Around 400 additional homes could be built at Southwark Grounds on Port Road, lifting total site capacity from 1300 to around 1700 dwellings.

A recently approved code amendment would allow apartment towers of up to 14 storeys in some areas of Renewal SA’s redevelopment of the former West End Brewery.

Renewal SA Acting Chief Executive Shane Wingard said he welcomed the code amendment, with the increase in heights and homes making a positive impact on the supply of high-quality, well-connected housing close to the city.

“By going higher across some parts of Southwark Grounds, we are adding a substantial number of very well-located homes with little impact on project delivery time or planned open space,” Mr Wingard said.

Since the project officially launched in 2025, Mr Wingard said more than 12,000 enquiries had been received about living at Southwark Grounds.

“The very strong early interest we’ve seen since homes were first released in the precinct reinforces our plans to create more housing opportunities,” he said.

The Southwark Grounds code amendment was launched in December last year, with community engagement undertaken over five weeks from January.

It proposed increasing maximum building heights from eight to 14 storeys on the eastern section of Southwark Grounds, and to 12 storeys across the remainder of the site, with minimum building heights ranging from two to four storeys.

The code amendment was implemented through an Early Commencement policy in late January, allowing developers to quickly explore the viability of increased height and housing yield while other planning processes continue.

One of the first developers delivering apartment sites have already finalised redesigns to increase the number of apartments following the code amendment.

Samaras’ development adjacent to the future Colonel Light Park is now planning to deliver 125 apartments across 11 storeys, significantly greater than original plans of around 50 apartments across four storeys.

The developer is also exploring the potential for additional affordable housing outcomes.

Most of the apartments at Southwark Grounds will be delivered within a master-planned precinct on a large parcel of land on the eastern portion of the site, covering around two-thirds of its 8.4 hectares.

Wingard said detailed precinct planning over the coming months may identify further opportunities to increase yield further that could see total apartment numbers at Southwark Grounds, exceed this number.

Affordable homes at Southwark Grounds will also see a net increase, with Renewal SA maintaining its commitment to a minimum of 20 per cent affordable housing across the development.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Civil works have begun across the site, with construction under way on the first new roads surrounding a townhouse precinct in the south‑west corner of Southwark Grounds. This includes Renewal SA’s 17 Founder’s Row homes, which are on track for completion by Christmas.

“We expect to have people living at Southwark Grounds by the end of the year, so delivering roads and public spaces for those residents is among our highest priorities.”

Construction of 40 townhouses off Anderson Street, known as West Village and being delivered by Contour, is forecast to begin in mid‑2026. Kolabb’s Anderson Lane development will follow shortly after, delivering a further 26 townhouses.

Southwark Grounds is a state government‑led urban renewal project now set to deliver around 1,700 homes over the next decade.

Homes will be supported by a supermarket, a range of retail and hospitality offerings anchored by a revitalised Walkerville Brew Tower, a childcare centre, car parking and well‑connected public spaces.

Joel Robinson

400 new homes planned for Adelaide's former West End Brewery site

Brisbane developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/cavcorp">Cavcorp</a> has lodged plans for a new mixed-use residential development at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/55-wyandra-street-teneriffe-qld-4005">55 Wyandra Street</a>, Teneriffe, anchored by an 85-metre public laneway designed to reconnect the suburb’s riverfront with the Gasworks precinct.

The buildings, known as Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane, would replace the existing Queensland Cotton head office site with a 15-storey residential tower transitioning to eight storeys toward Helen Street. The project has been designed by Plazibat Architects and lodged as a code assessable development application for 93 apartments across a 3,401 sqm mixed-use site within the Newstead and Teneriffe Waterfront neighbourhood plan.

Central to the scheme is the transformation of an existing service easement into a publicly accessible cross-block connection linking Wyandra and Helen Streets. Cavcorp says the new laneway will act as both a pedestrian shortcut and a landscaped civic space between the Teneriffe Riverwalk, ferry terminal, and Gasworks precinct.

<img alt="First Look: Cavcorp unveils Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane plans for landmark wellness tower in Teneriffe" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="26e7f058-b065-4de8-b13d-a2b8cb64dfcc" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/bldg.png?VersionId=sELS0ZKYi361oYipUa1BIKfe_.DLZoFV" />

“The revised proposal delivers a legacy public-realm cross-block link, permanently secured for community use, transforming an existing private easement into a safe, high-quality pedestrian connection between the Teneriffe heritage riverwalk and the Gasworks–Long Island precinct,” the planning report states.

The laneway will sit beneath a large subtropical loggia integrated into the podium levels of the development. The design incorporates deep landscaping, water gardens, lobby spaces, business lounges, and ground-floor apartments to create what Cavcorp describes as a climate-responsive “urban verandah.”

The tower itself has been designed as a slender form with recessed floorplates and curved translucent corners inspired by contemporary Japanese architecture. The building height aligns with the Commercial Road precinct controls, which permit towers up to 15 storeys within proximity to Longland Street.

<img alt="First Look: Cavcorp unveils Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane plans for landmark wellness tower in Teneriffe" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a8a17d40-43b6-4718-b3fd-67676fcbb485" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/pers%202_1.png?VersionId=i3VwDtp5AmL_8InW7w4qRbDFEpb744Jt" />

The project will comprise a mix of larger-format apartments aimed at owner-occupiers, downsizers, and families. The proposed apartment mix includes 11 loggia apartments across the lower levels, 50 four-bedroom Sky-Terrace apartments from levels three to seven, and 32 Sky-Pool Homes occupying the upper tower levels. The Sky-Pool Homes will feature private thermal plunge pools integrated into oversized balconies.

According to the application, the apartments are intended to reinterpret the scale and character of Teneriffe’s woolstore conversions and Queensland homes within a vertical residential format.

“The sky-pool homes build on Cavcorp’s previous projects and introduce a distinct apartment typology to Teneriffe, informed by both local and international precedent and responding to an identified market demand for enhanced safety, space and amenity,” the planning submission notes.

A major focus of the proposal is its five-level wellness and lifestyle offering, extending from the basement through to the rooftop.

Amenities proposed include a rooftop Swim &amp; Racquet Club with a 25-metre Olympic lap pool and tennis court, coworking spaces and libraries, golf simulators, wine storage, concierge facilities, business lounges, pet wash areas, and rooftop longevity-focused wellness spaces with spas, outdoor fitness zones, and landscaped terraces.

<img alt="First Look: Cavcorp unveils Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane plans for landmark wellness tower in Teneriffe" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="944b352c-49b9-4247-a4c6-5967b4b69fda" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/amenity.png?VersionId=Ed_qKjAtMwFT.5gfl3jiA9QwdWxSMsaX" />

All parking will be concealed within basement levels accessed from Wyandra and Helen Streets. Cavcorp says the deep-basement engineering approach allows the entire ground plane to prioritise landscaping, pedestrian movement, and active frontage rather than vehicle infrastructure.

The development continues Cavcorp’s concentration in Newstead and Teneriffe, where the Brisbane developer has delivered a number of apartment projects including Lucent, Le Bain, and Luminare, as well as the Long Island Wellness Precinct nearby. Several of those projects have received national design and architecture awards, including recognition under Brisbane’s “Buildings that Breathe” program.

Cavcorp unveils wellness-focused Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane apartment buildings

Focus Group Investments has lodged plans for a new apartment development at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/64-70-hanover-street-fitzroy-vic-3065">64–70 Hanover Street</a> in Fitzroy, seeking to utilise the Victorian Government’s recently introduced Great Design Fast Track pathway to accelerate approvals for the project.

The proposal is among the latest developments to emerge through the state-led initiative, which was established to fast-track well-designed residential projects in activity centres and transport-connected inner-city locations. The pathway allows qualifying developments that meet elevated design and housing benchmarks to bypass traditional council planning timeframes and instead be assessed directly by the Department of Transport and Planning.

Designed by SJB, the development will comprise a mix of apartments above activated lower levels, with a strong focus on architectural articulation, landscaping, and communal amenity. The design response seeks to balance the industrial character of Richmond’s former warehouse precincts with a more contemporary residential form.

<img alt="First look: Focus Group Investments taps Victoria’s Great Design Fast Track for Richmond apartments" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="abea51cc-d85b-479e-9aef-a589f3b37ca7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/ground.png?VersionId=e1Kf8EyPWwyiVumtqQ4rM5S4GpOR3CCz" />

Proposed are 63 new dwellings, a wide ranging mix of studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, and townhouses and duplexes. They will be spread across a part-three, part-eight storey building.

The Planning and Urban Context Report by Tract says the development is of an "exemplary architectural standard" and has been carefully crafted by SJB Architects.

"Dwellings&nbsp;will benefit from excellent access to natural light, cross-ventilation opportunities and extensive communal space," the report noted.

The architectural material highlights the project’s integration of landscaped elements and communal spaces throughout the building. The proposal also incorporates sustainability initiatives aligned with the Victorian Government’s push for higher-performing apartment developments under the fast-track program.

The Great Design Fast Track was unveiled by the Victorian Government in 2024 as part of a broader housing supply strategy aimed at accelerating the delivery of new homes. Projects assessed through the pathway must demonstrate high-quality architecture, sustainability outcomes, and housing diversity while being located close to public transport and existing infrastructure.

<img alt="First look: Focus Group Investments taps Victoria’s Great Design Fast Track for Richmond apartments" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="afdbe834-8dc4-4a77-a943-ba07bc927348" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/site_11.png?VersionId=0J657j.TaChAZfp93wqJYBTqSsnREJx2" />

Focus Group, founder and led by Paul De Lutiis, is increasingly active across Melbourne’s inner suburbs, targeting well-connected urban renewal locations suited to medium and higher-density residential development. The Fitzroy proposal continues that strategy, leveraging the area’s strong transport links, established retail amenity, and proximity to the CBD.

Fitzroy has been one of the most popular spots for developers and buyers in recent years. The likes of PACE Development Group, SMA Projects, Crema Group and Chapter Group, currently selling projects in the suburb.

First look: Focus Group Investments taps Victoria’s Great Design Fast Track for Fitzroy apartments

The Gold Coast Planning Committee has supported the preliminary approval for the Benowa Gardens Urban Village project following an extensive community consultation and assessment process.

The proposal will now proceed to a full council vote on June 2.

The application sought approval for a masterplanned urban village on the existing Benowa Gardens Shopping Centre site, combining new housing, retail, dining, health and lifestyle amenities within a walkable, integrated precinct.&nbsp;

The proposed redevelopment includes around 413 apartments integrated above a revitalised mixed-use centre featuring a full-line supermarket of 4,000 sqm, 6,000 sqm of specialty retail and dining space across around 30 retailers, a 7,000 sqm health and wellness precinct, and roughly 9,630 sqm of office and medical suites.&nbsp;

<img alt="$1b Benowa Gardens Urban Village moves to Full Council following Planning Committee support" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fb36ae47-80bc-45f0-9914-31b0c7b6007d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/PR26576%20Ashmore%20Road%20C4%201121%20FI.jpg?VersionId=6mRKk2uU4r67TmTt39DKGUlvFRbTVqWa" />

The broader masterplan also includes very significant traffic and transport improvements, wide pedestrian walkways, upgraded pedestrian and cycle connections, and enhanced public areas designed to create a more connected and walkable community environment.&nbsp;

Centre owner Patrick Lu said the milestone reflected months of detailed planning, technical assessment and ongoing communication with local residents, businesses, schools and stakeholders.

“We appreciate the time, consideration and care Council officers and the Planning Committee have given this proposal throughout the assessment process,” Lu said.

“We also sincerely thank the local community for engaging with us, sharing feedback and participating in the consultation process over many months.

<img alt="$1b Benowa Gardens Urban Village moves to Full Council following Planning Committee support" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="32fd1fc3-d0e6-485f-ac57-9916c9bcb818" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/PR26576%20Ashmore%20Road%20C5%201121%20FI_2.jpg?VersionId=fz8qQKDBLQ7MyFRc856Zccfbh9nFwLOe" />

“We understand projects of this scale bring questions and concerns, which is why we have worked hard to listen carefully, provide information transparently and continue refining elements of the proposal where possible.

“Our vision has always been to create a well-designed, community-focused urban village that responds to the changing needs of the Gold Coast, while delivering improved amenity, housing diversity, healthcare access and local lifestyle benefits.

“This proposal is about creating a genuine live-work-play environment where residents can access everyday services, schools, healthcare, dining, shopping and green space within walking distance, while also supporting local jobs and economic activity.”

<img alt="$1b Benowa Gardens Urban Village moves to Full Council following Planning Committee support" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="50dfbd04-590e-4fc6-983b-766880947867" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Dining%20Day%20Time%20-%20High%20Resolution.jpg?VersionId=BP7ZoKJ0DdL_8iRkkC8VVx99moICV6kg" />

Lu said the proposal had evolved significantly through consultation and technical review, particularly around traffic, pedestrian and student safety and neighbourhood connectivity.&nbsp;

Melissa Griffin, Director at Urbis, said the recommendation recognised the strategic importance of delivering more housing and services within established urban areas already supported by infrastructure.

“This proposal represents the type of thoughtful, integrated growth that planning frameworks across South-East Queensland are encouraging,” Ms Griffin said.

“The project seeks to place housing, retail, healthcare and employment opportunities together in a highly accessible location close to schools, transport and existing services.

“Importantly, the process has involved significant technical assessment and community engagement to ensure local issues and feedback were properly considered throughout the planning pathway.”

$1 billion Benowa Gardens Urban Village heads to council vote following Planning Committee support

Surfers Paradise is officially set for its first new residential development with a 45-storey skybridge connecting the two towers.

John Camilleri’s Celestino Developments has been given the green light by the Gold Coast City Council to develop its major beachfront precinct across its huge 4,000 sqm oceanfront site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/63-79-garfield-terrace-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">63–79 Garfield Terrace</a>, just five months after its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-exclusive-billionaire-winx-breeder-s-bold-two-tower-surfers-paradise-play-with-45th-storey-skybridge">submission in late 2025</a>.

The approved scheme will deliver two towers rising 55 and 48 storeys, connected by a skybridge positioned on level 45 that will house a range of resident-only wellness and entertainment spaces.

In its notice of approval, the Gold Coast City Council said the&nbsp;proposed overall built form has been designed to complement the scale, intensity and protect the adjacent amenity and surrounding streets through the use of varied setbacks, site cover and architectural elements.

<img alt="First look exclusive: Billionaire Winx breeder’s bold two-tower Surfers Paradise play with 45th-storey skybridge" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_75/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Screenshot%202025-12-30%20at%209.53.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=ADyPJ_TFbJvSU9wZFOiCBnlPtgF7VWqW" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/dbi">DBI</a>, the development will comprise 275 apartments across the two towers, including a mix of two-, three-, and four-bedroom residences, as well as several penthouses. The apartments will sit above a landscaped podium featuring more than 90 metres of beachfront pool frontage, private resident lawns, lounges, and wellness spaces.

DBI said the design draws heavily from the movement and form of the coastal environment, with curving balcony lines and sculpted façades intended to soften the scale of the towers while maximising ocean outlooks and passive shading outcomes.

“The project occupies a rare, uninterrupted oceanfront site and has been shaped by a design philosophy that merges architectural elegance with environmental responsiveness and a carefully curated lifestyle experience,” DBI said in planning documents submitted to the Gold Coast City Council.

The most distinctive element of the approved project is the skybridge linking the two towers at level 45. The elevated communal space is planned to include executive lounges, formal dining areas, wellness facilities, and panoramic ocean-facing outlooks.

“The skybridge enhances the identity of the development, promotes social interaction, and delivers a lifestyle experience not found elsewhere on the Gold Coast,” DBI said.

At podium level, residents will have access to a suite of resort-style amenities, including resident lounges, private dining rooms, a yoga lawn, gymnasium, plunge pools, and treatment spaces. The beachfront pool has been designed with separate lap, lounge, and children’s areas extending across the width of the site.

The project will also introduce new food and beverage offerings along the Enderley Avenue and Oceanway frontages, contributing additional activation to the beachfront precinct.

First look: Winx billionaire’s beachfront Surfers Paradise apartment development greenlit

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?

ANZ believes the Reserve Bank is in no rush to move again.

Following the release of the May Monetary Policy Board Minutes, ANZ has taken the view that the RBA is now firmly in a holding pattern, with the cumulative impact of previous rate hikes giving the Board scope to assess how the economy evolves from here.

That positioning, in ANZ’s view, makes a June rate hike unlikely.

The bank continues to expect the cash rate to remain unchanged at 4.35 per cent for an extended period, with the RBA adopting what is effectively a wait-and-see approach.

The Minutes point to a Board that sees financial conditions as already restrictive, but without a clear read on just how restrictive they are. That uncertainty has shifted the focus away from immediate policy action and toward monitoring both domestic conditions and global developments, particularly the conflict in the Middle East.

As ANZ interprets it, the Board is deliberately avoiding strong forward guidance.

Instead, it is allowing itself flexibility, acknowledging that monetary policy has limited ability to influence the near-term trajectory of inflation, while also recognising that economic growth is likely to remain below potential for some time.

Despite that pause in momentum, ANZ notes that the Board still carries a tightening bias.

The Minutes reveal that, in weighing up its decision, the Board seriously considered another 25 basis point increase. The key debate centred on the trade-off between inflation and activity, particularly in the context of global uncertainty.

Ultimately, most members leaned toward the inflation side of that equation.

Underlying inflation is still expected to remain above target for an extended period, regardless of how external risks evolve. That has led to a view within the Board that the risks to its inflation objective have increased, and that the current cash rate may not be sufficiently restrictive to fully contain those pressures.

That’s important.

While the decision, for now, is to hold, the underlying tone of the Minutes suggests the door to further tightening has not been closed.

ANZ also points to commentary from Assistant Governor (Economic) Sarah Hunter, who highlighted the risk that inflation could pass through the economy more quickly and broadly than in previous cycles. Both Hunter and a majority of the Board expressed concern that inflation expectations could become less anchored after such a prolonged period above target.

That combination, persistent inflation and the risk of expectations shifting, is what continues to underpin the RBA’s cautious stance.

However, where ANZ diverges from the RBA is on the outlook for activity.

The Board appears relatively comfortable with current spending patterns, effectively downplaying recent declines in business and consumer sentiment. It notes that sentiment has historically been only weakly correlated with actual spending, and that feedback from its liaison program has not yet pointed to a meaningful slowdown in consumption.

ANZ is less convinced.

The bank believes the link between household disposable income, sentiment and spending is more direct than the RBA is currently acknowledging. With inflation continuing to erode real incomes, ANZ expects household spending to soften more materially than the central bank is forecasting.

That divergence matters because it shifts the balance of risk.

If activity weakens more than expected, the trade-off between inflation and growth changes. In ANZ’s view, that would reduce the need for further tightening and reinforce the case for the RBA to remain on hold.

It also suggests that the current policy setting may already be doing more work than the Board fully appreciates.

The broader takeaway from ANZ’s interpretation is that the RBA is walking a narrow path.

On one side sits the risk of inflation remaining elevated for longer than expected. On the other is the growing pressure on households and the potential for a sharper slowdown in activity.

For now, the Board is choosing to wait.

But it is a pause that still carries an underlying tightening bias, rather than a clear pivot toward easing.

In practical terms, that leaves the cash rate anchored at 4.35 per cent for the foreseeable future, with the next move still uncertain.

For borrowers, it reinforces the reality that relief is not imminent.

And for the broader economy, it highlights the delicate balance the RBA is trying to strike, between bringing inflation back to target and avoiding an unnecessarily sharp slowdown in growth.

According to ANZ, it is a balance that is becoming increasingly difficult to maintain.

RBA to hold rates for "prolonged period" rather than hikes: ANZ

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The list remains quite steady from<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/hotspots/the-most-discounted-properties-in-australia-at-june-7/2011060750433" title="Last week's most discounted property list" target="_blank"> last week</a>, with a newer batch of regular properties repeatedly making the top 10 each week. It is now properties from Queensland and Western Australia that are continuing to dominate our list of slashed property prices. This is in line with our recent forecast that these states (Queensland and Western Australia) will suffer steeper falls than the others, comparatively speaking.
What is particularly noteworthy about this week's list is that we have finally been graced with the addition of a discounted property in Victoria! It has been a while since we have seen discounts from this state in our top 10, and number nine on the list, 2506/83 Queensbridge Street Southbank 3006, has been discounted by a whopping 30%. This property is apparently going to auction at a price range given of at least $500,000 less that the vendor's orginal asking price. Having said this, these types of auction advertisements can often be ambigious, as it is never known whether bidding is expected to start from the given price range or whether the vendor is hoping to acheive a sale within the given price range. 
 1
 <a style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; text-decoration: underline; color: #6888b1;" target="_blank" title="1350 Wynnum Road, Tingalpa" href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.realestate.com.au%2Fcgi-bin%2Frsearch%3Fa%3Do%26id%3D106966579">1350 Wynnum Road, Tingalpa, Queensland, 4173</a>
On the market since: November 6, 2010
Initial asking price: $700,000
Current asking price: $380,000
Reduction: 46%
Days on market: 210
 
<h2 style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 18px; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino, 'Palatino Linotype', serif; line-height: 21px; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">2</h2>
<a style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; text-decoration: underline; color: #6888b1;" target="_blank" title="1/21 Ocean Drive, Coogee" href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.realestate.com.au%2Fcgi-bin%2Frsearch%3Fa%3Do%26id%3D106550670">1/21 Ocean Drive, Coogee, New South Wales, 6166</a>
On the market since: May 23, 2010
Initial asking price: $2,700,000
Current asking price: $1,600,000
Reduction: 41%
Days on market: 378
 
<h2 style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 18px; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino, 'Palatino Linotype', serif; line-height: 21px; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">3</h2>
<a style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; text-decoration: underline; color: #6888b1;" target="_blank" title="232-234 High Central Road, Macleay Island" href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.domain.com.au%2FPublic%2FPropertyDetails.aspx%3Fadid%3D2007562500">232-234 High Central Road, Macleay Island, Queensland, 4184</a>
On the market since: January 11, 2009
Initial asking price: $279,000
Current asking price: $175,000
Reduction: 37%
Days on market: 875
 
<h2 style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 18px; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino, 'Palatino Linotype', serif; line-height: 21px; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">4</h2>
<a style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; text-decoration: underline; color: #6888b1;" target="_blank" title="25 Vicary Street, Triabunna" href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.domain.com.au%2FPublic%2FPropertyDetails.aspx%3Fadid%3D2008491614">25 Vicary Street, Triabunna, Tasmania, 7190</a>
On the market since: August 2, 2010
Initial asking price: $299,000
Current asking price: $189,000
Reduction: 37%
Days on market: 308
 
<h2 style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 18px; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino, 'Palatino Linotype', serif; line-height: 21px; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">5</h2>
<a style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; text-decoration: underline; color: #6888b1;" target="_blank" title="290 Viveash Road, Swan View" href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.domain.com.au%2FPublic%2FPropertyDetails.aspx%3Fadid%3D2007193295">290 Viveash Road, Swan View, Western Australia, 6056</a>
On the market since: June 5, 2008
Initial asking price: $2,290,000
Current asking price: $1,500,000
Reduction: 34%
Days on market: 1096
 
<h2 style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 18px; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino, 'Palatino Linotype', serif; line-height: 21px; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">6</h2>
<a style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; text-decoration: underline; color: #6888b1;" target="_blank" title="3 Boolari Road, Gosford West" href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.realestate.com.au%2Fcgi-bin%2Frsearch%3Fa%3Do%26id%3D105832903">3 Boolari Road, Gosford West, New South Wales, 2250</a>
On the market since: July 8, 2009
Initial asking price: $990,000
Current asking price: $650,000
Reduction: 34%
Days on market: 696
 
<h2 style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 18px; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino, 'Palatino Linotype', serif; line-height: 21px; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">7</h2>
<a style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; text-decoration: underline; color: #6888b1;" target="_blank" title="1/16 Dewar, Ledge Point" href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.realestate.com.au%2Fcgi-bin%2Frsearch%3Fa%3Do%26id%3D106138206">1/16 Dewar, Ledge Point, Western Australia, 6043</a>
On the market since: November 15, 2009
Initial asking price: $375,000
Current asking price: $250,000
Reduction: 33%
Days on market: 567
 
<h2 style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 18px; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino, 'Palatino Linotype', serif; line-height: 21px; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">8</h2>
<a href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.realestate.com.au%2Fcgi-bin%2Frsearch%3Fa%3Do%26id%3D106241765" title="65 Pier Haven, Lamb Island" target="_blank">65 Pier Haven, Lamb Island, Queensland, 4184</a>
On the market since: January 9, 2010
Initial asking price: $425,000
Current asking price: $290,000
Reduction: 32%
Days on market: 511
 
<h2 style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 18px; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino, 'Palatino Linotype', serif; line-height: 21px; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">9</h2>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-southbank-106952892" title="2506/83 Queensbridge Street" target="_blank">2506/ 83 Queensbridge Street, Southbank, Victoria, 3006</a>
On the market since: October 31, 2010
Initial asking price: $2.15 million
Current asking price: $1.5 million
Reduction: 30%
Days on market: 217
 
<h2 style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 18px; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino, 'Palatino Linotype', serif; line-height: 21px; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">10</h2>
<a href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.realestate.com.au%2Fcgi-bin%2Frsearch%3Fa%3Do%26id%3D107052447" title="56 Ellen Street, Kingston" target="_blank">56 Ellen Street, Kingston, Queensland, 4114</a>
On the market since: October 31, 2010
Initial asking price: $2.15 million
Current asking price: $1.5 million
Reduction: 30%
Days on market: 217
Louis Christopher is the managing director of SQM Research. More information on discounted properties can be found in the free SQM weekly newsletter or on the <a href="https://www.sqmresearch.com.au/news.php" style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; text-decoration: underline; color: #6888b1;">SQM Research website</a>.
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louischristopher-TWpYcZDLBK

The 10 most discounted properties in Australia at June 16

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Australia’s home loan delinquency rate now sits at an alarming high.
And the recent east coast natural disasters are nowhere near as much to blame as everyone’s been making out.
JPMorgan points the finger directly at home loans issued in 2009.
They were the home purchases made when interest rates fell to emergency lows to fight the global financial crisis.
They coincided with the first-home owners' grant being doubled and the $900 cash grant boosting consumer confidence levels.
The 2009 buyers were ripe for the borrowing, with Westpac and Commonwealth Bank then the keenest at lending into the robust first-home loan market.
JPMorgan says mortgages issued or refinanced in 2009 make up 20% of the current total arrears.
“We see clear potential for higher interest rates to drive arrears higher,” JP Morgan has ominously forecast.
“In particular, any further increase in interest rates would see the 2009 vintage loans exceed the affordability tests set at the time they were taken out.”
"First-home owners used the falling cash rate to increase the average amount borrowed by 25%,” the JP Morgan report's author, Scott Manning, says.
“First-home owners were not alone in expanding their gearing.”
Manning rightly reckons unemployment has traditionally been the key driver of mortgage delinquencies.
“But the gearing up of households over the last decade has seen them become a lot more vulnerable to increases in the mortgage rate.”
The Fitch report only measures the performance of Australia's so-called securitised loans rather than those funded by deposits from the big four banks, so it’s not therefore a true reflection of the entire home loans. Fitch’s analysis of 1 million mortgages over-represents those from the smaller banks and the non-bank lenders. As of March 2011, securitised mortgages represented 17% of all Australian mortgages by volume.
But it is concerning that Fitch concluded one in 400 borrowers had become delinquent since September 2010.
“As the Australian economy and unemployment are still solid, the increase in the mortgage rate and the increased cost of living remain the main variables affecting household affordability,” Fitch concludes.
In terms of mortgage performance, those regions historically labelled the “worst-performing” have been affected most by Christmas spending and increasing interest rates.
South-western Sydney and the Central Coast north of Sydney, the Gold Coast in Queensland and the south-west region in Western Australia are still experiencing delinquency rates far above the national average.
Fairfield-Liverpool continues to be the worst-performing region in Australia, with one mortgage out of 60 being in arrears and a 30+ day delinquency rate of 2.81%.
Regions in Queensland took four of the 10 worst-performing slots at end March 2011, up from just one back in September 2010, as the Gold Coast and Logan City experienced a considerable deterioration in delinquencies.
Overall performance in Western Australia has been stable, although 30+ delinquency rates were still high at 1.99% as of March 2011.
Looking on the bright side, Victoria has five of Australia’s 10 best-performing districts when it comes to mortgage delinquencies. They were Boroondara City, northern middle Melbourne, eastern middle Melbourne,  inner Melbourne and southern Melbourne.
Victoria’s overall delinquency rate stood at 1.34%, considerably lower than New South Wales (1.93%) and Queensland (2%).
Melbourne performed better than the rest of Victoria, with a delinquency ratio of 1.29%.
Despite having five of the nation's 10 worst-performing regions, Sydney also had two of the best. NSW”s lower northern Sydney district sits as the best-performing region in Australia, with just five mortgages out of 1,000 delinquent at the end of March 2011. Sydney’s eastern suburbs sat in fourth place, according to the Fitch Ratings survey, with just 0.65% of mortgage holders behind on payments.
Fitch analysed 80,000 mortgages in South Australia, with overall delinquencies below the national average at 1.54%, up only slightly from September 2010 (1.3%).
Tasmania had a 1.37% arrears rate.
The Northern Territory was the best-performing district in the country, with a delinquency ratio of 1.04% as arrears in the Australian Capital Territory increased to 1.09%.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Flood of money, not the skies, to blame for home mortgage delinquency

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The May sales figures of Australasian real-estate group Ray White remained steady at $2.1 billion, mirroring the $2.1 billion total in April.
But Ray White’s monthly figures reflect a revival in upmarket sales activity. Its top offices during May were Surfers Paradise in Queensland, Double Bay and Neutral Bay in NSW, and from Victoria, Glen Waverley and Epping.
Group chairman Brian White says given prevailing negative headlines, some buyers and sellers might assume that the sales market was chaotic.
“Yes, prices have eased in many locations. Yes, there are fewer sales, but nowhere near the horrific changes some are proclaiming,” White says. In April White noted the continued impact of recent natural disasters, Brisbane’s floods, Christchurch’s earthquake and the north Queensland cyclones.
White noted the natural disasters had triggered the sales figures to drop in April to $2.1 billion, some 15% less than April in 2010.
Sales in all three localities fell by more than 30% on the previous year.
“The consistency of the drop was remarkable,” White says.
“Take away the impact of these particular markets and the overall drop, year on year, comes down to just 10% – with approximately half of the drop to each of reduced values and reduced transaction activity.”
But it was the first April that matched its preceding March total.
The most positive signs of improvement across the group in April were from New Zealand.
“How quickly market sentiment can change when there is an interest rate drop, with a 0.25% interest rate drop at the beginning of the month quickly impacting particularly in Auckland,” White says.
“Faith in the future strength of both countries remains rock solid, leading to continued buyer enquiry. Buyers want good value, and if they can get it, they will commit.
“Market commentators often are unable to sense this level of buyer activity, but we’re seeing it every weekend at our open homes,” he says.
Queensland prices now reflect the best value in the nation, White says.
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Ray White sales hold steady

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Landlords providing student accommodation at the cheaper end of town are unlikely to see an increase in rents, due to a drop in the number of international students undertaking vocational training in Australia.
Figures put out by Australian Education International for the year to March 2011 reveal an overall 8.9% decline in enrolments by full-fee international students on student visas.
Digging deeper, the AEI figures show that demand for vocational education and training visas fell by 21% over the year to March 2011, while higher education visas grew by 3.6% during the same period.
Overseas students enrolling in TAFE courses generally apply for VET visas, while those attending university apply for HE visas.
As a consequence, demand for the cheap housing usually sought by overseas TAFE students has fallen, but the more affluent student market remains buoyant.
This is reflected in the lopsided situation facing student accommodation providers such as Student Housing Australia, which has a portfolio of 2,200 apartments in Melbourne.
The organisation says demand for its apartments near TAFE colleges has dropped, but its apartments servicing RMIT, the University of Melbourne and Monash University are full, with students on waiting lists.
Mark McDonald, director of SHA, places the blame for this not on the high Australian dollar – as many have claimed – but on changes made to permanent residency rules introduced in January 2009.
“The high dollar is not a factor. When the Australian dollar went from 55 cents to 80 cents and then 90 cents, it had no effect on demand,” he says.
What has had the most damaging impact, according to McDonald, are changes made to immigration rules limiting the number of courses that give students extra points towards permanent residency applications.
Obtaining a cooking or hairdressing qualification was once seen as an easy route to becoming an Australian resident, but in January 2009, the Department of Immigration stopped accepting permanent residency applications from applicants who had completed these courses.
And it appears the government has toughened up its policies of late.
In January, TAFE Directors Australia chairman Bruce Mackenzie lamented to The Australian that an easing up of assessments for students applying for higher education courses while maintaining tougher risk assessment for vocational applicants was discouraging overseas vocational students.
The flow-on diminished demand for cheaper housing has caused some landlords to spruce up their properties to appeal to the higher end (and higher education end) of the market.
Ben Bassingthwaite, property manager at Century 21 Westside in Brisbane, who says rents have stalled in lower price brackets, notes an improvement in the quality of student accommodation in Fortitude Valley to appeal to the more affluent end of the market.
“Australian students tend to rent more expensive properties compared to Asian students,” he says. “Overseas students are looking for cheaper accommodation. They are more accepting of smaller rooms and bathrooms.”
McDonald believes the government has shot itself in the foot by changing the immigration rules.
“Because New Zealand has not changed its permanent residency policy, students are now going there to do their vocational training, becoming New Zealand residents and then coming to Australia,” he says.
SHA rents out private studios for between $200 and $350 a week, and students sign year-long leases.
Bassingthwaite says weekly rents in Fortitude Valley range between $100 and $140 a week.
“Ninety dollars a week will get you a fairly rundown room,” he says.
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lschlesinger-FZcF9M3vE6

Immigration changes lead to drop in demand for lower-end student housing

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With the autumn property season over and the end of the headlines about record prices and huge crowds, the winter property season brings a new set of challenges for buyers and sellers. Yes, it’s a more subdued time, but winter can still throw up some surprises – and some opportunities. Even in winter people still need to sell their homes. And plenty of people are still out there looking for homes to live in.
In fact, on good homes the interest can actually intensify due to lack of supply, and prices can go up on certain offerings. We’ve noticed in the past couple of chilly weeks, our demand indicator <a href="https://marketnews.com.au/tag/bidderman/" title="Posts tagged with bidderman">Bidderman</a> has risen to an average of 1.5 bidders per auction – up from just over one bidder per auction in early May.
So the buyers are still out there, but they may be a different crowd than the ones you’ve been bidding against during the spring and autumn property seasons.
You won’t see much of the wow buyers, for instance, the ones who like the glitz and glam and are “sort of looking” but not that hard. The footy is on, it’s too cold. They can’t be bothered. So you won’t have to worry about competing against this lot.
The desperate buyers are still there, though, the ones who really need a home nowbecausethe wife is threatening divorce, the kids are whingeing, and they’re sick of trawling through the internet listings every week.
The measured buyers never went away. These are the ones who don’t care whether it’s summer or winter, a buyers’ or a sellers’ market, freezing cold, roasting hot. They are out there even now looking for a quality family home that has good land content and represents good value close to schools for their kids. Their finances are in place, and they see the depths of winter as good a time as any if the right home presents itself.
Measured buyers are the ones who accept that it might be a little tougher to sell their existing homes, and realise they might need to discount their asking price a little for safety – but also that they’ll probably be able to buy something bigger and better at a better price. These are the ones who are only buying if the three Ps line up: property, position and of course, price.
Then there are the opportune buyers or investors. A bit of frost on the local oval isn’t going to stop them looking.  They’ve got their eyes on the pass-ins on a Monday. In fact, they’ve probably been keeping records of pass-ins for the last few months, and eventually a phone call will unearth a good home that didn’t sell for one reason: it was overpriced. And after one or two price drops it could well be ripe for a cheeky offer.
So which one are you and how can you best play this market? Winter brings out the wet trackers in horse racing – the show ponies have a spell, and the old reliables you have seen for many years becomes a lot more visible. So it is in real estate. You will see a number of auctioneers take extended breaks, returning on the occasional weekend when a group of auction homes have been bunched together. In the meantime the quality sales agent are playing a far greater role within the company.
But it’s also worth realising that while a few auctions are still around, over the next few months more homes will be sold over the phone or in a coffee shop than on the pavement. When you’re buying via private sale, expression of interest or off market, that requires different skills. It’s not just about turning up at an auction, watching to see what others do and then putting your hand up. For all the issues connected with auctions, they are still far more transparent than the most common types of deals you will see (or rather, won’t see) between now and the footy finals.
So this winter, like any market, has opportunities for the buyer. Especially for the measured and opportune buyer. Maybe not so much for the wow buyer. And there are some traps for the inexperienced or desperate buyer – but nothing a cool head can’t avoid.
Mal James is principal of <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/james.net.au">james.net.au</a>, which advocates on behalf of buyers of property over $1 million. Mal writes weekly auction reports, advice and in-depth market analysis on James' website.
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maljames-vHwm28JUAa

Don't cool your heels in winter

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The rich are getting richer according to the recently released BRW Rich 200 list. The total wealth held by this year’s Rich List members was up 23% on last year, in part helped by our resources boom.
And just in case you haven’t notices, the divide between the rich and the poor has never been so evident according to the BRW. The average income for Australian families is $80,000 with just 15% of us earning $150,000 or more each year, which seems to be Treasurer Wayne Swan’s definition of wealthy.
In contrast it would take the lower-ranking members on the Rich List less than 5 days to earn $150,000, which seems to be the new cut off between the rich and the average Australian.
So, what can we learn from Australia's wealthy individuals?
Firstly property remains the single biggest source of wealth with 49 real-estate entrepreneurs in the top 200 list, and many of those who didn't make their fortunes in property have stored their wealth by investing in property.
This should come as no surprise – looking back over the years, no matter how the Australian economy changes, the Rich 200 has always been dominated by the property entrepreneurs.
Remember, there's nothing wrong with seeing what other successful people do and applying those principles to your own life. If so many extraordinarily wealthy people have used real estate profitably, it stands to reason that there's money to be made in this sector.
The other lessons I learned by reading the various entrepreneurs' stories are:
Anyone can become rich in Australia. While 17% inherited some of their fortune, most on the Rich List were self-made successes, some coming from working-class backgrounds. Attending a private school and an elite education is clearly not a prerequisite to joining Australia’s wealthy. While some forged important networks at school, many went to public schools and others didn’t even finish high school. In fact, less than half have tertiary qualifications.
 
Invest counter-cyclically. While the average Australian was gripped with fear of the fallout from the Global Financial Crisis, many successful investors took advantage of the opportunity to buy up big over the last few years. Remember Warren Buffet's famous quote: "Be fearful when others are greedy, and be greedy when others are fearful."
Make your millions and then reinvest it – don't spend it. This is really just using the power of compounding to grow your asset base before you start spending up big.
Take risks early on, but not once you are established. While many entrepreneurs took big risks to get their enterprises going, successful investors then preserved their wealth by cautiously investing rather than taking further risks.
Have one good idea and repeat it. One core trait that successful entrepreneurs share is the ability to take a good idea and repeat it over and over again. Look through the list and you’ll see so many entrepreneurs stick to the same concept for years and just expand in different locations.
Pick the trends. This is different to picking fads, which are transient.
Go for growth. Sure, cash flow is important but to become really rich you need a large asset base. While the average Australian tries to increase their cash flow, the wealthy are obsessed with building their asset base. Much the same as those on the BRW Rich 200 list who concentrate on building their balance sheets even more than they do on their profit and loss accounts.
Surround yourself with a good team. As I've often said, if you are the smartest person in your team, you are in trouble.
Take action. All the people who made it onto this year's BRW Rich 200 list started with a dream and then took action.
You’re never too young and you’re never too old. The youngest member of the BRW Rich 200 is aged 35 and has an estimated wealth of $1.01 billion, which is even more than the oldest member who at the age of 92 has accumulated $289 million.
Michael Yardney is the director of Metropole Property Investment Strategists, a best-selling author and one of Australia's leading experts in wealth creation through property. For more information about Michael visit <a style="color: #333333; font-weight: bold; font-size: 13.5px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.metropole.com.au/">www.metropole.com.au</a> and <a style="color: #333333; font-weight: bold; font-size: 13.5px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.propertyupdate.com.au/">www.PropertyUpdate.com.au</a>.
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myardney-DFoGhGbSJX

The rich are getting richer, and so can you

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As we look to what's ahead for 2012, Property Observer is republishing some of our most noteworthy stories of 2011.
 
Going to a debate about property bubbles is a bit like going to a debate about the existence of God. You know broadly what the arguments will be, but you want to know who is speaking and whether they have any new observations.
 And so it was that the Money Institute in Sydney hosted “The Property Bubble Debate: is it doom and gloom or safe as houses?”
 In the Christopher Hitchens role (there is no God) we had, inevitably, Professor Steven Keen, this country’s most high-profile property market iconoclast.
 As the joke goes, the good professor has managed to pick six of the last three downturns.
 Opposing him, in the Archbishop of Canterbury corner, there was a property developer called Dr Tony Hayek from Blue Wealth Property.
 In between, there were a handful of participants, the most informative of whom was Dr Shane Oliver, AMP’s chief economist.
 One problem with debating the merits of property is that it is such an emotive topic for Australians.
 With one of the highest rates of home ownership in the world, having your own home – at almost any price – is a cultural imperative against which it is almost impossible to rationally argue. It is also proof that economics is not always a rational science.
Hayek, the first speaker, said he wasn’t going to show any graphs or statistics, because that was the job of the other panellists.
However, he did show us photos of houses in Concord and Harris Park, NSW, that he said had gone up in value in the past few years.
 Fortunately, Keen had a slightly broader view. The University of Western Sydney academic said that conventional wisdom had it that “population pressures drive house prices, but that’s wrong. It is money pressure which drives house prices.”
 Australian banks have financed a bigger bubble here than in the US, he said.
“It’s the biggest debt-financed asset bubble in human history, and I’m afraid you ignore it to your peril.”
Oliver began his talk by saying that any negative remarks about the property markets didn’t apply to the northern beaches suburb of Avalon, NSW, because that was where he owned a house. In general, house prices were this country’s “Achilles Heel,” he observed. 
In 1987 the housing market soared following the sharemarket crash, and the Australian market recorded much bigger gains than the UK and the US. Although the Australian market is overvalued, the indications of a bubble were missing, he said.
Interestingly, buyer sentiment about property as an asset class has changed. In the mid-1990s approximately 50% of Australians surveyed on this topic thought that real estate was a better place for their savings than other asset classes, Oliver said. Now, only 15% are property true believers, and the rest think they would be better off putting money into bank deposits and paying off debts.
Housing affordability is a huge issue in this country, the economist said. To buy an average-priced house in Australia takes six times the annual disposable income, whereas in the US is just three times that figure.
For instance, the average house price is Sydney is $634,000 while in Los Anegles, which has similar household incomes, it is $346,000. The Perth average house costs $480,000 and Austin Texas, $189,000. Housing rental yields here were about 3% and commercial property about 8%, the economist said.
Oliver then analysed the issue of why Australian property was so much more expensive than its equivalent in the US.
The first reason was that Australians spend less on healthcare than Americans, which means that they have more money in their pockets to spend on housing. The other factors are a greater supply of credit here and an under-supply of housing.
Currently, there is a shortfall of 200,000 to 230,000 dwellings; we should be building 180,000 to 200,000 dwellings every year and we are building less than that, he said.
In conclusion, the economist said that the main risks for the property market were a large number of land releases by government, the collapse of the Chinese economy and a rise in interest rates. Housing affordability was “terrible” and auction clearance rates were trending low, he said.
“My summary would be that prices are overvalued. It’s not a bubble, but we are very vulnerable if anything goes wrong.”
After the presentation, on the way back to the office, I went into a shop to look at a $330 pair of shoes I had just purchased over the internet for $70, plus postage. As I can now buy everything I want with an iMac and a credit card, I wondered: what is the future of retailing property? Buy FedEx.
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cknowlton-QnEa6ntUYP

Property high priests square off over housing bubble

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The Northern Territory is the only state or territory to record an increase in first home buyers in the March quarter, bucking a nationwide trend.
ACT had the biggest drop in this sector of the market, and South Australia first-home buyer numbers fell to a 20-year low.
In the Northern Territory the number of new loans to first-home buyers increased during the quarter, up 8.9% to 159 loans. These borrowers make up 23.5% of the market, according to the Real Estate Institute of Australia Deposit Power Housing Affordability Report.
At the other end of the scale, ACT recorded the largest decrease in the number of new loans to first-home buyers, down 25.5% to 324. First-home buyers still comprise 25.9% of the market in Australian Capital Territory.
State-by-state analysis
In New South Wales, the number of loans to first-home buyers continues to be higher than all other states and territories, despite a decrease of 14.6% to 6,097 from the previous quarter. Over the year, the number of loans to first-home buyers decreased 13%.
In Victoria, the total number of loans issued to first-home buyers decreased 21.1%, down from 7,005 in the previous quarter to 5,526, the second-largest decrease of any state or territory during the quarter.
In Queensland, first-home buyer numbers dropped 16.1% to 3,636 during the March quarter. Compared with the same quarter of 2010, housing loans allocated to first-home buyers decreased 17.6%
In South Australia the number of loans to first-home buyers declined 14.8% to 1,269, the lowest quarterly level since September 1991. Compared with the same quarter of 2010, housing loans to first-home buyers decreased 22.6% in SA.
In Western Australia the number of housing loans to first-home buyers declined 10.2% to 2,920. Over the twelve months to March 2011 the number of loans to first home buyers declined 18.3%.
The number of new loans to first-home buyers decreased by 8.3% in Tasmania, bringing the total number of new loans from 374 in the December 2010 quarter to 343 in the March 2011 quarter. Over the 12 months to March, the number of new loans to first-home buyers decreased 23.1%. 
 
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
 
Nationwide, the number of first-home buyers participating in the mortgage market plummeted to the lowest level in 17, years according to the latest Real Estate Institute of Australia Deposit Power Housing Affordability Report.
 First-home buyers comprised just 15.4% of the “dwelling finance” market in the March 2011 quarter, compared with 15.6% in the December 2010 quarter, the latest report says. This is well below the long-term average of 20%.
The number of new finance commitments to first-home buyers fell to 16.1% for the quarter to 20,274, and the number of loans to first home buyers declined over the year, down 20.6%.
Affordability
ACT remains the most affordable state or territory, according to the report, with the proportion of income required to meet loan repayments increasing to 18.6%, 15.6 percentage points below the national average of 34.2%. NSW remains the least affordable, with the proportion of income required to meet loan repayments decreasing to 37.2%.Victoria is the second least affordable state (27.8%).
Affordability in Queensland improved during the quarter, with the proportion of income required to meet loan repayments decreased 0.5% to 32.9%.
During the March 2011 quarter, the total number of new finance commitments (excluding refinancing) decreased 16.5% to 90,157 – the lowest quarterly level in 12 years. All states and territories recorded declines in the total number of new finance commitments, both over the quarter and the year.
The latest finding about first-home buyer reluctance comes despite a report by Canstar Cannex saying conditions are easing for this sector of the market.
The financial data provider expects first-home buyers to be the likely beneficiaries of a flat housing market combined with an easing of deposit requirements by a significant number of lenders.
“In the last 12 months we’ve seen at least 25 lenders ease their deposit requirements and increase their LVRs (loan-to-valuation ratios) to assist borrowers getting into the market for the first time,” Canstar Cannex financial analyst Mitchell Watson says.
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First-home buyer numbers down nationwide, except in NT

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Since the publication of <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/hotspots/the-10-most-discounted-properties-in-australia-at-june-1/2011060250371" target="_blank" title="Last week's most discounted properties data">last week's most discounted property figures</a>, the vendors of the most discounted property in Australia seem to have lowered their asking price a further $20,000, down to $380,000. This is a tad more reasonable then the property's original asking price of $700,000!
There have been a variety of opinions surrounding not only this particular property but others like it that have been grossly overvalued and/or overpriced. Much of the blame has been pinned on agents for spruiking inflated valuations and making unattainable promises to vendors.
What we have to remember as potential investors is that we can't always blame the agents in these particular cases. Often it is the vendor who has a misguided, delusional idea of what the property is worth, and in the end it is the vendor that has the final say when it comes to pricing.
 1
 <a href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.realestate.com.au%2Fcgi-bin%2Frsearch%3Fa%3Do%26id%3D106966579" target="_blank" title="1350 Wynnum Road, Tingalpa" style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; text-decoration: underline; color: #6888b1;">1350 Wynnum Road, Tingalpa, 4173</a>
On the market since: November 6, 2010
Initial asking price: $700,000
Current asking price: $380,000
Reduction: 46%
Days on market: 203
<h2 style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 18px; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino, 'Palatino Linotype', serif; line-height: 21px; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;"> </h2>
<h2 style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 18px; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino, 'Palatino Linotype', serif; line-height: 21px; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">2</h2>
<a href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.realestate.com.au%2Fcgi-bin%2Frsearch%3Fa%3Do%26id%3D106550670" target="_blank" title="1/21 Ocean Drive, Coogee" style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; text-decoration: underline; color: #6888b1;">1/21 Ocean Drive, Coogee, 6166</a>
On the market since: May 23, 2010
Initial asking price: $2,700,000
Current asking price: $1,600,000
Reduction: 41%
Days on market: 371
 
<h2 style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 18px; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino, 'Palatino Linotype', serif; line-height: 21px; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">3</h2>
<a href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.realestate.com.au%2Fcgi-bin%2Frsearch%3Fa%3Do%26id%3D106766036" target="_blank" title="16/153 Kensington Street, East Perth" style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; text-decoration: underline; color: #6888b1;">16/153 Kensington Street, East Perth, 6004</a>
On the market since: August 21, 2010
Initial asking price: $845,000
Current asking price: $529,000
Reduction: 37%
Days on market: 280
 
4
<a href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.domain.com.au%2FPublic%2FPropertyDetails.aspx%3Fadid%3D2007562500" target="_blank" title="232-234 High Central Road, Macleay Island" style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; text-decoration: underline; color: #6888b1;">232-234 High Central Road, Macleay Island, 4184</a>
On the market since: January 11, 2009
Initial asking price: $279,000
Current asking price: $175,000
Reduction: 37%
Days on market: 868
 
<h2 style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 18px; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino, 'Palatino Linotype', serif; line-height: 21px; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">5</h2>
<a href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.domain.com.au%2FPublic%2FPropertyDetails.aspx%3Fadid%3D2008491614" target="_blank" title="25 Vicary Street, Triabunna" style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; text-decoration: underline; color: #6888b1;">25 Vicary Street, Triabunna, 7190</a>
On the market since: August 2, 2010
Initial asking price: $299,000
Current asking price: $189,000
Reduction: 37%
Days on market: 301
 
<h2 style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 18px; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino, 'Palatino Linotype', serif; line-height: 21px; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">6</h2>
<a href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.domain.com.au%2FPublic%2FPropertyDetails.aspx%3Fadid%3D2007193295" target="_blank" title="290 Viveash Road, Swan View" style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; text-decoration: underline; color: #6888b1;">290 Viveash Road, Swan View, 6056</a>
On the market since: June 5, 2008
Initial asking price: $2,290,000
Current asking price: $1,500,000
Reduction: 34%
Days on market: 1089
 
<h2 style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 18px; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino, 'Palatino Linotype', serif; line-height: 21px; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">7</h2>
<a href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.realestate.com.au%2Fcgi-bin%2Frsearch%3Fa%3Do%26id%3D105832903" target="_blank" title="3 Boolari Road, Gosford West" style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; text-decoration: underline; color: #6888b1;">3 Boolari Road, Gosford West, 2250</a>
On the market since: July 8, 2009
Initial asking price: $990,000
Current asking price: $650,000
Reduction: 34%
Days on market: 689
 
<h2 style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 18px; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino, 'Palatino Linotype', serif; line-height: 21px; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">8</h2>
<a href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.realestate.com.au%2Fcgi-bin%2Frsearch%3Fa%3Do%26id%3D106138206" target="_blank" title="1/16 Dewar, Ledge Point" style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; text-decoration: underline; color: #6888b1;">1/16 Dewar, Ledge Point, 6043</a>
On the market since: November 15, 2009
Initial asking price: $375,000
Current asking price: $250,000
Reduction: 33%
Days on market: 559
 
<h2 style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 18px; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino, 'Palatino Linotype', serif; line-height: 21px; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">9</h2>
<a href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.realestate.com.au%2Fcgi-bin%2Frsearch%3Fa%3Do%26id%3D107052447" target="_blank" title="56 Ellen Street">56 Ellen Street, Kingston, 4114</a>
On the market since: December 11, 2010
Initial asking price: $285,000
Current asking price: $200,000
Reduction: 30%
Days on market: 168
 
<h2 style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 18px; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino, 'Palatino Linotype', serif; line-height: 21px; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">10</h2>
<a href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.domain.com.au%2FPublic%2FPropertyDetails.aspx%3Fadid%3D2008305411" target="_blank" title="5/24 Georgina Street, Woody Point">5/24 Georgina Street, Woody Point, 4019</a>
On the market since: April 11, 2010
Initial asking price: $310,000
Current asking price: $220,000
Reduction: 29%
Days on market: 413
 
Louis Christopher is the managing director of SQM Research. More information on discounted properties can be found in the free SQM weekly newsletter or on the <a href="https://www.sqmresearch.com.au/news.php" style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; text-decoration: underline; color: #6888b1;">SQM Research website</a>.
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The most discounted properties in Australia at June 7

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I have been writing about property for more than 25 years, and I've learnt that getting passionate about property is easy. Getting it right is trickier. I intend for Property Observer to be property central, providing the essential news and analysis on the ins and outs of property. We will cover the capital cities, up and down the coast, and inland to the regional towns and the bush.
We will offer plenty of authoritative coverage about the homes we live in and the investments that top up our incomes.
Property Observer will showcase the best houses and apartments and all the big-name buyers and sellers. We will also keep a watchful eye on new developments, and the plush over-55 developments that seek out the growing band of empty nesters.
Property Observer will capture the changing seasons – we will write about snow homes, vineyards, fishing lodges, marinas and even the occasional beach bathing box. We aim to be of interest to the owner-occupier and the investor, given that population and investment funds are more fluid than ever.
I intend for commercial investment property to be a key component, especially the opportunities on high street –  retail neighbourhood shops, small strata offices, pubs and industrial strata. All are suitable for the self-managed super fund investor.
The website will offer wisdom on winning ways with property commentary from key economic and industry practitioners. We won’t overlook the property fundamentals, conveyancing clues, legal rulings and tax advice.
We want input from readers on market prices in their local patches, facilitating shared knowledge through dialogue, so <a href="mailto:news@propertyobserver.com.au">let us know</a> about your stories, insights and properties.
It's not just about bricks and mortar, as Property Observer will personalise property with interviews of the movers and shakers.
We want our readers to get wisdom, not clichés. And that way we’ll all be the wealthier.
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