<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/s-p-setia">SP Setia</a> has lodged plans for a $750 million, three-tower mixed-use precinct that would complete the long-running redevelopment of Carlton's former Carlton United Breweries site.

The proposal at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/185-195-queensberry-street-carlton-vic-3053">46-78 Bouverie Street and 185-195 Queensberry Street</a> spans a 6,468 sqm site, the last remaining undeveloped parcels within the former brewery's 2007 masterplan.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">COX Architecture</a>, the development will comprise two purpose-built student accommodation towers and a third build-to-sell apartment tower above a shared commercial podium and basement.

Across the three towers, SP Setia is proposing 606 build-to-sell apartments and 1,499 student accommodation units containing 2,009 beds.

The apartments will sit in the tallest tower, which will rise nearly 200m and 55 storeys. It will become&nbsp;one of the more substantial new build-to-sell apartment projects at the northern edge of Melbourne's CBD.

The apartment mix is weighted toward smaller inner-city product, with 188 studios, 206 one-bedroom apartments, 192 two-bedroom apartments and 20 three-bedroom apartments

<img alt="First look: SP Setia plans three-tower finale for Carlton’s former CUB precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8271bc87-1b0a-41b7-ac73-a425ee375261" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/3_2.png?VersionId=G4lw23o90B1boX4k4dj7rdz2ZEajS9wy" />

Part of the precinct will be a large-scale&nbsp;3,684 sqm supermarket and a further 2,198 sqm of speciality retail, creating close to 5,900 sqm of new commercial space within the precinct.

But one of the biggest components of the proposal is what sits between the buildings.

Around 4,650 sqm, or roughly 72 per cent of the site, will be publicly accessible open space, incorporating plazas, pedestrian connections, landscaped laneways and retail spill-out areas.

The ground plane is intended to finally complete pedestrian connections envisaged when the CUB masterplan was first approved nearly two decades ago, stitching together Victoria Street, Queensberry Street, Bouverie Street and Swanston Street through the former brewery precinct.

Urbis said the development would "complete the CUB precinct", with the public realm providing important north-south and east-west connections through what is currently the final undeveloped portion of the masterplanned site.

SP Setia is also exploring a new linear park within the Bouverie Street road reserve, with the concept to be developed further with the City of Melbourne through the planning process.

The proposal is being pursued through the Victorian Government's Development Facilitation Program under Clause 53.23 for significant residential development with affordable housing.

The planning report acknowledges the proposed heights exceed those contemplated under the original Comprehensive Development Plan and masterplan, but argues the built-form context has changed considerably over the past two decades.

Urbis said the three towers would instead create a stepped transition between Carlton and the Hoddle Grid, rising progressively from the 94.1-metre Tower One along the Queensberry Street edge to the 199.44-metre Tower Three closer to the established CBD-scale buildings to the south.

<img alt="SP Setia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e885a07a-592c-40fc-bf82-e6dbaf32da54" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-21%20at%208.52.24%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=7s_ErUkSKAdY1mAWp3GRZgMNCGtwhk5m" />

SP Setia plans to deliver the development across three stages.

Stage One would deliver the basement, podium and retail areas for the entire precinct alongside the first student tower. Tower Two would follow in Stage Two, before the 606-apartment Tower Three is delivered as the final stage.

If approved and delivered, the project would close out a redevelopment process that has been underway since the former brewery masterplan was approved in 2007, adding more than 2,600 student beds and apartments to a precinct already home to Swanston Central, the Barak Building, RMIT Design Hub and several large student accommodation developments.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Joel Robinson

SP Setia plans three-tower finale for Carlton’s former CUB precinct

Melbourne developer Lowe Living is seeking to add to its growing bayside apartment pipeline, filing plans for a boutique eight-residence development in tightly held Middle Park.

Lowe Living, which has built much of its development portfolio across Melbourne's affluent bayside and south-east suburbs, is behind the plans for the 730 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/123-125-erskine-street-middle-park-vic-3206">123-125 Erskine Street</a>, just off Armstrong Street and within the Armstrong Street Neighbourhood Activity Centre.

The developer is seeking approval for a five-storey residential building above two basement levels, with just eight large-format apartments and 18 car spaces.

“This is a deliberately very different proposition for us,"&nbsp;Tim Lowe, Co-Founder of Lowe Living, said.

"Eight residences is exceptionally boutique, but that's precisely what this site calls for.

“There is a strong community in Middle Park and the surrounding suburbs who have spent decades building a life here. They no longer want the maintenance of a large period home, but they aren't prepared to compromise on space, quality or location. We think there is a real opportunity to capture that hyper local market. A site like this rarely comes to market.”

<img alt="Lowe " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="875fe572-0f14-4d90-9e11-55b28dd07731" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-21%20at%208.42.49%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=GDNQRv9BfpR9r1zkZ5UDyUM4ZvpIksut" />

The low-density proposal has been designed by Cera Stribley and is being progressed through the Victorian Government's Great Design Fast Track pathway, having already secured eligibility from the Minister for Planning.

The Office of the Victorian Government Architect supported its eligibility after finding the proposal demonstrated consistency with the program's seven design principles, while the project's financial feasibility has also been independently confirmed by Invest Victoria.

The project is targeting the downsizer market, with the planning documents describing the homes as larger-format residences and noting the two penthouses could otherwise have been configured as four separate apartments.

<img alt="Lowe 2" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="60ab0987-2da6-4175-adac-315dcf6053c6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-21%20at%208.43.15%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=bOCPH0B2MFwlmaRW.TTCF9TzyifgVoQI" />

The site has dual frontage to Erskine Street and Canterbury Place and currently comprises a collection of commercial buildings used as offices, including a former heritage bakehouse, a former stable, a later gabled addition and a central courtyard.

It sits within the Commercial 1 Zone and the Armstrong Street Commercial Precinct heritage overlay, with the existing property classified as a contributory heritage place.

Heritage has subsequently played a significant role in Cera Stribley's design.

The front section of the former bakehouse facing Erskine Street will be retained, including its return walls, street-facing hipped roof and chimneys, while the Erskine Street façade and part of the western return wall of the former stable will also be incorporated into the new development.

Levels four and five will be set back five metres from the retained stable façade, while bricks removed through demolition are proposed to be salvaged and reused within the new building where possible.

<img alt="Lowe 3" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e97927a9-a2de-4a0f-83b6-65451238abfa" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-21%20at%208.43.06%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=VR44AChLrX9q1XPB9GvVQV.ALXXbe4gC" />

Rather than presenting as a single five-storey building to Erskine Street, Cera Stribley has broken the development into a series of distinct forms.

A three-storey infill element will sit between the retained bakehouse and stable façades, with the upper levels recessed behind the heritage fabric. Canterbury Place will similarly feature two three-storey podium forms, separated by a central pedestrian accessway, before the upper two levels step back from the street.

A pedestrian through-link will run through the centre of the project between Erskine Street and Canterbury Place, creating entrances from both sides of the site and introducing landscaping and communal areas through the ground plane.

Landscape architect Acre has designed planting across the ground level, private terraces and upper levels, including a feature canopy tree at level three and integrated planting and arbours across the level four terraces. Five existing Erskine Street trees are proposed to be retained.

Sustainability is also a significant component of the Great Design Fast Track application. The apartments are targeting an average eight-star NatHERS rating, with no residence below 6.5 stars, while the project has achieved a 75 per cent BESS score. Seven of the eight apartments are designed for cross-ventilation, with the remaining residence using mechanically assisted natural ventilation.

The plans also incorporate an 8kWp rooftop solar system, a 5,000-litre rainwater tank and infrastructure allowing future electric vehicle charging for every residence.

Lowe has a strong portfolio across Melbourne's blue-chip suburbs. They recently launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/jardin-house-by-lowe-living-camberwell-335-camberwell-road-camberwell-vic-3124">Jardin House by Lowe Living</a> in Camberwell, their first development in the Stonnington LGA.

Lowe Living unveils Middle Park apartment development

Article summary

<ul data-end="888" data-start="289">
	<li data-end="442" data-section-id="8tsh6o" data-start="289">DVB Projects is preparing to launch its second Gold Coast apartment development, with demolition now underway at 137 Old Burleigh Road, Broadbeach.</li>
	<li data-end="573" data-section-id="1nyxl3e" data-start="443">The 34-level tower will comprise just 49 ultra-luxury residences, including half-floor, full-floor and penthouse apartments.</li>
	<li data-end="717" data-section-id="oiyimj" data-start="574">The launch follows strong demand at DVB's nearby Sea Glass project, which is more than 50 per cent sold and currently under construction.</li>
	<li data-end="888" data-section-id="epk9o9" data-start="718">The development adds to the transformation of Old Burleigh Road, with premium beachfront apartment projects continuing to reshape the tightly held Broadbeach strip.</li>
</ul>

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/dvb-projects">DVB Projects</a> is preparing to launch its second Gold Coast apartment development, with demolition now underway on the Broadbeach site as the Sydney developer moves closer to bringing the ultra-luxury project to market.

The 34-level tower at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/137-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach-qld-4218">137 Old Burleigh Road</a> will comprise just 49 residences, ranging from half-floor apartments through to full-floor homes and a penthouse. The launch follows the strong sales performance of DVB's nearby Sea Glass development. More than half of the apartments at Sea Glass, on the other side of Broadbeach, have been snapped up, well ahead of its late 2027 completion

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2944b4be-c84e-4b54-8dc1-c712e76704c0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/E02_Exterior_Street%20Level%20Entrance.jpg?VersionId=YoNig7pRdrE3HCue7sUj78LzJteeQf3H" />

The start of demolition at 137 Old Burleigh Road signals DVB Projects’ underlying confidence in the Gold Coast’s luxury beachside apartment sector.

“We see the Gold Coast as one of the most compelling lifestyle markets in Australia, particularly at the premium end where demand continues to deepen,” said Dean Brown, Managing Director of DVB.&nbsp;

“This project has been carefully designed to respond to that demand - delivering large-format residences with a level of quality, privacy and amenity that is still relatively rare in the apartment market on the beachside."

Brown says the site itself is "exceptional."

"Old Burleigh Road is one of the most tightly held beachfront strips, and opportunities to deliver a project of this scale and calibre in this location are extremely limited.”

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="398f377a-c037-455e-9250-0c5e0d84c35b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/I12_FF%20Balcony.jpg?VersionId=NwOiRWGMubR1c8wthuEfggklcja7al9." />

The project will comprise 40 half-floor residences of approximately 260 sqm, alongside eight full-floor residences spanning around 524 sqm.

A single penthouse will crown the building, featuring a private pool, barbecue area, indoor gym and dedicated entertaining spaces.

Residents will have access to a resort-style suite of amenities, including a 20-metre pool with daybeds, a gymnasium, hot and cold plunge pools, a sauna, and private residents’ lounge and dining facilities.

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d1642bb0-9a66-4427-a022-dfc0988c6287" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/A02_Pool%20to%20View.jpg?VersionId=c0IXPyn_Gp_Kn3XCwzMrqIVkAdCEwVXP" />

Sales agent Todd Matheson, of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/pezet-matheson">Pezet Matheson</a>, which is marketing both 137 Old Burleigh Road and Sea Glass, said 137 Old Burleigh Road would address a clear gap in the market for genuine luxury products.

“There are very few opportunities on the Gold Coast where buyers can secure a residence of this size and quality in a new building,” Matheson said.

“What we’re seeing is a growing cohort of downsizers and interstate buyers who still want space - they’re not willing to compromise on living area, entertaining or finishes.

“This project has been designed with that buyer in mind. It offers the scale of a home, combined with the convenience and security of apartment living, in one of the coast’s most desirable positions.”

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="59aae0ca-5639-4320-8aca-d0bf60f48e43" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/E01_Exterior%20Hero.jpg?VersionId=DS8Zfy2WtgUEtdfe0TEUuf1W1GfcZq8S" />

Located on a 1,156 sqm site one block from the beachfront, the development will replace an ageing walk-up building and is expected to contribute to the ongoing transformation of the Old Burleigh Road strip into one of the Gold Coast’s most prestigious residential corridors.

With the development moving into the delivery phase, 137 Old Burleigh Road is slated to hit the market later this year.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=145141]

DVB Projects to launch second Broadbeach apartment tower as demolition commences

<a data-end="327" data-is-only-node="" data-start="250" href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/norus-projects" rel="noopener" target="_new">Norus Developments</a> has lodged plans for a new apartment development in Clayton that would add further momentum to the suburb's emerging Green Street corridor.

Plans have been lodged for the consolidated site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/1359-1365-centre-road-clayton-vic-3168">1359-1365 Centre Road</a>, where Norus is seeking approval for 218 apartments across a 12-storey apartment building designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/life-architecture-and-urban-design">Life Architecture</a>.

The proposal sits within the Clayton Major Activity Centre at the threshold of the planned Green Street corridor, a landscaped pedestrian connection intended to improve links through the precinct towards Clayton Railway Station.

The development would replace the site's existing collection of low-scale residential and commercial buildings with a single consolidated building, introducing significantly greater housing density to this part of Centre Road.

A retail tenancy is proposed at ground level to activate the Centre Road frontage, accompanied by transparent street interfaces and landscaping intended to create a more pedestrian-focused edge to the development.

<img alt="First look: Norus Developments plans landscape-led apartment project for Clayton’s emerging Green Street" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0a5a763a-d9e9-4253-af2f-88008de27ebf" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Clayton%20a.png?VersionId=S2WJJbat1XVkZwB9SnYtygirXgWHiklX" />

The building has been designed with stepped massing and upper-level setbacks to manage its transition towards surrounding residential properties. The planning report describes the approach as one that integrates the building into the landscape rather than treating landscaping as a secondary element.

"A strong landscape and public realm strategy underpins the proposal," Urbis states in the planning report.

"Public benefits include an affordable housing contribution, a new pocket park, generous landscaped setbacks, deep soil planting and integrated Water Sensitive Urban Design."

The report adds that these elements are intended to create "a permeable, pedestrian-focused ground plane that enhances walkability, supports urban cooling and reinforces the emerging Green Street character."

Biophilic and passive design principles extend through the residential levels, with planting, daylight, natural ventilation and views towards landscaped areas forming part of the amenity strategy.

Parking would be concentrated away from the public realm, with 145 car spaces proposed from the rear laneway rather than dominating the Centre Road frontage.

The proposal follows an extensive pre-application process with the City of Monash. Three formal meetings were held between the project team and Council from December 2025 to March 2026, with the scheme evolving through several concept iterations before the current design was lodged.

The project arrives as Clayton prepares for substantial change around its established activity centre and the wider Suburban Rail Loop precinct. Its position on Centre Road places the development within an existing concentration of shops, services and public transport, while the Green Street connection is intended to strengthen pedestrian access towards Clayton Railway Station.

First look: Norus plans landscape-led apartment project for Clayton’s emerging Green Street

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gardner-vaughan-group">Gardner Vaughan Group</a> has officially commenced construction on Bronze on Chevron, celebrating the sod turning of its first-ever Gold Coast development and marking a significant milestone in the company's continued expansion across South East Queensland.&nbsp;

Following the successful delivery of premium residential developments throughout Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/bronze-on-chevron-8-mawarra-street-chevron-island-qld-4217">Bronze on Chevron</a> represents Gardner Vaughan Group's entry into the Gold Coast market. Bronze will deliver 119 one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments above two ground-level retail tenancies.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107520 project_image_fid=367193]

The recent sod turning ceremony was attended by Deputy Mayor Mark Hammel, President of the Surfers Paradise Surf Life Saving Club, Cassandra Sedgman, project consultants, purchasers, project partners and invited guests to celebrate the commencement of construction.&nbsp;

Gardner Vaughan Group Chief Executive Officer Simon Betteridge said Bronze on Chevron represented an exciting new chapter for the business.&nbsp;

"We've spent almost four decades building homes that respond to the way people want to live, and we're excited to bring that experience to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/chevron-island-qld-4217">Chevron Island</a>," Betteridge said.

"Bronze on Chevron is particularly significant because it marks Gardner Vaughan Group's first development on the Gold Coast following many successful projects across Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107520 project_image_fid=367183]

Betteridge said the ground breaking is a proud moment for the&nbsp;team and their purchasers, who can now see their future homes beginning to take shape.&nbsp;

"As both developer and builder, we're able to oversee every aspect of the project from design through to construction, ensuring the quality and attention to detail Gardner Vaughan Group has become renowned for."&nbsp;

Designed by acclaimed architectural practice <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cottee-parker-architects">Cottee Parker</a>, Bronze on Chevron has been thoughtfully designed to complement Chevron Island's evolving streetscape while embracing its relaxed coastal lifestyle.

The development will offer generous residences with refined interiors, premium finishes and resort-style amenities, with completion anticipated in early 2029.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=107520]

The development will offer generous residences with refined interiors, premium finishes and resort-style amenities, with completion anticipated in early 2029

Gardner Vaughan Group breaks ground on first Gold Coast development, Bronze on Chevron

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

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

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

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

Every First Home Owner Grant for new property by state

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

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

Staff Writer

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

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

alisonwarters@gmail.com

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

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

Ellen Walker

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

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

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

<html><body>Australian Property Monitors (APM) has released a list of results from 646 auctions in Sydney for the weekend of March 31. The clearance rate was 53.8%. <a href="https://www.homepriceguide.com.au/saturday_auction_results/Sydney.pdf" target="_blank"> 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 646 Sydney auction results showing a clearance rate of 53.8%

<html><body>
Despite the big jump in pre-Easter auction listings, Melbourne’s estate agents secured a commendable 60% Saturday auction success rate, which was revised up to 61% after Sunday's results. But Sydney’s result was weaker with a 53.8% clearance rate.
Melbourne's result was consistent with the year to date, but Sydney's was significantly down on the previous week, the weakest for four weekends.
It was the first super Saturday auction weekend in both Sydney and Melbourne since late 2010, with more than 1,000 auctions scheduled for Melbourne and more than 700 in Sydney.
Not all the results are in, and it was perhaps not the truest reflection of under the hammer sentiment as many agents tried hard to avoid the pre-school holiday bottleneck by securing pre-auction sales. The McGrath agency reported 44 pre-sales among its 76 sales from 151 offerings across NSW.
The Melbourne result was up on the 59% of the prior weekend but slightly lower than the year to date clearance rate of 62% for Melbourne.
The last five Melbourne weekends have returned clearance rates in a very tight band between 58% and 61%, which indicates very consistent demand despite the fluctuations on volume.
Despite the higher Melbourne success rate rate, anedotal auctions reports suggested bidding numbers were more subdued in Melbourne than the turnouts at successful Sydney auctions.
The highest known sale in Sydney <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/new-south-wales/after-five-years-super-saturday-s-%244.95-million-sale-represents-a-half-price-haircut/2012040154109" target="_blank">was a $4.95 million sale at Burraneer</a> and in Melbourne it was a Grandview Grove Prahran house for $4.57 million. Prahran had the highest number of auctions scheduled for the weekend with 13 out of the 17 reported results sold reflecting a 76% clearance rate. Melbourne buyers' agent Mal James noted there had been a 79% success rate at the 34 auctions with $1 million-plus his buyers agency attended.
"It was a sizzling result and supports the market improvement most have been claiming in 2012," James says. But the average bidder number was two per auction, James notes.
Ian Carmichael, the Bennison Mackinnon Melbourne eastern suburbs auctioneers notesdespite a few strong results among some average outcomes, buyers were still very prepared to walk away.
“In light of the high volume of homes on offer this is a good result and shows that the market is performing consistently,” Enzo Raimondo, chief executive of the Real Estate Institute of Victoria, says.
The 61% clearance rate came from the 929 auctions reported to the REIV of the expected 1,040 auctions, with more auctions results yet to come which will see a revised tally early this week.
The same weekend last year resulted in a clearance rate of 60% from 808 auctions.
With the Easter holidays next weekend only 50 auctions are scheduled for Melbourne.
The 53.8% Sydney result recorded from 626 of the expected 737 results by Australian Property Monitors was down on the prior weekend's 59% success tally.
Sydney’s various markets performed diversely. Of the 110 reported inner-west auctions, there was a 76.4% success rate. The clearance rate on the lower north shore was 61.3% and 56.3% in the city and east. Other regions were weaker.
 In Sydney by 9.30am First National auctioneer Michael McCaffery had sold his 19 Driver Street Denistone West auction property.
“Strong bidding and for above reserve at $776,000 was a great start to the day,” he says.
There were strong registrations at many auctions including a Ray White Five Dock property that fetched $1 million. There were 31 bids from the 11 registered according to Cooley auctioneer Nick Cleary.
At the Ray White auction of Wells Street Annandale for $790,000 the selling agent Charles Bailey had nine registered buyers.
Cooley auctioneer Chris Mourd sold his 21 Trafalgar Parade Concord offering for $1.1 million well above its $950,000 reserve with five registered bidders at the LJ Hooker auction.
The overall Cooley Auctions clearance rate was 57% selling 46 of its 81 auctions.
There were four registrations for 5 Carnarvon Avenue Glenhaven, which fetched $2.16 million through Century 21 West Pennant Hills.
The Ray White offering at 36a Franklin Road Chipping Norton sold for $15,000 above reserve, which the office is claiming as a record price.
The Ray White Drummoyne office sold four of its five listings under the hammer.
Sales included a mortgagee auction when auctioneer Bram Page sold 117/2 Bond Street, Sydney for $412,000. There were eight registered bidders who saw the property move beyond its $400,000 reserve through Sydney Cove Property. The flat last traded at $345,000 in 2008. It was sold on the weekend amid spirited bidding to Allan Dabbagh, owner of Coldwell Banker Real Estate at Wattle Grove and Cumberland-Courier NSW Community's father of the year.
But there were passed ins including a five bedroom beachfront house at Barrack Point, near Shellharbour, that was passed in at $1.7 million by Ray White auctioneer Ben Mitchell.
The propertytycoon.com.au website noted just the two bidders contesting 50 O'Grady Street Clifton Hill with it selling under the hammer for $780,000.
Nelson Alexander agent Roland Paterson had been quoting between $690,000 to $750,000.
A 5/57 Spenser Road St Kilda unit sold for $500,000 as three bidders got involved.
In Melbourne the offering at 4/43 Clowes St South Yarra was passed in at $800,000 but sold shortly after for $820,000.
Andrew James of Hocking Stuart Armidale says his office sold six of seven auctions.
Grant Lynch at Allens Real Estate reported a clean sweep of the office’s three auctions in the outer eastern suburbs.
The Philip Webb agency in the eastern suburbs recorded sales in seven of its 10 auctions.
The Jas H Stephens agency team sold seven of its 10 auctions.
Based on the Saturday 6pm results, there are 133 unreported or unheld Sunday auctions in Melbourne, along with 111 unreported Sydney results.
 
Melbourne's super Saturday auction weekends since 2003
 
<table border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="275"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="90">
Date
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="104">
Auctions
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="81">
Clearance rate
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="90">
12-Dec-10
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="104">
1,235
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="81">
57.0%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="90">
5-Dec-10
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="104">
1,071
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="81">
60.0%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="90">
28-Nov-10
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="104">
1,101
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="81">
59.0%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="90">
21-Nov-10
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="104">
1,013
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="81">
57.0%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="90">
24-Oct-10
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="104">
1,127
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="81">
67.0%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="90">
20-Jun-10
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="104">
1,050
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="81">
68.0%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="90">
28-Mar-10
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="104">
1,073
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="81">
85.0%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="90">
12-Dec-09
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="104">
1,065
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="81">
81.0%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="90">
28-Nov-09
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="104">
1,050
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="81">
78.0%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="90">
19-Apr-08
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="104">
1,105
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="81">
64.0%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="90">
15-Mar-08
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="104">
1,351
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="81">
67.0%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="90">
1-Mar-08
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="104">
1,014
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="81">
71.0%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="90">
23-Feb-08
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="104">
1,146
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="81">
74.0%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="90">
15-Dec-07
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="104">
1,171
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="81">
78.0%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="90">
8-Dec-07
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="104">
1,201
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="81">
79.0%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="90">
17-Nov-07
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="104">
1,197
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="81">
81.0%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="90">
27-Oct-07
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="104">
1,211
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="81">
83.0%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="90">
13-Dec-03
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="104">
1,046
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="81">
44.8%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="90">
6-Dec-03
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="104">
1,101
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="81">
52.0%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="90">
29-Nov-03
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="104">
1,241
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="81">
47.0%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="90">
25-Oct-03
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="104">
1,115
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="81">
66.5%
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
 
Source: REIV
Sydney's super Saturday auction weekends since 2009
<table border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="247"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="92">
Date
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="155">
Number of properties listed for auction
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="92">
26-Sep-09
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="155">
678
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="92">
27-Mar-10
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="155">
752
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="92">
29-May-10
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="155">
630
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="92">
25-Sep-10
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="155">
666
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="92">
30-Oct-10
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="155">
651
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="92">
6-Nov-10
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="155">
625
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="92">
20-Nov-10
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="155">
648
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="92">
27-Nov-10
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="155">
779
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="92">
4-Dec-10
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="155">
680
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="92">
11-Dec-10
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="155">
627
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="92">
26-Feb-11
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="155">
625
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="92">
16-Apr-11
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="155">
646
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="92">
29-Oct-11
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="155">
619
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="92">
26-Nov-11
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="155">
662
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="92">
10-Dec-11
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="155">
654
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="92">
31-Mar-12
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="155">
702
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
Source: APM
</body></html>

jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Melbourne passes Super Saturday auction acid test while Sydney results were so-so

<html><body>
The inner suburbs of Melbourne and Sydney will ring out with auctioneers’ cries this weekend in what will be the first super Saturday auctions weekend in both cities for 2012. 
The REIV calculates there will be about 1,000 auctions in Melbourne over the weekend, the first 1,000-plus auctions weekend since the December 12, 2010 weekend, when there were 1,235 auctions held with a clearance rate of 57%. 
There have only been 21 weekends of more than 1,000 auctions since October 2003, according to REIV records, with the biggest being the March 15, 2008 weekend, when there were 1,351 auctions and a clearance rate of 67%. 
REIV spokesperson Robert Larocca says this weekend will provide buyers with “the greatest choice on a single weekend since the middle of December 2010”. 
“The highest number of auctions this weekend is in Prahran with 21, followed by 17 in Brighton, Camberwell, Essendon, Kew and Northcote. 
“On the eve of this weekend the year to date clearance rate is 62%. The last five weekends have returned clearance rates between 58% and 61%, which indicates very consistent demand despite the fluctuations on volume,” he says. 
This weekend last year there were 808 Melbourne auctions, with a clearance rate of 60%. 
Last weekend 778 auctions were held with a clearance rate of 59%. 
There are 702 auctions scheduled in Sydney during the weekend, the highest number since the November 27, 2010 weekend (779 auctions) and 23% more than the 431 auctions recorded last weekend, according to Australian Property Monitors (APM). 
According to APM, Sydney has recorded 15 weekends with more than 600 auctions scheduled dating back to September 2009. 
“It is a super Saturday. It’s the biggest since late 2010,” says APM research analyst Clinton McNabb. 
“It is up 8.7% on the equivalent weekend last year (that is the one prior to the Easter weekend).  This was the April 16, 2011 weekend, with 646 auctions,” he says.
In Sydney the busiest suburbs will be Strathfield in the inner west and Coogee in the eastern beaches, which each have 11 auctions scheduled, followed by Maroubra and Paddington with 10 each. 
Auction activity will come to a virtual standstill over the April 7 Easter weekend, with just 40 auctions scheduled in Melbourne and 23 scheduled in Sydney.
 
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lschlesinger-FZcF9M3vE6

Melbourne and Sydney inner-city suburbs the focus of super Saturday auctions weekend

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2111/250 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, VIC, 3000
<img src="/images/stories/elizstreet.jpg" style="border-style: initial; border-color: initial; max-width: 480px;"> 
The tenant of this one-bedroom Melbourne CBD apartment is paying rent of $425 per week and is on a lease until January 2013, but agent Nathan Gibson of Harcourts says comparable apartments in the building are leased for $465 per week. 
Gibson <a target="_blank" href="https://www.harcourts.com.au/">is marketing the property </a>with price hopes in the mid-$300,000 range, and if it sells for $370,000 that would secure an investor a gross rental yield of 5.6%, under the indicative gross rental yield for Melbourne units of 6.2%, according to RP Data. A rental of $465 per week would equate to a gross rental yield of 6.5%. The gross rental yield does not consider the costs of maintaining the property, including council rates and other fees such as water bills and managing agent fees.
<a href="https://calc.washingtonbrown.com.au/wbdcalculator/calculator.aspx?RID=HPCAZOPTTT" target="_blank">Washington Brown</a> estimates the first-year tax depreciation deduction to be $10,000 and over five years to be $36,000.
The median unit price in Melbourne fell by 7.5% in the past year, according to RP Data.
The property will go to auction on Saturday, March 31 at 2pm.
For more about prices and yields in Melbourne, 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">
1 Kennedy Drive, Tweed Heads, NSW, 2485
<img src="/images/stories/kennedydr.jpg" style="border-style: initial; border-color: initial; max-width: 480px;"> 
This three-bedroom Tweed Heads house has a development application in place for two duplexes, or an investor could retain the long-term tenant, who is paying $260 per week. Agent Jess Hutson says although the tenant is on an expired lease, that is market rent for the area.
Hutson <a href="https://www.rainbowbayrealty.com.au/sales/properties.php?id=5433912&amp;test=1" target="_blank">is marketing the property</a> with price hopes of $299,000 plus, and if it sells for that price it would secure an investor a gross rental yield of 4.5%, significantly above the indicative gross rental yield for Tweed Heads houses of 3.9%, according to RP Data. The gross rental yield does not consider the costs of maintaining the property, including council rates and other fees such as water bills and managing agent fees.
<a 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 $8,000.
The median house price in Tweed Heads had no change in the past year, according to RP Data.
The property will go to auction on Saturday, March 31 at 1pm.
For more about prices and yields in Tweed Heads, see the RP Data suburb page.
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cknowlton-QnEa6ntUYP

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

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Sydney is the 18th most expensive place in the world to buy a luxury home, according to the 2012 Knight Frank and Citi Private Bank’s sixth Wealth Report.
Australia’s biggest city shot up the global rankings from 34th last year despite the report noting that “prime Australian prices have also slipped as affordability becomes an increasing constraint”. 
Sydney also ranks as the 19th fastest-growing city in terms of global importance, though it not among the current 20 most globally important cities, headed by London, New York and Hong Kong, according to the Wealth Report, which surveyed more than 4,000 individuals worth on average more than US$100 million each. 
Sydney also ranked among the top locations for retail property investors, with prime global retail yields edging close to 7%, just below top-ranking Shanghai. 
According to the sixth Wealth Report, a square metre of prime Sydney residential property costs US$22,400, ranking it just below 17th-placed Manhattan at $23,300 per square metre. 
Sydney is more expensive than St Petersburg ($20,200 per square metre) and nearly twice as expensive as Venice ($11,700 per square metre). 
The list is headed by the city state of Monaco, the traditional playground of the ultra-wealthy, where one square metre of residential property costs $58,300.
Click to enlarge
<a href="/images/stories/wealth.gif" rel="shadowbox" title="Click to enlarge"><img src="/images/stories/wealththumb.gif"></a>
“Investors seeking a more conservative strategy have gravitated toward high-quality properties in central business districts in cities such as Beijing, London, Munich, New York, Paris and Sydney,” says Luigi Pigorini, CEO Citi Private Bank Europe, Middle East &amp; Africa. 
“Conversely, for those willing to accept more risk, high-growth markets, such as Asia and Latin America, may be able to generate more attractive returns relative to the US and Europe.
“Investors must remain cautious as global economic growth will continue to influence all property markets, and investors should measure their yield and return expectations taking growth into account,” Pigorini says.
Australia ranked as the seventh richest country in the world on a GPD per capita basis (total GDP divided by population).
Stephen Ellis, executive chairman of Knight Frank Australia, says if China continues to grow and commodity demand remains, there will continue to be a strong growth story for property in Australia.
“We are upbeat on prospects for cities like Perth and Brisbane that have strong links to the mineral and resources industries.
“The stable economy, relatively low debt and attractive yields have attracted many offshore investors to Australia,” he says.
The report notes that offshore investors that poured funds into Australia in 2011 included Memocorp, the Australian arm of Singapore billionaire Tay Tee Peng, who paid $395m for 259 George Street in Sydney, and South African investor Nathan Kirsh, who bought 4 and 14 Martin Place for $153 million.
Chinese, Russian, Middle Eastern, Latin American and those from other growth economies are expected to become most important as prime property buyers over the next five years.
The report found a global swing away from property among centa-millionaires to less risky assets like bonds, gold and cash. 
But it expect further growth in interest in commercial property from high-net-worth individuals, forecasting US$74.1 billion of private transactions globally in 2012 (a 5% year-on-year increase).
The report says there are now 63,000 people worldwide with $100 million or more in assets.
There are now 18,000 centa-millionaires in the region covering south-east Asia, China and Japan. 
This is more than North America, which has 17,000, and Western Europe, with 14,000. 
By 2016, south-east Asia, China and Japan are forecast to extend their lead, with 26,000 centa-millionaires, compared with 21,000 in North America and 15,000 in Western Europe. 
On a country-by-country basis, the US will still dominate in 2016, with 17,100 centa-millionaires, but China will be catching up fast with numbers set to double from current levels to 14,000.
“This year’s Wealth Report contains even more evidence that the world’s wealthy are weathering the economic slowdown better than the wider population, and nowhere is this better reflected than in prime property markets,” says Andrew Shirley, editor of The Wealth Report.
Those markets considered “safe-haven” locations continue to attract private investors looking for both prime residential and commercial property. Political and economic uncertainty across the world is only helping to exacerbate the trend.
“But it is not just property where HNWIs from fast-growing economies are making their mark. The Wealth Report’s Attitudes Survey reveals that they are playing an increasingly important role in the worlds of sport, fine art, wine, and philanthropy.”
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Sydney 18th most expensive housing market in the world, just below Manhattan: Knight Frank Wealth Report

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Meriton boss Harry Triguboff has paid $25 million for a Macquarie Park development site in North Ryde, with plans for a $200 million apartment development.
The site at 88 Talavera Road, across the road from the Macquarie Shopping Centre and close to Macquarie University, was acquired from property developer St Hilliers.
St Hilliers had acquired it in 2007 for $23.5 million and had received development application approval for three A-grade, six-storey office towers covering 32,000 square metres costing $140 million as well as 4,000 square metres of open space.
St Hilliers decided to sell the site after a tenant for 85% of the proposed office development fell through.
It was valued at more than $30 million before the GFC.
Meriton plans to build 330 apartments across four towers, of which one will be a serviced apartment tower.
Triguboff faced competition from Lang Walker and Singapore’s Stamford Group to acquire the site, according to The Australian.
“I have been building in Ryde for 35 years. I have spent more time in Ryde than anywhere else,” said Triguboff following the acquisition.
Triguboff said the good thing about this site was that he could sell the residential apartments and keep the serviced apartments.
This purchase comes soon after his acquisition of a Chatswood development site, his first in the suburb in a decade, from Welles Thomas, a private property management and real estate company based in Chatswood
Triguboff paid $55 million to acquire the 4,323-square-metre site, situated between Thomas Street and Albert Street just off the Pacific Highway.
The site, currently the Thomas Street car park, last sold for $27.5 million in 2007.
It has been acquired from a private Australian company headed by Chinese owners, with the sale negotiated by Andrew Antonas of Matrix Property Group.
Antonas says the car park had been previously owned by Willoughby Council.
The site received DA approval in September 2010 for one 29-storey residential tower and one 21-storey commercial building.
Antonas says Meriton plans to build two 29-storey towers, one featuring around 200 apartments and the other featuring 225 five-star serviced apartments, meaning some work will need to be done “rejigging” the application.
Off-the-plan marketing of the Chatswood project is expected to commence mid-year.
The site, which has DA approval, will be used to build two 29-level towers involving more than 425 apartments, Meriton’s national sales manager says.
Meriton’s target market will range from investors seeking higher yields to owner- occupiers.
Meriton’s recent buy comes nearly a decade after its last project at Chatswood – Leura – a 125- apartment block located at the corner of Brown Street and the Pacific Highway, was completed in 2003.
The new developments will join Meriton’s <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/developments/harry-triguboff-s-meriton-group-to-build-700-serviced-apartments-next-year-across-australia/2011120752737" target="_blank">portfolio of projects on Sydney’s north shore</a>, including the 300-luxury apartment Alcove development at St Ives.
 
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Harry Triguboff buys St Hilliers North Ryde site with plans to build 330 apartments

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Surrounded by misty green mountains and quaint Victorian-era shopping streets, the west coast Tasmanian town of Queenstown is the cheapest locality on a list of 601 hotspots named by Smart Investor magazine.
The hotspot list is based on those suburbs where dwelling prices appreciated the greatest over the 12 months to December 2011.
Houses in the Tassie town can be snapped up for less than a 20% deposit on a house in any of the mainland capital cities.
Queenstown has a median house price of just $89,500, making it the least expensive of all 601 localities featured on the Smart Investor “Top Suburbs” list.
The median house price in the former turn-of-the-20th-century mining town is nearly $40,000 cheaper than the next cheapest place on the list, remote Broken Hill, which has a median house of $127,500.
Investors can expect more than 4% capital appreciation in 2012 and a gross rental yield of 8.2%, the highest income return of the 12 cheapest locations on the list.
Currently up for sale in Queenstown is this 1935 two-bedroom miners’ cottage on Hunter Street (below), listed by Wendy van Balen from Roberts Real Estate West Coast with a $52,000 price tag.
It last sold for just $1,800 in 1992 and is currently rented at $140 per week.
At the asking price and current rent, this would equate to a yield of nearly 14%.
<img src="/images/stories/queens1.jpg" width="470">
On Jankins Street, this three-bedroom wood panel house (below) built in 1957 is up for sale at just below the median Queenstown price at $89,000. Listed by Bradlee Martin from Roberts Real Estate West Coast, it last sold in 2003 for $40,500.
<img src="/images/stories/queens2.jpg" width="470">
Grant Innes from Emu Bay Real Estate is selling this freshly painted three-bedroom house on two titles featuring a large wooden deck for barbecues (below). It is on the market for $85,000 and is currently tenanted at $150 per week, equating to a yield of 9.2%.
<img src="/images/stories/queens4.jpg" width="470">
The house sold for $90,000 in 2008.
Broken Hill is the only NSW town on the list of cheapest investment hotspots, with the remaining 10 localities made up of country locations in Victoria, Tasmania and South Australia.
The 12 cheapest investment hotspots
<table style="width: 470px;" border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="97">
Suburb
</td>
<td valign="top" width="91">
State
</td>
<td valign="top" width="90">
Distance from capital city
</td>
<td valign="top" width="88">
Median price
</td>
<td valign="top" width="88">
Median weekly rent
</td>
<td valign="top" width="81">
12-month price growth forecast 
</td>
<td valign="top" width="81">
Gross rental yield 
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="97">
Queenstown houses
</td>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Tasmania
</td>
<td valign="top" width="90">
260 kms
(Hobart)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="88">
$89,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="88">
$150
</td>
<td valign="top" width="81">
4% plus
</td>
<td valign="top" width="81">
8.2%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="97">
Broken Hill houses
</td>
<td valign="top" width="91">
NSW
</td>
<td valign="top" width="90">
511 kms (Adelaide)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="88">
$127,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="88">
$200
</td>
<td valign="top" width="81">
4%
</td>
<td valign="top" width="81">
7.5%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="97">
Mt Gambier units
</td>
<td valign="top" width="91">
SA
</td>
<td valign="top" width="90">
435 kms
(Adelaide)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="88">
$149,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="88">
$178
</td>
<td valign="top" width="81">
-1%
</td>
<td valign="top" width="81">
5.2%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="97">
Whyalla Norrie units
</td>
<td valign="top" width="91">
SA
</td>
<td valign="top" width="90">
383 kms
(Adelaide)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="88">
$153,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="88">
$185
</td>
<td valign="top" width="81">
1%
</td>
<td valign="top" width="81">
5.3%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="97">
Moe houses
</td>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Victoria
</td>
<td valign="top" width="90">
135 kms
(Melbourne)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="88">
$160,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="88">
$190
</td>
<td valign="top" width="81">
1%
</td>
<td valign="top" width="81">
6.7%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="97">
Ravenswood
</td>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Tasmania
</td>
<td valign="top" width="90">
204 kms
(Hobart)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="88">
$163,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="88">
$200
</td>
<td valign="top" width="81">
4%
</td>
<td valign="top" width="81">
6.4%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="97">
Morwell houses
</td>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Victoria
</td>
<td valign="top" width="90">
150kms
(Melbourne)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="88">
$165,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="88">
$180
</td>
<td valign="top" width="81">
2%
</td>
<td valign="top" width="81">
6.8%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="97">
Red Cliffs houses
</td>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Victoria
</td>
<td valign="top" width="90">
527 kms
(Melbourne)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="88">
$173,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="88">
$180
</td>
<td valign="top" width="81">
4%
</td>
<td valign="top" width="81">
7.9%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="97">
Bridgewater houses
</td>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Tasmania
</td>
<td valign="top" width="90">
178 kms
(Melbourne)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="88">
$177,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="88">
$245
</td>
<td valign="top" width="81">
3%
</td>
<td valign="top" width="81">
7.3%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="97">
Renmark houses
</td>
<td valign="top" width="91">
SA
</td>
<td valign="top" width="90">
251 kms
(Adelaide)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="88">
$180,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="88">
$185
</td>
<td valign="top" width="81">
3%
</td>
<td valign="top" width="81">
5.4%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="97">
George Town houses
</td>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Tasmania
</td>
<td valign="top" width="90">
250 kms
(Hobart)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="88">
$184,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="88">
$200
</td>
<td valign="top" width="81">
2%
</td>
<td valign="top" width="81">
5.2%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="97">
Maryborough houses
</td>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Victoria
</td>
<td valign="top" width="90">
168 kms
(Melbourne)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="88">
$185,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="88">
$230
</td>
<td valign="top" width="81">
4%
</td>
<td valign="top" width="81">
6.5%
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
Source: Smart Investor magazine
 
 
 
 
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Queenstown in Tasmania cheapest of 601 hotspots

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8/447 Sydney Road, Balgowlah, NSW, 2093
<img style="border-style: initial; border-color: initial; max-width: 480px;" src="/images/stories/sydneyrd.jpg"> 
With tenants paying the "fantastic rent" of $550 per week, this two-bedroom apartment in the Sydney northern beaches suburb of Balgowlah could be a good prospect for investors, but it was passed in at its weekend auction. Ray White agent Mark Griffiths says although the tenants of two years are on an expired lease, their rent was reviewed recently and ithe tenants are paying considerably above average rent for the block. The median asking rent for Balgowlah units is $500 per week, according RP Data.
Griffiths <a href="https://www.raywhite.com/nsw/balgowlah/745945/" target="_blank">is marketing the property</a> with price hopes of $479,000 plus after it was passed in on a vendor bid of $460,000 at its weekend auction. Griffiths says he is negotiating with a potential buyer who put in a pre-auction bid of $460,000 as well as another buyer. If it sells for $479,000, that would secure an investor a gross rental yield of 6%, far higher than the indicative gross rental yield of 4.2% for Balgowlah 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 href="https://calc.washingtonbrown.com.au/wbdcalculator/calculator.aspx?RID=HPCAZOPTTT" target="_blank">Washington Brown</a> estimates the first-year tax depreciation deduction to be $8,000 and over five years to be $28,000.
The median unit price for Balgowlah fell by 12.5% in the past year, according to RP Data.
For more about prices and yields in Balgowlah, see the RP Data suburb page.
 
 
 
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Investor form guide wrap: No takers yet for yields of up to 6% in Balgowlah

<html><body>
Pre-sales make-up the core of many project marketing roles, and while the value and number of pre-sales required will vary from project to project, pre-sales as such are clearly an essential platform in the development cycle.
There is little doubt that the GFC and the continued jitters in financial markets <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/finance/borrowing-terms-to-remain-harshest-for-residential-developers-until-global-situation-improves-cba-head-of-credit/2012032553996">have intensified the focus on pre-sales</a> – it’s a reality that is not going to change any time soon.
In an increasing number of cases pre-sales can make or break the future of a proposed development. Consequently because pre-sales are now in most circumstances so closely tied to project financing, the success of a pre-sales campaign is more critical than ever before.
The need to secure early sales and hence finance has caused registration-of-interest (ROI) campaigns to move into a more deliberate part of the sales path, and only when contracts are exchanged will the campaign be seen as a success. It’s no longer good enough for the campaign to generate a database, the results have to be there, and in a staged project the developer will be a need to sustain an ongoing level of pre-sales and convert interest into secure sales.
Campaigns aimed at securing pre-sales can, however, be used in several ways, and how they are planned and managed needs to subtly change to fit varied conditions and markets.
They can be used to create a critical number of essential pre-sales, but there are other ways to use an ROI campaign. They can for example, also be used in a market with very precise targets to act to instil urgency in the minds a particular target audience – thus creating a foundation of pent-up demand.
On the other hand, while also creating a foundation of demand that benefits the developer, those purchasers who do get in early can reap great rewards by avoiding price rises due to the demand created.
In this type of market the use of whisper and off-market campaigns can be used and while still falling within the context of ROI campaigns, these are a highly specialised activity.
Understanding how important pre-sales are the job of creating a suitable ROI plan and then making sure it works to meet the core objectives that is securing contracted sales are the key to this entire topic.
At this early stage in this topic I also feel there is relevance to suggest that ROI campaigns might now being used a little too freely, and by being applied to almost any type and price range of project might not necessarily be a positive, and might have the impact, even if unintentional, of reducing the impact and value of ROI campaigns in the mind of buyers.
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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pchittenden-eLqUUC8TWW

The ways in which to use pre-sales and registrations of interest

<html><body>Australian Property Monitors (APM) has released a list of results from 339 auctions in Sydney for the weekend of March 24. The clearance rate was 60%. <a href="https://www.homepriceguide.com.au/saturday_auction_results/Sydney.pdf" target="_blank"> 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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