting rooms to suit their functional requirements or aesthetic moods.
 
They are priced from $430,000 to $585,000 being sized from 53 to 61 square metres, plus terracing from eight to14 square metres.
There are five split-level penthouse apartments with private rooftop terraces located on levels 10 and 11, the first of which sold at its mid-week launch night.
The pricing is from $1.1 million to $1.25 million. The three-bedroom penthouse apartments range in size from 105 square metres to111 square metres plus terracing from 37 to 86 square metres.
There will be 54 car parks within the building via a car stacker system, being included with apartments from the sixth floor up.
Oliver Hume exective director Jamie Kay says the pricing of apartments without car spaces had been aimed at the investor market.
"Yields are stronger without car spaces in this village location," Kay envisages.
Secure storage will be available for 60 bicycles.
The developer and builder of Bravo is Vaughan Constructions, whose family business links in Victoria can be traced back to the 1850s, now being run by the fourth generation of the family.
<img src="/images/stories/bravo3.jpg">
It is one of Australia’s top 400 private companies, with an annual turnover of over $200 million with Vaughans currently building 19 sites across Melbourne, four in Sydney two in Perth and a project in South Australia.
Construction projects along the way included work on the Shrine of Remembrance in partnership with stonemasons Lodge Bros.
Vaughan Constructions Pty Ltd business was established in 1955, however the family business in Melbourne dates back to 1858, when Daniel Vaughan migrated from County Clare, Ireland and established a cartage business.
 
 
 
 
 
 
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Carlton parkside project Bravo sells 24 apartments in first three weeks

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7/70 Nepean Highway, Seaford, VIC, 3198
<img src="/images/stories/nepeanhwy.jpg">
Directly opposite the beach, this two-bedroom Seaford unit is currently let until August at $245 per week. The property comes with a courtyard for entertaining and carport, and it is within walking distance of Seaford village.
Barry Plant agent Peter Howard says it is in "liveable condition" but that it could use "a small bit of an update". He says that any renovation to the proprety would increase its rental potential. The median asking rent for Seaford units is $275 per week, according to RP Data.
Howard<a target="_blank" href="https://www.barryplant.com.au/property.cfm?propertyID=2010243&amp;realestate=70_Nepean_Highway_SEAFORD_VIC_3198&amp;menuItemID=41771"> is marketing the property</a><a href="https://maroubra.ljhooker.com.au/P9SFA0" target="_blank"> </a>with price hopes $220,000 plus, and if it sells for that price that would secure an investor a gross rental yield of 5.8% at its current rent, substantially above the median indicative gross rental yield of 4.3% for Seaford units, 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 $5,000.
The median unit price in Seaford rose by 1.5% in the past year, according to RP Data.
The property will be open for inspection Saturday, April 21 at 11am and will go to auction on Saturday, May 19 at 11am.
For more about prices and yields in Seaford, see the <a target="_blank" href="/news">RP Data suburb page.</a>
For another investment prospect going to auction this weekend, see page 2.
 
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
49 Macquarie Street, Greenacre, NSW, 2190
<img src="/images/stories/macquariest.jpg">
This three-bedroom house is currently tenanted at $500 per week, which is market rent for the area, according to listing agent Bassam Barake of Elders Real Estate. The lease is expired but the tenant is keen to stay on. The 670-square-metre block includes a garage and garden shed.
Barake<a target="_blank" href="https://www.eldersrealestate.com.au/residential/buy/property-house-nsw-greenacre-492148"> is marketing the property</a> with price hopes in the "high $500,000"s. If it sells for $580,000 that would secure a gross rental yield of 4.5%, about at the indicative gross rental yield for Greenacre houses of 4.6%, 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. If it sells for $600,000, that would secure an investor a gross rental yield of 4.3%.
<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 $4,000 and over five years to be $9,000.
The median house price in Greenacre rose 3.2% in the past year, according to RP Data.
The property will go to auction Saturday, April 21 at 3pm.
For more about prices and yields in Greenacre see the RP Data suburb page.
 
 
 
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cknowlton-QnEa6ntUYP

Friday form guide: Yields of up to 5.8% in Seaford

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The Goodman Group's hopes for quick approval for its inner-city Sydney residential high-rise development site have been further dashed, with the site failing to get through the first stage of state government fast-tracking approval initiative.
It had been among the 43 properties nominated by landowners seeking special consideration by the NSW Department of Planning.
Goodman failure to secure the amber light this week from the Planning Minister Brad Hazzard was ontop of earlier bad news when the department determined to limit the site to nine storeys, down from the 19 storeys granted by the former Labor state government.
The site is a nondescript Erskineville industrial estate set on Mitchell Road between Erskineville Oval and Sydney Park.
Lord mayor <personname ns1:w:st="on">Clover Moore</personname> told Property Observer the minister’s decision would allow the council to finalise appropriate planning controls for the Ashmore site. 

“Our planning controls, developed after thorough research and community consultation, limit Ashmore’s buildings to nine storeys or less, and deliver new streets, bike lanes, a small supermarket and 15,000 square metres of open space.

“I was extremely concerned about how the increased height and density approved by the previous government would impact the area, and the process by which the changes were made. 

“The City did the work to show how those changes would affect residents, including increased traffic, loss of regional views and significant overshadowing.” 

“We organised a public meeting on Ashmore and consequently received more than 500 public submissions complaining about these impacts.” 

“Ministers Hazzard and Berejiklian have also responded to community concerns about parking and traffic impacts by agreeing to increase public transport for the Ashmore precinct as development proceeds and residents move in," Moore says.
 <img src="/images/stories/metters.jpg">
The site was once headquarters of the Metters factory, producing ovens and boilers. Its best-known brand was the 1930s Kooka range of gas cooking appliances. The Metters factory site dates to 1906, when the firm, established on Rundle Street in Adelaide in 1891 by Frederick Metters, moved from its small factory on Alice Street at Newtown. Metters stayed there until the early 1970s, about the time it was taken over by Email.
It had an $81 million book value as at June, with the site's tenants including Toll Priority and Ausdoc.
The entire Ashmore precinct has been identified for urban renewal since 1998, with Sydney lord mayor Clover Moore recently suggesting the city’s second largest industrial area offered a rare opportunity to create a sustainable new neighbourhood.
"We want to create a neighbourhood which includes the right infrastructure and sustainable design to improve the lives of current and future residents," Moore says.
She says the City of Sydney has been working with the community on the future redevelopment plans.
Under the <a href="https://www.planning.nsw.gov.au/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=G29rsFcvki8%3d&amp;tabid=561&amp;language=en-AU">latest state government initiative</a>, some 31 sites face further review on the basis of government-endorsed objectives by the review committee, chaired by the Director-General of the Department of Premier and Cabinet.
 
 
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Nothing oversized cooking at Goodman's Sydney Metters site, as Planning Minister agrees with council 

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Adelaide’s highest residential building – dubbed the “leaning tower of Adelaide” – has been approved, with construction on the 22-storey project to start next year.
Datong Australia will construct the $120 million building on the corner of Flinders and Pulteney streets. It will be 75 metres high.
<img src="/images/stories/leaning2.jpg">
The pricing of the 149 apartments, which will range from 50 to 85 square metres, has yet to be released, but last year the developer gave indications they were expected to range between $300,000 and $1.2 million. Its off-the-plan marketing will begin mid-year. The approval process was lengthy, finally securing permission this week the state government's Development Assessment Commission, as it exceeded the area's 40-metre height limit.
<img style="float: left; margin: 5px;" src="/images/stories/leaning1.jpg">
The Pruszinski Architects-designed building will have 60% of units on building corners.
Director Paul Pruszinski has said the design resembled a pile of papers being picked up and fanning out from pinching fingers. The highest residential tower in Adelaide is currently credited as the 1970-built King William Tower, which is 20 floors and 70 metres high, followed by the more recent 62-metre-high Conservatory on Hindmarsh, which was completed in 2009.
Datong Australia’s parent company, Datong China, is based in <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yunnan">Yunnan province</a>, located in the far south west of the country.
It has been developing since the 1980s. Datong is a combination of two Chinese words or concepts. “Da” means large or leading, while “tong” is a metaphor for a smoothened road.
Datong also had a seven-storey Adelaide apartment building on Gouger Street approved this week.
“Datong intends to become a leading player in the development and rejuvenation of the Adelaide CBD,” Datong Australia chairman Jin Liang told the Australian Financial Review last year.
 
 
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‘Leaning tower of Adelaide’ secures approval and set to be city’s tallest residential building

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A 71-storey tower with 592 apartments and 566 car parking spaces at the site of the Queensbridge Hotel, Southbank has been approved by Victorian Planning Minister Matthew Guy.
It’s a $275 million Bates Smart-designed high-rise tower that at 276 metres high will be Melbourne's second-tallest building – squeezed between Eureka at 297 metres and Rialto at 254 metres.
<img src="/images/stories/queensbridge1.jpg">
"The tower will be a stunning addition to Melbourne's skyline, with an innovative design to reflect its location at a key gateway linking Southbank and the CBD,” Guy says.
"Southbank is a natural extension of the Melbourne CBD and is an area that is constantly evolving, with architecturally inspiring development forging ahead," he adds.
The development will consist of three platinum and silver glass cylinders.
Bates Smart also designed the nearby Freshwater Place for Australand.
It was early 2010 when furniture magnate and property developer Tony Schiavello bought the property, once home to nightclub QBH, which abutted other property he had owned for several years.
Click to enlarge
<a href="/images/stories/queensbridge2.jpg" rel="shadowbox" title="Click to enlarge"><img src="/images/stories/queensbridge2thumb.jpg"></a>
The Schiavello Group is also building the 250-metre, 67-storey Prima Pearl Tower in the precinct.
The group, ranked as one of Australia’s top 200 private companies by BRW, was founded in 1966 by Tony and his younger brother Joe.
Locals claimed the proposal failed five key planning regulations.
 
 
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Melbourne’s second-tallest residential tower receives approval for Southbank Queensbridge Hotel site

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When I explain to people what I do and how I’ve made a business out of what I love – developing property – they often say, “I wish I could do something like that”.
My reply is always, “You can do it. If I can do it, you can do it.”  What I’ve worked out over time is the difference between someone who fails and someone who succeeds is the courage to act, not just once, but repeatedly.
Something else I’m often asked is: when is the right time to invest in property? In my books, the right time is now. I’ve seen so many people over-analyse the market and end up sitting on the sidelines for years because they’ve lacked the confidence to take action and invest. Then they look back and say, “If only I did buy that property back then...”   I’m not recommending you buy any old property, of course you must do your due diligence, but when you’ve ticked the boxes and the deal stacks up, have the courage to act.
An important element to help us act is to overcome fear. Fear is a powerful emotion and is described in the dictionary as “an unpleasant emotion caused by the awareness of danger or expectation of pain”, which I’m sure we have all felt at some point in our lives.
Any successful investor will tell you the journey has not all been plain sailing. They have all learned to overcome doubt, fear and uncertainty along with recognising the persistent drive to never give up.
To some of us, the thought of failing or making a mistake is traumatic. Others seem to be able to pick themselves up and keep going until they make the next mistake only to pick themselves up again. They learn from each mistake and see them as opportunities to improve.  This is the type of resilience needed to enable us to bounce back each time. Is it passed on from parents who have instilled this resilience into their children, or is it learned? From my experience, I believe it is learned over time. It’s like anything, if you want to be good you have to practise. Repeat the process time after time and keep refining it.
As a property development project manages this is exactly what we do. Every development is different, each piece of land brings challenges, but we can overcome them easily now because of our experience and yet we are constantly looking at ways to improve our process.
While reading a blog on the internet, I came across these tips, 9 Steps to Overcome Fear, which I’d like to share with you.  As a property developer and businesswoman I could really relate:
<ol>
<li>
Make the decision to succeed - Once you decide on success you rarely allow doubt to enter your mind. Your persistence, dedication and resilience are strengthened. You free yourself to do the uncommon and the impossible. 
</li>
<li>
Take risks – Chase your fear. Do what scares you. Make the dreaded phone call. Ask for what you want. When you experience rejection ask someone else. 
</li>
<li>
Be prepared – Anticipate your own needs. Don’t live in fear, create solutions in advance. Know how you will get out, get over, around and through what could go wrong. 
</li>
<li>
Let go of urgency and fear – Learn to relax and go with the flow. Our anxiety and stress are caused by living in the pain of the past or the far of the future. Life happens in the present moment. 
</li>
<li>
Focus on the benefits of your success – Become focused on what you will gain. Is your benefit financial freedom, travel, saving the lives of others or leaving a legacy you can be proud of? When the going gets tough, focus on your why. 
</li>
<li>
Calm your body – Find a quiet place and bring attention inward, notice where your fear resides in your body. Learn to calm and centre yourself. 
</li>
<li>
Create your own fan base – Your family and friends will be supporting you to succeed. When you are scared, imagine them all cheering you on. 
</li>
<li>
Participate in life – Turn off your television, electronics and the negative media. Take a guitar lesson, a skydiving or yoga lesson or swim in the ocean to basically feel good. 
</li>
<li>
You are enough – Accept who you are and where you are today. When you compare yourself to others, you create your own suffering.</li>
</ol>
When thinking about developing property, the whole process can be daunting. Stay focussed on the end result, make sure you take action and move toward your goal by taking one step at a time.
Tips from <a href="https://zenhabits.net/" target="_blank">www.zenhabits.net</a>
 Jo Chivers is director of <a target="_blank" title="Property Bloom" href="https://www.propertybloom.com.au/">Property Bloom</a>, which manages property development.
 
 
 
 
 
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jochivers-wq5Bp59R5a

Property development is daunting, but you must learn to master your fear

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Almost half of the 95 apartments in Abacus Property Group’s new Brighton development, 380 degrees, have sold since the project launched in February.
The $110 million development at 380 Bay Street will comprise five levels and is designed to appeal to buyers seeking luxurious, low-maintenance living options in the affluent suburb.
“With apartment living growing exponentially in recent years, 380 Degrees has been carefully designed to capture the epitome of contemporary Australian living,” says Abacus Property Group associate director John Bush.
He says the development appeals to “a broad range of buyers, including empty nesters, investors, corporate high flyers and first-home buyers”.
<img src="/images/stories/380degrees1.jpg">
About 40 of the apartments have been sold to date. Construction commenced in March this year and is set to be finished in late 2013.
There will be 42 one-bedroom apartments, which will range in size from 55 to 75 square metres and from $460,000 to $600,000. Of these, 31 will include a multipurpose room/study, and these start from $545,000. The 40 two-bedroom offerings will be between 80 and 117 square metres internally and will range between $639,000 and $995,000 in price. There will be 13 three-bedroom units of between 102 and 125 square metres, priced between $1.11 million and $1.27 million.
According to RP Data, 20% of the dwelling stock in <a href="Almost%20half%20of%20the%2095%20apartments%20in%20Abacus%20Property%20Group%E2%80%99s%20new%20Brighton%20development,%20380%20degrees,%20have%20sold%20since%20the%20project%20launched%20in%20February.%20The%20%24110%20million%20development%20at%20380%20Bay%20Street%20will%20comprise%20five%20levels%20and%20is%20designed%20to%20appeal%20to%20buyers%20seeking%20luxurious,%20low-maintenance%20living%20options%20in%20the%20affluent%20suburb.%20%E2%80%9CWith%20apartment%20living%20growing%20exponentially%20in%20recent%20years,%20380%20Degrees%20has%20been%20carefully%20designed%20to%20capture%20the%20epitome%20of%20contemporary%20Australian%20living,%E2%80%9D%20says%20Abacus%20Property%20Group%20associate%20director%20John%20Bush.%20He%20says%20the%20development%20appeals%20to%20%E2%80%9Ca%20broad%20range%20of%20buyers,%20including%20empty%20nesters,%20investors,%20corporate%20high%20flyers%20and%20first-home%20buyers%E2%80%9D.%20About%2040%20of%20the%20apartments%20have%20been%20sold%20to%20date.%20Construction%20commenced%20in%20March%20this%20year%20and%20is%20set%20to%20be%20finished%20in%20late%202013.%20There%20will%20be%2042%20one-bedroom%20apartments,%20which%20will%20range%20in%20size%20from%2055%20to%2075%20square%20metres%20and%20from%20%24460,000%20to%20%24600,000.%20Of%20these,%2031%20will%20include%20a%20multipurpose%20room/study,%20and%20these%20start%20from%20%24545,000.%20The%2040%20two-bedroom%20offerings%20will%20be%20between%2080%20and%20117%20square%20metres%20internally%20and%20will%20range%20between%20%24639,000%20and%20%24995,000%20in%20price.%20There%20will%20be%2013%20three-bedroom%20units%20of%20between%20102%20and%20125%20square%20metres,%20priced%20between%20%241.11%20million%20and%20%241.27%20million.%20According%20to%20RP%20Data,%2019.7%%20of%20the%20dwelling%20stock%20in%20Brighton%20comprises%20units,%20with%20about%2060%%20detached%20houses.%20The%20median%20unit%20price%20in%20Brighton%20fell%204.8%%20last%20year.%20Architecture%20firm%20Rothelowman%20is%20behind%20the%20striking%20design.%20%E2%80%9C380%20Degrees%20will%20be%20an%20excellent%20addition%20to%20the%20area.%20The%20building%E2%80%99s%20fa%C3%A7ade%20will%20feature%20perforated%20metal%20sliding%20panels%20to%20create%20a%20stylish%20winter%20garden%20effect,%E2%80%9D%20says%20Interiors%20Rothelowman%20associate%20Clementine%20Inglis.%20%20%E2%80%9CSpacious%20balconies%20and%20terraces%20have%20been%20designed%20to%20capture%20indoor%20and%20outdoor%20living,%20whilst%20creating%20a%20sense%20of%20sanctuary%20and%20privacy,%20which%20is%20perfect%20for%20entertaining%20and%20escaping.%20Each%20apartment%E2%80%99s%20interior%20will%20reflect%20minimalist%20style%20with%20a%20sophisticated%20fit%20out%20%E2%80%93%20wide%20floorboards%20and%20modern%20cabinetry%20to%20polished%20fittings%20and%20flush%20surfaces%20throughout%20help%20ensure%20a%20prevailing%20sense%20of%20openness,%20the%20perfect%20elements%20to%20create%20a%20home%20and%20a%20lifestyle.%E2%80%9D" target="_blank">Brighton </a>comprises units, with about 60% detached houses. The median unit price in Brighton fell 4.8% last year.
<img src="/images/stories/380degrees2.jpg">
Architecture firm Rothelowman is behind the striking design.
“380 Degrees will be an excellent addition to the area. The building’s façade will feature perforated metal sliding panels to create a stylish winter garden effect,” says Interiors Rothelowman associate Clementine Inglis.
<img src="/images/stories/380degrees3.jpg">
“Spacious balconies and terraces have been designed to capture indoor and outdoor living, whilst creating a sense of sanctuary and privacy, which is perfect for entertaining and escaping. Each apartment’s interior will reflect minimalist style with a sophisticated fit out – wide floorboards and modern cabinetry to polished fittings and flush surfaces throughout help ensure a prevailing sense of openness, the perfect elements to create a home and a lifestyle.”
 
 
 
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Brighton development 380 Degrees about half-sold two months after launch

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Viking apartments, the $80 million, 10-storey, 108-apartment block at Green Square, is now being completed by Iwan Sunito’s Crown Group.
Construction is anticipated to begin on the new landmark building to be known as Viking by Crown in June, with completion expected in 18 months. Located at 30-36 O’Dea Avenue, the final 24 apartments have now been released for sale.
The prices range from $490,000 to $575,000 for one-bedroom units and from between $740,000 and $900,000 for the two-bedroom offerings. Its three-bedroom units range between $997,000 and $1.3 million. The penthouses start at $1.23 million and hit $1.75 million.
Viking by Crown has been designed by MPRDG architects – headed by Brian Meyerson – to give all apartments floor-to-ceiling glass, a wide loggia and views to the CBD and adjoining parklands.
Its coloured panel louvres are expected to create an ever-changing hue on its façade.
Inspiration for the design was drawn from the work of internationally renowned Israeli artist Yaacov Agam, founder of the post-war kinetic art movement and creator of ground-breaking sculpture, paintings and architecture
The building, to be set on a narrow wedge shaped island site, was initially proposed by Simon Skibsted’s Feheni Pty Ltd, which has owned the 5,050-square-metre Waterloo site since 1987.
In late 2010 CBRE Residential secured 77 red-dot sales within six week.
The 2010 prices were 41 one-bedroom apartments, up to 66 square metres with balconies up to 12 square metres, priced from $465,000 and levies from $500 a quarter.
Its 41 two-bedroom apartments, some with studies, up to 108 square metres with balconies up to 40 square metres, 2010 prices from the mid-$600,000s, with levies from $700 a quarter.
The 26 three-bedroom apartments, up to 133 square metres with balconies up to 100 square metres, had 2010 prices from $895,000 and levies from $900 a quarter.
The eight three-bedroom penthouses with internal areas of up to 165 square metres had prices in late 2010 from $1.2 million to $1.695 million and levies from $900 a quarter.
 
 
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Crown Group to begin construction on Viking apartments at Green Square, Waterloo

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Given the spread of ROI (registration of interest) marketing campaigns, I think it is important to look at the key setting in greater detail. First up, before starting any ROI campaign it is important to have clear goals and expectations to make sure the idea fits the market circumstances.
The key expectations that need to be agreed would always include clear targeting – otherwise the process will lack focus – such as:
<ul>
<li>Launch day sales target by number, percentage and total value</li>
<li>Number of paid expressions of interest (EOI) to convert to sales</li>
<li>Number of required ROI enquiries to convert to EOI requirement</li>
<li>Number of individuals contacted about the project through all the various mediums to reach the ROI target</li>
<li>The marketing mediums identified and what volumes of enquiries they will bring</li>
</ul>
This is not a process of testing the waters, because once you enter the market there needs to be clear intentions to engage the market in a defined sales path.
They key aim will be to build a quality database. This outcome will and can not only rely upon the raw volume of respondents. In today’s market there could well be a hurdle, as securing a strong response is never certain. Quality registrations will only result if the entire process is well managed every step of the way – if a medium is bringing in low-quality leads changes to the marketing message, sales conversation or marketing spend needs to happen and quickly, to ensure the project stays on track to its required numbers.
Access raw numbers with care
Care must be taken in the collection and use of data; simply collecting a great deal of useless information is a waste of time and could well backfire by creating foolish expectations. It is easy for anyone to fill in an email form and these forms can look good on paper but unless there is a qualifying process behind them they may be of little even negative value to the sales process.
Subsequently as the process moves to the point of commitment a poorly qualified database will soon reveal flaws if few sales are converted, or a poorly supported launch takes place. However, if the ROI campaign targets the desired markets then the campaign will secure solid results.
One result of a successful campaign will be the ability to build prices, where prices can be increased, if the demand in these early stages is solid. This is not to suggest that prices can or should be over-heated as a result of early interest, but this is the ideal time to keep prices under review and in line with buyer demand.
A good result from an ROI campaign will assist to leverage higher sales rates early in the development cycle and this solid demand will underpin prices as the project moves forward.
This will also be a positive when dealing with finance from any perspective given how lenders can be in meeting today’s lending criteria.
Against this background of possible results it is easy to see why ROI campaigns are popular. However despite all of the positives, ROI campaigns are not, as has already been suggested, automatically suitable for all developments and they can and have failed. Why this usually happens is because the raw data collected is not sourced from well-targeted activity, thoroughly checked, qualified and managed throughout the entire campaign leading up to launch – you only get one chance.
The qualifying process is essential; it’s the foundation to the entire campaign. The time and resources to do this always needs to be factored into the ROI campaign through an experienced project sales and marketing team who understand the importance of providing detailed and accurate reporting.
Even where existing databases are used do not take for granted that these lists are current, always ask the question. A quality database is built upon constant quality engagement. Otherwise this data, so important to the ROI process, is suspect.
The buyer’s perspective
This brings us to the buyer’s perspective. In any ROI campaign the client’s outcome and involvement must always be a central consideration, so again we are back looking at the quality of data.
Genuine and qualified targets secured during an ROI campaign will naturally have their own expectations and they will have been driven by varied intentions and motivations.
This is not a lottery process and must be well managed. It’s an essential part of one of my re-occurring themes – that is the quality of the buyer’s experience at every stage sales path.
Above all when any consumer registers they must receive a response, immediately (even if automated although this is not ideal) but always within 24 to 36 hours, and that response needs to be of value adding to the level of information the person may already have about the project. Many campaigns still manage to get this simple step wrong or simply rely upon an automated process and leave it there. That’s not good enough!
Consumers who respond to an ROI campaign do so for a reason, and if that is not respected it can damage the project and the developer’s brand. If a consumer goes to the extent of giving over personal information this must be acted upon.
The collection of personal data is an increasingly sensitive area, and even with the backing of privacy legislation there is a need to respect the process.
All of the data collected must be used as constructively as possible. If the data is well structured it also helps qualify and establish valuable demographic information. As a possible starting point even the most basic market profile can be built up, simply by the accurate collection of postcode details as a minimum.
Because of the structure and nature of the marketing, ROI campaigns are frequently most appealing to apartment buyers. This is due mainly to the frequently longer lead times and in some markets very long lead times of one, two or more years before completion.
With such long-term plans, for the developer there is an obvious benefit in securing early sales and many buyers also see these timeframes as an ideal way to manage their aspirations, finances and their varied and changing needs.
The targeted use of ROI campaigns can, when correctly executed, help lock in the benefits for buyers and developers alike.
Timing is an important element
ROI campaigns will almost always be managed over shorter periods of time from six weeks to possibly several months. However beyond two or three months ROI campaigns are usually not that affective because the reasonable expectation of a benefit to the buyer is always diminished by time.
If the campaign is in the market for a protracted time it reduces the urgency. The implied advantages evaporate and the target market will stop seeing the opportunity to register as being of any value to them.
In some markets potential buyers might not only be time driven, they may be happy to register their details and then wait for the product to be on-sale. However the time scales involved and release of information needs to be carefully managed, otherwise consumers will lose interest in the project.
Even when the buyers are not in a hurry, the life of the campaign must still be for a limited time. The advantage of being early into the project will always remain a key attraction to buyers.
Even if some buyers might have been looking around the market before they register, once the ROI campaign is over those who register must be kept up-dated. If a project is being developed over a long period there must be a strategy to keep in touch with anyone who does register on a very regular basis. But this contact needs balance; not too much contact to be harassing and avoiding long periods of no contact.
Given that the main aim of the ROI campaign is, at least in the short-term, to create a qualified and ‘ready-to- buy’ database. Ideally ahead of any formal release or mainstream marketing those who can should be moved to a level of commitment and where possible move to exchange contracts.
ROI campaigns have become very popular and it is important that this step in the project marketing mix be thoroughly managed. The next part of this post will look in detail at the content and planning of ROI campaigns. This will include how the varied steps can be managed and how different creative solutions can be used from private client or whisper campaigns to an open market approach.
Peter Chittenden is managing director for residential of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.colliers.com.au/Colliers%20Corporate/Residential.aspx">Colliers International</a>
 
 
 
 
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Before starting a registrations-of-interest campaign, outline clear goals: Peter Chittenden

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The property at 99 Windsor Crescent (pictured below), in the Melbourne suburb of Mont Albert, drew a big crowd at its weekend auction, with the vendor securing a strong result.
<img src="/images/stories/windsorcres.jpg">
It was one of the properties featured on website <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertytycoon.com.au/">www.propertytycoon.com.au</a>, where punters can guess auction results in Melbourne and Sydney, with no outlay. It's mostly about testing your market knowledge with a small cash prize as a sweetener.
“In Melbourne a big crowd turned out to watch the auction of 99 Windsor Crescent, Mont Albert, and it was clear from the very beginning that the opening bidder wanted the property,” says Mark Armstrong of Property Tycoon.
“She stuck with the auction from start to finish before securing the property for $1.46 million, more than $100,000 over the average tip.”
But it was a different story for the Sydney property featured on Property Observer, 77 Annandale Street, Annandale (pictured below).
<img src="/images/stories/annandalest.jpg">
The property sold for just above its price quote, says Armstrong.
“The property was purchased in 2007 for $870,000 and has had a major renovation.”
 
 
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